It’s a safe bet Gov. Kevin Stitt and Attorney General Gentner Drummond didn’t exchange Christmas gifts. The enmity between two of state elected leadership’s top dawgs is palpable – vividly illustrated by Drummond’s decision to skip December’s state Board of Equalization meeting and instead release a statement scorning Stitt’s fiscal ciphering. “I come from the private sector,” the AG said, “where you don’t play games with your budget. After sitting through several of these meetings, as well as briefings from the governor’s chosen staff, I can tell you that I have no confidence in the accuracy or completeness of the governor’s budget numbers.” Ouch! Makes Ronald Reagan’s 11 th Commandment – Thou shalt not speak ill of another Republican – seem almost quaint, doesn’t it? The broadside was hardly a political thunderbolt, of course. Storm clouds began churning soon after Drummond took office in 2023, in no small part because Stitt seems to think the attorney general works for him. A Civics 101 refresher: The AG is a constitutional officer. Independent. Duly elected. Not a hack appointee at the beck-and-call of the governor. This clearly is difficult for Stitt to swallow. During his first term, he repeatedly clashed with then-Attorney General Mike Hunter, who favored the law over the governor’s predilections. When Hunter resigned amid personal scandal, Stitt exercised his authority to appoint an obsequious replacement – John O’Connor. O’Connor’s reign didn’t last long. Voters rejected his bid for a full, four-year term, embracing Drummond instead; independence over servility. What followed was two tempestuous years in which Stitt attempted to impose his will – regardless of the law – and Drummond resisted. Think: the governor’s support for creating the nation’s first taxpayer funded private school, St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual Charter School, which Drummond opposed in court because it clearly violates the state Constitution’s ban on spending public dollars for sectarian purposes. The Stitt-Drummond skirmishing is delicious political theater, to be sure. But for taxpayers, the AG’s Molotov aimed at the governor’s FY’26 budget figures is gravely important. How so? Because Oklahoma’s deepest pockets believe their fondest dream, eliminating the state income tax, is within reach with Stitt, one of their own, in the Capitol’s second-floor corner office, and a supermajority of term-limited, short-timers in the Legislature. That is an especially disconcerting combination when early projections suggest the state may have a half-a-billion dollars less to spend next year – even though costs continue to rise. Neither Stitt nor most current legislators were in office the last time income tax cuts and an economic downturn blew a billion-dollar hole in the state budget. Do we really want to repeat the 2018 nightmare that led to a statewide teacher walkout? The fact is, the income tax is the state treasury’s largest revenue generator. If it were eliminated, where would Oklahoma get the money to keep schools open, roads paved and other vital services funded? Higher sales taxes? Property taxes? Gasoline taxes? More toll roads? Eliminating the personal income tax – the fairest tax of all because it is based on ability to pay – would shift more of the tax burden onto workaday Sooners, the folks for whom an extra penny or two at the gas pump or dollar on the turnpike can become budget-busting. For the record: Oklahoma’s top personal income tax rate – 4.75% – is far from onerous. Yes, it’s 4.75% more than in Texas, where there is no personal income tax. But before you get all misty-eyed about how Oklahoma should be more like Texas, compare property taxes in the two states. That alone should send a chill up the spine of Oklahoma homeowners and landowners. Arnold Hamilton is editor of The Oklahoma Observer; okobserver.org.CBC is restoring its live New Year’s Eve celebration. A year after the national broadcaster cancelled the 2024 countdown due to “financial pressures,” it says the special event is back on the TV schedule to mark the dawn of 2025. Festivities begin Dec. 31 with the one-hour “22 Minutes New Year’s Eve Pregame Special,” a satirical reflection on the events of 2024 with the cast of the political comedy series “This Hour Has 22 Minutes.” It will be followed by “Canada Live! Countdown 2025,” a special hosted by news anchor Adrienne Arsenault and singer Jann Arden broadcasting live from Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre, and anchor Ian Hanomansing and comedian Ali Hassan at Vancouver’s VanDusen Botanical Garden. A representative for the CBC says the coast-to-coast show will feature reporters at more than a dozen community events across the country while a countdown to the new year will take place in each of the six time zones. Throughout the seven-and-a-half-hour program, “many Canadian celebrity guests” will appear in live and pre-taped messages. “Canada Live! Countdown 2025” begins at 8 p.m. ET on CBC News Network and CBC Gem with CBC-TV and CBC Radio picking up the feed at 9 p.m. in local markets. Last year, the CBC replaced its live New Year’s Eve programming with a taped Just For Laughs special hosted by comedian Mae Martin. That left Canadians without a homegrown countdown on any of the major networks, which sparked blowback on social media from some viewers. The CBC began its annual specials in 2017 to mark Canada’s sesquicentennial year. Some of the more recent broadcasts were hosted by comedian Rick Mercer and featured fireworks and musical performances in key cities. But when CBC paused those plans last year, it said the show had become “increasingly expensive to produce.” The decision to sideline the program was made shortly after members of Parliament summoned outgoing CBC president Catherine Tait to testify about job cuts and her refusal to rule out bonuses for CBC executives.
