Blackhawks fire coach Luke Richardson in his 3rd season after league-worst startJames Fontanella-Khan and Antoine Gara in New York, and Colby Smith , James Politi and Alex Rogers in Washington Your guide to what the 2024 US election means for Washington and the world The richest man in the world tried to doom Scott Bessent’s bid to become Treasury secretary less than a week ago. Last Saturday, the billionaire entrepreneur and Donald Trump confidant Elon Musk said the Wall Street investor’s appointment as Treasury secretary would amount to “business-as-usual”. After Musk’s tweet on X, Bessent’s odds of getting the job on the prediction exchange Polymarket fell. The following day the president-elect’s transition team opened up the search, homing in on three new candidates, Apollo Global chief Marc Rowan, former Federal Reserve official Kevin Warsh and Tennessee senator Bill Hagerty. Rowan, who was in Hong Kong, cut his Asian trip short so he could be interviewed by Trump. He spoke at a conference on Tuesday alongside the chief executives of Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, then boarded a private jet for an 18-hour flight so he could be at Trump’s estate at Mar-a-Lago on Wednesday afternoon. Some content could not load. Check your internet connection or browser settings. Hagerty, meanwhile, had travelled with Trump and Musk to the latest SpaceX launch in Texas, stoking speculation that he was emerging as the preferred nominee. This, just as Warsh, a rising star in Republican economic policymaking circles, was starting to emerge as Wall Street’s favoured pick. But those three new candidacies were sideshows in the battle to win the top cabinet role running the world’s largest economy. By Friday, Trump had gone full circle, returning to Bessent, the South Carolinian hedge fund manager, as his choice. Trump’s pick seemed to signal that he, not Musk or anyone else seeking influence over him, would make the big calls. “Scott is widely respected as one of the world’s foremost international investors and geopolitical and economic strategists” and was “widely respected” the president-elect said. “He will help me usher in a new golden age for the United States”. The infighting between the candidates for the Treasury job was extraordinarily bitter over just a few short days, making Bessent’s comeback all the more dramatic. At one point, his critics began circulating via chat groups documents — seen by the Financial Times — purporting to show the poor performance of his Key Square Group hedge fund. Others questioned Bessent’s close ties to George Soros, the liberal hedge fund veteran for whom he worked and later sought funding from to seed Key Square. Some, including Musk, threw their weight behind Howard Lutnick, a fellow Wall Street investor who co-led Trump’s transition team and had put his name forward for the Treasury role. The Bessent camp retaliated by sharing a new set of documents — seen by the FT — asserting that Key Square had stellar returns, especially during the pandemic, an indication that the hedge fund manager had the skills to weather tough economic conditions. As the rhetoric sharpened, some Republican donors and people involved in the selection process privately complained about Lutnick’s behaviour, arguing he was too brash and outspoken for a position that requires discipline in managing the markets. One person close to Trump went so far as to accuse Lutnick of “abusing his position to put his candidacy ahead of everybody else”. That Trump was being so careful about his Treasury choice suggested a level of uncertainty that he had not shown in his other choices, which came in rapid succession after he won the election on November 5. Trump knew that he could not afford a mis-step. He had to find a person wedded to the populist economic policies he championed on the campaign trail, including sweeping tariffs. But he also needed someone he could trust to protect the metric he cared about most: the US stock market. As he weighed the decision, Trump also withheld any nominations for other important economic posts, including director of the National Economic Council, chair of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, commerce secretary and US trade representative. But by Tuesday one piece of the puzzle had been solved. Lutnick would be commerce secretary, which has sweeping responsibilities, including over export controls. Trump said that Lutnick would also have oversight of USTR, the agency that runs US trade policy that normally has its own role in the cabinet. Sensing an opening, finance billionaires in Trump’s orbit lobbied for Rowan, with some texting their support of him directly to the president. Financial figures in Trump’s inner circle made pitches, too, as did a Trump family member. People close to Rowan told the FT he was interested in taking the role and many executives inside Apollo began to believe he could leave the firm he had built into a $700bn-in-assets colossus. The billionaire investor’s meeting with Trump