Happy Kikky If you're looking for a high-yield income vehicle at a discount, the universe of closed-end funds, “CEFs,” can often fill that bill. They frequently sell discounted to their daily NAV/share, which can be to your advantage when deciding when to buy. This article Looking for solid high yield income? The Hidden Dividend Stocks Plus portfolio yields over 9%. It features a variety of overlooked high yield income vehicles, all with good dividend coverage - Common and Preferred stocks, Bonds, and CEF's. One of our Preferred stock picks being called in 2024 has delivered a 27%-plus return, and there's more where that came from. There's currently a 2-week Free Trial, and a 20% discount for new members. Click here to start earning high yield income today. Robert Hauver, MBA, aka “Double Dividend Stocks” was VP of Finance for an industry-leading corporation for 18 years and has been investing for more than 30 years. He focuses on undercovered and undervalued income vehicles and he leads the investing group Hidden Dividend Stocks Plus . With Hidden Dividend Stocks Plus he scours the world's markets to find solid income opportunities with dividend yields ranging from 5% to 10% or more, backed by strong earnings. Features include: a portfolio with up to 40 holdings at a time including links to associated articles, a dividend calendar, weekly research articles, exclusive ideas, and trade alerts. Learn More . Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of ECAT either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Disclaimer: This article was written for informational purposes only, and is not intended as personal investment advice. Please practice due diligence before investing in any investment vehicle mentioned in this article. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. 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.Pete Wicks gushed over his partner Jowita as he was axed from the hit BBC dancing show on Saturday night. The former TOWIE star just missed out on a place in the final. He had to dance off against Love Island star Tasha Ghouri for the last time in the competition. Judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse unanimously chose to save Tasha and send Pete and his partner Jowita home. Pete and Jowita have sparked romance rumours throughout the competition, and reignited them as they performed their Argentine Tango routine as they appeared to nearly kiss at the end of the routine. Right at the end of the performance, they pulled each other in close and positioned themselves as if they were about to lock lips and looked to be getting very close. Read more Fans questioned whether they had really locked lips on social media. It comes despite Pete seemingly being involved with I'm A Celeb contestant Maura Higgins before she left for Australia, after they were pictured kissing. Pete opened up on his feelings for Jowita on the results show and gushed: "There's a lot of things I'm going to take away from this but the most special thing is you. "You're one one of the most incredible people that I've ever met, not just as a dancer but as a person. You've been a ray of sunshine. You've helped me through things in the past three months that I didn't think I could do. And you made me believe in myself and that means more to me than anything." It comes after Maura revealed in the I'm A Celebrity jungle that she had been getting close to a famous face before the show. The Irish beauty, who first rose to fame on Love Island , was being quizzed by her fellow campmates about her love life. She revealed she had been dating someone important before flying out to Australia, and admitted she was missing them in the jungle and that things 'felt different' with him. She also gave her tough three-word opinion on her love, saying: "He's not an a******."
49ers QB Brock Purdy, DE Nick Bosa out, Brandon Allen to start at Green BayKendrick Lamar surprises with new album 'GNX' LOS ANGELES (AP) — Kendrick Lamar gave music listeners an early holiday present with a new album. The Grammy winner released his sixth studio album “GNX” on Friday. The 12-track project is the rapper’s first release since 2022’s “Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers.” Lamar’s new album comes just months after his rap battle with Drake. The rap megastar will headline February's Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show in New Orleans. The 37-year-old has experienced massive success since his debut album “good kid, m.A.A.d city” in 2012. Since then, he’s accumulated 17 Grammy wins and became the first non-classical, non-jazz musician to win a Pulitzer Prize. NBA memo to players urges increased vigilance regarding home security following break-ins MIAMI (AP) — The NBA is urging its players to take additional precautions to secure their homes following reports of recent high-profile burglaries of dwellings owned by Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis and Kansas City Chiefs teammates Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. In a memo sent to team officials, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press, the NBA revealed that the FBI has connected some burglaries to “transnational South American Theft Groups” that are “reportedly well-organized, sophisticated rings that incorporate advanced techniques and technologies, including pre-surveillance, drones, and signal jamming devices.” Ancient meets modern as a new subway in Greece showcases archaeological treasures THESSALONIKI, Greece (AP) — Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is opening a new subway system, blending ancient archaeological treasures with modern transit technology like driverless trains and platform screen doors. The project, which began in 2003, uncovered over 300,000 artifacts, including a Roman-era thoroughfare and Byzantine relics, many of which are now displayed in its 13 stations. Despite delays caused by preserving these findings, the inaugural line has been completed, with a second line set to open next year. Conor McGregor must pay $250K to woman who says he raped her, civil jury rules LONDON (AP) — A civil jury in Ireland has awarded more than $250,000 to a woman who says she was raped by mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor in a Dublin hotel penthouse after a night of heavy partying. The jury on Friday awarded Nikita Hand in her lawsuit that claimed McGregor “brutally raped and battered” her in 2018. The lawsuit says the assault left her heavily bruised and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. McGregor testified that he never forced her to do anything and that Hand fabricated her allegations after the two had consensual sex. McGregor says he will appeal the verdict. At least 19 people are sick in Minnesota from ground beef tied to E. coli recall U.S. health officials say at least 19 people in Minnesota have been sickened by E. coli poisoning tied to a national recall of more than 167,000 pounds of potentially tainted ground beef. Detroit-based Wolverine Packing Co. recalled the meat sent to restaurants nationwide. Minnesota state agriculture officials reported multiple illnesses and found that a sample of the product tested positive for E. coli, which can cause life-threatening infections. No illnesses have been reported outside of Minnesota. Symptoms of E. coli poisoning include fever, vomiting, diarrhea and signs of dehydration. Actor Jonathan Majors’ ex-girlfriend drops assault and defamation lawsuit against once-rising star NEW YORK (AP) — Jonathan Majors’ ex-girlfriend has dropped her assault and defamation lawsuit against the once-rising Hollywood star after reaching a settlement. Lawyers for Majors and Grace Jabbari agreed to dismiss the case with prejudice Thursday. Jabbari is a British dancer who had accused Majors of subjecting her to escalating incidents of physical and verbal abuse during their relationship. Representatives for Majors didn’t respond to emails seeking comment Friday. Jabbari’s lawyer said the suit was “favorably settled” and her client is moving on with “her head held high.” Majors was convicted of misdemeanor assault and harassment last December and sentenced to a yearlong counseling program. Hyundai, Kia recall over 208,000 electric vehicles to fix problem that can cause loss of power DETROIT (AP) — Hyundai and Kia are recalling over 208,000 electric vehicles to fix a pesky problem that can cause loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. The recalls cover more than 145,000 Hyundai and Genesis vehicles including the 2022 through 2024 Ioniq 5, the 2023 through 2025 Ioniq 6, GV60 and GV70, and the 2023 and 2024 G80. Also included are nearly 63,000 Kia EV 6 vehicles from 2022 through 2024. The affiliated Korean automakers say in government documents that a transistor in a charging control unit can be damaged and stop charging the 12-volt battery. Dealers will inspect and replace the control unit and a fuse if needed. They also will update software. Christmas TV movies are in their Taylor Swift era, with two Swift-inspired films airing this year Two of the new holiday movies coming to TV this season have a Taylor Swift connection that her fans would have no problem decoding. “Christmas in the Spotlight” debuts Saturday on Lifetime. It stars Jessica Lord as the world’s biggest pop star and Laith Wallschleger, playing a pro