casino games you can play at home Germany pledges security inquest into Christmas market attackSubscribe to our newsletter Privacy Policy Success! Your account was created and you’re signed in. Please visit My Account to verify and manage your account. An account was already registered with this email. Please check your inbox for an authentication link. Support Independent Arts Journalism As an independent publication, we rely on readers like you to fund our journalism. If you value our coverage and want to support more of it, consider becoming a member today . Already a member? Sign in here. We rely on readers like you to fund our journalism. If you value our coverage and want to support more of it, please join us as a member . Seattle Art Museum (SAM) security guards reached a tentative agreement with the institution yesterday, December 11, ending a 12-day strike that began on November 29. The SAM Visitor Service Officer (VSO) Union’s 59 security guards voted overwhelmingly to ratify their first union contract with the museum, securing a raise in base wages from $21.68 to $24.18 that will take effect starting next month. The union’s adoption of the new contract brings an end to over two years of stalled negotiations and a nearly two-week strike. “When there was no further movement that was going to happen in the bargaining room is when we had to take it to the streets,” Andi Berkbigler, a security guard for over five years, told Hyperallergic . The SAM VSO Union successfully restored pre-pandemic employer 403(b) retirement contributions, starting at 1% and rising to 3% after three years, the union said in a release. The museum furloughed several part-time visitor service workers in 2020, even though it received almost $5 million in Paycheck Protection Program loans . SAM applied the retirement contributions change to all staff, the union said. Get the latest art news, reviews and opinions from Hyperallergic. Daily Weekly Opportunities Before workers began organizing in 2021, the museum’s hourly wage for security workers was $17.69. When the gains take effect in January, wages will have increased 37% since the beginning of organizing. According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Living Wage Calculator , an adult with no children must earn $28.70 to support themselves in Seattle, and $49.50 for an adult with one child. “In recent weeks, after 27 months of contract delays by SAM, negotiations have reached a breaking point, and workers have had no choice but to take drastic measures.” Josh Davis, who has been a SAM security guard for 11 years, wrote in an opinion for Hyperallergic published on November 25. The union voted to strike in October, Berkbigler said, to push for increased wages, expanded healthcare benefits, seniority pay, and retirement matching. Berkbigler said the union has “since given up on” expanding health care benefits for now, but the new contract guarantees equivalent or better health benefits to employees even if the museum switches providers. SAM VSO Union raised more than $28,000 on GoFundMe to support its workers through the strike. The workers also reached a union-security agreement, making the bargaining unit a “union shop,” meaning that new security hires will have to automatically join the union and pay dues. This will “help the union survive” into its second contract negotiation and establish a concrete relationship with the museum, Berkbigler said. Scott Stulen, SAM’s Director and CEO, wrote in a statement shared with Hyperallergic, “This contract addresses the unique working conditions of VSOs and the important services they provide while maintaining our commitment to equity across the staff.” While the union officially started bargaining with the museum in 2022, SAM’s security officers first organized in solidarity with the neighboring unhoused community. In 2021, after the museum planned to install bollards to deter unhoused people from entering the museum campus, SAM VSO Union’s predecessor organization SAM Workers Collective formed to prevent their implementation. They feared the structures, which the union characterized as “ hostile architecture ,” could promote violence against unhoused individuals living outside the museum. The group gathered 600 petition signatures to prevent the museum’s execution of the facade plan, but it failed to deter the bollards. That same year, management contracted a third-party security firm to patrol the exterior of the museum, according to the union. SAM has not yet replied to Hyperallergic’s request for comment about an alleged incident of misconduct occurring between a contract security guard and an unhoused woman. “What we first organized around was the museum’s unilateral decision to implement hostile architecture,” Berkbigler said. The museum’s security officers, though, have stood in opposition to “violent policing.” This first contract, Berkbigler said, falls short of a liveable wage and left out seniority pay, but it marks a gain in the union’s status at the museum. “It’s a mix of emotions,” Berkbigler said. “I was a little stunned that anything could happen after all this time.” We hope you enjoyed this article! Before you keep reading, please consider supporting Hyperallergic ’s journalism during a time when independent, critical reporting is increasingly scarce. Unlike many in the art world, we are not beholden to large corporations or billionaires. Our journalism is funded by readers like you , ensuring integrity and independence in our coverage. We strive to offer trustworthy perspectives on everything from art history to contemporary art. We spotlight artist-led social movements, uncover overlooked