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As the U.S. and Israel round out a fifth week of war with Iran, some 93 million civilians living inside Iran are stuck in a conflict zone without a missile alert system or access to the internet. Another 4 million people of Iranian origin worldwide are cut off from their friends and family still in Iran. 

While the Islamic Republic has left its own people in the dark, Holistic Resilience, a group of engineers focused on internet freedom, is using an app called Mahsa Alert to light the way.

The app is named after Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian woman who died in 2022 after an arrest by Iran’s “morality police.” This group regularly detains women it believes do not comply with the country’s mandatory hair-covering laws. Her death became the impetus for widespread protests after decades of oppression. Amini’s image is now a symbol of what has become known as the Woman, Life, Freedom movement.

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Holistic Resilience said it first recognized the lack of civilian protections during the 12-day war between Israel and Iran in June 2025.

Millions of civilians living inside Iran are stuck in a conflict zone without a missile alert system or access to the internet. (Fatemeh Bahrami/Anadolu via Getty Images)

“They’re checking on the surroundings of their loved ones’ neighborhoods to make sure there is no location that could be potentially a target of these strikes and inform them to stay away from them,” said Ahmad Ahmadian, the executive director of Holistic Resilience.

Using crowdsourcing and open-source intelligence, volunteers analyze about 100 tips a day for validity and accuracy. These reports can come in the form of social media videos or photos or messages on Telegram. They also pore through footage from some 18,000 CCTV cameras around the country.

As the 17th-largest country in the world by area, Iran presents a significant mapping challenge.

“We have to be up to be able to immediately push out that notification. The last one was, I guess, in the middle of the night,” said Ahmadian. “I have colleagues that are working near 16 hours on this project. We have been self-funding this project from the beginning, and we never stopped doing that despite all of the challenges. The reason for that is it’s something that people need to have, and it saves lives.”

Internet connectivity in Iran estimated at less than 1%. (Majid Saeedi/Getty Images)

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The Israel Defense Forces occasionally posts evacuation notices on its Farsi-language X account. A previous post from the account shows warnings like: “In the coming hours, the IDF will operate in the area, as it has in recent days across Tehran, to strike military infrastructure of the Iranian regime. For your safety and well-being, we ask that you immediately leave the area indicated on the map.”

With internet connectivity in Iran estimated at less than 1%, Israeli evacuation notices often fail to reach the civilians they are intended to aid.

Civilians who evacuate to towns or cities they are unfamiliar with can use the Mahsa Alert app as a critical lifeline, identifying hospitals, blood banks, government checkpoints or shelters while offline.

“We’ve realized, OK, if people start to move around and get displaced, they need to see the essentials, the essential locations,” said Ahmadian.

The Iranian government is prioritizing its objectives beyond its borders over its own people, according to Holistic Resilience.

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“Instead of the sirens, sending crisis alerts to the mass population, every day they’re sending text messages by the Ministry of Intelligence threatening people, [saying] if you share information with others, we will know about it and we’ll come after you,” said Ahmadian.

As the 17th-largest country in the world by area, Iran presents a significant mapping challenge. (Morteza Nikoubazl/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

The government has accused those volunteering information to the platform of acting as Israeli spies or gathering intelligence for the U.S. military. The group has come under attack from the Iranian government, both from hacking and from deliberately sending misinformation to undermine the group’s credibility. Palo Alto Networks’ Unit 42 has reported a widespread increase in cyberthreat activity by Iranian actors since the conflict began in late February.

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In one instance, Ahmadian said a tip alleged missiles were being launched from a specific building, which the group later identified as a girls’ dormitory at a university. He said the group believed the tip may have been intended to mislead targeting, giving the Iranian government ammunition for its anti-Israel and anti-U.S. media campaign, though this could not be independently verified by FOX Business.

“By increasing the number of civilian casualties, they pump up their propaganda war,” Ahmadian said. “This is not our war. This has never been our war.”

WWDC 2026 is right around the corner, and iOS 27 is already one of the most talked-about operating systems anticipated at the event. Based on new rumors, there would be fewer extravagant design changes to how it looks as Apple is going deeper with this development.

Here are the top five features that many are expecting to arrive in the update.

Apple Intelligence

iOS 27 will reportedly bring a new wave of Apple Intelligence-powered features, including an AI-powered web search platform via Safari that Apple is building internally to compete with tools like Perplexity.

Apple recently finalized its deal with Google to use Gemini models for new Siri and Apple Intelligence features. This includes Siri gaining the ability to remember past conversations and offer proactive suggestions tied to your calendar and daily routines.