went well on Wednesday, but Rowan also made it clear that while he was honoured to serve the incoming president, he would not be a yes man, said a person with knowledge of the matter. That independence probably hurt his candidacy, said a person close to him. By Thursday it became clear that it would be a race between Warsh and Bessent. A free-trader with traditional views about the need for a strong US dollar and an independent Fed, Warsh was seen as a potential counterweight to some of Trump’s more radical plans for the economy. He had also made it clear that his priority was to become Fed chair once Jay Powell stepped down in May 2026. Recommended Lutnick’s camp was also in favour of Warsh, according to people briefed about the matter. One option floated was for Warsh to stay in the role until the Fed chair opened up, they added. But that plan appeared too convoluted, opening the way for Bessent to boomerang back into the pole position. His bid was boosted by the support of powerful people in Maga circles, especially Steve Bannon, Trump’s former political strategist, and Lindsey Graham, the Republican senator from South Carolina, cementing his stature as a consensus candidate. Accolades rolled in, including from Larry Kudlow, Trump’s former National Economic Council director, who told the FT that Bessent was “absolutely first rate” and an “excellent choice”. But others lamented the decision. An influential investor said that Rowan would have been a better choice. “Marc manages nearly a trillion dollars, he’s the smartest guy on Wall Street and populists fear smart people,” said the investor. “Bessent is likely to follow Trump’s lead.” Still, as Trump hoped, there was a sense of relief among many Wall Street investors, some of whom took to Musk’s social media site X to show their support. “Scott will be instrumental in unleashing the animal spirits of Trump’s economic plan while also being vigilant against the enemies of our great country,” investor Kyle Bass wrote.
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( ) is one of Canada’s most reliable financial institutions, but its future over the next five years is bound to be an interesting ride. With its earnings report for the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2024, showing a reported net income of $3.6 billion (a 26.8% increase year over year) but adjusted net income falling 8% to $3.2 billion, TD stock’s position as a giant in Canadian banking is solid, but challenges lie ahead. Into earnings TD’s financial performance in fiscal 2024 reflects some resilience despite headwinds. While its full-year adjusted earnings per share (EPS) dipped slightly to $7.81 from $7.91, the showcased strength in reported net income for the quarter. Helped by gains from selling shares. Yet, the overall annual decline in adjusted EPS underscores a slower year for TD stock, shaped partly by economic pressures and its complex acquisitions and divestments. Looking back, TD stock has built a legacy of consistency, which is evident in its stable dividend history. The bank’s forward annual dividend yield stands at a solid 5.12%. Thus making it a reliable choice for income-focused investors. However, with a payout ratio nearing 93%, TD stock’s ability to sustainably grow its dividend might hinge on significant revenue growth or a pivot in its spending habits. Problems with growth The bank’s growth story is marked by international ambitions, notably in the U.S. market, which has been both an opportunity and a challenge. The terminated First Horizon acquisition earlier this year was a blow, but it allowed TD stock to refocus on bolstering its balance sheet. The Q4 report highlighted some restructuring charges in the U.S., which could pave the way for a more efficient operation south of the border. TD stock’s decision not to provide forward guidance, while unconventional, might be strategic. Economic uncertainty, higher interest rates, and evolving regulatory landscapes present variables that could impact long-term plans. By staying flexible, TD stock can adapt to changing conditions, though it leaves investors with more guesswork regarding the bank’s five-year trajectory. Future growth could come from TD’s digital transformation efforts. With consumer preferences shifting to online and mobile banking, TD stock’s investments in technology and innovation might pay off in the long run. Strengthening these capabilities could also reduce costs and improve customer retention. Looking ahead Over the next five years, TD stock’s performance will likely depend on its ability to navigate a slower-growth environment. With a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 18.44 and forward P/E at 9.88, the market has already priced in some optimism for recovery. If TD stock can leverage its strengths in both Canadian and U.S. markets, the stock could regain its 52-week high of $87.99 and possibly surpass it. However, risks remain. TD stock’s total debt of $457.75 billion, coupled with a profit margin of 15.72%, shows the