stories, and challenge established norms to make art more inclusive and accessible. With your support, we can continue to provide global coverage without the elitism often found in art journalism. If you can, please join us as a member today . Millions rely on Hyperallergic for free, reliable information. By becoming a member, you help keep our journalism free, independent, and accessible to all. Thank you for reading.AUSTIN, Texas -- Any Texas or Texas A & M player has heard the lore of the rivalry between the two schools, a grudge match that dates to 1894. But for more than a decade — two generations of college football players — that's all it has been: Ghostly memories of great games and great plays made by heroes of the distant past. That changes this week when one of college football's great rivalries is reborn. Third-ranked Texas (10-1, 6-1) and No. 20 Texas A & M (8-3, 5-2) meet Saturday night for the first time since 2011, with a berth in the Southeastern Conference championship game on the line . “Guys that have been in my position and bleed burnt orange, they have not gotten to play this game,” said Texas fourth-year junior safety Michael Taaffe, who grew up in Austin. “Remember them when you step on Kyle Field.” For Aggies fans, who have carried the misery of Texas' 27-25 win in 2011, getting the Longhorns back in front of a frenzied crowd in College Station is a chance for some serious payback. “I was born and raised an Aggie, so I’ve been dreaming about playing in this game my whole life,” Texas A & M offensive lineman Trey Zuhn III said. Zuhn played high school football in Colorado, but his parents and grandparents attended A & M. At SEC media days back in August, Zuhn said his family would turn Texas gear upside down in stores. He keeps a picture of a longhorn in his room, hanging upside down, of course. “It should be the most amazing atmosphere that I’ve ever experienced,” Zuhn said. "I can’t wait for that, and I feel bad for Texas having to play in that." Texas players said they are ready. “That place is going to be rocking,” Texas senior cornerback Jahdae Barron said. “It's good to go on the road and play in hostile environments.” The Longhorns have overcome big and loud road crowds before. They won at Alabama in 2023. They won at Michigan and Arkansas, another old rival, this year. The Longhorns have won 10 in a row on an opponent’s home field. “When the hate is on us, we love it. We enjoy it,” Taaffe said. But some former Texas players say the current group has faced nothing like what awaits them in College Station. Playing at Texas A & M is more than just noise and a lot of “Horns down” hand signals. The “Aggie War Hymn” fight song calls for Aggies to “Saw varsity’s horns off." Beating Texas is their passion, said former Longhorns All-American offensive lineman Dan Neil, who won at Texas A & M in in 1995. He calls that win one of the best of his career. “I was done showering and getting ready to leave, and their fans were still standing outside the locker room screaming and throwing things,” he said. “The (Texas) players have no idea what they are walking into. They have no clue. No one on that team has walked into that stadium in burnt orange.” The rivalry broke up when Texas A & M left the Big 12 for the SEC in 2012. The Aggies have twice finished tied for second but have otherwise found little success there. Texas is in its first year in the SEC and has smashed its way to the top. Texas is the only SEC team with one loss this late in the season, which would make beating Texas that much sweeter for A & M. “The hype is definitely saying it's a rivalry. History says it's a rivalry, but for us, it's the football game we have this week,” Texas senior center Jake Majors said. “It's important for us to not let the environment, the game, get the best of us. ... I get to go out there and play not only for me and my team, but for the guys who came before me, so that's a true honor to have.” Even though the game hasn't been played since 2011, there has always been an element of the rivalry simmering under the surface, Texas A & M coach Mike Elko said. Elko is in his first year as the Aggies' coach, but he was the Texas A & M defensive coordinator under Jimbo Fisher from 2018-2021. “Even though it hasn’t been played, it just doesn’t feel like it’s ever really left the fabric. I really don’t think it’s as removed from the psyche as maybe it feels,” Elko said. “I think our kids are very much aware of what this is all about.” ___ Rieken reported from College Station, Texas. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football

New Jersey Estate Planning Attorney Christine Matus Releases Insightful Article on ABLE Accounts 12-12-2024 09:54 PM CET | Politics, Law & Society Press release from: ABNewswire New Jersey estate planning attorney Christine Matus ( https://matuslaw.com/what-are-able-accounts-in-new-jersey/ ) of The Matus Law Group sheds light on the value of ABLE accounts, a crucial financial tool designed to empower individuals with disabilities and their families. Christine Matus emphasizes the pivotal role these accounts play in safeguarding eligibility for essential government benefits while promoting financial independence. ABLE accounts, established under the Stephen Beck, Jr. Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act of 2014, have transformed financial planning for special needs individuals. Christine Matus explains that these accounts allow individuals diagnosed with disabilities before age 26 to save money for various expenses without jeopardizing benefits such as SSI or Medicaid. "These accounts are a lifeline for families," the New Jersey estate planning attorney notes. "They allow for essential financial stability while maintaining access to critical government programs." For those handling the complex matter of special needs planning, engaging a New Jersey estate planning attorney can be invaluable. Christine Matus highlights that funds deposited in ABLE accounts are not considered when determining eligibility for public assistance. This means families can maintain their loved ones' health and independence without sacrificing vital support systems. ABLE accounts provide a unique advantage: the income earned within these accounts is tax-deferred, offering a financial incentive for long-term savings. "This feature can significantly alleviate the financial strain on families while supporting the quality of life for individuals with special needs," adds Matus. Opening an ABLE account in New Jersey is straightforward but requires careful adherence to eligibility criteria. The individual must have been diagnosed with a disability before their 26th birthday and meet specific functional or government disability standards. "For families unsure of how to proceed, consulting with an estate planning attorney can clarify the requirements and streamline the process," says Matus. Christine Matus outlines the steps for setting up an ABLE account. Eligible individuals, or their authorized representatives, need to complete an enrollment form, which can be submitted online or via mail. Additional documentation, such as a doctor's diagnosis or Social Security verification, may be required to confirm eligibility. An initial contribution of at least $25 is necessary to open the account. Expenses covered by ABLE accounts must align with the definition of qualified disability expenses as outlined by the Social Security Administration. These include housing, health care, education, transportation, and personal support services. "Families should be mindful of the rules," warns Matus, "since non-qualified expenses can result in tax penalties and impact eligibility for benefits." While the benefits of ABLE accounts are substantial, there are limitations. Contributions are capped annually, and the total account value can affect benefits if it exceeds certain thresholds. Additionally, upon the account holder's death, remaining funds may be used to reimburse the state for Medicaid payments unless transferred to another family member with a disability. Christine Matus underscores the importance of working with a knowledgeable estate planning attorney to manage these nuances. "ABLE accounts are a powerful tool, but understanding their intricate aspects is essential for maximizing their benefits," Matus advises. ABLE accounts represent a significant step forward for families striving to balance financial security with the ongoing needs of individuals with disabilities. At The Matus Law Group, Christine Matus continues to provide guidance to families seeking to utilize ABLE accounts as part of their broader estate planning efforts. Families considering opening an ABLE account should consult with an experienced attorney to help ensure they meet eligibility requirements and make informed decisions. Christine Matus and The Matus Law Group can offer comprehensive support to families handling this process. About The Matus Law Group: The Matus Law Group is a dedicated law firm based in New Jersey, well-versed in estate planning and legal solutions tailored to the needs of individuals and families. Led by Christine Matus, the firm is committed to empowering clients with knowledge and tools to protect their financial futures, including those supporting loved ones with special needs. Embeds: Youtube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j50bJGQgSGU GMB: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=6876392708092026946 Email and website Email: admin@matuslaw.com Website: https://matuslaw.com/ Media Contact Company Name: Matus Law Group Contact Person: Christine Matus Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=new-jersey-estate-planning-attorney-christine-matus-releases-insightful-article-on-able-accounts ] Phone: (732) 281-0060 Address:81 E Water St #2C City: Toms River State: New Jersey 08753 Country: United States Website: https://matuslaw.com/ This release was published on openPR.After marijuana measure’s failure, Florida’s hemp shops stand to benefit

AUSTIN, Texas -- Any Texas or Texas A & M player has heard the lore of the rivalry between the two schools, a grudge match that dates to 1894. But for more than a decade — two generations of college football players — that's all it has been: Ghostly memories of great games and great plays made by heroes of the distant past. That changes this week when one of college football's great rivalries is reborn. Third-ranked Texas (10-1, 6-1) and No. 20 Texas A & M (8-3, 5-2) meet Saturday night for the first time since 2011, with a berth in the Southeastern Conference championship game on the line . “Guys that have been in my position and bleed burnt orange, they have not gotten to play this game,” said Texas fourth-year junior safety Michael Taaffe, who grew up in Austin. “Remember them when you step on Kyle Field.” For Aggies fans, who have carried the misery of Texas' 27-25 win in 2011, getting the Longhorns back in front of a frenzied crowd in College Station is a chance for some serious payback. “I was born and raised an Aggie, so I’ve been dreaming about playing in this game my whole life,” Texas A & M offensive lineman Trey Zuhn III said. Zuhn played high school football in Colorado, but his parents and grandparents attended A & M. At SEC media days back in August, Zuhn said his family