Christmas shoppers, strong economy combine for big retail sales

Americans buoyed by a strong economy pushed holiday sales growth to a six-year high. Retail sales rose 5.1 percent between Nov. 1 and Dec. 24 from a year ago, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse. Total sales topped $850 billion this year, Mastercard said.

Readers sound off on horse racing’s biggest problems

I asked for your thoughts on horse racing’s worst problems as we turn the calendar to 2019 and boy did you respond. I heard from ardent horseplayers, workers in the industry and even a few people who don’t give a damn about the sport.

Loyal GOP vote includes big block of Latinos despite Trump policies

Though Latino voters are a key part of the Democratic coalition, there is a larger bloc of reliable Republican Latinos than many think. And the GOP’s position among Latinos has not weakened during the Trump administration.

Government shutdown likely to stretch into next week or beyond

Federal employees were headed for a long government shutdown after Congress returned to the Capitol on Thursday and promptly adjourned after negotiations with the White House broke down with no clear path to resolve the impasse.

Elvis Presley items to go on auction at Graceland

Items associated with Elvis Presley will once again be on the auction block at Graceland as part of a celebration of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s birthday.

California officer’s killer is in US illegally, sheriff says

A gunman who killed a California police officer during a traffic stop over possible drunken driving is in the United States illegally, authorities said Thursday, as a manhunt for the attacker stretched into a second day.

Chicago man accused of throwing dogs off balcony on Christmas Eve

CHICAGO — A suburban Chicago man accused of throwing two small dogs off a second-floor balcony, killing the 17-year-old Chihuahua and causing the other dog to run away, has been charged with felony aggravated cruelty.