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Today in History: December 26, Jack Johnson wins world heavyweight championship
Today is Friday, Dec. 26, the 360th day of 2025. There are five days left in the year.
Today in history:On Dec. 26, 1908, Jack Johnson became the first Black boxer to win the world heavyweight championship as he defeated Canadian Tommy Burns in Sydney, Australia.
Also on this date:In 1941, during World War II, Winston Churchill became the first British prime minister to address a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress, just two weeks after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that plunged the U.S. into the war.
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In 1966, Kwanzaa was first celebrated, a seven-day holiday to help African Americans reconnect with their African heritage.
In 1990, Nancy Cruzan, a young woman in an irreversible vegetative state whose case led to a U.S. Supreme Court decision on the right to die, died at a Missouri hospital.
In 1991, the USSR was formally dissolved through a declaration by the Supreme Soviet.
In 2004, a 9.1-magnitude earthquake beneath the Indian Ocean off the Indonesian island of Sumatra triggered a tsunami with waves up to 100 feet high that killed about 230,000 people across a dozen countries as far as East Africa. The worst-affected countries were Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India and Thailand.
In 2006, former President Gerald R. Ford died in Rancho Mirage, California, at age 93.
In 2021, South African Nobel Peace Prize winner Desmond Tutu died at 90; the retired archbishop had been an uncompromising foe of apartheid and a modern-day activist for racial justice and LGBTQ rights.
Today’s Birthdays:- “America’s Most Wanted” host John Walsh is 80.
- Baseball Hall of Fame catcher Carlton Fisk is 78.
- Baseball Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith is 71.
- Humorist David Sedaris is 69.
- Rock musician Lars Ulrich (Metallica) is 62.
- Actor-musician Jared Leto is 54.
- Rock singer Chris Daughtry is 46.
- Actor Beth Behrs is 40.
- Actor Kit Harington is 39.
The best of Palm Beach County high school sports: Fall 2025 All-County honorees
Here are the fall 2025 All-County honorees, covering top high school athletes from Palm Beach County in football, swimming, girls volleyball, cross country, golf and bowling. The section will be published in the newspaper on Sunday.
FOOTBALLPalm Beach 7A-5A football offensive player of the year: Javian Mallory, West Boca Raton senior
Palm Beach 7A-5A football defensive player of the year: Jamar Thompson, West Boca Raton junior
Palm Beach 7A-5A football offense first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Palm Beach 7A-5A football defense first team and second team
Palm Beach 4A-1A football offensive player of the year: Jyron Hughley, Cardinal Newman senior
Palm Beach 4A-1A football offense first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Palm Beach 4A-1A football defense first team and second team
GIRLS VOLLEYBALLPalm Beach 7A-5A girls volleyball player of the year: Macy McAmis, Jupiter senior
Palm Beach 7A-5A girls volleyball first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Palm Beach 4A-1A girls volleyball first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
SWIMMING AND DIVINGPalm Beach boys swimmer of the year: Andreas Da Silva, Wellington senior
Palm Beach boys swimming first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Palm Beach girls swimmer of the year: Feagin Kaminski, Benjamin sophomore
Palm Beach girls swimming first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
CROSS COUNTRYPalm Beach boys cross country runner of the year: Preston Sangely, Spanish River senior
Palm Beach boys cross country first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Palm Beach girls cross country runner of the year: Katelyn O’Brien, Boca Raton senior
Palm Beach girls cross country first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
GOLFPalm Beach boys golfer of the year: Hampton Beebe, Dwyer senior
Palm Beach boys golf first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Palm Beach girls bowler of the year: Carly Perrin, Somerset Academy Canyons senior
Palm Beach girls golf first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
BOWLINGPalm Beach boys bowling first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Palm Beach girls bowler of the year: Carly Perrin, Somerset Academy Canyons senior
Palm Beach girls bowling first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
The best of Broward County high school sports: Fall 2025 All-County honorees
Here are the fall 2025 All-County honorees, covering top high school athletes from Broward County in football, swimming, girls volleyball, cross country, golf and bowling. The section will be published in the newspaper on Sunday.
FOOTBALLBroward 7A-5A football offensive player of the year: Mason Mallory, St. Thomas Aquinas senior
Broward 7A-5A football defensive player of the year: Jermiyah Douglas, St. Thomas Aquinas senior
Broward 7A-5A football offense first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Broward 7A-5A football defense first team and second team
Broward 4A-1A football offensive player of the year: Derrek Cooper, Chaminade-Madonna senior
Broward 4A-1A football offense first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Broward 4A-1A football defense first team and second team
GIRLS VOLLEYBALLBroward 7A-5A girls volleyball first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Broward 4A-1A girls volleyball player of the year: Dasia Johnson, North Broward Prep senior
Broward 4A-1A girls volleyball first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
SWIMMING AND DIVINGBroward boys swimmer of the year: Juan Vallmitjana, University School junior
Broward boys swimming first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Broward girls diver of the year: Juliet Radich, Cardinal Gibbons senior
Broward girls swimming first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
CROSS COUNTRYBroward boys cross country first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Broward girls cross country runner of the year: Abigail Richards, Dillard senior
Broward girls cross country first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
GOLFBroward boys golfer of the year: Sohan Patel, American Heritage junior
Broward boys swimming first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Broward girls golfer of the year: Lilly Riegger, American Heritage senior
Broward girls golf first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
BOWLINGBroward boys bowler of the year: Ryder Willman, McArthur junior
Broward boys bowling first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Broward girls bowler of the year: Sofia Montefusco, South Plantation senior
Broward girls bowling first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
Broward 7A-5A football offensive player of the year: Mason Mallory, St. Thomas Aquinas senior
When Mason Mallory left the 2024 6A state champion West Boca Raton program and transferred to St. Thomas Aquinas, there was no guarantee he would wind up being the starter.
After all, senior quarterback Brady Palmer, a Temple commit, transferred in and was the penciled-in starter in the fall, with Mallory listed No. 3 on the depth chart.
“When I first met Coach Roger Harriott, and looked him in his eyes, I told him I was going to get him another one,” said Mallory, who did just that as he became the starter and helped the Raiders win a state record seventh straight state championship, and 17th overall.
“I just wanted to be a part of a culture where the coaches prepare you for the next level,” Mallory said. “I needed that to become the best player possible. “I’m forever thankful for Brady and everything he’s done for me. We kind of work together as one quarterback, and the standard is playing to glorify Christ, and that’s all we do.”
In the 29-0 5A state championship win, Mallory was 21 for 32 for 265 yards, and also did it with his legs rushing for 106 yards and a TD as the Raiders (14-1) finished the year on a 14-game winning streak, after it dropped the season opener to then MaxPreps No. 1 Mater Dei (Calif.), 26-23. Before the final, Mallory accounted for four TDs in each of the three regional games, his first such streak.
“Definitely, it was one of the greatest teams I’ve ever been a part of,” Mallory said. He finished the season throwing for 2,322 yards and 23 TDs, and added 760 yards and nine scores on the ground. A 68-yard TD run in the regular-season finale against Chaminade-Madonna was the longest of his career. He also had a 67-yard run in the state final. “I have a group of people here, players and coaches, who really believed in me.
“It was a tiny bit of a culture shock at first,” Mallory said of the transition of going from West Boca to St. Thomas Aquinas, and leaving his cousin Javian Mallory, a UM commit, behind. “At St. Thomas, they do everything like basically college, but definitely with the help of my teammates helped me become a better football player, and a better man. They are big on faith, and I was glad to be a part of that. Winning a seventh straight title for the school was the goal from when I first stepped on the campus.”
Mallory will now look to help the boys’ basketball team win a second straight championship. Mallory is a point guard.
