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TORPY: MARTA prohibits advertisements for attorneys and massage establishments. What's the catch?

2025-03-20 00:50:51

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. MARTA has prohibited lawyers, massage parlors, and various other businesses from promoting their services on the agency's vehicles. Attorney John Foy currently has advertisements displayed on the front of over 400 out of the more than 500 buses in the MARTA fleet. (Bill Torpy/AJC) Attorney John Foy, famously known as the "Strong Arm" from his widely recognized advertisements, claims he isn't offended. However, was it really necessary for MARTA to associate him with massage parlors? Beginning January 1, the transit authority ceased accepting advertisements from companies like Foy, which typically covers around 80% of MARTA's fleet of over 500 buses. "I've never come across an advertisement for a massage parlor on a bus," Foy remarked. "I'm not sure whether I should take offense." Last year, MARTA “updated” its advertising policy, although comments from its board members indicated more like they were cleaning up. Jennifer Ide, currently serving as the board chair, remarked that certain advertisements on buses appeared to be "somewhat cheesy." In the previous year, a sales manager presented to the board the significance of ensuring a uniform brand image throughout all assets owned by MARTA. "If advertisers view the Authority's facilities as a platform for promoting products and services that the typical rider finds less appealing, it will lead to a decrease in advertising rates and revenue." The board has prohibited advertisements for alcohol, massage and tattoo studios, title pawn businesses or pawn shops, check cashing services, and legal practitioners. I can't determine whether MARTA's "average riders" have a negative opinion about the products and services mentioned above. It's clear that many engage with them. The agency aims to provide a more stylish advertising experience. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Certainly, preparing egg foo young typically requires breaking a few eggs. In this instance, the consequence is that MARTA will see a significant reduction in its advertising revenue, losing approximately $3.5 million annually. There are hopes to compensate for this loss by attracting advertisements from hospitals, as proposed by one board member, or potentially from nonprofit organizations, arts initiatives, or local retail businesses. Granted, that ad money will not be missed because MARTA’s business is booming. (OK, OK. I kid. Last year the agency carried around 65 million passengers, as ridership slowly returns after COVID-19. But they used to have 170 million riders in 2001.) MARTA operates with a total budget of $1.6 billion, which includes $654 million allocated for net operating expenses and $909 million designated for capital projects. Foy estimates that he contributes around $1 million annually to MARTA's funds. His advertisements are displayed on the fronts of over 400 buses. One such bus, featuring a Strong Arm logo, collided with a car driven by a client of Foy's. “The case went to trial and we secured a substantial verdict,” the attorney explained to me. “We file lawsuits against them regularly. It's not a personal matter.” He went on to say, “I can’t say for sure if they feel like they’re being overwhelmed. They’re accustomed to being on the move every day.” In other words, they fail spectacularly. In fact, the lawsuits labeled as "nothing personal" serve as a major justification for the elimination of advertisements by attorneys. "I am truly thrilled at the prospect of removing some of the plaintiffs' attorneys who are currently suing us from our assets," remarked board member W. Thomas Worthy, who happens to be a lawyer as well, though he wouldn't be the type to have his name plastered on a bus. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Foy does indeed seek bus business. “If you’ve been injured in a bus accident in Atlanta, contact the experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyers at John Foy & Associates,” his website reads. He figures he’s the No. 2 advertising attorney in Georgia behind the firm Morgan & Morgan — you know, “For the People.” But he adds he’s probably MARTA’s leading advertising lawyer. Or was. (His ads remain on a lot of buses. He figures they haven’t sold new ads yet, so he’s enjoying free advertising.) "He remarked, 'It's fair to say that lawyers are the top purchasers of advertisements on MARTA.'" According to Foy, the placards function as "mobile advertisements." He adds, "Fulton and DeKalb counties are locations where I want my presence to be recognized." Nonetheless, he remarked, “I’m not targeting MARTA passengers. My focus is on individuals in vehicles, who are on the move.” Lawyers specializing in advertising frequently face derision, often being labeled as opportunistic ambulance-chasers. However, they can indeed earn a substantial income. According to him, Atlanta has consistently ranked among the top three markets for legal advertising, a practice that became lawful following a landmark 1977 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Bates v. State Bar of Arizona. In this case, the Supreme Court determined that John Bates, a young attorney who ran an advertisement in a newspaper, was participating in commercial speech that is safeguarded by the First Amendment. Billboard companies rejoiced, and attorneys have since confidently showcased their names and images everywhere. Critics argue that when you contact such a company, you likely won't speak to the person featured on the advertisement. This may very well be true. However, it’s worth noting that if you reach out to Alston and Bird, you won't connect with either of them either. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Foy, originally from Milwaukee, has been practicing law in Atlanta for nearly three decades. He began his career at Gilbert and Montlick, a firm known for its advertising, before launching his own billboard campaign. Today, he leads a team of 60 attorneys, and if you’ve suffered an injury and the other party has solid insurance coverage, he’s eager to connect with you. The advertisements on buses are beneficial, but the majority of Foy's business originates from online marketing. He has invested tens of millions of dollars into this strategy and his website. What can you tell me about the "Strong Arm"? Catchy phrases are beneficial for attorneys in the personal injury field. After the advertising professional who created Ken Nugent's memorable tagline "One Call, That's All" moved on from working with him, he reached out to Foy with the idea for the "Strong Arm" slogan. "I informed him that it was the most foolish thing I'd ever heard," Foy remembers. However, he soon understood that what seems foolish can actually be genius, and he has since secured a trademark for the phrase. "That's an excellent hook," he remarks. I couldn't help but inquire about the legendary strength of that arm. "What's your bench press max?" Foy, a slender man, hesitated. "I exercise daily," he remarked.

