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Manhunt Underway After Fatal Shooting at LDS Church Parking Lot in Salt Lake City At approximately 7:36 PM on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, gunfire erupted in the parking lot of an LDS meetinghouse located near 660 North Redwood Road in the Rose Park neighborhood. Authorities report that an altercation occurred outside while nearly 200 people were inside the chapel for a funeral service. Witnesses described hearing several loud gunshots that "shook the whole place," followed by chaotic scenes as attendees and nearby residents rushed to help those wounded in the parking lot.Casualties and Victim InformationSalt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd confirmed that two adults were killed in the attack and at least six others were injured. Of the survivors, three were transported to local hospitals in critical condition. Police noted that some victims were taken to medical facilities via private vehicles before emergency responders arrived. All victims identified so far are adults, and while their names have not been released, the congregation is known to primarily serve the local Tongan community.Manhunt for Suspects and Vehicle LeadsAs of Thursday morning, January 8, no suspects are in custody, and a massive manhunt is underway. Police are searching for at least one suspect vehicle that was last seen traveling north on Redwood Road toward the Jordan River. While the specific description of the vehicle remains vague, investigators are reviewing license plate readers and surveillance footage from nearby businesses. Two individuals were briefly detained for questioning on Wednesday night but were not immediately identified as suspects.Motive and Community ResponseChief Redd stated that while the investigation is in its early stages, police do not believe this was a targeted attack against a religion, nor do they believe it was random. The department's gang unit is assisting with the case to determine if the altercation was related to local disputes. Mayor Erin Mendenhall expressed her heartbreak, stating that such violence should never happen outside a "celebration of life." The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints released a statement expressing deep concern and offering prayers for all those impacted by the tragedy.
Hawaii Snow Update 2026 10 Inches of Snow Blankets Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa Believe it or not, it snows in Hawaii every single year. While most people associate the islands with 80°F beaches, the summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are nearly 14,000 feet high, which is comparable to peaks in the Colorado Rockies. At these altitudes, temperatures frequently drop below freezing, and winter storms provide the moisture necessary for snow. On average, these peaks see snow multiple times throughout the winter months, typically between October and April.Where Exactly Does the Snow FallSnow is almost exclusively limited to the three highest volcanic peaks in the state. Mauna Kea (13,803 ft) and Mauna Loa (13,678 ft) on the Big Island are the most frequent recipients, often staying snow capped for several days or weeks. Haleakalā on Maui (10,023 ft) also receives snow, but much less frequently usually only once every two to three years. It is physically impossible for it to snow at sea level in Hawaii; the record low in Honolulu is a mild 52°F.What Causes These Tropical BlizzardsThe primary driver of heavy Hawaiian snow is a weather phenomenon called a Kona Low. This is a seasonal low pressure system that develops during the winter when the typical trade winds are disrupted. These storms pull cold, moist air from the north and push it up the mountain slopes, where it freezes into snow. The most recent storm on January 5-6, 2026, was a classic Kona Low that brought pōhaku hau (snow rock) and dangerous ice to the summits.The Impact of a Hawaii SnowstormWhen it snows in Hawaii, the impact is felt mostly by scientists and tourists. The access roads to the summits, which house some of the worlds most powerful telescopes, are often closed due to whiteout conditions and rime ice. Interestingly, locals sometimes drive up with pickup trucks after a storm to fill the truck beds with snow and bring it down to the coast for children to play with a true "only in Hawaii" experience where you can play with snow and go surfing on the same day.