need for disciplined financial management. TD stock’s ability to maintain its reputation as a low-risk, high-reward investment hinges on how well it balances these factors. For long-term investors, TD stock remains a cornerstone of stability in a well-diversified portfolio. While the next five years might bring slower growth, TD stock’s solid capital position, strategic adaptability, and reliable dividend make it a worthy stock to hold. The absence of guidance adds an element of suspense, but for those with a patient outlook, TD’s consistency could still shine. Bottom line In five years, TD stock might not just be stronger. It could emerge as a more agile institution, well-equipped to face the challenges of the 2030s. Investors willing to ride through the could be well-rewarded as the bank leverages its historical resilience to write its next chapter.MSNBC is not doing well as a network. They're reportedly cutting Rachel Maddow's pay, and likely being sold for pennies on the dollar. It's probably too late to turn that ship around, but if MSNBC is the Titanic, Joy Reid is the iceberg that helped sink it. Advertisement She's unhinged and racist, but keeps getting paychecks from the company, so perhaps they decided to back up and hit the iceberg again for good measure. Some day, someone much smarter than this writer will pen a dissertation or book on the Left's pathological, cultish demand that voters cut out family and friends who don't agree with them politically. This writer thinks it's because the Left lives in mortal fear of normal people talking to one another and realizing they a lot in common and that Trump voters are not, in fact, Nazis. This realization would spell the end of the Left and the Democratic Party, and they know it. So they keep telling people to avoid 'pro Trump' family. Like Joy Reid. Watch: MSNBC host Joy Reid: Stay away from pro Trump family members since they ENDED democracy, may... Amy Curtis
PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kaskela Law LLC announces that it is investigating Zuora, Inc. ZUO ("Zuora") on behalf of the company's investors. Additional information: https://kaskelalaw.com/case/zuora/ On October 17, 2024, Zuora announced that it had agreed to be acquired by an investment group led by private equity firm Silver Lake at a price of $10.00 per share in cash. Following the closing of the proposed transaction, Zuora's current stockholders will be cashed out of their investment position and the company's shares will no longer be publicly traded. The investigation seeks to determine whether Zuora shareholders are receiving sufficient consideration for their shares, and whether Zuora's officers and/or directors breached their fiduciary duties or violated the securities laws in agreeing to sell the company at $10.00 per share. Notably, shares of Zuora's common stock traded above $10.50 per share as recently as May 2024. Zuora shareholders are encouraged to contact Kaskela Law LLC (D. Seamus Kaskela, Esq. or Adrienne Bell, Esq.) at (484) 229 – 0750 to receive additional information about this investigation and their legal rights and options. Alternatively, investors may submit their information to the firm by clicking on the following link (or by copying and pasting the link into your browser): https://kaskelalaw.com/case/zuora/ Kaskela Law LLC exclusively represents investors in securities fraud, corporate governance, and merger & acquisition litigation on a contingent basis. For additional information about Kaskela Law LLC please visit www.kaskelalaw.com . CONTACT: KASKELA LAW LLC D. Seamus Kaskela, Esq. ( skaskela@kaskelalaw.com ) Adrienne Bell, Esq. ( abell@kaskelalaw.com ) 18 Campus Blvd., Suite 100 Newtown Square, PA 19073 (888) 715 – 1740 (484) 229 – 0750 www.kaskelalaw.com This notice may constitute attorney advertising in certain jurisdictions. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.Lululemon CEO sees progress in company's efforts to address past lack of newnessAlta Global Group Request for Withdrawal of Registration Statement on Form F-1
BLACKPINK’s Rosé reveals the inspiration behind latest track ‘Number One Girl’LOS ANGELES (AP) — Eric Bieniemy's return to UCLA lasted only one season. The Bruins let go of Bieniemy on Thursday after fielding one of the nation's worst offenses this season. It didn't take head coach DeShaun Foster long to find a replacement. Indiana quarterbacks coach and co-offensive coordinator Tino Sunseri will become the new Bruins offensive coordinator, a person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the Bruins had not yet announced the decision. Sunseri spent one season at Indiana after following Hoosiers coach Curt Cignetti from James Madison. Cignetti and Sunseri worked together for four seasons, the first three with the Dukes, who made the most successful transition from FCS to FBS in history. Bieniemy was hired as associate head coach and offensive coordinator shortly after Foster was hired as head coach in February. Bieniemy was also on the Bruins staff