football player, who meet and fall in love, not unlike Swift and her boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. On Nov. 30, Hallmark will air “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story.” Instead of a nod to Swift, it’s an ode to family traditions and bonding, like rooting for a sports team. Hallmark’s headquarters is also in Kansas City. Top football recruit Bryce Underwood changes commitment to Michigan instead of LSU, AP source says ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — Top football recruit Bryce Underwood has flipped to Michigan after pledging to play at LSU. That's according to a person familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to share the recruit’s plans to join the Wolverines. Underwood pinned a post on his Instagram account, showing a post in which On3.com reported that he has committed to Michigan. The 6-foot-3 quarterback played at Belleville High School about 15 miles east of Michigan's campus, and told LSU nearly a year ago he intended to enroll there. Emperor penguin released at sea 20 days after waddling onto Australian beach MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — The only emperor penguin known to have swum from Antarctica to Australia has been released at sea 20 days after he waddled ashore on a popular tourist beach. The adult male was found on Nov. 1 on sand dunes in temperate southwest Australia about 2,200 miles north of the Antarctic coast. He was released Wednesday from a boat that traveled several hours from Western Australia state's most southerly city of Albany. His caregiver Carol Biddulph wasn't sure at first if the penguin would live. She said a mirror was important to his rehabilitation because they provide a sense of company. Biddulph said: “They’re social birds and he stands next to the mirror most of the time.”
Carbon Nanotubes Market Set to Surge at 20.6% CAGR Through 2029, Driven by Emerging Technologies and Global DemandCanadian fund drops bid for Spanish pharma firm GrifolsNEW YORK — Several of President-elect Donald Trump 's Cabinet picks and appointees have been targeted by bomb threats and "swatting attacks," Trump's transition said Wednesday. "Last night and this morning, several of President Trump's Cabinet nominees and Administration appointees were targeted in violent, unAmerican threats to their lives and those who live with them," Trump transition spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said in a statement. She said the attacks "ranged from bomb threats to 'swatting.' In response, law enforcement and other authorities acted quickly to ensure the safety of those who were targeted. President Trump and the entire Transition team are grateful for their swift action." President-elect Donald Trump arrives to speak at a meeting of the House GOP conference, followed by Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) Swatting entails generating an emergency law enforcement response against a target victim under false pretenses. The FBI said in a statement that it is "aware of numerous bomb threats and swatting incidents targeting incoming administration nominees and appointees, and we are working with our law enforcement partners. We take all potential threats seriously, and as always, encourage members of the public to immediately report anything they consider suspicious to law enforcement." Among those targeted was New York Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's pick to serve as the next ambassador to the United Nations. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., is seated before President-elect Donald Trump arrives at a meeting of the House GOP conference, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) Her office said that, Wednesday morning, she, her husband, and their 3-year-old son were driving home from Washington for Thanksgiving when they were informed of a bomb threat to their residence in Saratoga County. "New York State, County law enforcement, and U.S. Capitol Police responded immediately with the highest levels of professionalism," her office said in a statement. "We are incredibly appreciative of the extraordinary dedication of law enforcement officers who keep our communities safe 24/7." In Florida, meanwhile, the Okaloosa County sheriff's office said in an advisory posted on Facebook that it "received notification of a bomb threat referencing former Congressman Matt Gaetz's supposed mailbox at a home in the Niceville area around 9 a.m. this morning." While a family member resides at the address, they said "former Congressman Gaetz is NOT a resident. "The mailbox however was cleared and no devices were located. The immediate area was also searched with negative results." Gaetz was Trump's initial pick to serve as attorney general, but he withdrew from consideration amid allegations that he paid women for sex and slept with underage women. Gaetz has vehemently denied any wrongdoing and said last year that a Justice Department investigation into sex trafficking allegations involving underage girls had ended with no federal charges against him. The threats follow a political campaign marked by unusual violence. In July, a gunman opened fire at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, grazing the then-candidate in the ear with a bullet and killing one of his supporters. The U.S. Secret Service later thwarted a subsequent assassination attempt at Trump's West Palm Beach, Florida, golf course when an agent spotted the barrel of a gun poking through a perimeter fence while Trump was golfing. Among President-elect Donald Trump's picks are Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio for secretary of state, former Democratic House member Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence and Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Susie Wiles, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. Trump named Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to be secretary of state, making a former sharp critic his choice to be the new administration's top diplomat. Rubio, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate on the Republican ticket last summer. Rubio is the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries,” Trump said of Rubio in a statement. The announcement punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator called a “con man" during his unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. And as Trump campaigned for the presidency a third time, Rubio cheered his proposals. For instance, Rubio, who more than a decade ago helped craft immigration legislation that included a path to citizenship for people in the U.S. illegally, now supports Trump's plan to use the U.S. military for mass deportations. Pete Hegseth, 44, is a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has been a contributor with the network since 2014, where he developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. If confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit the top job during a series of global crises — ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing attacks in the Middle East by Iranian proxies to the push for a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah and escalating worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea. Hegseth is also the author of “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” published earlier this year. Trump tapped Pam Bondi, 59, to be attorney general after U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. She was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She also was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist, she served as part of a Trump-allied outside group that helped lay the groundwork for his future administration called the America First Policy Institute. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appears on Fox News and has been a critic of the criminal cases against him. Trump picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a well-known conservative who faced sharp criticism for telling a story in her memoir about shooting a rambunctious dog, to lead an agency crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda. Noem used her two terms leading a tiny state to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. South Dakota is usually a political afterthought. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions that other states had issued and instead declared her state “open for business.” Trump held a fireworks rally at Mount Rushmore in July 2020 in one of the first large gatherings of the pandemic. She takes over a department with a sprawling mission. In addition to key immigration agencies, the Department of Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service, and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. The governor of North Dakota, who was once little-known outside his state, Burgum is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump, and spent months traveling to drum up support for him, after dropping out of the race. Burgum was a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice this summer. The two-term governor was seen as a possible pick because of his executive experience and business savvy. Burgum also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump made the announcement about Burgum joining his incoming administration while addressing a gala at his Mar-a-Lago club, and said a formal statement would be coming the following day. In comments to reporters before Trump took the stage, Burgum said that, in recent years, the power grid is deteriorating in many parts of the country, which he said could raise national security concerns but also drive up prices enough to increase inflation. “There's just a sense of urgency, and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration,” Burgum said. