jilicc In Blake Lively ’s bombshell sexual harassment complaint against Justin Baldoni , the fixers are now part of the problem. On top of the laundry list of accused misconduct on the set of the film “ It Ends with Us ,” Lively’s surprise weekend filing against her director and costar Baldoni lays bare a show business process that’s meant to operate in the shadows – the hiring of expensive crisis communications experts to sway opinion and uplift clients. Attorneys for Lively obtained numerous text messages between Baldoni’s personal rep Jennifer Abel and the crisis team he retained this summer, led by Melissa Nathan. Documents and texts said Baldoni did so to prepare for a scenario where Lively would come forward with accusations from the set, as well as narratives that key cast members were distancing themselves from Baldoni during the promotion of the Sony Pictures release. The exchanges reveal candid – or “cringeworthy,” as one competing crisis expert told Variety – efforts to counter Lively by enlisting friendly journalists and allegedly hiring a digital whiz to fabricate and amplify unflattering content about her. Baldoni’s attorney Bryan Freedman blasted the claims and supporting documents, like text messages and a multi-page strategy, as “cherry-picked” to build a narrative that forgoes crucial context and, in what would be important for Baldoni in this case, inaction in coming after Lively. While the complaint is under investigation by Freedman, the attorney said he is confident the full picture will reveal “nothing untoward happened” when it comes to Lively and Baldoni’s team — and that “reputation management,” as its commonly referred to in the digital lives of celebrities, is routine for countless public personalities. This weekend, Abel addressed the Lively complaint in a private Facebook group for PR and marketing professionals. The post, verified by Variety , said that texts and documents obtained did not intend to smear the actress. “No negative press was ever facilitated, no social combat plan, although we were prepared for it, as it’s our job to be ready for any scenario, but we didn’t have to implement anything, because the internet was doing the work for us,” Abel wrote. In a statement, Freedman added that Nathan “operated as any other crisis management firm would when hired by a client experiencing threats by two extremely powerful people with unlimited resources,” referring to Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds. “The standard scenario planning TAG PR drafted proved unnecessary as audiences found Lively’s own actions, interviews and marketing during the promotional tour distasteful, and responded organically to that which the media themselves picked up on.” Some power players were dismayed by the tough tactics being floated by Abel and Nathan to “smear” Lively. Nathan pitched a four-month battle plan with a $175,000 price tag to “start threads of theories” on platforms like Reddit and TikTok in Baldoni’s favor, and to create “social fan engagement to go back and forth with any negative accounts, helping to change [sic] narrative and stay on track,” Lively’s complaint said. There was also the contracting of Jed Wallace, operator of a firm called Street Relations. One source described him as a “Ray Donovan” type fixer employed by powerful people. Freedman, who knows Wallace well, said he would not describe him as a fixer but rather someone with deep resources for unusual circumstances (he knows how to get a chopper for medical evacuation in remote parts of Italy, for instance). Lively’s complaint filed with the California Civil Rights Department said Wallace weaponized “a digital army around the country from New York to Los Angeles to create, seed, and promote content that appeared to be authentic.” While the suit does not specify which stories might have targeted Lively, numerous unflattering pieces about the actress were resurfaced during the press tour for “It Ends with Us.” They included problematic past comments about the trans community (using the phrase “trannies”), and an attempted lifestyle brand launch in which Lively promoted the “allure” of an Antebellum South aesthetic . Most importantly, Nathan stressed in early days, these efforts would be “untraceable.” Not anymore. “It’s quite common for crisis people to be reactive, to monitor and respond to situations,” said one veteran media broker who has hired crisis firms on behalf of clients. “But to stage this entire campaign? To put this in writing?” The source added that “fix-it shops usually employ some cyber warriors who come in to manage chatter, but it’s an unwritten code that you will not hire companies or social media agitators to go out and script a new narrative.” Crisis PR is common in many sectors for individuals, corporations and political parties. What has industry insiders aghast over this conflict is the nature of the correspondence. “You know we can bury anyone,” Nathan wrote to Abel in a February text cited in the complaint, ironically in an exchange about how she could not put such things in writing to Baldoni. The quote wound up in a New York Times headline. In an early Monday statement, Freedman said it was “ironic that the New York Times, through their effort to ‘uncover’ an insidious PR effort, played directly into the hands of Lively’s own dubious PR tactics by publishing leaked personal text exchanges that lack critical context – the very same tactics she’s accusing the firm of implementing.” Some PR pros were empathetic to Abel and Nathan, given the unusual disclosure of private texts and documents which were likely subject to nondisclosure agreements. “There are two smear campaigns going on here,” said one top studio executive. “One against Lively, and one against the PR people. It doesn’t mean that Jen Abel and Melissa Nathan didn’t do anything wrong, but who sold them out? There’s a code you don’t breach.” Another industry figure frequently involved in high profile conflicts said, “That’s crisis PR talk, right? Everybody talks like that. Everybody loves to talk a big game.” The severity of the proposed campaign against Lively has led to some questions about how actionable these kinds of services could be in court. “I think people might see what Baldoni did as at least unfair, if not harmful or possibly illegal in terms of further harassment or retaliation,” said Ryan Baker, co-founding partner of legal firm Waymaker LLP. “It puts this under a little more scrutiny, because all of these things clearly happened in a dynamic where Lively and Baldoni are going back and forth.” Yet another highly sought after PR guru, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the sensational nature of the complaint is distracting from an industry reality. “These days, all PR is crisis PR,” they said.

