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The Qatar Travel Mart offers a key platform for industry stakeholders to connect, share insights, and drive the growth of the tourism sector. In a world characterised by globalisation and increased connectivity, the importance of travel and tourism cannot be overstated. Events like the Qatar Travel Mart in Doha serve as vital platforms that bring together industry stakeholders, forge meaningful connections, and stimulate growth in the tourism sector. As we evaluate the significance of such exhibitions, it becomes evident that they play a crucial role in defining the future of travel both regionally and globally. The Qatar Travel Mart is destined to become an established hub for showcasing not only Qatar’s diverse offerings but also the best destinations from around the world. Participants will engage in valuable discussions about the latest trends across various tourism sectors, including Sports, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), Business, Cultural, Leisure, Luxury, Medical, and Halal Tourism. This breadth of focus is not only beneficial for attendees but also promotes a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of travel today. One of the standout objectives of the Qatar Travel Mart is to position Qatar as the gateway to the Arabian Gulf. With its strategic geographical location, rich cultural heritage, and world-class hospitality infrastructure, Qatar has the potential to become a central travel and tourism hub. Events like this provide a definitive platform to showcase these attributes, enabling international buyers and visitors to discover what makes Qatar unique and inviting. Moreover, the gathering of diverse entities including Destination Management Companies (DMCs), hotels, tour and cruise operators, travel agencies, travel technology firms, and tourism boards creates a holistic ecosystem for collaboration. Such collaboration can lead to innovative partnerships and new strategies that enhance the visitor experience. By coming together in this way, stakeholders can share knowledge, best practices, and ideas that propel the industry forward. Sustainable travel practices A significant advantage of events like the Qatar Travel Mart is the opportunity for networking. Face-to-face interactions foster stronger relationships and often lead to fruitful collaborations. Building trust and rapport is paramount in the travel industry, and having a dedicated forum for these interactions can help create lasting connections that benefit all parties involved. Additionally, discussions on relevant trends and innovations in travel can pave the way for enhancing the way we approach tourism. For example, with the rise of eco-tourism and sustainable travel practices, the event will offer a platform for attendees to explore how to adapt their offerings to meet these growing consumer demands. As travelers become more conscious of their environmental impact, the industry must respond with viable solutions and experiences that prioritise sustainability without compromising quality or luxury. Furthermore, showcasing Qatar’s extensive offerings from its rich cultural sites to modern attractions will help foster interest in the destination. This is especially significant as Qatar prepares to host major events, including the FIFA World Cup. The travel mart can serve as a springboard for promoting the country on an international stage, where visitors can experience firsthand the warm hospitality that Qataris are known for. In conclusion, the Qatar Travel Mart presents an invaluable opportunity for industry stakeholders to connect, share insights, and contribute to the development of a flourishing tourism industry. By bringing together a diverse array of participants and focusing on the latest trends, this event will not only elevate Qatar’s position in the global tourism landscape but will also ensure that the region is well-prepared to welcome and impress travelers from around the world. As we embrace this vibrant future, I firmly believe that Qatar has the potential to become a leading travel destination, captivating visitors with its unique blend of tradition, luxury, and innovation. This article is an opinion piece by Maryam AlJassim and does not necessarily reflect the views of Doha News, its editorial board, or staff. Maryam AlJassim is a marketing professional dedicated to strategising the marketing and communications sector to new heights while preserving and celebrating the cultural heritage and community pride that propel Qatar. 0 0Hannah Hidalgo, Notre Dame overpower USC on the road in top-10 matchup
In an era when information travels at breakneck speed across vast digital networks, the very act of trying to hide certain data often paradoxically ensures its broader dissemination. This ironic dynamic, known as the “Streisand effect,” encapsulates a critical tension at the heart of contemporary media ecosystems: attempts to suppress or censor information frequently result in that information being shared more widely and gaining even greater cultural resonance. Conceptually, the Streisand effect aligns with a set of interrelated theories from communication studies, media ethics, political science, and sociology that explore how power, secrecy, and transparency collide in the digital sphere. The naming of this effect traces back to a high-profile incident involving the American singer and actress Barbra Streisand, who sought to remove an innocuous aerial photograph of her home from a public online archive. Her attempt at legal action not only failed to conceal the image but also propelled it into public consciousness, transforming an obscure photo into a widely recognized symbol of the futility of certain censorship efforts. In the years since, the Streisand effect has been invoked to describe countless scenarios in which a suppression attempt has had precisely the opposite outcome, inadvertently amplifying the visibility of the contested information. The Streisand effect has long-since moved beyond a cultural anecdote into a conceptual lens through which we can examine the interplay between censorship, digital activism, and networked people. It resonates with theoretical frameworks in media studies and cyberlaw that explain how information—once digitized—does not simply vanish at the behest of a single authority figure. Instead, the attempt to stifle speech often triggers counterforces that intensify attention and circulation. More than a curiosity or quirk of the internet age, the Streisand effect raises profound questions about control, audience psychology, viral mechanisms, trust in authoritative institutions, and the ethics of public communication. The Streisand effect sits at the intersection of several core ideas in the study of media and communication. On one side, classical theories of censorship and propaganda have long held that efforts to control what the public sees, hears, and reads run the risk of sparking resistance and curiosity. J.S. Mill’s philosophical arguments about the importance of free speech and John Milton’s “Areopagitica” both highlight that suppressing ideas can inadvertently make them more appealing. Even a five-year-old child interacting with their parents embodies that. While these thinkers operated in pre-digital worlds, their observations resonate powerfully in an internet-driven context. In the digital era, communication occurs within a decentralized web of platforms, forums, and social media channels, allowing information to ricochet from one node to countless others at lightning speed. This distributed network structure makes it inherently more difficult to control narratives. Here, the Streisand effect can be seen as a manifestation of network theory principles, where attempts to remove content from a node can trigger attention from multiple connected nodes. Information becomes replicated and mirrored, spreading like wildfire, often beyond the jurisdictional reach of the initial censor. Conceptually, the effect is in dialogue with ideas about “forbidden fruit” and psychological reactance: when individuals perceive that certain knowledge is being withheld from them, their desire to access and disseminate it intensifies. The cognitive interplay between scarcity, curiosity, and