Home Blog Page 402

Will McDonald’s be open on New Year’s Day 2026? What you need to know about the hours

0

play

The new year is here and whether you want a cup of coffee to cure your hangover or a burger and fries, you’ll have plenty of options this New Year’s Day.

Consumers looking to grab a bite to eat or start the new year with some retail therapy are in luck. That’s because most national grocery stores and retail chains will be open on New Year’s Day this year, as will many restaurant chains. Banks, post offices, and stock markets are closed on public holidays.

McDonald’s is one of many chain stores opening on January 1, a company spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY. However, the fast-food chain’s hours vary by location, so the company recommends checking with local restaurants for holiday hours.

You can find your nearest McDonald’s using the company’s store locator.

What restaurants are open on New Year’s Day?

Click here for a list of restaurants scheduled to hold events. open Business hours are listed in the provider’s list. If a chain store does not have business hours listed, these are normal business hours.

Business hours for many restaurant chains vary by location, so we recommend checking online or calling your local location to confirm hours.

  • mcdonalds
  • starbucks
  • dunkin
  • Chick-fil-A: Some stores may have reduced hours
  • chipotle pepper
  • Popeye
  • bojangles
  • hippopotamus
  • burger king
  • whataburger
  • Shake Shack: Some locations may have reduced hours.
  • Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburger
  • zaxby’s
  • wendy’s
  • subway
  • fire department submarine
  • Hardy’s
  • Carl’s Jr.
  • panera bread
  • cracker barrel
  • ihop
  • waffle house
  • krispy kreme
  • Outback Steakhouse
  • Carraba’s Italian Grill
  • bonefish grill
  • texas roadhouse
  • apple bees
  • hooters
  • red lobster
  • Maggiano’s: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Fogo de Chao: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Chili’s
  • First viewing

Gabe Hauari is USA TODAY’s national trends news reporter. You can follow him at X @gabehauari Or email Gdhauari@gannett.com.

Jennifer Lopez (56) slams haters, saying she’s “always naked”

0

play

Jennifer Lopez plans to never allow negativity from social media until 2026. And certainly not now, as I begin my Las Vegas residency.

The 56-year-old pop star, who kicked off her “Jennifer Lopez: Up All Night Live in Las Vegas” residency at the Coliseum at Caesars Palace on Dec. 30, took time on the show’s opening night to directly address those who criticized her wardrobe online. During her speech, captured on TikTok, Lopez addressed the crowd wearing a miniskirt with sequin fringes.

“Thank God we’ve been doing this for so many years,” Lopez said of social media. “A lot of it can be ignored. It really doesn’t mean anything. I tell my kids that all the time. But it might be the saddest, meanest place on earth.” “But it was funny. I laugh sometimes too, because they say funny things too.”

So, what is this “interesting thing”? Mr. Lopez gave several examples.

“Why does she always smile with her mouth open when taking pictures?” … “Why does she always dress like that?” “Why doesn’t she dress for her age?” Lopez said. “Why is she always naked?”

Regarding that last question, Lopez has a simple answer. “If you had this booty, you’d be naked too,” she exclaimed, before turning and trotting to the back of the stage, apparently changing quickly.

In a 2018 interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Lopez shared the health and mindfulness practices she uses to keep herself feeling and looking youthful.

“Affirmation is so important,” she told the outlet. “I am youthful and timeless. I tell myself every day, several times a day…Age is all in my mind. Look at Jane Fonda.”

She also told the magazine that she has become kinder to herself as she gets older. “When I was younger, I spent a lot of time half-happy and half-unhappy,” she said. “I know who I am and what I want. I also know my strengths and weaknesses. It took me a long time to be able to say good things about myself. I’m glad I can do it now.”

Contributor: Andrea Mandel, USA TODAY

Will your gym be open on New Year’s Day 2026? Learn more about Gold, Planet Fitness

0

play

The new year starts this week. So as the calendar switches from 2025 to 2026, people will start making New Year’s resolutions.

Some gyms will close permanently on January 1st, while others may open with modified hours. If you’re looking to start your fitness journey in 2026, the best way to find out if your gym is open is to call ahead or check their website before heading out.

Here’s what you need to know about major gym chains like Planet Fitness, YMCA, and Orangetheory Fitness and whether they’ll be open this Christmas.

When is New Year’s Day in 2026?

This year’s New Year’s Day is Thursday, January 1st.

Is Gold’s Gym open on New Year’s Day?

Gold’s Gym locations vary by store. The best way to find out if your local Gold’s Gym is open on New Year’s Day is to contact the gym or check their hours here.

Is Planet Fitness open on New Year’s Day?

Planet Fitness stores are independently owned and operated by individual franchise owners, so business hours vary by store, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY. You can find a location near you and check opening hours here.

Is Orange Theory Fitness open on New Year’s Day?

Many Orangetheory studios may be open on a modified schedule on New Year’s Day, a company spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY.

The best way to check times is to contact your local studio for the schedule for each class. You can search for a studio near you here.

Is the YMCA open on New Year’s Day?

YMCA business hours vary by location because each location operates independently, a spokesperson told USA TODAY. The best way to find out if your local YMCA is open or closed on January 1st is to call or check online before your visit.

Is Anytime Fitness open on New Year’s Day?

Hence the name, Anytime Fitness members have 24/7 access. Staffing hours will vary by location during the holidays, but prospective members can still sign up online and visit locations outside of staffing hours.

Are The Bar Method and Basecamp Fitness open on New Year’s Day?

Holiday hours for The Bar Method and Basecamp Fitness vary by studio. We recommend checking your local location for the most accurate schedule.

Gabe Hauari is USA TODAY’s national trends news reporter. You can follow him at X @gabehauari Or email Gdhauari@gannett.com.

Jack Smith blames Trump for January 6th riot in records released by Congress

0

play

Former special counsel Jack Smith told lawmakers that President Donald Trump was responsible for the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol and staunchly defended efforts to prosecute him, according to newly released transcripts of his testimony before the House Judiciary Committee.

Regarding Trump’s alleged guilt in the Capitol riot, Smith said, “Our view of the evidence is that Mr. Trump caused and exploited the incident and that it was foreseeable to Mr. Trump.”

Smith testified privately to the committee earlier this month. The committee released video of the deposition and 255 pages of records on Wednesday, December 31st.

During his deposition, Smith adamantly denied that prosecutors were politically motivated and rejected suggestions that he was trying to influence the 2024 election. President Trump has repeatedly criticized Smith, calling him “crazy” and “a freak” who was “used by crooked Joe Biden to attack his political opponents.”

“I would never take orders from a political leader to interfere with another person in an election. That’s not who I am,” Smith said in the affidavit.

Smith filed two lawsuits against Trump in 2023, alleging that Trump illegally kept classified documents and tried to overturn his 2020 election loss. He dropped the case after Trump wins in 2024, pointing to the Justice Department’s policy against prosecuting sitting presidents.

In his opening statement, Smith said the investigation had gathered “evidence beyond a reasonable doubt” that President Trump “engaged in a criminal scheme” to overturn the 2020 election, culminating in the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. He added that investigators “have uncovered strong evidence that President Trump intentionally retained highly classified documents after he left office in January 2021.”