Business

Warren Buffett is poised to earn $4.5 billion in yearly dividends from seven outstanding stocks.

2025-03-21 10:53:04

The majority of Berkshire Hathaway's dividend earnings can be attributed to seven key investments. Few if any money managers command the attention of investors quite like the Oracle of Omaha, Warren Buffett. Since taking over as Berkshire Hathaway's (BRK.A -2.20%) (BRK.B -2.03%) CEO six decades ago, Buffett has overseen a cumulative return in his company's Class A shares of 5,477,866%, as of the closing bell on Jan. 8. When you lap the benchmark S&P 500 many times over, you're going to draw a crowd. Buffett's success has been defined by his unwavering search for value, a preference to concentrate Berkshire's investment portfolio into his top ideas, and his long-term ethos. But another factor that's not given nearly enough credit is his love of dividend stocks. Companies that pay a regular dividend to their shareholders are usually profitable on a recurring basis, time-tested, and capable of providing transparent long-term growth outlooks. Additionally, a study from Hartford Funds (The Power of Dividends: Past, Present, and Future) found that income stocks have more than doubled the average annual return of non-payers covering a 50-year period (1973-2023): 9.17% vs. 4.27%. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Warren Buffett, the CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. Image credit: The Motley Fool. Berkshire Hathaway boasts a diverse portfolio filled with dividend-paying stocks. Among them, seven standout stocks are projected to generate a combined annual dividend income of $4.5 billion for Buffett's firm. 1. Occidental Petroleum: $911,597,004 (this figure accounts for preferred dividend earnings) Believe it or not, the top income-producing stock for 2025 in the 44-stock, $296 billion portfolio Warren Buffett oversees at Berkshire Hathaway is integrated oil and gas company Occidental Petroleum (OXY 0.21%). The more than 264 million shares of Occidental common stock Berkshire holds are set to generate almost $232.5 million in dividend income, while the $8.489 billion in preferred stock yielding 8% will produce another $679.1 million. The end result is north of $911 million in expected dividends from Occidental this year. Unlike most integrated oil and gas stocks, Occidental's revenue heavily relies on its upstream drilling operations. Although it has downstream chemical plants that can help to partially offset declines in the spot price of crude oil, Occidental's operating cash flow ebbs-and-flows more than most oil stocks depending on the direction the price of crude oil moves. Another interesting quirk about Occidental Petroleum is that it doesn't fit the mold of a typical Buffett investment. Whereas the Oracle of Omaha often avoids heavily indebted companies, Occidental's balance sheet has been constrained since it acquired Anadarko in 2019. 2. Bank of America: $796,957,680.00 Despite Warren Buffett overseeing the sale of more than 266 million shares of Bank of America (BAC -2.38%) stock since July 17, one of America's largest banks by total assets is still on track to generate almost $797 million in dividend income for Berkshire Hathaway in the new year. The clearest competitive edge BofA brings to the table for its shareholders is its interest rate sensitivity. No big bank benefited more from the Federal Reserve's most-aggressive rate-hiking cycle in four decades, in terms of net interest income generation, than Bank of America. Even though the nation's central bank is now in a rate-easing cycle, the slow and methodical rate at which interest rates are falling should allow BofA ample opportunity to continue originating high-value loans. Bank of America's leadership deserves recognition for its commitment to technological investment. By the end of September, 77% of households had adopted digital banking, and 54% of loan transactions were conducted online or through mobile applications, marking an increase of 11 percentage points compared to three years ago. Digital banking proves to be considerably more economical for Bank of America than traditional in-person services. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Image credit: Coca-Cola. 3. Coca-Cola: $776 million It should come as no surprise that Berkshire Hathaway's longest-tenured holding (since 1988), consumer staples colossus Coca-Cola (KO -1.04%), is one of Buffett's top dividend payers. Coca-Cola has raised its base annual payout for 62 consecutive years and is on track to provide Berkshire with $776 million in annual dividend income. Geographic diversity and a well-known brand have played a key role in Coca-Cola's long-term success. This is a company that operates in all but three countries worldwide (North Korea, Cuba, and Russia) and has been the most-chosen brand off retail shelves for 12 years running, based on Kantar's annual "Brand Footprint" report. Its ability to cross generational gaps and connect with consumers via social media and well-known brand ambassadors speaks to the strength of its brand and marketing team. Additionally, Coca-Cola gains an advantage by offering a fundamental necessity: drinks. Regardless of whether the U.S. or global economies are thriving or struggling, consumers will always require beverages, resulting in steady operating cash flow annually. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Chevron has raised its base annual dividend for 37 straight years, according to CVX dividend information from YCharts. 4. Chevron: $773,340,682 Global energy companies are known for their robust dividends, and integrated oil and gas goliath Chevron (CVX 1.89%) is no exception. Chevron has boosted its base annual payout for 37 straight years, with its $6.52-per-share dividend expected to generate over $773 million in annual dividend income for Berkshire Hathaway in 2025. Although the juiciest margins are to be had from the company's upstream drilling segment, Chevron's midstream and downstream operations play a key role in its success. Chevron operates transmission pipelines, chemical plants, and refineries, all of which help to offset potential weakness in the spot price of crude oil or natural gas. Having these hedges in place ensures steady cash flow. Chevron enjoys significantly greater financial flexibility compared to Occidental Petroleum. Anticipated capital expenditures are projected to decrease by 2026, even as new initiatives in the Gulf of Mexico, U.S. shale, and Kazakhstan are launched. Consequently, Chevron is likely to see a substantial increase in its operating cash flow amounting to several billion dollars. 5. Kraft Heinz: $521,015,709 Even though it's been one of the Oracle of Omaha's worst investments, consumer-packaged foods company Kraft Heinz (KHC -3.88%) doles out a hearty dividend. The nearly 27% stake Berkshire Hathaway holds in Kraft Heinz will yield more than $521 million in annual dividend income for Buffett's company this year. Much like Coca-Cola, Kraft Heinz enjoys the advantage of being associated with a fundamental need: food. While consumers might occasionally cut back on non-essential purchases, the demand for food remains constant. With a diverse range of popular brands and convenient meal options, sides, and snacks, Kraft Heinz tends to maintain stable operating performance across various economic conditions. The downside for Kraft Heinz is that it's lugging around a lot of long-term debt ($19.4 billion) and quite a bit of goodwill ($28.9 billion) that it's unlikely to recoup. The company is struggling to generate enough buzz around its brands to meaningfully improve its financial flexibility. 6. American Express: $424,509,960.00 Credit-services provider American Express (AXP -3.15%) is the second longest-held stock in Berkshire Hathaway's $296 billion portfolio (since 1991) and one of the eight stocks Buffett considers to be a forever holding. In 2025, Berkshire is expected to collect $424.5 million in dividend income from AmEx. The heart of American Express's operating success is its ability to double dip. On one hand, it's the nation's third-largest payment processor by credit card network purchase volume, which generates consistent fees from merchants. On the other side of the transaction counter, AmEx is also a lender, which allows it to collect interest income and annual fees from its cardholders. Long periods of economic expansion fuel AmEx's "double-dipping" opportunity. What's more, American Express has often been synonymous with affluent clientele. Cardholders with higher incomes are less likely to change their spending habits or fail to make their payments during periods of minor economic turbulence. Catering to the wealthy helps AmEx navigate recessions better than most lending institutions. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Apple's prominent share buyback initiative has significantly decreased its number of outstanding shares over the past 11 years. Data on AAPL Shares Outstanding can be found through YCharts. 7. Apple: $300 million Last but not least is Berkshire Hathaway's largest holding by market value, Apple (AAPL -2.41%). Even though the Oracle of Omaha has sold 67% of his company's stake in Apple, it's still Berkshire's top holding. The 300 million shares owned should produce $300 million in annual dividend income. Warren Buffett's favorite thing about Apple may very well be its world-leading capital-return program. Over the last 11 fiscal years (Apple's fiscal year ends in late September), Apple has bought back more than $725 billion worth of its stock and reduced its outstanding share count by almost 43%. Consistently buying back shares has helped to lift Apple's earnings per share and made its stock more attractive to value-oriented investors. The significance of Apple's brand value is undeniable. It stands as the top domestic smartphone provider in terms of market share, and its Services segment, which relies on subscriptions, has been consistently experiencing growth in the double digits.