“Mason has proven to be a true competitor with exceptional leadership skills,” said St. Thomas Aquinas coach Roger Harriott. “His ability to remain poised through adverse situations has enabled him to lead us to victory through challenging moments. He’s a phenomenal player and an even better person.”
Mason Mallory, from St. Thomas Aquinas High School, football player of the year, photographed on Tuesday, December 9, 2025.(Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Broward 7A-5A football defensive player of the year: Jermiyah Douglas, St. Thomas Aquinas senior
If you were ever looking for the definition of a Swiss Army Knife in high school football, look no further than St. Thomas Aquinas cornerback and athlete Jermiyah Douglas.
Douglas, a two-year team captain, played a vital role in the Raiders securing their state record seventh straight Class 5A state championship, and 17th overall, with a 29-0 victory over Lakeland at Pitbull Stadium on the campus of FIU. He had a 26-yard punt return to set up a score.
The Western Carolina University commit had four interceptions, a fumble recovery, 11 passes broken up, 38 solo tackles, a sack and three other tackles for loss. He said he embraced the role because of his versatility.
“Wherever the coaches needed me to play me anywhere, I’m always available and could just do what I’m told to do,” said Douglas, who returned a kickoff 96 yards for a TD in the preseason game. “Winning my fourth state championship here at the school is rare, and not many people can say they have done that.”
St. Thomas Aquinas also avenged a 29-22 setback last year to Chaminade-Madonna with a 27-21 victory at home. Douglas blocked a field goal with 6:28 remaining in the game, which would have knotted the game at 24-24.
When Douglas enrolled at St. Thomas Aquinas as a freshman, he wasn’t sure what to expect. However, the upperclassmen helped him adapt and improve as a player. He returned the favor this season, working with the younger players, and said the cultural experience of traveling to London to play the NFL Academy provided a memorable bonding experience for the team.
“Every day, we go out, and we compete against some of the best of the best players in the country, so when we get to a state championship game, there isn’t much we haven’t seen,” said Douglas, who became a full-time starter in his junior year. “I think it started to click for me after my sophomore year.”
“Jermiyah epitomizes consistency as a successful player and productive leader,” St. Thomas Aquinas coach Roger Harriott said. “His powerful spirit and positive personality have been a blessing to our team and the (St. Thomas Aquinas) community.
“He made the type of impact that influenced and inspired his teammates to be great on and off the field,” Harriott added. “He’s an extraordinary role model and talented leader with his best blessings ahead of him.”
Jermiyah Douglas, from St. Thomas Aquinas High School, football player of the year, photographed on Tuesday, December 9, 2025.(Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Broward 7A-5A football offense first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
FIRST TEAM
Lorvens Barthelemy, Monarch, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
Lorvens Barthelemy, T, Monarch senior: The Akron commit is third in school history with 63 pancakes in a season; held a 5-star recruit to zero sacks and pressures; helped Knights to 5,400 yards, including 48 TDs on offense, two district titles, and two playoff appearances.
Jabari Brady, Monarch, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Jabari Brady, WR/DB, Monarch senior: The Missouri commit had 64 receptions for 1,118 receiving yards, 12 touchdowns, and 1,300 all-purpose yards; first player at school to have back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons; career highlight is being able to contribute to his island (Jamaica), giving back to them with clothes, shoes, books, and pencils.
Kamary Cooper, South Plantation, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Kamary Cooper, RB, South Plantation junior: Team captain led the county and state in 6A in rushing with 1,839 yards and 24 TDs; 517 receiving yards on 40 catches; two-year starter had nine 100-yard games and three 200-yard games; school-record eight straight 100-yard games; deadlifts 450 pounds.
Ben Gula, Cypress Bay, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Ben Gula, T, Cypress Bay senior: The Colorado commit was a 42-game starter, an ESPN Top 500, 250+ career pancakes, including 60 pancakes and five pressures this season; one sack allowed in 1,500 snaps over four seasons, first-team all-state.
Florentino Lopez, Monarch, Football.Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Florentino Lopez, QB, Monarch senior: Four-year captain had 9,143 career passing yards, 65 TDs and 10 INT; led Knights to three district championships; totaled 2,743 yards passing yards, 22 TDs, and 546 rushing yards and 10 TDs.
Mark Matthews, St. Thomas Aquinas. Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Mark Matthews, T, St. Thomas Aquinas junior: The 6-foot-6, 300-pound left tackle is a two-sport star for the Raiders; won state titles in basketball and football last season; starting left tackle for St. Thomas Aquinas; the 5-star recruit had 20 pancakes and helped pave the way for the Raiders to get 5,211 yards.
A’mir Sears, West Broward, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)A’mir Sears, ATH, West Broward sophomore: Two-way player contributed 942 yards receiving and 11 TDs, including a 99-yard reception against Cardinal Gibbons; was a MaxPreps freshman All-American as a defensive back; had 50 tackles and three interceptions as the Bobcats made the state finals for the first time.
Dylan Steen, St. Thomas Aquinas. Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Dylan Steen, OL, St. Thomas Aquinas senior: Team captain and three-time state champion is a Mississippi State commit; three-star prospect didn’t allow a sack all season.
Jordan Thompson, Coconut Creek, Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Jordan Thompson, RB, Coconut Creek senior: Ran for 234 yards against Atlantic; captain named both offensive and team MVP; 722 rushing yards, 349 receiving yards, 13 TDs; helped Cougars to a 9-3 record and district runner-up spot.
Jahnard Young, Piper, Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Jahnard Young, RB, Piper junior: Led Bengals with 1,395 rushing yards and 20 TDs; added 114 receiving yards and 1 TD; is a three-year starter; benches 315; said football teaches him discipline; also runs track.
Julius Jones Jr., St. Thomas Aquinas, Football. All-County, Deerfield Beach, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Julius Jones, Jr., WR, St. Thomas Aquinas junior: Four-star prospect caught seven passes for a game-high 140 yards in the Raiders’ 29-0 victory in the 5A state championship win over Lakeland for a state-record seventh consecutive title; had 750 yards receiving 14 TDs.
2025 Broward Fall All County First Team: Kenson Louis; McArthur; 2025 Fall All County 4A-1A football First Team. (McArthur Athletics/Courtesy)Kenson Louis, RB, McArthur senior: Led 5A with 1,069 rushing yards and 6 TDs; paced the Mustangs to an upset win over Atlantic with 134 rushing yards and had 104 yards rushing in a loss to St. Thomas Aquinas; also helped McArthur to a 10-3 record and second round playoff game.