From the Subway to City Hall: Inside Zohran Mamdani’s Historic New Year’s Inauguration In a move that signaled his administration’s focus on the working class and the city's infrastructure, Mamdani chose to take his official oath of office in a semi private ceremony at 12:01 a.m. inside the abandoned Old City Hall subway station. The decommissioned station, known for its stunning Romanesque Revival architecture and vaulted tile ceilings, served as what Mamdani called a "testament to the vitality and legacy of our public transit." Administered by New York State Attorney General Letitia James, Mamdani placed his hand on a historic Quran specifically the Schomburg Quran on loan from the New York Public Library symbolizing a bridge between his faith and the city’s storied history. Surrounded by his wife, artist Rama Duwaji, and close family, the new mayor’s first words were a tribute to the "essential" New Yorkers who keep the city running.The Public Celebration: A Ticker Tape WelcomeWhile the midnight ceremony was intimate, the public inauguration at 1:00 p.m. on New Year's Day was a massive spectacle. Thousands of New Yorkers gathered along the "Canyon of Heroes" on Broadway for a public block party that stretched from Liberty Street to Murray Street. The public oath was administered by U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, a longtime political mentor of Mamdani. The event featured a keynote address by U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, who praised Mamdani’s "unapologetic" commitment to affordability. The atmosphere was one of palpable optimism, with interfaith prayers and performances reflecting the diverse tapestry of the five boroughs.A Bold First Day AgendaMayor Mamdani did not wait for the party to end to begin governing. Within hours of being sworn in, he announced his first major executive actions and cabinet appointments: Department of Transportation: He named Mike Flynn as the new DOT Commissioner, with an immediate mandate to expand the "Free Bus" pilot program citywide. Rent Freeze: True to his campaign promise, Mamdani signed an executive memorandum directing the Rent Guidelines Board to implement an immediate freeze on all rent stabilized apartments for the upcoming year. City Run Grocery Stores: He announced the first site for a municipal grocery store in a "food desert" in the South Bronx, aimed at lowering the cost of essential goods.The "Trump Proof" StrategyThe inauguration comes at a time of significant tension between City Hall and the White House. While Mamdani and President Donald Trump held a surprisingly cordi
Beyond the Ball Drop: How Nashville’s Big Bash Became America’s Favorite Way to Ring in 2026 Nashville’s Big Bash is unique because it is one of the few massive, star studded New Year's Eve events that is free and open to the public. On December 31, 2025, gates at the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park opened at 5:30 p.m. CT, welcoming a crowd that traditionally exceeds 200,000 people.The park served as the primary hub for a five hour televised special, but it offered much more for those in attendance. From local food trucks serving "Music City" favorites to the "Countdown Square" where fans entered to win signed Gibson guitars, the atmosphere was a mix of a high energy music festival and a cozy community gathering.The 2026 Star Studded LineupThe lineup for the 2025–2026 transition was arguably the strongest in the event's history. Headlined by Lainey Wilson, Jason Aldean, and Bailey Zimmerman, the show featured artists who collectively boast over 40 No. 1 hits. Lainey Wilson: Fresh off her CMA Entertainer of the Year win, Wilson brought her "Bell Bottom Country" flair to the stage, cementing her status as the current queen of country music. Jason Aldean: A Nashville veteran, Aldean performed hits from his career spanning "30 Number Ones" album. Bailey Zimmerman: Representing country’s next generation, Zimmerman’s high energy set was a favorite among younger fans. Special Guests: The night featured a soulful turn with gospel legend CeCe Winans and the world renowned Fisk Jubilee Singers, proving that Nashville’s musical roots go far beyond just country.The Hosting Duo: Chaos and CountryThe 2026 broadcast was hosted by an unlikely but effective pair: country rock star HARDY and comedian/actor Bert Kreischer. Their chemistry provided a blend of musical credibility and unpredictable humor. While HARDY focused on the performances (and delivered a blistering set of his own), Kreischer kept the energy high with his signature brand of comedy, ensuring the five hour broadcast never felt stagnant.The Iconic Midnight Moment: The Music Note DropWhile New York has its ball, Nashville has its Music Note. Standing on a massive 138 foot tower, the red Music Note is a 16-foot tall structure made of aluminum and acrylic, embedded with over 28,000 LED pixels. As the countdown hit zero, the note descended, triggering a spectacular 90 second fireworks display from the tower itself, followed by a larger aerial display over Capitol Hill. This moment symbolizes the city's identity as "Music City" and has become a bucket list experience for travel enthusiasts
