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MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The plan for the Minnesota Vikings was to bring in Sam Darnold as the bridge between Kirk Cousins and J.J. McCarthy, confident his strong arm and starting experience would sufficiently run a high-caliber offense until the rookie was deemed ready to play. Darnold's performance to date has been much closer to superstar than mere stopgap. “He’s a baller," Vikings safety Harrison Smith said. "He can make stuff happen when he needs to. I know with the outside narrative on him and his path and everything, you might not think that, but ever since he got here, it felt like that was going to happen.” Having led the Vikings (10-2) to their fifth consecutive victory with the go-ahead touchdown pass against Arizona last week, one game after a stellar overtime drive to beat Chicago , Darnold has become one of the darlings of this NFL this season with his success in coach Kevin O'Connell's system after the third overall pick in the 2018 draft started his career in rather bleak fashion. His first year in Minnesota sure has been smoother than what Cousins has gone through in his debut with the Atlanta Falcons . Last week in a loss at home to the Los Angeles Chargers, Cousins matched his career high with four interceptions. “I don’t think anybody can put any more pressure on Kirk than he has for himself. He’s carried us through this season when we were figuring out a lot of things on defense,” Falcons defensive tackle Grady Jarrett said. “He’s just having a hard time right now. There’s nothing to say he can’t catch fire and light it up like he’s been doing.” The Falcons (6-6) take their three-game losing streak on the road to face the Vikings, with division races for both teams in full swing. The quarterback contrasts have made this matchup all the more intriguing, with Cousins coming back to the place where he spent the previous six seasons. Cousins has a $25 million salary cap hit this season, the 11th-highest among quarterbacks in the league. Even if the Falcons were to move on in 2026 and swallow the dead money for two more years with eighth overall pick Michael Penix Jr. waiting in the wings, Cousins will carry a $40 million charge in 2025. Darnold’s cap charge is $5 million this season, just 31st on the list. Though he will become a free agent in March, the Vikings structured his contract with void years to spread his cap hit into next season for another $5 million. McCarthy, the 10th overall pick, won't be ready until next year after having surgery to repair the meniscus he tore in his right knee in his first preseason game. Though Darnold has had a couple of clunkers this year, the Vikings still won those games and he's bounced back strong without letting interceptions linger into future decisions. "He’s kind of found a little balance, at least the last few weeks, of ‘When is it too risky?’ and ‘When can I take my shot at something?’” offensive coordinator Wes Phillips said. The Falcons have seen as much on tape. “I think he’s playing free,” Pro Bowl safety Jessie Bates said. “It’s not a lot of complicated throws or anything that he’s doing. I just think that he’s finally able to feel comfortable in himself.” Falcons coach Raheem Morris decided to address the significance of Cousins’ homecoming with the team, bracing for the type of crowd reaction that will only intensify the noise at U.S. Bank Stadium that's already daunting for opponents. Minnesota's defense has thrived this season at home, using the fans to enhance the effectiveness of a disguise-based, aggressive scheme that leads the league with 18 interceptions and has also been adept at rushing the passer and stuffing the run. “The environment they create up in Minnesota is absolutely outstanding,” Morris said. Cousins isn't the only key figure from the Falcons who's well-known to Vikings coaches. Morris was the defensive coordinator in 2021 with the Los Angeles Rams when O'Connell was the offensive coordinator and Phillips was the tight ends coach on that Super Bowl champion team. Vikings running back Aaron Jones has fumbled three times in the last two games, losing two of them, but he hasn't lost the confidence of coaches or teammates as evidenced by the pass called for his go-ahead touchdown catch against the Cardinals. Family is a strong support system for him, too, but sometimes that means tough love. His mother, Vurgess Jones, let him have it after the game when they talked about the turnovers. “I was like, ‘I’ve got to learn from it,'” Jones said. “She was like, ‘You didn’t learn last week?'” He has matched his career high in 2024 with five fumbles and three lost, a fact not lost on a Falcons defense that's aggressive with dislodging techniques despite only four recovered fumbles in 12 games. “You can see it all over the tape: Those guys are coaching it," Phillips said. Vikings outside linebacker Jonathan Greenard, who was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Month after racking up eight tackles for loss in November, carried his pass-rushing mojo into December with a couple of clutch plays in the final minute to