Business

EXCLUSIVE: A red state is taking legal action against an insurance company for allegedly utilizing customer data to create the ‘largest driving behavior database’ in the world.

2025-03-22 00:56:55

The state has filed accusations against Allstate, claiming that the company has been covertly collecting driving data from more than 45 million Americans through mobile devices, in-vehicle systems, and cars, in order to create a database containing "trillions of miles" of information. Tune in to Fox News to access this content. Enjoy exclusive access to certain articles and additional premium content with your account at no cost. By entering your email and pushing continue, you are agreeing to Fox News' Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, which includes our Notice of Financial Incentive. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is suing Allstate insurance company for allegedly illegally collecting, using and selling the driving behavior data of over 45 million Americans. On Monday morning, Paxton initiated legal proceedings in the District Court of Montgomery County, Texas. In his lawsuit, he claims that Allstate and its affiliated data analytics firm, "Arity," have been covertly utilizing driving data from more than 45 million Americans' mobile devices, in-vehicle systems, and cars to create what he describes as the "largest driving behavior database in the world," which encompasses "trillions of miles" of information. "In a statement released on Monday, Paxton stated, 'Our inquiry uncovered that Allstate and Arity disbursed millions to implement Allstate’s tracking technology. The private information of countless Americans was sold to insurance firms without their awareness or approval, which is against the law. The people of Texas deserve more, and we are committed to ensuring these companies are held responsible.'" Allstate ranks among the largest providers of auto, home, and life insurance in the United States, with its headquarters located in Glenview, Illinois. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton addresses a rally with former President Donald Trump on October 22, 2022, in Robstown, Texas. (AP Photo/Nick Wagner, File) The suit said that in 2015, Allstate and Arity developed and integrated software into several third-party apps so that when a consumer downloaded these apps onto their phone, they unwittingly downloaded the tracking software. Once Allstate’s software was downloaded onto a customer’s device, they could monitor the consumer’s location and movement in real time. According to the suit, the company used the driving data to justify raising customers’ insurance rates and further profited by selling the data to third parties, including other insurance companies. The lawsuit stated, "The defendants [Allstate and Arity] failed to notify consumers regarding their extensive data collection practices, nor did they secure consent from consumers to carry out such data gathering. Furthermore, the defendants did not disclose the numerous methods by which they would analyze, utilize, and profit from consumers' sensitive information." View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Tom Wilson, chairman and chief executive officer of Allstate Corp., listens during the CEO Initiative event in New York, U.S., on Monday, Sept. 25, 2017. The CEO Initiative brings together the CEOs of some of the worlds most enlightened companies to exchange best practices and leadership techniques, develop actionable solutions, and track tangible progress.  (Misha Friedman/Bloomberg) Paxton contends that Allstate's data collection practices infringe upon the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act, the Data Broker Law, and the Texas Insurance Code's ban on unfair and deceptive acts in the insurance industry, as tens of millions of Americans, including a significant number of Texans, were not made aware that their driving information was being collected. He is requesting that the court issue a permanent injunction against Allstate, preventing the company from collecting and utilizing customer data any further, and is seeking substantial civil penalties amounting to thousands of dollars for each affected customer. According to Paxton, this suit is the first enforcement action ever filed by a state attorney general to enforce a comprehensive data privacy law.  Fox News Digital contacted Allstate but has yet to receive a reply.