SECOND TEAM
Amos Bradford, RB, West Broward junior
Gerren Bray, OL, St. Thomas Aquinas junior
Santana Carlos, WR, Flanagan senior
Jayden Chico, QB, Dillard senior
Damian Dickenson, RB, Western senior
Bryan Granger, OL, West Broward senior
Melvin Hayward, OL, Flanagan senior
Virgil Lemons, RB, St. Thomas Aquinas junior
Brandin Mincey, QB, West Broward senior
Keshawn Paschall, RB, Monarch sophomore
Jabaree Riggins, WR, Monarch senior
Dylan Zaldumbide, WR, South Plantation senior
HONORABLE MENTIONCoconut Creek: Carlos Alce, Cayden Delions, Tevin Sutherland
Cooper City: Rubin Cesar, Ace Taylor, Jake Wallace
Coral Glades: Anthony Casseus, James Griffin, Joe Kogan, Julian Madero, Bryan Pierre, Ryan Pierre, Romeo Williams
Cypress Bay: Jalin Agudelo, Peyton Lammare, Kaden Langford, Jayden Mendez, Michael Millar
Deerfield Beach: Gavin Almonard
Flanagan: Ahmad Adams, Devon Blatch, Chance Humphrey, Jaden McGee, Malik Miller, Jacob Thomas, Jahmar Williams
Hollywood Hills: Mario Agnant, Gareus Nanton
McArthur: Dylan Casimir, Jordan Davis, Robert Ortega, Semaj Robinson, Troy Smith
Miramar: Ka’nard Boucard
Monarch: Juwan Dawkins, Amari Deer, Contreas Faison Jr., Jamar Hudson, Nicholas Soto
Nova: Nathaniel Hunningham, Tyler Smith
Pembroke Pines Charter: Michael Akinbehinje, Josiah Knight
St. Thomas Aquinas: Mekhi Bradley, Gerren Bray, Isaiah Calixte, Quyis Daley, Michael Digilio, Chase Goodrich
South Broward: Kameron Pelayo, Jamari Ritter, Derrick Simmons, Steven Wright
South Plantation: Kaleb DeClaire
Stoneman Douglas: Scott Walker
Taravella: Eddie James, Amir Sameem
West Broward: Daquan Adderly, Cameron Goodwin, Malik Miller, Kedarius Rhaney, Alejandro Schmitt
Western: Silas Allen, Russell George, Levi Hoss, Jack Spader, Caleb Williams
CO-COACHES OF THE YEAR Brian McCartney, West Broward, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Brian McCartney, West Broward: In his sixth season, he led the Bobcats to the state championship game, the school’s first, despite not having a home field. “We are true road warriors. We don’t have a home field and have played 64 road games. Compared to a lot of the private (schools), it’s an uphill battle all day long, but our team has done a great job, along with our administration and our coaching staff.”
Roger Harriott, St. Thomas Aquinas, Football. Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Roger Harriott, St. Thomas Aquinas: Guided Raiders to a 14-1 record and state-record seventh consecutive state championship with a 29-0 win over Lakeland; has a career record of 220-30 with 9 state championships in 11 state championship appearances. “I’m personally most proud of the spiritual devotion this particular team has for our faith in God and representing the “Champions 4 Christ” season theme. They have elevated our program beyond secular norms by spiritually prepping to win with group prayers, Bible study sessions, and gospel music as our source of motivation.”
Broward 7A-5A football defense first team and second team
FIRST TEAM
Christian Davis, Monarch, Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
Christian Davis, CB, Monarch senior: Three-star prospect; three-year starter provided coverage against top receivers and finished with 13 solo tackles, and 32 tackles overall; had first career pick-6; career highlight was upsetting Chaminade-Madonna last season; University of North Dakota signee.
Alex Gammage, Piper, Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Alex Gammage, CB, Piper senior: Captain had 6 INTs, 2 fumble recoveries, 16 passes defended, 14 solo tackles; three-year starter made multiple all-star games; 2023 district champs; had 5 TDs on offense and special teams: one rushing, two receiving, one on a punt return and one throwing; contributed 187 all-purpose yards; had clinching INT in first-round win over Flanagan.
Phillip Goodrich, St. Thomas Aquinas. Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Phillip Goodrich, LB, St. Thomas Aquinas senior: Captain is headed to West Point; runs 40 in 4.56; three-time state champion; two-year starter; squats 585 pounds, deadlifts 605 and benches 350; had 102 tackles, including 64 solo; 16 TFL, 5 sacks, INT; held 19 D1 offers.
Uryah McCartney, West Broward, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Uryah McCartney, LB, West Broward senior: Captain finished season with 72 tackles, 9.5 TFL, 2 FF, 5 sacks and an INT; said his career highlight was helping lead the Bobcats to their first state championship appearance with his father, Brian, as coach.
Travis McGill Jr. Flanagan, Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Travis McGill Jr., DE, Flanagan senior: Team captain and two-time MVP for the team; 11 forced fumbles, 24 solo tackles, 55 total tackles, 26 tackles for loss; top 90 in sacks in the country; ranked 16th in Florida for sacks with 17 sacks.
Dasean Miller, Monarch, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Dasean Miller, Edge, Monarch senior: Team captain had INT, fumble recovery, three forced fumbles and 63 solo tackles; 23 TFL, with 15 sacks; had fumble recovery for a touchdown; district champion.
Daniel Norman, St. Thomas Aquinas. Football. Daniel Norman, St.Thomas. Football.Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Daniel Norman, Edge, St. Thomas Aquinas senior: Sun Sentinel 2025 Super 11 selection is a 4-star recruit; team captain; had 31 tackles, forced four fumbles; Oklahoma commit had six tackles, two sacks, two TFL in state championship win over Lakeland for record seventh straight state title.
Wyatt Smith, St.Thomas. Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Wyatt Smith, DL, St. Thomas Aquinas junior: Named player of the game four times this season; had 110 tackles, including 59 solo tackles; 3 fumble recoveries, 3 forced fumbles, 5 passes defended, 11 sacks and 22 TFL; said flying to London as a team to play the NFL Academy was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Tyler Tindal, West Broward, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Tyler Tindal, LB/SS, West Broward sophomore: Helped lead the Bobcats (12-3) to their first Class 6A state championship game appearance by recording 93 tackles, including 75 solo and nine for loss and five sacks; finished season with six tackles, including 1.5 for loss in state championship game loss to two-time defending state champion West Boca.
Justice Fitzpatrick, St. Thomas Aquinas, Football. All-County, Deerfield Beach, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Justice Fitzpatrick, ATH, St. Thomas Aquinas senior: Two-time Super 11 selection helped Raiders to a seventh consecutive state championship, a state record, along with his fourth; also shook off injury to record 12 catches for 194 yards and two TDs, in addition to 15 tackles on defense; University of Georgia signee; brother of Dolphins safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
2025 Broward Fall All County First Team: Debonaire Johnson; McArthur; 2025 Fall All County 7A-5A football First Team. (McArthur Athletics/Courtesy)Debonaire Johnson, LB, McArthur junior: Two-time Sun Sentinel first-team all-county, and two-time MaxPreps All American; had 174 tackles sophomore year; 3-year starter, 2-time district champion; 45 solo tackles, 12 TFL, 4 sacks, 2 blocked punts, blocked field goal; 16 tackles in regional quarterfinal win over Atlantic.
Jaylin Jones; McArthur; All County 7A-5A football First Team. (Western Athletics/Courtesy)Jaylin Jones, FS, McArthur junior: Two-time All-County selection had 37 tackles, including 14 for losses and 10.5 sacks; 4-year-starter, benches 500 pounds; state high school 400-meter track champion; UM commit.
SECOND TEAM
Donovan Adras, SS, St. Thomas Aquinas senior
Jalin Agudelo, LB, Cypress Bay sophomore
Shmar Akand, DB, West Broward senior
Jaden Carey, DB, St. Thomas Aquinas junior
Jahmani Chin-Suer, FS, Piper senior
Jason Farfan, DL, West Broward senior
Zayden Gamble, DB, St. Thomas Aquinas junior
Jakari Johnson, DB, McArthur senior
Jayden Joselin, DB, Monarch senior
Jonah Lenamon, LB/DE, Stoneman Douglas senior
Travis McGill, DE, Flanagan senior
Michael Millar, S, Cypress Bay senior
Conrad Tolerico, P, St. Thomas Aquinas senior
Bryce Williams, CB, Western junior
Broward 4A-1A football offensive player of the year: Derrek Cooper, Chaminade-Madonna senior
Derrek Cooper accomplished just about everything he wanted to short of helping Chaminade-Madonna win a fifth straight 1A state championship.
The senior running back, a five-star recruit and team captain, is headed to the University of Texas, and did his part to help the Lions (11-3) reach a state-record 10th straight championship game; however, for the first time in five years, Chaminade-Madonna lost the title game, falling to South Florida rival Cardinal Newman.