preserve the victory over Arizona. Greenard has 10 of the team's 39 sacks. “How many times this year has he affected the quarterback, drawn a penalty, sacked the quarterback, strip-sacked like last week in these critical moments where you need your best players to go make those plays?” O'Connell said. “He’s done it time and time again.” Falcons running back Bijan Robinson set a career high last week with 26 carries. He had 102 yards rushing and was again a significant part of the passing attack with six catches against the Chargers. “I just do whatever I can to help us as a team,” said Robinson, who’s fifth in the NFL with 1,277 combined yards from scrimmage. “I just trust whatever they have in the plan.” AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFLMac Jones threw two touchdown passes Sunday and the Jacksonville Jaguars earned a season sweep of the visiting Tennessee Titans with a 20-13 victory. Jones connected on 15 of 22 passes for 174 yards, finding Parker Washington and rookie Bryan Thomas Jr. for scores, as Jacksonville (4-12) left Tennessee (3-13) behind in the AFC South cellar. Cam Little booted field goals of 48 and 44 yards. Mason Rudolph hit 19 of 31 attempts for 193 yards with a touchdown and an interception for the Titans, which dropped their fifth consecutive game. Tyjae Spears rushed for 95 yards on 20 carries, playing in place of Tony Pollard (flu/ankle). Jones' 11-yard scoring strike to Thomas with 7:05 left in the game gave the Jaguars a 20-10 lead but Tennessee responded with Matthew Wright's 28-yard field goal at the 2:02 mark. After getting a three-and-out, the Titans had a chance to force overtime and reached the Jacksonville 26. But Rudolph's fourth-down pass intended for Nick Westbrook-Ikhine was knocked down at the goal line with nine seconds left. The pregame storyline concerned which team could benefit most from a loss. Both entered a game behind the New York Giants for the potential No. 1 overall pick in April's NFL Draft. Jacksonville initiated scoring on the game's opening drive, needing to drive only 38 yards on nine plays to set up Little for his first field goal at the 10:46 mark. The Jaguars got into the end zone for the first time with 8:59 left in the half on Jones' 2-yard touchdown pass to Washington, coming five plays after Rudolph tossed a tipped-ball interception. Little's second field goal upped the margin to 13-0 with 2:02 remaining before Tennessee pieced together a two-minute drive that set up Wright for a 39-yard field goal as time expired, making it 13-3 at halftime. The Titans started the second half with their best drive of the game, chewing up 85 yards and eight minutes before Rudolph hit Nick Vannett with an 8-yard strike to cut the margin to 13-10. --Field Level Media
The Biden administration has agreed to lend $6 billion to troubled electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian to build a new factory near Atlanta, Georgia, a massive giveaway from an administration in love with EVs. The New York Times reports that the Biden administration has announced that it will provide a $6 billion loan to Rivian, which produces electric vehicles but has struggled significantly in recent years. The loan will be used to finance the construction of a new factory in Social Circle, Georgia, near Atlanta, where Rivian plans to manufacture midsize sport utility vehicles and hatchbacks. The loan agreement is expected to be finalized before the inauguration of President-elect Donald J. Trump in January, making it a binding contract between the Department of Energy and Rivian. This move is seen as part of the Biden administration’s efforts to secure leftist climate policies before the incoming administration takes office. The financing is a crucial lifeline for Rivian, which has been struggling to generate profits while selling vans to businesses and pickups and SUVs to individual consumers. The Georgia factory will complement Rivian’s existing plant in Normal, Illinois, and produce SUVs with a starting price of around $45,000, compared to the company’s current consumer vehicles, which start at approximately $70,000. R.J. Scaringe, the chief executive of Rivian, stated that the loan would help create thousands of new American jobs and further strengthen the country’s leadership in electric vehicle manufacturing and technology. The project has also garnered support from Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R), who announced the plans outside the Georgia State Capitol in Atlanta in December 2021. Rivian recently received additional support from Volkswagen, with the companies forming a joint venture to develop software and electronics. Volkswagen plans to invest $5.8 billion in the joint venture and Rivian, extending their partnership announced in June. Breitbart News reported earlier this year that Rivian was suffering serious financial difficulties: CNBC reports that shares of electric vehicle makers Rivian and Lucid plunged on Thursday following disappointing fourth-quarter earnings reports released after markets closed on Wednesday. Rivian stock sank around 25 percent, while Lucid shares dropped nearly 17 percent. Both