Business

Declining birth rates attributed to 'economic challenges'

2025-03-20 14:22:57

BBC View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Rachel May underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF) prior to welcoming her daughter into the world. An expert has indicated that the decline in birth rates in the South West can be attributed to the prevailing economic conditions. Dr. Alexander Haupt, an economics professor at the University of Plymouth, stated that financial uncertainty has led to a decrease in the birth rate in Devon. Rachel May, a mother from Devon, shared that she spent four and a half years undergoing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) before welcoming her daughter. She noted that the financial burden of having a child, combined with the challenges of living on maternity pay, made the journey particularly tough. A representative from the government stated that maternity pay is merely "one aspect of the assistance offered to expectant mothers and new parents, who might also qualify for universal credit or child benefit." View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Emma Gould expressed that she would struggle to cover the costs of sending both of her children to nursery. Ms. May described maternity pay as being incredibly inadequate. "She mentioned that she's heard numerous individuals express their uncertainty about managing things once they leave their jobs to welcome a child." Emma Gould, a mother of two kids aged two and six, expressed that she couldn't manage the expenses of sending both of her children to nursery simultaneously. According to the Office for National Statistics, fertility rates in England and Wales have been consistently decreasing since 2010. Between 2022 and 2023, it was reported that the total fertility rate (TFR) for England and Wales fell from an average of 1.49 children per woman throughout their lifetime to 1.44, marking the lowest rate ever recorded. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Laura Gilbert mentioned that she had observed a decrease in attendance at Moo Music in Plymouth. Laura Gilbert, the proprietor of Moo Music, an early learning center located in Plymouth, mentioned that she has observed a decrease in attendance for the sessions aimed at younger children. She mentioned, "Reaching out to parents with just one child is more challenging. However, when we have a parent who has already been involved, they are familiar with us." Professor Haupt noted that the university had witnessed a decrease in fertility rates following the onset of the cost of living crisis. "It has fallen to quite a concerning level," remarked Prof Haupt. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Dr. Alexander Haupt from Plymouth stated that it is essential for the government to create a stable economic climate. "One significant concern is economic instability, which I believe has contributed to the drop in fertility rates following the financial crisis." "Deciding to have children is a commitment that spans many years, and individuals tend to value the opportunity to make this choice in a stable economic climate." He mentioned that a significant consequence of the declining birth rate might be "shortages in the labor force" down the line. He stated, "When examining the South West industries or sectors related to tourism or agriculture, especially since they are characterized by low wages, they struggle to secure enough labor." He emphasized that the key priority for the government should be to establish a "stable economic climate." Evaluation of Parental Leave Policies "He further suggested that implementing regulations for the labor market, maternity leave, and addressing the housing market could prove beneficial." A representative from the government stated that anyone wishing to have children should not feel discouraged from pursuing that goal. "In line with our ongoing efforts to provide optimal support for working families and enhance economic growth, we will be conducting a comprehensive review of the existing statutory parental leave policies," they announced. Details regarding the review of an expanded statutory parental leave will be revealed in "due course."

Business

If You're Skipping New Year's Resolutions, Check Out These 30 Ideas to Satisfy Your Desires

