Author: CNN Newsource

By Jacqueline Policastro | Quincy News Correspondent

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    Washington (Quincy News) — Stocks rallied and Treasury yields fell Wednesday after Democrats won control of Congress, as investors bet a divided government would limit major changes to economic policy.

Economists interviewed by Quincy News cautioned that the election offers no quick fix for high prices. Both see a case for the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates in December, potentially extending the pressure on borrowers.

The Dow climbed about 1,500 points, or 3.09%, by mid-afternoon Wednesday. The S&P 500 gained 1.8% and the Nasdaq Composite rose 1.9%.

The benchmark 10-year Treasury yield fell to about 4.92% earlier in the morning, while the dollar weakened.

Solar shares advanced, while some chipmakers and companies tied to data centers fell on concerns about greater scrutiny of artificial intelligence development.

Wall Street gains do not reach everyone

David Kass, a clinical professor of finance at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, said investors welcomed the decisive election outcome and the prospect of fewer sweeping policy changes.

“It removes uncertainty,” Kass told Quincy News.

He expects investors to return their attention to corporate earnings and interest rates, which he considers the main drivers of stock prices. He does not expect the election itself to significantly change either in the short term.

For households, the benefits of a rally are uneven. People with stocks, including workplace retirement accounts, can gain wealth as markets rise. Those without investments remain focused on grocery bills, gasoline prices and whether their paychecks cover their expenses, Kass said.

“The issue of affordability is a major issue and I think it was a major voting issue,” he said.

Kass said both parties face pressure to deliver results before the 2028 election. Democrats will control Congress, but President Donald Trump can block legislation with his veto.

He also sees a possible benefit for technology shareholders if greater scrutiny slows AI data-center construction. Companies spending heavily on infrastructure could borrow less and retain more cash, easing some investors’ concerns about the cost of expansion.

On interest rates, Kass expects the Fed to raise its benchmark rate by a quarter of a percentage point in December, depending on the economic reports released before the meeting.

“I think there’s sufficient justification for raising rates, a quarter of a point in December,” he said.

Kass said Fed Chair Kevin Warsh needs to establish his credibility by making decisions in the country’s economic interest despite political pressure over borrowing costs.

Congress cannot deliver an overnight fix

David Mitchell, a professor of economics and director of the Bureau of Economic Research at Missouri State University, said the election changes who writes economic policy, but not how quickly that policy takes effect.

Mitchell, who provided economic forecasts to the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City for a decade through 2019, drew a distinction between Congress’ power to shape the economy through legislation and the Fed’s influence on borrowing costs.

Congress sets “the rules of the game,” he told Quincy News. He added that changes to those rules can take years to affect businesses and households and that lawmakers taking office in January cannot quickly reverse the financial pressures voters face.

Divided government could encourage compromise, he said, adding, “You have to have some kind of compromise if you want to have anything passed.”

Mitchell also favors a December rate increase, though he is uncertain whether policymakers will act.

He said inflation becomes harder to control once households and businesses expect prices to keep rising. Those expectations influence wage demands and other economic decisions, prolonging the problem.

“You can’t just flip a switch and turn it off,” he said.

For Mitchell, persistent inflation carries a political cost as well as a financial one.

“Inflation erodes trust in government and social institutions,” he said.

The Fed meets next on Dec. 8 and 9, with an interest-rate decision and updated economic projections due on Dec. 9.

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.

By WKTV Staff

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    Oneida County (WKTV) — Updated Information 11/3; 1:53 a.m.—An arrest has been made in connection to the incident.

According to the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, on Nov. 3, Tasha Van Dayne turned herself in to deputies.

She was arrested and released with an appearance ticket for reckless endangerment, a misdemeanor.

Van Dayne is scheduled to appear in Kirkland Town Court on Nov. 16.

11/3; 11:15 a.m.—According to the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, a five-year-old child was “dragged by a school bus” on Nov. 2.

The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies responded to Martin Drive in the Town of Kirkland.

“It was reported that Tasha Van Dayne, 37, of Clinton, was operating a 2023 full-size IC-Bus for the Clinton Central School District on her afternoon route, which stopped at the child’s residence and multiple children exited the bus,” according to the Sheriff’s Office.

Van Dayne closed the bus door as the last child left.

The child’s backpack “became trapped in the bus doors,” and the child was “dragged a distance” before the bus stopped, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

The child suffered minor injuries.

The investigation is ongoing.

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By John Herrick

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    INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A former Indianapolis postal carrier has been sentenced to 6 1/2 years in federal prison for stealing millions of dollars in checks from the mail and selling them to co-conspirators in a fraud scheme that affected about 6,500 victims, federal prosecutors said.