companies cited stagnant production numbers and “existing economic and geopolitical uncertainties” as factors impacting results. Rivian forecasts production of 57,000 vehicles in 2024 — about the same as the 57,232 vehicles manufactured in 2023. Meanwhile, Lucid predicts production of 9,000 vehicles this year, a mere seven percent increase over 2022 levels. Read more at the New York Times here. Lucas Nolan is a reporter for Breitbart News covering issues of free speech and online censorship.SINGAPORE: In the immediate aftermath of the United States election, all Pacific Island leaders sent messages of congratulations to president-elect Donald Trump and expressed hope that cooperation with the new administration would continue. What are the chances that the improved relationship between the US and Pacific Island countries, carefully nurtured under the Biden administration, will continue to grow? What are the areas of potential cooperation and possible conflicts of interest? A look at recent US Pacific Islands policies might provide some clues. THE BIDEN ADMINISTRATION AND PACIFIC ISLAND COUNTRIES The Biden administration released its Indo-Pacific Strategy in February 2022, the framework for countering Chinese influence, maintaining America's traditional strategic dominance, and signalling its desire to play a greater role in the region. One tool was to strengthen overlapping minilateral alliances, such as AUKUS and the Quad. Others were newly created, such as the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF). After the shock of the China-Solomon Islands security deal in May 2022 , the Biden administration increased its diplomatic and economic engagement with Pacific Island countries. President Joe Biden twice hosted Pacific Island Forum (PIF) leaders at the White House for US-Pacific Summits in 2022 and 2023. The US also announced the US-Pacific Partnership Strategy, a roadmap for strengthening cooperation. Over the past four years, there have been an unusual number of high-level political visits to Pacific Island countries, including visits by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Vice President Kamala Harris, and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, who was in Fiji in early December. The Biden administration also increased its diplomatic presence, opening embassies in Tonga, Kiribati, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands, and a US Agency for International Development (USAID) office in Fiji. After aid cuts in the years before, Biden announced a US$810 million aid package over 10 years, including US$130 million for climate change projects. This funding still has not received full congressional approval and its future under Trump 2.0 remains unclear. In March, Biden renewed the Compact of Freely Associated States (COFA), announcing an unprecedented package of US$7 billion over 20 years for the Marshall Islands, Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia. The US has a long-standing special relationship with these three strategic countries in the Western Pacific, which receive the lion's share of US Pacific aid and investment. COFA will continue to allow the US to provide defence, deploy forces and operate bases there. CLOSE ALLY AUSTRALIA ASSISTING America’s ally, Australia, has also been doing the heavy lifting in the South Pacific. Already the biggest aid donor to the Pacific Islands countries, Australia has further increased assistance in the last two years. To counter China’s influence with its neighbours, Australia has concluded several security and aid deals, among them the recent security agreement with Tuvalu which gives Australia a veto power in Tuvalu’s foreign and security affairs. In December, Australia concluded a rather controversial agreement with Nauru which gives it veto power of pacts that Nauru might want to conclude with third countries. The five-year deal continues to secure Australia’s detention facility for Australia-bound refugees and comes with a A$140 million budget (US$87 million) and police support for Nauru. The Australia-Solomon Islands security arrangement , announced recently on Dec 20, will fund A$190 million into the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and set up a new police training centre in the capital Honiara. This deal is a major achievement of the Labour-led Albanese government to counter the China-Solomon Islands security agreement. THE SECOND TRUMP ADMINISTRATION: WHAT TO EXPECT? Trump is likely to focus primarily on the security aspects. Fiji and Papua New Guinea had become the main beneficiaries of the Biden administration's strategy over the past two years, with landmark defence and security agreements. Increased economic ties between Papua New Guinea and China will loom large over any potential US disengagement or trade sanctions. The Trump administration can be expected to honour previous agreements, so as not to create loopholes for potential Chinese security-related engagement. But the new administration must also be mindful of the growing discontent over the use of the Pacific as a strategic theatre for the US and China. Pacific Island leaders have voiced