from 2003-05 as running backs coach. Jason Fletcher, Bieniemy's agent, said in a statement that Bieniemy planned to stay only one season in Westwood and termed it a “mutual parting of the ways.” However, Bieniemy signed a two-year contract at UCLA and did have a retention bonus if he was on staff for the 2025 season. "After interviewing for head coaching jobs last year, he wanted to stay active and busy," Fletcher said. “So, he decided to go help out Deshaun Foster, who is like his little brother, at UCLA as opposed to sitting out a year.” Out of 134 Football Bowl Subdivision teams, UCLA was 117th in total offense (328.8 yards per game), 126th in scoring (18.4 points per game) and had the nation's fifth-worst rushing attack (86.6 yards per game). The Bruins — 5-7 in their first season in the Big Ten after qualifying for a bowl the last three years — were the sixth Power Five team since 2000 that didn't score at least 20 points in their first six games. Players also said early in the season that Bieniemy's scheme was difficult to grasp and that play calls could be too wordy. Bieniemy was a two-time Super Bowl champion offensive coordinator with the Kansas City Chiefs but his last two stops have not gone well. He was Washington's offensive coordinator in 2023 but was not retained after Ron Rivera was fired. Bieniemy said in an email to ESPN earlier this year that he was not fired by Washington and that he received NFL offers to coach running backs or be a passing game coordinator. However, when asked during UCLA's spring practice to explain those remarks or what his other job prospects were, he refused to do so. “What I’m going say is this: I’m here coaching at UCLA. All that other stuff, you could go talk to the Commanders. I’ll leave it just like that,” he said. Bieniemy wasn’t retained by new Commanders coach Dan Quinn, who replaced Rivera. Despite his success in Kansas City, Bieniemy hasn’t landed a heading coach job, even though he’s interviewed with more than half of the NFL’s 32 teams. Fletcher said: "The plan was always to return to the NFL in 2025, and he’s looking forward to the opportunities ahead.” Sunseri's immediate priority will be to stem any further losses to the transfer portal. Quarterback Justyn Martin — who was on track to compete for the starting job following the graduation of Ethan Garbers — and running back T.J. Harden have already entered the portal. At Indiana, Sunseri worked closely with Kurtis Rourke, a transfer from Mid-American Conference school Ohio. Rourke went on to have one of the best seasons in Hoosiers history as No. 9 Indiana (11-1, 8-1 Big Ten, No. 9 CFP) broke single-season school records for victories and conference wins and appears set to make its CFP debut in two weeks. Sunseri, like Cignetti, also coached previously at Alabama. Sunseri served as a graduate assistant for the Crimson Tide in 2019 and 2020 after previous stints at Florida State and Tennessee. The 35-year-old Sunseri also spent three seasons with the CFL’s Saskatchewan Roughriders, winning a Grey Cup title as a rookie in 2013 following his college career at Pittsburgh. Marot reported from Indianapolis. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football
NoneJennings rushes for tiebreaking touchdown and Presbyterian defeats Butler 30-27
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Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.Flood warnings were issued after heavy rainfall and melting snow caused river levels to rise rapidly in West Yorkshire, as Storm Bert swept across the region. Twelve warnings were in place along the River Calder around Hebden Bridge and Todmorden, where sirens sounded on Saturday afternoon River levels there peaked at about 16:00 GMT, according to the Environment Agency, with people advised to consider moving household valuables upstairs. A yellow weather warning for rain is in place for parts of West and South Yorkshire until 07:00 on Sunday, with the wintry weather causing travel disruption and leaving around 1,500 homes without power earlier. River levels at Todmorden and Hebden Bridge had exceeded 2.4m (7.9ft) by 17:00 on Saturday, according to the Environment Agency website. At Mytholmroyd, the river level exceeded 4.3m. The agency said flooding of properties was possible at over 4.4m. The Environment Agency said: “Our focus of attention is the Calder Valley, where flood warnings have been issued and sirens sounded. "Minor impacts are possible more widely across Yorkshire, which may continue in places until Tuesday. The overall flood risk is low. "Teams are out on the ground, clearing grids and checking flood defence assets to ensure they're ready to respond if needed." The agency added: "Consider taking appropriate steps to prepare for possible flooding, such as moving things upstairs and getting flood protection equipment ready to put in place." The A646 was closed in both directions from Shaw Wood Road in Todmorden to Church Lane in Hebden Bridge. Calderdale Council said Centre Vale Park, in Todmorden, was