Sphere announces intent to build venue at National Harbor in Maryland akin to Las Vegas facility

CNN Newsource on January 19, 2026

By Greg Ng

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    OXON HILL, Maryland (WBAL) — The second U.S. location for Sphere Entertainment will be built in Maryland, according to the governor’s office.

“Maryland has a long history of providing world-class entertainment and we could not be more excited to work with Sphere Entertainment to bring this cutting-edge project to life,” Gov. Wes Moore said in a statement. “This will be one of the largest economic development projects in Prince George’s County history – proving once again our state is the best place in the country to bring dreams to life. We’re excited for what this means for our people, and how it will showcase the best of what Maryland has to offer to everyone who visits.”

Perhaps well-known for its venue in Las Vegas, Sphere Entertainment and the state announced Sunday night the intent to develop a new, smaller-scale Sphere venue at National Harbor in Prince George’s County with a 6,000-seat capacity.

“Our focus has always been on creating a global network of Spheres across forward-looking cities,” James Dolan, executive chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment, said in a statement. “Sphere is a new experiential medium. With a commitment to bringing innovative opportunities to residents and visitors, Gov. Moore, (Prince George’s) County Executive (Aisha) Braveboy, the state of Maryland, and Prince George’s County recognize the potential for a Sphere at National Harbor to elevate and advance immersive experiences across the area.”

According to the governor’s office, the project would be funded publicly and privately, including about $200 million in state, local and private incentives.

The governor’s office said Sphere would support about 2,500 jobs during the construction phase, and 4,750 jobs once operational, creating an economic impact expected to be greater than $1 billion annually.

Located just 15 minutes from Washington, D.C., National Harbor is a top entertainment and tourism destination in the DMV (District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia) region. Situated along the Potomac River,

National Harbor is an entertainment and tourism destination on the Potomac River in Oxon Hill that attracts more than 15 million visitors annually. The governor’s office said a Sphere at National Harbor would draw original Sphere Experiences, concerts and brand events year-round.

“This is a world-class win and an incredibly exciting moment for Prince George’s County,” Braveboy said in a statement. “As only the second Sphere venue in the United States, this project demonstrates the future of economic development in Prince George’s County, how we compete, how we win, and how we attract other world-class destinations that will become flagship projects for our County, our state and the entire region.”

“We are excited to partner with Sphere Entertainment, the state of Maryland and Prince George’s County to bring a Sphere to National Harbor,” Jon Peterson, CEO of the Peterson Companies, said in a statement. “This innovative project will further reinforce National Harbor as the national capital region’s premier destination for conventions, entertainment, retail and dining, and hospitality; deliver more economic activity and jobs; and elevate National Harbor, and Maryland, as one of the country’s preeminent tourism and entertainment hubs.”

The proposed National Harbor site would feature an Exosphere – the exterior LED display of Sphere, as well as a 16Kx16K interior display plane – the world’s highest-resolution LED screen.

The governor’s office said negotiation and execution of definitive agreements continues.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Police identify victim killed in deadly early-morning shooting at Lawrence bar

CNN Newsource on January 19, 2026

By Eric Graves, Nick Sloan

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    LAWRENCE, Kan. (KMBC) — Police and family members have identified the 18-year-old killed in a shooting at a Lawrence bar as Aidan Knowles.

Two 18-year-olds remained jailed Sunday in connection with the early-morning shooting at The Hawk, a popular college bar near 13th and Ohio streets.

The Lawrence Police Department said officers were called to the bar around 2 a.m. Saturday after reports of gunfire. When officers arrived, they found Knowles dead from gunshot wounds. A 16-year-old was also shot and was listed in critical condition.

Investigators detained two suspects near the scene, police said.

Booking records from the Douglas County Correctional Facility show Caiden Clem, 18, was booked on suspicion of first-degree murder, aggravated assault and a probation violation.

Daitron Daniels, also 18, was booked on suspicion of first-degree murder, second-degree attempted murder and aggravated assault.

Both are being held without bond.

During a Saturday afternoon news conference, Lawrence Police Patrol Maj. Hayden Fowler said investigators believe the suspects are not from Lawrence.

“Our hearts pour out to those people affected by this incident,” Fowler said.

Residents who live near the bar said the violence was shocking. A nearby resident who identified himself as Matt said he has seen fights in the area before but had never heard gunshots.

“We kind of all just went into the basement and locked all the doors,” he said.

The shooting happened while students at the University of Kansas are on winter break. Classes resume Tuesday.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Convicted murderer accused of brutal attack on Idaho prison guard

KIFI on January 19, 2026

Seth Ratliff

KUNA, Idaho (KIFI) — An Idaho Department of Corrections staff member has been hospitalized following a brutal assault by a convicted murderer at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution over the weekend.

On Saturday, January 17, 2026, the 56-year-old staff member, whose name has not been released, was attacked Saturday morning by inmate Robert David Pompa. Following the assault, the corporal was transported to Saint Alphonsus Medical Center in Boise for treatment. IDOC officials have confirmed that the staff member is in stable condition.