Potential Liquid Glass Revamp

iOS 26 introduced the Liquid Glass design, but it saw mixed reviews from the public as some loved it, while others disapproved of the new look.

That said, recent claims say that iOS 27 may feature a revamp to this design language and give users what they want. According to new reports, Apple has been working on a slider that will let users control the intensity of the Liquid Glass effect.

It was revealed that this feature was previously considered by Apple for the iOS 26 release cycle, but the company’s development ran into issues.

While no full redesign is expected, a slider would significantly help users who do not like the translucent effect that the Liquid Glass design delivered. That said, it remains unknown if the feature will make it to the iOS 27 build.

Siri Revamp

Various reports claim that Apple is planning to deliver massive upgrades to Siri in the upcoming unveiling of iOS 27 via WWDC 2026.

According to 9to5Mac, reports mentioned that an animated version of the Finder logo is being tested internally, alongside Memoji-like characters.

Combined with Gemini-powered features, Siri’s new features and technology may finally be the version that the world has been waiting for after massive delays plagued its development.

Foldable Features

Speculations have also claimed that the iPhone Fold is coming later this year. Because of this, reports are claiming that iOS 27 will bring new features that will accommodate the expanded screen of the device.

The device will reportedly have an approximately 7.8-inch inner display and a 5.5-inch outer display, similar to the iPad mini.

The iPhone Fold’s version of iOS 27 will reportedly give it side-by-side multitasking and let users have apps running on two separate windows, a feature that iPhones did not have before.

Bug Fixes

Apple’s primary goal with iOS 27 is quality and underlying performance. Engineers are going through the operating system looking for bloat to cut, bugs to fix, and ways to boost overall speed.

After several massive updates in a row, iOS 27 is Apple hitting the reset button before the next big push.

Originally published on Tech Times

Easter Sunday falls on April 5, 2026, prompting widespread retail closures across the United States as many major chains give employees the day off to observe the Christian holiday celebrating Jesus Christ’s resurrection. Shoppers scrambling for last-minute groceries, candy, baskets or household items should plan ahead, as several big-box and department stores will be shuttered while others maintain regular or modified hours.

Target stores will be closed nationwide on Easter Sunday, a consistent policy in recent years aimed at allowing associates time with family. The retailer, which operates nearly 2,000 locations, typically shuts its doors completely for the holiday, urging customers to complete purchases on Saturday or earlier in the weekend. Good Friday on April 3 will see most Target stores operating normal hours, providing a final window for Easter-related shopping.

Walmart, by contrast, plans to keep the vast majority of its stores open on Easter Sunday during regular business hours, which often run from early morning until late evening depending on location. The world’s largest retailer has made it a practice to remain accessible on major holidays for convenience, though some individual stores may adjust slightly based on local mall or shopping center policies. Shoppers should verify specific hours via the Walmart app or website, as variations can occur.

Costco warehouses and gas stations will be closed on April 5, 2026, as Easter is one of the seven annual holidays when the membership-based retailer shuts down entirely. This policy applies across U.S. locations, with warehouses typically open on Good Friday and Saturday for last-minute bulk purchases of groceries, meats, produce and other Easter essentials. Sam’s Club, a Walmart subsidiary, will also close its doors on Easter Sunday.

The pattern reflects a broader trend in American retail: many companies close on Easter to prioritize employee well-being and family time, while essential or high-volume retailers like Walmart stay open to serve communities. Grocery chains show mixed approaches. Aldi, Publix and H-E-B stores are expected to close, as will many regional players. Kroger and its affiliated banners, including Harris Teeter and Ralphs, generally plan to operate, though some locations may close early or offer reduced hours. Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods will be open in most areas, providing options for fresh produce, baked goods and prepared foods.

Home improvement retailers follow a similar split. Lowe’s will close all stores on Easter Sunday, while Home Depot is anticipated to remain open, often with shortened hours such as 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at many locations. This allows customers to pick up last-minute items for outdoor gatherings, egg hunts or home projects tied to the long weekend.

Department and specialty stores lean toward closure. Macy’s, Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack, Kohl’s, JCPenney, TJ Maxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods are among those expected to shut down, giving staff a rare full Sunday off. Best Buy, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Hobby Lobby, Michaels and Apple Stores will also close in observance of the holiday. Office Depot, OfficeMax, Staples and Burlington are similarly expected to remain dark.