Destinee Ruffin, 29, also was sentenced to two years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and theft of mail.

According to court documents, Ruffin worked as a letter carrier at the Bacon Station Post Office from April 2020 through May 2022. During that time, she used her access to incoming and outgoing mail to steal checks and sell them to others.

The investigation began in spring 2020 after a customer reported never receiving an Economic Impact Payment check issued by the federal government. Additional complaints followed. Investigators with the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General matched the missing checks to delivery routes and determined they had been assigned to Ruffin.

Investigators later used controlled Treasury checks with recorded serial numbers to trace stolen checks back to Ruffin’s delivery route.

Ruffin sold stolen checks to co-conspirators Tony McMullen and John Young, who organized networks of individuals to deposit altered checks into bank accounts and withdraw the proceeds.

McMullen received more than $235,000 in stolen checks from Ruffin. He recruited people through social media to deposit altered checks and provide debit cards, personal identification numbers or online banking credentials. McMullen fraudulently negotiated 36 checks stolen from the Bacon Station Post Office, according to court records.

Ruffin also supplied Young with more than $12 million in stolen checks. Young used intermediaries to recruit account holders and arrange deposits. He also advertised stolen checks for sale through the messaging application Telegram.

The scope of the operation became clearer in April 2024, when investigators executed search warrants at Ruffin’s vehicle, residence, on her person and on electronic devices. Authorities discovered thousands of stolen checks valued at more than $20 million that had not yet been sold.

Stolen mail was found throughout her vehicle and residence, including on shelves, in closets, on the floor, in corners and in the bathroom, prosecutors said.

The scheme caused significant financial and personal hardship for victims. In one case, a woman mailed a $1,618 check to the Sheet Metal Workers Local Union No. 20 Welfare and Benefit Fund to maintain her retired husband’s health insurance. When the payment failed to arrive, the insurance was terminated. The woman learned of the problem when she arrived for a scheduled surgery and was told the procedure had to be canceled.

Federal prosecutors estimate approximately 6,500 people were affected by the scheme.

Three other defendants have been sentenced. McMullen, 36, of Calumet Park, Illinois, received two years and nine months in prison and three years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $121,270.30 in restitution.

Eric Hollis, 23, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to one year and one day in prison and three years of supervised release. His restitution was set at $117,275.30.

Kendall Thompson, 24, of Indianapolis, received a four-month prison sentence and three years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $9,320.05 in restitution.

Young, 24, of Indianapolis, pleaded guilty to attempted and conspiracy to commit mail fraud and three counts of bank fraud. His sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 3, 2026.

U.S. Attorney Tom Wheeler said the scheme affected thousands of households and undermined public trust in the postal system.

“By stealing millions of dollars’ worth of checks from the mail, Ruffin and her co-conspirators disrupted critical benefits, jeopardized family finances, and caused real harm to individuals who depended on timely delivery for essential needs,” Wheeler said.

The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration.

U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker imposed the sentences. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Eakman prosecuted the case.

Federal prosecutors said the case was part of the Trump administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a governmentwide effort to address fraud, waste and abuse involving federal benefit programs.

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By Tim Wolak

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    VAN BUREN COUNTY, Michigan (WBND-LD) — A Van Buren County man is facing several charges after being arrested following a multi-agency investigation into illegal deer poaching.

The Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office reports on Sunday deputies received a be-on-the-lookout alert for a vehicle suspected of being involved with the illegal poaching around 60th Avenue and 48th Street in Lawrence Township.

Authorities say they found the suspect vehicle hidden behind some pine trees.

The report states as a deputy approached the vehicle, the driver fled into the woods with a rifle while the passenger stayed. Deputies used a drone to try finding the suspect but were unable to. Authorities did find a deer that had been shot in a nearby field.

The investigation moved forward, assisted by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Law enforcement soon found more deer that had been shot in the area.

Investigators determined the suspect was in the Lawton area. When deputies tried to talk with the man at a residence, he fled again, jumping from a second-story window and running into the woods.

Deputies along with K9 Charlie attempted to track the suspect without success before expanding the search. Deputies then learned the suspect fled toward another nearby home.

A deputy and K9 Charlie ran into him near the home, at which point the suspect fled again. The deputy and K9 chased him back into the woods where another deputy was. The suspect was subsequently arrested.

The suspect, identified as Justin Ernst, suffered minor injuries from briars and was checked by medics on scene before being taken to the Van Buren County Jail.