Cooper finished the year with 160 rushes for a career-high 1,597 yards and 19 touchdowns. He also added 8 catches for 115 yards and one TD. He earned the Nat Moore Trophy as South Florida’s top high school football player. He transferred to Chaminade-Madonna from Cardinal Gibbons right before his junior season.
Although he has played multiple positions, such as running back, linebacker, safety, defensive line, and quarterback, he focused mainly on running back this season.
“I want to do anything to help my team win,” Cooper said. “Coach (Dameon) Jones just says, ‘go to linebacker, go to safety, go to D line, go to quarterback,’ and I just do it.”
Cooper said he wants to be remembered for his “authenticity, humility, and hard-hitting playing style,” not for showmanship. He also describes a “mean streak” that emerges on the field, contrasting with his typically quiet demeanor. He’s looking forward to starting the next chapter.
“I’m expecting the same thing (at Texas), but just at a different place,” Cooper said. “I would like to start there, and I am looking forward to maybe taking handoffs from (American Heritage quarterback) Dia Bell. That would be amazing. I felt (Texas was a great fit for my family and me.
“We rotated here with all of the great running backs we have,” Cooper said. “It keeps us fresh and keeps everyone healthy. We had some great players at Chaminade, so I think that prepared me for whatever I am going to face in college. I want to be remembered as someone who didn’t act ‘Hollywood,’ just someone who does what they are supposed to do.”
Derrek Cooper from Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory, football player of the year, photographed on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.(Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Broward 4A-1A football defensive player of the year: Terrance Johnson, American Heritage senior; Bryant Junius, Chaminade-Madonna senior
American Heritage senior defensive back Terrance Johnson and Chaminade Madonna senior linebacker and safety Bryant Junius both played key roles in their teams’ runs to the state championship games at Pitbull Stadium on the campus of Florida International University in Miami.
Johnson led the county with 12 interceptions, including two key picks against rival Archbishop McCarthy en route to a second straight 4A championship. They rallied to defeat Orlando Jones for a second consecutive time in the state title game. Johnson had three tackles, but provided a key interception to hold off a Jones rally as the Patriots prevailed 33-28.
Johnson added a fumble recovery, a forced fumble, 3 passes defended, 52 total tackles, including 30 solo and two TDs for the Patriots (9-5), who rallied from a 1-3 start and 4-5 record before the playoffs to win five straight. They also cracked the top-100 rankings to finish 98th in the latest MaxPreps rankings.
Johnson transferred to American Heritage from South Broward and said it was a big difference. He knows that some top defensive backs have preceded him there, including two-time All-Pro Patrick Surtain II, the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2024.
“I grind it every day, put the work in, and work and dedication paid off,” Johnson said. “It’s a whole different ballgame from public schools. When I actually got here, I saw what they were talking about. They have a lot of good defensive backs who have gone on and had some success in the NFL. I hope to be like that someday.”
Terrance Johnson from American Heritage High School, football player of the year, photographed on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.(Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Junius also had a stellar season for the No. 88 Lions (11-3), who dropped a 17-14 decision to Cardinal Newman in the 1A state championship tilt. Junius contributed nine tackles in the loss, which snapped a streak of four state championships in a row.
The Appalachian State University commit ended the season with 102 tackles, 16 tackles for loss (including four sacks), eight pass deflections and two forced fumbles. He was the team captain for the past two seasons and said his career highlight was a pick-6 on ESPN in his sophomore season.
“I want my legacy at the school to be remembered as a selfless team player, willing to do anything for my teammates,” said Junius, whose college destination will be in the cold, something he’s never experienced before. “Daily practices were always highly competitive due to the team’s depth, with both offense and defense pushing each other to improve. “I was a team player, and I’ll do anything for the team for my team, and I can’t do anything without my team and my coaches.”
Bryant Junius from Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory, football player of the year, photographed on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.(Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Broward 4A-1A football offense first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year
FIRST TEAM
Ekeem Atehortua, Chaminade Madonna, Football, Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
Ekeem Atehortua, OL, Chaminade-Madonna senior: The O-Line captain is three-time state football champion, two-time Sun Sentinel 1st team All County; in 4 years didn’t allow a sack and had 42 pancakes this year; Alabama State University commit also wrestles.
Kaj Baker, Somerset Academy, Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Kaj Baker, RB, Somerset Academy senior: Three-time Sun Sentinel All-County pick; state runner-up in 100 meters in track; had 1,022 rushing yards, 516 receiving yards, 15 total TDs; on defense had a pick-6; 28 tackles, 8 pass break-ups; 2 INTs; first player at school to sign Power 4 scholarship (UCF); had 4 TD game.
Jamar Denson, American Heritage, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Jamar Denson, WR, American Heritage senior: Team captain is two-time first-team All-County selection for Sun Sentinel; 991 yards receiving and 15 scores for two-time state champions; had 187 receiving yards and a TD against former school Chaminade-Madonna; Troy signee, selected as the MVP of state championship win with 70 yards receiving and two scores.
Gary Hadley Jr., Cardinal Gibbons, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Gary Hadley Jr., WR, Cardinal Gibbons senior: Tulane commit played both ways for the Chiefs and helped lead them to the state semifinals; had two INTs in a game on defense; had 1,042 yards receiving and 11 TDs.
Arwin Jackson, Chaminade-Madonna, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Arwin Jackson, RB, Chaminade-Madonna junior: Ran for 905 yards and nine TDs for the state-runner-up Lions; being recruited by Georgia Tech, UM, Syracuse and Ohio State.
Anthony Jennings III, Dillard, Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Anthony Jennings, WR, Dillard junior: Helped lead the Panthers to an undefeated regular season with 823 receiving yards and nearly 1,000 all-purpose yards; 12 TDs; led Dillard in both categories; holds 29 D-1 offers.
Za’Kari Johnson, Plantation, Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Za’Kari Johnson, ATH, Plantation sophomore: Stepped in and played quarterback at the end of the season, throwing for 551 yards and 12TDs, rushed for 777 yards and nine scores; runs track and holds offers from programs like Miami, and Florida State University.
Malik Leonard, Chaminade-Madonna, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Malik Leonard, QB, Chaminade-Madonna freshman: A team captain played four nationally televised games, including two on ESPN; threw for more than 2,900 yards and 31 TDs with an additional 95 yards rushing and three scores, all freshman school records.
Coi Jean-Noel, American Heritage, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Coi Jean Noel, WR, American Heritage senior: Three-star prospect was team captain and a Super 11 selection for the Sun Sentinel this year; Georgia Tech signee finished with 793 yards with 6 TDs; had 166 passing yards.
Jayden Torres, Cardinal Gibbons, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Jayden Torres, QB, Cardinal Gibbons senior: Captain holds seven school records; finished year with 3,230 passing yards, 37 passing TDs; 429 rushing yards, 9 rushing TDs; two-time Sun Sentinel All-County first-team selection.
Ja’Kobi Williams, Archbishop McCarthy, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Ja’Kobi Williams, WR, Archbishop McCarthy junior: Helped Mavericks stun defending an eventual 4A state champion American Heritage for a district championship; had 30 receptions for 613 yards and 12 TDs; also had an INT on defense.
Jasen Lopez, Chaminade-Madonna. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Jasen Lopez, WR/Slot, Chaminade-Madonna senior: The FSU commit for football and basketball won state championship last season with Lions; had team-leading, 1,110 yards and 13 TDs this year; Super 11 football selection for Sun Sentinel and Fab 5 pick for basketball this year; three back-to-back seasons with more than 1,000 yards receiving.