The Judiciary Committee, chaired by Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), subpoenaed Smith for public testimony. The committee instead held testimony in private.

Republicans have criticized the investigation, citing recent revelations that phone records of Republican senators were obtained by Smith, telling the committee that the records were “relevant to completing a comprehensive investigation.”

USA TODAY has reached out to the White House for comment.

Contributor: Aisha Bagki

New Year was celebrated all over the world. Check out the video updates.

0

(In some parts of the world) Happy New Year!

While the clock is still ticking until 2026 is celebrated in the United States, here are some highlights from around the world, including Australia, parts of Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

You can also watch live coverage of the New Year’s Eve celebrations by watching the USA TODAY livestream at the top of this article or by reading below.

How to watch New Year’s special programs on TV

As the clock ticks down to the end of 2025, here’s how to watch the countless TV specials ringing in the new year.

Watch: New Year celebrations in Europe and the Middle East

play

Check out New Year’s celebrations across the Middle East and Europe.

From Qatar to Paris, people around the world are celebrating the start of 2026 in style.

The British Isles welcomes the new year

Great Britain and Ireland danced their way into the new year, welcoming 2026 at 7pm ET.

While Irish festivities took place from Galway to Cork, Big Ben kept watch over London’s festivities.

This set of countries ushering in the New Year also included Scotland, the home of Robert Burns, author of the unforgettable New Year’s song, Auld Lang Syne.

What’s open on New Year’s Day in America?

As the final minutes of 2025 tick by in the U.S., here’s what you need to know about what will be open and closed on the first day of 2026.

Reaching Europe in 2026

The new year has arrived in Europe as the continent enters 2026 at 6pm ET.

Fireworks went off at Germany’s Brandenburg Gate and Rome’s Colosseum, and the lights of Paris’ Eiffel Tower shone as people welcomed the calendar change.

dubai

The 2026 Dubai Run began at 4pm ET with a spectacular fireworks display from around the Burj Khalifa, a skyscraper that stands over 2,700 feet tall.

play

Dubai celebrates New Year with spectacular fireworks display

A massive fireworks display at the iconic Burj Khalifa lit up Dubai’s skies to celebrate the new year.

Asia

All of Asia has officially welcomed the new year. Video from Taipei, Taiwan. Beijing, China. Fantastic fireworks, projections, dance performances, and more will be on display in Hong Kong and Seoul, South Korea.

In Seoul, the ringing of the bell on New Year’s Eve is a major event. According to the Korea Foundation, the event will be held under Bosingak with the bronze bell being struck 33 times. Seoul celebrated 2026 at 10 a.m. ET.

play

Celebrate the New Year 2026 from Sydney to Seoul

New Year’s celebrations were held in cities in the East and the Pacific.

Australia

Australians celebrated the New Year at 8am ET, just as many New Yorkers were heading to work. Fireworks lit up the night sky over Sydney Harbour, dazzling crowds made up of people who had camped out the night before to secure a spot to watch the spectacular show.

play

NYE celebrations around the world: Sydney welcomes 2026

The world is ringing in the new year. Sydney, Australia, welcomed 2026 with a massive fireworks display over its iconic harbour.

Contributor: Julia Gomez, USA TODAY

Greta Cross is USA TODAY’s national trends reporter. Story ideas? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.

Will restaurants be open on New Year’s Day 2026? Chipotle, Wendy’s, etc.

0

play

The new year is here, and diners looking to kick off 2026 with coffee, burritos, and fried chicken are in luck because they’ll have plenty to choose from on New Year’s Day.

Most sit-down restaurants and fast food chains plan to open on January 1, although some business hours have been adjusted. The same is true for many retail and grocery stores. Most restaurant chains will be open on New Year’s Eve. If you plan ahead and have leftovers in the fridge from the night before, they’ll be open on New Year’s Eve.

We will introduce information you need to know, such as whether restaurants and fast food chains will be open on New Year’s Day and business hours.

When is New Year’s Day in 2026?

The new year is Thursday, January 1st.

Is McDonald’s open on New Year’s Day?

Business hours vary by store, but most McDonald’s stores will be open on New Year’s Day. You can check the opening hours of local restaurants here.

Is Starbucks open on New Year’s Day?

Starbucks store hours vary by location. You can check a specific store’s opening hours using the Starbucks app or here.

Is Dunkin’ open on New Year’s Day?

Dunkin’ hours vary by location. You can use the Dunkin’ Store Locator or the Dunkin’ Rewards app to find the hours of operation for a specific store.

Is Chick-fil-A open on New Year’s Day?

Chick-fil-A restaurants will open on January 1st, but some locations may have limited hours. Please check with local restaurants for specific holiday hours.

Is Chipotle open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Chipotle restaurants will be open as usual on New Year’s Day, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Cava open on New Year’s Day?

Cava restaurants will open for regular hours starting Jan. 1, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Raising Cane’s open on New Year’s Day?

No, Raising Cane stores will close on January 1, a company spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY.

Is Popeyes open on New Year’s Day?

Popeye’s holiday hours vary by location, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY. We recommend checking with your local restaurant for specific opening hours.

Is Bojangles open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Bojangles restaurants will open at 7 a.m. local time on January 1, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Burger King open on New Year’s Day?

The company says holiday hours vary by location, so it’s best to check with your local restaurant. You can use Burger King’s store locator to find a restaurant near you.

Is Wendy’s open on New Year’s Day?

Most Wendy’s locations are open on holidays, but business hours vary by store, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY. Customers are encouraged to use the company’s location locator for up-to-date information about Wendy’s stores near them.

Is Taco Bell open on New Year’s Day?

Business hours vary by location, but you can find the opening hours of your nearby Taco Bell here.

Is Whataburger open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Whataburger restaurants are scheduled to open on January 1, a company spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY.

Is Shake Shack open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Shake Shack locations will be open on New Year’s Day, according to the company’s website, but some locations may have reduced hours. The company recommends checking the business hours of your local office.

Is Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburger open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Freddy’s stores will be open as usual on New Year’s Day, a company spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY.

Is Zaxby’s open on New Year’s Day?

Zaxby’s will open on January 1st, but business hours will vary by location, so the company recommends customers contact their local Zaxby’s for specific holiday hours.

Is the subway open on New Year’s Day?

Subway restaurants are independently owned and operated, so business hours vary by location. Please check with local restaurants for specific holiday hours.

Is Firehouse Subs open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Firehouse Subs locations will open on January 1, but business hours may vary by store, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY. We recommend checking online or calling ahead to confirm your local store’s opening hours.

Is Panera Bread open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Panera Bread restaurants will open on January 1, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY. Business hours vary by location, so we recommend checking online or calling your local store for specific holiday hours.

Are Hardee’s and Carl’s Jr. open on New Year’s Day?

Hardee’s and Carl’s Jr. hours vary by location, so you should check with your local restaurant for specific holiday hours.

Is Cracker Barrel open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Cracker Barrel restaurants will be open as usual on January 1, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is IHOP open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, IHOP locations will be open on New Year’s Day. Hours vary by location, so check with local restaurants for specific hours before visiting.

