Buford vs. Carrollton LIVE STREAM (12/6/24) | How to watch Georgia state playoffs gameFriday, December 20, 2024 The world of travel is ever-evolving, and as we look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that the tourism landscape will be shaped by new trends, emerging technologies, and shifting consumer priorities. Travelers are becoming more conscious of sustainability, wellness, and unique experiences that go beyond the typical vacation. This article dives into the key travel trends and predictions for 2025, offering insight into what’s next for globetrotters and the tourism industry alike. Sustainability has been a growing priority for travelers in recent years, and in 2025, this trend will only gain momentum. Eco-friendly travel options, carbon offset programs, and environmentally conscious accommodations are becoming essential parts of the travel experience. Tourists are now seeking destinations that emphasize green practices, such as zero-waste initiatives, renewable energy use, and sustainable tourism certifications. Hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals are increasingly prioritizing energy efficiency, waste reduction, and eco-friendly design. This trend is not only driven by consumer demand but also by government regulations, certification programs, and industry-wide sustainability goals. Energy Efficiency One of the most critical aspects of sustainable accommodations is energy efficiency. Hotels and resorts are adopting advanced energy-saving technologies such as: For instance, major hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton have committed to reducing their carbon footprint by implementing energy-efficient technologies in their properties worldwide. Boutique hotels and vacation rentals are also following suit by installing solar panels and offering eco-friendly appliances. Discover everything and anything about travel , tourism , trade shows at the Travel And Tour World , including breaking travel news and weekly travel updates for travel trade , airlines , cruise , railways , technology , travel association , DMCs, and video interviews and promotional videos . Waste Reduction Reducing waste is another core aspect of sustainable accommodations. Hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals are taking active measures to decrease waste production and improve recycling. Some of the initiatives include: The elimination of mini shampoo bottles in favor of refillable dispensers is one of the most visible examples of this shift. Large brands like InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) have pledged to eliminate single-use bathroom plastics, a move that significantly cuts down on waste. Eco-Friendly Design and Architecture Accommodations are being designed to harmonize with nature and reduce their environmental impact. Key features of eco-friendly design include: Examples of sustainable design can be seen in properties like the Six Senses chain and smaller eco-lodges in remote areas. These properties offer luxury experiences while maintaining a minimal environmental footprint. Eco-Friendly Transportation Transportation accounts for a significant share of tourism’s carbon footprint, with flights, cruises, and rental cars being major contributors. However, the industry is shifting toward greener alternatives that offer travelers sustainable options for getting from one place to another. Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Green Rentals The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is transforming the car rental market. Major rental companies like Hertz and Enterprise are expanding their EV fleets, providing tourists with cleaner options for local transportation. Countries like Norway, known for their early adoption of electric vehicles, have seen a boom in the number of EV rentals available to tourists. The availability of charging points in hotels and tourist hotspots further supports this shift. Sustainable Public Transportation Public transportation systems are being modernized to reduce emissions and promote eco-friendly travel. This is especially important in large cities and popular tourist destinations, where congestion and pollution are significant issues. Travelers are now choosing train travel over short-haul flights, particularly in Europe, where high-speed trains connect major cities. This shift is encouraged by the lower environmental impact of trains compared to airplanes. Low-Emission Flights and Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) Air travel remains one of the most challenging areas for sustainability, but significant progress is being made. The aviation industry’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 has driven the push for cleaner fuels and greener aircraft designs. Airlines are also being held accountable through sustainability reporting and stricter environmental regulations. Discover everything and anything about travel , tourism , trade shows at the Travel And Tour World , including breaking travel news and weekly travel updates for travel trade , airlines , cruise , railways , technology , travel association , DMCs, and video interviews and promotional videos . Green Tourism Destinations Travelers are increasingly choosing destinations that emphasize sustainability, clean energy, and eco-friendly tourism experiences. Countries and cities with strong commitments to green tourism are reaping the benefits of this trend. Leading Green Destinations Several countries are leading the way in sustainable tourism and attracting environmentally conscious travelers. Other countries like Bhutan, the Netherlands, and Slovenia have also gained recognition for their green tourism initiatives. Sustainable City Destinations Cities are also taking proactive steps to enhance sustainability in tourism. Green cities have become role models for how urban tourism can be sustainable. From the use of electric buses to city-wide recycling initiatives, these cities set the standard for modern eco-friendly tourism. Role of Certification and Accreditation Certifications help tourists identify destinations and accommodations that meet sustainability standards. These certifications ensure that travelers can make informed decisions when choosing where to stay, visit, and spend their money. The role of technology in travel is more significant than ever before. By 2025, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and mobile apps will revolutionize the way people plan, book, and experience their trips. AI-Powered Itinerary Planning AI is redefining how travelers plan their trips. Traditional travel agents are being replaced by AI-driven platforms that offer personalized, dynamic, and data-driven itineraries. By analyzing traveler preferences, past travel behavior, and budget constraints, AI tools can create tailor-made travel plans in seconds. 