would turn Texas gear upside down in stores. He keeps a picture of a longhorn in his room, hanging upside down, of course. “It should be the most amazing atmosphere that I’ve ever experienced,” Zuhn said. "I can’t wait for that, and I feel bad for Texas having to play in that." Texas players said they are ready. “That place is going to be rocking,” Texas senior cornerback Jahdae Barron said. “It's good to go on the road and play in hostile environments.” The Longhorns have overcome big and loud road crowds before. They won at Alabama in 2023. They won at Michigan and Arkansas, another old rival, this year. The Longhorns have won 10 in a row on an opponent’s home field. “When the hate is on us, we love it. We enjoy it,” Taaffe said. But some former Texas players say the current group has faced nothing like what awaits them in College Station. Playing at Texas A & M is more than just noise and a lot of “Horns down” hand signals. The “Aggie War Hymn” fight song calls for Aggies to “Saw varsity’s horns off." Beating Texas is their passion, said former Longhorns All-American offensive lineman Dan Neil, who won at Texas A & M in in 1995. He calls that win one of the best of his career. “I was done showering and getting ready to leave, and their fans were still standing outside the locker room screaming and throwing things,” he said. “The (Texas) players have no idea what they are walking into. They have no clue. No one on that team has walked into that stadium in burnt orange.” The rivalry broke up when Texas A & M left the Big 12 for the SEC in 2012. The Aggies have twice finished tied for second but have otherwise found little success there. Texas is in its first year in the SEC and has smashed its way to the top. Texas is the only SEC team with one loss this late in the season, which would make beating Texas that much sweeter for A & M. “The hype is definitely saying it's a rivalry. History says it's a rivalry, but for us, it's the football game we have this week,” Texas senior center Jake Majors said. “It's important for us to not let the environment, the game, get the best of us. ... I get to go out there and play not only for me and my team, but for the guys who came before me, so that's a true honor to have.” Even though the game hasn't been played since 2011, there has always been an element of the rivalry simmering under the surface, Texas A & M coach Mike Elko said. Elko is in his first year as the Aggies' coach, but he was the Texas A & M defensive coordinator under Jimbo Fisher from 2018-2021. “Even though it hasn’t been played, it just doesn’t feel like it’s ever really left the fabric. I really don’t think it’s as removed from the psyche as maybe it feels,” Elko said. “I think our kids are very much aware of what this is all about.” ___ Rieken reported from College Station, Texas. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football

Tyler Perry has been 'taking care' of abused Turpin children, Oprah Winfrey says: ReportCity slumped to their seventh defeat in 10 games in all competitions as they were beaten 2-0 at Juventus in their latest European outing on Wednesday. Second-half goals from Dusan Vlahovic and Weston McKennie at the Allianz Stadium left Guardiola’s side languishing in 22nd place in the standings. Juventus beat Man City 💪 #UCL pic.twitter.com/H4KL15iCke — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) December 11, 2024 With just two games of the league phase remaining, a place in the top eight and automatic last-16 qualification looks beyond them and they face a battle just to stay in the top 24 and claim a play-off spot. City manager Guardiola said: “Of course I question myself but I’m stable in good moments and bad moments. “I try to find a way to do it. I’m incredibly honest. If we play good (I say) we played good and today I thought we played good. “Our game will save us. We can do it. We conceded few chances compared to the Nottingham Forest game that we won. We’re making the right tempo. “We missed the last pass, did not arrive in the six-yard box (at the right time) or have the composure at the right moment. “But I love my team. This is life, it happens. Sometimes you have a bad period but I’m going to insist until we’re there.” City now face a crunch trip to Paris St Germain, who are also at risk of failing to qualify, next month. Guardiola accepts the top 24 is now the only aim. He said: “It’s the target. We need one point or three points. We go to Paris to try to do it and the last game at home.” Veteran midfielder Ilkay Gundogan said after the game he felt City were suffering from a loss of confidence but Guardiola dismissed his player’s comments. “I am not agreeing with Ilkay,” he said. “Of course it is tough but, except one or two games in this period, we’ve played good.” City now face a further test of their resolve as they host rivals Manchester United in a derby on Sunday. "We played well" Pep Guardiola trusts in his squad despite 2-0 loss to Juventus... 📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/VrmTzcTrEF — Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) December 11, 2024 Gundogan told TNT Sports: “It (confidence) is a big part of it. That’s a mental issue as well. “You can see that sometimes we miss the ball or lose a duel and you see that we drop immediately and lose the rhythm. They (the opponents) don’t even need to do much but it has such a big effect on us right now. “Even more you have to do the simple things as good as possible and create and fluidity, then it’s work hard again. This is how you get confidence back – do the small and simple things, (but) in crucial moments at the moment we are always doing the wrong things.” Juventus coach Thiago Motta was pleased with the hosts’ performance, which boosted their hopes of making the top eight. “It was a deserved victory,” he said. “We had to defend as a team and be ready to attack with quality. “We have shown we can compete at this level and now we have to do it consistently.”Arizona AG sues Saudi firm over 'excessive' groundwater pumping, saying it's a public nuisance