the innate human impetus to resist perceived control fosters conditions ripe for the Streisand effect. Likewise, within political communication and digital activism, the effect dovetails with notions of “information cascades,” wherein social proof and the bandwagon effect drive people to share content precisely because it is being suppressed. In 2003, environmental photographer Kenneth Adelman took thousands of aerial images of the California coastline for the California Coastal Records Project, a public initiative to document coastal erosion. Among these images was a photograph of Barbra Streisand’s home. Although the image was not initially singled out or widely circulated, Streisand’s attempt to sue Adelman and the associated website for $50 million to have the photograph removed brought widespread media attention to it. Before the lawsuit, the image had been downloaded only a handful of times; in the aftermath, its visibility soared as global news outlets covered the story and internet users flocked to view what Streisand wanted hidden. The Streisand effect quickly transcended its origin story. Since then, it has been referenced in relation to a host of incidents spanning entertainment, politics, corporate branding, social justice campaigns, and beyond. WikiLeaks, for example, became a lightning rod for the Streisand effect: when governments and corporations attempted to block access to leaked documents, supporters and activists replicated and redistributed those files across mirror sites, magnifying their reach. Similarly, efforts by authoritarian regimes to tamp down dissenting voices often trigger widespread international attention, human rights reporting, and solidarity campaigns that amplify the suppressed message. More recently, attempts by political figures to remove incriminating tweets or videos have ignited the Streisand effect. The internet’s permanent memory—embodied in archiving tools like the Wayback Machine—thwarts erasure. Efforts to edit history, conceal past statements, or disappear embarrassing content often lead to journalists and activists spotlighting these very attempts at suppression. The effect has even extended into celebrity culture: attempts by public relations teams to quash rumors or scandalous images can inadvertently accelerate their spread, turning minor gossip into major controversy. Moreover, as social media algorithms privilege engagement—likes, shares, and comments—censorship attempts can become their own form of viral currency. The more a piece of content is framed as “secret” or “forbidden,” the more likely users are to engage with it, share it, and comment on its significance. In this environment, trying to stifle discourse can resemble tossing gasoline onto a smoldering fire. Human psychology lies at the heart of the Streisand effect. One key ingredient is the principle of psychological reactance, identified by psychologist Jack Brehm in the 1960s. Reactance posits that when individuals perceive their freedom of choice or access to information is threatened, they experience an emotional drive to restore that freedom. Attempts at censorship, particularly in open societies accustomed to broad speech protections, often ignite a collective reactance. Audiences do not merely consume information passively; they become motivated participants seeking to undermine the censors and affirm their autonomy. Another psychological dimension is the “forbidden fruit” phenomenon, where information labeled as suppressed or secretively removed attains a heightened allure. Social beings are drawn to that which is hidden, as uncovering secrets promises insider knowledge, prestige, or the thrill of rebellion. This dynamic is supercharged in digital spaces, where communities form around discovery, investigation, and sharing. The democratization of communication tools means anyone can become a whistleblower, archivist, or curator of hidden truths. These psychological drivers interact with group identities and in-group/out-group dynamics. When people identify as part of an information community—be it Reddit sleuths, political dissidents, or fandom collectors—they take collective pride in outsmarting suppression efforts. The Streisand effect can thus catalyze a sense of camaraderie and mission. The very networks that censorship attempts aim to disrupt become even tighter-knit and more determined to keep the contested information in circulation. The digital architecture underlying modern communication amplifies the Streisand effect. Unlike traditional, top-down broadcast models, digital platforms function as decentralized, user-driven networks. The spread of information is often organic, fueled by peer-to-peer sharing. However, it is also algorithmically orchestrated, as platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube use recommendation engines designed to boost user engagement. When content is “forbidden,” engagement often skyrockets. Users rush to view, share, and debate it. The algorithms notice this surge and respond by pushing it into more feeds, magnifying its visibility. Each attempt to remove or block the content may prompt a new wave of re-uploads, mirrors, and commentary, ensuring that it remains accessible through a variety of back channels. The Streisand effect also intersects with the darker realms of information warfare. State actors, intelligence agencies, and strategically motivated hackers might plant controversial documents or misinformation online precisely to lure their targets into attempts at suppression. By prompting heavy-handed takedowns, they trigger a wave of viral attention and inadvertently legitimize the content’s significance. In this sense, the Streisand effect can be weaponized as a strategic tool: provoking an opponent into censorial overreach that backfires spectacularly. Through this lens, controlling the narrative in digital spaces becomes an intricate game of psychological manipulation, platform maneuvering, and memetic spread. Corporate entities are increasingly aware of the Streisand effect’s implications. In attempts to manage reputational crises, companies sometimes try to remove negative reviews, unflattering images, or damaging press. Ironically, these efforts can escalate minor issues into public-relations catastrophes. The brand, which intended to appear protective of its image and values, comes across as secretive, manipulative, or untrustworthy. In contrast, some brands have learned to embrace transparent communication policies. Rather than hiding criticism, they publicly address concerns, provide context, and invite dialogue. By doing so, they can transform potential scandals into opportunities for authenticity and trust-building. When customers see that a company is not trying to suppress information, they are more likely to view that company as accountable and honest. The Streisand effect, in this sense, serves as a cautionary tale: attempting censorship in the age of digital empowerment can do more harm than good. Politically, the Streisand effect often plays out when authoritarian regimes try to silence dissent or democratic leaders attempt to manage controversies behind closed doors. For instance, efforts to censor media outlets or online platforms to hide state-sanctioned abuses, leaked corruption files, or embarrassing diplomatic cables can unleash a torrent of attention from international media, human rights organizations, and activist networks. The result is often the opposite of what the censor intended: global scrutiny, condemnation, and sustained coverage of the originally suppressed information. After the French government tried to remove Wikipedia's article on the military radio station Pierre-sur-Haute, the article rocketed to the top of French Wikipedia (attribution: S. RIMBAUD). The Streisand effect is not solely the domain of corporate or political players. Grassroots social justice movements and marginalized communities sometimes leverage the effect to draw attention to issues that powerful actors attempt to hide. When police departments try to suppress video evidence of misconduct, activists seize upon the censorship attempt to highlight systemic issues, circulate the suppressed evidence more widely, and mobilize public outrage. The initial attempt at concealing wrongdoing ironically