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — There's more than just school pride and bragging rights to all that bellyaching over who might be in and who might be out of college football 's first 12-team playoff. Try the more than $115 million that will be spread across the conferences at the end of the season, all depending on who gets in and which teams go the farthest. According to the College Football Playoff website , the 12 teams simply making the bracket earn their conferences $4 million each. Another $4 million goes to conferences whose teams get into the quarterfinals. Then, there's $6 million more for teams that make the semifinals and another $6 million for those who play for the title. Most of this bonanza comes courtesy of ESPN, which is forking over $1.3 billion a year to televise the new postseason. A lot of that money is already earmarked — more goes to the Big Ten and Southeastern Conference than the Big 12 or Atlantic Coast — but a lot is up for grabs in the 11 games that will play out between the opening round on Dec. 20 and the final on Jan. 20. In all, the teams that make the title game will bring $20 million to their conferences, all of which distribute that money, along with billions in TV revenue and other sources, in different ways. In fiscal 2022-23, the Big Ten, for instance, reported revenue of nearly $880 million and distributed about $60.5 million to most of its members. The massive stakes might help explain the unabashed lobbying coming from some corners of the football world, as the tension grows in advance of Sunday's final rankings, which will set the bracket. Earlier this week, Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark lit into the selection committee, which doesn't have a single team higher than 15 in the rankings. That does two things: It positions the Big 12 as a one-bid league, and also threatens to makes its champion — either Arizona State or Iowa State — the fifth-best among conference titlists that get automatic bids. Only the top four of those get byes, which could cost the Big 12 a spot in the quarterfinals — or $4 million. “The committee continues to show time and time again that they are paying attention to logos versus resumes,” Yormark said this week, while slamming the idea of teams with two losses in his conference being ranked worse than teams with three in the SEC. The ACC is also staring at a one-bid season with only No. 8 SMU inside the cut line of this week's projected bracket. Miami's loss last week all but bumped the Hurricanes out of the playoffs, a snub that ACC commissioner Jim Phillips said left him “incredibly shocked and disappointed." “As we look ahead to the final rankings, we hope the committee will reconsider and put a deserving Miami in the field," Phillips said in a statement. The lobbying and bickering filters down to the campuses that feel the impact. And, of course, to social media. One of the most entertaining episodes came earlier this week when athletic directors at Iowa State and SMU went back and forth about whose team was more deserving. There are a few stray millions that the selection committee cannot really influence, including a $3 million payment to conferences that make the playoff. In a reminder that all these kids are going to school, after all, the conferences get $300,000 per football team that meets academic requirements to participate in the postseason. (That's basically everyone). 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

MADRID (AP) — Spanish King Felipe VI used his traditional Christmas Eve speech to remember the victims of the catastrophic Valencia flash floods , and urged the country to remain calm despite public debates around hot-button issues such as immigration and housing affordability. In a pre-recorded speech that usually reviews the year's most relevant issues, Felipe said Spain “must never forget the pain and sadness" the flood have caused. The Oct. 29 floods killed more than 225 people in eastern Spain, damaging countless homes and leaving graveyards of cars piled on top of each other. In some towns, the heavy downpours that caused the floods dropped as much as a year's worth of rain in just eight hours. In early November, as Spaniards' shock at the wreckage turned into frustration, a political blame game began, directed especially at regional authorities who failed to send timely emergency alerts to cell phones on the day of the floods. The frustration of residents in hard-hit Paiporta near Valencia was on display when people tossed mud and shouted insults at the king and government officials in early November when they made their first visit to the town. “We have seen — and understood — the frustration, the pain, the impatience, the demands for greater and more effective coordination," Felipe said about how the disaster was managed, adding that he had asked that aid be sent to everyone who needed it. He also addressed the country's housing crunch and high rents, which have become a leading concern in this European Union country that is the eurozone's fourth-largest economy. Fast-rising rents are especially acute in cities like Barcelona and Madrid, where incomes have failed to keep up, especially for younger people in a country with chronically high unemployment. Felipe urged that “all the actors involved reflect” and "listen to each other” so that they facilitate bringing access to housing under “affordable conditions.” Spain's immigration debate should keep in mind the country's European partners and immigrants' countries of origin, Felipe said, warning that “the way in which we are able to address immigration ... will say a lot in the future about our principles and the quality of our democracy.” Felipe said Spain need to remain calm in the public sphere, even in the face of a “sometimes thunderous” contest in its politics.