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran for president as a Democrat, than as an independent, and then endorsed Trump . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert Kennedy, who was assassinated during his own presidential campaign. The nomination of Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services alarmed people who are concerned about his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Scott Bessent, 62, is a former George Soros money manager and an advocate for deficit reduction. He's the founder of hedge fund Key Square Capital Management, after having worked on-and-off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. “This election cycle is the last chance for the U.S. to grow our way out of this mountain of debt without becoming a sort of European-style socialist democracy,” he said then. Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her reelection bid this month, but received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, she would oversee the Labor Department’s workforce, its budget and put forth priorities that impact workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and would add penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws that allow employees in more than half the states to avoid participating in or paying dues to unions that represent workers at their places of employment. Scott Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Sean Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Write is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. Wright also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. Wright also won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and adviser who played a key role on energy issues in Trump’s first term. President-elect Donald Trump tapped billionaire professional wrestling mogul Linda McMahon to be secretary of the Education Department, tasked with overseeing an agency Trump promised to dismantle. McMahon led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s initial term from 2017 to 2019 and twice ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. She’s seen as a relative unknown in education circles, though she expressed support for charter schools and school choice. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Brooke Rollins, who graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agricultural development, is a longtime Trump associate who served as White House domestic policy chief during his first presidency. The 52-year-old is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for a second Trump administration. She previously served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and ran a think tank, the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Trump chose Howard Lutnick, head of brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, as his nominee for commerce secretary, a position in which he'd have a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. Trump made the announcement Tuesday on his social media platform, Truth Social. Lutnick is a co-chair of Trump’s transition team, along with Linda McMahon, the former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration. Both are tasked with putting forward candidates for key roles in the next administration. The nomination would put Lutnick in charge of a sprawling Cabinet agency that is involved in funding new computer chip factories, imposing trade restrictions, releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. It is also a position in which connections to CEOs and the wider business community are crucial. Doug Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial, which centered on U.S. assistance for Ukraine. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential nomination, but he was acquitted by the Senate. Collins has also served in the armed forces himself and is currently a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. "We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need," Trump said in a statement about nominating Collins to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. Karoline Leavitt, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. The White House press secretary typically serves as the public face of the administration and historically has held daily briefings for the press corps. Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, was a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, before joining his 2024 campaign. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term before she became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's choice for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has been tapped by Trump to be director of national intelligence, keeping with the trend to stock his Cabinet with loyal personalities rather than veteran professionals in their requisite fields. Gabbard, 43, was a Democratic House member who unsuccessfully sought the party's 2020 presidential nomination before leaving the party in 2022. She endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him this fall. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community,” Trump said in a statement. Gabbard, who has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades, deploying to Iraq and Kuwait, would come to the role as somewhat of an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, was confirmed by the Senate in 2021 following several years in a number of top national security and intelligence positions. Trump has picked John Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman who served as director of national intelligence during his first administration, to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency in his next. Ratcliffe was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump's first term, leading the U.S. government's spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. “I look forward to John being the first person ever to serve in both of our Nation's highest Intelligence positions,” Trump said in a statement, calling him a “fearless fighter for the Constitutional Rights of all Americans” who would ensure “the Highest Levels of National Security, and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” Trump has chosen former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin to serve as his pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency . Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on X , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI.” “We will do so while protecting access to clean air and water,” he added. During his campaign, Trump often attacked the Biden administration's promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referring to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often told his audiences during the campaign his administration would “Drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. In a statement, Trump said Zeldin “will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.” Trump has named Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, as the new chairman of the agency tasked with regulating broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband. Carr is a longtime member of the commission and served previously as the FCC’s general counsel. He has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate three times and was nominated by both Trump and President Joe Biden to the commission. Carr made past appearances on “Fox News Channel," including when he decried Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' pre-Election Day appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He wrote an op-ed last month defending a satellite company owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk. Rep. Elise Stefanik is a representative from New York and one of Trump's staunchest defenders going back to his first impeachment. Elected to the House in 2014, Stefanik was selected by her GOP House colleagues as House Republican Conference chair in 2021, when former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after publicly criticizing Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik, 40, has served in that role ever since as the third-ranking member of House leadership. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. If confirmed, she would represent American interests at the U.N. as Trump vows to end the war waged by Russia against Ukraine begun in 2022. He has also called for peace as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in Gaza and its invasion of Lebanon to target Hezbollah. President-elect Donald Trump says he's chosen former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker to serve as U.S. ambassador to NATO. Trump has expressed skepticism about the Western military alliance for years. Trump said in a statement Wednesday that Whitaker is “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot” who “will ensure the United States’ interests are advanced and defended” and “strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability.” The choice of Whitaker as the nation’s representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is an unusual one, given his background is as a lawyer and not in foreign policy. Trump will nominate former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests as it wages wars against the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah. “He loves Israel, and likewise the people of Israel love him,” Trump said in a statement. “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Trump has been praised by some in this important Republican voting bloc for moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Trump on Tuesday named real estate investor Steven Witkoff to be special envoy to the Middle East. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and was golfing with him at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Witkoff “is a Highly Respected Leader in Business and Philanthropy,” Trump said of Witkoff in a statement. “Steve will be an unrelenting Voice for PEACE, and make us all proud." Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Trump said Wednesday that he will nominate Gen. Keith Kellogg to serve as assistant to the president and special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, a retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues, served as National Security Advisor to Trump's former Vice President Mike Pence. For the America First Policy Institute, one of several groups formed after Trump left office to help lay the groundwork for the next Republican administration, Kellogg in April wrote that “bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties.” (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib) Trump asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, to be his national security adviser, Trump announced in a statement Tuesday. The move puts Waltz in the middle of national security crises, ranging from efforts to provide weapons to Ukraine and worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea to the persistent attacks in the Middle East by Iran proxies and the push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah. “Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda,” Trump's statement said, "and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength!” Waltz is a three-term GOP congressman from east-central Florida. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and also worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Stephen Miller, an immigration hardliner , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump's priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump's first administration. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump's policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation's economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people who are in the United States illegally. Since Trump left office in 2021, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization made up of former Trump advisers aimed at challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as free speech and national security. Thomas Homan, 62, has been tasked with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. Homan, who served under Trump in his first administration leading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was widely expected to be offered a position related to the border, an issue Trump made central to his campaign. Though Homan has insisted such a massive undertaking would be humane, he has long been a loyal supporter of Trump's policy proposals, suggesting at a July conference in Washington that he would be willing to "run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen.” Democrats have criticized Homan for his defending Trump's “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings during his first administration, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. Dr. Mehmet Oz, 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime television talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz's bid for elected office. Elon Musk, left, and Vivek Ramaswamy speak before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at an Oct. 27 campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. Trump on Tuesday said Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency" — which is not, despite the name, a government agency. The acronym “DOGE” is a nod to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency, dogecoin. Trump said Musk and Ramaswamy will work from outside the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance” and will partner with the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” He added the move would shock government systems. It's not clear how the organization will operate. Musk, owner of X and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Trump won the presidential election. Ramaswamy suspended his campaign in January and threw his support behind Trump. Trump said the two will “pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.” Russell Vought held the position during Trump’s first presidency. After Trump’s initial term ended, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought was closely involved with Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that he tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Vought has also previously worked as the executive and budget director for the Republican Study Committee, a caucus for conservative House Republicans. He also worked at Heritage Action, the political group tied to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. Dan Scavino, deputy chief of staff Scavino, whom Trump's transition referred to in a statement as one of “Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides,” was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 campaign, as well as his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino had run Trump's social media profile in the White House during his first administration. He was also held in contempt of Congress in 2022 after a month-long refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee’s investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. James Blair, deputy chief of staff Blair was political director for Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump's economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign this year, a driving force behind the candidate's “Trump can fix it” slogan and his query to audiences this fall if they were better off than four years ago. Taylor Budowich, deputy chief of staff Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump's 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Budowich also had served as a spokesman for Trump after his presidency. William McGinley, White House counsel McGinley was White House Cabinet secretary during Trump's first administration, and was outside legal counsel for the Republican National Committee's election integrity effort during the 2024 campaign. In a statement, Trump called McGinley “a smart and tenacious lawyer who will help me advance our America First agenda, while fighting for election integrity and against the weaponization of law enforcement.” Jay Bhattacharya, National Institutes of Health Trump has chosen Dr. Jay Bhattacharya to lead the National Institutes of Health. Bhattacharya is a physician and professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, and is a critic of pandemic lockdowns and vaccine mandates. He promoted the idea of herd immunity during the pandemic, arguing that people at low risk should live normally while building up immunity to COVID-19 through infection. The National Institutes of Health funds medical research through competitive grants to researchers at institutions throughout the nation. NIH also conducts its own research with thousands of scientists working at its labs in Bethesda, Maryland. Jamieson Greer, U.S. trade representative Kevin Hassett, Director of the White House National Economic Council Trump is turning to two officials with experience navigating not only Washington but the key issues of income taxes and tariffs as he fills out his economic team. He announced he has chosen international trade attorney Jamieson Greer to be his U.S. trade representative and Kevin Hassett as director of the White House National Economic Council. While Trump has in several cases nominated outsiders to key posts, these picks reflect a recognition that his reputation will likely hinge on restoring the public’s confidence in the economy. Trump said in a statement that Greer was instrumental in his first term in imposing tariffs on China and others and replacing the trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, “therefore making it much better for American Workers.” Hassett, 62, served in the first Trump term as chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers. He has a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania and worked at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute before joining the Trump White House in 2017. Associated Press writers Alanna Durkin Richer and Eric Tucker contributed to this report from Washington. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.