concerns about ongoing intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) testing in the Pacific, complaining about an American ICBM test in November that flew over the Marshall Islands and a Chinese ICBM test in the South Pacific in September. PIF Secretary General Baron Waqa recently said: "Geopolitical manoeuvring mean nothing to Pacific peoples who have cyclones on the horizon [and] are focused on building resilience, peace and prosperity for our families, communities and nations." The three COFA nations may also come into focus again. Trump's first administration regarded the ability to use US military installations in these three island nations as an important part of his Indo-Pacific strategy. He hosted the leaders of the three countries at the White House in May 2019. This view of their "usefulness" to the US is likely to prevail. However, a longstanding practice has been to allow citizens of the three COFA states to live and work in the United States and access federal benefits like food stamps and healthcare. This may be at odds with the proclaimed immigration agenda of the second Trump administration. A partial US revision of the COFA articles is unlikely to be acceptable to the three partner countries. There is a strong possibility that the second Trump Administration will leave Biden’s 14-member economic initiative IPEF. Fiji, being the only Pacific Islands member, will probably search for alternative trade agreements. CLIMATE ACTION THE BIGGEST OBSTACLE The biggest obstacle to the relationship between the US and Pacific Island countries will be climate change, as their positions are diametrically opposed. Trump is expected to withdraw from the Paris Agreement a second time and focus US energy policy on oil and gas. Pacific Island countries have become leaders in the global fight against climate change , such as in two United Nations groups – the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Tuvalu's prime minister has called on major polluters to make concrete commitments to phase out fossil fuel production. Current policies – leading to new coal, oil and gas projects - are a "death sentence", he insisted. Samoa rallied UN member states to press for more progress on " loss and damage finance ". And it was Vanuatu that brought about a landmark UN resolution, backed by 130 countries, on climate justice and countries' obligations to address climate change. Under the second Trump administration, there will be difficult discussions at the UN between AOSIS, SIDS and the US. Expect also the Biden climate change package for Pacific Island countries to be reduced or scrapped. PRAGMATIC COOPERATION FOR A LOUDER VOICE The second Trump administration will have to take into account that Pacific Island countries have become more pragmatic and have more options than in the past. Geopolitical wrangling has also meant that other donors, both governmental and non-governmental, are willing to step in. PIF countries have shown that they can overcome some of their internal regional divisions, coordinate their positions and work with like-minded countries outside the Pacific. This pragmatic “New Pacific Diplomacy” has strengthened their climate voice in UN negotiations. The geopolitical power competition has provided Pacific Island leaders the opportunity to leverage their unique position to advance some of their most pressing issues, climate emergency and infrastructure investment. No doubt, they will use it in the next four years.
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Bargain hunters looking to pick up a new vacuum cleaner this Black Friday do not need to wait until November 29 to make their purchase. That's because Wowcher has slashed the price of a powerful Dyson vacuum by a whopping 51%. The refurbished Dyson DC50 Multi Floor Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner typically retails for £249.90 but it has been slashed to £122 as part of Wowcher's massive Black Friday sale. That's an unmissable saving of almost £128. As one of Dyson's smallest upright models , the DC50 is designed for easy manoeuvring and storage, offering high performance without the bulk. It weighs just 5.4 kg but has the performance of a full-size upright. The technology inside has not simply been ‘shrunk’, but concentrated – every angle and dimension re-engineered. READ MORE: Get a Tonies Toniebox for £44 instead of £80 in limited time WH Smith deal READ MORE: Sky will give you its 'lowest ever price' if you change how you watch TV Graded as good, the Dyson vacuum cleaner will have a few signs of wear-and-tear but will be in overall good shape. "There might be a few surface marks, but it’s still aesthetically sound," Wowcher says. Functionality isn’t affected in the slightest, though - everything works perfect. The lightweight cleaner boasts Dyson's patented ball technology to overcome the steering limitations of fixed wheels. Even more of the machine’s key components are located inside the ball itself, which reduces clutter on the outside of the machine for even easier steering into difficult places. Ordinary vacuum cleaners rely on bags to trap dust and dirt and the more that you