SANTA FE, N.M.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 12, 2024-- The Water, Access, Treatment and Reuse (WATR) Alliance, a newly formed nonprofit organization, today announced its official launch. Headquartered in Santa Fe, New Mexico, WATR Alliance is dedicated to advocating for innovative and sustainable water management practices at the city, state and federal levels throughout the Southwest and in Texas. With a focus on fostering economic growth, social equity, and ecological sustainability, the alliance aims to unite diverse stakeholders in reshaping water reuse and policy. “The Southwest’s unique water challenges demand collaborative solutions—ones that integrate technology, policy and community engagement,” said Jennifer Bradfute, Executive Director of WATR Alliance. WATR will immediately focus on some initiatives in New Mexico during the upcoming 2025 legislative session. “We may not be the loudest voice this session, but we are committed to building the most robust and inclusive membership. What truly matters to us is that our advocacy resonates across many sectors—bringing together diverse perspectives to align on a shared path forward. The establishment of the WATR Alliance is meant to fill a crucial gap by approaching water management from a comprehensive H2O molecule standpoint—considering all aspects of water's journey and impact. This perspective brings together sectors that range from agricultural, local municipalities and acequias to the energy industry, environmental groups and indigenous communities. The shared goal is the preservation of water resources and the maximization of reuse opportunities to support water reuse throughout the Southwest and the communities that have come to rely on water for their economic and social well-being. “The launch of this alliance embodies our shared vision for a sustainable water future,” said Kelly Bennett, Chair of the WATR Alliance Board of Directors and CEO of B3 Insights. “There is an incredible opportunity to augment water supply in this arid region. By harnessing the collective expertise and commitment of a diverse group of stakeholders, we can create a unified framework and amplify our voice to drive improved water access, treatment, and reuse that benefits the Southwestern region of the United States and Texas.” Key initiatives of WATR Alliance include: Advocacy: Engaging with policymakers to support and advocate for a variety of water recycling and reuse initiatives. Collaboration: Building partnerships among businesses, municipalities, and other nonprofit and trade associations to drive collective water management solutions. Education: Offering resources and workshops to promote water sustainability practices and raise awareness about responsible water reuse opportunities and challenges. “The WATR Alliance is about uniting people through the shared resource of water,” said Michael Dyson, Treasurer of the WATR Alliance Board of Directors and CEO at Infinity Water Solutions. “For too long, we have passed judgment based on the origin of water, rather than its fitness for an intended use. All water, regardless of its source, holds immense value for industry and has even greater potential for the broader community, particularly in water-stressed areas. Our region’s water supply, much like its natural resources, is abundant and represents a vital opportunity for economic diversification if we’re willing to embrace water in a circular framework.” The WATR Alliance invites community members, policymakers, and organizations interested in sustainable water practices to join this transformative movement. Through proactive collaboration, the Alliance seeks to drive meaningful change that ensures economic resilience, environmental health, and social progress throughout the Southwest and beyond. About WATR Alliance The Water, Access, Treatment, and Reuse (WATR) Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reshaping water management through advocacy, partnerships, and innovation. With a commitment to sustainable practices, WATR Alliance promotes access, advanced treatment solutions, and the reuse of water resources, aligning with principles of economic development and ecological stewardship. For more information, visit www.watrnm.com View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241211506521/en/ CONTACT: Ashley Kegley-Whitehead Chief Communications Officer (512) 660-2898 Ashley@water.energy KEYWORD: CALIFORNIA ARIZONA UTAH TEXAS NEW MEXICO NEVADA COLORADO UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: COAL OTHER NATURAL RESOURCES ALTERNATIVE ENERGY HARDWARE MINING/MINERALS ENERGY FOREST PRODUCTS DATA MANAGEMENT AGRICULTURE UNIVERSITY TECHNOLOGY NATURAL RESOURCES EDUCATION ENGINEERING CHEMICALS/PLASTICS ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE (ESG) MANUFACTURING OTHER CONSTRUCTION & PROPERTY RESIDENTIAL BUILDING & REAL ESTATE WHITE HOUSE/FEDERAL GOVERNMENT COMMERCIAL BUILDING & REAL ESTATE STATE/LOCAL CONSTRUCTION & PROPERTY PUBLIC POLICY SCIENCE PUBLIC POLICY/GOVERNMENT ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH NUCLEAR ENVIRONMENT URBAN PLANNING LEGAL FINANCE OTHER SCIENCE OTHER ENERGY OTHER TECHNOLOGY BANKING UTILITIES PROFESSIONAL SERVICES OIL/GAS SOURCE: WATR Alliance Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/12/2024 05:03 PM/DISC: 12/12/2024 05:03 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241211506521/en
