Jurors Convict Shamell Joyner on 13 Counts After Hidden Evidence Emerges A federal jury in Washington, D.C., convicted Shamell Naquan Joyner on 13 counts of armed robbery, carjacking, and other crimes after jurors discovered undisclosed physical evidence during their deliberations. The trial, which spanned a month, concluded with a partial verdict as jurors could not reach a unanimous decision on all charges. The case drew attention due to the unexpected findings of hidden items, including a Chinese yuan and a powdery substance, which were not initially part of the prosecution’s evidence. The trial centered on Joyner’s alleged involvement in a series of robberies and carjackings in central Washington, Maryland, and northern Virginia during the spring of 2023. Prosecutors accused him of participating in 10 incidents, including armed robberies of 7-Eleven stores, gas stations, and other retail businesses. One of the key pieces of evidence was a stolen wallet containing Chinese yuan, which the prosecution claimed was taken during a robbery. The currency was reportedly brought back by the owner from an overseas study trip. During jury deliberations, jurors uncovered items that had not been disclosed to prosecutors, defense attorneys, or law enforcement. Among the findings was a Chinese yuan found in the pocket of a sweatshirt and a folded sheet of paper containing a white powdery substance, which the court and prosecution believed resembled drugs. These items were discovered in a stolen Toyota, which investigators believed had been used by the assailant during two robberies on May 2, 2023. The FBI did not explain why agents had failed to notice the currency and powder during their initial examination of the physical evidence.#fbi #washington_d_c #shamell_naquan_joyner #federal_jury #judge_rudolph_contreras
Chick-fil-A Loyalty Account Breach: Details Emerge Chick-fil-A disclosed a security breach affecting certain customers’ loyalty accounts, revealing that hackers accessed its website and mobile app between June 17 and June 19. The company confirmed the incident on Monday, stating it discovered suspicious login activity linked to its Chick-fil-A One Loyalty program. Investigators later determined, on July 13, that personal account data may have been compromised. The breach involved customers’ names, addresses, last four digits of credit or debit card numbers, phone numbers, and email addresses. The Atlanta-based fast food chain informed customers via a letter that hackers exploited account credentials obtained from a third-party source. While the company did not specify the identity of the third-party provider, it emphasized that account balances had been restored. However, the exact number of affected customers remained undisclosed. The breach notification highlighted Washington, D.C., and nine other states—including North Carolina, New Mexico, Oregon, and New York—as regions where residents should take steps to protect against potential identity theft or fraud. Chick-fil-A stated it took “immediate” action to secure and restore impacted accounts, including direct communication with affected customers. A spokesperson reiterated the company’s commitment to maintaining customer trust, apologizing for any inconvenience caused. Affected customers were advised to update their passwords with strong, unique combinations and refer to a provided guide for monitoring personal information. Those with questions were directed to contact Chick-fil-A’s toll-free number at 888-201-5329.#north_carolina #washington_d_c #new_mexico #chickfila #massachusetts_office_of_consumer_affairs
Trump Rants Again About NY Times Reporters’ Biography After Maggie Haberman Calls His Health ‘A Black Box’ President Donald Trump launched another fiery attack on two New York Times reporters, Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan, following their criticism of his health. In a lengthy social media post, Trump denounced their recent book, Regime Change: Inside the Imperial Presidency of Donald Trump, calling it “a joke” and claiming 90 percent of its content was “fake news.” The outburst came hours after Haberman, during an appearance on MSNOW’s The Weekend, described Trump’s health as “a black box inside that administration,” stating that she and Swan had failed to fully investigate his medical status. Trump, 80, used the opportunity to boast about his recent physical examination at Walter Reed military hospital and his performance on a cognitive test. He claimed to have “aced” the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, a tool used to detect dementia or cognitive decline, and mocked Haberman and Swan for allegedly failing to achieve even 50 percent of the questions correctly. “Few people in Washington, D.C., could do so, including Maggot and her flunky associate, Jonathan Swan,” he said, using his derogatory nickname for Haberman. He also reiterated his belief that a “true story” about him would be “boring” but “loaded with lots of SUCCESS.” Haberman and Swan responded by highlighting the book’s commercial success. Swan shared a screenshot of the book’s position on Amazon’s bestseller list, noting it had reached number one. “Many people disagree with the president’s assessment. Thanks to you all for reading,” he quipped. Haberman, in a separate post, thanked readers for engaging with the book and mentioned that hardcover editions were being restocked.#donald_trump #washington_d_c #maggie_haberman #jonathan_swan #simon_schuster