use them, the tiny holes in the bag clog with particles of dust, losing to a restriction in air flow and loss of suction over time. But the DC50 Multi Floor uses cyclone technology instead, spinning air at incredibly high speed flinging dust, dirt and pet hair straight into the bin, without the use of a bag and no loss of suction. As one of Dyson's smallest upright models, the DC50 Multi Floor offers high performance without the bulk (Image: Amazon) Other things to note is the DC50 Multi Floor's advanced brush head which adjusts automatically to different floor types, and the brush bar that contains carbon fibre filaments for removing fine dust from hard floors. Plus, the removable star tool is designed for cleaning stairs and hard to reach areas. While Wowcher's listing doesn't have any reviews as of yet, it has over 90 five-star reviews on Amazon . Giving it a glowing five stars, one shopper said: "This is brilliant, excellent suction for hard floors and carpets. It's so good to have a vacuum that can get everything done in the home." A second wrote: "Incredibly light. Very easy to manoeuvre. Good suction as expected. Does a good job of hovering up all the pet hair. Stairs are quick and easy to do now because the hoover is so light. Very quick and easy to empty and clean - a fantastic buy." Dyson's DC50 Multi Floor has a bagless design (Image: Amazon) Somebody else didn't like the Dyson's DC50 Multi Floor as much, however, giving it a three-star review. They said: "If this vacuum was £100, I would give it five stars. At full price, it fails to impress. it's made with cheap and lightweight plastic. it clogs easily, and needs to be picked up and placed directly over small objects, such as a paper clip, in order to pick it up." But another loved their latest home purchase , adding: "This is exactly what we wanted - it's light, very portable and easy to use. We were amazed at the amount of dust in our carpets when we first used it. Would highly recommend." Shark has also released its Black Friday deals, with up to £100 off its bestselling vacuums. The Deluxe Black Anti Hair Wrap Upright Vacuum Cleaner with Lift-Away, Pet Model is now £169.99 down from £269.99 and the Classic Anti Hair Wrap Upright Pet Vacuum is now £189.99. At Currys, the Bosch Unlimited Auto Detect Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is on sale with a £150 discount, now £249. Or a classic Henry Vacuum Cleaner is now £119 instead of £159.The day we've all been waiting for is HERE. Walmart's Black Friday deals are finally live, and if you're a parent, now's your time to stock up on things to make your life easier — from baby gear to toys to little treats for yourself. We're all about improved quality of life here. We know you don't have a lot of time so let's get straight to it: 1. A convertible car seat that'll grow with your little one and save you even more money down the line by not having to buy yet ANOTHER seat. This seat can be rear-facing or front-facing and can convert into a belt-positioned booster. It even includes a footrest/stool both for comfort and to protect your seats. Promising review: "I love this car seat. Love the footrest feature and that it has multiple cup holders. I have four kids — so far my favorite car seat, yet so cozy for the little one." — Miranda Price: $98 (originally $199.99; available in five colors) 2. A large, portable play yard with a safety barrier for when you need a safe place to put your rolling baby while you reheat your coffee again. And once playtime is finished, it folds up easily for storage. This waterproof play yard also comes with 14 teether blocks! Promising review: "Easy to store and clean. It can be moved from room to room. Good cushioning for babies that are starting to move." — Yaritza Price: $24.98 (originally $44.98) 3. A learning table — my favorite toy for the pulling to stand and early walking crew. While they get stronger standing to play, it's so fun to watch them bang on buttons with gusto. This one can also be used without the legs, making it a great activity for sitters, too. Promising review: "I like that it can be used at different stages of a child's needs. Very helpful that legs detach for small kids who can't yet fully stand without support." — Loida Price: $19.98 (originally $39.98) 4. A set of magnetic tiles that store easily and are extremely versatile. Kids love these pretty universally, and while building castles and towers is awesome, the magnets mean they can be played with in more places. Refrigerator space? Magnetic tiles. A metal garage door? Magnetic tiles. Really, anything metal? You guessed it — tiles. Promising review: "I was a little hesitant to purchase as I was only familiar with the main MagnaTile brand. These are really good for about a third of the cost! I have a 2.5- and almost 6-year-old who love constructing with these. They hold up well to being tossed and accidentally stepped on. The magnets are the right strength to hold builds together without being 'too' strong for little hands to remove and attach pieces." — Katherine Price: $27.99 for a 101-piece set (originally $39.99) 5. A kid-friendly chair and lounger that'll