Ernst is charged with seven counts of Resisting and Obstructing, Felony Firearm Offenses, and Driving-Related Offenses. The DNR is continuing its investigation into the alleged game violations.

Ernst’s bond was set at $500,000 after being arraigned in the 7th District Court in Paw Paw.

The sheriff’s office notes there was no ongoing threat to the community during this incident.

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By Francis Page Jr.

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    November 4, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — ATLANTA, GEORGIA — November 4, 2026 — History has spoken, and Georgia has answered with a resounding declaration of progress!

Keisha Lance Bottoms, Atlanta’s former mayor and a nationally recognized Democratic leader, has defeated Republican Rick Jackson to become Georgia’s first Black governor, its first woman governor, and the first Black woman ever elected governor of any U.S. state.

FIRST TO DO IT. FIRST TO LEAD. FIRST TO MAKE HISTORY!

In a state deeply intertwined with America’s civil rights movement, Bottoms’ remarkable victory represents far more than a political triumph. It symbolizes generations of perseverance, expanding opportunity, and the extraordinary power of the ballot.

From the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to the voter mobilization efforts of Stacey Abrams, Georgia’s journey toward broader political representation has reached another historic milestone.

Bottoms, who previously served as Atlanta’s mayor and a senior adviser in the Biden administration, now prepares to lead one of America’s most economically influential states.

Her campaign emphasized affordable healthcare, economic opportunity, voting rights, and stronger communities, presenting a vision of government that works for everyday Georgians.

For Black women across America, her election sends an unmistakable message: Leadership has no ceiling, and history has no expiration date.

For readers of Houston Style Magazine, Georgia’s groundbreaking election offers a powerful reminder that democracy thrives when citizens participate.

Georgia made history. America witnessed it. And democracy moved forward!

Learn more: Keisha Lance Bottoms on Facebook

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kierra lee
KIELEESTYLE@GMAIL.COM
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By Francis Page Jr.

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    November 4, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — WASHINGTON, D.C. — November 4, 2026 — History has a remarkable way of reminding America that ceilings are made to be shattered, traditions are meant to evolve, and progress sometimes arrives carrying a congressional gavel.

Congressman Hakeem Sekou Jeffries has emerged from the 2026 midterm elections positioned to become the first African American Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, marking an extraordinary milestone in the nation’s 237-year congressional history.

With Democrats reclaiming control of the House, Jeffries stands poised to become America’s 57th Speaker, leading the 120th Congress, which begins January 3, 2027. FIRST to do it. FIRST to lead. FIRST to make history.

And for millions of Americans who have watched generations struggle to turn constitutional promises into everyday realities, this moment symbolizes more than politics.

It represents possibility. From Brooklyn Beginnings to Congressional History Born in Brooklyn, New York, on August 4, 1970, Hakeem Jeffries built his career on education, public service and an enduring commitment to economic opportunity.

A graduate of Binghamton University, Georgetown University and New York University School of Law, Jeffries served in the New York State Assembly before winning election to Congress in 2012.

His groundbreaking journey accelerated in 2022 when House Democrats elected him their leader, making Jeffries the first Black lawmaker to lead a major political party in either chamber of Congress.

Now, with the Democratic victory, America’s next great congressional milestone stands within reach. Standing on the Shoulders of Giants Jeffries’ historic breakthrough echoes the extraordinary contributions of Frederick Douglass, Shirley Chisholm, John Lewis, and Houston’s own legendary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan.

Jordan, whose commanding voice and constitutional brilliance helped define American leadership during the Watergate era, understood that democracy demands participation, accountability and courage.

Her legacy lives in every barrier challenged and every new door opened.

For Houston’s African American communities, Jeffries’ rise represents another powerful chapter in the ongoing story of Black political achievement. More Than a Gavel — A New Generation of Possibility As Speaker, Jeffries would become one of America’s most influential elected officials, directing House legislative business and standing second in the presidential line of succession, behind the vice president.

His leadership would bring national attention to economic affordability, healthcare access, educational opportunity, voting rights and government accountability.

The challenges will be substantial. Congressional divisions will not disappear overnight.

But historic leadership has never required an easy road. It requires the courage to travel one. Houston Celebrates a Historic American First For Houston Style Magazine, which has documented African American excellence and community achievement since 1989, this milestone reflects the enduring promise of representation.

From Houston’s Third Ward and Fifth Ward to classrooms, churches and neighborhoods throughout America, young people can envision leadership at the highest levels of government.

Hakeem Jeffries has already made history as the first Black congressional party leader. Now America stands ready for another historic first.