closed to allow flood gates to open to help manage river levels. People were advised to avoid the area. Many pubs and businesses were shut in Hebden Bridge due to the risk of flooding. Hebden Bridge Flood Action Group said the Town Hall was open to anyone who found themselves stranded and needed a place to be warm and dry. Josh Fenton-Glynn, the MP for Calder Valley, was in Hebden Bridge to speak to residents. He said: "We have seen some flooding but we're not as bad as 2020 or 2015. Hopefully if people are sensible and stay at home we'll be OK." Earlier in the day, heavy snowfall caused difficulties for motorists. On the M1, one lane was closed northbound between Junction 38 for Huddersfield and junction 39 for Wakefield, with images on social media showing a HGV, which appeared to have slid down an embankment towards the motorway. West Yorkshire Police said the lorry driver was uninjured and the road reopened at 10:15 after the vehicle was removed. Meanwhile, Northern Powergrid said about 1,500 properties had lost power across North and West Yorkshire. The company said it had been "restoring power as quickly as we can" to those affected. The runway was shut at Leeds Bradford Airport earlier. Several flights were heavily delayed, while passengers travelling to Warsaw and Belfast saw their flights cancelled. Some arrivals were diverted to other airports. Train operator Northern was also affected. In sport, Bradford City's match against Accrington Stanley and Halifax Town's clash with Sutton United were postponed. Scarborough Athletic's game against Kidderminster Harriers was also called off. "Particularly exposed parts" of the East Yorkshire coastline between Bridlington and Barmston were covered by another flood alert. Drivers and pedestrians in those areas were advised to take care.
EAGAN, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota Vikings waived cornerback Akayleb Evans on Saturday in another setback for their beleaguered 2022 draft class. Evans started 15 games last season, but he had been relegated to a special teams role this year after the Vikings added veteran cornerbacks Stephon Gilmore and Shaquill Griffin. Evans was a fourth-round pick out of Missouri, one of three defensive backs among Minnesota's first five selections in 2022. Lewis Cine (first round) was waived and Andrew Booth (second round) was traded earlier this year. One of their second-round picks, guard Ed Ingram, lost his starting spot last week. Evans was let go to clear a roster spot for tight end Nick Muse, who was activated from injured reserve to play on Sunday at Chicago. The Vikings ruled tight end Josh Oliver out of the game with a sprained ankle. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFLSpecified Technologies Inc. Unveils Firestop Clash Management and Locator Updates
Larry Wilson: Mr. Schiff goes to Washington, againIsraeli strikes without warning in central Beirut kill at least 15 as diplomats push for cease-fire BEIRUT, Lebanon (AP) — Lebanese officials say Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 15 people and injured dozens in central Beirut as the once-rare strikes in the heart of Lebanon’s capital continue without Israeli warning. Diplomats are scrambling to broker a cease-fire but describe the disputed issues that remain. The current proposal calls for a two-month cease-fire during which Israeli forces would withdraw from Lebanon and Hezbollah would end its armed presence along the southern border south of the Litani River. Lebanon’s Health Ministry says Israeli bombardment has killed more than 3,500 people in Lebanon in the months of fighting that have turned into all-out war. Trump raced to pick many Cabinet posts. He took more time to settle on a treasury secretary WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump launched a blitz of picks for his Cabinet, but he took his time settling on billionaire investor Scott Bessent as his choice for treasury secretary. The Republican not only wanted someone who jibes with him, but an official who can execute his economic vision and look straight out of central casting while doing so. With his Yale University education and pedigree trading for Soros Fund Management before establishing his own funds, Bessent will be tasked with a delicate balancing act. Trump expects him to help reset the global trade order, enable trillions of dollars in tax cuts, ensure inflation stays in check, manage a ballooning national debt and still keep the financial markets confident. Voters rejected historic election reforms across the US, despite more than $100M push JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Election reform advocates had hoped for a big year at the ballot box. That's because a historic number of states were considering initiatives for ranked choice voting or to end partisan primaries. Instead, voters dealt them big losses in the November elections. Voters in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and South Dakota all rejected proposed changes to their voting