give your kiddo their own place to sit and lie down. Kids love having furniture their size, and it's nice as a parent to not have to worry about chairs that are significantly more expensive to replace. Promising review: "Bought this for my son for Christmas, and he loves it! He takes naps in it, sits in it while he watches TV or his tablet, or just anytime. It's 100% worth the purchase!" — Taylor Price: $34.99 (originally $49.99; available in six patterns) 6. A digital photo frame so you can see your favorite photos without pulling out your phone. Family and friends can even connect to the frame and add to it — no matter where they live — making this a perfect gift for grandparents, too. Promising review: "I loved the frame when I saw it, and let me tell you, it's very pretty. The frame itself is thick, unlike those thin photo frames. It looks nice on a bedside table." — Jal Price: $119 (originally $299; available in two colors) 7. A kids' tablet because there's no time like the present for a technology-literate kid. This tablet comes chock-full of features, including 80 pre-installed Disney E-books, over 20 educational apps, parental control settings, and a screen that protects against the reckless abandon with which toddlers live their lives. Promising review: "I bought two tablets for my twins, and they are the best. As 3-year-olds, I wanted them to expand on their vocabulary, and the pre-download games are amazing. My girls used to watch cartoons all day, every day, but since they got these tablets, they have not once asked to watch any cartoons — there is so much for them to do." — Shiene Price: $44.95 (originally $80.99; available in seven colors) 8. A set of four cereal storage containers because no one in the family likes the same cereal at the same time. These keep things looking neat and organized in your pantry while allowing your family to have their breakfast of choice. Promising review: "HA HA, I WON the battle with the ants this summer by purchasing these canisters. I can't tell you how many kinds of canisters I have tried to outsmart the ants — and I bought the most enticing things for them and their raiding parties couldn't get in: Froot Loops, Honey Nut Cheerios, and Frosted Flakes to tempt the little buggers. And nothing — they came, they tried to conquer and couldn't get in, so they have just gone away. I love it." — Darla Price: $12.99+ for a four-pack (originally $30.99+; available in three sizes) 9. An instant camera to catch adorable photos of your little love and actually have something physical to hold onto. Instant cameras provide awesome opportunities for little crafts and opportunities to relive memories when they're older. This camera set comes with a 10-pack of film, a camera case, a photo album, and stickers. You can also stock up on additional film ! Promising review: "Great value. You've got everything you need to start snapping and saving photos right out of the box. I love being able to capture the memories in real time to save them." — Miranda Price: $55 (originally $78; available in three colors) 10. A basic swing set that'll get their energy out without breaking the bank. With two swings, a saucer swing, and a slide, what more do you need for a little outside break from the chaos? Promising review: "This is a really great swing set. I got this on a flash deal for my kiddos, and we just got it set up. Let me just say this was a great buy. It's sturdy. It has foam for the legs of the set and covers for the chains. It also covers the bolts. Super pleased will definitely recommend this to my friends." — Naomi Price: $99 (originally $249.99) 11. A machine washable rug so you don't have to worry about seasonal allergies hibernating for the winter in your rug . Washable rugs are the technology we have been waiting years for and now's the time to finally treat yourself. Promising review: "I absolutely love this rug. I am using it in the living room, and it is partially covered by our large sectional, so I haven't washed it yet. I like that it is thin and not bulky. It is soft, and the print is exactly like the photo. I have four boys, so we did have a spill. I was able to use the portable Boswell machine, and it came right up. The price for the size is the best part. Can't beat the value." — Leelee Price: $15.99+ (originally $64.99+; available in 10 sizes and two colors) 12. A self-emptying robot vacuum and mop combo that allows you to finally stop wiping one foot and then the other on your pant leg as you walk through your kitchen. Just set a schedule, and you don't ever have to think, "Ughhhhh, I need to vacuum this place" again. Promising review: "I've never had enough extra to splurge on a Roomba, but have always wanted one. This little guy is the best thing I've purchased all year. It does a great job and was way less. You can program him to go off as many times as you want. It's easy to clean and hardly gets stuck on anything." — Jayne Price: $88.99 (originally $369.99) 13. A 24-pack of batteries because 'tis the season for batteries in EVERYTHING. Don't make the mistake of realizing on Christmas morning that you're all out of your trusty AAs — now's