Is Waffle House open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Waffle House restaurants will open on January 1st.

Is Krispy Kreme open on New Year’s Day?

Krispy Kreme stores will remain open as usual on New Year’s Day, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Outback Steakhouse open on New Year’s Day?

Most Outback Steakhouse locations will open starting Jan. 1, but business hours will vary by location, the company told USA TODAY. Please check with local restaurants for specific holiday hours.

Is Carrabba’s Italian Grill open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Carrabba’s Italian Grill locations will be open on New Year’s Day, but business hours will vary by location, the company told USA TODAY. Please check with local restaurants for specific holiday hours.

Is Bonefish Grill open on New Year’s Day?

Bonefish Grill business hours vary by location, so we recommend checking with your local restaurant for specific holiday hours.

Is Texas Roadhouse open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Texas Roadhouse restaurants will be open for regular business hours starting January 1, a company spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY. Hours may vary by location, so we recommend checking with local restaurants for specific hours.

Is Applebee’s open on New Year’s Day?

Some Applebee’s stores nationwide will remain open on New Year’s Day, but hours may be reduced, the company told USA TODAY. Business hours vary by location, so please check with your local restaurant before visiting.

Is Red Lobster open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Red Lobster restaurants will open on January 1, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY. Opening hours vary by store, so we recommend checking the Red Lobster website for the opening hours of your local store.

Is Maggiano’s open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Maggiano Restaurants will be open as usual on New Year’s Day, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Fogo de Chão open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Fogo de Chão restaurants will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Jan. 1, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Chili’s open on New Year’s Day?

Chili’s restaurants will remain open as usual on New Year’s Day, the company confirmed to USA TODAY.

Is First Watch open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, First Watch stores will be open as usual starting January 1, the company told USA TODAY.

Gabe Hauari is USA TODAY’s national trends news reporter. You can follow him at X @gabehauari Or email Gdhauari@gannett.com.

Chief Justice Roberts says the country’s legal foundations are solid

0


Mr. Roberts’ annual report on the federal judiciary did not focus on controversies, but looked ahead to the nation’s 250th anniversary.

play

WASHINGTON – Chief Justice John Roberts said in his annual report Dec. 31, looking ahead to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, that the nation’s legal foundations remain strong.

Roberts’ year-end report on the federal judiciary does not mention President Donald Trump’s attacks on judges or the warnings of some of his liberal colleagues that the Constitution and the rule of law could be at risk.

Instead, the former history major praised the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, saying they continue to endure despite discord between nations.

Roberts quoted President Calvin Coolidge as saying on the nation’s 150th anniversary that “in the midst of the conflicting interests, in the midst of the chaos of partisan politics,” “the two great charters of liberty and justice stand firm and steadfast.”

“It was true then and it’s true now,” Roberts wrote.

Trump tried the courts.

Roberts, who oversees the federal judiciary in addition to his leadership role on the Supreme Court, also said the responsibility lies with all three branches of government and all Americans to fulfill the promises of the Declaration of Independence.

“We in the Third Branch must continue to adjudicate the cases before us in accordance with our oath, provide equal rights to the poor and rich, and faithfully and impartially perform all our duties under the Constitution and laws of the United States,” he wrote.

Notably, throughout the year, President Trump’s wide-ranging claims about presidential power and criticism of the judges who ruled against him have tested the court.

In fact, in March, Roberts issued a brief but unusual rebuke after Trump said a judge who tried to block the deportation of hundreds of Venezuelan immigrants should be impeached.

“For more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreements over judicial decisions,” Roberts said at the time. “The normal appellate review process exists for that purpose.”

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, one of the court’s three liberal justices, has been more outspoken about both Trump’s comments and the rulings of his conservative colleagues, who he said showed favoritism toward the administration.

In one dissenting opinion, Jackson said the majority gave the president a green light to “occasionally exercise the kind of unchecked and arbitrary power that our Founders wrote the Constitution to eradicate.”

judges criticized district judges

There were tensions over the rule of law not only between judges but also between high courts and lower courts.

Conservative justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh said some federal judges appeared to be deliberately ignoring past Supreme Court decisions when faced with the Trump administration’s controversy.

“Lower court judges may sometimes disagree with our court’s decisions, but they are never free to disobey,” Gorsuch said in a particularly pointed statement, along with Kavanaugh.

According to Roberts’ annual report, lawsuits filed in district courts against the federal government increased by 9% between October 1, 2024 and September 30, 2025. But the numbers don’t reveal what percentage was caused by actions taken by the Trump administration.

Roberts emphasizes judicial independence

In his report, Roberts emphasized the strength of the judiciary.

He pointed out that one of the many charges the Founding Fathers levied against King George III in the Declaration of Independence was the rule of judges.

Roberts said the Constitution corrected that flaw, providing tenure and salary protections to protect the independence of judges and “an anti-majoritarian check on the political branch.”

“This arrangement was beneficial to the country,” Roberts wrote.

Dog treats recalled in these states due to salmonella contamination

0

play

Dog treats are being recalled in seven states due to possible salmonella contamination.

Consumers Supply Distributing announced the recall on December 24th. The affected products are Country Vet Biscuits – 4-pound bags of Original Meaty flavor and Heartland Harvest Dog Biscuits – 4-pound bags of Meaty Flavor with Chicken.

Products were sold in stores in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Texas, Montana, and Nebraska.

Salmonella can affect animals that eat the product, and handling contaminated pet products poses a risk to humans, especially if hands are not washed thoroughly after touching food or surfaces that have come into contact with the product.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s website, healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.

In rare cases, Salmonella can cause more serious illnesses such as arterial infections, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms.

Anyone exhibiting symptoms should contact their health care provider.

Animals that have digested Salmonella become lethargic and may develop diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Your pet may experience a loss of appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. Infected healthy pets can become carriers and infect other animals and humans.

Owners of animals that have ingested the recalled products are asked to contact their veterinarian.

How to identify recalled products

Products can be identified by:

Country Vet Biscuits — Original Meat Flavor UPC: 899623000463; Lot Code: 40906513; Size: 4 lb bag. Expiration date: September 6, 2026

Heartland Harvest Dog Biscuits — UPC: 840227340691; Lot Code: 40906513; Size: 4 lb bag. Expiration date: September 6, 2026.

No illnesses related to the recall have been reported. Salmonella was detected in the product as part of the FDA’s routine sampling program. Testing revealed that the product contained bacteria. The company subsequently discontinued manufacturing and selling the product. The FDA and the company are investigating the cause of the problem.

Consumers who purchased recalled products should stop using them and return unused portions to their point of purchase for a full refund.

Michelle Del Rey is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Please contact mdelrey@usatoday.com.

The Democratic Party will win the 2026 midterm elections. blame trump economy

0


As we countdown to 2026, we gathered our columnists to make another prediction. Did I hit the mark this year? Only time will tell.

play

At USA TODAY Opinion, we like to end each year by looking ahead to the next year and pretending we can predict the future. Sometimes it’s done right (and sometimes it’s done wrong). Sometimes our predictions are completely wrong, but we can’t win everything.