2025-03-21 23:18:23

Go ahead and munch on that Flamin' Hot Cheeto! 1. A SwitchBot Smart Switch Button Pusher you can program so the coffee machine cuts on each morning before you can zombie-walk to the kitchen. It also works with Alexa and Google Home! You tried weaning yourself off coffee in January 2024, and it did NOT go well.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Reviewers appreciate this feature as it eliminates the need to "smart enable" other areas of your home. It's also a fantastic solution for starting your kettle or coffee maker from a distance, ensuring it's all set for you when you wake up!  Promising review: "This is exactly what I was looking for and had no idea it existed until I saw someone mention it on TikTok! Our front walkway gets pretty dark at night, and I was frustrated with trying to remember to turn on the light every evening and off every morning. I looked into those light sensors you can plug in, but our front porch light is under an awning with enough shade that it would have kept the light on 24/7. This little Switchbot solved the problem. I applied it to the indoor light switch and set the time on my phone. It has worked perfectly ever since." —Alecia McLochlin Get it from Amazon.com for $20.30+ (available in white and black).  2. And some s'mores-flavored coffee to help you look even more forward to your morning (and maybe early-afternoon, and then also evening) cup of coffee.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Amazon.com Bones Coffee is a boutique company that focuses on a variety of flavored coffees, featuring clever puns and eerie themes.  Get it from Amazon.com for $17.99 (available in a variety of flavors).  3. A pillow-shaking alarm clockthat uses a "shaker" mode to vibrate under your pillow and wake you up — because you're not sticking to a bedtime in 2025 but have to do things like work for a living in the morn. This gadget *also* has a "sonic bomb" alarm in case the pillow shaking just won't cut it.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Sonic Alert is a small business that specializes in alarm clocks.  Promising review: "This alarm is amazing. The pillow shaker does its job to perfection. The shaker shakes the pillow just right so you don’t wake up startled. The loud alarm is loud enough. I wear a hearing aid to hear everything, and the loud alarm is loud enough that I can hear it without my hearing aid. Must have for someone with hearing issues so you wake up on time every time." —Scott D.  Get it from Amazon.com for $41.99 (available in six colors).  4. A tiny undetectable laptop mouse jiggler you simply put in your USB port that'll make it look like you're active on Teams, Slack, and any other work software that monitors how often you're using your mouse. If your employer isn't going to give you the raise you deserve, you might as well go to that mid-day pilates class but make it look like you're plugging away at yet another spreadsheet or deck.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Promising review: "Saves me from auto logouts! My brother recommended this handy gadget. I work from home and have three monitors. When I leave my desk for lunch, the computer goes to sleep, and when I come back, everything is logged out, and whatever was on three monitors ends up on two. SO frustrating. This is programmable for three settings, and I use it on the minimal movement, so when I come back, everything is just as I left it. Revolutionary! Just remember to turn it on!" —Isaiah Get it from Amazon.com for $7.25.  5. An organizing couch pillow with a STURDY spot for everything you require as you catch up on your stories. Go ahead and take in that screen time and catch up on this season of Traitors already so we can discuss.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Cup Cozy Pillow is a small biz as seen on TV specializing in cleverly designed cup holders.  Promising review: "Amazing product! I've always struggled to find something that I can put my drinks on on the couch that won't spill, and this is perfect! I wish they didn't cost so much, or I'd buy several more, but it is worth the price!" —Thor Odenson Get it from Amazon.com for $34.99. 6. A set of blackout curtains can keep your bedroom (or any other room!) as dark as you want. Plus, they'll help maintain your ideal indoor temp! So you can hit the snooze button a few more times because you and I both know you weren't going to get up for an outdoor run in 20-degree weather before work anyway. Facts is facts.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Promising review: "I finally invested in blackout curtains for my room and my kids' room, and now I’m kicking myself for not doing it sooner! These curtains do exactly what they are supposed to do. My kids are early risers, usually getting up when the sun comes up. Today, I was able to sleep until 9:30 because they were still in bed! I woke up not even knowing what time it was because my room was still so dark, haha! These especially made a huge difference in my room which faces the side of the house the sun rises on. These curtains are silky feeling, which I wasn’t expecting, but it gives a sleek appearance. I highly highly recommend this brand." —Jessica Duvall Get it from Amazon.com for $19.95+ (available in 30 sizes and 31 colors). 7. A 40-pack of Flamin' Hot snacks so you won't even have to run out to the store to satisfy a late-night craving. Soooo actually, this is a pretty smart buy!  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Amazon.com Promising review: "All of the flavors are good. If you like Flamin' Hot, this is definitely the box for you. The Doritos are especially fire. Will so buy this again." —Christy Get them from Amazon.com for $22.20 (available in 10 varieties). 8. A genius amber reading light that'll be much nicer for bedtime reading (it's 99.94% free of blue spectrum light) either you or your partner could use. Go head and start a thriller at 9:35 p.m. again. Bedtimes are for chumps! Getting lost in a book without disturbing your bed partner is the BEST.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Promising review: "This is a fantastic light! I use it every evening to continue reading while my son sleeps, it does not wake him or impede my sleep after I’m ready to go to bed. Great product." —Brian Masters Get it from Amazon.com for $12.99. 9. A sleek one-button electric wine bottle opener because a little snafu shouldn't stand between you and popping out the cork of a bottle of wine. This beaut is rechargeable and handles all the hard work for you.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Promising review: "I have had this wine bottle opener for over two years and I'm so happy with this purchase. I love the aesthetic and that I can leave it on the counter. When you receive the product, you just have to plug it in to charge, and then it’s ready to use. It’s convenient to have the foil cutter. It’s also still sharp after two years. In just a few seconds, the bottle is opened, and I’m ready to enjoy a glass of wine!" —Rebecca Anne Get it from Amazon.com for $29.99 (available in six styles).  