strengthens the movement’s moral leverage, showing how even clumsy censorship can serve as a catalyst for greater awareness and calls for reform. Social justice campaigns can thus find tactical advantage in understanding how the Streisand effect functions. It encourages a strategic approach: activists anticipate censorship, set traps for attempted suppression, and design their messaging so that any blocking attempt backfires into broader coverage. Here, the effect aligns with the broader ecology of digital activism, where information asymmetries and suppressive tactics often energize rather than deter reformist energies. Academics and thought leaders in communications, cyberlaw, and sociology have helped frame and elaborate the Streisand effect in more formal theoretical terms. Scholars like Ethan Zuckerman have discussed how digital networks facilitate the rapid spread of information in unexpected ways, highlighting the “cute cats” theory of internet content—meaning that platforms designed for innocuous sharing can become powerful tools for political mobilization once censorship attempts occur. Legal theorists such as Lawrence Lessig have pointed to how intellectual property law and content takedown notices can trigger counterproductive amplification. Sociologist Manuel Castells’ theory of networked society also provides a framework for understanding the decentralized power dynamics that foster the Streisand effect. Critical voices in media ethics have explored how content moderation efforts on large platforms can backfire. They emphasize that while some moderation is necessary, overly secretive or draconian measures can lead to a sense of disenfranchisement and erode public trust. Meanwhile, journalists and media watchdogs document case studies that illustrate the Streisand effect’s ubiquity. By cataloging these instances, they contribute to a growing body of evidence that suppression attempts often yield unintended consequences. At its core, the Streisand effect raises pressing moral questions about communication in the digital age. Should all information be freely accessible, regardless of its context or harm potential? What responsibilities do individuals, platforms, and institutions have in shaping the knowledge landscape? On one hand, the effect underscores the value of transparency and openness. It discourages paternalistic attempts to manage public discourse behind closed doors. When the public learns that certain truths are being hidden, trust in those concealing the truth erodes, and skepticism toward authority grows. This dynamic serves as a check on corporate and governmental overreach, potentially strengthening democratic ideals. On the other hand, not all information is innocuous. Certain data might infringe on privacy, promote hate, or endanger vulnerable populations. Complex moral dilemmas arise when preventing the spread of harmful content unintentionally boosts its profile. The Streisand effect forces communicators and regulators to navigate a precarious tightrope, balancing the public’s right to know with the moral imperative to avoid spreading damaging or false information. It also implicates the role of technology platforms, which must decide how to respond to takedown requests without unintentionally fanning the flames of controversy. These moral dimensions invite a reevaluation of censorship policies. If attempts at suppression often fail or backfire, perhaps a more nuanced approach—founded on contextualization, critical literacy, and open debate—is necessary. The Streisand effect nudges us toward transparency as a virtue, but transparency alone is not a panacea. An informed public must be equipped with the media literacy skills to analyze and contextualize the information they encounter. The reality of the Streisand effect means institutions and individuals must be prepared to engage with it. This means: Transparent Communication Policies: Institutions should adopt policies that favor openness and clarity over secrecy. When confronted with unflattering facts, addressing them head-on rather than attempting concealment can build trust. For corporations facing a scandal, a prompt and honest statement acknowledging mistakes and outlining remediation steps is often more effective than a covert takedown strategy. Contextualizing Controversial Content: Instead of deleting or blocking information, communicators can provide context, fact-checking, and expert commentary. By reframing potentially damaging material within a broader narrative, they reduce its allure as “forbidden knowledge.” This approach empowers audiences to engage critically rather than sensationalizing the hidden. Media Literacy Education: An informed public is less susceptible to knee-jerk reactions and the allure of secrecy. By equipping citizens with the tools to evaluate sources, understand media ecosystems, and recognize disinformation tactics, media literacy education can minimize the effectiveness of both censorship and the counterproductive effects of censorship attempts. Proactive Crisis Management: Anticipating controversies before they arise and having a roadmap for ethical, transparent responses can help organizations avoid overreactions. Strategists can rehearse crisis scenarios, developing responses that reduce panic and minimize the temptation to suppress information in the heat of the moment. Critical Discourse Forums: Encouraging open discussion and debate in moderated forums allows contentious topics to be aired without resorting to deletion. By fostering respectful dialogue, platforms and organizations create a public sphere where misinformation can be challenged, and harmful content can be contextualized or debunked. Leveraging the Effect for Good: Activists and social justice groups, aware of the Streisand effect, can leverage suppression attempts to draw attention to critical issues. By documenting censorship attempts and highlighting them as evidence of wrongdoing, they can rally public support and galvanize meaningful change. The Streisand effect also symbolizes a broader cultural shift in how power operates in networked publics. Traditional gatekeepers—governments, mainstream media outlets, powerful companies—no longer enjoy uncontested control over narratives. Instead, networked citizens possess a heightened ability to counter attempts at censorship. The Streisand effect emphasizes that information is not a single, discrete commodity that can be centrally managed. It is a fluid, replicable, crowd-driven phenomenon. The Streisand effect is more than an internet curiosity. It stands as a crucial case study in understanding the unpredictability, interconnectedness, and evolving power relations of the global information landscape. From its origin in a legal battle over a single photograph, this phenomenon has grown into a robust conceptual framework for examining how efforts to silence information can result in louder, more widespread conversation. The effect bridges multiple disciplines—communications theory, psychology, sociology, cyberlaw, political science—and resonates with thinkers who have long warned about the unintended consequences of censorship. In a world where information flows at unprecedented volumes and speeds, attempts to control that flow are often counterproductive. Instead, the Streisand effect encourages a pivot toward transparency, dialogue, and critical engagement. As we navigate a future rife with challenges—misinformation wars, authoritarian clampdowns, corporate PR disasters, and the struggle for digital rights—the Streisand effect remains instructive. It teaches us that the networks we have built thrive on the interplay of curiosity, resistance, and shared identity. Censorship often triggers rebellion, and secrecy can breed discovery. The moral imperative is not merely to acknowledge the effect but to engage thoughtfully with what it implies about power, ethics, and the responsibilities of all communicators, from individual citizens to multinational platforms. The Streisand effect is, at its core, a reminder that information ecosystems have personalities and patterns of their own. Attempts to shape these ecosystems through force or concealment frequently backfire. The more you try to hide something in the digital age, the more it demands to be found. And once found, it spreads uncontrollably, carried along by human curiosity, algorithmic affinities, and the moral heartbeat of a public that will not be kept in the dark. Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.