Democrats Fret Over Defense Bill’s Provision Banning Sex Changes for MinorsMiami (6-7) at Houston (8-5) Sunday, 1 p.m. EST, CBS BetMGM Odds: Texans by 3. Against the spread: Dolphins 5-8; Texans 5-6-2. Series record: Texans lead 8-3. Last meeting: Dolphins beat Texans 30-15, on Nov. 27, 2022, in Miami. Last week: Dolphins beat Jets 32-26 in OT; Texans were off, beat Jaguars 23-20 on Dec. 1. Dolphins offense: overall (19), rush (24), pass (14), scoring (23). Dolphins defense: overall (9), rush (7), pass (11), scoring (T14). Texans offense: overall (18), rush (16), pass (17), scoring (11). Texans defense: overall (5), rush (10), pass (7), scoring (T12). Turnover differential: Dolphins minus-2; Texans plus-10. QB Tua Tagovailoa, who has been one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL at throwing with anticipation and accuracy since he returned from a concussion in Week 8. Tagovailoa leads the NFL with a 73.8% completion rate and threw for 300 yards for the third straight game last week vs. the Jets. Tagovailoa is the first player in NFL history to have at least 40 pass attempts, multiple touchdown passes and no interceptions in three consecutive games within a single season. QB C.J. Stroud has thrown for at least 225 yards in each of his six home games this season and is 11-4 in 15 starts in Houston, including the playoffs. He has thrown for 3,117 yards with 15 touchdowns and nine interceptions this season. Houston RB Joe Mixon vs. Miami’s run defense. Mixon ran for 101 yards in Houston’s previous game for his seventh 100-yard game this season. He ranks third in the NFL by averaging 88.7 yards rushing a game. This week he’ll face a run defense that ranks seventh in the NFL by holding teams to 105.6 yards a game. Miami LT Terron Armstead is dealing with a knee injury that limited him to just five snaps last week. He did not practice Wednesday... LBs Bradley Chubb (knee) and Cameron Goode (knee) could make their season debut, depending on how this week of practice goes, coach Mike McDaniel said. ... WRs Tyreek Hill (wrist) and Jaylen Waddle (hamstring), RB Raheem Mostert (hip), and LB Anthony Walker Jr. (hamstring) were among those limited in practice Wednesday. ... Houston S Jalen Pitre is expected to miss a second straight game with a shoulder injury. ... DE Denico Autry was limited in practice Wednesday because of a knee injury. Houston won the first seven meetings in this series. ... Miami didn’t get its first win against the Texans until a 44-26 victory in 2015. ... The Dolphins have won the past two meetings. ... These teams first met in the season opener in 2003 when Houston got a 21-20 win on a late field goal. Three of Miami’s final four games of the season are on the road. ... K Jason Sanders needs 13 points Sunday to reach 800. He also needs one field goal to reach 177, which would give him the second-most field goals made in franchise history. ... TE Jonnu Smith needs 100 yards receiving to reach 792 and set a franchise record for most yards receiving by a tight end in a single season. Smith had three catches for 44 yards, including the game-winning TD vs. the Jets last week after having no receptions during regulation. ... Tagovailoa needs a completion rate of 70% or better on Sunday to reach eight consecutive games completing at least 70% of his passes. That would tie him with Joe Montana (1989) and Drew Brees (2017-18) for the longest streak in NFL history. ... The Dolphins gave up a season-high 402 yards to the Jets last week. Aaron Rodgers burned Miami’s pass defense for 319 yards, and Miami’s secondary allowed a combined 223 yards by Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams. ... Houston can clinch the AFC South title for the second straight year with a win and a loss by Indianapolis Sunday. ... The Texans rank second in the NFL with 84 tackles for loss. ... Their 42 sacks also rank second. ... WR Nico Collins had eight receptions for 119 yards for his fourth 100-yard game this season in Houston’s previous game. He has had at least 75 yards receiving and a TD reception in each of his four home games this season. ... TE Dalton Schultz had five receptions for 61 yards and a score in Week 13. He has had at least five catches in two of his past three games. ... LB Azeez Al-Shaai will serve the first game of a three-game suspension for an illegal hit to the head of QB Trevor Lawrence Sunday. ... DE Danielle Hunter is one of two players in the NFL this season with at least 15 tackles for loss (15) and 10 sacks (10 1/2). It’s his sixth career season with at least 10 sacks. He has eight tackles for loss and five sacks combined in his past three games. ... DE Will Anderson has had a sack in his past two home games. ... LB Henry To’oTo’o has had at least five tackles in four straight games. ... CB Derek Stingley had his third interception of the season in his previous game. ... CB Kamari Lassiter had a career-high eight tackles, including a tackle for loss in Week 13. ... S Jimmie Ward has had an interception in his past two home games. He also had an interception in his previous game against Miami in 2022 while with San Francisco. Collins has 456 yards receiving and four touchdown receptions in four home games this season. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