Bad Bunny announces a new album, ‘Debí Tirar Más Fotos’
Eyeing mega naval deal, Germany's TKMS says it plans to make India hub of submarine constructionHave you ever heard of the term Digital Detox and its impact? In today’s world, we humans spend a lot of time with various digital screens. This term emerged from our inability to break free from the rapidly changing landscape of cultural communication. So, in this article, I will share with you what I understand about Digital Detox. Starting a digital detoxification begins with setting clear and meaningful goals. Take some time to reflect on why you feel the need to take a break from technology and what you want to gain from it. Perhaps you’re aiming to reduce stress caused by constant notifications and online demands, or maybe you want to improve your sleep quality by stepping away from screens before bedtime. Your goal could also be as simple as spending more quality time with your family and friends, free from digital distractions. Whatever your reasons, having a clear purpose will help keep you motivated and focused throughout your detox journey. Creating boundaries is a key step in a successful digital detox. Start by setting specific times during your day or week when you commit to being device-free. For instance, you might decide to put your phone away during meals so you can focus on enjoying your food and connecting with those around you. Another idea is to establish a screen-free routine before bedtime to help your mind unwind and improve your sleep quality. You could even dedicate entire weekends to disconnecting from devices and engaging in offline activities. These boundaries allow you to take control of your time, fostering healthier habits and a better balance between your digital and real-world life. Informing others about your digital detox is an important step to ensure success. Let your friends, family, and colleagues know about your plan so they can understand why you might be less available or slower to respond. By sharing your goals, you also invite their support, which can help you stay committed. For example, your loved ones might refrain from sending unnecessary messages or help you stick to your boundaries by encouraging offline activities. Open communication ensures that those around you won’t misinterpret your reduced online presence and can even inspire them to join you in prioritizing real-world connections. Finding alternatives to screen time is a crucial part of a successful digital detox. Instead of reaching for your devices, explore activities that allow you to unplug and focus on the present moment. For example, immerse yourself in a captivating book, which can transport you to another world and stimulate your imagination. You might also enjoy going for a walk, which not only helps clear your mind but also keeps you physically active. Picking up a new hobby, such as painting, gardening, or cooking, is another excellent way to spend your time productively and creatively. By replacing screen time with fulfilling offline activities, you’ll discover new interests and enjoy a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Using technology mindfully is an essential part of maintaining a balanced digital detox. Instead of defaulting to mindless scrolling through social media or getting lost in endless online content, make a conscious effort to use your devices with intention. For instance, if you’re online, focus on activities that are productive or enriching, such as learning a new skill, connecting meaningfully with friends, or managing essential tasks. Set limits on your screen time and be aware of how you’re using technology, ensuring it adds value to your life rather than simply filling time. This mindful approach helps you stay in control and prevents digital habits from dominating your day. A gradual reduction in screen time is an effective way to ease into a digital detox and make the transition more manageable. Instead of abruptly cutting off your device usage, start small by setting achievable daily limits. For example, you could begin by reducing the time you spend on social media by 15 minutes each day or turning off your devices an hour before bed. Over time, these small changes will add up, helping you adjust without feeling overwhelmed. This step-by-step approach not only makes the detox more sustainable but also allows you to build healthier digital habits at a pace that works for you. One of the greatest benefits of a digital detox is improved mental health. Constant exposure to social media and the endless stream of notifications can often lead to stress and anxiety, as people feel pressured to stay connected or compare themselves to others online. By stepping away from these digital distractions, you give your mind a much-needed break, allowing you to relax and focus on the present. Over time, reduced screen time can lead to a calmer, more balanced mindset, helping you feel more in control of your emotions