SECOND TEAMTavano Baptiste Jr. OL, Chaminade-Madonna senior
Drew Barber, WR, Westminster Academy sophomore
Brandon Bennett, WR, American Heritage senior
Jeremy Douglas, RB, Cardinal Gibbons sophomore
Damian Grant, RB, Archbishop McCarthy junior
Denairius Gray, WR, Chaminade-Madonna senior
Tromon Isaac Jr., WR, Chaminade-Madonna sophomore
Robert Kerns, QB, Archbishop McCarthy senior
Lee Prince Jr., RB, Chaminade-Madonna junior
Zachariah Ray, RB, Plantation senior
Ah’mari Stevens, WR, Chaminade-Madonna junior
Leon Strawder, QB, American Heritage senior
Teddy Welch, OL, American Heritage senior
HONORABLE MENTIONAmerican Heritage: Dia Bell, Ky’Marlei Brown, Jonathan Bueno, Armani Eusebio, Aiden Hartnett, Josh Houston, Aldarius Johnson, Tremaine Mullen, Michah Price, Nico Ramos
Archbishop McCarthy: Jeremiah Alexandre, Cole Ivy
Calvary Christian: Joey Bleecker, Santi Fuentes, Gavin Ganter, Josh Hallas, Noah Johnson, JJ Rochford, Jackson Stroud
Cardinal Gibbons: Joseph Cammarata, Dominic Celli, Luke Cichoski, Demarcus DeRoche, Donte Findeson, Tyler Fuquay, Javian Norwood, Adam Salem, Merrick Todich
Chaminade-Madonna: Daveon Black, Sam Brown Jr., TeMorris Campbell, Giovanni Gardener, Ron’Christopher Gonzalez, Elijah Hardy, Peter Pierre, Elias Sturman
Coral Springs Charter: Christian Clinkscale, Carter Hayden, Stone Rolle, Shanse Small, Noah Yarbrough
Dillard: Jamar Brinson, Dakari Brown, Zamari Marquez, Sidney Newkirt Jr., Latavius Taylor
Hallandale: Elijah Davis, Cassius Enriquez, Robert Sanford
Miramar: Amari Glover, Taron Nicks, Tyler Reid, Lamon Witherspoon,
North Broward Prep: Damon Alexander, Ralph Diaz, Noah Finkelstein, Kenneth Hall, Thor Hwasta, Peter McLaughlin, Ethan Phillips, Mateo Sanchez, Josh Sylvain, Emerson Walker
Pine Crest: Marco Friezo, Jacob Lobis, Zach Moss, Brayden Myers,
Plantation: Timothy Brown, Desmond Christian, Joseph James, Marlin Johnson Jeffrey O’Neal, Kendall Smith
Pompano Beach: Aiden Hamilton
University School: Carlos Avila-Lopez, Kobe Conway, Jaidyne Dixson, Izayah Harris, Charvis Hood, Jaden Miller, Smith Moise, Kai Starks, Darrell Tiger,
Westminster Academy: Cortland Brownfield, Javaris Cason, Robert Donald, Hudson Gant, Trey Hollandsworth, Rashard Lewis, DJ Pierce, Jack Scott
CO-COACHES OF THE YEAR Mike Smith, American Heritage, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Mike Smith, American Heritage: Rallied the Patriots from a 1-3 start and the loss of 5-star QB Dia Bell to win a second straight 4A state championship. “I am so proud of overcoming all of the adversity this group went through. This team showed incredible resolve. We overcame the loss of a top D-1 quarterback, played the fourth-toughest schedule in the country and they still found a way to overcome.”
Chaminade-Madonna head coach Dameon Jones talks with officials before the game against Cardinal Newman, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, during the State Class 1A championship at Pitbull Stadium at Florida International University in Miami. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Dameon Jones, Chaminade-Madonna: Guided the Lions to a state-record 10th consecutive state championship final, where they have won seven. They dropped a 17-14 decision to Cardinal Newman as they were gunning for a fifth straight state championship. “Just couldn’t get out of the blocks today. We had some wide open guys that we couldn’t hit and that hurt us for sure. So many missed opportunities and after a while all of that catches up to you.”
Today in History: December 25, Northwest Airlines passengers foil underwear bomber
Today is Thursday, Dec. 25, the 359th day of 2025. There are six days left in the year. This is Christmas Day.
Today in history:On Dec. 25, 2009, passengers aboard Northwest Airlines Flight 253 foiled an attempt to blow up the plane as it was landing in Detroit by seizing Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab (OO’-mahr fah-ROOK’ ahb-DOOL’-moo-TAH’-lahb), who tried to set off explosives in his underwear. (Abdulmutallab later pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life in prison.)
Also on this date:In 1066, William the Conqueror was crowned King of England.
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In 1818, “Silent Night (Stille Nacht)” was publicly performed for the first time during the Christmas Midnight Mass at the Church of St. Nikolaus in Oberndorf, Austria.
In 1868, President Andrew Johnson granted unconditional pardons to “every person who directly or indirectly” supported the Confederacy in the Civil War.
In 1776, Gen. George Washington and his troops crossed the Delaware River for a surprise attack against Hessian forces at Trenton, New Jersey, during the American Revolutionary War.
In 1926, Hirohito became emperor of Japan, succeeding his father, Emperor Yoshihito.
In 1989, ousted Romanian President Nicolae Ceausescu (chow-SHES’-koo) and his wife Elena were executed following a populist uprising.
In 2021, NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, the world’s largest and most powerful space telescope, was rocketed aloft from French Guiana in South America on a quest to see light from the first stars and galaxies and search the universe for signs of life.
Today’s Birthdays:- Football Hall of Famer Larry Csonka is 79.
- Country singer Barbara Mandrell is 77.
- Actor Sissy Spacek is 76.
- Former White House adviser Karl Rove is 75.
- Actor CCH Pounder is 73.
- Singer Annie Lennox is 71.
- Country singer Steve Wariner is 71.
- Model and businesswoman Helena Christensen is 57.
- Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is 54.
- Actor Jeremy Strong is 47.
Marlins add veteran closer Pete Fairbanks in biggest free-agent pickup in years
MIAMI — The Marlins made their first sizable free-agent investment in two years on Wednesday, agreeing to terms with veteran right-hander closer Pete Fairbanks on a one-year, $13 million deal.
The deal is agreed to but contingent on Fairbanks passing a physical, according to a source.
Fairbanks will become the team’s second-highest paid player, behind Sandy Alcantara, and gives the Marlins their most established closer in several years.
To read the full report, click here for miamiherald.com
Pictures: Thousands of ‘Surfing Santas’ congregate on Cocoa Beach
Show Caption1 of 45Goff Stepien of Daytona Beach catches a wave during Surfing Santas at Cocoa Beach on Dec. 24, 2025. The annual event gathers people for Sunshine State holiday cheer and catching waves, Santa style. This year was estimated to have record-breaking attendance with over 12,000 visitors. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)
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Every year since 2009, festive Floridians and visitors have gathered on Cocoa Beach for a celebration of holiday fun in the sun. “Surfing Santas,” which started as a humble gathering of a few families and friends, has grown to involve thousands of attendees, some of whom surf in jolly attire. This year included a record-breaking attendance, estimated at over 12,000 people. “I feel like we’re spreading joy around the world,” said event founder George Trosset, noting the widespread media attention this holiday tradition garners.
Daily Horoscope for December 25, 2025
General Daily Insight for December 25, 2025
Small steps create a steady rhythm today. With the intuitive Moon collaborating with action-oriented Mars at 10:45 AM EST, we’re more capable of channeling our feelings into practical applications. This is boosted by the earlier sextile between the Moon and the Sun. That softened our edges, allowing us to have kind conversations that prepped everyone for this Moon-Mars action surge. By evening, we can unwind with supportive people, letting simple care gently restore our spirits. Each one of us can choose patience.