Pharmacies and convenience options provide continuity for urgent needs. CVS, Walgreens and many Dollar General locations will stay open, though hours may be reduced compared to typical Sundays. Gas stations, 7-Eleven stores and some fast-food outlets like Wendy’s will operate normally, offering fuel, snacks and quick meals for families on the road or hosting gatherings.

Restaurants present another mixed picture. Chains such as Texas Roadhouse, The Cheesecake Factory, Yard House and Tim Hortons may open with standard or adjusted hours, while others could close or limit service to accommodate staff. Diners seeking brunch or family meals are advised to call ahead or check apps, as policies vary by location and franchise ownership.

The decision to close or open often stems from balancing customer demand with employee considerations. Retailers that close, such as Target and Costco, frequently highlight giving workers a paid holiday or extended family time. Those that remain open, like Walmart, emphasize convenience for shoppers who may need groceries, diapers, medications or other essentials during the four-day weekend that includes Good Friday and Easter Monday in some regions.

Shoppers in 2026 face additional context from ongoing economic pressures, including fluctuating fuel prices and cost-of-living concerns that have made careful budgeting important for holiday spending. Many families stock up earlier in the week or opt for online orders with curbside pickup where available. Walmart and Kroger, for instance, continue to offer robust digital services even on days when physical stores operate limited hours.

Regional variations and local laws can influence operations. In some states or municipalities, blue laws or local ordinances may further restrict alcohol sales or certain retail activities on Sundays and holidays. Independent or smaller businesses often follow their own schedules, with many choosing to close for the religious observance.

For those planning Easter activities — church services, egg hunts, family dinners or travel — advance preparation is key. Grocery lists should be completed by Saturday, when most closed stores will operate normal hours. Bulk retailers like Costco encourage members to shop Friday or Saturday for large quantities of ham, eggs, desserts and party supplies.

Retail analysts note that Easter closures have become more standardized in recent years as companies align policies around major holidays. Thanksgiving and Christmas see even broader shutdowns, but Easter remains a significant day for family-focused retailers to pause operations.

Government services, including most post offices and many motor vehicle offices, will also be closed on Easter Sunday, though some essential functions continue. Banks typically observe the holiday with no transactions, though ATMs and online banking remain available.

As April 5 approaches, consumers are urged to use store locators, mobile apps and official websites for the most accurate, location-specific information. Policies can shift due to unforeseen circumstances, and individual stores within a chain may differ slightly based on staffing or regional management decisions.

Easter 2026 offers a reminder of the balance between commerce and tradition. While Walmart provides a reliable open option for everyday needs, the widespread closures at Target, Costco and others underscore a collective pause for reflection and family. Shoppers who plan strategically — completing big purchases early and relying on open pharmacies or grocers for last-minute items — can navigate the holiday smoothly without disappointment.

In the end, whether hunting for chocolate bunnies, fresh flowers or a forgotten ingredient, knowing the landscape of open and closed stores helps turn potential frustration into a more peaceful celebration. Families across the country will mark the day in their own ways, supported by the retailers that choose to operate and resting those that do not.

Big ideas are easy to talk about. The hard part is making them real.

Kevin Hayes has built his career on doing exactly that. From law to lobbying, he has taken ideas, shaped them into plans, and followed through until they produced results.

His path shows how discipline, trust, and steady execution can turn vision into long-term impact.

“Achieving goals starts with a plan,” Hayes says. “You have to stay disciplined and stick to it.”

Early Life and Education: Where the Mindset Began

Kevin Hayes grew up in Metairie, Louisiana. His early life was rooted in structure, education, and responsibility.

He attended Jesuit High School in New Orleans. After graduating in 1983, he went on to Louisiana State University. While at LSU, he ran for student government president and finished as runner-up.

That experience gave him an early look at leadership and public decision-making.

He later earned his law degree from Southern University Law Center in 1991. But his law school years were shaped by personal loss.

“I lost my father during my senior year of law school,” Hayes says. “Later, I lost my mother too. That changes how you think about your path.”

Those moments forced him to focus. They also pushed him to think long term and stay grounded in his values.

Early Career in Law and Government

Hayes began his career in public service. He worked as General Counsel for the Louisiana Senate Commerce Committee. This role gave him a close view of how laws are shaped and how decisions affect businesses and communities.

It also exposed him to the gap between ideas and execution.

In government, plans are discussed often. But not all of them are carried out well. Hayes noticed that early.

“Following through is everything,” he says. “If you say you’re going to do something, you do it.”

After his time in government, he moved into private practice. He became a partner at Roedel Parsons and later at Adams and Reese. These roles expanded his experience and gave him exposure to complex legal and business challenges.