1. Personalized Travel Experiences AI-powered platforms like Google Travel, TripHobo, and Inspirock provide customized itineraries based on user input. Travelers can specify their interests, preferred activities, and available time, and the AI generates an optimized schedule. Key features include: For example, an adventure enthusiast may receive suggestions for hiking trails, ziplining, or water sports, while a foodie might get a list of popular restaurants and culinary tours. This level of customization enhances the travel experience and saves time that would have been spent researching options. 2. Smart Booking and Reservation Management AI-powered tools simplify the booking process by providing travelers with real-time availability and price comparisons for flights, hotels, and activities. These tools make travel planning faster, more efficient, and more accurate. AI learns from user feedback, ensuring better recommendations for future trips. Virtual Reality Tours Gone are the days of relying solely on photos and reviews to choose a travel destination. Virtual Reality (VR) is giving travelers the chance to experience destinations, hotels, and tourist attractions before booking. VR technology creates immersive previews, allowing travelers to “try before they buy.” 1. Destination Previews With VR tours, travelers can explore landmarks, hotel rooms, and tourist sites from the comfort of their homes. This technology is especially useful for: This hands-on experience boosts traveler confidence in booking destinations, knowing exactly what to expect when they arrive. 2. Enhancing the Booking Experience VR also transforms how travel agencies market their services. Travel agencies can now offer clients a sensory preview of destinations, which increases booking rates. Key applications include: The emotional connection created by experiencing a destination in VR encourages travelers to book sooner, leading to increased conversion rates for travel providers. Seamless Digital Payments Seamless digital payments have become an essential part of modern travel. Tourists no longer need to carry large sums of cash or worry about currency exchange fees. Mobile payment platforms, e-wallets, and contactless payments provide safe, fast, and cost-effective transaction options. 1. Mobile Payment Platforms and E-Wallets Digital payment platforms like PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay allow travelers to pay for services with just a tap or scan. This trend is especially significant for international travelers, who often face exchange rate fluctuations and foreign transaction fees. With mobile payments becoming standard in airports, hotels, and tourist attractions, travelers experience smoother, cashless journeys. 2. Cost Savings and Currency Conversion Seamless digital payments eliminate the need to carry foreign cash or deal with unfavorable exchange rates. Instead, payments are processed at the real-time currency exchange rate. Key benefits include: This payment revolution empowers travelers to make purchases globally with minimal financial stress, contributing to a more convenient and enjoyable travel experience. The demand for health-focused travel has grown significantly, and by 2025, wellness tourism will become one of the most sought-after travel trends. Travelers are prioritizing well-being, seeking experiences that promote mental, physical, and emotional health. Wellness retreats and resorts have seen a surge in demand as travelers seek vacations that offer a blend of relaxation and health improvement. Unlike traditional resorts, wellness retreats emphasize personal growth, self-care, and holistic well-being. From yoga and meditation to detox programs, these retreats provide immersive, rejuvenating experiences. Yoga and meditation retreats are among the most sought-after wellness experiences, providing mental clarity, emotional balance, and physical health benefits. Countries like Bali, India, and Costa Rica are famous for their yoga retreats, while wellness centers in Greece, Thailand, and Mexico are gaining popularity. Detox programs focus on eliminating toxins from the body and mind. These retreats offer specialized diets, cleansing regimens, and natural therapies. Detox retreats can be found in luxury resorts and secluded eco-lodges, with Thailand, Portugal, and the Caribbean offering some of the most well-known detox getaways. Unlike short-term retreats, holistic wellness resorts provide ongoing well-being services during the entire stay. These resorts combine fitness, mental well-being, nutrition, and relaxation into one comprehensive experience. These resorts cater to wellness seekers looking for balance and well-being without sacrificing luxury and comfort. Guests leave feeling renewed, re-energized, and more focused on personal wellness goals. Nature-focused experiences are gaining traction as travelers yearn to reconnect with the natural world. These experiences provide mental clarity, stress reduction, and physical rejuvenation, which are essential components of wellness travel. Activities like forest bathing, eco-therapy, and wildlife immersion offer therapeutic benefits while promoting a deeper connection with nature. Originating in Japan, forest bathing, or “shinrin-yoku,” involves immersing oneself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest. This practice has been scientifically linked to lower cortisol levels (stress hormone) and enhanced mental well-being. Countries like Japan, South Korea, and Finland have made forest bathing part of their wellness tourism strategies. Wellness retreats in the U.S. (like the Blue Ridge Mountains) and European countries like Slovenia also offer this immersive natural experience. Eco-therapy focuses on using natural surroundings to heal the mind and body. This concept is based on the