AriesMarch 21 – April 19
Listening is vital at the moment. As your inner voice speaks, its volume is magnified by the Moon in your detailed 12th house and Mars in your visible 10th house. Reflection, not pressure, supports wise career choices. You might have to push back against rushed deadlines, knowing that you’ll function better after a short rest. Quiet music, journaling, or a short walk could all help you settle down, release tension, and refocus. Protect today’s downtime, since restored energy sharpens tomorrow’s bold moves.
TaurusApril 20 – May 20
This morning dawns calm and kind. Your 11th House of Aspirations takes focus as the instinctive Moon collaborates with energetic Mars, crafting a space where teamwork can build practical paths to shared ideas. A friend might invite you to join a class, and your steady sense of pace keeps plans grounded even as your 9th house whispers of adventure. You may moderate a chat thread, ensuring that small misunderstandings don’t wreck your entire circle. Leave some space for “maybes” in every plan.
GeminiMay 21 – June 20
Put the pedal to the metal, Gemini! The lively Moon sextiles fiery Mars today, with Luna in your powerful 10th house and Mars in your intense 8th house. Any authorities or clients may demand frequent updates — or you may freely offer them. A side conversation could transform scattered ideas into a clear plan (professional or personal) that gets everyone excited. If you’re in charge, use a light hand to ensure the decisions stay collaborative. Clear words make real progress feel easy.
CancerJune 21 – July 22
You deserve spacious, hopeful conversations now. Curiosity opens your world as the emotional Moon in your engaging 9th house cooperates with passionate Mars within your companionable 7th house. Let your intrigue draw you toward fresh connections! Additionally, heartfelt talks with a mentor or senior may soothe old worries. For maximum success, don’t rush any such conversations. Instead, make an effort to bridge differing perspectives by sharing a simple story from experience. Keep listening, because understanding turns distance into trust sooner.
LeoJuly 23 – August 22
Soft courage empowers your current plans. Your 8th House of Intimacy and your 6th House of Chores are both steadied by the Moon and Mars supporting each other, so money talks can become calmer as everyone seeks fair results. You may write down a clearer split of expenses, so everyone remembers their dues without needing to be verbally reminded. Be mindful of upcoming deadlines! Try to start serious conversations (about money or other topics) in advance, so there’ll be room to take breaks as needed.
VirgoAugust 23 – September 22
Cooperation can bring practical wins! The nurturing Moon in your agreeable 7th house is sextiling impassioned Mars in your bouyant 5th house, encouraging mutual effort in talks about responsibilities, timing, and expectations. You might propose a shared calendar to smooth daily responsibilities while keeping the tone gentle with a collaborator or relative. Pride could make it hard to accept mistakes, but you’re capable of listening carefully and shaping an agreement everyone can maintain. Choose fairness to protect the relationships you value most.
LibraSeptember 23 – October 22
Patience can make work feel lighter than you’d think. Your 6th House of Everyday Effort gets a lift as the tender Moon complements motivated Mars, channeling emotional intensity into focused tasks and supportive routines. You may streamline your routine so you gain extra room to handle a stubborn task at work, school, or home. While family demands could impact your timing, you’re braced to set boundaries and finish what matters without overloading yourself. Work smart, because steady habits free more sweet time later.
ScorpioOctober 23 – November 21
Early hours invite playful, creative risks. The unconscious Moon sextiles fierce Mars across your expressive 5th house and your vocal 3rd house, ensuring that you can make yourself heard regarding what you love. Consider hosting a game night or attending an artistic event — something you can enjoy without pressure! Choosing what to do might be the hard part, because whatever you pick, you can have tons of fun with the ones you love. As you indulge in this joy, you’re simultaneously strengthening those relationships.
SagittariusNovember 22 – December 21
When home and money agree, peace follows. Make an effort to forge your restlessness into realistic action. Thankfully, that shouldn’t be too hard to do as Luna and Mars work together. Just be wary of being overly aggressive when it comes to asking about shared expenses, especially with roommates you don’t know particularly well. You can navigate the murky water of joint finances with care. Alternate arrangements could be necessary — for instance, someone who can’t pitch in monetarily may assist by tidying up.
CapricornDecember 22 – January 19
You’re leading with clear words and patience. Conversation becomes your strong suit as the Moon in your talking zone harmonizes with warrior Mars in your steady sign, inspiring messages that are useful without being unkind. You may call a sibling to clear a misunderstanding, making your way through thorny topics with patience. Whether you’re officially in charge or not, you can strengthen your message by proving your reliability throughout the day. Calm phrasing and responsible action move plans forward with far less friction.
AquariusJanuary 20 – February 18
Gentle persistence guides your money choices. Security grows as the temperamental Moon works with Mars to align across your inward-focused 12th house and your money-minded 2nd house. You can honor your needs without overspending. Perhaps you’ll analyze your salary or rates and determine that you’re ready to ask for a raise, or maybe you’ll donate your time to a charity. When it comes to your wants, a short pause before buying keeps emotions from deciding the whole cart. Right now, spending should feel intentional.
PiscesFebruary 19 – March 20
Confidence grows as you gain momentum throughout your day. Believing in yourself is the best kind of motivation, especially with the Moon empowering your thoughtful sign. While there, Luna cooperates with combative Mars in your communal 11th house. By today’s end, you’ll know that courage doesn’t mean being rude, and kindness doesn’t mean being a doormat. You may send a thoughtful invitation, and your kind presence wins attention without dramatic effort from people nearby. Let connections build gradually — just like your own confidence!
Trump warns against infiltration by a ‘bad Santa,’ defends coal in jovial Christmas calls with kids
By WILL WEISSERT
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President Donald Trump marked Christmas Eve by quizzing children calling in about what presents they were excited about receiving, while promising to not let a “bad Santa” infiltrate the country and even suggesting that a stocking full of coal may not be so bad.
Vacationing at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, the president and first lady Melania Trump participated in the tradition of talking to youngsters dialing into the North American Aerospace Defense Command, which playfully tracks Santa’s progress around the globe.
“We want to make sure that Santa is being good. Santa’s a very good person,” Trump said while speaking to kids ages 4 and 10 in Oklahoma. “We want to make sure that he’s not infiltrated, that we’re not infiltrating into our country a bad Santa.”
He didn’t elaborate.
Show Caption1 of 3President Donald Trump, speaks accompanied by first lady Melania Trump, during a NORAD, North American Aerospace Defense Command, Tracks Santa Operation call at his Mar-a-Lago club, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025, in Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) ExpandTrump has often marked Christmases past with criticisms of his political enemies, including in 2024, when he posted, “Merry Christmas to the Radical Left Lunatics.” During his first term, Trump wrote online early on Dec. 24, 2017, targeting a top FBI official he believed was biased against him, as well as the news media.
But Trump was in a jovial mood this time. He even said, I “could do this all day long,” but likely would have to get back to more pressing matters like efforts to quell the fighting in Russia’s war with Ukraine.
When an 8-year-old from North Carolina, asked if Santa would be mad if no one leaves cookies out for him, Trump said he didn’t think so, “But I think he’ll be very disappointed.”
“You know, Santa’s — he tends to be a little bit on the cherubic side. You know what cherubic means? A little on the heavy side,” Trump joked. “I think Santa would like some cookies.”
The president and first lady Melania Trump sat side-by-side and took about a dozen calls between them. At one point, while his wife was on the phone and Trump was waiting to be connected to another call, he noted how little attention she was paying to him: “She’s able to focus totally, without listening.”
Asked by an 8-year-old girl in Kansas what she’d like Santa to bring, the answer came back, “Uh, not coal.”
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“You mean clean, beautiful coal?,” Trump replied, evoking a favored campaign slogan he’s long used when promising to revive domestic coal production.
“I had to do that, I’m sorry,” the president added, laughing and even causing the first lady, who was on a separate call, to turn toward him and grin.