But more importantly, they helped him refine his approach to problem-solving.

How Kevin Hayes Turned Strategy Into Action

Over time, Hayes shifted toward lobbying and strategic advisory work. This move allowed him to focus on turning ideas into real outcomes.

Today, as the owner of Hayes Strategic Solutions LLC, he works with clients who need to navigate policy, regulation, and legislative processes.

His role is not just to advise. It is to help move things forward.

That often includes testifying at the legislature and helping shape how policies are understood and applied.

“Credibility and being trustworthy matter more than anything,” Hayes says. “People need to know you will follow through.”

This approach has helped him build long-term relationships. In fields like law and lobbying, trust is not built quickly. It comes from consistent action over time.

What Makes Big Ideas Work in Practice

Many professionals have ideas. Fewer know how to execute them.

Hayes believes the difference comes down to discipline and structure.

He relies on habits that keep him focused. He journals. He plans. He tracks progress. These small actions help him stay aligned with long-term goals.

“Lots of journaling and planning,” he says. “That’s how I stay on track.”

He also believes in staying grounded, especially when working on complex issues.

“Prayer, sticking to my plan, and trusting the outcome,” Hayes explains.

This mindset helps him handle uncertainty. It also allows him to stay consistent, even when results take time.

Leadership Roles and Industry Influence

Hayes has not only built a career. He has also shaped the professional community around him.

He has served in key leadership roles, including:

• President of the Baton Rouge Bar Association
• President of the Louisiana Association of Louisiana Lobbyists
• Chairman of the Young Lawyers Section

He has also served on the Board of Directors for the Association of Louisiana Lobbyists and contributed to the Center for Law and Civic Education.

These roles reflect his ability to turn leadership ideas into real initiatives that support others in the field.

He has also received recognition for his work. This includes the Outstanding Young Lawyer of Louisiana award in 2001 and the Judge Joseph Keogh Award in 2002.

Still, Hayes keeps his perspective simple.

“Humble is how I try to stay,” he says.

A Career Built on Trust and Follow-Through

At the core of Hayes’ career is a simple idea: do what you say you will do.

That idea may sound basic, but it is often overlooked in fast-moving industries.

Hayes has built his reputation by focusing on consistency rather than short-term wins.

“I want to be able to sleep at night knowing I have done the right thing,” he says.

This focus on integrity has shaped both his career and his approach to clients.

Outside of work, Hayes stays connected to his personal values. He enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors. He is also active in church and professional organizations.

His family plays a central role in his life.

“My children are a big part of why I do what I do,” he says.

Why Kevin Hayes Baton Rouge Stands Out

Kevin Hayes’ career shows that big ideas only matter when they are followed by action.

He has taken lessons from law, government, and leadership and applied them in a practical way. His work focuses on turning plans into results.

His approach is clear:

• Build a plan
• Stay disciplined
• Follow through
• Stay grounded

Over time, that approach has created lasting impact.

In a field where many talk about change, Hayes has focused on making it happen.

Highly venomous snakes long associated with Australia’s remote arid interior are projected to expand their ranges southward toward densely populated coastal regions, increasing potential encounters with humans in backyards, parks and suburbs along the east coast, according to a major international research project published this week.

The findings, detailed in a study tracking medically important venomous snake species worldwide, highlight how rising temperatures and shifting climate patterns are rendering traditional inland habitats less suitable while creating more favorable conditions in cooler, wetter coastal zones. Researchers warn that species such as the eastern brown snake could become more common in areas from Queensland through New South Wales to Victoria by 2050, raising public health concerns even as Australia’s snakebite fatality rate remains among the world’s lowest.

The international project examined the future distributions of 508 medically significant venomous snakes — those capable of causing severe illness, death or long-term disability in humans. In Australia, the analysis focused on key species including the eastern brown snake, one of the country’s most medically important reptiles responsible for the majority of serious bites. Models project its range contracting in the hot, dry center while expanding south and east along the populated seaboard where millions of Australians live.

Climate change is the primary driver, researchers said. As global temperatures rise, arid inland areas may become too hot or dry for some snake populations, pushing them toward coastal regions that offer more stable moisture, moderate temperatures and abundant prey. The east coast, home to major cities including Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, along with sprawling suburbs and national parks, sits directly in the path of these projected shifts.

Experts emphasize that “migration” in this context refers to gradual range expansion rather than sudden mass movements. Snakes do not undertake long-distance journeys like birds or mammals but slowly colonize new areas as conditions allow over decades. Still, the implications for human-snake interactions could be significant in a country already known for its diverse and potent reptile fauna.