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'Worst leak in streaming history': Our team is ..., update on ‘Netflix hack’ that leaked episodes of Terminator Zero, Squid Game and other shows online1. A hot chocolate Advent calendar so you can try out a new, delectable hot cocoa flavor on each of the 12 days leading up to Christmas, like gingerbread, peppermint swirl, chocolate cherry, and salted caramel donut (YUM). Promising review: "These 12 days of hot chocolate are bringing me some delicious moments this winter, and that makes me very happy. I am on day three, and so far, the pistachio macaroon is my favorite. Each taste is one of a kind, and does not mimic any of the other flavors in any way. This is a mini advent calendar, but the taste isn’t mini at all!" — Amber Get it from Amazon for $20.99. 2. A Hallmark Christmas Movie bingo set you'll want to whip out when your bestie comes over for your annual cheesy Christmas rom-com night. Now you can have even *more* fun filling out this bingo sheet for all the tropes we know and love as they inevitably appear on-screen — like the boyfriend from the big city, the ~looming deadline~, and, of course, a man in flannel. The Crafty Chick Co. is a Connecticut-based Etsy shop that specializes in wooden gifts and accessories. Promising review: "The laser cutting is so nicely done, and the bingo spots are so clever. My Hallmark movie-loving friends absolutely loved it!" — Gloria Echeverria Get it from The Crafty Chick Co. on Etsy for $19 . 3. A fluffy artificial tree with branches that look like they've been dusted with snow ❄️ so even if a "white Christmas" rarely manifests where you live, you can still gaze at this beauty in your living room. This doesn't come prelit, so you can use any lights you already own, or grab some new ones ! And I highly recommend adding a white tree skirt around the bottom to make it look like a pile of snow underneath. Promising review: "You can't beat this tree anywhere, especially for the price! Just add lights, and it's a winter wonderland. Easy to set up. The kids were very excited to start decorating it. My son even thought the snow was real! I am very happy with our purchase." — teresa Get a 7.5-foot tree from Amazon for $129.99 (available in four sizes and three colors). ❄️ Psst — if you already have an old snow-flocked tree that's starting to look a little yellow, check out this textured snow spray to revive it and make it look brand new! It's also great for adding a wintry touch to garland and wreaths. 4. And light-up birch trees that are so beautiful and versatile, you might even want to leave them up all year. Combined with your other winter and holiday decor, though, they'll create the most magical feeling, like you really are walking through through a winter wonderland. And they can go inside or outside! You could pair these with the snowy Christmas tree above to really create the look of a wintry forest. Promising review : "I'd buy more if I had the space. I bought these for Christmas decorations, and I may keep them up year-round — they’re so pretty!! Seriously, amazing value for the money. They sell these same trees in individual packs for like $50 a tree at Marshall's, so this was definitely a great price. They were packaged really well, and they were easy to put up. Just set them where you want them, stake them to the ground (stakes included), and spread the branches out how you’d like them. My neighbors loved them, they were the talk of the block!" — Elley Get a set of two 6-foot trees from Amazon for $81.90 (available in nine sizes and sets, including single trees if you don't want a pair). 5. Some iridescent hanging snowflakes for hanging in your entryway, along a mantle, in your kitchen window — anywhere they can catch the light and sparkle. Seriously, people rave about how beautiful these are in person, so you may want to grab more than one pack! Just a heads up it takes a bit of time to punch out the holes in these and bend them to look dimensional, but it's totally worth it! The pack comes with 15 snowflakes in three different sizes and string to hang them. Promising review : "Look, I am so lazy about decorating. These looked effortlessly beautiful in my living room window. My kids love them, you can see them from the street, and they look wonderful with some green garland. They do tangle a bit, so be careful putting up and taking down. It came in various sizes, which I loved. Felt like great value for money. The paper is pretty sturdy as well, which helped with durability." — Asia Get a pack of 15 from Amazon for $11.99 . 6. Bath bombs in the shape of Christmas pudding — I've seen a lot of unique bath bombs in my day, but these might be one of the best things I've ever seen. Not only do they look like the iconic British dessert, but they *smell* like it too, so you can indulge in some truly heavenly baths while partaking in some holiday self-care. Artemisia Lore is a small business based in the United Kingdom that sells creative bath bombs. Promising review: "These bath bombs are gorgeous and smell so good!! The attention to detail is second to none. I treated myself to one and it was amazing!! These bath bombs are really big and included an awesome free sample bath bomb. The exquisite detailing and packaging drew my attention to this shop and the amazing stories fascinate me and make these bath bombs a complete gift for the holidays. Can't wait to order more across the pond. These bath bombs are even more beautiful in person and the quality is second to none." — shikon01 Get it from Artemisia Lore on Etsy for $7.94 . 7. A set of six metal reindeer tea light holders you can honestly sneak into your home decor as soon as the weather gets chilly and leave up all winter long. They'd make an adorable addition to your dining table if you plan on hosting for the holidays, lighting up your spread and delighting guests to no end. If you don't already own tea lights, you can pick up a set of 100 soy wax tea lights for $21.99 to last you all season. Promising review : "Such a delightful set of candle holders! They are sturdy and well made. I picked them from a variety of similar offers because of the nice detail/shape of the deer. And they delivered!" — AH Get them from Amazon for $14.99 . 8. A pair of funny can coozies that'll keep your winter lagers and seasonal IPAs cold (and your hands comfortable) through all the holiday festivities. Daisy Lane Company Store is a small biz that makes a bunch of great giftable items, from coozies and ornaments to keychains and more. Promising review: "I absolutely love these, all year long. The color looks white in the picture, but they're actually gray. Not that I care; in fact I think that's better anyway." — Tori Get a pack of two from Daisy Lane Company Store on Amazon Handmade for $15.95 (or snag a set of four for $22.99 ). 9. A "Stitch a Day" embroidery Advent calendar for stitchers looking for a holiday project — the best part is that once it's completed, you'll have a lovely piece of decor for years to come. Promising review : "This kit is absolutely perfect for crafters at any level. The kit includes everything with simple directions, but leaves plenty of room for more embellishments if you're more advanced. (I'm tempted to add beads to mine — beads not included.) I'm most excited that while there are little squares to stitch every day during advent, there's the design of the house that I can work on in the meantime so I don't have to wait until December to start my project." — Crafty Stacy Get it from Uncommon Goods for $45 . 10. A pair of plush light-up gnomes here to overlook all of your holiday activities and give your home the coziest glow at night. Don't forget the AAA batteries ! Promising review: "Love it! Exactly what my living room needed for extra holiday magic. Perfect size and lighting." — Lily Ice Get them from Amazon for $16.19+ (available in two sizes). 