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — After losing to San Francisco in the playoffs three of the last five seasons, the Green Bay Packers wouldn’t mind seeing the 49ers get left out of the postseason entirely. The Packers (7-3) could damage San Francisco’s playoff hopes Sunday by beating the 49ers at Lambeau Field. San Francisco (5-5) dropped to .500 after losing at home to the Seattle Seahawks, though the 49ers remain just a game behind the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC West. “I think we’re motivated to keep winning more than anything,” Packers center Josh Myers said. “Obviously, they have knocked us out quite a bit. There’s that extra motivation behind it, but at this point, we’re just trying to churn out wins.” The 49ers will be playing this game without starting quarterback Brock Purdy, who injured his right shoulder in the Seahawks game. Although an MRI showed no structural damage, Purdy's shoulder didn't improve as the week wore on. Brandon Allen will start in Purdy's place. Green Bay is third in the NFC North and two games behind the Detroit Lions, but the Packers appear on track to at least earn a wild-card playoff berth. History suggests their path to a potential Super Bowl would get much clearer if the 49ers aren’t standing in their way. The 49ers trailed 21-14 in the fourth quarter before rallying to beat the Packers 24-21 in the divisional playoffs last year on Christian McCaffrey’s 6-yard touchdown run with 1:07 left. Now, it’s the 49ers who are struggling to protect late leads, as they’ve blown fourth-quarter advantages in three games against divisional opponents. “You could look at, ‘Hey, we’re three possessions away from being 8-2,’ but you can’t really live like that,” 49ers tight end George Kittle said. “Those are the mistakes that we’ve made to be 5-5. It’s not exactly where we want to be. It is frustrating. The nice thing is we have seven games left to go out there and play Niners football and take advantage of those opportunities.” Green Bay’s recent history of playoff frustration against the 49ers also includes a 13-10 loss at Lambeau Field in the 2021 divisional playoffs and a 37-20 road defeat in the 2019 NFC championship game. Even the Packers players who weren’t around for last season’s playoff loss realize what this game means. “I think one of the first meetings that I was in here, we had a conversation about the Niners beating us,” said Green Bay safety Xavier McKinney, who joined the Packers this season. “So I understand how important it is, and we all do.” Both teams must figure out how to convert red-zone opportunities into touchdowns. The 49ers are scoring touchdowns on just 48.8% of their drives inside an opponent’s 20-yard line to rank 27th in the NFL. The Packers are slightly worse in that regard, scoring touchdowns on 48.7% of their red-zone possessions to rank 28th. In their 20-19 victory at Chicago on Sunday, Green Bay drove to the Bears 5 without scoring on two separate series. Purdy isn't the only notable player who won't be participating in Sunday's game. San Francisco won't have four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Nick Bosa available after he hurt his left hip and oblique against the Seahawks. Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee) and linebacker Edgerrin Cooper (hamstring) also have been ruled out. Kittle expects to play for the 49ers on Sunday after missing the Seahawks game with a hamstring injury. 49ers left tackle Trent Williams (ankle) is questionable. Green Bay’s defense feasted on turnovers the first part of the season, but hasn’t been as effective in getting those takeaways lately. The Packers have 19 takeaways – already exceeding their 2023 total – but haven’t forced any turnovers in their last two games. 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan hasn’t eased McCaffrey back into the lineup in his return after missing the first eight games with Achilles tendinitis. McCaffrey has played 91% of the 49ers’ offensive snaps the past two weeks. Jordan Mason, who rushed for 685 yards during McCaffrey’s absence, has just five snaps on offense the last two games. Shanahan said he’d like to get Mason more opportunities, but it’s hard to take McCaffrey off the field. Green Bay nearly lost to the Bears because of its third-down struggles on both sides of the ball. The Packers were 1 of 5 on third-down opportunities, while the Bears went 9 of 16. The Packers’ defense could have a tough time correcting that problem against San Francisco, which has converted 45.4% of its third-down situations to rank fourth in the league. AP Pro Football Writer Josh Dubow contributed to this report. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL

NoneShatel: Is Omaha big enough for two professional volleyball teams?

Alex Ovechkin out 4 to 6 weeks with fractured fibula: What it means for Capitals, goal record chaseWhen you consider things to do for New Year's Eve, you might picture the usual: giant parties, long lines to get to the bathroom, and crowds gathered every way you turn. But just because New Year's is known as a major night to go out doesn't mean you have to buy into all the hype. In fact, staying in might be way more fun. There are a ton of festive things you can do at home on New Year's Eve, from trying Nara Smith recipes with your friends to playing a sex game with your significant other . And when you stay in on Dec. 31, you don't have to deal with the super-expensive bar tabs, the challenge of keeping track of your friends in a crowd, or the misery of trying to get ahold of an overpriced Uber ride home. Whether you're celebrating alone, with close family, with roommates or friends, or with your partner, there are plenty of ways to make this countdown to midnight one to remember, and it may even help you start new traditions . Keep reading for more things to do for New Year's Eve if you want to celebrate at home this year. — Additional reporting by Kelsey Hurwitz Finally, a Sparkly New Year's Eve Manicure You Can DIY Prepare the Perfect Cocktails Celebrating at home means you won't have to wait in line for an overpriced drink (a major win)! Instead, stock up on all your favorite spirits, beer, wine, and mixers so you'll have plenty of options when the day rolls around. Then whip up some festive cocktails or mix your go-to drink. If you aren't drinking, make a tasty mocktail instead. Bottom line: always have a delicious drink on hand for the night. Enjoy the Snack Boards of Your Dreams Tasty food is a must on New Year's Eve, even if you aren't cooking for a lot of people. Make these party appetizers to last all night or serve holiday appetizers for two . One thing you can never go wrong with? A charcuterie board, either sweet or savory. Dress Up In a Sparkly New Outfit Your home is now your runway. If you feel better in sweatpants, go for it! But if you want to get in the holiday spirit, you can't go wrong with a sparkly new party dress . Who cares if you're alone? Watch Funny