10. Plus, a bottle of Drop It, a natural wine sulfate and tannin remover that addresses the stuff that tends to give you hangovers. You aren't doing Dry January this year, but you don't want a hangover either! View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Emma Lord is a writer for BuzzFeed. I've tried these before on some weekend friend getaways where we drank a LOT of wine and I think they really work! Just don't get overeager squeezing the bottle because then you can put way too much in your glass and make your wine taste weird. Yep, I did that and learned my lesson. Drop It recommends 1–2 drops for each glass of white wine, 2–3 for a glass of red, and 7–9 if you're treating the whole bottle at once. Once it's in the glass, swirl lightly for 20 seconds, and you should be g2g! Promising review: "I can finally drink wine again after years of abstinence! I used to get the most awful headache on just one glass of wine, it was so bad I just stopped drinking wine altogether, then I discovered these magic drops! I've only had them a couple of weeks but I have drank red and white wine totally headache-free! I even drank half a bottle of heavy red. These drops really are magic! I love that you get two bottles as well, one can stay in your purse and one at home. Brilliant!" —shelleymab Get it from Amazon.com for $14.99. 11. And a wine/can holder so you can enjoy a little bevvy in the bathtub without any spillage. Go ahead and sip on a shower beer while that hair mask goes to work on your mane. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Promising review: "Having a shower beer has always been a nice relaxing way to chill after a long day of work. After moving to our new home, the new bathroom didn’t have shelves to place my shower beer on. So I got to looking for this exact thing. I read some reviews that said the suction didn’t work. Well, after a month it’s still holding strong. Helpful tip, lick the suction cup and stick it on the wall. Also it can be used as a cell phone holder. This is a must for anyone who enjoys a refreshing drink while showering." —Tyler Strain Get it from Amazon.com for $9.99+ (available in five styles/colors). 12. A pound of cereal marshmallows so you can cut to the chase and skip eating only part of a box of Lucky Charms.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The delish treats come from Medley Hills Farm — a family-owned and operated small business based in Ohio. Promising review: "Amazing! I put them in hot chocolate, Rice Krispies treats, other cereals, or just eat then by the handful. Impulse buy that totally worked out." —Maddison Helsel Get it from Amazon.com for $12.99. 13. A lidded charcuterie board because your doctor called and she said you need to be eating more meat and cheese. I gave this to my mom for Christmas and she LOVED it.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Amazon.com Promising review: "I bought these for a party and it was so easy to prep them and pop them into the fridge with the lid on. Same goes for storing leftovers afterward. It was also great to use for fresh fruit we cut up to enjoy all weekend. Looks lovely and is solid quality." —AmJam Get it from Amazon.com for $33.29. 14. A pack of boba popping balls if you go wild for a boba order and like to order extra balls. You can bring the gushy popping fun home and throw 'em in all kinds of beverages, like tea, lemonade, juice, and more! View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Promising review: "Definitely spend the money on this, it is so worth it! These have such great flavor and much better consistency than others I have tried! So good! I tried the strawberry in my loaded tea… I think I will be trying all of these flavors!!!" —Grace B.  Get them from Amazon.com for $9.99+ (available in three sizes and six flavors).  15. A shaker ofCinnamon Toast Crunch Cinnadust for anyone who could live off that cereal (ME) and would like to add said magical flavor to all sorts of other things, like *actual* toast, yogurt, coffee, ice cream...STEAK? Idk, do what you want! View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Check out a TikTok of the Cinnadust in action.  Promising review: "Ten out of ten, would order again. Try it on yogurt, ice cream, toast, carrots, and amazingly I saw a TikTok challenge with it on hard boiled eggs. It is stupendous!!!" —ThatGuy Get it from Amazon.com for $3.21.  16. A universal remote attachment so you don't have to hunt down the TV remote and then the Fire TV remote because your partner misplaced them once again. This'll help you control it all with just your Fire TV remote and get back to watching ALL the seasons and spinoffs of 90 Day Fiance.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Promising review: "Before: three remotes, one for the screen (on/off), a separate one for the sound system (volume) and of course the fire stick remote. After: just the one convenient integrated unit. No more scrambling to find the which remote to do what I want, cause it's all right there in the one unit. I wish I'd have bought one years ago cause the multi-remote tango got old real fast." —Chapman B. Get it from Amazon.com for $26.99. 17. A temperature-regulating, cocoon-like sleep pod so you can snooze off whenever you want without being disturbed by your partner when they crawl into bed. It applies a gentle, calming pressure like a hug, which'll make it feel even more luxurious.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Rest Chamber I gave it a go myself, and it's incredibly stretchy! Promising review: "The Rest Chamber is absolutely amazing. I am 41 and have had sleep maintenance insomnia for most of my life. If you don't know what that is I fall asleep fine but don't stay asleep. I'd wake up between four and eight times a night and sometimes only sleep two hrs and that'd be it. I have used the hug sleep for a week and have slept between seven and nine hours only waking up once. It's comfortable not too warm and the pressure it applies is comforting not restricting. I have recommended to everyone." —Amy Archambault Get it from Rest Chamber for $69.99+ (available in sizes S–L). 18. A "Bacon Bin" because most things you cook on the stove can be improved by a bit of bacon grease, so let's save that magical liquid. *Also* it'll remind everyone to pour the grease in here instead of wastefully down the sink — which would cause a whole plethora of plumbing problems.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Amazon.com Check out a TikTok of the bacon bin in action.  Talisman Designs is a small business that specializes in at-home cooking and entertaining products.  Promising review: "This little piggy works perfectly for storing or discarding the grease created from cooking. You can either store the grease/ lard in the container for future use, or as I do, pop the pig in the freezer for a bit, then dispose of the solidified grease. Would buy again." —Amazon.com Customer Get it from Amazon.com for $20.99. 19. A hands-free Bluetooth remote for a silly-right-now purchase you'll be grateful you bought once you get nice and cozy under a blanket while reading on your Kindle. Go ahead and cancel that yoga class you signed up for before you REALLY got into your book.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. It's also great to use while scrolling in the bath so you don't get your phone wet — check it out in action on TikTok! Promising review: "I use this just to scroll while reading on my iPad. It allows me to curl up in the blankets while I have my iPad in a holder. (It may be lazy, but I’m obsessed all the same). Super comfortable to hold/ around your finger. Was easy to connect with my iPad and definitely worth the money in my opinion." —Mandi Arnold Get it from Amazon.com for $19.99 (available in three colors). 