“Coal is clean and beautiful. Please remember that, at all costs,” Trump said. “But you don’t want clean, beautiful coal, right?”
“No,” the caller responded, saying she’d prefer a Barbie doll, clothes and candy.
Associated Press writer Darlene Superville contributed from Washington.
Grand jury declines to indict man in shooting that killed teen at Kentucky State University
FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — A grand jury has declined to indict the father of two Kentucky State University students who was charged with murder in an on-campus shooting that killed one student and critically injured another.
In a social media post after the Tuesday hearing, defense attorney Scott Danks said grand jurors decided not to indict his client, Jacob Lee Bard, for the Dec. 9 shooting and he is out of jail. In a previous statement sent to news outlets, Bard’s attorneys have said that 20 to 30 people had gathered to attack his son and family, and that he was justified in shooting two people who were beating his son.
After the grand jury decision, Kentucky State officials said they “will cooperate with law enforcement and investigators as appropriate” and are focused on student safety and well-being.
Bard’s attorneys say the family was moving their younger son out, with two armed campus police officers present, after withdrawing both sons from school because of “multiple armed, violent” incidents against them and other students in the days leading up to Dec. 9, some captured on security cameras.
When the family and an officer reached the dormitory entrance on the move-out day, the group of people in masks and hoods rushed out and began violently assaulting the family and others, including beating the son’s head against the pavement, the attorneys said.
In October, the younger son reported a burglary in his dorm room to campus police and received threats of violence afterward, the attorneys said.
Because of continued death threats, the sons are now staying in an undisclosed location, the attorneys added.
“Jacob’s actions were absolutely justified under the law, and were the only measure that prevented his son’s death or serious injury,” the attorneys wrote.
Investigators have said the shooting was isolated, but they have not publicly shared details of the circumstances or a possible motive. The shooting killed 19-year-old De’Jon Fox of Indianapolis.
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In a message to the campus community, Kentucky State said the grand jury decision “does not lessen the pain our community continues to feel, nor does it change our priorities.”
“Our commitment remains centered on supporting our students and ensuring Kentucky State University is a safe place to learn, live, and work,” it said.
The shooting was the second in four months near the residence hall. Someone fired multiple shots from a vehicle on Aug. 17, striking two people who the university said weren’t students. Frankfort police said one victim was treated for minor injuries and the second sustained serious injuries. The dorm and at least one vehicle were damaged by gunfire.
Police have said Bard, 48, is from Evansville, Indiana, which is about 150 miles west of Frankfort. He had also been charged with first-degree assault.
Kentucky State is a public historically Black university with about 2,200 students. Lawmakers authorized the school’s creation in 1886.
Call 911 or risk losing the baby? Raids force some immigrants to avoid care
By Halle Parker, Verite News, KFF Health News
As immigrants in southeastern Louisiana and Mississippi braced for this month’s U.S. Homeland Security operation, Cristiane Rosales-Fajardo received a panicked phone call from a friend.
The friend’s Guatemalan tenant, who didn’t know she was pregnant, had just delivered a premature baby in the New Orleans house. The parents lacked legal residency, and the mother refused to go to a hospital for fear of being detained by federal immigration officers.
“There’s blood everywhere, and the baby’s dead,” Rosales-Fajardo recalled her friend saying.
Rosales-Fajardo put on her sandals, grabbed surgical gloves, and rushed to the house.
Rosales-Fajardo, herself an immigrant from Brazil, is a grassroots organizer and advocate in the New Orleans East community, where many immigrants live. She has no formal medical training, but she has experience with delivering babies.
She scanned the room when she arrived. A 3-year-old child stood to one side while the mother sat on the edge of the bed. The father held their swaddled newborn son, who wasn’t breathing and was wrapped in blood-soaked towels.
“The baby was completely gray,” Rosales-Fajardo later said.
Rosales-Fajardo wiped fluid away from his small mouth and rubbed his back before performing tiny chest compressions and breathing air into his lungs.
She told the parents she had to call 911 to get the mother and newborn to a hospital for care. The baby was out, but the delivery wasn’t over.
“I assured her. I promised her that she was going to be safe,” Rosales-Fajardo said.
Fear hung over the room. Still, she made the call and continued performing CPR. Finally, the newborn revived and squirmed in Rosales-Fajardo’s arms. When the ambulance arrived, the mother tried to keep her husband from riding with her, terrified they would both be arrested. He went, anyway.
“These are hard-working people,” Rosales-Fajardo said. “All they do is work to provide for their family. But they were almost at risk of losing their child rather than call 911.”
Show Caption1 of 5Cristiane Rosales-Fajardo speaks by phone to a Guatemalan family she helped in a medical emergency. (Christiana Botic/KFF Health News/TNS) Expand Putting Safety Over HealthNearly two weeks into the Department of Homeland Security’s Operation Catahoula Crunch, which launched Dec. 3, health professionals and community advocates in Louisiana and Mississippi report that a significantly higher-than-usual number of immigrant patients have skipped health care appointments and experienced heightened stress levels.
According to a press release, DHS said it had arrested more than 250 people as of Dec. 11. Though federal officials say they’re targeting criminals, The Associated Press reported that most of the 38 people arrested in the first two days of the New Orleans operation had no criminal record.
Since President Donald Trump took office in January, immigrant families nationwide have become more likely to skip or delay health care, due in part to concerns about their legal status, according to a recent survey by KFF and The New York Times.
The survey found that nearly 8 in 10 immigrants likely to be living in the U.S. without legal permission say they’ve experienced negative health impacts this year, from increased anxiety to sleeping problems to worsened health conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. The federal immigration raids in California, Illinois, North Carolina, and now Louisiana and Mississippi add to the health care barriers that these families already face, including access to services, language barriers, lack of insurance, and high costs.
That hesitancy to receive even emergency care appears justified amid the ongoing raids. Hospitals and health facilities generally must allow federal agents in areas where the public is allowed, according to the American Civil Liberties Union. In California this year, federal agents have staked out hospital lobbies, shown up at community clinics, and guarded detainees in hospital rooms. Even driving to and from appointments poses a risk, as traffic stops are a popular place for immigration agents to make arrests.
University Medical Center nurse Terry Mogilles said that immigrants typically make up at least half the patients in her orthopedic trauma clinic in New Orleans, many of them with construction-related, bone-crushing injuries that require surgery. But now, Mogilles said, many of those patients aren’t coming in for follow-up appointments, despite the risk of infection.
“When we call, we can’t get through,” Mogilles said. “It is so upsetting because we have no idea what’s happening to them post-op.”
Terry Mogilles, a registered nurse at University Medical Center in New Orleans, says that immigrants typically make up at least half the patients in her orthopedic trauma clinic. (Christiana Botic/KFF Health News/TNS) A Chill Spreads in the SouthFederal officials said the Catahoula Crunch operation extends to southern Mississippi, though the bulk of the initial arrests have occurred in the Greater New Orleans area. Immigrant families throughout Mississippi are hunkering down in anticipation.
Michael Oropeza, executive director of El Pueblo, a nonprofit serving low-income immigrant communities in Biloxi and Forest, said the organization has witnessed families delay care, cancel children’s checkups, and go without refilling medication.
“It’s not because they don’t value their health; it’s because they don’t feel safe,” Oropeza said. “When hospitals and clinics are no longer that safe place, people withdraw trust that took years to build up. It can disappear overnight.”
Maria, a Biloxi resident from Honduras, said, in Spanish, she and her two children have missed routine doctors’ appointments because they are “terrified” to leave the house amid an increased presence of federal immigration officers. Her husband, who is authorized to work in the U.S., was detained for two months this year.