the time to be prepared. And don't forget the AAAs ! Promising review: "Over the years, I think I have purchased every brand of battery out there. Energizer is the only one that truly lasts the longest. I use both the regular Energizer and the rechargeable ones. The rechargeable ones have lasted for years! Energizer is the only brand I buy — period. Recommend." — Jordan Price: $14.79 (originally $24.99) 14. A set of shower storage shelves to help keep your shower organized, even when each person has a different shampoo, conditioner, and soap preference. These shelves also use adhesive, so there's no need to get out a drill just to have some organization. Promising review: "I was worried that the adhesive wouldn't stick well to the wall, but to my surprise, it was super easy to install and looks great! The shelves are sturdy and can hold a lot of weight without damaging the wall. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a simple and hassle-free solution." — Monica Price: $12.99 for a two-pack (originally $59.99; available in packs of two and three and in four colors) 15. An inflatable hot tub to give you a place to relax after a long day of doing all the things to keep the humans functioning. You deserve a little relaxation for once. Some people even turn the heat off and use this as a pool in the summer for their kids. Everyone wins! Price: $499.99 (originally $749.99) 16. A candle warmer with an automatic shutoff timer so you can enjoy your candle obsession without having to worry about an open flame with little hands or forgetful minds. I got one of these a few months ago and LOVE that there's no fire or soot, so I burn my candles more than I used to! Promising review: "I have several half-used candle jars that I loved the smell so much I didn't want to throw away. Now I can enjoy them again! I love the dimmer, adjustable height, and timer options. Also, I like the fact that it plugs into the wall and does not require batteries" — Patricia Price: $18.99 (originally $29.99; available in two colors) 17. A charging station because you're burning major battery with all of those pictures and videos you're taking now. You can place this anywhere and charge up without missing those first steps or that adorable impromptu concert because your phone's charging. Promising review: "This is perfect to have next to my chair in my living room, or it would also be perfect to have next to your bed on your nightstand. I can charge both my cell phone and my Apple Watch doesn’t take up much space and is so practical." — Jeannie Price: $14.59 (originally $59.99; available in six colors) 18. A very practical emergency food supply — a little insurance in case disaster strikes. With a sturdy bucket and up to 25 years of shelf life, this will just make you feel better by erasing that ever-nagging "I need to get an emergency kit together" out of your mind. This kit includes 12 Servings of chocolate dairy delight, 16 servings of orange drink mix, 16 servings of brown sugar and maple multi-grain cereal, four servings of cheesy macaroni, four Servings of hearty tortilla soup, four servings of chili macaroni, eight servings of Southwest rice and beans, eight servings gluten-free tomato basil soup with pasta, four servings savory stroganoff, 12 servings chicken flavored noodle soup, and 12 servings apple cinnamon cereal Promising review: "Long term food storage is always a difficult thing to review as it's very much like insurance. You pay for a product that you actually hope you won't need to use. I won't be opening this to try it unless its shelf life is close by, so your guess is as good as mine. However, the food comes in a well made, stackable plastic container which makes it pretty easy to store, and the price is very reasonable, especially in these inflated times." — James Price: $64.99 (originally $84.99) 19. A fast-working countertop ice maker that'll take care of the ice maker in the freezer running out of ice before you can get to it. It can make a glass of ice in 10–15 minutes so you never have to have lukewarm-instead-of-iced coffee again! Promising review: "We LOVE our ice machine! We used to spend a ton of money and time to stock up on Sonic-style ice. Now, we can make our own great-tasting, chewable Sonic ice without having to run across town and pay $3 a bag for it. Thank you!" — Chuck Price: $129.99 (originally $299; available in two finishes) 20. A gorgeous full-length light-up mirror because houses these days are ridiculously lacking in full-length mirrors. Now, your entire family can actually see for themselves if those pants match that shirt instead of depending on you. Promising review: "It's beautiful. I have been watching this mirror for a while, waiting for the price to go down, and when it finally got to a price I felt I could live with, I purchased it. FedEx delivered it in perfect condition, and it is absolutely beautiful! I'm so glad I finally bought it. The lighting is perfect, and the stand is really sturdy, so I do not have to hang it if I do not want to!" — Funckybear Price: $74.99+ (originally $199; available in two sizes and three shapes) You with everything you need thanks to the Walmart's Black Friday deals, ready to make parenting look easy. The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity. Need ingredients for all your new recipes? Shop each recipe directly through the app, or check out Walmart’s grocery selection to get veggies, meat, seafood, and more delivered right to your door.