systems. In Alaska, a proposal to repeal ranked choice voting appears to have narrowly fallen short. The losses in many states came even though election reform supporters raised more than $100 million, easily outpacing opponents. Supporters say they aren't giving up but plan to retool their efforts. The week that upped the stakes of the Ukraine war KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — This past week has seen the most significant escalation in hostilities Ukraine has witnessed since Russia's full-scale invasion and marks a new chapter in the nearly three-year war. It began with U.S. President Joe Biden reversing a longstanding policy by granting Kyiv permission to deploy American longer-range missiles inside Russian territory and ended with Moscow striking Ukraine with a new experimental ballistic weapon that has alarmed the international community and heightened fears of further escalation. Storm dumps record rain in Northern California, while US Northeast deals with winter storms HEALDSBURG, Calif. (AP) — A major storm continues to drop heavy snow and record rain in California, causing small landslides and flooding some streets. Meanwhile on the opposite coast blizzard or winter storm warnings were in effect Saturday for areas spanning from the Northeast to central Appalachia. The storm on the West Coast arrived in the Pacific Northwest earlier this week, killing two people and knocking out power to hundreds of thousands, before moving through Northern California. Forecasters predicted that both coasts would begin to see a reprieve from the storms as the system in the northeast moves into eastern Canada and the one in the West heads south. Even with access to blockbuster obesity drugs, some people don't lose weight Most people taking popular drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy to lose weight have shed significant pounds. But obesity experts say that roughly 20% of patients — as many as 1 in 5 — may not see robust results with the new medications. The response to the drugs varies from person to person and can depend on genetics, hormones and differences in how the brain regulates energy. Undiagnosed medical conditions and some drugs can prevent weight loss. Experts say it can take experimentation to help so-called nonresponders find results. Fighting between armed sectarian groups in restive northwestern Pakistan kills at least 37 people PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AP) — A senior Pakistani police officer says fighting between armed sectarian groups in the country's restive northwest has killed at least 37 people. The overnight violence was the latest to rock Kurram, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, and comes days after a deadly gun ambush killed 42 people. The officer said Saturday that armed men torched shops, houses and government property overnight. Gunfire is ongoing between rival tribes. Although Sunnis and Shiites generally live together peacefully in Pakistan, tensions remain in some areas, especially Kurram. These Peruvian women left the Amazon, but their homeland still inspires their songs and crafts LIMA, Peru (AP) — Many Shipibo-Konibo craftswomen migrated from their Indigenous communities in the Amazon to Peru's capital, Lima, in the past few decades. Their ancestors' legacy remains present through their songs and techniques, and some of them have managed to make a living out of their crafts. Textiles, jewelry and paintings convey the culture, worldview and beliefs from the lands where they were born. Doctor at the heart of Turkey's newborn baby deaths case says he was a 'trusted' physician ISTANBUL (AP) — The Turkish doctor at the center of an alleged fraud scheme that led to the deaths of 10 babies says he was a “trusted” physician. Dr. Firat Sari is one of 47 people on trial accused of transferring newborn babies to neonatal units of private hospitals, where they were allegedly kept for prolonged and sometimes unnecessary treatments in order to receive social security payments. Sari said patients were referred to him because people trusted him and he did not bribe anyone involved with Turkey’s emergency medical phone line. Sari, said to be the plot’s ringleader, faces up to 583 years in prison. Hydrate. Make lists. Leave yourself time. And other tips for reducing holiday travel stress Travel, especially during the holiday season, can be stressful. But following some tips from the pros as you prepare for a trip can make for a smoother, less anxious experience. One expert traveler suggests making a list a week before you go of things you need to do and pack. Cross off each item as you complete it during the week. Another tip is to carry your comfort zone with you. That could mean noise-canceling headphones, playlists meant to soothe airport travelers, entertainment and snacks from home. Carry a change of clothes and a phone charger in case of delays. Stay hydrated. Leave extra time. And know your airline's rules. Downloading the airline's app can help with that.