idea that human well-being is deeply connected to the natural environment. These experiences are prominent in destinations like New Zealand, Iceland, and Norway, where unspoiled natural landscapes provide an ideal setting for eco-therapy and nature immersion. Wildlife and wilderness immersion offers travelers a chance to escape modern life and experience the wonder of the wild. Wilderness retreats are rising in popularity as travelers seek peace, simplicity, and detachment from city life. Travelers are moving away from one-size-fits-all wellness programs toward personalized wellness services that address their unique health and lifestyle needs. These services are tailored to meet each traveler’s physical, mental, and emotional goals. Wellness retreats and resorts now provide health assessments to understand the traveler’s goals, health history, and preferences. This approach is common in wellness clinics and health-focused resorts like SHA Wellness Clinic (Spain) and Chiva-Som (Thailand), where wellness programs are tailored for each guest. Fitness programs are no longer generic classes but are personalized to suit individual abilities and goals. Customized fitness plans appeal to health-conscious travelers who want to maintain their exercise routines while away from home. Customized wellness trips also extend to personalized meal plans. The blending of business and leisure travel—also known as “bleisure” travel—is set to become a major trend in 2025. Remote work capabilities have expanded, allowing travelers to extend business trips into personal vacations. Work-from-anywhere packages are specially designed to cater to remote workers who want to combine work and leisure in a single trip. These packages include access to essential amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, co-working spaces, and business support, enabling professionals to stay connected while enjoying the perks of a vacation. Hotels and resorts are upgrading their facilities to accommodate the needs of remote workers. Instead of just offering a “desk in a room,” they now provide complete, productivity-enhancing environments. Major hotel chains like Marriott, Hyatt, and Four Seasons have launched “work-from-anywhere” packages. These packages allow guests to rent rooms as workspaces during the day or book extended stays for “workcations.” Unlike traditional vacation stays, workcation packages cater to longer stays, often offering discounts for week-long or month-long bookings. These options attract digital nomads and remote workers seeking affordable, comfortable, and well-equipped living and working spaces. Work-from-anywhere packages are about more than just productivity — they also focus on well-being and leisure. Work-from-anywhere packages appeal to individuals seeking work-life balance, providing opportunities to work during the day and relax in paradise after hours. Hybrid travel experiences combine business and leisure, creating a new category known as “bleisure” travel. Business travelers extend their trips to explore new destinations, participate in leisure activities, and engage with local culture. Hybrid travel bridges the gap between work and play, offering professionals the chance to combine both in a single trip. This approach is fueled by the realization that remote work no longer confines people to traditional office spaces. Hybrid trips are popular for company retreats, off-site meetings, and professional conferences. Corporate retreats are no longer just about team-building exercises and workshops. Many companies now blend team-building with leisure activities to improve employee morale and engagement. Hybrid experiences provide a way for companies to attract and retain top talent. By offering travel perks as part of employment packages, companies create more meaningful and enjoyable work experiences. Hybrid travel emphasizes cultural immersion, allowing business travelers to interact with the local community. These immersive activities make hybrid travel more memorable, encouraging travelers to return for personal vacations. Destinations like Spain, Italy, and South Africa are especially appealing for hybrid travel due to their rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes. As the digital nomad lifestyle gains traction, countries are adjusting visa policies to welcome remote workers for extended stays. Digital nomad-friendly destinations offer the ideal blend of work, leisure, and community, making them attractive to long-term remote workers. Digital nomad visas allow remote workers to live and work in a foreign country for an extended period without requiring a traditional work visa. These visas benefit countries by attracting talent, increasing tourism revenue, and boosting local economies. Some destinations have become magnets for digital nomads due to affordable living costs, strong internet connectivity, and vibrant communities. Remote workers are drawn to these destinations for their affordability, welcoming environment, and strong remote work infrastructure. The digital nomad lifestyle thrives on community and networking. Nomad-friendly destinations have become hotspots for collaboration, innovation, and professional development. This sense of belonging motivates travelers to stay longer, building lasting relationships in these communities. In 2025, travelers will seek out lesser-known destinations as part of a growing desire for authentic and crowd-free experiences. Over-tourism in popular locations has prompted a shift toward more unique, undiscovered destinations. Emergence of Hidden Gems In 2025, lesser-known destinations will see a surge in visitor numbers. As travelers seek fresh, off-the-beaten-path experiences, countries previously overshadowed by popular tourist hubs will gain prominence. Places like Georgia, Albania, and Namibia are already emerging as new favorites. Travelers are drawn to the untouched beauty, affordability, and authentic cultural experiences offered by these hidden gems. Governments and tourism boards are actively promoting these destinations to attract international visitors, further fueling this trend. Avoidance of Overcrowded Hotspots Over-tourism in iconic hotspots like Venice, Bali, and Santorini has sparked a shift toward quieter, less crowded destinations. In 2025, travelers will prioritize peace and privacy, opting