“IMSI staff immediately secured the crime scene with assistance from officers from the Idaho State Correctional Institution and the Idaho State Correctional Center. The IMSI facility returned to normal status earlier today,” IDOC officials wrote in a news release Saturday.

The suspect, Robert David Pompa, is currently serving a 27-year sentence for a litany of violent felony convictions. In 2021, Pompa was charged with beating and killing a fellow inmate at the Madison County Jail. He later pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. Court records also indicate that Pompa was charged with battery on a correctional officer in early 2022 while being held at the same county facility.

The Idaho State Police have assumed the lead in the investigation into Saturday’s attack. No further details regarding the specific nature of the corporal’s injuries or the circumstances leading up to the assault have been released at this time.

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Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s granddaughter makes her way to Colorado Springs

KRDO on January 19, 2026

Marina Garcia

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) – Tomorrow might be Martin Luther King Jr. Day, but honoring Dr. King started on Sunday with a gathering at Colorado College for an educational panel, earlier this evening with a special guest, his only granddaughter.

And who better to learn from than a descendant of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. himself?

Panelists of all ages had the opportunity to engage in conversation with the young activist, 17-year-old Yolanda King, and ask her questions.

“I don’t think any of us expected that we would be able to discuss and have conversations like this with someone whose legacy has stretched so far,” says Teiona Dantzler, a panelist.

“I am elated to be able to have this opportunity and now take what I am going to learn and pick up from this experience and carry it on within the Colorado Springs community, within the Pueblo community, and also in Denver as well,” says Nicole Simmons-Rochon, an event mediator.

The choir sang gospel music to commemorate Dr. King’s pastor days, and his granddaughter spoke on what it means to carry on the legacy of non-violence, while also reminding young kids that age is just a number.

“Activism is about using your platform for good. It’s not a oh, let the adults handle this. Even if you’ve been told that. I’ve been told that a bunch of times. And that hasn’t stopped me,” says Yolanda King.

However, the celebration is not over just yet.

Tomorrow, the Martin Luther King Legacy Preservation Society will be participating in a unity march starting at 7 A.M. from the Antlers Hotel on 4 S. Cascade Ave to Acacia Park.

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21-year-old arrested for breaking in, vandalizing Pueblo West public library

KRDO on January 19, 2026

Michael Logerwell

PUEBLO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) – It was more than a broken window, but that’s what first drew Pueblo County Sheriff’s Deputies to the Pueblo West Library Sunday morning.

At 8:15 in the morning, sheriff’s deputies arrived at the library to find the front window smashed in by several rocks. After retrieving a key to the building, the deputies went further inside.

Inside the library, the sheriff’s office reports that deputies discovered significant damage to several computers, office equipment, machines, and the person claiming responsibility, 21-year-old Boden White.

According to the sheriff’s office, after being detained, White admitted to breaking in and causing the damage, which is estimated at $10,000.

White is now facing charges of second-degree burglary, criminal mischief, and second-degree trespassing.

Previously, White made headlines as a standout wrestler for Pueblo County High School.

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California man seriously injured in Pulaski County crash Sunday morning

KMIZ on January 19, 2026

Nia Hinson

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

An Elverta, California man was seriously injured in a crash in Pulaski County on Sunday morning.

According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol crash report, the crash occurred around 8 a.m. at the 150 mile marker on Interstate 44. The report says the 59-year-old was driving a 1998 Kenworth truck eastbound, when it crashed into the back of a 2021 Volvo.

The man was taken to Phelphs Health with serious injuries.

The driver of the other vehicle– a 25-year-old Brampton, Ontario man– was not injured in the crash.

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Faith leaders report growing community interest in the Valley

KESQ on January 19, 2026

Timothy Foster

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – National surveys show religious participation across the United States has remained largely unchanged in recent years. After decades of decline, researchers say there is no clear evidence of a widespread religious revival, particularly among young adults.

But in the Coachella Valley, some local faith leaders say they are seeing increased engagement, with more people attending services and becoming involved in faith-based communities.

According to the Pew Research Center, religious affiliation and attendance have held steady nationwide since about 2020. Younger adults continue to be less religious than older generations, and researchers caution that local increases do not necessarily reflect a broader national trend.

Despite that, faith leaders in the valley report noticeable growth.

Danny Labin, Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Federation of the Desert, says many people who move to the area actively seek out faith communities as a way to build connections. He also notes that concerns about rising antisemitism have led some individuals to turn toward community spaces for support rather than isolating themselves.

Christian leaders across the valley describe similar patterns.

At Saint Margaret’s Episcopal Church, Rector Andrew Butler says attendance has increased in recent months, including among younger people and families, which stands out in a region known for its large retiree population.

Pastor Jane Voigts of the United Methodist Church says many people are returning to church in search of comfort, stability, and a sense of belonging during uncertain and divisive times.

