This week’s news digest spans from cultural tributes and artistic opportunities to business strategies and technological debates, highlighting diverse developments across industries.
The gospel music community is mourning the loss of Richard Smallwood, a revered figure whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the genre. This loss underscores the enduring influence of foundational artists in shaping musical traditions. (Source: Gospel Music Association)
BizTimes – Milwaukee Business News outlines key local business stories to monitor in 2026, focusing on economic trends and regional growth opportunities. This forward-looking analysis helps businesses prepare for upcoming challenges and innovations. (Source: BizTimes – Milwaukee Business News)
An art exhibition titled ‘We Buy Souls!’ in Los Angeles explores provocative themes through contemporary installations. Such exhibitions push artistic boundaries and spark public dialogue on societal issues. (Source: See Great Art)
McDonald’s China shares its fan convention playbook, emphasizing value creation and relationship-building to engage consumers. This strategy highlights how global brands adapt to local markets through community-focused initiatives. (Source: Dao Insights)
Hip hop artist and actor Chef Sean performed a celebrity concert at Chicago’s Wintrust Arena, blending music and entertainment in a high-profile event. This showcases the crossover appeal of artists in today’s multimedia landscape. (Source: Rockford Register Star)
The Lubeznik Center for the Arts is now accepting artist applications, offering new opportunities for creative professionals to exhibit their work. Such initiatives support artistic development and cultural enrichment. (Source: wimsradio.com)
The New Indian Express argues that AI cannot truly be considered an artist, citing limitations in machine learning systems’ creative capabilities. This debate raises important questions about the nature of art and technology’s role in it. (Source: The New Indian Express)
PRINT Magazine features 13 of the best book covers for December 2025, celebrating design excellence in publishing. These selections highlight the artistic merit and marketing power of visual elements in literature. (Source: PRINT Magazine)
A Canadian marketing agency has introduced a system aimed at improving lead generation efficiency, leveraging technology to optimize business processes. This innovation reflects ongoing efforts to enhance productivity in competitive markets. (Source: Rockford Register Star)
Residents in Albany can get a free $20 Uber credit on New Year’s, promoting safe transportation during celebrations. Such offers demonstrate how companies use incentives to foster community safety and engagement. (Source: cnynews.com)
Overall, these stories illustrate a dynamic interplay between cultural expression, business innovation, and technological advancement. From honoring artistic legacies to debating AI’s creative potential, the news underscores how industries evolve through both tradition and change, with implications for community engagement and economic growth.