for remote beaches, small towns, and nature retreats over congested landmarks. The rise of sustainable tourism and growing awareness of responsible travel will also push tourists to avoid overburdened sites. Local Immersion Experiences Travelers in 2025 will seek meaningful connections with local communities. Instead of standard tours, they will participate in cooking classes, artisan workshops, and farm stays. Experiential travel that emphasizes cultural immersion and education will rise in popularity, giving travelers a deeper appreciation of local customs, crafts, and heritage while supporting local economies. Luxury travel is evolving beyond five-star hotels and first-class flights. By 2025, travelers will prioritize exclusivity, privacy, and personalized experiences. Private Villas and Yachts Affluent travelers in 2025 will prioritize privacy, exclusivity, and customization, driving demand for private villas and yachts. Instead of crowded resorts or shared spaces, high-net-worth individuals will opt for secluded beachfront villas, mountain chalets, and private island rentals. Yachting vacations will also see a surge, with travelers booking fully staffed luxury yachts to explore remote coastlines. Companies like Airbnb Luxe and bespoke travel agencies are already catering to this demand, offering curated stays and experiences in lavish, private settings. Experiential Luxury Luxury travel in 2025 will move beyond opulence to offer unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. High-end travelers will seek immersive adventures like private wine tastings with master sommeliers, VIP access to fashion shows, and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of world-renowned landmarks. Personalized safaris, underwater hotel stays, and experiential dining with celebrity chefs will also be in high demand, offering more than just luxury — but unforgettable stories. Hyper-Personalization Personalization will be at the heart of luxury travel in 2025. Hotels, airlines, and concierge services will use AI and customer data to tailor every detail — from curated dining menus to personalized welcome gifts. Luxury travelers will expect bespoke itineraries, customized excursions, and tailored wellness treatments, ensuring every moment is uniquely theirs. Adventure tourism has always had its enthusiasts, but by 2025, more travelers will embrace the thrill of adventure-based experiences. Extreme sports, outdoor exploration, and adrenaline-pumping activities will be in high demand. Space Tourism Space tourism, once a sci-fi dream, is set to become a reality by 2025. Companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic are leading the charge, offering commercial suborbital and orbital flights. As costs gradually decrease, more affluent travelers will have the chance to experience weightlessness and view Earth from space. While early flights are limited to ultra-wealthy individuals, advancements in technology and competition among space tourism providers are expected to make space travel more accessible. Travelers will seek the prestige of being among the few who have ventured beyond Earth’s atmosphere, driving demand for this ultimate adventure. Extreme Adventure Packages The quest for adrenaline-fueled experiences will define luxury and adventure travel in 2025. Activities like skydiving, paragliding, bungee jumping, and extreme hiking on perilous trails (like Peru’s Huayna Picchu) will become essential bucket-list experiences. Adventure travel operators will package these activities into exclusive, all-in-one trips that promise unforgettable thrills. Custom safety protocols and expert guidance will be integral to ensure a balance of excitement and security. Multi-Day Adventure Tours Adventure travel will shift from one-day excursions to multi-day tours that combine several activities with nature immersion. Imagine hiking through jungles, camping under the stars, and rafting through rapids — all in one itinerary. These tours offer an immersive escape from daily life, attracting travelers seeking both excitement and a connection with nature. Destinations like Patagonia, New Zealand, and Iceland will see growth in demand for these curated, adventure-packed tours, with operators offering fully guided, all-inclusive experiences for thrill-seekers. Digital Nomad Villages By 2025, purpose-built digital nomad villages will become a game-changer for remote workers seeking a balance of work, play, and community. These villages will offer co-working hubs, co-living accommodations, and curated social activities. Unlike traditional tourist areas, nomad villages are designed for long-term stays, providing stable Wi-Fi, fitness centers, cafes, and wellness spaces. Locations like Madeira (Portugal) and Bali (Indonesia) have already embraced this concept, and more destinations will follow suit. These hubs foster a sense of belonging, with community events, networking opportunities, and knowledge-sharing meetups becoming key highlights. Long-Stay Travel Options Monthly and quarterly rental options will see increased demand as digital nomads prioritize stability and affordability. Unlike short-term vacation rentals, these packages will offer significant cost savings for longer stays. Hotels, resorts, and apartment rental platforms will adapt by offering discounted “30-day-plus” packages. Websites like Airbnb and platforms like Selina already offer long-stay options, but by 2025, this will become a norm. These options appeal to digital nomads who want to explore new destinations while maintaining a consistent work-life balance. Nomad-Friendly Workspaces With the rise of remote work, nomad-friendly workspaces will become essential. Cafes, hotels, and coworking hubs will prioritize business travelers by providing fast Wi-Fi, dedicated quiet zones, and private meeting rooms. In 2025, more accommodations will offer “work-friendly” certifications to attract remote workers, ensuring ergonomic workstations, soundproof rooms, and tech-friendly environments for uninterrupted productivity. Discover everything and anything about travel , tourism , trade shows at the Travel And Tour World , including breaking travel news and weekly travel updates for travel trade , airlines , cruise , railways , technology , travel association , DMCs, and video interviews and promotional videos .