As we countdown to 2026, we’ve gathered our columnists to make another prediction. Read predictions from both sides of the aisle or share your own here. Did it go well this year? Only time will tell.

We fully guarantee that these 7 things will happen in 2026 and cost just $100.

As one of the nation’s top never-wrong columnists, my annual New Year’s predictions are considered ironclad. And I’m sure these predictions for 2026 will be no different.

Here’s what I’m sure will happen, in no particular order.

  • President Donald Trump will lie. I know this is hard to imagine, but I guarantee you this will be the year he finally says something dishonest.
  • An NFL team wins the Super Bowl. For all the money, the winner of this year’s NFL Championship will undoubtedly be the team of football players who play better football than the rest.
  • Every reader sends me $100. (Hey guys, let’s manifest this and you’ll end up with $700!)
  • Conservatives online are going to be offended by something.
  • Liberals on the internet are going to be offended by something.
  • Online centrists will be mildly upset about something, but no one will care because, hahahaha, who are the losers anyway? Which side are you on?
  • As always, thank you very much to everyone who read my nonsense. (Especially those who sent me $100.)

— Rex Hupke

America will turn 250 years old in 2026. Can we celebrate together?

On July 4, 2026, we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America and the origin of the words of the Declaration of Independence: “We hold these truths to be self-evident: all men are created equal, endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”

The president wants to celebrate. The White House has been planning for months how to mark this milestone. I’m proud that the Trump Administration is working with my alma mater, Hillsdale College, to create an outstanding series of short videos documenting our nation’s founding. I highly recommend everyone to see it, even if you consider yourself a history buff.

But I’m also concerned about the future of our country. This landmark birthday comes at a time when Americans feel more divided than ever. The assassination of conservative star Charlie Kirk in September brought these divisions to the forefront, with a surprising number of people on the left celebrating his killing, all because of political differences.

And in December, President Trump himself appeared to downplay the horrific murder of Hollywood legend Rob Reiner and his wife at the hands of their son. Just as Kirk’s detractors did, Trump’s past political grievances with Reiner have erased his basic humanity.

It’s unsightly and I’m worried about where it’s connected. My hope is that next year we can come together to celebrate what makes our country the greatest in the world. But I’m far from convinced that it can be done.

— Ingrid Jacks

President Trump’s economy will help Democrats gain an advantage in midterm elections

In 2026, I predict that the Democratic Party will dominate in the midterm elections, despite their own missteps, simply because they will harshly criticize President Trump’s economic struggles.

Mr. Trump can claim that all the good is his fault and that all the bad is former President Joe Biden’s fault. But the fact that Americans disapprove of his second term job and are extremely concerned about the economy is likely enough to shorten the hold on elected Republicans. President Trump’s approval rating remains at just 36%, and the number of people who think the economy is not working well for them has increased to 61%.

While the Senate may remain out of reach due to seating constraints, Congressional Democrats seem very likely to retake the House of Representatives, which would be enough to cause problems in parts of President Trump’s policies that cannot be achieved with the stroke of a pen.

Unless there is a major economic reversal in the near term, or some other significant event, there may be little Republicans can do to lessen the damage this important issue will do to their medium-term hopes.

—Dace Potassium

MAGA chaos may finally bring down the Republican Party

Three things seem certain heading into 2026.

President Trump has spent much of 2025 doing just that, occasionally acknowledging how unconstitutional it is while hinting that he might consider a different campaign.

Two old friends, mega-donor Miriam Adelson and lawyer Alan Dershowitz, are egging him on. Adelson, who spent $250 million supporting President Trump’s 2024 re-election bid, recently said publicly that he would be happy to do it again. Mr. Dershowitz gave Mr. Trump a draft of a book he plans to publish on whether a third term is legally possible.

Trump’s “Make America Great Again” coalition has devolved into a knife fight, with some of the tension stemming from the question of what happens after Trump and who decides it.

As I suggested in my Dec. 11 newsletter, Democrats need to accept Trump’s selfish need to be at the center of everything. Democrats should dare President Trump to challenge him in 2028.

The resulting turmoil in the already shaky MAGA wing of the Republican Party will be quite a sight to see. Imagine President Trump teasing a third term while his most prominent followers grapple with succession issues.

— Chris Brennan

Will retail stores be open on New Year’s Day 2026? IKEA, Kohl’s, Macy’s, etc.

0

play

This week, the calendar switches from 2025 to 2026. Good news for those looking to ring in the new year with some retail therapy.

Whether you’re looking for new furniture, a new outfit, or new tools to complete a home project, consumers have plenty of shopping options this New Year’s Day. That’s because most retailers will be open on those days, although some retailers have adjusted their business hours. This year, most retail chains will be open on New Year’s Eve.

Here’s what you need to know about the retailer and whether it will be open this Thursday, January 1st.

When is New Year’s Day in 2026?

The new year is Thursday, January 1st.

Is Walmart open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Walmart stores will be open for regular business hours on January 1st, a company spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY.

Is Target open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Target stores will be open as usual on New Year’s Day, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Best Buy open on New Year’s Day?

Best Buy stores will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Jan. 1, a company spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY.

Is Kohl’s open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Kohl’s stores will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on New Year’s Day, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Are TJ Maxx, Marshall’s, and HomeGoods open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, a spokesperson for TJX Companies told USA TODAY that most of the three stores will remain open on New Year’s Day from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Is Macy’s open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Macy’s stores will be open for regular business hours starting January 1, a company spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY.

Is JC Penney open on New Year’s Day?

J.C. Penney stores will open at 11 a.m. on Jan. 1, but closing times will vary by store, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Nordstrom open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack stores will be open on New Year’s Day. Business hours vary by location, so shoppers are encouraged to check the company website for specific business hours for their local stores.

Is American Eagle open on New Year’s Day?

American Eagle stores will be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Jan. 1, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Will Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Ace Hardware be open on New Year’s Day?

According to the company’s website, Home Depot stores will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Jan. 1, and Lowe’s stores will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Ace Hardware stores are independently owned and operated, so business hours vary by location. We recommend contacting your local store for specific holiday hours.

Is REI open on New Year’s Day?

REI stores will be open on New Year’s Day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Are Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, both stores will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on New Year’s Day, the company told USA TODAY. However, some stores follow mall or shopping center business hours, so please check with your local store for specific holiday hours.

Is Belk open on New Year’s Day?

Belk stores will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Jan. 1, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Sephora open on New Year’s Day?

Sephora store hours vary based on the region and mall’s mandated hours, the company told USA TODAY. Customers can use the company’s store locator to find the opening hours of a particular store.

Is Victoria’s Secret open on New Year’s Day?

New Year’s Day store hours vary by location and follow each mall’s schedule, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY. Shoppers are encouraged to check the opening hours of their local store online.

Is IKEA open on New Year’s Day?

IKEA stores will remain open as usual on New Year’s Day, a company spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY.

Are Staples, Office Depot, and OfficeMax open on New Year’s Day?

Staples stores will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on New Year’s Day, and Office Depot and OfficeMax stores will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Are PetSmart and Petco open on New Year’s Day?