Woman left penniless as $1,800 Social Security benefits are repeatedly withheld sparking warning about pay methodBy Jessica Cogswell on December 10, 2024 at 1:50PM PST GameSpot may receive revenue from affiliate and advertising partnerships for sharing this content and from purchases through links. In addition to recognizing some of the greatest games of the past year, The Game Awards is also a celebration of all the fantastic games to come. Each December, we are treated to plenty of jam-packed showcases filled with reveals, updates, and even a few surprise releases. One such showcase is Wholesome Snack, which offers a bite-sized look at some of the coziest titles currently in production. This year, Wholesome Games brought 24 games front and center, with genres ranging from fantasy RPGs and adventure puzzlers to life sims and match-three games. Below is everything shown at this year's Wholesome Snack showcase, as well as links to their respective Steam pages and a bit more about what adventures they hold. This adorable exploration game sees you play as a mama duck in charge of guiding her ducklings from the moment they hatch up until their first flight. With a cheery soundtrack, lush environments, plenty of cute interactions, and low stakes, the only thing developer Shaky Shrub Games says you need to worry about is "cuteness overload." Release date: TBD Aikyam combines Bollywood, turn-based combat, and highly saturated art to create a unique fantasy RPG in which dance can save the world. Join Vishva, Ramli, and Guru-ji as they protect their ancient Indian village from an influx of demons through compassion and dazzling dance moves. Release date: TBD Capy Castaway is a whimsical adventure game in which you play as a capybara and their crotchety crow companion. Each member of this duo possesses unique skills, with the capybara able to push, sniff, and dig while the crow can fly and pick up items. Together they must navigate puzzles in order to find their way back home. Release date: TBD Set in Quito, Ecuador, Despelote follows eight-year-old Julián as he navigates life and his favorite hobby: soccer. Billed as a "soccer game about people," Despelote offers players a look at life in Quito as Ecuador comes closer than ever to winning the World Cup. Release date: 2025 The next entry in the Duck Detective series, Duck Detective: The Ghost of Glamping follows our fowl friend as he investigates a lavish campground alongside a new companion he doesn't quite get along with. Marketed as a comical version of deduction puzzlers such as The Return of the Obra Dinn, this title looks perfect for anyone looking for a low-stakes mystery game. Release date: 2025 Little Rocket Lab offers a different spin on your traditional farming sim as protagonist Morgan returns to her hometown not to farm, but to finish building the rocket her mother always dreamed of creating. When not flexing your engineering skills, you'll get the chance to build relationships with the town's inhabitants, unlock new components for your lab, and help save the town of St. Ambrose. Release date: TBD Another original take on the life sim genre, Locomoto sees you play as an adorable, animal-like train conductor. You'll get the chance to customize your very own engine, tend to passengers, and "embark on a journey through beautiful landscapes," all while listening to some soft, lofi beats. Release date: TBD After raising nearly $1.3 million on Kickstarter , production on the highly anticipated solarpunk farming sim/MMO Loftia is well on its way. The team at Qloud Games offered another look at the game during Wholesome Snack, focusing on the new Neighborhoods feature, which "allows players to attach their personal floating islands to others, forming a small community of islands anchored around a central, communal space." Release date: TBD Tiny Roar's Lou's Lagoon is as an adventure game that tasks you with solving the mysterious disappearance of your Uncle Lou. Fortunately, he left you with complete control of his seaplane delivery service, allowing you to not only search the Limbo Archipelago for his whereabouts, but harvest resources, take on jobs, and grow your own business while you do it. Release date: TBD Billed as a colorful, minimalist adventure game, Naiad allows players to float dreamily through rivers, interact with flora and fauna, and simply vibe out as they take in all of nature's wonders. When you're not helping ducklings swim and plants bloom, it will also be up to you to ensure that reckless humans don't pollute the river, adding an eco-friendly message to a relaxing experience. Release date: Out now In Piece by Piece , you play as an adorable fox in charge of their own repair shop. You'll play a vital role in your community as the town's primary fixer-upper, as you fix, build, and paint "all sorts of curious items from a model cat all the way to binoculars." When not in your workshop, you'll get the chance to grow plants to create dyes and play a few rounds of Bear, Fish, Bee. Release date: TBD In Pinbleton Park , everything you see is part of a giant pinball table, making for a unique take on a cozy adventure game. You'll be tasked with helping villagers, rescuing lost spirits, and taking down an evil corporation bent on destroying the town, using pinball mechanics to accomplish all these feats. Release date: TBD In the mood for a good cry? It certainly seems like Pine: A Story of Loss has you covered. Pine follows a woodcutter as he struggles to accept his wife's passing, which has rendered him unable to care for both himself and his now-empty home. Through puzzles and minigames, you'll get the chance