11. A dazzling snowfall lantern that's like an ~elevated~ version of your classic snow globe — it would look so magical near an entryway or in any dark corner of your home. Just add batteries or plug it in via USB to kickstart a glittery, continuous snowstorm within. (No shaking needed!) It comes with a USB cord for plugging it in, or you can snag some AAA batteries for it if needed! Promising review: "These battery-operated snow globes are the best new gift of this Christmas season!!! Ingenious, constantly rotating glittery snowflakes and a pretty little light to shine on the scene. A wonderful new decoration that will last for Christmases to come." — M. Foreman Get it from Amazon for $27.13 . 12. A tabletop USB-powered Super Mario Bros. tree to ~power up~ your holiday decor, especially if your gaming setup feels a little lacking compared to the rest of your home. Why have a regular star topping your tree when you could have a Super Star? Promising review: "This little Super Mario Christmas tree is absolutely adorable. It’s perfect for any desk or shelf. It comes with lights already attached. You can always add mini ornaments if you wanted to. It’s perfectly cute without. It comes with a USB cord already attached. I definitely recommend this for any Super Mario fan." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $39.99 . 13. Or a replica of Charlie Brown's Christmas tree if the holiday isn't complete without your annual rewatch of A Charlie Brown Christmas — and yes, that's Linus' iconic blue blanket wrapped around the base. It plays the "Linus & Lucy" Peanuts theme (and includes two AAA batteries). It's also an officially licensed Peanuts item! Promising review: "'It's Christmas, Charlie Brown!' Just looking at this tree brings a smile. Simple, elegant in its humility. It just brings a bit of nostalgia remembering all past Christmases watching Charlie Brown and the gang on television kick off the Christmas season in our house . It is a pleasure to own a replica of the original. Adding the theme at the push of a button is a nice touch. We absolutely love it!" — D. Stovell Get it from Amazon for $23.91 . 14. A new pair of satin pajamas so you can wake up and pretend it's Christmas morning...before you have to roll out of bed and go to work because it's only Dec. 1. Sigh. Promising review : "This is hands-down my favorite pajama set! It’s breathable, comfy material that feels oh so luxurious. I feel like royalty when I wear this set to bed. I got it in three colors — black, dark blue, and purple. Do yourself a favour and get this now!!" — Elizabeth Hill Get them from Amazon for $25.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 41 colors). 15. A mini waffle maker that makes Christmas tree-shaped waffles, which will be perfect for Christmas breakfast but also in the days and weeks leading up to it. Sprinkle some cranberries on top for that special holiday touch! This only makes one waffle at a time, so it might not be the best option if you want to make a *ton* of waffles for a big family, but if you're cooking for just a few people or spending the holidays by yourself, this would be perfect. Promising review : "This one is a little more 3D than the others I have and was so fun to do gingerbread waffles over the Christmas season. Nonstick. I love it!" — otasc Get it from Amazon for $19.95 . 16. Artificial mini Christmas trees to bring more of that rustic winter charm to your space — they're quite small, so you can scatter them around pretty much anywhere to enhance your other decor. Bakers love to use them as cake toppers too! Plus, you can pretend you live in a magical holiday forest (instead of, in my case, a loud dirty city). The set gets you trees of four different sizes (5.1 inch, 4.1 inch, 3.3 inch, and 2.3 inch) so your forest has a natural varied look to it. Promising review : "Love these little holiday trees. They came in a really cute box and they were all in great shape. No bending or breaks in any of them. I think they redesigned their shipping and have made it a little better from what I’ve seen in other reviews. These will be perfect on my mantle this Christmas." — Cassie Chappell Get them from Amazon for $15.59 . 17. A darling Rudolph doormat because the red-nosed reindeer leads Santa's pack, so it's only fitting he should lead guests into your home as well! Just note that the red and black buffalo plaid mat in the reviewer photo is not included, but you can find a similar one here if you love that look! Promising review: "Excellent doormat and super cute! Very thick — good for getting snow and mud off your boots in the winter. Great size! I am extremely impressed!" — Mtngrl84 Get it from Amazon for $20.89+ (available in five sizes). 18. Snowflake string lights to bring a warm, cozy glow to any room — and you can leave them up all winter long. Hang them on a wall or drape them around other Christmas decor to light them up. You get 20 feet of lights with 40 snowflakes, and there are two different lighting modes: twinkle/flash and steady on. Three AA batteries are needed! Promising review : "Wow these are just perfect. They’re so cute, especially for winter. I put them right above my bed. The only thing is that they are much smaller than it looks like in the picture; I would say they are about an inch to an inch-and-a-half in circumference. But that works just fine for me and I didn’t have a problem with it." — brooke Get them from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in four styles, including warm or cool lights). 19. Or some regular (but equally magical) fairy string lights that'll totally channel those winter wonderland vibes and help boost your mood when it gets dark at 4 p.m. by washing your home in their warm glow. Some reviewers even say they look like snow from a distance! These look even prettier layered behind sheer curtains ! BTW, many reviewers say the cord is short, so you may want to pick up an extension cord if you don't already have one. Promising review: " ❄️✨Winter wonderland vibes ✨❄️ So glad I bought these! My intention was to use them just for Christmas decor, but I’ve fallen in love with the pretty glow it gives my bedroom. These babies will be staying up year round. 🤩" — JLG4 "Love this light curtain! Looks like it’s snowing in Arizona! Awesome golden glow." — Claire Wade Get them from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in nine colors). 20. Some Eddie Bauer flannel sheets giving you (or your holiday guests) the coziest place to drift off to dreamland. Made of 100% cotton flannel and brushed three times for *extra* softness, these'll keep you comfortably warm on chilly nights, but hot sleepers swear they don't overheat in these either. And they come in all sorts of wintry designs that make them feel even cozier. Promising review : "I am a first-time flannel sheet purchaser. Over the years I have purchased many Eddie Bauer clothing items and choose to purchase Eddie Bauer sheets because I know their products are quality. The woodland animals with scarves are adorable. Originally, I purchased them for my rental cabin. I wanted my guests to feel comfortable in the cooler weather. I needed to 'test' them before letting my guess sleep on them. Last night I made my own bed with them. I am a hot sleeper and usually have linen bedding. I was worried flannel sheets would make me feel too hot and would cause me to have a poor night's sleep. I found out I certainly was wrong. The sheets were so cozy, not too hot and I had the best night's sleep in a week. Oh, my goodness, now I suppose I need to order another set of sheets to keep on hand for my cabin guests! I LOVE these soft and cozy sheets. Thank you, Eddie Bauer. You have converted me over to your flannel sheets for the cool winter months." — Amazon Customer Get a queen set from Amazon for $42 (available in sizes twin–king and 39 patterns). 21. And a pair of snowflake throw pillow covers to update your couch or bed for the festive season. The nice thing about these covers is they're easy to store and break out again next year! These are pillow *covers* so be sure to grab inserts if you need 'em! Tip: Opt for inserts that are 2 inches larger than the cover for optimal fluffiness (so a 20x20 insert for an 18x18 cover, for example). Promising review : "These pillow covers are so cute for the winter. For the price, I think they are perfect. They have zippers and are thick and sturdy. I highly recommend them! They look expensive as well! I bought the white and gray ones to combine on my gray couch and they are adorable! I have gotten so many compliments!" — Orinda Get them from Amazon for $16.99 (available in five colors). 