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Government to rest as focus turns to AT&T, ex-state rep. at Madigan corruption trial
Raw Farm milk has been voluntarily recalled. Photo via California Department of Public Health The Marin County Public Health department is warning people not to consume raw milk products after what it calls a “suspected case of bird flu in a child who experienced fever and vomiting after drinking raw milk.” Marin County officials said they are investigating the possible case of bird flu with the California Department of Public Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The child has since recovered, with no other family members who became sick, health officials said. Marin officials said the possible illness was linked to unpasteurized milk produced by Fresno County-based Raw Firm, which is currently after California health officials said its products tested positive for bird flu. But Mark McAfee, CEO of Raw Farm near Kerman, said this announcement represents the latest politically motivated attack against the raw milk community. U.S. sales of raw milk increased by 21% this year. close to the CDC investigation that testing hasn’t been completed, but initial tests have been negative for the H5 avian influenza virus in this case. McAfee said the illness could be the seasonal flu. “There are literally 100,000 people in California drinking raw milk, and you don’t think some of them might get the flu?” McAfee said Wednesday. “This is definitely part of an agenda.” On Dec. 6, state health officials issued an alert to health care providers to test for human avian flu in people who develop flu-like symptoms after consuming raw milk. Due to widespread transmission of bird flu among wild birds, there have been significant outbreaks among dairy cows and sporadic human cases. “Bird flu infections in humans are uncommon but there are ongoing outbreaks in dairy cattle and poultry farms in the United States,” said Dr. Lisa Santora, Marin County’s Public Health Officer, “The risk to the public remains low, as bird flu spread from person to person is rare.” There have been 32 confirmed cases of bird flu reported in California this year. Most bird flu detections in the U.S. have been in ag workers who were exposed to sick animals. The Marin County Public Health department is warning people not Dr. Rolston St. Hilaire, dean of the Jordan College of Agricultural Those celebrating Thanksgiving won’t have to spend as much to A pair of locally based farm associations have weighed inRevolutionary Single-Layer Film Eliminates Helmet Changes, Enhancing Driver Safety and Performance LAS VEGAS , Dec. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Racing Optics®, the global leader in high-performance tearoff visor film technology, proudly unveils its latest innovation: the Twilight Tearoff . This groundbreaking single-layer tearoff is engineered to elevate driver visibility during late-afternoon and early-evening races, providing superior glare reduction and contrast enhancement. The Twilight Tearoff redefines race-day performance by allowing drivers to maintain focus and adapt seamlessly to changing light conditions, eliminating the need for disruptive helmet changes. This innovation represents a significant leap forward in racing vision technology, delivering immediate and measurable benefits to professional drivers and teams alike. "The Twilight Tearoff solves one of racing's most persistent challenges—ensuring optimal visibility as lighting transitions rapidly during twilight races," said Chris Colton , Chief Applications Engineer at Racing Optics . "Our dedication to driver safety and performance drives every innovation, and the Twilight Tearoff is no exception." Transforming Racing at Twilight Racing teams are already embracing the Twilight Tearoff as a game-changing solution for twilight and low-light racing conditions. One racing team manager shared their experience: "In a recent twilight race, the Twilight Tearoff gave our drivers unmatched visual clarity. Transitioning from glaring sunlight to artificial lighting without pausing to change helmets was a decisive advantage that kept us competitive." By streamlining the driver experience, the Twilight Tearoff enhances safety and helps maintain uninterrupted race momentum—a critical edge in the high-stakes world of motorsports. Exclusive Debut at PRI Show 2024 The Twilight Tearoff will make its debut at the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show , held December 12–14, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana . This highly anticipated event marks Racing Optics' 25th anniversary , celebrating a legacy of trailblazing innovations in motorsports safety and performance. Availability The Twilight Tearoff is now available for purchase at RacingOptics.com and through authorized dealers. Teams and drivers looking to gain a competitive edge are encouraged to explore this latest advancement. About Racing Optics For 25 years, Racing Optics has led the field in racing vision technology, delivering innovative solutions that enhance safety and performance. With a commitment to collaboration and innovation, the company continues to push the boundaries of motorsports protective equipment. For additional information, please visit RacingOptics.com . Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2577485/Racing_Optics_Logo.jpg
Jimmy Carter, the 39th US president, has died at 100