and less overwhelmed by the demands of the digital world. A digital detox can lead to better sleep, especially when you reduce screen time in the hours before bedtime. The blue light emitted by screens interferes with the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, making it harder to fall and stay asleep. By stepping away from devices in the evening, you allow your body to follow its natural sleep-wake cycle. This simple change can result in deeper, more restorative sleep, leaving you feeling refreshed and energized the next day. Over time, this improved sleep quality contributes to better overall health and well-being. A digital detox can greatly enhance your focus and productivity. When you cut down on the constant digital distractions, such as checking notifications or scrolling through social media, it becomes easier to concentrate on important tasks. Without the interruptions of emails, messages, or apps, your mind can focus more deeply on what you’re doing, leading to better results in less time. This increase in productivity allows you to accomplish more, whether at work, school or in personal projects, while also feeling more satisfied with your progress. Over time, the habit of reducing distractions will help you develop stronger focus and a more efficient work routine. A digital detox can lead to stronger relationships by fostering more face-to-face interactions and quality time with your loved ones. When you reduce screen time, you’re more present and attentive, allowing you to engage in meaningful conversations without distractions. Spending uninterrupted time together helps deepen emotional connections and create lasting memories. Whether it’s enjoying a meal together, playing games, or simply having a heartfelt chat, these moments strengthen bonds and improve communication. By prioritizing real-world connections over digital ones, you’ll cultivate deeper, more fulfilling relationships that are built on genuine connections and shared experiences. Taking a break from screens can significantly boost your creativity. Without the constant noise and information overload from digital devices, your mind has the freedom to wander and think more deeply. This mental space allows for new ideas to emerge and creative solutions to form. Engaging in offline activities like walking, journaling, or simply daydreaming can help your brain make connections it might not have otherwise, leading to fresh perspectives and innovative thinking. By stepping away from screens, you allow yourself to tap into your creative potential and explore new ways of thinking and problem-solving. Reducing screen time can have a positive impact on your physical health by encouraging more movement and less sedentary behaviour. When you’re not spending hours in front of a screen, you’re more likely to engage in physical activities like walking, exercising, or even simple tasks like cleaning and cooking. These activities help reduce the risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle, such as obesity, poor posture, and heart disease. By prioritizing movement and spending less time on devices, you improve your overall fitness and energy levels, which leads to a healthier and more active lifestyle. Contemplating the importance of a digital detox reveals the profound impact technology has on our daily lives and well-being. In our hyper-connected world, constant notifications, social media pressures, and screen time can lead to increased stress and anxiety. By stepping back and setting meaningful goals for a digital detox, individuals can regain control over their lives, reduce mental clutter, and enhance their overall quality of life. Reflecting on the reasons behind the need for a detox – whether it’s to improve sleep, strengthen relationships, or simply find more time for personal growth – can provide the motivation needed to commit to the process and achieve lasting benefits. Furthermore, the practice of creating boundaries and finding alternatives to screen time can foster healthier habits and a more balanced lifestyle. By setting aside device-free times, such as during meals or before bedtime, individuals can engage more deeply with the world around them and reconnect with loved ones. Exploring offline activities like reading, walking, or pursuing new hobbies not only helps reduce screen dependence but also stimulates creativity and personal development. This mindful approach to technology use encourages a more intentional and fulfilling way of living, where digital tools enhance rather than dominate one’s life. All in all, a digital detox offers numerous benefits that extend beyond just reducing screen time. It promotes improved mental health, better sleep, heightened focus, and stronger relationships. By setting clear goals, establishing boundaries, and mindfully using technology, individuals can achieve a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. The key lies in taking small, gradual steps to make the transition manageable and sustainable. As people become more conscious of their digital habits, they can enjoy the positive changes that a digital detox brings, ultimately leading to a more satisfying and enriched life.