PetSmart stores will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on New Year’s Day, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY. Petco stores will also open and close earlier on New Year’s Day at 8 p.m. local time.

Is Tractor Supply Company open on New Year’s Day?

Tractor Supply Co. stores will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on New Year’s Day, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Gabe Hauari is USA TODAY’s national trends news reporter. You can follow him at X @gabehauari Or email Gdhauari@gannett.com.

President Trump says National Guard will be removed from Chicago, Los Angeles, Portland

0

play

President Donald Trump said in a social media post on Wednesday, Dec. 31, that he is rescinding efforts to send the National Guard to Chicago, Los Angeles and Portland, Oregon, in the face of several legal defeats.

“Remove the National Guard in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland. That’s simply due to the fact that having these great patriots in these cities has significantly reduced crime,” Trump wrote.

The president added that if crime rates rise, federal troops “will come back.” President Trump said the controversial deployment of troops to Democratic-led cities was aimed at enforcing immigration laws and fighting crime, but has increasingly faced legal challenges.

National Guard troops have been mostly off-site in Los Angeles for at least several weeks, and although they are also deployed in Portland, Oregon and Chicago, they have not taken to the streets to face legal challenges. In California, nearly all of the 4,000 California National Guard troops and 700 Marines originally deployed left the state over the summer.

The move came hours after the administration ended its fight to keep California’s National Guard under federal control, with the Democratic state winning a months-long legal battle.

The Supreme Court last week considered the president’s controversial use of military force. The Dec. 23 decision blocked the deployment from moving forward in Chicago amid developing legal issues.

Then, in early November, a federal judge ruled that the Trump administration’s sending of troops to Portland violated the 10th Amendment to the Constitution and that the sending of troops “exceeded the authority of the president.”

The National Guard normally operates under the command of governors, but can be called to federal service by the president only under certain circumstances.

“If the federal government hadn’t intervened, Portland, Los Angeles, and Chicago would be gone,” Trump said in the post. “We will be back when crime starts to spike again, perhaps in a much different and more powerful form – it’s just a matter of time!”

Kathryn Palmer is USA TODAY’s political reporter. She can be reached at the following address: kapalmer@usatoday.com And to X@Kathryn Purml. Sign up for her daily politics newsletter here.

(This story has been updated to include video.)

Patriots’ Christian Barmore charged with assault and battery

0

New England Patriots defensive lineman Christian Barmore has been charged with assault and battery, according to multiple reports.

Boston-area television station WCVB5 obtained a police report from Mansfield (Massachusetts) police in which Barmore’s ex-girlfriend, with whom he has a child, says Barmore, 26, lunged at her and threw her to the ground during a domestic dispute on Aug. 8, 2025. Mr Barmore was said to have been cooking a meal after becoming angry about the temperature in the house.

The woman tried to call her mother during the ordeal, but Barmore grabbed the phone and hung up, The Athletic reported via charging documents. The couple’s 2-year-old child reportedly witnessed the incident.

Mr. Barmore is scheduled to be arraigned in court on February 3.

“The New England Patriots are aware of reports regarding the pending February arraignment of Christian Barmore stemming from an alleged domestic incident in August,” the team said in a statement.

“The Patriots were aware of the incident at the time and notified the NFL in a timely manner. This matter is part of an ongoing legal process. We respect that process, continue to closely monitor the situation as we have in the past several months, and will cooperate fully with the league. We have no further comment at this time.”

Barmore is the second Patriots player in recent days to be accused of assaulting a woman. On December 30, wide receiver Stefon Diggs was charged with felony strangulation and assault of a former female employee stemming from an incident at his home on December 2.

The Patriots will play the Miami Dolphins in their final regular season game on January 4th and will host a playoff game the following week. Head coach Mike Vrabel told reporters on Dec. 31 that there was no reason to expect either Diggs or Barmore to be out (although Barmore missed practice Wednesday due to illness).

Vrabel said he was not “disappointed” by Diggs and Barmore’s legal troubles.

“As I said in my question, I think these are allegations and they are things that we have to address,” Vrabel said. “Every day there are distractions, some smaller than others. We are confident in focusing on the Dolphins and the two you mentioned will be able to handle the ongoing legal proceedings.”

Will banks, post offices, UPS, and FedEx be open on New Year’s Day 2026?

0

play

This week, the calendar switches from 2025 to 2026. If you need to deposit a check or mail a package, it’s a good idea to plan ahead.

Most banks and post offices will be open on December 31st, but this is not the case on New Year’s Day, which is a federal holiday and will be broadly closed. Delivery services such as UPS and FedEx will also be largely unavailable on January 1st.

However, most grocery stores, retailers and restaurant chains will remain open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day this year.

Here’s what you need to know about banks, post offices and delivery services and whether they’ll be open on Thursday, January 1st.

When is New Year’s Day in 2026?

The new year is Thursday, January 1st.

Is the post office open on New Year’s Day? Will my mail be delivered?

U.S. Postal Service post offices will close on January 1 and no mail will be delivered on the same day, according to the USPS website. On January 1st, mail will no longer be accepted in the blue collection boxes.

The Postal Service will resume normal operations on Friday, January 2nd.

Are banks open on New Year’s Day?

New Year’s Day is a federal holiday, so most bank branches will be closed. We recommend double checking with your local bank branch for specific holiday hours.

Are delivery services like UPS and FedEx open on New Year’s Day?

UPS pickup and delivery services will not be available on New Year’s Day, and UPS Store locations may be closed, according to the company’s website. Please check with your local store for specific business hours.

UPS Express Critical is powered by Marken and is available 24/7, the company said. For more information, call 1-800-714-8779 or visit marken.com.

FedEx pickup and delivery services will also be unavailable on January 1, and FedEx offices will also be closed on the same day, according to the company’s website.

FedEx Custom Critical is also available 365 days a year. For more information, call 1-800-762-3787.

Gabe Hauari is USA TODAY’s national trends news reporter. You can follow him at X @gabehauari Or email Gdhauari@gannett.com.

Tim Walz called to testify before Congress on Minnesota fraud scandal

0


The state has increasingly drawn public anger over allegations of fraud related to government services, particularly from the White House and Republicans in Congress.

play

Congressional Republicans have invited Tim Walz, Minnesota’s Democratic governor and former vice presidential candidate for Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, to testify before lawmakers about the fraud scandal rocking the state.

Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.), chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, scheduled a hearing featuring the governor for Feb. 10. The announcement comes days after influencer Nick Shirley posted a video on social media alleging fraud at multiple child care centers in Minnesota.

In a statement, Comer accused Walz of being “drowsy at the wheel” while federal prosecutors siphoned hundreds of millions of dollars in taxpayer money from child nutrition programs. The Justice Department is calling it “the nation’s largest COVID-19 fraud scheme.”

Allegations of fraud in Minnesota’s social welfare program are increasing the anger of the White House and Republicans in Congress. On Dec. 30, the federal Department of Health and Human Services announced it would suspend child care payments to states amid the controversy.

Walz, who is facing calls for his resignation from Republicans, criticized the Trump administration for politicizing what he called a “serious problem” and highlighted the president’s own pardons for people convicted of fraud.