The House of Representatives on Wednesday passed a sweeping $895 billion defense policy bill that includes a ban on transgender care for children of military members. What Is in the Defense Bill? The bill passed by the House authorizes a 1 percent increase in defense spending this fiscal year and would give a double-digit pay raise to about half of the enlisted service members in the military. The legislation, which advanced with a 281-140 vote, now heads to the Senate , where additional spending proposals are expected to face scrutiny. Lawmakers have hailed its provisions for military pay increases, including a 14.5 percent boost for junior enlisted personnel and a 4.5 percent raise for others, as critical to improving the quality of life for service members and addressing a growing wage gap with the private sector. Supporters emphasized the bill's focus on addressing systemic challenges faced by military families. Republican Representative Mike Rogers of Alaska, chair of the House Armed Services Committee, noted the difficult living conditions experienced by many junior enlisted members, some of whom rely on food assistance programs to make ends meet. The bill also allocates funding for improved childcare and housing. "No service member should have to live in squalid conditions, and no military family should have to rely on food stamps to feed their children, but that's exactly what many of our service members are experiencing, especially the junior enlisted," Rogers said. "This bill goes a long way to fixing that." However, the bill also includes a ban on transgender medical treatments for children of military members if such treatment could result in sterilization. Cultural Issues Divide the House Despite bipartisan support for much of the bill, a provision prohibiting TRICARE health plans from covering transgender-related treatments for minors has drawn backlash from Democrats . The restriction includes bans on procedures and treatments that could result in sterilization, such as certain hormone therapies. Democratic Representative Adam Smith of Washington, the ranking Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, argued that these treatments have proven effective in reducing anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation among transgender youth. "These treatments changed their lives and in many cases saved their lives," Smith said. "And in this bill, we decided we're going to bar servicemembers' children from having access to that." In addition, Smith estimated that thousands of minors in military families currently access transgender medical care, including hormone therapy and puberty blockers. While Smith said he might have supported a study examining the use of such treatments, he condemned the outright ban on TRICARE health insurance coverage as a step too far. He said Speaker Mike Johnson 's office insisted upon the ban and said the provision "taints an otherwise excellent piece of legislation." Johnson is a Louisiana Republican. Meanwhile, Republican Representative Chip Roy of Texas defended the ban as a necessary measure, saying: "I think these questions need to be pulled out of the debate of defense, so we can get back to the business of defending the United States of America without having to deal with social engineering debates." Smith echoed Roy's sentiment about the need to prioritize military readiness over cultural disputes but underscored the irony of the situation. "And yet, here it is in this bill," he remarked. Strategic Spending and Global Challenges The bill also underscores U.S. strategic priorities, earmarking $15.6 billion for military capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region to counter growing Chinese influence, significantly exceeding the Biden administration's initial request. It also expands U.S.-Israel joint military exercises and restricts the Pentagon from citing casualty data provided by Hamas . While many senators had hoped for a $25 billion increase in defense spending above the levels agreed upon by former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and President Joe Biden earlier this year, those efforts were blocked. Republican Senator Roger Wicker of Mississippi, who is poised to become the next chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee, criticized the spending limits as a significant setback for national security, stating it is a "tremendous loss for our national defense," though he agreed with many provisions within the bill. "We need to make a generational investment to deter the Axis of Aggressors. I will not cease work with my congressional colleagues, the Trump administration, and others until we achieve it," Wicker said. House Republicans have doubled down on their commitment to maintain the McCarthy-Biden agreement's defense spending levels, resisting calls to exceed the cap. They are also pushing to go below the spending levels in non-defense programs, intensifying partisan clashes over budget priorities as the bill heads to the Senate for consideration. The bill is one of Congress 's final legislative priorities before the new session in January. This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.As President-elect Donald Trump promises to take immediate action on a number of fronts once he returns to the White House, he and House Speaker Mike Johnson will continue their talks about the upcoming agenda Saturday at the Army-Navy Game in Landover. The Republican congressional leader, whose son is a plebe at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, is a key Trump ally expected to help push the president’s plans through Congress. “American families are ready to see an American First agenda and we’re excited about that,” Johnson said at a news conference Tuesday. “You hear a lot of talk about the agenda and how it will be formulated and come together right out of the gates in early January. We’re working on that right now. In fact, House Republicans are already working to enact that