[Source: Reuters] West Ham United eased the pressure on new manager Julen Lopetegui with a surprise 2-0 victory away to in-form Newcastle United in the Premier League. Thomas Soucek gave West Ham the lead in the 10th minute with a header and the visitors reached halftime still in front despite the hosts having a succession of good chances. Newcastle began the second half on top but were rocked on their heels when Aaron Wan-Bissaka broke forward to fire West Ham’s second after 53 minutes — his first goal for the club. West Ham grew in confidence and thoroughly deserved their best victory of what has been a disappointing season so far under Spaniard Lopetegui. They remain 14th place with 15 points while Newcastle are in 10th place with 18 points. Former Spain and Real Madrid manager Lopetegui’s style of play has struggled to win over West Ham’s fans and two poor performances before the international break left his side only three points above the relegation zone. Some media reports suggested Lopetegui was two games from losing his job but the his side responded with an energetic display and clinical display to send the away fans home happy. Had Newcastle not had an early goal by Alexander Isak ruled out for offside, it could have been a tough night for West Ham. But shortly afterwards, Soucek was left completely unmarked in a crowded penalty area to plant a header into the goal from a corner and West Ham were immediately galvanised. Newcastle, who had won three successive games in all competitions, should have levelled with Sean Longstaff heading a decent chance straight at West Ham keeper Lukasz Fabianski and Lewis Hall driving a shot across the face of the goal. Anthony Gordon also should have done better than to shoot straight at Fabianski after a defensive error while Isak volleyed a chance just wide after great work by Bruno Guimaraes. West Ham’s second goal took the sting completely out of the hosts. Wan-Bissaka made a powerful run forward from deep and was played in on goal by Bowen’s astute pass before placing his shot past Nick Pope and in off the post. Newcastle failed to muster much of a response as they missed the chance to move into sixth place.22yo’s ‘sick act’ as 80yo bf in hospital
Bargain supermarkets selling real Christmas trees from today – prices start from just £13.99Dibrugarh: State water resources minister Pijush Hazarika on Thursday announced an ambitious plan to revitalise natural water bodies and construct artificial reservoirs in Dibrugarh district as part of govt’s comprehensive flood management strategy . The initiative is a response to the district's recurring flood challenges during the monsoon season . The proposed network of natural and artificial reservoirs is expected to act as a crucial buffer system, helping regulate water levels and reduce the impact of heavy rainfall on urban areas. “Our primary focus is cleaning and restoring existing water bodies to enhance their capacity as natural reservoirs during the monsoon season. Additionally, we will create new artificial water bodies through strategic excavation to further strengthen our flood control infrastructure,” said Hazarika during an inspection of flood and erosion-affected areas of Dibrugarh. The minister, accompanied by Dibrugarh MLA Prasanta Phukan, Lahowal MLA Binod Hazarika and Assam Tourism Development Corporation chairman Rituparna Baruah, conducted a detailed assessment of the flood and erosion-affected areas. We also published the following articles recently Min unveils plans to revitalise lakes, create artificial reservoirs to tackle Dibrugarh floods Dibrugarh is implementing a new flood management strategy involving revitalizing natural water bodies and constructing artificial reservoirs. Water resources minister Pijush Hazarika, along with local MLAs, inspected flood-prone areas and announced the initiative. The project aims to enhance the district's flood control infrastructure and mitigate the impact of heavy monsoon rainfall. Rs 321cr project launched to strengthen Dibrugarhs flood defence Dibrugarh MLA Prasanta Phukan launched a Rs 321 crore anti-erosion project along the Brahmaputra riverbank, funded by the Asian Development Bank. The 8-km project from Chota Mothola to Mohanaghat will employ advanced technology, including geo-bags and concrete porcupines, to reinforce existing embankments and construct new ones. Dibrugarh villagers capture black panther Villagers in Dibrugarh, India, captured a black panther that had been terrorizing their livestock for over ten days. Using a hen as bait, they trapped the panther, nicknamed "Ghoong," in an iron cage. The panther, responsible for killing numerous goats and chickens, was captured early Saturday, bringing relief to the fearful community. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , and Mini Crossword .