to help the woodworker sort through his cherished memories and eventually embrace the next part of his life. Release date: December 13, 2024 Part-city builder and part-puzzle game, River Towns tasks you with placing differently shaped and colored districts alongside a river until you're able to connect the streams and restore the area. Depending upon how you arrange your town, you'll earn points which you can then compare with your friends, adding some replayability and competitive fun to the single-player game. Release date: 2025 With nearly 10,000 reviews and an 'overwhelming positive' score on Steam, Rusty's Retirement is already a well-loved entry in both the idle and farming sim genres. During December's Wholesome Snack, developer Mister Morris Games' revealed a free new Winter expansion was now available for download. The update adds a new winter map, a plethora of new animals (such as cats, dogs, and deer), new characters, and Christmas decorations. Release date: Out now From the award-winning developers of Journey, Sky: Children of the Light is an MMO adventure game filled with puzzles and gorgeous visuals. With a mission of helping people restore "their child-like sense of wonder," Sky is an open-world social game in which you can band with others to fend of the darkness--as well as throw parties and attend concerts. During December's Wholesome Snack showcase, the team announced Alice's Wonderland Cafe is coming to the game on December 23, adding cute new characters and a tea party setting. Release date: Currently in early access Snufkin: Melody of Moomin Valley is a musical adventure game filled with puzzles, whimsical characters, and most importantly, Moomins. Based on the work of illustrator Tove Jansson, this visually rich title sees you play as Snufkin, a druid-like character who vows to keep the destructive Park Keeper and his sinister plans away from Moomin Valley. During December's Wholesome Snack, a new DLC for Snufkin was announced. Set during late summer, it sees the Moomins embark on a final camping trip before they enter hibernation. Release date: Out now Soft Not Weak's Spirit Swap combines compelling match-3 style gameplay with vibrant colors, lofi music, witchcraft, and unapologetic queerness to create an entirely original experience that we can't wait to play. The puzzler follows protagonist Samar as they attempt to crash the biggest concert of the year--and perhaps smooch a few characters while they do. In addition to all this, the game also supports local co-op, allowing you to face-off against your friends in match-3 battles. Release date: February 3, 2025 A colorful, sci-fi take on base-building and resource management games, Star Birds tasks you with helping your population of spacefaring bird survive by scanning and building upon nearby asteroids. 360-degree construction adds a fun twist to traditional base-building, allowing you to spin and tilt your territory as you pioneer the stars. When not upgrading your buildings, you'll also be tasked with taking on missions and solving mysteries that will ultimately unlock new technology and help your avian allies. Release date: 2025 Rather than see you simply drop off your crops and gathered resources in a shipping bin like oh so many farming sims do, Sugardew Island tasks you with actually selling the items yourself via your own shop. By growing crops, tending to animals, and gathering resources, you'll see the island slowly fill with life. During December's Wholesome Snack, we got a look at the game's romance options, making us even more excited for its release early next year. Release date: March 2025 Set on an island haven in which yokai--or Japanese spirits--roam about, T ales of Seikyu follows you and your sister as you move into an abandoned farm house to start a new life. As you discover more about your ancestry and Fox Clan heritage, you'll unlock the ability to shift into different creatures that will allow you to protect your homeland. When not off turning into a giant boar, you'll also get the chance to farm, grow your ranch, cook, partake in festivals, and find a soulmate. Release date: 2025 The follow-up to 2021 indie darling Toem: A Photo Adventure, Toem 2 shakes up the original's top-down style gameplay by switching to a first-person view. The game's core concept, however, remains the same, and sees you traverse a whimsical, black-and-white world taking photographs and solving puzzles. As you do, you'll unravel mysteries, meet wacky characters, and learn to stop and appreciate life's little wonders. Release date: TBD Of all the cozy games on this list, Winter Burrow could very well be coziest--just look at the lil' mouse! The woodland survival game follows a mouse who moves back to their homeland after growing tired of the big city. Upon coming home, however, the mouse finds their old burrow in ruins and their aunt missing. It is then up to you to help them gather resources, knit sweaters, cook pies, and slowly build both their home and community back up. Sure, you have to fight off bugs, but I truly can't get over how cute the rest of that sounds. Release date: TBD The follow-up to the charming farming-sim Wylde Flowers, Wylde Society is a prequel that tells the story of former protagonist's Tara's great-great aunt Vivian. Whereas Wylde Flowers saw you manage a homestead, Studio Drydock's newest title focuses on socialization, as Vivian must navigate being a witch, a socialite, and the owner of a boarding house. With Bridgerton vibes, seances, magic creatures, and romance, Wylde Society already seems bewitching. Release date: TBD Upvote Leave Blank