Emergency Christmas Shopping: The Best Stores and Services for Instant Gifts The holiday season is a whirlwind of joy, but even the most organized planners can find themselves staring at a half empty fridge or a missing gift on December 24th. Whether you forgot the cranberry sauce for the turkey or realized you need one more meaningful present for a surprise guest, the pressure is on. Fortunately, the 2025 retail landscape is more accommodating than ever for the eleventh-hour shopper. Here is your comprehensive roadmap on where to shop for your last-minute Christmas needs.Major Retailers and Christmas Eve HoursFor those who need physical goods electronics, toys, or clothing big box retailers are your primary destination. However, the most important rule of last-minute shopping is to go early. On Christmas Eve, most major chains operate on a "reduced hours" schedule to allow their employees time with their families.Target: A favorite for stylish home goods and toys, Target typically remains open until 8:00 PM on Christmas Eve. They often offer "Drive Up" services until the late afternoon, which can save you from navigating the crowded aisles.Walmart: For everything from wrapping paper to power tools, Walmart is a reliable pillar. Most locations close their doors at 6:00 PM on December 24th.Best Buy: If you need a last-minute tech gadget or a pair of headphones, Best Buy usually operates from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM.Department Stores: Places like Macy’s and JCPenney often stay open until 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM, making them ideal for last minute fragrance sets or winter apparel.Grocery Stores: Finishing the FeastNothing causes panic quite like realizing you are missing a key ingredient for Christmas dinner. Most grocery chains remain open on Christmas Eve, but their closing times vary significantly.Whole Foods & Wegmans: Expect these high end grocers to close around 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM. They are excellent for pre-made sides and high-quality proteins.Kroger & Publix: These regional giants typically close between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM.Aldi: Known for its efficiency, Aldi often closes earlier than others, sometimes as early as 4:00 PM.If you find yourself needing items on Christmas Day, your options are much slimmer. Most major grocery stores are closed. Your best bet will be convenience stores like 7 Eleven, Wawa, or Sheetz, which often operate 24/7 and carry basics like milk, eggs, and butter.Pharmacies: The Hidden HeroesDrugstores like CVS and Walgreens are the "secret weapons" of the last-minute shopper. Many locations stay open on Christmas D
Investigating the specific details of the motorcycle collision involving Blake Mitchell and a box truck in Oxnard The online community and adult entertainment industry are mourning the sudden loss of Lane V. Rogers, widely known to his fans as Blake Mitchell. Rogers tragically passed away at the age of 31 following a fatal motorcycle accident in Southern California on Monday afternoon. According to reports from the Ventura County Medical Examiner, the accident occurred near Oxnard shortly before 4 p.m. local time. Rogers was riding his motorcycle when he collided with a box truck on a stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway. Authorities confirmed that he died at the scene from blunt force trauma, and the death has been officially ruled as accidental.The impact of his death has been felt deeply by his massive following of over 400,000 Instagram followers and his extensive subscriber base on OnlyFans. Rogers first rose to prominence in the mid 2010s under his stage name and eventually became one of the most recognizable figures in the LGBTQ+ adult film space. In recent years, he transitioned from studio work to becoming an independent creator, which allowed him to have more control over his content and brand. Fans and colleagues have taken to social media to share their grief, describing him as a kind hearted individual who was often seen as a mentor to newer creators in the digital space.Reactions from the family of Lane V. Rogers highlight a state of profound shock and devastation. A family member shared that they are at an absolute loss for words following the sudden tragedy. The driver of the box truck involved in the collision remained at the scene and has been cooperating with the California Highway Patrol during their ongoing investigation. While the cause of the crash is still being examined, officials have not yet indicated if factors like speed or intoxicants played a role. The community has responded by sharing his final social media posts, which included a lighthearted video reflecting on his life and career just one week prior to the accident.The strategy for Rogers in the months leading up to his death involved a shift toward more authentic self expression. He had begun using his real name more frequently and spoke openly about mental health, bisexual visibility, and his personal journey from a small town in Kentucky to global fame. This openness helped him build a connection with his audience that went beyond his work as a performer. Many of his followers noted that his transparency about the challenges of fame and identity made him a relatable figure. His l