An online debate over foreign workers in tech shows tensions in Trump's political coalitionNoneNone
Nissan and Honda to attempt a merger that would create the world's No. 3 automakerOn Monday, it was reported that Penn State their full allotment of tickets, allowing 5,000 tickets to be sold to the general public, per Audrey Snyder of The Athletic. Nittany Lions fans and students immediately took to social media to complain that they had not received tickets. One post from a named Dylan Dawson garnered over 2.5 million views on X. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Thanks for the feedback.
‘Liar your whole life’: Judge slaps telemarketer with hefty prison sentence for fraudBrowns restructure QB Deshaun Watson's contract to create cap space, flexibility, AP source says
BBC bosses were ordered to address ‘cultures of silence’ following accusations against stars
It has been a turbulent week for international traders, with the French government toppled in a vote of no confidence, plunging the euro zone’s second-largest economy into a period of deep political uncertainty. Coming on the back of a stalled German economy in a political stalemate with snap elections coming in February, it has created a very uncertain outlook for Irish exporters as they survey their sales options in their two largest European markets. The OECD last Wednesday cut its forecast for German economic growth next year. Deutsche Banks’s CEO, Christian Fleming at a banking summit in London during the week said Germany needs to adjust its business model, calling for less regulation and lower taxes on business. The political dispute which tipped President Macron‘s premier Michel Barnier over the edge, rejecting the 2025 annual budget, suggests it will now be even harder to address the country’s economic woes. With a deficit of over 6% of GDP, France already has the worst budget imbalance in the eurozone. Irish exporters were firing on all cylinders throughout 2024, with exports in September, being the highest monthly on record. Many were hoping for a stable European market, to counter the likelihood of tariffs damaging trade with the important US market. Many other exporters, however, are quietly euphoric about President Trump’s plans to cut taxes and lighten regulation and are banking on the continued rapid expansion of Irish goods exports to the market, which raced ahead by a whopping 64 % in September. Ireland is not the only country to have gained from the increases in cross-border trading in the past year. The United Nations (UNCTAD) announced last week that world trade is about to reach a record in 2024, breaking through the $3tr mark. They indicate that the increase is largely determined by the increase in trade in services, in which Ireland excels, and which accounted for half of the global growth. However, the UN report points to uncertainty looming over 2025, amid risks of trade wars and ongoing political turmoil in many markets. In particular, they point to potential US trade policy shifts under the Trump administration, including the much-projected tariff increases. Such measures they state risk triggering retaliation, with ripples affecting industries and economies along the supply chain. Of particular concern, and reinforced by the UN report, is the statement that countries most exposed to changes in US policy changes are likely to be those with large trade surpluses with the US. Based on the latest statistics Ireland is one of the top five countries in terms of goods trade surpluses, which is expected to exceed €47bn in the current year. The fact that Ireland buys more from the US in computer and business services, appears not to be recognised by Mr Trump's choice for commerce secretary, Howard Lutnick, stating on the pre-election campaign trail that it's "nonsense that Ireland of all places runs a trade surplus at our expense...when we end this nonsense, America will be a truly great country again". Most annoying is that Lutnick should know better, with his background in selling services internationally from his Irish-based company Cantor Fitzgerald. The big technology companies, including Apple, Intel, Amazon, Facebook and Google, that have driven much of Ireland’s exports across this and prior years, may have been hoping to get an easy ride under Trump. But, they may be mistaken, judging by his statement on his social media platform Truth Social, that Big Tech has run wild for years, suggests he wants to keep pursuing them with antitrust crackdowns. The common refrain amongst executives is that what happens in politics and what happens in business, are not the same thing. But, there is no doubt that an outbreak of political tranquillity in Germany and France would be helpful for European and Irish businesses. In the US, the post-Trump election jump in the stock market has benefited a wide range of companies, both in Ireland and internationally, despite the more outlandish statements of the US political leader. It is to be hoped that the incoming Trump administration will continue the trend of strengthening export controls and heavy tariff increases on exports destined for China and give Europe a break. While Santa may bring peace and joy, the new year is likely to bring much turbulence.I might be a little biased, but I think it’s a lot of fun to shop for the best cooking gifts (I’m always in the kitchen, after all!). There are so many great kitchen tools and accessories out there that make amazing holiday gifts, so if you’re shopping for a home cook, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite options that make the best cooking gifts to give to your food-loving friends and family. My list includes everything from must-have cookbooks to essential appliances like blenders and stand mixers, and you’ll find options for everyone on your list, no matter your budget. I personally use and recommend many of these cooking gifts, and I wouldn’t hesitate to give them to my own loved ones during the holidays! Here are the 30 best cooking gifts for everyone on your list this year. The Best Cooking Gifts 1. For the One Who Needs Dinner Inspo: Skinnytaste Simple My newest cookbook, Skinnytaste Simple , is perfect for busy cooks who want to add new meals to their repertoire. It features more than 120 recipes for every meal of the day, including breakfast and dessert, and the best part is that every recipe contains a maximum of seven ingredients! Many of the dishes in this book have become staples in my household, as they’re easy to make, budget-friendly, and big on flavor. 