22. A truly *chef's kiss* selection of Christmas sweaters from Tipsy Elves (which you might remember from Shark Tank ), any one of which basically guarantees you'll take home the winning prize at your office's ugly sweater competition. I'm partial to the one where Santa is riding the Loch Ness monster. Promising review : "Very nice sweater, fits great, and the quality is also very good, as expected from Tipsy Elves . I own five other holiday sweaters from this company. They really do Christmas sweaters right, with attention to detail and great quality materials, and they fit true to size. Awesome pretty sweater , I got compliments at the family Christmas party all night. This is certainly no ugly sweater, I promise you." — Lisa Get it from Amazon for $49.95 (available in women's sizes XS–4X and 41 designs). 23. Or another Tipsy Elves favorite: A holiday onesie you can pull on anytime you're feeling cold (or if you're trying to keep the heating bill down), with convenient pockets for holding your ~essentials~ (aka candy cane Hershey's Kisses). Promising review : "We absolutely LOVE these onesies. They’re durable, thick, warm, and very well made for the money they are a great value! We already have our next set picked out. The zipper is good quality, and the colors are bright and vibrant — even after a few washes. The sizing is perfect, and durability is top-notch. Definitely a lot nicer quality than the ones I’ve purchased from Walmart in the past." — Jessica Get it from Amazon for $64.95 (available in men's and women's sizes XS–3XL and 33 designs). 24. A 5-foot, LED-lit inflatable snowman for your front yard if you're ready to feel like you're living in the gosh dang North Pole (even if snow is sadly not in the forecast). This cheerful guy will be ready to greet you every day after a long commute home, and neighbors will be slowly down as they pass by to appreciate this cutie. Promising review : "It's half the price charged by the big box stores for the same performance. You get a big 5-foot inflatable for the same price you get the smaller 2–3-foot inflatables elsewhere. I put mine on a timer for five hours operation per night, and after three weeks it's still going strong, and the air pump had gotten much quieter than the initial startup. Very satisfied with looks and quality, and suspect that it will last many seasons ." — Bob H. Ray Get it from Amazon for $29.99 . 25. And an outdoor Christmas tree illuminated with 300 multicolored LEDs and topped with a glowing star that even Santa will have to pause and appreciate for a few moments. It features eight different lighting effects, including a steady-on option. Promising reviews : "So beautiful and outstanding in the night." — Audrey "This 'dancing' tree is the star of our little neighborhood. I am so excited to get it back out this year!" — Kay Get it from Wayfair for $73.99+ (originally 129.99+; available in three sizes). 26. A Christmas coloring tablecloth to keep your littles entertained while the rest of the fam is chatting it up over good drinks and food — and honestly, the adults will probably want to join in on the coloring fun too! You can use pretty much anything to color this in, including markers, crayons, colored pencils, gen pels, and more. In addition to this Christmas theme , it's available in a Hanukkah design, a Happy Holidays design, a New Year's design, and a general winter design . Promising review : "This is the product you need to elevate your holiday/family gatherings. I had one for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and it brought young, old, bored, shy, and electronically obsessed to the table together. I picked up an extra big box of washable markers. Just buy it." — Jack Lindau Get it from Amazon for $26.95 . 27. Pine cone pre-lit garland you can scatter across a table or place inside a mason jar for dreamy holiday vibes. This garland is about 6.5 feet long. Promising review: "Adds a lot of sparkle mixed with nature. Very pretty lights for your tree or wreaths or to decorate the staircase or mantle. Very versatile and pretty. I bought two but could have used at least four." — AnnieP Get it from Amazon for $15.98 . 28. And a battery-operated pinecone-shaped wax candle so you can enjoy its flickering glow on winter evenings without any of the stress of an open flame, i.e. it won't drip all over your nice tablecloth or be a fire hazard if you accidentally doze off. It uses two AA batteries and has a timer function where it'll light up for five hours, then automatically shut off for 19 hours. You should get up to 200 hours of runtime before needing to replace the batteries! Luminara is a small business! Promising review: "I love this Luminara pinecone candle. I bought two of these for Christmas decor but they are so lovely, I will use them all winter long to brighten my evenings ." — madwoman Get it from Amazon for $33.99+ (available in two colors and four sizes). 29. Some holiday-themed leggings that'll add a festive pop to your outfits, perfect for pairing with your slouchiest sweaters and boots when you're headed out to a holiday market or tree farm! Reviewers also love wearing these to holiday parties or on Christmas Day (when you want to be comfy but on-theme). Promising review : "Yoooo these leggings are amazing!! Puts me in the Christmas spirit! These are a perfect fit; I did order a size up (I usually wear 2X but ordered a 3X) and I’m so happy I did 'cause I love the way it fits! The print stayed just how it was [without stretching too much] and they are so soft! So happy I ordered these since I plan on making these my Christmas Day pants! 💝" — Nakeya Kempton Get them from Amazon for $19.99 (available in women's sizes S–4XL and 23 designs). 30. A ridiculously soft red plaid throw blanket you can curl up with all winter long — but the colors will make it look especially great next to all your Christmas decor. You can also get this blanket in a bigger size if you want to use it as a Christmasy bedspread! These matching pillow covers help tie the festive look together. Promising review : "If you haven't pressed 'add to cart' yet DO IT NOW. This is the softest fl*ffin' blanket I've ever held in my arms, both before and after washing. I've dreamt of this blanket for years and not in my wildest Lifetime-watching, couch-lounging days did I think I would find it. I'm not weird, but I would marry this blanket if I could and if you're married please know that if you buy it, you will consider a divorce while you figure out how to marry it too. Must be spun out of angel hair and puppy tears. Not sure how it got past customs and I don't care. Order this blanket or spend the rest of your life knowing you made the biggest mistake you will ever make." — Maverick Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in four sizes and 15 styles). 31. A Lego gingerbread house kit — it's way less messy, and you don't have to worry about it going bad before Christmas! Promising review : "'Is that real gingerbread?' You might think the above question was asked by an elderly relative but, no, it came from a friend in her 30s. This is one of the most beautiful kits Lego has produced to date. Whimsical and wonderful don't begin to describe this lovely kit. Lego fans already expect a hefty price, and this is no exception. But it has lots of parts and is quite intricate and detailed. What makes all Lego kits supremely wonderful is that if you get tired of looking at them or playing with them, you can take them apart and store them easily. And, of course, you can repurpose any of the parts to any original project you want since EVERYTHING in Lego is compatible, even from the older kits." — Matt Harnick Get it from Amazon for $189.99 . 32. A wool garland so you can channel that Christmas cheer all season long. The white minimalistic design blends into most spaces and gives it a lovely understated look. This garland is made out of wool with a white finish, and it's 60 inches long! Get it from West Elm for $20 (originally $25). 