Stock market today: Stocks waver in thin trading after US markets reopen following a holiday pauseFOR MONDAY An ongoing court battle has forced the Philippine government and the World Bank to cancel a loan aimed at speeding up customs processes. The World Bank disclosed on Dec. 20 that the Philippines Customs Modernization Project, for which the Washington-based multilateral lender committed $88.28 million back in 2020, is "no longer viable." "The lawsuit filed by Omniprime, an unsuccessful bidder under a different, non-IBRD [International Bank for Reconstruction and Development]-related customs processing modernization project, has prevented the Bureau of Customs (BOC) from procuring the customs processing system (CPS), [which] was the project's most important activity," the World Bank noted. The IBRD is the World Bank's lending arm for developing country clients like the Philippines. The World Bank added that the BOC last May decided to cancel this project via a letter addressed to its supervising agency, the Department of Finance (DOF), as the country's second-biggest revenue collector deemed the court case as "without a foreseeable resolution." On top of this legal impediment, the World Bank cited that it took the BOC two years to procure its project support and quality assurance (PSQA), such that this project "suffered from multi-faceted delays." Last November, the DOF confirmed the BOC's proposal to cancel the project, leading to the World Bank's decision to also end its loan. Since the BOC already disbursed $4.48 million or 5.1 percent of the loan since project launch in 2021, the World Bank requested the Philippine government that "any remaining unspent amount on the designated account upon project closing will be returned to the IBRD within four months of project closing." The current closing date is on June 30 of next year. In a separate Dec. 20 implementation status and results report, the World Bank said this project's overall implementation progress is "unsatisfactory," while its overall risk rating is "high." "Only the PSQA activity, along with the acquisition of information technology (IT) equipment, was under implementation to date," the World Bank pointed out. The World Bank also rated as "unsatisfactory" the progress towards achieving the project's development objective of improving the BOC's efficiency to ultimately reduce trade costs. When the World Bank green-lit this loan four years ago, the Philippines targeted to slash the time to import and export to 80 and 30 hours, respectively, by 2025. Back then, importation processes handled by the BOC were 120-hours long, while exportation took 42 hours.
MINNEAPOLIS, Dec. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sun Country Airlines ( NASDAQ: SNCY ) debuted its first custom-designed aircraft livery in celebration of Minnesota Golden Gopher Athletics. Sun Country was named the Official Airline of Gopher Athletics in 2023. In addition, Sun Country has provided charter service for the university’s sports teams since 2012 and has flown nearly 500 charters during the past 12 years. "Sun Country is proud to debut this aircraft design that illustrates our hometown pride and longstanding partnership between two iconic Minnesota organizations,” said Grant Whitney, Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer. "We look forward to continuing our multi-year partnership with Gopher Athletics and will root for them for years to come." “This is a tremendous extension between two proud Minnesota brands,” said Minnesota Senior Associate Athletic Director Mike Wierzbicki. “We take great pride in our relationship with Sun Country. They have been a tremendous partner, and we are excited for Minnesota fans and college sports fans to see the Minnesota Block M and Maroon and Gold flying all over the country.” This livery is the first custom aircraft design in Sun Country’s fleet of 43 passenger planes. Among one of the first flights with the Maroon and Gold paint, the aircraft is scheduled to take the Gopher football team to the Duke’s Mayo Bowl in Charlotte, N.C., on Monday, December 30. “Customers and Gopher fans will see this aircraft, which is tail number 809, on many routes throughout our network,” Whitney added. “Our history with Gopher Athletics presented a great opportunity for us to finally create a custom livery that our hometown will be excited about.” Gopher Sports Properties, the locally based team of Learfield – the media and technology company powering college athletics – is the exclusive multimedia rights holder for Gopher Athletics and oversees all sponsorship agreements on behalf of the athletic department. Read more about our partnership with Minnesota Gopher Athletics here . About Sun Country Sun Country Airlines is a new breed of hybrid low-cost air carrier, whose mission is to connect guests to their favorite people and places, to create lifelong memories and transformative experiences. Sun Country dynamically deploys shared resources across our synergistic scheduled service, charter, and cargo businesses. Based in Minnesota, we focus on serving leisure and visiting friends and relatives (“VFR”) passengers and charter customers and providing cargo service to Amazon, with flights throughout the United States and to destinations in Mexico, Central America, Canada, and the Caribbean. For photos, b-roll and additional company information, visit https://www.stories.suncountry.com/multimedia About Gopher Athletics The University of Minnesota sponsors 22 varsity intercollegiate athletic teams and is represented by more than 625 student-athletes who compete in the Big Ten and the Western Collegiate Hockey Association. Minnesota has claimed 29 national championships in eight different sports and has won 216 regular-season conference titles and 42 conference tournament championships. Minnesota has also produced 213 Academic All-Americans, which ranks as the tenth most all-time among college and universities. Media Contact: MediaRelations@suncountry.