Movies or TV Shows Watching funny movies or TV shows is one of the best ways to spend New Year's Eve. Laughter is the best medicine, and the voices of your favorite characters from classics like "Friends", "Sister, Sister", "The Office", or "Girlfriends" will keep you company long into the night. Pull Out All the Board Games An at-home New Year's Eve celebration is not complete without board games. Everything from Monopoly to Medium to Twister should be on the table here. Nothing is too childish, too silly, or too long to play on New Year's Eve. Plus, it's the fastest way to get the laughs rolling with your roommates or partner. Have a Dance Party Turn up the music, turn down the lights, and have a dance party right in your living room. Sure, it's not like a club, but you have space to have fun, let loose, and sing at the top of your lungs with no one or just your closest friends around to care. It's fun, and it relieves stress, so there's no excuse not to do it. Host a Murder Mystery Party Invite over a few friends, look up a murder mystery dinner script (or make up your own), and have fun trying to determine who "killed" the victim. You can even all dress up as your characters for extra fun. 15 Last-Minute Gifts That'll Arrive by Christmas — and Cost Less Than $25 Play Video Games Challenging your partner or your friends virtually to a video game will be your new favorite tradition. There are plenty of options on your phone or laptop if you don't have a game console. The night will go by in a flash. Journal About the Past Year Whether you've had an amazing or challenging year (or more likely a combination of both), it's no small feat that you made it through the year. Celebrate it! Spend some quiet time this New Year's Eve journaling, meditating, and reflecting on all that happened in 2024. It's therapeutic, plus it'll be a good way to keep a record for you to look back on someday. Write Your Resolutions Down Set your resolutions, goals, or intentions for 2025. Yes, it's cheesy, but planning ahead is also motivating, and clarifying. It's a time to reflect on your values and your actions, to make sure you're living the life you want. If you're not sure what to manifest in 2025, look to your zodiac sign . Bake and Decorate a Cake Baking sweets can make everything better, so spend some time on New Year's Eve trying out a new recipe for cookies, brownies, pie, or cake. Then decorate it and eat it! It's calming, fun, and totally delicious. Have a Sleepover in the Living Room You may not be at a glamorous hotel this New Year's Eve, but you can still sleep somewhere new. Bring all your coziest pillows and blankets to the living room to have a sleepover with your roommates, partner, besties, or pets. You can stay up late watching a movie and drinking, then simply pass out wherever you are. Donate to a Good Cause Start off 2025 right by donating to a cause you're passionate about. It's a good way to help those in need and feel good about the new year. Pop a Bottle of Bubbly at Midnight The beginning of a new year is definitely a cause for celebration. Make sure you have at least one bottle of Champagne or the sparkling non-alcoholic drink of your choice on hand to pop at midnight. Even if you're celebrating solo, the bubbles tickling your throat always feels like a festive way to cap off a night. 26 Holiday Nail-Art Designs That Are Festive but Not Cheesy Clean House OK, this one might require some explaining, but if you get it, you get it. First, in some cultures, cleaning your house is a traditional New Year activity — what better way to usher in a fresh slate than by cleansing your most private place? Second, cleaning can be fun. Scroll through some Clean Tok videos on TikTok ahead of the big day, order some fresh new cleaning supplies and organizational tools, and use what you've learned to scrub every last bit of dust and grime out of your corners. We promise, you'll feel bright and light and free going into 2025. Enjoy a Quiet Brunch The best part about celebrating New Year's Eve at home is that there's no end time. Want to go to sleep at 12:01 a.m.? Go for it! Want to stay up drinking, playing games, and watching movies until 5 a.m.? Totally OK, too! No matter how late you stay up, you can sleep in, then make yourself pancakes for brunch the next morning (and maybe some mimosas, too?). It's cozy, with no frenzied Uber rides to have to worry about. Create a Scrapbook You know all those photos you take and promptly forget about? Give them the display they deserve by creating a scrapbook to commemorate your year. You'll be amazed how good you feel seeing all the highlights of your 2024 spread out in front of you; plus, this is a fun, creative project that will help you feel inspired to make more memories. Read Through Your Journals From the Past Year The new year is always an important time of self reflection. See how far you've come and how your life has changed and evolved over the last year by taking the time to read through your journals. This isn't a time to judge your past self, but rather to appreciate how every small step you took over the course of the year led you to where you are. Take a Relaxing Bath Few things are as wonderfully relaxing as a long, hot bath. Sync your music to a Bluetooth speaker, add a few drops of your favorite essential oils, and, of course, don't forget the bubbles. Allow yourself to leave the stress of 2024 in the past as you relax your way into the new year. 10 Easy but Impactful Ways to Refresh Your Home in the New Year Sydni Ellis is a PS contributor with her master's degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. She loves talking about her passions, including writing, shopping, and reading murder mysteries. Kelsey Hurwitz was a former assistant editor at PS.

The United States Postal Service might have found a way to unite a nation bitterly divided after this month's election: It will release a Betty White stamp. The beloved actor known for roles in "The Golden Girls," "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," "Boston Legal" and others will be on a 2025 Forever stamp, USPS announced this past week. White died in late December 2021 , less than three weeks before her 100th birthday. The Postal Service hasn't announced a release date for the stamp. Betty White speaks Sept. 17, 2018, at the 70th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. “An icon of American television, Betty White (1922–2021) shared her wit and warmth with viewers for seven decades,” the Postal Service said in announcing the stamp, which depicts a smiling White based on a 2010 photograph by celebrity photographer Kwaku Alston . “The comedic actor, who gained younger generations of fans as she entered her 90s, was also revered as a compassionate advocate for animals.” Boston-based artist Dale Stephanos created the digital illustration from Alston's photo. "I'd love to send a letter back to my 18-year-old self with this stamp on it and tell him that everything is going to