Mitch McConnell’s Health Mystery Intensifies as Home Renovations Spark Speculation A man carrying carpet samples and flooring materials was spotted by TMZ leaving the Washington, D.C., home of U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell this week, adding another layer of intrigue to the ongoing mystery surrounding his health. The sighting, reported on Friday, has reignited public speculation about the senator’s condition, with many questioning whether the renovations are connected to his recent medical emergency or unrelated to his health. According to TMZ, the man was seen carrying an array of carpet samples in shades of white, blue, and grey, and was also reportedly discussing the possibility of installing new tiles. The timing of the activity has raised questions, as McConnell has remained hospitalized for nearly four weeks following a June 14 incident in which first responders found him unconscious and required CPR. His family and aides have consistently refused to comment on his condition, leaving the public to speculate about the purpose of the renovations. Some theories suggest the work may be part of long-planned home improvements, while others question whether the activity is linked to the medical emergency or preparations for the sale of the property. McConnell, who announced he will not seek re-election, has not provided details about his health, and his wife, Elaine Chao, a former U.S. transportation secretary, has also remained silent. Chao was in China at the time of the June 14 incident and did not immediately return to Washington, later stating there was no urgent need to cut short her trip. Her absence has further complicated the narrative, as her meetings with senior Chinese officials—details of which remain scarce—have drawn additional scrutiny.#daily_beast #washington_d_c #mitch_mcconnell #elaine_chao #tmz
A Neighbor Witnesses McConnell's Hospitalization Amid Medical Emergency A neighbor of U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell described to CNN the chaotic scene outside his Washington, D.C., home on June 14, when emergency responders arrived at around 8:30 a.m. to address what appeared to be a critical medical situation. The witness reported that two ambulances, a fire truck, and Capitol Police officers cordoned off the entire street, creating a tense atmosphere for nearby residents. When the neighbor inquired about the circumstances, officers initially stated there had been a “medical emergency,” though they refused to confirm whether McConnell was involved. The neighbor later learned from another eyewitness that the individual on the stretcher was McConnell, who was not wearing an oxygen mask. The neighbor recounted that while they did not see McConnell’s face, others on the block did. One neighbor reportedly identified him by sight, confirming his identity as the senator. The witness described McConnell’s condition as alarming, noting that his feet were uncovered and appeared to be “not moving” during the scene. Despite the apparent severity of the situation, the neighbor observed that emergency responders did not seem overly panicked, with sirens turned off as the vehicles departed the scene. An EMS audio recording, shared by an independent journalist, provided additional details about the incident. The recording indicated that emergency personnel were called to McConnell’s home for an “unconscious” individual, with someone on the scene stating, “CPR in progress.” The audio suggested the responders were treating what appeared to be a cardiac arrest. However, the neighbor noted that the emergency teams acted swiftly but without the urgency typically associated with such emergencies.#john_thune #washington_d_c #mitch_mcconnell #capitol_police #ems_audio_recording
Warren Buffett's $7 Tax Bill as a Teenage Paperboy Warren Buffett, the billionaire investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, filed his first federal tax return in 1944 at the age of 14. That year, he earned $592.50 from delivering newspapers in Washington, D.C., and additional income from investments, which totaled $228 in interest and dividends. Despite his modest earnings, Buffett paid just $7 in federal taxes, a figure that starkly contrasts with the $26.8 billion in taxes his company paid to the U.S. government in 2024, a record for any single year. The 1944 tax return offers a rare glimpse into Buffett’s early life and financial habits. At the time, the IRS required U.S. citizens earning $500 or more to file a return, and Buffett complied. His total income for the year was $592.50, but he itemized deductions for business expenses, including $10 for watch repair and $35 for bicycle costs. These deductions reduced his taxable income, resulting in the minimal tax liability. The document underscores his early understanding of financial management and cost accounting, traits that would later define his career as an investor. Buffett’s financial journey began with his paper route, where he earned $364, and his investments, which generated $228. His father, Howard Buffett, a stockbroker and future four-term U.S. congressman, played a pivotal role in shaping his interest in business and markets. Howard’s career in finance and politics provided Warren with early exposure to economic principles and the complexities of taxation, which would influence his later views on the subject. The contrast between Buffett’s teenage tax bill and Berkshire Hathaway’s 2024 payment highlights the dramatic evolution of his financial status.#washington_d_c #berkshire_hathaway #warren_buffett #tax_policy #howard_buffett
Rainy Easter Sunday and Cooler Week Ahead in DC Easter Sunday will bring a shift in weather conditions for Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia, with rain moving in by mid-morning and temperatures dropping significantly. The National Weather Service has issued a forecast highlighting the transition from warm, dry conditions to a wetter, windier day as a strong cold front moves through the region. While the day will start with dry weather, particularly after Saturday’s record-breaking high of 85 degrees, rain is expected to arrive by mid-morning, bringing steady showers that will last until late afternoon. Drier conditions will return in the late afternoon and early evening, but the cold front will leave a lasting impact on temperatures and wind patterns. The cold front will bring cooler air, with temperatures falling throughout the afternoon and evening. Wind speeds will also increase, with gusts reaching up to 20 to 30 miles per hour. This shift will result in a noticeable drop in temperatures, with overnight lows expected to fall into the 30s and 40s. The cooler air will persist through the first half of the workweek, particularly in the mornings, but a return to warmer temperatures is anticipated by the weekend. The forecast for the following days shows a mix of sunny and partly cloudy conditions, with temperatures gradually rising as the week progresses. Monday will feature mostly sunny skies with high temperatures in the low 60s. Tuesday is expected to be similarly mild, with mostly sunny conditions and high temperatures in the low to mid-50s. A period of dry, sunny weather with above-average temperatures will return just in time for the weekend, providing a contrast to the cooler week ahead.#national_weather_service #maryland #washington_d_c #storm_team4 #northern_virginia
Gas Prices Vary by State: Factors Behind the Differences Gas prices across the United States fluctuate significantly from one state to another, with drivers often noticing stark differences at the pump. These variations are influenced by a combination of factors, including state and local taxes, the distance from oil supply sources, environmental regulations, and market dynamics. As of April 2, 2026, the national average gas price had risen to $4.08 per gallon, up from $3.98 the previous week and $3.00 in early March. This increase has prompted widespread curiosity about the reasons behind the price disparities. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) identifies several key factors contributing to regional differences in gas prices. One primary reason is the variation in state and local gas taxes. While the federal government imposes a uniform tax of 18.4 cents per gallon since 1993, states add their own levies, which can significantly impact the final price. For example, California, which has the highest state gas tax at 71 cents per gallon, saw an average price of $5.89 per gallon on April 2, the most expensive in the nation. Conversely, Oklahoma, with a state tax of 48 cents per gallon, had the lowest average price at $3.27 per gallon. Transportation costs also play a major role in price variations. The EIA notes that gas prices tend to be higher in regions farther from oil production centers, as shipping fuel to these areas increases expenses. Additionally, supply disruptions—such as refinery shutdowns or geopolitical tensions—can lead to bidding wars for available gasoline, driving up prices. Retail competition further influences costs, with areas having fewer gas stations often experiencing higher prices due to reduced market saturation.#california #oklahoma #new_york #washington_d_c #us_energy_information_administration
Bruce Springsteen's 'Land of Hope and Dreams' American Tour Announced Bruce Springsteen is set to embark on his highly anticipated "Land of Hope and Dreams" American Tour, with a series of dates spanning from March 31 to May 27, 2026. The tour will take him from Minneapolis to Washington, D.C., marking a significant return to the road for the iconic musician. Fans across the country are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the full itinerary, which includes stops in major cities and smaller towns, reflecting Springsteen’s tradition of connecting with audiences nationwide. The E Street Band, Springsteen’s long-standing ensemble, will accompany him throughout the tour, bringing their signature energy and musical prowess to each performance. Known for their dynamic live shows, the band has been a cornerstone of Springsteen’s career, and their presence is expected to elevate the tour experience for fans. The tour also features a special guest appearance by Tom Morello, the renowned guitarist and activist best known for his work with Rage Against the Machine. Morello’s involvement adds an exciting dimension to the tour, blending Springsteen’s rock anthems with Morello’s distinctive style and political commentary. The tour announcement comes after a series of updates detailing the logistics of the event. Live dates have been confirmed for March 23, 2026, with the tour officially launching in Minneapolis on March 31. The final date is set for May 27 in Washington, D.C., concluding a six-week journey that promises to be a celebration of Springsteen’s enduring legacy. Fans are encouraged to secure tickets early, as the tour is expected to sell out quickly given the artist’s popularity and the demand for live music experiences.#washington_d_c #bruce_springsteen #minneapolis #e_street_band #tom_morello
Severe Weather Threat Over, Big Temperature Drop Thursday The severe weather threat has passed for Washington, D.C., as a significant temperature drop is expected to take effect on Thursday. After several days of record-breaking warmth, with highs in the mid-80s, the region will experience a dramatic cooldown. Wind chills are projected to drop into the 20s and 30s by Wednesday night, marking a sharp contrast to the recent heatwave. A cold front is set to move through the area on Thursday, bringing rain showers during the morning commute and transitioning to wet snow in the afternoon. While snowfall is possible, surface temperatures remain too warm for significant accumulation. The temperature plunge will be most noticeable between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m., with readings falling from the 50s into the 30s and 40s. Gusts of up to 40 mph will accompany the drop, further lowering wind chills to the 20s and 30s. Friday’s temperatures will return to more seasonable levels, with highs in the mid-50s. However, gusty winds of up to 40 mph will persist. The weekend forecast shows breezy conditions on Saturday, with winds gradually subsiding by Sunday. Cloud cover will increase, but overall, the weather will remain mild. A new cold front is expected to move through the region on Monday, pushing highs into the 40s by Tuesday and Wednesday. This will bring the area’s average high of mid-50s back into alignment with typical seasonal patterns. The recent warmth has also accelerated the cherry blossom season, with the flowers now in Stage 1 of bloom. The National Weather Service has confirmed that the severe weather threat has passed, and the focus will shift to the cooling trend. Residents are advised to prepare for the temperature drop, especially with the combination of rain, snow, and strong winds.#national_weather_service #cold_front #washington_d_c #storm_team4 #cherry_blossom_season
Powerball Jackpot Winner Claims $251 Million Prize A Powerball jackpot winner in Arkansas claimed the $251 million prize after the March 2 drawing, matching all five numbers and the Powerball. According to Powerball's website, the winner can choose between annuitized payments over time or a lump-sum payout of $118 million. As of now, no one has officially claimed the prize. The Powerball jackpot has been won nearly 200 times since the game began in 1992. Currently, 45 U.S. states, including Puerto Rico, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, participate in the lottery. However, five states—Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada, and Utah—opt out of the game. Some states have produced more winners than others. Indiana, Missouri, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin rank among the top five for the most Powerball winners, based on previous reports. The winning numbers for the March 2 drawing were 2, 17, 18, 38, 62, with the Powerball number 20. The Power Play multiplier was set at 2x, which increases non-jackpot prizes. While the Arkansas winner took the top prize, another player in Puerto Rico won the Match 5 + Power Play prize of $2 million. The jackpot has reset to $20 million ahead of the next drawing, scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, at 11 p.m. ET. Powerball drawings occur on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. If no one matches all numbers, the prize rolls over, increasing for subsequent draws. Players do not need to be U.S. citizens or residents to participate. Anyone visiting one of the 45 participating states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands can buy a ticket, provided they meet the legal age requirement, typically 18 years old, and purchase from a licensed retailer. To play, players select six numbers: five white balls numbered 1 through 69 and one red Powerball numbered 1 through 26.#arkansas #puerto_rico #powerball #washington_d_c #march_2