In a statement to USA TODAY, Walz’s office said that while the governor is “happy to work with the Legislature,” the House Oversight Committee “has a track record of holding circus hearings that have nothing to do with the issue at hand.” His office has not confirmed whether Walz has accepted the invitation to testify.

The first hearing on the matter is scheduled for 9 a.m. January 7, according to the House Oversight Committee. Minnesota State Representatives Kristin Robbins, Walter Hudson, and Marion Rarick are named as witnesses. All three are Republicans, and more are expected to join.

In early December, Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson said at least half of the $18 billion paid through Minnesota’s 14 Medicaid waiver programs since 2018 may also be fraudulent.

Zachary Schermele is a Congressional reporter for USA TODAY. You can email us at zschermele@usatoday.com. Follow him on X at @ZachSchermele and on Bluesky at @zachschermele.bsky.social..

Corey Schmidt covers politics and public safety for the St. Cloud Times. He can be reached at cschmidt@gannett.com.

Chevy Chase documentary recalls Terry Sweeney clash, ‘SNL’ alum reacts

0

play

Forty years after they clashed on the set of “Saturday Night Live,” Terry Sweeney is making his thoughts about “butt” Chevy Chase public.

Sweeney declined to participate in CNN’s upcoming documentary, “I’m Chevy Chase, and You’re Not,” which premiered on New Year’s Day, 8 PT, but he didn’t hesitate to share his thoughts about Chase in a recent online interview.

In 1985, Chase, a member of the sketch show’s original cast, returned as host. Sweeney, the show’s first openly gay cast member, said in the SNL oral history “Live from New York” that he was looking forward to the show because “Chevrolet was like a god to us.” But when Chase arrived, according to Sweeney, he was a “monster.”

According to testimony, Chase asked Sweeney to lick his testicles. he “insulted” everyone” Sweeney said on “Live from New York,” suggesting a sketch in which Sweeney has AIDS and weighs himself every week.

Chase laughed uncomfortably when he heard the joke in a CNN documentary. “That’s the worst,” he assessed, expressing hope that Sweeney was dead. “Because I don’t want you to talk to him about this.”

When a crew member offered to read “Live From New York,” Chase responded, “Oh, that’s great, thank you. It makes my day.”

Sweeney wrote in her book that Chase was asked to apologize, which made her “really furious.”

“None of that is true,” Chase insists. “What I remember is…that I was angry and that I had to apologize to him….My memory is that he’s lying, that’s my memory. He’s not telling the truth.”

It should be noted that Chase’s memory is affected by the heart failure he experienced in 2021. Documentary director Marina Zenovic told USA TODAY she believes Chase’s health issues played a role in his denial. “I think what happened with his memory loss plays a big role,” she says. “It’s like a circuit stopped and restarted, and some things were probably lost, especially things you don’t want to remember.”

But Sweeney is adamant that Chase is “an asshole,” as he told The Hollywood Reporter via instant message.

“It’s no surprise that everything reflects horribly on him!” Sweeney said, referring to Chase’s remarks. Sweeney also does not allow Chase to use the abuse he suffered as a child from his mother and stepfather (which is featured in the documentary) as an excuse for his actions.

“Boohoo…poor messed up kid…that’s why he’s so rotten!” Sweeney told the outlet. USA TODAY has reached out to representatives for Sweeney and Chase for comment.

Will pharmacies be open on New Year’s Day in 2026? CVS, Walgreens details

0

play

This week, the calendar switches from 2025 to 2026. Consumers who need to run errands, such as dropping off dry cleaning or filling prescriptions, are encouraged to plan ahead as businesses may be closed on and around New Year’s Day.

Fortunately for eateries and shoppers, most grocery stores, retailers, and restaurant chains plan to open on January 1, although some business hours have been adjusted. However, because New Year’s Day is a federal holiday, banks, post offices, and stock markets will be close together.

Here’s what you need to know about big pharmacy chains like CVS and Walgreens and whether they’ll be open on New Year’s Day this year. Pharmacy hours vary widely by retailer, so we recommend calling your local pharmacy or store or checking their website for more information.

When is New Year’s Day in 2026?

The new year is Thursday, January 1st.

Is CVS open on New Year’s Day?

CVS Pharmacy will remain open on New Year’s Day, but some stores and pharmacies may have reduced hours, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY. The company recommends customers call their local store before visiting CVS.com or checking business hours.

Is Walgreens open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Walgreens stores will open on January 1, according to the company’s website. Pharmacy hours may vary by region, so please check with your local store for specific hours.

Is Walmart open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Walmart stores will be open as usual on January 1, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Food Lion open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Food Lion stores will be open as usual on January 1, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY. However, pharmacies will be closed.

Is Costco open on New Year’s Day?

No, Costco warehouses will close on January 1st, according to the Costco website.

Is Target open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Target stores will be open as usual on New Year’s Day, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Gabe Hauari is USA TODAY’s national trends news reporter. You can follow him at X @gabehauari Or email Gdhauari@gannett.com.

Watch New Year’s Eve celebrations from around the world live

0

Happy new year!

Many countries around the world will be switching their calendars to 2026 before most people in the United States can even get out of bed.

But if you’re feeling a little festive and want to celebrate the New Year a little earlier than most American celebrations, USA TODAY is for you.

new year’s eve celebrations around the world

The live stream above will begin as the bell rings in 2026 at 8am Australian Eastern Time, followed by the following locations that will ring in the new year ahead of the United States, more than a few hours earlier than the United States.

  • sydney, australia
  • Seoul, South Korea
  • Beijing, China
  • Hong Kong
  • Taipei, Taiwan
  • Bangkok, Thailand
  • doha, qatar
  • Nairobi, Kenya
  • edinburgh, scotland
  • berlin, germany
  • Tokyo, Japan

Julia is a trends reporter for USA TODAY, covering scientific research and trending news. Connect with her on LinkedIn ×Instagram, TikTok: @juliamaigz or email jgomez@hannett.com..

What are the business hours and regular holidays on New Year’s Day? Store hours and details

0

play

This week, the calendar switches from 2025 to 2026. Whether you’re looking to start the new year with coffee, a sit-down breakfast, or looking for some retail therapy, consumers should have several options on New Year’s Day.

Most restaurants, grocery stores and retail chains will be open starting January 1, but some stores are adjusting their business hours. However, banks, post offices, delivery services, and stock markets are closed on federal holidays.

Here’s everything you need to know about opening hours and closing dates on Thursday, January 1st. Remember, hours and closing dates may vary by location, so it’s best to check local stores and restaurants online before leaving home.

When is New Year’s Day in 2026?

This year’s New Year’s Day is Thursday, January 1st.

Is Walmart open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Walmart stores will be open as usual on January 1, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Target open on New Year’s Day?

Yes, Target stores will be open as usual on New Year’s Day, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Are Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale open on New Year’s Day?

  • According to the Costco website, Costco warehouses will close on January 1st.
  • Sam’s Club warehouses will be closed on New Year’s Day, according to the company’s website.
  • BJ’s warehouse and gas station will be open Jan. 1 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., according to the company’s website.

Will Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Ace Hardware be open on New Year’s Day?