Faith leaders also acknowledge that national politics have influenced how some people perceive Christianity. Butler says the close association between Christianity, partisan politics, and the Trump administration has caused some people to hesitate before engaging with churches. He adds that movements tied to white Christian nationalism have negatively affected public perceptions of Christianity by creating the impression that all Christians share the same beliefs.

While national data shows religion remains stable overall, local leaders say the need for community, connection, and hope is clearly present in the Coachella Valley.

Whether the increase in engagement will continue long term is unclear, but faith leaders say their communities are currently serving as important spaces for support as people navigate an uncertain world.

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Ridgeway man killed in crash after losing control of truck on Harrison County road

News-Press NOW on January 19, 2026

Cameron Montemayor

HARRISON COUNTY, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — A 46-year-old man from Ridgeway, Missouri, was killed in a single-vehicle crash Sunday morning after losing control of his truck on a county road near Eagleville, Missouri.

The fatal crash occurred around 7:50 a.m. Sunday roughly 2.5 miles south of Eagleville when a man driving a 1986 Ford F150 was attempting to turn north from East 230th Avenue onto East 240th Avenue.

The driver, a 46-year-old man from Ridgeway, Missouri, lost control of the vehicle and began skidding off the road before overturning onto its driver’s side, where it came to rest facing south.

The man, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was pronounced dead at the scene at 8:30 a.m.

The man’s next of kin have been notified according to the report.

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Mesa Ridge diver breaks 31-year pool record… twice

KRDO on January 19, 2026

Bradley Davis

Mesa Ridge Senior Hailey Lewis finds her peace in the fractions of seconds between leaving the diving board and hitting the water.

“It gives me something to focus on, and it’s mind-clearing,” Hailey said.

“She just goes for it. She’s always been that way,” said Hailey’s mother, Danielle.

Hailey only started diving competitively three years ago. Unlike most successful divers who don’t start until high school, she entered the sport with no gymnastics background.

“I don’t even know how to explain how she got into it,” Danielle said.

“It’s really hard to find young athletes who are as dedicated to Hailey,” said Widefield Grizzliators dive coach Tristan Riffe, the consolidated dive team between Mesa Ridge and Widefield District 3.

For Hailey, seconds… turned to hours… turned to years. In the end, it only took her three to take down the Grizzliators pool record that had stood for over three decades.

“I was shocked because [coach Riffe] didn’t tell me right away,” Hailey said. “But I had my suspicions because he was running away all crazy.”

“Ah, yes. That would be myself… Haha,” Riffe said.

“I tried to keep my cool,” Riffe said. “But for her six-dive record, it was on senior night, and that kind of elevated everything.”

Riffe was in good company.

“I’m a mom. I screamed. I probably hurt some eardrums,” Danielle said.

Danielle made sure to write Hailey’s record down. She brought it on a laminated card to the interview with KRDO13.

“This is absolutely going to go up there for her,” Danielle said while standing underneath the Widefield Community Center pool record wall.

The girls’ diving record cards have collected dust for 31 years. In just five days, Hailey reset the clock twice.

“Finding out she broke the 11-dive record by 28 points was absolutely astonishing,” Riffe said.

After breaking the six-dive record Tuesday on Senior Night, Hailey smashed the 11-dive record on Saturday.

“So many hugs, and it was so much. It was incredible,” Hailey said.

“She had it. She has her moment, and it’s the greatest joy a parent could ever ask for,” Danielle said.

After Mesa Ridge, Danielle and Riffe said Hailey will leave behind much more than just her records.

“She’s the type of person that you will always hear her voice before she leaves the board, knowing that she’s supporting you,” Riffe said.

“I know she’s leaving a legacy of motivation and encouragement for the future generation that she will leave behind her,” Danielle said.

It’s been a wild few days for Hailey.

“Best week ever?” I asked.

“Probably,” Hailey said.

Her legacy could be another 30-year record, or it could be the next record, captured by one of Hailey’s peers, after being inspired by Hailey to aim higher… and dive deeper.

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Man shot in southwest Columbia Sunday night, suspect not in custody

KMIZ on January 19, 2026

Nia Hinson

COLUMBIA, MO. (KMIZ)

One person was shot in southwest Columbia Sunday night, according to Lt. Shawn Claypool with the Columbia Police Department.

Claypool said a suspect is not in custody and police are unsure of how many people were involved in the shooting.

Columbia Police later posted on social media saying police responded to the 1400 Block of Ridgemont Court around 8:15 p.m. and found a man with life-threatening injuries. The man was taken to a local hospital, the release says.

Police said a suspect is not in custody but claim there is no known active threat to the community.

An ABC 17 News reporter saw several Columbia Police Department vehicles and crime scene tape up near the area of Highridge Drive and Ridgemont Court around 8:30 p.m.

This is the fifth shooting this year.

ABC 17 News is working to learn more information.

Check back for updates.

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