33. A balsam and cedar candle to give your home that fresh Christmas tree smell before your tree is even set up (or make you feel better about opting for the faux pine). Notes of cedarwood, rosemary, pine, fir balsam, and more make this dreamy scent a quintessential holiday favorite. Promising review : "We purchased a Balsam Hill Christmas tree and needed the balsam scent to make the tree even better. When I looked on Amazon and read other reviews for your lovely candles, I knew I had to try one. We could not be more pleased with our purchase. Your candles are not only beautiful; the scent is perfect and a beautiful addition to our living room as well. The packaging is also above perfect and beautiful and the price was amazing considering the high quality. Thank you so much, and have a very merry Christmas!" — Shari Diehl Get it from Amazon for $26 (also available in five other scents). 34. A set of snowflake window decals you (and any kiddos) can have fun plastering all over your bare windows, appliances, and cabinet doors. They stick on using just water, and when you're ready to take them down, they peel off just as easily without leaving behind any residue. Promising review: "I LOVE THESE! They look great and you can barely see the cling outline! They stick easily and hold on well. If you're thinking about purchasing them, do it! They're so worth it!" — Amber Flavin Get a pack of 135 decals from Amazon for $6.99 . 35. Super absorbent Geometry kitchen towels that come in both holiday and winter designs so the seasonal vibes can extend to your kitchen. If you haven't owned a Geometry towel before, let me just tell you they're a game changer — they absorb nearly seven times their weight in liquid and dry fast (so they won't still be uncomfortably ~damp~ the next time you go to dry your hands), and the designs are absolutely stunning. Promising review : "I love these towels. They take towels to a new level. I am a bit picky when it comes to kitchen towels; they have to be absorbent and soft. These fit the bill over and above in that they are pretty and such a complement to any kitchen. I am a return customer and have also bought for birthdays and now Christmas. You will not be disappointed!" — Happy Get it from Amazon for $18 (available in 12 styles). 36. A grow-your-own-Christmas-tree kit you can set up now and watch grow over the years. You can even plant it outside once your seedling is at least 3 inches tall! 🎄 The kit comes with everything you need to get started, including soil and seeds. Nature Favors is a Texas-based small biz you should check out for sustainable gift options (stocking stuffers and otherwise)! They offer a variety of tiny grow kits not only for Christmas but also birthdays, weddings, and other occasions. Promising review : "My husband loved the sentiment behind this stocking stuffer! We plan to plant the seeds and hopefully measure growth near Christmas each year. We'd like to plant the tree outside in our future yard too!" — Toniann Keiling Get it from Nature Favors on Etsy for $12.95 . 37. A vintage-style laser-cut Christmas display to set out so everyone knows you're already counting down the days until Santa arrives. Set candles inside for a dreamy nighttime glow. EngravisLT is a small business on Etsy that specializes in decorations and gifts made from natural wood. Promising review : "This is so Christmasy! I can hardly wait to put it up in December. It is crafted very well. I was surprised the arrival time was so swift." — Judy-Gene McCoy Get it from EngravisLT on Etsy for $16.32+ (originally $20.39+; available with or without candles and in two sizes). Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Playoff hopes in the balance when the Broncos face the Bengals in CincyFacebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save Recent communications from the Benton County Democrat Party Chair Gabe Shepherd — a recently elected county commissioner — on the local party's webpage calling for "resistance" and "defense" against Donald Trump and presumably his supporters, are deeply concerning. Such rhetoric fosters unnecessary division and risks creating an atmosphere of fear and hostility within our community, particularly toward the one-third of Benton County residents who support Trump and align with his priorities and values. The Republicans, nonaffiliated, independents, Green Party, Libertarians, and Democrats in Benton County who voted for Trump are not extremists or threats. We hare law-abiding neighbors, friends, and coworkers — people who care about this community as much as anyone else. The Republican party has become the party of common sense, advocating for the working class, values that resonate deeply with many in Benton County. We stand for practical solutions, protecting freedoms and representing the needs of “all” hardworking Americans. Why resist that? People are also reading... Proposal for South Corvallis has a neighborhood on edge Oregon State celebrates Murphy's arrival while Washington State loses coach, quarterback Corvallis looks to drum up millions for facilities project Albany police say sex offender tried enrolling in high school Albany shelter faces federal lawsuit as whistleblower faces homelessness Victim identified in Linn County interstate fatality Oregon port contractor praises Hitler, uses slurs — and now officials face a quandary Details emerge about former South Albany coach accused of sex crimes Oregon State assistant football coach takes head job at Idaho Oregon State men head to the beaches of Hawaii looking to keep momentum going Corvallis School District's buses are vexing parents Albany man suspected of stealing flatbed trailer, crashing into minivan Oregon State lands a quarterback in the transfer portal Brownsville swears in new councilors, conservative sweep complete Reward upped for Corvallis crossbow deer killings Yet this language of “resistance” implies otherwise, suggesting that political disagreement makes us enemies. Trump is not here, and Democrats control every level of government in Oregon. So who, then, is Mr. Shepherd asking his followers to resist? Whom are they defending against? Are these calls aimed at members of our own community who simply hold different views? Such rhetoric unfairly maligns a large segment of our population, fueling their mistrust and fear of Mr. Shepherd’s followers. Let’s also consider what this messaging means for our broader political system. Trump won the popular vote with 74.2 million votes. To trivialize his priorities and policies as ramblings of a fascist is to call the majority of American voters fascists. Rejecting the will of the majority simply because the “right” party is not in power is not only dangerous but obscenely undemocratic. Calls for “resistance” to lawful governance undermine the values that bind us together as both a community and a nation. Mr. Shepherd is, quite literally, "shepherding" his followers to organize "mass protest marches," fueled by distrust of the elected national administration. How long before local Republicans become the target of his ire? Peaceful protest is an essential part of our democracy; however, language that frames fellow citizens and elected leaders as threats or enemies is not constructive. Additionally, Mr. Shepherd stated in a recent Corvallis City Council meeting that the government’s role is to decide what is “best” and then “find a way to pay for it” — regardless of public opinion or cost. I fundamentally disagree. I wonder if Mr. Shepherd would think the same if it were his money he was spending? The city intends to pay $200 million on infrastructure without considering where the money will come from. Inevitably this will force taxpayers to bare the load. This is not only irresponsible but is also disrespectful to our citizens who are already struggling financially. Does my empathy with those hurting mean I am an enemy to be defended against? Our government exists to function "by and for the people," a cornerstone principle of our nation and one that has been emphasized throughout Trump’s presidency. The people of Benton County — regardless of political affiliation — deserve leadership that promotes dialogue, understanding and cooperation, not conflict, division, or lack of representation. Shouldn’t we focus on solutions that unite us as neighbors rather than rhetoric that pits us against one another or instills unfounded fears of our neighbors? It’s time to focus on what truly matters — commonsense governance, working-class priorities and a shared commitment to building a stronger future for our community and our nation. Keith Lembke Keith Lembke has a doctorate in business administration, a master's in public administration and a bachelor's of science from West Point. A Corvallis resident since 2003, he ran unsuccessfully for Benton County commissioner in 2024 and now chairs the Benton County Republican Party. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.