20. A pair of reading glasses can let you look at stuff while horizontal so whoever's in the living room can never truly tell if you're asleep or not. What a fun (for you), scary (for them) trick! View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Promising review: "Bought these as a humorous stocking stuffer, and my husband actually uses them! He has neck issues, and he watches tv in the recliner using them. They look hilarious, but if they help him enjoy watching TV without neck pain, it is a win win! They are much higher quality than I expected for the price. I thought they would be flimsy, but they are actually very well made. I was impressed." —Laura S Get it from Amazon.com for $13.85. 21. A large-capacity rotating makeup organizer could help corral all your lippies without you having to declutter. You spent your money on them and you've been putting off wearing some of the fun and more outta-this-world colors. Just wear them! Life is short!!! View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Promising review: "Just another thing TikTok made me buy! The quality of the plastic is really great and I love that you can move the shelves as you see fit." —Reagan Get it from Amazon.com for $27.99.  22. A shaker of edible cocktail glitter that'll jazz up all sorts of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Throw it in some Prosecco or, heck, even some Crystal Light and vodka for a lil' razzle-dazzle.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Bakel is a small business established in 2016 that specializes in edible glitters for food and drink.  Promising review: "Don’t think any further and just buy it. This was so cool and everyone loved it! I got the clear one because it will go with any drink. I will be the one to put this in all my friends drinks. Also had no taste so it was just the look. Sooooooo cool!" —gigi Get it from Amazon.com for $11.99 (available in 17 colors).  23. Plus a set of cylindrical wineglasses can really let that glittery cocktail shine. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Promising review: "I saw these wineglasses on TikTok and had to order them. They are perfect! Will be purchasing again as gifts for my friends!" —diana Get a set of two from Amazon.com for $19.95.  24. A "cryptid construction kit" to help you build your own creature with fridge magnets. OK, Dr. Frankenstein. There are 100,000+ possible combinations. Now, just to come up with a cryptid name. Sorry, but Abomindable Swap Blob is apparently already taken.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Amazon.com Promising review: "My kids had so much fun with these and go back to them all the time to make new creations!" —Whitney McMullan Get it from Amazon.com for $29.95. 25. A moo-tiful American sliced cheese organizer (remember, we're eating more cheese in 2025!) that'll jump out at you visually when you're hankering for a grilled cheese and have hanger tunnel vision.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Promising review: "I buy the the Kraft Single Twin Packs (32 slices), and this holds 24 or 25 slices! I'm happy!" —Mohsin Ahmed Get it from Amazon.com for $7.84. 26. A photo pillow custom made with your fave meme because you're done being an interior design people pleaser. As a horror girlie who salivates over 1) Skeet Ulrich in Scream and 2) Flamin' Hot Cheetos, I made this pillow on my own and it's my favorite thing in my apartment.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. I stumbled upon this hilarious meme on Instagram and immediately knew I had to bring it to life in some tangible way. So, I went ahead and designed a pillow through Shutterfly featuring the meme! It now proudly adorns my couch and tends to catch people off guard during video calls, as it always seems to be staring right at them. Interestingly, every man who's stepped into my apartment has expressed their dislike for it, which only makes me cherish it even more. It’s also given me a craving for Flamin' Hot Cheetos! I'm toying with the idea of creating a matching pillow of Matthew Lillard saying "peer pressure" into a phone. I'll keep you posted on that!  Get it from Shutterfly for $37.99+ (available in various sizes and photo configurations). 27. A shower curtain liner with mesh storage pockets I love and will buy for as long as it's a thing I can buy. If Past You was into simplifying your shower routine, but Present You likes ~options~ and need four Tree Hut body scrubs, because sometimes you're in a Coco Colada mood and other days you're in a Raspberry Fizz mood.   View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Elizabeth Lilly / BuzzFeed News Yep, you're looking at my shower! I upgraded from a corner tension rod caddy and never want to go back. The mesh pockets drain water so your liner won't get all icky. And they make it easy to tell the difference between the minimalist packaging for your face wash and shave cream when it's way too early in the morning. Read my full review of Maytex Pockets Shower Curtain Liner (#2) to learn more about why I'm in love with an object that can't love me back. Promising review: "Great for messy boys! My two boys (ages 10 and 6) share a bathroom, and this shower curtain liner is great for them to keep their soap, shampoo, and a few toys in. Now their stuff isn't left on the floor of the tub/shower. Love this!" —JWag Get it from Amazon.com for $16.20+ (available in two colors). 28. A set of adjustable mug organizers to help you better use your miniscule kitchen cabinet space *and* keep all those funny lil' mugs you've received as gifts. Trust me, the thrift store doesn't need anymore novelty mugs anyway.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Elypro is a boutique company based in New York City that specializes in innovative organizational solutions for home use.  Promising review: "Where have these been all my life? No more unorganized, messy cabinets. Fits all cups and glasses. Amazing." —Ty Get a set of six (to organize 12 mugs) from Amazon.com for $24.99 (available in three colors).  29. An over-the-door stuffed animal organizer can give kids' toys a place to rest, up off the floor instead of requiring your kids make the tough choice of figuring out what toys must go in a decluttering phase.  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Promising review: "Absolutely love this! My kid’s stuffed animals are always all over the place since the only other place we had to store them was on their beds. This has saved us from a messy room and given them their beds back. I definitely recommend it! I may order more." —Hayley Get it from Amazon.com for $28.95 (available in nine colors). 30. A Roku with voice command so you'll truly live your best media-consumption life by not having to type in Derry Girls for yet another spectacular rewatch. (If you've never watched, THAT should be your top 2025 resolution!)  View pictures in App save up to 80% data. I have one of these, and it is GAME CHANGING to not have to type in What We Do in the Shadows for the millionth time just have it pull up on Hulu. These streaming apps' keyboards are hellish and I love not having to use them for everything.  Get it from Amazon.com for $26.36.