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0798544c-facb-42aa-8a31-00018bc3f781A MULTI-MILLION euro investment is set to transform a former convent and school in the village of Doon. Ballyhoura Rural Services, which took ownership of the former Sisters of Mercy Convent and secondary school, have €8.4m plans to bring a new lease of life to the buildings which have been out of use for 20 years. Initially, 23 homes for people fighting loneliness and isolation will be developed - but there is more to come, all going well, said John Walsh, the chairman of Ballyhoura Rural Services. READ MORE: Limerick's Debenhams building back in temporary use “It’s a depressing enough site in the village. But changing it would be a part of the village’s renewal,” he explained. “It’ll be massively significant for the village of Doon.” Ballyhoura Rural Services has formally announced its intention to apply for planning permission from Limerick City and County Council to develop the independent living units. But Mr Walsh also hopes to transform the old secondary school building to provide residential units in its old dormitory rooms. “We are meeting with the HSE to identify their requirements in rural Limerick. We would follow the direction they would give us into the future,” he told Limerick Live. For now the focus is on developing these independent living units, Mr Walsh said. “A number of things held it up. The initial planning ran out. But the funding is in place there, and the quotes are with contractors. We should definitely be ready to go early to mid 2025. It’s just a case of getting the planning permission over the line.” The planning application will stipulate the change of use of the three-storey convent building to accommodate the 23 independent community living units. A new entrance will be provided from the east side of the building. A new car park will be provided and modern-day extensions to the convent will be removed. A commercial kitchen is also proposed for the ground floor, according to a planning notice. Community space will be available in the former chapel, and John says he hopes this can be enjoyed by the whole village. “We’d like this to be a social hub for the village. Everyone in the village could utilise this,” he said. The independent living units will provide a mix of single and double bedroom apartments. Occupants will be aged over 50 and have lifetime tenancies. The old convent building is around 33,000 square feet, and has previously been described as being dilapidated. The Sisters of Mercy donated the convent and the former St Joseph’s Secondary School on the same campus in Doon to Ballyhoura Rural Services back in April 2019. Local Fianna Fail councillor Martin Ryan has admitted he is upset a second planning application has been necessary, adding he feels an extension could have been sought to the first one. He said: “I’m disappointed a new application has to be lodged instead of the original application being extended. It’s a further delay when we need services delivered.”
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How to watch Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Dallas Cowboys: TV channel, streaming infoWhy Luigi Mangione is the beautiful face of American nihilismThere’s nothing that compares to a meal shared with good company. It’s the backdrop for successful partnerships and new friendships, yielding connection beyond muffled words shared on a crowded dancefloor. New York City nightlife is known for its infectious energy. But lately, many socialites and partygoers alike are searching for more meaningful interactions, trading in dancefloors for dinner tables. Brands usually announce new launches or clever collaborations with all-out parties that go on all night long. These events draw in “on-the-scene” crowds, but it can be difficult to have genuine interactions in these often hectic settings. A dinner party provides a space to unite over a shared love language and also grants an entry point for people to get to know each other in an open and comfortable environment. That’s why brands and prominent nightlife figures are leaning toward the dinner series as an opportunity to connect on a deeper level. Even some of the hottest underground figures in nightlife need a break from the hustle from time to time, which is why Mr. Black created the Little Black Book campaign. Bringing the unspoken heroes — doorpeople and VIP list curators — of some of NYC’s buzziest hotspots out of their usual posts, the brand curated a series of dinners with some of the industry’s most connected figures to shake up the status quo. Frankie Carratini , protector of peace at The Nines and Laissez Faire, doesn’t shy away from a night on the town. But he makes a point about the