Maverick McNealy birdies the last hole at Sea Island to finally become PGA Tour winner
1,712 Shares in The J. M. Smucker Company (NYSE:SJM) Purchased by Oppenheimer & Co. Inc.PARADISE ISLAND, Bahamas — Baylor began the Battle 4 Atlantis Tournament with a 101-55 win over Southern Miss on Saturday afternoon. The Bears had their best shooting performance of the season, finishing 57.4% from the floor while hitting 15 3-pointers, their most in a game since setting a program record with 17 last season. “Once we started to defend, we started to rebound, we turned them over a little bit,” Baylor head coach Nicki Collen said. “We started to get out in transition and got just about anything we wanted. We did a good job getting the ball downhill and then moving it to open shooters. And then, ultimately, stepped up and made a lot of 3’s today. “Really good, balanced team effort all the way around.” Five different Baylor players scored in double figures, led by junior Darianna Littlepage-Buggs, who finished with 19 points and seven rebounds. Southern Mississippi vs. #18 Baylor Game Highlights | 2024-25 Big 12 Women’s Basketball // via Big 12 Conference on YouTube Senior Jada Walker scored 19 points and dished out a team-high eight assists, while junior Bella Fontleroy had 15 points and senior Sarah Andrews added 14 points. Both hit four 3-pointers apiece. Senior guard Yaya Felder had her best game as a Bear, scoring 14 points and adding eight rebounds and eight assists. “I thought she brought some good energy, made her first shot,” Collen said. “They were in zone on most made baskets, and they were making most of their shots to start the game – we ran an action and Yaya came in the game and hit the first 3. And I thought that kind of relaxed us.” The Bears will play Indiana in the semifinals Sunday at 12:30 p.m. Baylor and Southern Miss battled back-and-forth for most of the first quarter until Felder hit a 3-pointer with under four minutes to play and the Bears ended the quarter on a 13-6 run to take a seven-point lead. The Bears held the Eagles to eight points in the second quarter and extended their lead to 26 points at the half. Baylor went on an 8-0 run early in the third quarter, and Walker and Waiata Jennings hit 3-pointers in the fourth quarter, and Southern Miss didn’t get closer than 37 points in the final period. Be the first to knowThe Miami Dolphins are giving Shaq Barrett an opportunity to further his NFL comeback attempt. Barrett, a former Pro Bowl linebacker, signed with the Dolphins during the offseason but announced in July that he was retiring to spend more time with his family . He changed his mind last month, when agent Drew Rosenhaus said Barrett applied for immediate reinstatement . The Dolphins did not activate Barrett from the reserve/retired list by the deadline that would have allowed him to play for them this season. However, they waived the 32-year-old on Thursday, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The Miami Dolphins are waiving former Pro-Bowl edge rusher Shaq Barrett from the Reserve Retired list today. Barrett can play again this season if he clears waivers Friday. If another team claims him, then Barrett would be ineligible to play the rest of this season. “We... pic.twitter.com/RxFEUsYzSd — Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 26, 2024 Rosenhaus said he is hopeful Barrett will pass through waivers, which would make the veteran a free agent. If another team were to claim Barrett, he would be ineligible to play for the remainder of the season. Barrett went undrafted in 2014, but that has not prevented him from having a lengthy career. He joined the Denver Broncos in 2014 and played in 61 games with them from 2015-18. Barrett signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2019 and enjoyed immediate success with his new team. He led the league with 19.5 sacks in 2019 and made his first Pro Bowl. He also made the Pro Bowl in 2021 when he had 51 tackles and 10 sacks for the Bucs. Barrett won Super Bowls in 2015 with Denver and 2020 with Tampa Bay. Barrett and his wife have had four children together, but their youngest child died in an accidental drowning last year . This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.
Qatar tribune Agencies Gold soared to all-time highs in 2024, hitting a record $2,790 per ounce in October, which is likely to continue next year, the experts said. The strong demand for the precious metal, one of the main safe-haven assets, is expected to continue next year, led by geopolitical risks, central bank purchases and the U.S. Federal Reserve’s rate cut cycle. Gold ended last year around $2,062 and was trading at $2,620 as of Wednesday, an increase of 27%, while the performance of these prices marked the best return on gold since 2010. Gold broke records 40 times annually as total gold demand exceeded $100 billion for the first time in the third quarter of 2024. Having risen to an all-time high in October, the ounce price ended the month at $2,743, up 4.15%. The ongoing wars in Ukraine and Palestine, as well as Israeli-Iranian tensions, caused an upward trend in gold demand. Political uncertainties before and after the U.S. presidential election in November also pushed gold prices upwards, while strong demand in Asia contributed to the price hikes. Geopolitical and political uncertainties and turmoil give rise to gold prices, experts say. A recent report by the World Gold Council said that demand for gold rose on risks and volatility. Ewa Manthey, commodities strategist at ING, told Anadolu Agency (AA) that the general bull market outlook and safe-haven feature of gold and central bank purchases will carry gold to even higher records in 2025. “The inflationary impact of (U.S. President-elect Donald) Trump’s policies could lead to fewer (interest) rate cuts than previously expected,” she noted. Manthey said that central banks continued to increase their gold reserves despite a slowdown in the third quarter. “It is now looking likely that the full-year total will fall short of that seen over the previous two years. Looking ahead into next year, we expect central banks to remain buyers due to geopolitical tensions and the economic climate,” she said. Manthey highlighted that she expects the positive momentum of gold to continue in the short and medium term. “The macro backdrop will likely remain favorable for the precious metal as interest rates decline and foreign-reserve diversification continues amid geopolitical tensions, creating a perfect storm for gold,” she said. She emphasized that Trump’s protectionist policies, tariffs and immigration control could create further inflationary pressure, limiting the Federal Reserve’s rate cuts, while a stronger dollar and tighter monetary policy could provide some resistance to gold, estimating an average price of $2,760 per ounce next year. Juan Carlos Artigas, global head of research at the World Gold Council, told AA that global geopolitical uncertainties could provide the environment for gold to rise further next year. “For gold, 2025 will be a tale of two halves. First, we may experience more risk-on appetite as we wait for strategic and tactical drivers to unravel, leading to more clarity and direction for gold’s performance later in the year,” he said. “This could really ring true if there is a significant drop in interest rates or a marked increase in market volatility to further fuel investor interest. We also expect global central bank demand and Asian markets to continue playing a pivotal role,” he added. Copy 27/12/2024 10
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EU Investigations in Apple e-Book Antitrust Case Closed After Complain is Withdrawn