Australia hosts some of the world’s most venomous snakes, including the inland taipan — often cited as the most toxic land snake — the coastal taipan and the eastern brown. While fatalities average fewer than two per year nationwide thanks to excellent antivenom availability, rapid medical response and public education, increased encounters could strain resources and heighten anxiety in urban and suburban communities.

Snake catchers in Queensland and New South Wales already report busy seasons, with warmer winters reducing periods of brumation — a reptilian form of hibernation — and keeping snakes active longer. One professional in southern Queensland has handled dozens of calls on peak days, removing venomous species from homes, pools and gardens. Urban sprawl into bushland edges further blurs the line between wild habitats and human spaces.

The new study builds on earlier research into climate impacts on reptiles and aligns with global patterns showing venomous snakes shifting toward higher latitudes and more populated zones. In other regions, similar movements could expose unprepared communities to unfamiliar species, complicating treatment. For Australia, the focus remains on familiar but dangerous locals potentially appearing in greater numbers farther south.

Public health officials and herpetologists urge calm alongside vigilance. Most snakes prefer to avoid humans and will only bite in self-defense. Simple precautions — wearing sturdy boots and long pants in bushy areas, using torches at night, keeping yards clear of debris and supervising children and pets — can dramatically reduce risks. Residents encountering snakes are advised not to approach or attempt to kill them but to contact professional snake catchers or wildlife services for safe removal.

Antivenom stocks remain robust, and Australian hospitals are well-equipped to treat bites from local species. The eastern brown, for instance, delivers a potent neurotoxic and coagulopathic venom, but prompt pressure immobilization bandaging and hospital care yield excellent outcomes in most cases.

Environmental scientists note that habitat loss and human encroachment already influence snake distributions more immediately than long-term climate projections. Urban development fragments landscapes, while agriculture and fires alter prey availability. Snakes may seek refuge or hunting grounds in parks, golf courses and even suburban gardens as natural areas shrink.

The study’s authors call for proactive measures, including enhanced public education campaigns, monitoring programs to track range shifts and investment in research on snake ecology under changing conditions. They also stress the importance of preserving biodiversity corridors that allow species to move naturally without increasing conflict.

For everyday Australians, the message is preparation rather than panic. Ophidiophobes — those with intense fear of snakes — may find the news unsettling, but experts point out that Australia records far fewer snakebite deaths annually than many tropical nations despite its fearsome reputation. Effective healthcare and widespread awareness play key roles.

Coastal communities in southern New South Wales and Victoria could see more frequent sightings of species previously rarer in those latitudes. Warmer summers and milder winters may extend snake activity seasons, overlapping more with human outdoor recreation periods such as hiking, camping and gardening.

Tourism operators in regional areas have mixed reactions. While some fear negative publicity could deter visitors, others note that Australia’s unique wildlife remains a draw for many international travelers when managed responsibly. National parks already provide guidelines on snake safety, and guided tours often include education on respectful coexistence.

Broader climate impacts on Australian reptiles extend beyond venomous species. Some non-venomous snakes and lizards face range contractions, while others may thrive. Overall biodiversity could suffer if specialized habitats disappear faster than species can adapt.

Researchers used sophisticated modeling incorporating multiple climate scenarios to project distributions to 2050 and beyond. While uncertainties remain — including the exact pace of warming and human adaptation responses — the directional trend toward coastal expansion appears consistent across models.

Wildlife organizations and government agencies are expected to review the findings and update guidelines. Snake relocation services may see sustained demand, and apps or hotlines for reporting sightings could expand.

In the meantime, Australians are reminded that snakes play vital ecological roles as predators controlling rodent and insect populations. Removing them indiscriminately disrupts local balances and is often illegal without proper permits.

The global study underscores a wider truth: climate change reshapes ecosystems in complex ways, sometimes bringing wildlife closer to human populations. In Australia, with its vast interior and concentrated coastal living, the east coast shift highlights the need for balanced urban planning, habitat conservation and community preparedness.

As temperatures continue their upward trajectory, monitoring and education will be crucial to minimizing risks while respecting the place of these ancient reptiles in the Australian landscape. For now, the advice remains straightforward: look where you step, keep your yard tidy and call professionals when snakes appear — rather than attempting heroic removals.

The research, published in a leading journal focused on neglected tropical diseases, serves as both warning and call to action. With careful management, Australia can continue its record of low snakebite mortality even as distributions evolve.