importance of deep connection in a high-speed, hyper-online world. “To me, a meal shared with someone is one of life’s most intimate moments. You and your dinner mates are carving out 2 to 3 hours to catch up, share stories and connect on a variety of topics. I think in a world where we are so digitally connected, it allows us that in-person connection that all humans, at their core, crave.” Markus Kelle , another iconic guardian of some of the most coveted spots in the city, and Fabrizio Brienza , nightclub owner who can usually be spotted outside of Paul’s Casablanca, hosted their own Little Black Book dinners as well, taking part in this social shift. “The best nights I’ve had in New York have been with the nightlife babes, off duty, off the grid and off social media. A great dinner party is similar to an evening spent at a club, but it’s a gathering presented in a different medium — albeit one where the conversation doesn’t come in second to the music,” Kelle shares. Capitalizing on heightened cravings for connection, especially in a post-pandemic world, many New Yorkers decided to start their own dinner series or meet-ups with locals. For a number of them, what began as modest home-cooked meals with friends flourished into full-blown hospitality services, like that of Lucky Dinner Club or That Dinner Thing . Lucky Dinner Club was founded by Gabrielle Macafee to spread love, “breaking the fourth wall” and encouraging connection over meals infused with care. “There is no place on earth like NYC. Everyone is set on doing their own thing, but there is also an understanding that we need to support each other.” “It’s not as easy to break the fourth wall at a restaurant, bar, or club. I knew I loved cooking and wanted to share this love with the people I love. There is so much vulnerability in sharing what you’ve created with others. I’m very grateful for it. Whatever it becomes.” Sierra from That Dinner Thing, another series that hosts monthly pop-up meals, is on the verge of celebrating her third year in the city, and she has often leaned on dinners and impromptu happy hours to meet new people while settling in. “I then turned those dinners, drinks and coffees into a community,” she says. “I was never really the type of person to build relationships out at a club or night out at a bar. The moments I have in those spaces are ephemeral — to be remembered with a follow on Instagram or a saved phone number with the name of the place we met, but never more than that.” So, she figured, why not make the ephemeral more permanent? Why not create the community she was eagerly searching for? Though she can’t promise lifelong friendships will be formed or that you’ll meet “the one” — she provides a launch point for that initial spark. “I think a lot of the time people actually go out to escape themselves and their daily lives. But, when people choose to come to an intimate gathering, they are doing so to perhaps feel more like themselves and to connect,” she continues, “At a dinner party, there’s an opportunity and a responsibility to bring yourself and your story so others can get to know you better and you can get to know others in a way you can’t in other settings.” Ghetto Gastro and Commune NYC , similarly, were formed to bring locals together, but both also act as collaborative concept platforms based around food. Born in the Bronx, Ghetto Gastro is a culinary collective that bridges the gap between food and other cultural touchpoints — music, fashion, design and more. Its founders, Jon Gray, Pierre Serrao and Lester Walker wanted to spotlight Caribbean, Latin, Asian and African cultures through its interactive events and partnerships. Serrao and Ghetto Gastro’s marketing director Malcolm McNeil spoke about the power of food as a bridge between cultures. “The thing is, food is a gift any way you put it. It’s a gift that anyone on this earth can appreciate in its true form or even as a gesture in the form of an invite,” McNeil reflects, “At clubs, my awareness is slightly lowered towards those around me. In intimate dinner settings, I’m able to appreciate the details. There’s a clear beginning, middle and end to the night, woven through the courses and conversations, versus the unorganized and unintentional medley of moments a club might bring me.” “For over a decade now we have been curating culinary experiences for our people to enjoy basically free of cost,” says Serrao. “The thing that you experience the most at intimate dinner gatherings is real conversations with people that can turn into actionable moments, allowing you to build relationships and understand people, brands and also how the industry is moving.” Commune NYC is driven by establishing new relationships as well, providing a tangible third space for its local community in Bed-Stuy. The collective hosts its own food cart, wine bar and has now ventured into engaging à la carte food pop-ups, which Chef Tara Thomas helps bring to life as culinary director. Thomas is a Gen-Zer, so she naturally gravitated toward social media to build her base when she first moved to NYC six years ago. But eventually, she wanted to bring those friendships IRL. It wasn’t long before her innate passion for food was able to accomplish just that. At Commune, she helps to curate food and hospitality programming and highlights the integrity of street food through the collective’s