Weather

Events

March 16th

• Provo UT - House of Desires - Sat, Mar 16, 2 PM – Sun, Mar 17, 8 AM

• 2024 Utah Valley String Festival - Sat, Mar 16, 9 AM – 4 PM

March 17th

• Makeup Masterclass (for models) - Sun Mar 17 2024 at 10:00 am to 02:00 pm (GMT-06:00)

• Let's Meditate (Sunday) - Sun Mar 17 2024 at 11:30am

Local News

Jury Convicts Matt Frank Hoover of Aggravated Murder in Killing of Provo Officer

Matt Frank Hoover has been found guilty of aggravated murder by an eight-person jury in connection with the killing of Provo police officer Joseph Shinners. Shinners was shot while attempting to arrest Hoover, who had outstanding warrants, in January 2019. The jury deliberated for four hours before delivering the verdict, which also included guilty findings on charges of possession of a dangerous weapon and failure to stop at the command of police, among others. Hoover's defense attorney argued for a lesser charge, contending that the incident was the result of reckless actions rather than intentional murder. However, prosecutors presented evidence suggesting Hoover's deliberate and knowing actions, including prior social media posts expressing animosity towards law enforcement. Shinners' wife expressed relief at the trial's conclusion but emphasized that no verdict could bring her husband back. Hoover is scheduled to be sentenced on June 4.

BYU Adds Controversial 'Musket Fire' Speech to Curriculum, LGBTQ+ Concerns Arise

Brigham Young University (BYU) has included Elder Jeffrey R. Holland's controversial "musket fire speech" in its general education curriculum for new students. The speech, emphasizing traditional marriage and the defense of LDS gospel, has sparked concerns among the LGBTQ+ community at BYU. Despite the university's assertion of creating a welcoming environment, groups like the RaYnbow Collective express deep worry over the speech's potential to harm queer students.

National News

Pence Declines to Endorse Trump for 2024 Presidency: "Profound Differences" Cited

Former Vice President Mike Pence announced in an interview with Fox News that he will not be endorsing former President Donald Trump for the 2024 presidential race. Pence highlighted differences between himself and Trump on various issues, particularly regarding the events of January 6 and conservative values. Pence declined to reveal whom he would vote for but stated that he would not support Joe Biden. He also ruled out a third-party presidential run and criticized Trump's policy reversals, including on TikTok and China.

Former Connecticut State Trooper Acquitted in Shooting Death of Black College Student After Chase

Former Connecticut state trooper Brian North was acquitted of all charges in the shooting death of Mubarak Soulemane, a Black 19-year-old college student. Soulemane was shot while sitting behind the wheel of a stolen car holding a kitchen knife during a mental health crisis. The shooting occurred after a high-speed chase and crash, with North claiming self-defense. The verdict drew criticism from Soulemane's family and community activists, who questioned the use of force.

International News

Royal Rift: Prince William and Kate Middleton's Image Falters Amid Controversies

A series of events since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Oprah interview, including a controversial digitally altered Mother's Day photo and a lack of transparency from Kensington Palace, have raised concerns and speculation about Prince William and Kate Middleton's image. While the couple initially engaged in a more relaxed and affectionate public persona post-Oprah interview, recent controversies and a return to formality have led to questions about their strategy and connection with the public.

Netanyahu Approves Israeli Military Ground Operation in Gaza's Rafah

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved plans for the country's military to conduct a ground operation in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza, despite pressure from U.S. President Joe Biden to use restraint. The operation comes in response to an attack by Hamas in October 2023, with the IDF preparing for both military action and the evacuation of civilians. Netanyahu also dismissed a cease-fire proposal by Hamas as "unrealistic," emphasizing the need to address security concerns. The conflict has escalated, with significant damage caused by Israeli airstrikes, including targeting a residential tower allegedly used by Hamas militants.

College Sports

Spanish Fork Dons Set to Take on Wasatch Wasps in Soccer Showdown

Spanish Fork Dons will face off against the Wasatch Wasps in a soccer match on Thursday. Spanish Fork, with a 1-9 record against Wasatch since 2017, aims to narrow the gap. Both teams enter the game with momentum from recent victories. Spanish Fork secured a 2-0 win against Maple Mountain, led by Nathan Olson and Preston Condley. Wasatch, with a 3-0 record, clinched a close 2-1 victory over Timpview. The last encounter between Spanish Fork and Wasatch ended in a 2-0 loss for Spanish Fork in April 2023. Will Spanish Fork reverse the trend, or will Wasatch maintain their dominance?

No. 3 Texas Longhorns Crush BYU 13-0 in Big 12 Softball Opener

The No. 3 ranked Texas Longhorns dominated the BYU Cougars with a resounding 13-0 victory in the Big 12 series opener at McCombs Field. The game ended in just five innings due to the mercy rule, with Joley Mitchell, Katie Stewart, and Katie Cimusz contributing to the scoreboard, including Mitchell's three-run homer. Pitcher Mac Morgan's stellar performance, allowing only one hit and securing five innings, was crucial to Texas's success. Texas's aggressive baserunning and relentless batting order capitalized on BYU's defensive lapses, leading to steals and timely hits. Katie Cimusz's home run highlighted the Longhorns' offensive prowess, complemented by small ball tactics and strategic plays. The game showcased Texas's dominance and potential as a Big 12 powerhouse.

Tech Break

Elon Musk's Neuralink Implants Brain Chip in Human, Demonstrates Mind-Controlled Computer Mouse

Elon Musk's company Neuralink has achieved a significant milestone by implanting a brain chip in a human for the first time. The first patient has demonstrated the ability to control a computer mouse with their thoughts, showcasing the potential of Neuralink's technology. Musk revealed that Neuralink's initial products will focus on allowing people to control computers with their minds, followed by endeavors to restore sight to the blind and enhance cognitive abilities, including memory. The company's long-term goals include merging human minds with artificial intelligence. Neurotechnology has the potential to address various medical conditions, such as severe depression, epilepsy, and locked-in syndrome, offering hope for alleviating human suffering.

Laugh Lounge

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