2. For the Aesthetic Cook: Always Pan 2.0 Our Place’s incredible Always Pan has earned a permanent spot in my kitchen. Its nonstick coating is so good, and it’s one of my favorite nonstick pans because of it! I love all the colors it comes in and the fact that it’s made without PTFEs, PFOAs, and other PFAS that can be potentially toxic if ingested. It’s also $50 for the holidays, so it’s a great time to grab it as a gift! 3. For the Anxious Chef: ThermoPro Meat Thermometer Even though I’ve been cooking for years and years, there are still times when I can’t quite tell if a piece of meat is fully cooked, which is why I always keep this ThermoPro Meat Thermometer in my kitchen drawer. It provides a highly accurate reading in just a couple seconds, and the digital screen is large and easy to read from any angle. It’s a must-have stocking stuffing for home cooks who are just starting out in the kitchen. 4. For the One Who Still Doesn’t Have an Air Fryer: AllCool Air Fryer It’s no secret that I love a good air fryer recipe , and if you’re shopping for someone that still hasn’t hopped on the air fryer train, I highly recommend the AllCool Air Fyer as one the best cooking gifts! It’s so pretty in my white kitchen and it works super well for all my recipes. As a nice companion gift, you could also give them my cookbook Skinnytaste Air Fryer Dinners . Once they start using it, they will totally understand the hype! 5. For the One Who Needs a Cup of Cheer: Festive Bistro Tile Monogram Mug Anthropologie’s popular tile mug got a festive upgrade with Christmas colors and a wreath design. It features a monogram letter for a personal touch and will be the perfect holiday mug for the coffee or tea drinker in your life! 6. For the Leftover Lover: Souper Cubes Souper Cubes are a game-changer when it comes to storing leftovers, and I swear by them for freezing leftover rice and soups. The silicone containers are clearly marked with measurements inside each tray, making it easy to freeze individual portions of leftover soup, chili, sauce, and more. It’s an ingenious solution for anyone who likes to meal prep for the week, and the cubes come in a variety of sizes, with a capacity ranging from two cups to two tablespoons per tray. 7. For the One Who Lives on Smoothies: Ninja Foodi Smoothie Maker This blender is specifically designed for making smoothies, and it’s perfect for making recipes like my Protein PB & J Smoothie Bowl . The blender’s smoothie bowl attachment has a built-in tamper that allows it to blend ingredients with less liquid, but you can also use it to make frozen drinks, soup, and much more. The blender has definitely been a hit in my household, and thousands of reviews rave about it, too. 8. For the One Who Wants Bake Bread: A New Dutch Oven Every home chef needs a Dutch oven if you ask me. These heavy-duty pots are ideal for cooking soups and stews, braising meat, and even baking bread. If you’re willing to splurge on a heritage-grade piece, the StaubCast Iron Round Cocotte will truly last a lifetime and I love displaying mine during the holidays. However, there are plenty of more affordable options that will still work well, including the stylish Hearth & Hand Cast Iron Dutch Oven. Either way, your recipient will definitely be getting an upgrade in the kitchen! Buy the Staub 5.5-Quart Round Cocotte: Buy the Hearth & Hand 5-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven: 9. For the Sourdough Novice: Sourdough Starter Kit I’ve recently gotten into sourdough bread this year, and if someone in your life has been wanting to try it too, this a great place to start. It comes with everything they need to get their sourdough starter going, including a marked far, date-marked feeding band, thermometer, cloth cover, and metal lid. If you’re lucky, they’ll be sharing some bread with you as a thank you. 10. For the Latte Lover: Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ A Nespresso machine is one of the easiest ways to make fresh espresso at home. It’s so much better than a Keurig, and it uses convenient pods to brew rich, tasty espresso. I have the Pop+ model, which maked iced or hot coffee, that I love in the morning. I think it looks stunning in the white color, especially since it lives on my countertop. It heats up in less than 30 seconds, and there are dozens of pod flavors for coffee lovers to explore. 11. For the One Who Loves Cooking Outdoors: Blackstone Flat Top Griddle I love cooking outdoors during the summer, and a Blackstone Griddle makes it easy to whip up things like Smash Tacos , roasted veggies, and even breakfast foods like pancakes. This one has 470 square inches of cooking space across two burners, and it has a side prep table, as well as a lower storage shelf. It even has two wheels and a handle that make it easy to move around outdoors, and I think it would makes for one fo the best cooking gifts for anyone loves grilling! 12. For the Tea Sipper: Fellow Corvo EKG Electric Tea Kettle Anyone who drinks tea on a daily basis needs an electric kettle, and the Fellow Corvo EKG is my favorite one because it’s pretty and quick. This sleek, modern appliance has a matte finish that comes in several colors, and it can boil several cups of water in a matter of minutes. You can even adjust its temperature in 1-degree increments — important if you drink white or green tea, which steeps best at temperatures below boiling. 13. For the One Who Can’t Give Up Fancy Coffee: Zulay Kitchen Milk Frother Your giftee will be able to instantly elevate their mid-afternoon coffee drink with this inexpensive milk frother. It’s super easy to operate with just one button, and it creates creamy milk foam in just 30 seconds. It’s perfect for anyone who loves lattes and cappuccinos, and I particularly like that it comes with a stand for the frother, so it can be stored right on the countertop. 14. For the Grillmaster: Cuisinart Smashed Burger Press Smash burgers are all the rage right now, and the key to these delicious patties is a burger press like this one from Cuisinart. It’s made from cast iron and has a 6-inch diameter, and it’s hefty enough to squish down even the thickest burgers. It’s a must-have for any grillmaster’s tool kit and makes a great inexpensive cooking gift. 15. For the One Who Mixes a Killer Cocktail: Siligrams Monogrammed Ice Cube Tray If your loved one is always serving Old Fashioned and other fancy drinks, they can put a personalized spin on their favorite cocktails with this monogram ice cube tray. The customized silicone mold creates four square ice cubes that come out embossed with their initials, and the cubes will look great floating in any drink. It’s a fun addition to any home bar setup. 