San Bernardino County Sheriff Rod Hoops is retiring. The sheriff announced yesterday he’s stepping down to become an Executive Fellow with the Police Foundation in Washington, D.C. Hoops is recommending assistant Sheriff John McMahon as his replacement.

Mother Nature is showing the Northeast no mercy today. A powerful nor’easter is dumping snow and more misery on areas still reeling from last week’s brush with superstorm Sandy.

Former Representative Gabrielle Giffords who is recovering from being shot in Tucson, in 2011 by Jared Lee Loughner is expected to attend his sentencing today. He’ll be sentenced to seven consecutive life terms with no chance of parole.

The Democratic party has captured super-majorities in both houses of the state Legislature. Democrats gained two seats in the Senate and four in the Assembly, giving them the state’s first simultaneous super-majority since 1933. This means Democrats will be able to pass tax increases without needing Republican support.

Average gas prices have fallen below four dollars a gallon for the first time since the summer. Triple-A says the average price for regular unleaded gasoline in the Inland Empire is now three dollars, 92 cents.

Investors are looking for a recovery after stocks finished Wednesday way down. The dow jones lost 313 points. Stock futures are up this morning.

Walmart is giving holiday shoppers another reason to be thankful this year. It’s moving “Black Friday” up to Thanksgiving night. Walmart says it’ll offer its best deals beginning at 8 p.m. on Thanksgiving.