  • Home Depot stores will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Jan. 1, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.
  • According to the company’s website, Lowe’s stores will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Ace Hardware stores are independently owned and operated, so business hours vary by location. We recommend contacting your local store for specific holiday hours.

Are pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens open on New Year’s Day?

  • CVS Pharmacy will remain open on New Year’s Day, but some stores and pharmacies may have reduced hours, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY. The company recommends customers call their local store before visiting CVS.com or checking business hours.
  • The Walgreens store will open on January 1, according to the company’s website. Pharmacy hours may vary by region, so please check with your local store for specific hours.

Is the post office open on New Year’s Day? Will my mail be delivered?

U.S. Postal Service post offices will be closed on January 1 and no mail will be delivered that day, according to the USPS website. On January 1st, mail will no longer be accepted in the blue collection boxes.

The Postal Service will resume normal operations on Friday, January 2nd.

Are banks open on New Year’s Day?

New Year’s Day is a federal holiday, so most bank branches will be closed. We recommend double checking with your local bank branch for specific holiday hours.

Are UPS and FedEx open on New Year’s Day?

UPS pickup and delivery services will not be available on New Year’s Day, and UPS Store locations may be closed, according to the company’s website. Please check with your local store for specific business hours.

UPS Express Critical is powered by Marken and is available 24/7, the company said. For more information, call 1-800-714-8779 or visit marken.com.

FedEx pickup and delivery services will also be unavailable on January 1, and FedEx offices will also be closed on the same day, according to the company’s website.

FedEx Custom Critical is also available 365 days a year. For more information, call 1-800-762-3787.

Which retail stores are open on New Year’s Day?

The following retail stores will be available. open is January 1st.

  • Target: Normal business hours
  • Kohl’s: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • TJ Maxx: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Home Goods: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Marshalls: 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Best Buy: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Macy’s: Regular business hours
  • JC Penney: Opens at 11 a.m. Closing times vary by store
  • Nordstrom: Regular business hours
  • American Eagle: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Sephora: Hours vary by location
  • Victoria’s Secret: Hours vary by location
  • Home Depot: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Lowe’s: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Ace Hardware: Hours vary by location
  • REI: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Bass Pro Shop: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Cabela’s: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Berg: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Sephora: Hours vary by location
  • IKEA: Regular business hours
  • Staples: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Office Depot: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Office Max: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • PetSmart: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Petco: Closes at 8 p.m.
  • Tractor Supply Co.: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Which grocery stores are open on New Year’s Day?

The following grocery stores are available. open is January 1st.

  • Walmart: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
  • Target: Normal business hours
  • BJ’s Wholesale: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Kroger family of stores. The Kroger family of stores includes Baker’s, City Market, Dillons, Food 4 Less, Foods Co, Fred Meyer, Fry’s, Gerbes, Jay C Food Store, King Soopers, Kroger, Mariano’s, Metro Market, Pay-Less Super Markets, Pick’n Save, QFC, Ralphs, Ruler and Smith’s Food and Drug.
  • Food Lion regular business hours
  • Publix: Most stores close at 7 p.m. Atlanta and Charlotte stores close at 8 p.m.
  • Meyer: 6 a.m. to midnight.
  • Whole Foods: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Harris Teeter: Regular business hours
  • Wegmans: Regular business hours
  • Winn-Dixie: Regular business hours
  • Harvey: Regular business hours
  • Giant Eagle: Closes at 5 p.m.
  • Lidl stores in New York will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The following grocery stores are available. closed On New Year’s Day:

  • costco
  • Sam’s Club
  • trader joe’s
  • aldi
  • Lidl locations outside New York

What restaurants are open on New Year’s Day?

The following restaurants are open is January 1st.

  • Starbucks: Business hours vary by store
  • Dunkin: Hours vary by location
  • McDonald’s: Regular business hours
  • Chick-fil-A: Most stores have regular business hours, but some stores may have limited hours.
  • Chipotle: Regular business hours
  • Popeye: Regular business hours
  • Bojangles: Restaurant opens at 7 a.m.
  • Cava: Opening hours vary by location
  • Burger King: Regular business hours
  • Whataburger: Regular business hours
  • Shake Shack: Most stores are open during normal business hours, but some locations may have reduced hours.
  • Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburger: Regular Hours
  • Zaxby’s: Regular business hours
  • Wendy’s: Business hours vary by store
  • Subway: Opening hours vary by location
  • Fire Department Sub: Hours vary by location
  • Hardee’s: Hours vary by location
  • Carl’s Jr.: Hours vary by location
  • Panera Bread: Hours vary by store
  • Cracker Barrel: Regular business hours
  • IHOP: Hours vary by location
  • Waffle House normal business hours
  • Krispy Kreme: Regular business hours
  • Outback Steakhouse: Hours vary by location
  • Carrabba’s Italian Grill: Hours vary by location
  • Bonefish Grill: Hours vary by location
  • Texas Roadhouse: Hours vary by location
  • Applebee’s: Some stores may have reduced hours.
  • Hooters: Regular business hours.
  • Red Lobster: Hours vary by location
  • Maggiano’s: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Fogo de Chao: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Chili’s: Regular business hours
  • First Watch: Regular business hours

Gabe Hauari is USA TODAY’s national trends news reporter. You can follow him at X @gabehauari Or email Gdhauari@gannett.com.

President Trump’s first two vetoes anger Lauren Boebert

0

play

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump issued the first veto of his second term just before the end of the year, blocking two bipartisan infrastructure bills.

One of the bills, HR 131, was intended to complete the Arkansas Valley Conduit, a water pipeline under construction to provide municipal and industrial water to communities in southeastern Colorado. Another, HR 504, would have required the Trump administration to work with the Miccosukee Tribe of Florida Indians to protect structures at Camp Osceola from flooding.

Both bills passed the Senate without opposition in December.

Colorado’s pipeline veto, announced in a Dec. 30 White House statement, drew immediate criticism from Colorado Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert, a staunch former MAGA ally who rebelled against Trump by supporting the release of Jeffrey Epstein files earlier this year.

In a statement to a local Colorado television station, Boebert, the pipeline bill’s sponsor, condemned President Trump’s veto of what she described as a “totally uncontroversial bipartisan bill,” adding, “I sincerely hope this veto is not related to political retribution for condemning corruption and demanding accountability.”

“This is not over,” Boebert later wrote in a post to X.

President Trump’s move comes as the president publicly criticizes Colorado Democratic Gov. Jared Polis over the state’s jailing of Tina Peters, a former county clerk in Colorado who was convicted on multiple charges of accessing secure voting system data to prove a baseless conspiracy to deny the 2020 election.

The Trump administration announced this month that it would move to dismantle the Boulder, Colorado-based National Center for Atmospheric Research, one of the nation’s top climate research centers. The administration also canceled $109 million in environmentally focused transportation grants to Colorado aimed at promoting research into electric vehicles, rail improvements, and trains powered by hydrogen and natural gas.

“President Trump just passed unanimously the Arkansas Valley Conduit Act to bring clean, affordable water to southeastern Colorado,” Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colorado, said in a statement. “This is not governance. This is a revenge trip. It is unacceptable. I will continue to fight to give rural Colorado the clean water they deserve.”