16. For the Pizza Connoisseur: Emile Henry Pizza Stone The key to amazing homemade pizza is getting a crisp crust without burning the toppings, and this pizza stone makes it easy to bake dough for my Margherita Pizza to perfection. It has a 14-inch diameter that’s big enough to feed the whole family and its smooth glazed finish that prevents your pie from sticking. You can use it in the oven, on the grill, or even under a broiler, as the stone can resist temperatures up to 900 degrees, and it’s even dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. 17. For the Newlyweds: Marble & Brass Monogram Board These beautiful marble charcuterie boards are perfect for holiday hosting. The slab is 14 inches wide, and it has an inlaid antiqued brass letter in the upper corner. You can choose from any letter of the alphabet to represent the couple’s last name, and the brand also has matching cheese knives to go with it to make the perfect entertaining board. 18. For the Family with Kids: Nostalgia Electric S’mores Maker Who says s’mores are just for the summertime? This electric s’mores maker is a super fun activity for any family with kids, and it allows you to enjoy the iconic chocolatey treats all year round. The central heater is smokeless and flameless, so it’s safe to use indoors, and the surrounding tray conveniently holds your chocolate, graham crackers, marshmallows and more!. My family loves this gadget, and I think it’s something everyone will enjoy. 19. For the One Who Needs a Cutting Board Upgrade: Stainless Steel Cutting Board I’ve been trying to reduce my use of plastic to reduce the amount of microplastics in my food, starting with my cutting boards. This stainless steel one is a great alternative to plastic ones as it’s easy to clean and is a smooth material for chopping. It’s double-sided too in case you need to cut meat and veggies in one go without washing multiple cutting boards. 20. For the One Who Wants a Garden: AeroGarden Harvest Indoor Garden I love cooking with fresh, whole ingredients, and it doesn’t get fresher than produce and herbs grown in your very own garden. For those who don’t have the outdoor space to grow plants—or anyone who just wants to ease into gardening—the AeroGarden makes a wonderful gift. This hydroponic gardening system makes it easy to grow herbs, lettuce, and more, right from your kitchen counter, and it’s foolproof enough that even people with brown thumbs can use it. 21. For the Not-So-Toxic One: Carote Cookware Set I get asked about nontoxic pan recommendations often, and this affordable set is a great bet for any new homeowner. It’s made of a nonstick granite material that is easy to clean. The set comes with two frying pans, two saucepans, a saute pan, and a steamer for most of your cooking needs. 22. For the Hard Core Griller: Meater Plus I also got the Meater Plus after hearing about the hype, and I think it’s worth it for people who grill a lot and like technology. It has a smartphone app, so you can monitor the temperature of your meat from up to 165 feet away from wherever it’s cooking if you’re inside and up to 1,000 feet away if you’re outdoors. Better yet, it will alert you when your food is ready, which is great if you tend to juggle several things at once in the kitchen, so it won’t overcook. It’s one of those things they won’t buy themselves, making it a great cooking gift. 23. For the Fancy Chef: Brightland Cold-Pressed Olive Oil Brightland is known for its high-quality olive oil, made from California olives, and The Artist Capsule contains four delicious infused oils that any home chef will appreciate. The set contains 12.7-ounce bottles of chili, garlic, lemon, and basil-infused olive oil, and the containers are decorated with specially designed artwork, making them beautiful enough to display on the counter. 24. For the Morning Rusher: Dash Rapid Egg Cooker I typically make hard-boiled eggs on the stovetop, but the Dash Rapid Egg Cooker makes getting breakfast on the table even easier. It can hard boil six eggs in a matter of minutes, and the process is truly hands-off, making the appliance a must-have for anyone who tends to rush out the door in the morning. Perfect for helping make egg salad or deviled eggs , the egg cooker comes in a variety of fun colors, and it’s compact and easy to store, too. 25. For the One With a Gorgeous Kitchen: Meyer Lemon Hand Lotion & Hand Soap Set This lovely dish soap and hand lotion set will make an attractive addition to anyone’s kitchen. The set includes a 16-ounce bottle of hand lotion, a 16-ounce bottle of hand soap, and a countertop caddy to hold both products. Williams Sonoma has a fresh Meyer lemon scent that comes in three different finishes to match their current kitchen decor. 26. For the Home Chef: John Boos Cherry Wood Cutting Board If you don’t know what to get your loved one for a cooking gift, you can’t go wrong with a John Boos Cutting Board. Made from solid wood, these boards are extremely durable and provide plenty of space for dinner prep. It can even double as a serving board! I love mine that is made from cherry wood, but the brand also has highly rated options made from maple and walnut. 27. For the Serious Chef: Hedley and Bennet Apron Nothing makes me feel more professional than an apron. If your giftee loves to cook as much as I do (and might be a little messy while doing it), they might appreciate an apron. Hedley and Bennet make some of the most high-quality ones on the market, and they come in so many different colors and patterns. It has three pockets to store cooking tools and it’s machine washable. 28. For the Cookbook Collector: Hearth & Hand Cookbook Holder This pretty cookbook holder would be a useful cooking gift for anyone who cooks a lot—and is the perfect thing to display any of my cookbooks ! The stylish design is made from real wood, and it has a spacious metal ledge that props up a cookbook and holds it open to the right page for less mess trying to hold the page down when your hands are full. 29. For the Hands-Off Cook: Our Place Dream Cooker This stunning multicooker from Our Place acts as both a pressure cooker and slow cooker, so it can be used to make all sorts of meals, such as my popular Chicken Taco Chili or Lasagna Soup . It’s pretty enough to keep out on your countertop at all times and comes in colors to match your Always Pan. The touchscreen control panel lets you adjust the temperature and timer, and there are four easy cooking modes to choose from. 30. For the New Homeowners: Beautiful Stand Mixer The Beautiful Stand Mixer isn’t quite as powerful as a KitchenAid , but it’s a great first mixer for new homeowners or those who are just getting into baking. I think it’s super pretty and looks like a Smeg for a fraction of the price. The mixer has 12 speeds and three attachments to tackle any baking recipe. It even includes a splash shield that prevents splatter while mixing, and it’s a well-made appliance for such a reasonable price. Prices were accurate at time of publishing.