pop-ups. But Thomas has always seen food as a sacred connector. “I am definitely the girl who prefers a dinner party over a bar or club; there’s something so romantic about sitting in a room with folks deep in meaningful conversation sharing a meal,” she continues, “A meal shared with anyone is a celebration of our compassion to keep one another alive.” This uptick in intimate gatherings centered around a shared universal language doesn’t always manifest in the same way. Some host dinner parties for those in the same industry like Ghetto Gastro, while others even lean into speed dating as a theme for these occasions, like WHEN & WHERE . The supper club was founded by Jessica and Courtney Eu, two cousins who bonded through an appreciation for baking. They decided they wanted to open up the invitation to anyone who needed nourishment, and it quickly became a more regular affair. The two try to implement different activities into each dinner, like games or thematic menus, and no two occasions are the same. “A dinner party is an amazing alternative for those who are looking to fill their week with something different. One of our most popular dinner series is the recurring ‘Meet Cute’ dinners which we host with a dating podcast and event series, Drink First ,” the Eu cousins share. “In a way, starting these monthly shared meals felt like a continuation of our family traditions while we created a new family for ourselves in the city.” Looking ahead, it seems like dinner parties are the new it-function. Signaling a wider cultural shift towards more impactful community moments, the dinner party series is the latest, hottest rendezvous. From award-winning stars to industry leaders, artists, business professionals and more — people from all walks of life can appreciate the simple joys that a shared meal can bring. While each event may offer a different menu and vibe, you can rest assured that you’ll probably leave more than full — but also fulfilled on a deeper level.
Barite Market To Grow By USD 353.88 Million (2024-2028), Report On AI Redefining Market Landscape And Boost From Oil & Gas Drilling - TechnavioFrom merely being an accessory to now a health tech device, has significantly expanded the AirPods' features and functions to be a more important device to own, and users do not need to buy a new one in order to get the said feature. One of the biggest upgrades to the AirPods Pro 2 is its hearing aid feature, and it will allow users who require these devices to use the music streaming accessory as an alternative. That being said, there are still limitations to the technology which we will explore in this article, but the important thing is, that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently gave it authorization for the feature. The latest iOS 18.2 upgrade from Cupertino gave the world more access to the renowned AirPods feature that can help with auditory impairments, as well as its detection feature to help users with this latest health tech feature. According to , Apple recently expanded the AirPods Pro's hearing test capabilities to nine countries worldwide, and this includes Cyprus, Czechia, France, Italy, Luxembourg, Romania, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. Additionally, the UAE has given Apple and its software the authorization to use the AirPods Pro 2 as a hearing aid device, expanding the device's capabilities for the region after the United States first welcomed the feature. The US was among the first countries to give authorization to Apple to tout its AirPod Pro 2 as a clinical-grade hearing aid device thanks to iOS 18. Initially, Apple introduced the feature via iOS 18.1 which was released in October, and it gave those in need the ability to utilize the AirPods Pro 2, and this is part of the over-the-counter offers in the market now. However, it is important to note that users need to ensure that their AirPods Pro 2s are already running at least the 7B19 version or later firmware updates from Apple apart from iOS 18.1. The Cupertino tech giant is also known for its previous efforts in transforming its previous wearable accessories into health tech devices, with the company starting with the Apple Watch series that received heartbeat detection and later, respiratory rate, AFib, and more. The AirPods Pro 2 are already approved as "clinical grade" over-the-counter hearing aids in the US, as well as the UAE, and it is recommended for those who have mild to moderate hearing loss as determined by physicians. Since the AirPods Pro 2 is first and foremost a tech device, users may have different functions for the wearables apart from being a hearing aid device. While the AirPods Pro 2 is already two years old, it is still one of the most advanced devices there is from Cupertino's AirPods lineup, with the most recent major change being its . That being said, users needed to buy a new set of AirPods Pro 2 to get this USB-C charging and replace their existing Lightning-port-equipped device. There was much hype when rumors first talked about Apple's upgrade via iOS 18 that will offer the AirPods Pro in a new light, one where it will now be a medical device while still retaining its iconic features, to deliver a .Stakeholder dialogue brings SMEs and regulators together
Western Metallica Provides Update On Its Drilling Campaign at the Luz Maria Copper-Molybdenum Porphyry Project, Peru
