Hello! This is September 9, 2025.

Senate Honors Minneapolis Church Shooting Victims With Resolution

The Senate unanimously passed a resolution honoring victims and survivors of the Annunciation Church shooting in Minneapolis. The resolution was introduced by Minnesota Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith. Two children were killed and 23 others injured when a gunman opened fire during morning Mass through stained glass windows. The victims were 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski. Authorities are investigating the attack as a hate crime targeting Catholics committed by 23-year-old Robin Westman.

House Lawmakers Plan First China Visit Since 2019

A bipartisan House delegation will visit China later this month, marking the first official congressional trip since 2019. The visit is organized by Rep. Adam Smith, ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, who says opening dialogue with China is important despite tensions. The delegation will also stop in Cambodia but not Taiwan. This comes amid ongoing US-China trade disputes, with tariffs currently at about 30% on Chinese goods after reaching peaks of 145% earlier this year.

NYPD Hunts Armed Ex-Con In Queens Double Murder

New York police are searching for 42-year-old Jamel McGriff, wanted for killing an elderly Queens couple found burned to death in their home. Frank and Maureen Olton, ages 76 and 77, were discovered Monday after McGriff allegedly talked his way inside claiming he needed to charge his phone. The husband was stabbed and tied to a basement pole before the house was set on fire. McGriff has a lengthy criminal record including 16 years in prison and was on parole when the murders occurred.

Four Ultra-High Yield Stocks Could Soar On Fed Cuts

Investment analysts suggest a 50 basis point Federal Reserve rate cut could drive demand for ultra-high yielding dividend stocks. Four companies offering yields above 8% include Ares Capital at 8.60%, Plains All American Pipeline at 8.36%, Starwood Property Trust at 9.32%, and Westlake Chemical Partners. These business development companies, pipeline operators, and REITs could benefit significantly from lower interest rates. All four stocks have received buy ratings from major Wall Street firms with solid dividend coverage ratios.

Median US Household Income Barely Rises To $83,730

The Census Bureau reported median US household income increased just 1.3% to $83,730 in 2024, essentially matching 2019 levels before the pandemic. This shows how inflation eroded Americans' purchasing power despite wage gains. Higher-income households saw bigger increases, with the richest 10% gaining 4.2% while the poorest gained only 2.2%. Asian and Hispanic households reported solid gains, but women's earnings barely rose while men's increased 3.7%, widening the gender wage gap for the second straight year.

Heart Surgeon Recommends 80/20 Rule For Cardiac Health

Cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Jeremy London suggests following an 80/20 eating approach for optimal heart health. This means eating whole foods 80% of the time while allowing flexibility for the remaining 20%. London emphasizes staying hydrated, limiting alcohol consumption, and being mindful of food choices. He notes that eggs, once considered harmful for cholesterol, are now recognized as a nutritious protein source when eaten in moderation. The approach focuses on balance rather than strict restrictions for sustainable heart-healthy eating.

Late Breakfast Linked To Higher Death Risk

A 20-year study of nearly 3,000 UK adults found that eating breakfast later in the morning increases risks of depression, fatigue, sleep problems, and death. Researchers at Mass General Brigham discovered that as people age, they tend to eat both breakfast and dinner later, which narrows their eating window. The study suggests meal timing could serve as an early health warning sign. Experts recommend eating breakfast between 7-8 AM with 25-30 grams of protein for optimal health outcomes.