IT’S less “Lock, Stock” and more “Crock Stock” for poor old Guy Ritchie after his new TV show was plundered by thieves – for a SECOND time. I told last week how two robbers in a Toyota Prius drove up to the London set of Paramount+ series The Associate pretending to be lost, before jumping out and making off with some loot. Now sources say the duo came back the following day to try their luck for more expensive gear. And sadly for Guy their low-life ploy paid off, as they apparently went on to swipe kit worth more than £1million. My insider told me: “These guys are scum and after the first robbery they came back and did it all over again. “The second time around they made off with camera lenses and some kit that was worth massive money. “They’ll be making a lot of cash if they can somehow sell it on. The fact the production has been caught out twice makes a total mockery of the security firm and they have been given their marching orders. “Their contract has now ended and another firm is coming on board to tighten things up and make sure this doesn’t happen again. “The Associate is being filmed in and around city streets and naturally there are risks, but this is hugely embarrassing. “Guy is confident it won’t throw filming off but it’s been a hard lesson for everyone involved.” After working in London for well over a decade, I know that even a flash of my crappy old phone is going to make a mugger’s fingers twinge. So leaving kit which is that expensive on the street, you might as well have erected a couple of Belisha beacons either side and a big sign saying: “Free to the man with the fastest Toyota.” PERRIE channelled her inner rock chick in this edgy photoshoot. The former Little Mix star wore loads of dark eye make-up and stuck her tongue out for the December issue of Xmag , which ought to have been renamed Xmas given she is promoting her festive single Christmas Magic. She released the track earlier this month along with a video, starring her son Axel. After launching her solo career this year , Perrie has been working on her debut album, which is expected to come out in 2025. But it remains to be seen whether she’ll beat ex-bandmates Leigh-Anne and Jade in getting hers out first. CHESNEY HAWKES has announced his first album in over a decade – and a reunion with 80s pop star Nik Kershaw, who wrote his hit The One And Only. The beloved British singer is to release Living Arrows – featuring songs inspired by his kids – on February 28. And last night, he put out new single Live Forever, which was penned by Nik and Jake Gosling, who has worked with Ed Sheeran and One Direction. Chesney said: “I didn’t realise straight away, when I started putting these songs together, that I was creating a sort of road map for my kids. “I had them in mind the whole time, because the messages on songs like Live Forever are to do with taking life by the horns, doing what you love and following your instincts. “You have to let them do their own things, make their own mistakes. “That’s what I was doing with this record, trying to give them good advice.” MOVIE hunk Luke Evans admits he beats himself up over body image issues. Despite his bulging biceps, the Beauty And The Beast actor said: “I’ve had to learn to be kinder to myself but I have terrible anxiety about feeling good enough physic-ally. I was on a beach recently and I didn’t want to take my T-shirt off.” He added to the How To Fail podcast: “I don’t want to be in that place. “I know I shouldn’t feel like that, but you know we are sensitive creatures, we’re very delicate.” THE CORRS put on a spellbinding show at London’s O2 Arena on the final night of their Talk On Corners tour. Nearly 30 years on from their debut album, Forgiven, Not Forgotten, Andrea's vocals were just as sharp as the lead singer delivered some of their biggest hits. A friend of the group said: “The Corrs still have a huge fan base and this tour showed them that there is still a huge appetite for their music. “They will come back and tour again. There might even be some new music.” “IT f***ing feels amazing to be here, not going to lie,” Zayn beamed as he took to the stage at the first of two sold-out shows in the capital. “Thank you for waiting, I know I took a while but we are here, so tonight I want you guys to have an amazing night, really enjoy yourself, sing along, scream.” The crowd didn’t need telling twice, losing their minds every time he so much as smiled. Vocally Zayn was flawless, powering through a 17-song set with the pitch perfect precision of Celine Dion in her prime. But while he said he was on top of the world, at times it was hard to tell. In 2017 I was lucky enough to see his former bandmate Harry Styles play the same venue and he jumped around the stage with more energy and presence than 99 per cent of his peers. In contrast, Zayn opted for a more subdued show, sticking to the centre of the stage and letting the vocals do the talking. Beyond his debut single Pillowtalk and more recent track Sweat, things blended into one. CHER has revealed Gene Simmons told her he loved her after just one date. In Cher: The Memoir, Part One, she opens up on her romance with the KISS rocker, which lasted from 1977 to 1979 after they were introduced at a drinks party. She said they went on a date and he flirted with both her and her friend, but neither of them were interested. Then he racked up a massive phone bill calling her from Japan, when he told her of his feelings. Cher recalled: “That’s when he blurted out that he loved me. “We hadn’t even kissed. We’d only been out once before he left. What is it with these men?” SIR ELTON JOHN raised some hackles ahead of his Royal Variety Performance after failing to turn up for rehearsals. An irate backstage source told me: “I found it super disrespectful. “Everyone was bloody there doing their bit but Elton wasn’t at any rehearsal – even the final one with all the other stars.” We previously revealed that Elton was set to introduce a performance from the cast of his hit musical The Devil Wears Prada alongside the show’s star Vanessa Williams. His team denied this was the case, but shortly after our story, ITV confirmed that Elton and David Furnish would be introducing the “eye-catching” routine. On the latest claims, an ITV spokesman said last night: “Elton John was not required to attend rehearsals as he was not performing. “The same applied to others who were there introducing acts and not performing.” The annual event, hosted by Amanda Holden and Alan Carr, took place at London’s Royal Albert Hall last week and will air on ITV in December. And despite the backstage grumbles, we can assure you the show went off without a hitch. It will be well worth a watch. DUA LIPA has got her ultimate home comfort while on the road – her boyfriend. The singer was spotted with actor lover Callum Turner at the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday during a day off from her world tour in Malaysia. Meanwhile, fans in Blighty can see her recent show at London’s Royal Albert Hall on ITV1 on December 8.