In his statement regarding his veto of the water project, President Trump said more than $249 million has already been spent on the waterway, with a total cost estimated at $1.3 billion. He argued the bill would force federal taxpayers to shoulder even more of the cost of projects, which should be borne by local residents.

President Trump said, “Enough is enough.” “My administration is committed to preventing American taxpayers from funding expensive and unreliable policies. Ending the huge cost of taxpayer benefits and restoring fiscal health is critical to economic growth and the nation’s fiscal health.”

President Trump targets Florida tribes with second veto

In his other veto statement, President Trump cited the tribe’s opposition to its hard-line immigration policies when explaining why he cut off infrastructure to deal with the tribe’s flooding.

He said Camp Osceola in the Everglades was built without a permit in 1935 on low-lying land raised with fill material. President Trump said the Biden administration has developed a plan to protect and replace “unauthorized infrastructure at the Osceola camp” that could cost up to $14 million.

“But even as the Mikosukee Nation sought funding and special treatment from the federal government, they have actively sought to undermine the reasonable immigration policies that the American people decisively voted for when I was elected,” Trump said.

He said his administration is committed to “preventing American taxpayers from funding projects for special interests, especially those that are inconsistent with my administration’s policy of removing illegal aliens from our country who have committed violent crimes.”

Contributed by: Reuters

Contact Joey Garrison @joeygarrison.

Chevy Chase documentary brings ‘intense scrutiny’ for complex actor

0

play

  • Chevy Chase is the subject of a CNN documentary, “I’m Chevy Chase, You’re Not,” which will premiere on January 1st.
  • “I’m Chevy Chase, You’re Not” delves into the actor’s personal life and his complicated show business legacy.
  • “It’s a tough game for him,” coach Marina Zenovic told USA TODAY. “We didn’t coat the surface with anything.

Filmmaker Marina Zenovic’s fame preceded her when she was hired to direct a CNN documentary about the life of Chevy Chase.

“I’ve been making movies about complicated men,” Zenovich said in an interview with USA TODAY. Her documentaries feature everyone from comedians like Richard Pryor and Robin Williams to celebrated director-turned-fugitive Roman Polanski to cancer survivor and blood-doping denier Lance Armstrong.

“I think[in ‘Rance’]you knew I was going to go head-to-head with someone.”

In “I’m Chevy Chase, and You’re Not” (premiering New Year’s Day, 8 PT), Zenovich gets into a figurative ring with the 82-year-old controversial comedian who coined the title phrase on the debut season of “Saturday Night Live.” Chase’s resourcefulness proved to be a box office triumph with successes like “Caddyshack,” National Lampoon’s “Vacation” movies, and “Fletch.”

But off-screen, Chase built a reputation.

Terry Sweeney, the first openly gay SNL star, recalled that Chase was “a monster” when he returned to host in 1985. He “insulted everyone,” Sweeney said in his book Live from New York, and suggested a sketch in which Sweeney had AIDS and weighed himself every week.

“So he ended up having to apologize and actually come to my office,” Sweeney says. “He was really furious that he had to apologize to me.”

And the behavior continued. “Home Alone” director Chris Columbus blames Chase’s actions for his departure from the 1989 classic “National Lampoon’s Vacation.” Dan Harmon, the creator of the six-season NBC comedy “Community” (2009-2015) on which Chase was killed off, told The New Yorker in 2018 that Chase was jealous of co-star Donald Glover. “And his way of expressing his jealousy was to try to push Donald away. I remember apologizing to Donald after a particularly bad night in a non-PC Chevrolet car.”

Zenovich gets a taste of Chase’s growl just minutes into the film when she says she’s trying to understand the actor. “It won’t be easy for you,” he warns her. “You’re not very bright. What do you think?” he says with a smile.

Zenovich is stunned by his bluntness. “Well, you asked,” Chase says. “I know you don’t show it, and I hope you don’t. But my answer is that I’m complex, deep down, and vulnerable, so I naturally react, so to speak, to people who try to understand me. As someone who protects my bodyguards, I’m not going to let anyone understand me, per se.”

“The moment he asked me that, I thought, ‘Oh my god, I’m interested too,'” Zenovich says. “You know, ‘People think you’re boring.’ And he was like, ‘What?’…He didn’t realize it.”

Zenovich spoke to USA TODAY about what her interview with Chase was like, what she thought of the film, and whether the director felt she understood the man’s feelings.

Question: What were some of the challenges in making this documentary?

Answer: It felt like Chevrolet wanted to go there. But because he’s protective of himself, he’ll only go so far due to years of trauma. he goes there Some people don’t go at all, but he wants to go. He wants to try to understand himself, but we also have limits to self-preservation.

In your press notes, you say, “I had to give[Chase]a brazen interview, which certainly wasn’t easy. He’s a kind and polite man, but he’s also an 80-something-year-old self-admitted “angry kid.”” What was the experience like interviewing him?

He called me “B—-” at one point, (but) everything about him is a joke. You have to make the skin thicker, but once that’s done, it’s like eating a hamburger and fries because it’s not easy! It’s not that easy! It completely drained me of my energy… I’m so turned on, it’s exhausting! You need to turn them on.

That’s why he wants to open up, even though he is open-minded and tries to deflect and close it to protect himself. So this dance is the beauty of making this film. It’s just trying to understand humanity and trying to understand people. But it’s difficult.

Do you think you understood Chevrolet even though it was so guarded against?

I feel like I was too, because we’re getting into his backstory, and the key to Chevy is what happened to him as a kid. (As a child, Chase was abused by his mother and stepfather.) I use the word trauma so much that it has lost much of its potency. But I think he had quite a bit of trauma as a child and did the best he could with what he had.

I love his friend Peter Aaron’s line, “Chevy, you’re not using your God-given talent.” I feel chills. He’s very cocky and confident, but I don’t think he really believed it himself. In other words, he was an interesting young man, gorgeous and talented, but broken inside.

When you ask Chevrolet about his interaction with Terry Sweeney, he insists that nothing like Sweeney described happened. But his daughter Kaylee says his memory is affected by health issues. Do you think that has any effect on his denial?

It affects his denial. I think that explains it. I think it’s twofold. He is not good at apologizing, but everyone around him will tell you that he is the first person to do so. So it’s a bit of a mixed message. But I think what happened with his memory loss plays a big role. It felt like the circuit had stopped and restarted, so maybe something was lost. Especially things I don’t want to remember.

What does Chevrolet think about this movie?

At the premiere, he was very vulnerable and talking about having anxiety and insecurities (after the movie came out), which was really appealing because it allows people to be more honest about their insecurities and how they feel. I think this movie really humanizes him and that’s something I’m proud of.

It’s a tough watch for him. I mean, his wife says she still wakes him up and he remembers his mother hitting him. Nothing is coated.

At the end of the movie, Chevrolet apologizes “for being who I am.” Do you feel obligated to apologize? Were you caught off guard when he said that?

It was. It was a moment where he was a little vulnerable, but he opened up in exchange for a little something, and I appreciated that.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity and length.