The voters have spoken. A new congressional chapter awaits. And the next generation is watching. Official Website: jeffries.house.gov Congressional History: history.house.gov/People/Office/Speakers Houston Style Magazine: stylemagazine.com

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kierra lee
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3465287733

By Richard C. Vara

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    November 4, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — Sometimes, the brightest futures are forged in the hottest fires. Just ask Janice Blount, a determined Houston mother of four whose remarkable journey from financial uncertainty to classroom leadership proves that resilience, opportunity, and a little welding sparks can create something extraordinary.

Today, the proud Houston City College (HCC) welding graduate teaches introductory welding and Welding I at the Barbara Jordan Career Center, where 76 teenagers are discovering that skilled hands, strong minds, and determination can open doors to meaningful careers.

But Blount’s success story wasn’t built overnight.

For years, the single mother worked demanding shifts at FedEx, the U.S. Postal Service, and airport security, frequently juggling multiple jobs to provide for her children. Despite earning an associate degree from San Jacinto College, financial security remained elusive.

Then came a career-changing spark.

While working as a fire watch, monitoring industrial operations for potential hazards, Blount became fascinated by the welders around her. Their precision, concentration, and marketable skills inspired her to consider an entirely different professional future.

“I have never been more economically stable in my adult life than I’ve been now,” Blount proudly shared. Breaking Barriers, Building Opportunities Entering HCC’s welding program in her 30s required courage, sacrifice, and something equally important: support.

Through HCC’s partnership with the YMCA, childcare assistance helped Blount attend classes while caring for her children. The college’s Eagle Market provided essential groceries and household supplies, easing the pressures faced by working parents pursuing higher education.

“If it were not for that, I would not have been able to complete school because I don’t have that village,” she explained.

The classroom brought challenges of its own. Heat, burns, and unfamiliar welding techniques occasionally brought frustration and tears.

Yet instructor Samuel Sutton and other HCC educators refused to let discouragement have the final word.

“And the patience that they had with me is what kept me going,” Blount recalled.

That commitment extended beyond graduation, with instructors providing recommendations and interview preparation that helped Blount transition into teaching. From Student to Mentor: A Full-Circle Moment Today, Blount’s transformation represents something larger than personal achievement. It reflects the historical importance of community colleges in expanding economic opportunity, particularly for working parents and adults seeking second careers.

Her success also highlights Houston’s longstanding connection to skilled trades supporting construction, manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure.

HCC currently offers welding degrees and certificates, including structural, pipe, and automated welding pathways. The college reports a Greater Houston median welding-related salary of approximately $52,776, although individual earnings vary. Houston City College For Blount, however, the greatest reward cannot be measured in dollars.

After years of 12- to 16-hour workdays, she can finally attend her children’s games, meetings, and special moments.

“I’ve lost a lot of time with my children, and I mean a lot, and you don’t get that time back,” she reflected.

Now, she offers students the encouragement that once changed her own life.

“I am now that person,” she said.

Her advice to aspiring students is refreshingly straightforward: “I would encourage them to challenge themselves, do their research and go for it.”

For Janice Blount, welding didn’t simply connect pieces of metal. It connected education with opportunity, motherhood with stability, and personal perseverance with a new generation’s possibilities.

And that’s a Houston success story worth celebrating.

Learn more: Houston City College Welding Technology Programs

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kierra lee
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3465287733

By Nijzel Dotson

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    SACRAMENTO (KCRA) — Federal charges have been filed against a Sacramento postal employee, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California. The employee is accused of delaying and obstructing the delivery of political campaign mail.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office said 35-year-old Antoine Rashad Polite was employed as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service in Sacramento County and was responsible for the delivery of mail along a specific route.

According to court documents, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said, Polite improperly withheld and delayed the delivery of hundreds of pieces of political mail intended for residents on his route between Sept. 23 and Oct. 27. This included campaign materials relating to candidates and ballot propositions appearing on the Nov. 3 election ballot.

When postal management discovered approximately 493 pieces of political mail placed in an area designated for undeliverable bulk business mail, an investigation began, officials said. Those pieces of mail were supposed to go to deliverable addresses on Polite’s route.

An additional 527 pieces of political mail were found in “undeliverable mail” containers inside Polite’s postal vehicle, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said. Many of the pieces of mail were reportedly labeled as vacant or undeliverable and had the addresses marked through despite postal officials determining the addresses were valid and deliverable.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office said postal officials recovered and delivered the vast majority of the mail the intended recipients.

Polite is facing a maximum penalty of six months in prison for obstruction of mail and one year in prison for the delay or destruction of mail.

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