be OK," Stephanos posted on Facebook . Regardless of personal politics, self-proclaimed supporters of Republican President-elect Donald Trump and Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris reacted with delight on social media. "Betty White was my hero, all of my life! I actually had a doll when I was a little girl I named Betty White," one Trump supporter posted on X , formerly Twitter. “Something to make this awful week a little better: We’re getting a Betty White stamp,” a pro-Harris X account posted. White combined a wholesome image with a flare for bawdy jokes . Her television career began in the early 1950s and exploded as she aged. “The only SNL host I ever saw get a standing ovation at the after party," Seth Meyers posted on Twitter after her death. "A party at which she ordered a vodka and a hotdog and stayed til the bitter end.” Allen Ludden and his wife Betty White, who love to play games, continue a two year gin rummy battle in which she's ahead by a cumulative 6,000 points in Westchester, N.Y. on April 29, 1965. They do it professionally on TV. He's the master of ceremonies on "Password," and she makes frequent guest appearances on game shows. They play games to relax at home. (AP Photo/Bob Wands) Allen Ludden and his wife Betty White admire magnolia blossoms on the lawn of their country home in Westchester, N.Y. on May 14, 1965. (AP Photo/Bob Wands) Actress Betty White in 1965. (AP Photo) Betty White shares a moment backstage at the 28th annual Emmy Awards with Ted Knight after they each won an Emmy for their supporting roles in "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." On the series Miss White played Sue Ann Nivens while Knight played newscaster Ted Baxter. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon) LOS ANGELES, CA - MAY 17, 1976: (L-R) "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" co-stars - Ed Asner, Betty White, Mary Tyler Moore and Ted Knight - all won awards at the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences 28th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards held at the Shubert Theatre on May 17, 1976 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by TVA/PictureGroup/Invision for the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences/AP Images) Actress Betty White with Ted Knight at the Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, Sept. 13, 1981. (AP Photo/Randy Rasmussen) Betty White and Anson Williams don't seem to faze Buckeye, a St. Bernard, during an awards ceremony during which Williams was honored by the Los Angeles Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals as a friend and lover of animals. Ms. White presented a humanitarian plaque to Williams at the event, which was held in Hollywood, California, Friday, May 1, 1982. (AP Photo/Marc Karody) Actress Betty White with actor John Hillerman arriving at Emmy Awards, Sept. 22, 1985 in Pasadena, California. (AP Photo/LIU) Actresses Betty White Ludden, left, and Mary Tyler Moore, right, smile at each other in Los Angeles, Friday, June 22, 1985 during Annual Meeting of Morris Animal Foundation, at which Ludden announced her retirement as President of the animal health group, held at the Sheraton Universal Hotel in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Nick Ut) These four veteran actresses from the television series "The Golden Girls" shown during a break in taping Dec. 25, 1985 in Hollywood. From left are, Estelle Getty, Rue McClanahan, Bea Arthur and Betty White. (AP Photo/Nick Ut) Actress Betty White poses in Los Angeles, Ca. in June, 1986. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon) Betty White stands backstage at the NBC TV Bob Hope "I Love Lucy" special on Sept. 16, 1989. (AP Photo/Djansezian) Michael J. Fox and Betty White, winners of Emmys for best actor and actress in a comedy series, stand backstage at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California, Sunday, Sept. 21, 1986 after receiving their honors. (AP Photo/Douglas C. Pizac) Comedienne Betty White places her hand on the star that was presented posthumously to her husband, Allen Ludden, during ceremonies inducting him into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Hollywood, Los Angeles, Thursday, March 31, 1988. Ludden was honored with the 1,868th star of the famed walkway — between those of White and Tyrone Power. (AP Photo/Nick Ut) Estelle Getty, who plays Sophia, poses with her new husband, who plays Max, and the other "Golden Girls" after taping of episode on Friday, night, Nov. 5,1988 in Hollywood. Left to right are Rue McCLanahan (Blanche), Getty, Gilford, Bea Arthur (Dorothy) and Betty White. (AP Photo/Ira Mark Gostin) Former cast members of the Mary Tyler Moore Show, sans Mary Tyler Moore, are reunited for the Museum of Television and Radio's 9th annual Television Festival in Los Angeles Saturday, March 21, 1992. From left are Gavin MacLeod, Valerie Harper, Cloris Leachman, Betty White and Ed Asner. (AP Photo/Craig Fujii) Actress Betty White, left, writer/producer David E. Kelley, actress Bridget Fonda, and actor Oliver Platt pose at the premiere of their movie "Lake Placid," Wednesday night, July 14, 1999, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) Betty White, from "Golden Girls," and Mr. T, Lawrence Tureaud, from "The A Team," pose for photographers at NBC's 75th Anniversary Party, Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2002, in the Hollywood section of Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Rene Macura) Actors Betty White, left, Georgia Engel, second left, Gavin MacLeod, center, Valerie Harper, second right, and John Amos pose for photographers during arrivals at CBS's 75th anniversary celebration Sunday, Nov. 2, 2003, in New York. (AP Photo/Louis Lanzano) Actress Betty White laughs as an African eagle roosts overhead at the Los Angeles Zoo Monday, Feb. 20, 2006, in Los Angeles, where White was honored as Ambassador to the Animals by the city for her decades of dedication to the humane treatment of animals. (AP Photo/Nick Ut) Betty White poses for photographers on the red carpet before Comedy Central's "Roast of William Shatner," Sunday, Aug. 13, 2006, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Rene Macura) Betty White arrives at the 34th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, on Friday, June 15, 2007. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) Beatrice Arthur, left, Betty White, center, and Rue McClanahan, of the Golden Girls, arrive at the TV Land Awards on Sunday June 8, 2008 in Santa Monica, Calif. (AP Photo/Matt Sayles) Actor Henry Winkler, center, is seen Beatrice Arthur, right, and Betty White at the TV Land Awards on Sunday June 8, 2008 in Santa Monica, Calif. (AP Photo/Matt Sayles) In this Nov. 24, 2009 file photo, actress Betty White poses for a portrait following her appearance on the television talk show "In the House," in Burbank, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello, File) Actress Betty White poses for a portrait on the set of the television show "Hot in Cleveland" in Studio City section of Los Angeles on Wednesday, June 9, 2010. (AP Photo/Matt Sayles) Actress Betty White is seen on stage at the Teen Choice Awards on Sunday, Aug. 8, 2010 in Universal City, Calif. (AP Photo/Matt Sayles) Betty White, a cast member in "You Again," poses with fans holding Betty White masks at the premiere of the film in Los Angeles, Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello) Actress Betty White wears a U.S. Forest Ranger hat after being named an Honorary Forest Ranger by the US Forest Service, at the Kennedy Center in Washington Washington, Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2010. White has stated in numerous interviews that her first ambition as a young girl was "to become a forest ranger, but they didn't allow women to do that back then". (AP Photo/Cliff Owen) Betty White, left, Bradley Cooper and Scarlett Johansson arrive at the MTV Movie Awards in Universal City, Calif., on Sunday, June 6, 2010. (AP Photo/Matt Sayles) Betty White, left, Kristen Bell, center, and Jamie Lee Curtis, cast members in "You Again," pose together at the premiere of the film in Los Angeles, Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello) Betty White, left, accepts the Life Achievement Award from Sandra Bullock at the 16th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) From left, actresses Betty White, Wendie Malick, Valerie Bertinelli, and Jane Leeves pose for a portrait on the set of the television show "Hot in Cleveland" in Studio City section of Los Angeles on Wednesday, June 9, 2010. (AP Photo/Matt Sayles) Alec Baldwin, left, and Betty White are seen on stage at the 17th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011 in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) Betty White attends a book signing for her book 'If You Ask Me (And Of Course You Won't)' at Barnes & Noble in New York, Friday, May 6, 2011. (AP Photo/Charles Sykes) Actress Betty White attends a press conference prior to the taping of "Betty White's 90th Birthday: A Tribute To America's Golden Girl" on Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012 in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Vince Bucci) Actress Betty White arrives on a white pony as she is honored at a Friars Club Roast sponsored by Godiva, Wednesday, May 16, 2012 at the Sheraton Hotel in New York. (AP Photo/Starpix, Marion Curtis) Betty White, at left, attends her wax figure unveiling at Madame Tussauds on Monday, June 4, 2012 in Los Angeles. (Photo by Katy Winn/Invision/AP) From left, Sgt. 1st Class Chuck Shuck, Actress Betty White and The 2012 American Hero Dog Gabe pose during 2012 American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Saturday, Oct. 6, 2012, in Los Angeles, Calif. (Photo by Ryan Miller/Invision/AP) Betty White and Cloris Leachman onstage at the 24th Annual GLAAD Media Awards at the JW Marriott on Saturday, April 20, 2013 in Los Angeles. (Photo by Todd Williamson/Invision/AP) Ellen DeGeneres, left, presents Betty White with the award for favorite TV icon at the People's Choice Awards at the Nokia Theatre on Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2015, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP) Betty White, left, speaks at the 70th Primetime Emmy Awards on Monday, Sept. 17, 2018, at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. Looking on from right are Alec Baldwin and Kate McKinnon. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP) Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly!The death toll from Cyclone Chido , an intense tropical cyclone that made landfall in northern Mozambique, has risen to 120, with 868 people injured and more than 680,000 affected, according to the latest figures released by Mozambique's national disaster relief agency on Monday. Northern provinces of Mozambique, including Cabo Delgado, Nampula and Niassa, have suffered extensive damage from heavy downpours, storms and flooding caused by Cyclone Chido, according to the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD). Over 150,000 homes have been destroyed or partially damaged, along with 250 schools, 89 public buildings and 52 health facilities. Nearly 110,000 students have been affected, the INGD update showed. In response to the displacement, the government has set up two emergency shelters, which are currently housing 1,349 people. In a social media post on Sunday, the INGD emphasized the severe impact of Cyclone Chido on the education and health sectors. "Cyclone Chido once again highlights the vulnerability of social infrastructure to climate change and the need for resilient planning to mitigate future impacts," the post read. Cyclone Chido formed over the southwestern Indian Ocean on December 5. After devastating Mayotte, a French overseas territory, it made landfall in Mozambique on December 15, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. (Cover: A damaged telecommunications tower after Cyclone Chido made its landfall in Cabo Delgado Province, Mozambique, December 15, 2024. /CFP)

Pep Guardiola admits Man City's title race will be OVER if they lose to Liverpool next week as beleaguered boss concedes his champions are 'fragile' after Spurs hammering Man City's poor form continued with a thumping defeat against Tottenham The champions could be 11 points behind Liverpool if they lose at Anfield Will Ruben Amorim be Man United's saviour? LISTEN NOW: It's All Kicking Off! Available wherever you get your podcasts. Episodes every Monday and Thursday By JACK GAUGHAN Published: 21:43, 23 November 2024 | Updated: 22:13, 23 November 2024 e-mail 37 shares 11 View comments Pep Guardiola admitted that Manchester City are inside their own heads after the Premier League champions lost an unprecedented fifth straight game. Tottenham stunned City 4-0 at the Etihad Stadium, with James Maddison netting a brace – a result that hands a major title advantage to Liverpool before they face Southampton on Sunday. City go to Anfield next Sunday and could be 11 points behind Arne Slot ’s leaders were they to lose again on Merseyside. It’s the worst run of form in Guardiola’s managerial career and City’s heaviest home defeat in 21 years. ‘In eight years we have never lived this kind of situation,’ Guardiola said. ‘Now we have to live it and break it by winning the next games, especially the next one. Now we see things in one way, maybe in a few weeks we see it differently. ‘We’re a bit fragile, that is obvious. We struggled to score and then we’re playing in our thoughts a little bit of negativity. ‘There were a few reasons we're not able to be consistent. Now the balance is not in the right moment. But it happened. We have to do it, talk and on Tuesday against Feyenoord (in the Champions League ) have the chance to try. Hopefully the players can follow me.’ Pep Guardiola admitted that Man City are inside their own heads after their defeat by Spurs The Premier League champions lost an unprecedented fifth straight game on Saturday City could be 11 points behind Liverpool if they lose at Anfield next weekend Asked if the title has gone if they do slip 11 points behind Liverpool, Guardiola replied: ‘Yep. In terms of Liverpool winning, winning, yep.’ City also lost their 35-match unbeaten home record in the league and Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou claimed the visitors targeted Guardiola’s full backs to inflict maximum damage. ‘I thought if we got the ball out to them early... City are so aggressive in their approach, man to man,’ the Australian said. ‘Our build-up play today... we persisted in hitting those areas we needed to. We looked really threatening. ‘It is significant because they’ve got an unbelievable record at home. You can’t be blasé about it. We’ve reached these standards before but it’s about not dropping.’ City captain Kyle Walker blamed collective defensive issues for their slump – and attempted to issue a rallying cry ahead of Anfield. ‘It's a great game to turn it around and take three points from the team who sit above you,’ Walker said. ‘But we can't put in a performance like that or we'll get walked over. ‘I wouldn't say we've lost confidence together. You have to go back to the basics and get a clean sheet.’ Manchester City Liverpool Pep Guardiola Share or comment on this article: Pep Guardiola admits Man City's title race will be OVER if they lose to Liverpool next week as beleaguered boss concedes his champions are 'fragile' after Spurs hammering e-mail 37 shares Add comment

One Group Hospitality director Jonathan Segal buys $15,206 in stockDespite being one of the most prominent racing series globally, there are many common misconceptions about NASCAR. For instance, many people believe that the term ‘NASCAR’ is the name of the formula under which the Cup Series races. Well, that’s not the case. While American Stock Car racing is sanctioned by the body called NASCAR, there are many series and categories that operate under the banner. One of the oldest and long-standing types of Stock Car racing that exists in the USA is the ‘modified-spec’ Whelen Modified Tour. But what is this format of racing exactly, and why is it one of the most inventive yet raw forms of Stock Car racing? Thinking about NASCAR, people always picture the roaring Ford Mustangs and Chevy Camaros. However, the modified tour has added a twist to this concept — almost making it akin to a hybrid between NASCAR and Formula 1. In its current form, the Whelen Modified Tour runs open-wheel Stock Cars. Found mainly in the Southern and Northeastern parts of the States, this series has been prevalent since the 1940s. One of the biggest selling points of this formula is the distinctive open-wheel look of the cars. What this means is that all four tires do not have any fenders and are completely exposed. Diving into the meat and bones of these mean racing machines, the fans can find the highest power-to-weight ratios here — out of all NASCAR series. With a regulated output of around 650 horsepower, they weigh almost 1,000 pounds less than Cup Series cars — racking the scales up to 2,610 pounds. These cars are raced specifically in NASCAR’s modified division under the Whelen banner. On larger tracks like New Hampshire, they are mandated to run restrictor plates between their carburetors and intake manifolds. Lastly, a bit more trivia on these modified cars as against the Cup Series cars. Their dimensions differ largely, too. These cars — owing to their open-wheel formula — are 11 inches shorter and 23 inches wider than a Cup Series car.US goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher is retiring from international soccer

Uxbridge rider wins Winter Fair event

Dock’s Tavern, the Sheffield Lake bar and restaurant located at 4540 E. Lake Road, hosted its first-ever pop-up to celebrate the holiday season throughout December. Paul and Claudia Morrow opened Dock’s Tavern in 2010. The husband and wife duo had no prior restaurant experience before opening the location. “We both came from the medical field,” Paul Morrow said. “I worked in the emergency room, and she was a transplant coordinator.” The couple opened the restaurant to keep up with the fast-growing community. “They were ready to sell, and we just thought that we could build it up to be something different and something that would grow with the community,” Morrow said. After hearing of the popular pop-up bars in downtown Cleveland, the couple wanted to bring one to Sheffield Lake. “There’s nothing like it in Sheffield Lake,” Morrow said. The Morrows opened the pop-up this year the day after Thanksgiving. Dock’s employees worked throughout the night to create Christmas magic, Morrow said. The bar has hosted holiday-themed events almost every day since then. “We’ve done reindeer games, a paint and sip, Christmas movie night,” Claudia Morrow said. “We just thought of a lot of Christmas events for the occasion.” The bar hosted two Christmas parties during the season with a Naughty and Nice party on Dec. 21. Claudia Morrow said she hopes that next year, the pop-up will be bigger and better. “I have a book where I’m writing down what worked and what didn’t work for next year,” she said. “The wrapping we had this year, and last year, has always worked.” Every day, Dock’s brought in individuals who wrapped Christmas gifts free of charge. “All we ask is that you grab and drink and some food while you wait for your presents to be wrapped,” Paul Morrow said. Dock’s offered weekly specialty menu items. A “snow globe” themed drink where champagne was added so the bubbles made it look like it was snowing, was created for the holiday celebration. Dock’s is known for its burgers because everything is made fresh, Claudia Morrow said. A cranberry burger was added to the specialty menu, she said. The couple said they wanted to spread the holiday spirit to the Sheffield Lake community. “I think we all need some cheer,” Paul Morrow said. “We really just wanted to put a smile on people’s faces when they walked in.”When you consider things to do for New Year's Eve, you might picture the usual: giant parties, long lines to get to the bathroom, and crowds gathered every way you turn. But just because New Year's is known as a major night to go out doesn't mean you have to buy into all the hype. In fact, staying in might be way more fun. There are a ton of festive things you can do at home on New Year's Eve, from trying Nara Smith recipes with your friends to playing a sex game with your significant other . And when you stay in on Dec. 31, you don't have to deal with the super-expensive bar tabs, the challenge of keeping track of your friends in a crowd, or the misery of trying to get ahold of an overpriced Uber ride home. Whether you're celebrating alone, with close family, with roommates or friends, or with your partner, there are plenty of ways to make this countdown to midnight one to remember, and it may even help you start new traditions . Keep reading for more things to do for New Year's Eve if you want to celebrate at home this year. — Additional reporting by Kelsey Hurwitz Finally, a Sparkly New Year's Eve Manicure You Can DIY Prepare the Perfect Cocktails Celebrating at home means you won't have to wait in line for an overpriced drink (a major win)! Instead, stock up on all your favorite spirits, beer, wine, and mixers so you'll have plenty of options when the day rolls around. Then whip up some festive cocktails or mix your go-to drink. If you aren't drinking, make a tasty mocktail instead. Bottom line: always have a delicious drink on hand for the night. Enjoy the Snack Boards of Your Dreams Tasty food is a must on New Year's Eve, even if you aren't cooking for a lot of people. Make these party appetizers to last all night or serve holiday appetizers for two . One thing you can never go wrong with? A charcuterie board, either sweet or savory. Dress Up In a Sparkly New Outfit Your home is now your runway. If you feel better in sweatpants, go for it! But if you want to get in the holiday spirit, you can't go wrong with a sparkly new party dress . Who cares if you're alone? Watch Funny Movies or TV Shows Watching funny movies or TV shows is one of the best ways to spend New Year's Eve. Laughter is the best medicine, and the voices of your favorite characters from classics like "Friends", "Sister, Sister", "The Office", or "Girlfriends" will keep you company long into the night. Pull Out All the Board Games An at-home New Year's Eve celebration is not complete without board games. Everything from Monopoly to Medium to Twister should be on the table here. Nothing is too childish, too silly, or too long to play on New Year's Eve. Plus, it's the fastest way to get the laughs rolling with your roommates or partner. Have a Dance Party Turn up the music, turn down the lights, and have a dance party right in your living room. Sure, it's not like a club, but you have space to have fun, let loose, and sing at the top of your lungs with no one or just your closest friends around to care. It's fun, and it relieves stress, so there's no excuse not to do it. Host a Murder Mystery Party Invite over a few friends, look up a murder mystery dinner script (or make up your own), and have fun trying to determine who "killed" the victim. You can even all dress up as your characters for extra fun. 15 Last-Minute Gifts That'll Arrive by Christmas — and Cost Less Than $25 Play Video Games Challenging your partner or your friends virtually to a video game will be your new favorite tradition. There are plenty of options on your phone or laptop if you don't have a game console. The night will go by in a flash. Journal About the Past Year Whether you've had an amazing or challenging year (or more likely a combination of both), it's no small feat that you made it through the year. Celebrate it! Spend some quiet time this New Year's Eve journaling, meditating, and reflecting on all that happened in 2024. It's therapeutic, plus it'll be a good way to keep a record for you to look back on someday. Write Your Resolutions Down Set your resolutions, goals, or intentions for 2025. Yes, it's cheesy, but planning ahead is also motivating, and clarifying. It's a time to reflect on your values and your actions, to make sure you're living the life you want. If you're not sure what to manifest in 2025, look to your zodiac sign . Bake and Decorate a Cake Baking sweets can make everything better, so spend some time on New Year's Eve trying out a new recipe for cookies, brownies, pie, or cake. Then decorate it and eat it! It's calming, fun, and totally delicious. Have a Sleepover in the Living Room You may not be at a glamorous hotel this New Year's Eve, but you can still sleep somewhere new. Bring all your coziest pillows and blankets to the living room to have a sleepover with your roommates, partner, besties, or pets. You can stay up late watching a movie and drinking, then simply pass out wherever you are. Donate to a Good Cause Start off 2025 right by donating to a cause you're passionate about. It's a good way to help those in need and feel good about the new year. Pop a Bottle of Bubbly at Midnight The beginning of a new year is definitely a cause for celebration. Make sure you have at least one bottle of Champagne or the sparkling non-alcoholic drink of your choice on hand to pop at midnight. Even if you're celebrating solo, the bubbles tickling your throat always feels like a festive way to cap off a night. 26 Holiday Nail-Art Designs That Are Festive but Not Cheesy Clean House OK, this one might require some explaining, but if you get it, you get it. First, in some cultures, cleaning your house is a traditional New Year activity — what better way to usher in a fresh slate than by cleansing your most private place? Second, cleaning can be fun. Scroll through some Clean Tok videos on TikTok ahead of the big day, order some fresh new cleaning supplies and organizational tools, and use what you've learned to scrub every last bit of dust and grime out of your corners. We promise, you'll feel bright and light and free going into 2025. Enjoy a Quiet Brunch The best part about celebrating New Year's Eve at home is that there's no end time. Want to go to sleep at 12:01 a.m.? Go for it! Want to stay up drinking, playing games, and watching movies until 5 a.m.? Totally OK, too! No matter how late you stay up, you can sleep in, then make yourself pancakes for brunch the next morning (and maybe some mimosas, too?). It's cozy, with no frenzied Uber rides to have to worry about. Create a Scrapbook You know all those photos you take and promptly forget about? Give them the display they deserve by creating a scrapbook to commemorate your year. You'll be amazed how good you feel seeing all the highlights of your 2024 spread out in front of you; plus, this is a fun, creative project that will help you feel inspired to make more memories. Read Through Your Journals From the Past Year The new year is always an important time of self reflection. See how far you've come and how your life has changed and evolved over the last year by taking the time to read through your journals. This isn't a time to judge your past self, but rather to appreciate how every small step you took over the course of the year led you to where you are. Take a Relaxing Bath Few things are as wonderfully relaxing as a long, hot bath. Sync your music to a Bluetooth speaker, add a few drops of your favorite essential oils, and, of course, don't forget the bubbles. Allow yourself to leave the stress of 2024 in the past as you relax your way into the new year. 10 Easy but Impactful Ways to Refresh Your Home in the New Year Sydni Ellis is a PS contributor with her master's degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. She loves talking about her passions, including writing, shopping, and reading murder mysteries. Kelsey Hurwitz was a former assistant editor at PS.

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