Determining the specific eligibility requirements for the warrior dividend among active duty and reserve personnel President Donald Trump recently delivered a prime time address to the nation to announce a new financial initiative called the warrior dividend. During his speech on Wednesday night, the President revealed that more than 1.45 million military service members will receive a one time payment of $1,776. This specific dollar amount was chosen to honor the year of the founding of the United States. Trump stated that the funds for these payments are being drawn from revenue generated by recent trade tariffs and a major tax bill passed earlier in the year. He emphasized that the checks are already being processed and are expected to arrive before Christmas.The impact of this announcement is significant for eligible personnel, specifically active duty service members and certain reservists. To qualify for the payment, service members must be at the rank of O 6 or below and have been on active duty as of November 30, 2025. Reservists are eligible if they have been on active duty orders for at least 31 days. This move is seen as a way to provide direct financial relief to military families who are dealing with the high costs of living and holiday expenses. The administration has clarified that the dividend is intended to recognize the sacrifices made by those in uniform.Reactions to the warrior dividend have been mixed among political leaders and economic experts. Supporters of the President praise the move as a well deserved bonus for the military and a creative use of tariff revenue. They argue that it provides a necessary boost to the economy and shows strong support for the armed forces. However, critics and some members of Congress have raised questions about the legality of the funding source. Some lawmakers suggest that an expenditure of this size, totaling roughly $2.6 billion, typically requires specific approval from the legislative branch rather than a direct executive order.The strategy behind the timing of the announcement appears to be focused on addressing public concerns regarding inflation and the economy. By providing a tangible benefit to a large group of citizens, the administration is attempting to demonstrate the positive results of its trade policies. Government agencies are now working to ensure the direct bank transfers are completed within the next week. Officials have noted that while the payment is a one time event, it represents a broader effort to prioritize the financial well being of those serving in the military.Looking ahead, the fu
Examining the Significant "Blind Spot" in Brown University’s Surveillance System That Allowed the Gunman to Escape The intensive search for the gunman responsible for the December 13, 2025, mass shooting at Brown University has entered its fifth day on Wednesday, December 17. Authorities have released a new, "enhanced" video timeline of the suspect, hoping to break the deadlock in a case that has left two students dead and nine others wounded. Despite a $50,000 reward offered by the FBI and the analysis of over 200 tips, no arrest has been made since the release of a previous person of interest on Sunday.The immediate status and summary of the investigation centers on the movement of a masked individual captured by surveillance cameras in the College Hill neighborhood. The newly released footage, described by Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez as clearer than previous clips, shows the suspect "casing" the area for approximately two hours before the 4:03 p.m. shooting. The individual is seen walking near Hope and Benevolent streets, occasionally running and abruptly changing direction when approached by others. Following the attack at the Barus & Holley engineering building, the suspect was filmed walking away from a nearby parking lot toward Hope Street.Key stats and descriptions provided by law enforcement paint a picture of a "stocky" male, approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall. In the enhanced videos, the suspect is wearing dark or brown clothing, including a jacket, a hat (possibly a black beanie), gloves, a surgical style mask, and a shoulder bag. Police confirmed the weapon used was a 9 mm handgun, with more than 40 rounds fired during a Principles of Economics review session. The victims have been identified as Ella Cook, 19, a sophomore from Alabama and vice president of the Brown College Republicans, and MukhammadAziz Umurzokov, 18, a freshman from Uzbekistan.The strategic factor complicating the search is a significant "blind spot" in the university’s surveillance network. While Brown operates over 1,200 cameras, officials admitted there is no clear footage from inside the specific classroom where the shooting occurred. This gap has forced investigators to rely heavily on private home security cameras and public assistance. Furthermore, social media has been flooded with unverified theories, most notably regarding Mustapha Kharbouch, a first year student whose profile was recently removed from the university website. Both university officials and police have stated that Kharbouch is not a suspect or person of interest, and they have warned that online "doxxin