agenda.” The football game could be one of a few Maryland-based conversations for how that agenda comes together. While the lawmakers have not officially announced other meetings, House GOP leaders are expected to meet for a daylong retreat in the days after Congress begins its next session Jan. 3 — a retreat that is likely to be in Baltimore, the political news organization Punchbowl News reported. Johnson said he and Trump would be talking “in-depth” about their “playbook” this weekend. The top priority, he said, is curtailing the flow of undocumented immigrants at the southern border and tax reform, both of which could be addressed early in 2025. Some of the work is already underway, he noted, began last week with Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy visiting with House and Senate Republicans about their plans to significantly cut the federal budget. Trump has named the two wealthy businessmen to run a new Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. Trump also attended the storied Army-Navy Game as president-elect in 2016, when the 71,600-person crowd greeted him with chants of “USA, USA.” Johnson said Tuesday some of his son’s Naval Academy classmates had recently visited the Capitol. “I guess I got to say ‘Go Navy,’ because my son’s there,” Johnson said. “But President Trump is coming to the game and others, and we’ll all be there together. It’ll be a lot of fun.” Have a news tip? Contact Sam Janesch at sjanesch@baltsun.com , (443) 790-1734 and on X as @samjanesch .
Gov. Janet Mills said she signed an executive order on Friday to establish a task force to examine the opportunities and implications of artificial intelligence for Maine’s people, economy and institutions. Mills said the executive order comes in response to a rapid surge of technological advancements that are poised to revolutionize how people live and work. Nearly one-fifth of the U.S. workforce is classified as “highly exposed” to AI, making them particularly vulnerable to job transformations driven by advancements in artificial intelligence. At the same time, AI has the potential to create new jobs and businesses, improve productivity and efficiency, and reduce barriers to entry in some technical fields. According to Mills, the Maine Artificial Intelligence Task Force will bring together business, education, labor, government and community leaders to study the challenges and opportunities associated with the proliferation of AI. Mills said the task force is charged with preparing policy recommendations that will position Maine to harness the benefits of AI while minimizing risks for people and businesses. The governor’s executive order directs the task force to study and offer recommendations in a report no later than Oct. 31, 2025. Mills said members of the 21-member task force will include leaders from Maine state and municipal government, the University of Maine System and the Maine Community College System, as well as members representing Maine workers, businesses, health care, civil rights advocacy, and a consumer protection organization. The governor will announce members of the Task Force in the coming weeks. The governor’s executive order also establishes a Technical Advisory Committee comprised of subject matter experts in technology, legal issues, energy and workforce policy to advise the Task Force. More articles from the BDN
Opposition Leader John Pesutto defamed ousted Liberal MP Moira Deeming, the Federal Court has found, in a high-stakes judgment that could cost him his job. Pesutto was ordered to pay Deeming $300,000 for the damage to her reputation in a damning judgment that found he had defamed her on five separate occasions. Independent MP Moira Deeming (centre) pictured arriving at court ahead of the judgment. Credit: AAPIMAGE Deeming alleged she had been “tarred with the Nazi brush” as part of Pesutto’s “campaign” to expel her from the parliamentary Liberal Party, her barrister Sue Chrysanthou, SC, had told the court. Deeming, who now sits on the crossbench of the Victorian Parliament, had helped organise the Let Women Speak rally on March 18, 2023. Neo-Nazis were among several groups of protesters that arrived at the steps of parliament that day. She condemned the men, said they were not there to support her cause, and told the court she did not see them until they were escorted away by police. Pesutto moved to expel Deeming from the parliamentary party in the following days. She was instead suspended in a last-minute compromise, but was ultimately expelled weeks later, after threatening to bring in lawyers. Handing down his decision on Thursday after hearing more than three weeks of evidence that damaged the party room and threatened stability, Justice David O’Callaghan agreed Pesutto had defamed Deeming. Rumblings to overthrow Pesutto in October did not amount to anything, but many in the party room had privately accepted that a loss for Pesutto would make his position as leader untenable. John Pesutto and Moira Deeming outside the Federal Court during the defamation trial. Credit: The Age Loading In a damning finding, O’Callaghan found Pesutto had defamed Deeming in a media release, one radio and one TV interview, at a press conference and in an expulsion motion and dossier. O’Callaghan said that while Pesutto had defended the case on the grounds of public interest, honest opinion and qualified privilege, all those failed and the defence of contextual truth did not arise. More to come Get alerts on significant breaking news as happens. Sign up for our Breaking News Alert . Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. License this article Defamation John Pesutto Moira Deeming Victorian Parliament Liberal Party Rachel Eddie is a Victorian state political reporter for The Age. Previously, she was a city reporter and has covered breaking news. Connect via Twitter or email . Most Viewed in Politics Loading