Her children are U.S. citizens. They previously qualified for Medicaid, but Maria opted to disenroll them three years ago out of concern that using public benefits would jeopardize her family’s residency applications, she said. The family now pays for their children’s care out-of-pocket.
When it feels safe to attend doctors’ appointments again, Maria said, her priority will be seeking mental health care to address the stress her family has endured.
“I definitely need to see a doctor to get checked out, because I don’t feel well,” she said, describing her anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
A handwritten sign states“ ICE IS NOT ALLOWED TO ENTER” at the chained-off entrance of a neighborhood in New Orleans in December. (Christiana Botic/KFF Health News/TNS)In Louisiana, Marcela Hernandez of Familias Unidas en Acción, a nonprofit that provides direct aid to immigrants, said many of the families she works with live paycheck to paycheck. Sheltering at home and missing work only adds to the stress. Hernandez said she received 800 calls for food in two days from families afraid to leave home.
The federal operation in Louisiana and Mississippi could last more than two months, according to the AP. The longer it goes on, Hernandez said, the more she worries evictions will come next as people can’t pay rent, further traumatizing a community whose members often had to make difficult and dangerous journeys to flee hardships in their countries of origin to reach the U.S.
“You don’t leave your country knowing that you’re gonna get raped on the way just simply because you wanna come and meet Mickey Mouse,” she said.
Rosales-Fajardo, who runs a nonprofit called El Pueblo NOLA, said families tell her how children have started urinating on themselves due to stress and fear. Nationally, immigrants who are likely to lack legal status report that some of their children have had problems sleeping and that they’ve seen changes in school performance or behavior, according to the KFF and New York Times survey.
Community groups said they hope people step up locally to deliver food and hygiene products to immigrant homes, and that health care professionals provide more at-home or telehealth visits.
Like at other hospitals, UMC’s waiting rooms are considered public spaces, Mogilles noted. But the nurses union is calling for the hospital to create safe spaces for patients that federal agents can’t access and clearer policies to protect health care workers who shield patients. Post-op appointments can’t be done virtually, so patients need to feel safe enough to come in, Mogilles said.
Prenatal and postnatal care is also challenging to provide virtually, leaving the health of new and expecting mothers vulnerable, said Latona Giwa, executive director of Repro TLC, a national sexual and reproductive health training nonprofit.
Since the Chicago immigration sweeps began in September, Giwa said, the clinics and health providers her organization works with have reported that 30% of patients had missed appointments. She said pharmacies saw a 40% drop in medication pickups.
“What we know about management of chronic conditions, especially in pregnancy, but in general, is that even missing one appointment can impact the trajectory of that condition and worsen a patient’s outcomes,” Giwa said.
In Louisiana, which already has poor maternal health outcomes, the fear of arrest could exacerbate the crisis worsened by the overturning of Roe v. Wade and threaten lives. She’s especially concerned about families with preterm babies in the neonatal intensive care unit, or NICU.
“Imagine your child is in the hospital, and so vulnerable, and you are terrified to go visit and care for your newborn infant because you’re worried about being deported,” Giwa said, noting that a newborn’s health partly relies on parental visits.
That’s the position the Guatemalan family in New Orleans is navigating.
On a recent day in December, Rosales-Fajardo acted as the family’s translator and advocate on their first visit to see their son in the NICU at a hospital on Lake Pontchartrain’s Northshore. Hospital staffers told the parents they would need to make the long and risky trip to the hospital repeatedly for at least a month to provide skin-to-skin contact and breast milk.
Rosales-Fajardo drove the parents, who were afraid to travel alone out of fear of being pulled over and arrested on a bridge. She said she’ll keep driving them as long as she needs to.
“Whenever they see a Hispanic driving or anything like that, that’s suspicious to them,” she said of federal agents.
But the baby is safe and healthy. And the parents have named Rosales-Fajardo his godmother.
Gwen Dilworth of Mississippi Today and Christiana Botic of Verite News contributed to this report.
©2025 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Rich McGeorge, Dolphins assistant coach for both Don Shula and Jimmy Johnson, dies at 77
Rich McGeorge, the assistant offensive line coach for the Miami Dolphins from 1993-99, died Saturday in Durham, N.C., at 77, according to the National Football Foundation.
McGeorge’s tenure had him with the Dolphins for the final three years of Hall of Fame coach Don Shula’s career and then, surviving the turnover to Hall of Fame coach Jimmy Johnson to coach with him for his four-year run before both departed Miami.
McGeorge is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame, having starred at Elon College in North Carolina, and was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the first round of the 1970 NFL draft.
He started 101 games for the Packers in his nine-year career.
As Epstein’s cushy jail sentence raised concerns, his lawyers went on charm offensive
Jeffrey Epstein’s team of high-powered lawyers famously negotiated a lenient 2007 deal on his behalf with federal prosecutors in the Southern District of Florida that allowed the financier to avoid a lengthy prison sentence and plead guilty to only two state charges to settle allegations that he had abused dozens of teenage girls.
Never-before-seen documents released this week by the Department of Justice as part of the so-called Epstein Files show how his attorneys continued to try to influence federal prosecutors even after his deal was finalized, and mixed personal and business relationships with the attorneys who had agreed to settle Epstein’s case.
While federal prosecutors pushed back against Epstein’s lawyers, at the end of day, Epstein got what he wanted.
Go to Herald.com for the full report.
Photos of Christmas celebrations around the world
The Associated Press
From Bethlehem to Beijing, people around the world are celebrating the Christmas season. A polar bear mascot boards an elevator during holiday revelry. Swimmers plunge into frigid waters off Northern Ireland for a charity event. Singers fill a stadium in Indonesia.
Associated Press photographers have captured diverse, mesmerizing images such as these as they chronicle a holiday period abounding in joy, reverence and dazzling lights.
This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors.
People drive up to the top of the Feldberg mountain near Frankfurt, Germany, to join the traditional Christmas Eve meeting of tractor and motorbike drivers early Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Michael Probst) People take to the sea at Helen’s Bay, Northern Ireland, for the annual Christmas Eve swim in the cold waters in Belfast Lough to raise money for Dementia NI & Air Ambulance NI, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Peter Morrison) People gather at Roemerberg square to attend the city’s bell ringing on Christmas Eve in Frankfurt, Germany, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Michael Probst) People wearing traditional Ukrainian clothes sign carols on the Christmas Eve at a subway station in central Kyiv, Ukraine, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Danylo Antoniuk) Christians attend prayer on Christmas Eve, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025, at St. Mary Cathedral in Yangon, Myanmar. (AP Photo/Thein Zaw) Catholic clergy walk in procession next to the Church of the Nativity, traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, on Christmas Eve, in the West Bank city of Bethlehem, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Mahmoud Illean) Latin Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the top Catholic clergyman in the Holy Land, is received by local community while crossing an Israeli military checkpoint from Jerusalem ahead of celebrations at the Church of the Nativity, traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, on Christmas Eve, in the West Bank city of Bethlehem, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Mahmoud Illean) People hold electric candles as they sing during a Christmas Eve service at Indonesia Arena stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) Ukrainian servicemen attend a parade on Orthodox Christmas eve in downtown Lviv, Ukraine, on Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Mykola Tys) Wearing Santa Claus costumes, children watch the 40th annual Christmas parade heading towards the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth, Israel, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit) A man walks past an illuminated church on the eve of Christmas in Ahmedabad, India, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Ajit Solanki) Children celebrate Christmas Eve in the southern Lebanese border village of Alma al-Shaab, near the Israeli border, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Mohammed Zaatari) A piece of meat is thrown to the buyer in the crowd during the annual Christmas Eve meat auction at Smithfield Market in London, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth) Related Articles- Today in History: December 25, Northwest Airlines passengers foil underwear bomber
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