The California State Capitol tree is lit with a ceremony held inside the Capitol Rotunda, hosted by Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom.

The Justice Department secretly obtained phone records from two members of Congress and 43 staffers – including Kash Patel, President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to lead the FBI – during sweeping leak investigations during Trump’s first term, according to a watchdog report released Tuesday.

Hundreds braved the freezing temperatures Friday evening to attend the borough’s annual tree lighting ceremony.

Tree Lighting Ceremony featured choirs, a reading from Luke, and hot cocoa, emphasizing community and holiday spirit.

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson spreads holiday cheer with the annual tree-lighting ceremony at the Arctic Warrior Chapel on JBER, Dec. 5, 2024.

Minot Air Force Base leadership and military family members turn on the lights during the tree lighting ceremony at the base on Saturday. The tree lighting was a community event held at the Northern Lights Chapel and facilitated by the chaplain corps and Minot leadership. U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Wesley Davies. Submitted Photo

Highlights of the family-friendly event include live music, photo opportunities with Santa and a Nutcracker performance.

Rancho Palos Verdes ushered in the holiday season with the annual tree lighting ceremony, roller skating, sliding and more on Friday evening, Dec. 6. An outdoor roller rink has replaced a synthetic ice skating rink at this year’s event, which runs through Sunday, Dec. 8, at the Ken Dyda Civic Center.

California State Capitol Tree lighting ceremony took place on Wednesday. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said Wednesday he’s “doing everything” he can to try to pass legislation that would enact some Social Security before Congress ushers in a new class next month.