Eric Watkins of Abstrakt Highlights the Challenges of Building Internal SDR TeamsNoneWASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) released its Ways in Which Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) Can Meet Gaps in the U.S. Supply Chain report. This report presents several avenues for MBEs to meet gaps in the U.S. supply chain and discusses opportunities to conduct, commission, and collaborate on new studies with other federal, state, and private institutions on this topic. This report offers a data-driven snapshot of the MBE supplier landscape, analyzing representation of MBE firms in both manufacturing industries and the service industries that support manufacturing. The data shows there is room to grow representation of MBEs, particularly in manufacturing. The report identifies barriers present in supply chains for MBE participation; and the ways in which policy makers, technical assistance providers, and large corporations can utilize MBEs to advance the U.S. supply chain. “MBDA has embarked on a new chapter of our long and proud history to serve and support MBEs,” said Deputy Under Secretary of Minority Business Development Eric Morrissette. “The Minority Business Development Act of 2021 empowered our agency to work toward equity among U.S. firms and strengthen our national economy, and we are forever committed to that mission. Together with public and private sector partners, we will continue to address capital access disparities and highlight sources of alternative financing while closing gaps in the U.S. supply chain.” The report highlights many public and private initiatives directed toward promoting the success of MBEs in supply chain industries and breaking down barriers. Increasing MBE participation in advanced technologies and manufacturing relies on a range of initiatives to ensure MBEs can develop the capacities and skills needed to compete in rapidly changing markets. The report recommends four potential opportunities through which MBEs can help close supply chain gaps through policy and business plan changes: Other suggestions made in the report include addressing unique challenges by MBE demographic groups and expanding qualitative data gathering to learn about the needs of MBEs in manufacturing. This report was mandated under the Minority Business Development Act of 2021. The Act codified MBDA and many of its existing programs. The report, and details of its findings, can be reviewed at www.mbda.gov . About the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA): The U.S. Department of Commerce, Minority Business Development Agency is the only Federal agency dedicated to the growth and global competitiveness of U.S. minority business enterprises (MBEs). For more than 50 years, MBDA’s programs and services have better equipped MBEs to create jobs, build scale and capacity, increase revenues, and expand regionally, nationally, and internationally. ### Attachment Gabriel Cushing Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) gcushing@mbda.gov
Sankey Vs Young: Oil Strategists Face Off in Live Premium-Only Debate With Kevin MuirNEW YORK, Dec. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Halper Sadeh LLC, an investor rights law firm, is investigating the following companies for potential violations of the federal securities laws and/or breaches of fiduciary duties to shareholders relating to: Adams Resources & Energy, Inc. (NYSE: AE)’s sale to an affiliate of Tres Energy LLC for $38.00 per share in cash. If you are an Adams shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options . Staffing 360 Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: STAF)’s sale to Atlantic International Corp. for 1.202 Atlantic shares for each Staffing 360 share. If you are a Staffing 360 shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options . Nabors Industries Ltd. (NYSE: NBR)’s merger with Parker Wellbore. Per the terms of the proposed transaction, Nabors would acquire all of Parker’s issued and outstanding common shares in exchange for 4.8 million shares of Nabors common stock, subject to a share price collar. If you are a Nabors shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options . AlloVir, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALVR)’s merger with Kalaris Therapeutics. If you are an AlloVir shareholder, click here to learn more about your rights and options . Halper Sadeh LLC may seek increased consideration for shareholders, additional disclosures and information concerning the proposed transaction, or other relief and benefits on behalf of shareholders. We would handle the action on a contingent fee basis, whereby you would not be responsible for out-of-pocket payment of our legal fees or expenses. Shareholders are encouraged to contact the firm free of charge to discuss their legal rights and options. Please call Daniel Sadeh or Zachary Halper at (212) 763-0060 or email sadeh@halpersadeh.com or zhalper@halpersadeh.com . Halper Sadeh LLC represents investors all over the world who have fallen victim to securities fraud and corporate misconduct. Our attorneys have been instrumental in implementing corporate reforms and recovering millions of dollars on behalf of defrauded investors. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Halper Sadeh LLC Daniel Sadeh, Esq. Zachary Halper, Esq. One World Trade Center 85th Floor New York, NY 10007 (212) 763-0060 sadeh@halpersadeh.com zhalper@halpersadeh.com https://www.halpersadeh.com
Former US president Jimmy Carter dies aged 100