Business

The GOP's suggested budget reductions aim at Medicaid and SNAP assistance programs.

2025-03-27 09:53:12

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. For countless families in the Mahoning Valley, assistance programs such as Medicaid and SNAP serve as essential support systems. A plan put forth by House Republicans aims to slash federal expenditures on various programs by trillions over the next decade, intending to finance the continuation of tax cuts that were initially enacted in 2017 during the first term of the president-elect. John Woods, the proprietor of Insurance Navigation, expressed that this situation could result in greater difficulties for individuals who are covered by Medicaid. "Woods stated, 'The individuals who truly benefit from Medicaid often aren't the most vocal. They are those who are in need and face financial instability, which could result in increased medical debt.'" As reported by the Ohio Medicaid Dashboard, approximately 200,000 individuals in the Mahoning Valley have Medicaid coverage. Republican legislators are seeking to slash billions from Medicaid by decreasing federal funding and transferring that burden to individual states. The Republicans are targeting more than just health care for cuts. They are also aiming to save $300 billion by slashing SNAP benefits. Mike Iberis, the Executive Director of the Second Harvest Food Bank, is concerned that this situation may result in an increased demand for assistance within the community.  "Iberis mentioned that when individuals exhaust their funds by the month's end or at the conclusion of a billing cycle, they often turn to food pantries. This trend could lead to an increase in the number of people seeking assistance from our pantries."  Over 100,000 individuals in the Valley are beneficiaries of SNAP assistance. "Woods remarked, 'We are already facing significant challenges with food deserts; this only adds to an already dire situation.'" 

Business

The George H.P. Smith Fund is set to provide multi-year scholarships starting in 2025.

2025-03-31 17:26:48

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The George H.P. Smith Scholarship Fund, created in 2010 to commemorate the contributions of the former mayor of Lewes and educator, will start providing renewable scholarships to seniors at Cape Henlopen High School beginning this year. LEWES Del.- The George H.P. Smith Scholarship Fund, created in 2010 to commemorate the contributions of the former mayor of Lewes and educator, will start providing renewable scholarships to seniors at Cape Henlopen High School beginning this year. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The George H.P. Smith Scholarship Fund, created in 2010 to commemorate the contributions of the former mayor of Lewes and educator, will start providing renewable scholarships to seniors at Cape Henlopen High School beginning this year. (Horizon Philanthropic Services) In the last 15 years, the fund has distributed almost $90,000 to 134 students, assisting with college-related costs like textbooks, fees, and travel expenses. Starting in 2025, chosen students will be eligible for $1,500 scholarships, which can be renewed each year for a maximum of four years. Cape Henlopen High School counselors will oversee the application and selection process.  Donations to the fund can be made through the Greater Lewes Foundation website.

Business

Mark Zuckerberg is set to co-host a reception alongside Republican billionaires in celebration of Trump's inauguration.

2025-03-21 21:11:56

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. During an event at SIGGRAPH 2024, the leading conference focused on computer graphics and interactive methods, Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, emphasized a key point on Monday, July 29, 2024, at the Colorado Convention Center in downtown Denver. Photo credit: AP/David Zalubowski. WASHINGTON — Next week, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg will be cohosting a reception alongside wealthy Republican donors in honor of Donald Trump's inauguration, marking a notable indication of the Facebook founder's support for the president-elect. According to two individuals familiar with the private arrangements, who spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity, the reception cohosted by Zuckerberg is scheduled for Monday evening, just ahead of the inaugural balls. Among the other cohosts are Miriam Adelson, the owner of the Dallas Mavericks and the widow of casino tycoon Sheldon Adelson; Tilman Fertitta, a casino mogul, owner of the Houston Rockets, and selected by Trump to be the U.S. ambassador to Italy; Todd Ricketts, who is a co-owner of the Chicago Cubs; along with his wife, Sylvie Légère. Zuckerberg initially appeared to be an adversary of the former president, as he suspended Trump's accounts on Facebook and Instagram following the assault on the U.S. Capitol by Trump's supporters on January 6, 2021. However, in recent times, he has been working to build a rapport with Trump, joining a group of tech leaders aiming to strengthen their ties with the new administration. Meta chose not to provide any comments on Tuesday. In November, shortly after Trump's victory in the presidential election, Zuckerberg traveled to Florida to have dinner with the Republican at his Mar-a-Lago resort. Additionally, Meta, the parent organization of Facebook and Instagram, contributed $1 million to Trump's inauguration fund. Last week, Zuckerberg revealed a shift in the content moderation policies for Facebook and Instagram, which involves substituting third-party fact-checkers with user-generated "community notes." Trump commented that this new strategy was "likely" a response to the threats he directed at the tech billionaire.

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The GOP's suggested budget reductions aim at Medicaid and SNAP assistance programs.

The George H.P. Smith Fund is set to provide multi-year scholarships starting in 2025.

Mark Zuckerberg is set to co-host a reception alongside Republican billionaires in celebration of Trump's inauguration.

Mark Zuckerberg is set to co-host a reception alongside Republican billionaires for the inauguration of Trump.

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