37 killed, over 100 injured as Shia-Sunni clashes rock PakistanI was talking by phone last week with California’s new senator-elect, Adam Schiff, as he plowed through papers in a temporary basement office of the Capitol in his transition from House member to Congress’s upper chamber — famously, or formerly, “the greatest deliberative body in the world.” More on his feelings about that in a bit. First, as we began our conversation — this was a day before his clownish former House colleague Matt Gaetz dropped out from consideration as attorney general — we had a laugh about the often-ludicrous qualities of so many of the names put forward by the president-elect for his cabinet. “When he was president before” — and before Schiff led an impeachment prosecution against him in the Senate trial — “I had a meeting with him in the Oval Office. And I said, ‘You know, we should work together on infrastructure,’ and I also brought up the high cost of prescription drugs ... He was affable, and personable, and I think the first thing he said to me was, ‘You know, you do a really good job.’ And I think he meant, on TV. Because it echoed something that Jared Kushner told me during his deposition” for the impeachment. “During one of the recesses he came up to me and said, ‘You do a really good job on TV.’ Trump had just attacked me for the very first time, on Twitter. ‘Sleazy Adam Schiff spends too much time on TV,’ and blah blah blah. And I said, ‘Well, apparently your father-in-law doesn’t think so.’ And his response was, ‘Oh, yes he does, and that’s why.’ ... He’s obviously picked a lot of his cabinet by watching them on Fox. And he also watches his adversaries on Fox.” I asked Schiff if he would be able to work with Trump during his second term. “Well, I think he sees political value in attacking me. It’s why I was such a constant feature in his rallies. Even up to the very end, his closing argument was about me — ‘He’s the enemy from within.’ All I can do is do my job. Try to get stuff done in defending our democracy, our rights and freedoms. He can call me whatever he wants. I’m not going to lose focus on core responsibilities.” Back to the difference between being a congressman and a senator. Schiff and the 11 other new incoming senators — six Democrats, six Republicans — just spent the last week in official orientations about how the upper house works. After 20 years in the House, he was at least a bit familiar. But some things are different. “It’s been a combination of briefings from Senate officers and the sergeant at arms — including with our spouses; they wanted us all to get to know each other — about your Washington office, and your district office, and personal security. We would take a meal break and have lunch together. Social interaction is very important. We had other sessions with veteran senators of both parties about things to do, and things not. A main thing seems to be: Don’t just work together and not socialize. Invite people out to dinner. Don’t judge a book by its cover — guys who you know from TV” may be different in real life. I asked about the “greatest deliberative body” idea: “It really seems like a different culture in the Senate,” Schiff said. “There’s a recognition that you can’t get anything done unless you can find a partner on the other side of the aisle. It’s a small place and you can get to know each other well. There is a group of folks in the Senate who don’t want to get anything done. But apart from that group, there’s lots of opportunities to collaborate and deliver and so I’m very excited about it. It’s very entrepreneurial.” “I was worried,” he continued. “I’d been hearing that the character of the Senate was changing — that a number of the bomb throwers in the House had come over — but the climate is very different. There’s a real willingness to say, ‘Hey, we may disagree on this and that, but I know you’re interested in housing, or rural hospitals, so let’s work together.’” Although I didn’t want to get too deep into the weeds on the inevitable question of what’s next for Democrats after they lost the White House, still don’t have the House and lost the Senate, I was still curious about how California’s new senator could work with a guy who rails against him: “This president, given his track record, is going to abuse his office. But my first priority is to get things done. Playing defense is secondary.” Larry Wilson is on the Southern California News Group editorial board. lwilson@scng.com.