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Children in mental health hospitals sent to holiday caravans and hostels on their 18th birthdayLuigi Mangione, who is accused of shooting and killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, fought extradition to New York during a hearing in a Pennsylvania court on Dec. 10. During the hearing, Mangione was denied bail—something he has 14 days to challenge—while prosecutors raised concerns about him being a flight risk. Mangione’s attorney, Thomas Dickey, said his client wanted a hearing on extradition and on whether a second-degree murder charge from New York might be eligible for bail. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office said that it would seek a governor’s warrant to secure Mangione’s extradition. A felony warrant from New York cited Altoona police stating that written admissions to the crime were found in Mangione’s belongings. A law enforcement bulletin obtained by The Associated Press said that Mangione was likely motivated by anger toward health insurance companies. A Pennsylvania police complaint alleged that Mangione committed forgery, carried a firearm without a license, tampered with records or identification, possessed instruments of crime, and falsely identified himself to law enforcement. The law enforcement bulletin said that Mangione described Ted Kaczynski, the “Unabomber,” as a political revolutionary and that Mangione’s targeting of Thompson appeared to be symbolic. It also said Mangione described health care companies as parasitic and wrote about how profits increased while life expectancy didn’t. Mangione’s cousin, Maryland House of Delegates member Nino Mangione, posted a family statement on social media on Dec. 9. “Unfortunately, we cannot comment on news reports regarding Luigi Mangione,” the statement read. “We only know what we have read in the media. Our family is shocked and devastated by Luigi’s arrest. We offer our prayers to the family of Brian Thompson and we ask people to pray for all involved.”

Trump's tariff plans may 'derail' US inflation progress: Yellen

WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. (AP) — Jaland Lowe scored 19 of his career-high 22 points in the second half and collected eight rebounds and six assists in leading Pittsburgh to a 74-63 win over LSU at the Greenbrier Tip-Off on Friday. Pitt (6-0) will play the Wisconsin-UCF winner on Sunday for the tournament title. The Tigers (4-1) will take on the loser. This is Pitt's best start since 2018-19. Lowe made four 3-pointers while Ishmael Leggett added 21 points, six rebounds and five steals. Cameron Corhen scored 14 points and Zack Austin 10. The Panthers shot 64% in the second half after a 31% showing in the first. Jalen Reed had 14 points and seven rebounds, Vyctorius Miller came off the bench to score 14 points and Cam Carter added 11 for the Tigers, who shot 37%. LSU, which had trailed by as many as 12 in the second half, got within four on a four-point play by Miller with six minutes left but Lowe scored eight points, found Corhen for a pair of dunks and Leggett added seven points to help the Panthers pull away. Pitt stumbled at the end of the first half in surrendering the lead but came out in the second hot, hitting its first five shots and scoring the first 13 points. The Tigers missed their first 12 shots before finally getting a bucket and their first points from Carter nearly seven minutes into the second half. LSU had its only lead after Lowe was called for a technical foul with 4.9 seconds remaining in the first half and Carter hit a free throw to finish an 8-2 run to send the Tigers into the break ahead 28-27. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketballBoeing (BA) Shares Skyrocket, What You Need To KnowUnion Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy on Sunday promised that he would pursue the demand for establishing an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) either in Mandya or Mysuru region, with the Centre. “Former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda fought for bringing the IIT to Hassan. Finally, the IIT was granted to the State and was set up in Dharwad. The demand for another IIT in the State will be taken up with the Centre,” the Union Minister said, while responding to a memorandum he received from Dinesh Gooli Gowda, MLC, for setting up an IIT near Krishnaraja Sagar in the district or in Mysuru region, at the valedictory function of the 87th Akhila Bharata Kannada Sahitya Sammelana here. “After fighting for over 15 years, the State was granted the IIT. I am with the people on the demand for another IIT,” he said. Mr. Kumaraswamy pointed out that he was also making serious efforts to bring industries to Mandya, Tumakuru, and the North Karnataka districts to generate employment for the local youth. If the State government cooperated with his Ministry, efforts would be made to establish industries in the region and provide jobs to the youth, who are facing unemployment, he said. Sammelana in Delhi He said the Kannada Sahitya Parishat can consider holding a Kannada Sahitya Sammelana in New Delhi. “Before KSP president Mahesh Joshi demits office, the sammelana can be organised in Delhi,” Mr. Kumaraswamy felt. The Union Minister said he was making sincere efforts to revive Visvesvaraya Iron and Steel Ltd. (VISL) and the watch manufacturing company Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) after he took over the Ministry in the Narendra Modi Cabinet. A sum of ₹15,000 crore was essential for reviving VISL and HMT. The process of their revival was under way, he added. Published - December 22, 2024 08:39 pm IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit