Sandy Smith (left) and Laurie Buckhout (right) are vying for the Republican nomination to run against incumbent Don Davis in North Carolina’s First Congressional District.
Laurie Buckhout, a combat veteran running for office for the first time, won the Republican nomination in North Carolina’s 1st congressional District.
Buckhout defeated Sandy Smith, who was twice the Republican nominee in the Eastern North Carolina district. She will move on to face incumbent Democrat Don Davis in November’s general election.
The Associated Press called the election for Buckholt at 11:15 p.m. At that time, Buckholt was leading by a margin of 30,421 to 25,853 votes with 255 of 281 precincts reporting.
Both candidates ran on policies in step with those supported by former President Donald Trump.
Buckhout, a retired U.S. Army colonel, started a consulting firm after retiring from the service in 2010 but has since sold it. Buckhout, who lives in Edenton, ran on border security, anti-abortion and pro-gun policies.
In a speech to supporters in Edenton Tuesday night, Buckholt criticized Davis, blasting his support for President Joe Biden, who she blamed for recent inflation. Buckholt described being on the campaign trail and talking with people who had to choose between buying gas to get to work or buying groceries.
“Here in the 1st district of North Carolina, Joe Biden and the Biden agenda have one name and that’s Don Davis. Don Davis has enabled all of Biden’s failures and if you want more of the same failures, vote Don Davis,” Buckholt said.
Democrats started their attacks on Buckholt Tuesday as well.
“After spending a decade in Virginia after retiring from military service, she moved to North Carolina to run for office. Laurie is an anti-abortion extremist, insurrection apologist, and transplant opportunist only looking out for herself,” U.S. Rep Suzan DelBene, chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, said in a statement Tuesday.
Smith, the more experienced candidate, was the Republican nominee for the seat in 2020 and 2022. Both times, she lost to a Democrat.
Smith attended election denial events on Jan. 6, 2021 on the Washington Mall but previously told The News & Observer she did not enter the Capitol. Smith, who lives in Rocky Mount, has said her platform is anti-abortion, pro-gun, pro-military.
Davis is serving his first term in the U.S. House following the retirement of longtime Democratic Congressman G.K. Butterfield.
If Buckhout wins in the general election, she would become the first member of the GOP to represent the 1st congressional district since 1883.
Largely rural, the 1st congressional district runs along the Virginia border from Currituck County in the east to Vance County in the west, looping in Nash and Wilson counties before also drawing in Kinston and Goldsboro.
The district is widely expected to be the most competitive in the state after the N.C. General Assembly completed redistricting in October 2023.
“It’s the only competitive district in the state,” Chris Cooper, a political science professor at Western Carolina University, previously told The News & Observer.
The district’s voters have been somewhat fluid politically in recent elections, with 52% of those who voted casting ballots for Republican Ted Budd in the 2022 U.S. Senate race. That was a change from the 2020 U.S. Senate race, when voters narrowly went Democratic.
The district could also carry national significance, if control of the U.S. House of Representatives remains tightly contested.
A Buckholt victory could mean it will be more difficult for Davis to win re-election, Cook Political Report Executive Editor Amy Walters said during a Tuesday appearance on The New York Times’ The Run-Up podcast.
“If we’re talking about the House as being a battle of inches, then this is one of those inches,” Walter said.
Adam Wagner covers climate change and other environmental issues in North Carolina. His work is produced with financial support from the Hartfield Foundation and Green South Foundation, in partnership with Journalism Funding Partners, as part of an independent journalism fellowship program. Wagner’s previous work at The News & Observer included coverage of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout and North Carolina’s recovery from recent hurricanes. He previously worked at the Wilmington StarNews.
Ivan Cornejo RodeoHouston NRG Stadium March 3, 2024
Most RodeoHouston concerts start off with a bang. Literal explosions of colorful fireworks, a cacophony of music and noise, and brilliant flashes of lights fill the entire stage and arena.
Sunday evening’s Ivan Cornejo show was the exact opposite. In lieu of the traditional Rodeo concert video intro and pyrotechnic opening, the stage and house lights went dark, and everything was silent. The crowd wriggled in their seats with anticipation, finally letting go of a loud roaring applause when the name “Ivan Cornejo” appeared on the video boards.
After a few more minutes of silence, the spotlight shined bright on the young 19-year-old singer-songwriter from Riverside, California. He is one of the brightest new stars of the Corrido Tumbado movement, a segment of the Regional Mexicano genre that is experiencing a popularity surge over the last few years.
Cornejo is one of the brightest new stars of the Corrido Tumbado movement, a sub-genre of Regional Mexicano music.
Photo by Jennifer Lake
Not only was this Cornejo’s RodeoHouston debut, but it was also his first time performing in a stadium. He has been on his “Terapia” Tour since last August, and has been selling out venues, theaters, and arenas, including two sold-out shows at 713 Music Hall back on October.
Cornejo took to the stage in an all black charro outfit, decorated in gold glitter cacti, fireworks, and Mexican emblems. He strolled around the stage in black pants, shiny Stacy Adams dress shoes, and his signature headband.
“Como andamos, Houston?!” said Cornejo as he greeted his fans. His voice, movements, and overall demeanor are smooth, warm, and gentle. Throughout the evening he smiled wide and charmed the audience with his soft eyes. “I’m super grateful to be here tonight because Texas always shows love, especially Houston!” he continued.
Cornejo played two sold-out shows here in Houston back in October, and this was his RodeoHouston debut.
Photo by Jennifer Lake
Most of his set list was full of songs that could be considered as indie/emo, mostly about love and heartbreak, which actually translates perfectly to a country/western/rodeo setting. The crowd joined in by singing the lyrics to most songs, and did so loudly. All the fans who were featured on the video screens were singing passionately at the top of their lungs.
One of the definitive highlights of the show was when Cornejo and his band played a cover of “Desvelado” by Tejano legend Bobby Pulido. “We added our own little country twist to this cover!” he mentioned after finishing the track. It was absolutely delightful.
Ivan Cornejo played many fan favorites and a couple of covers during his RodeoHouston debut.
Photo by Jennifer Lake
‘Before I go, I would like to sing one last song, but please, turn on your flashlights” he requested from the large crowd. They obliged, and filed the room with dazzling lights. Connejo proceeded to sing “La Curiosidad,” one of his biggest hits from his 2022 album Dañado. The crowd went wild, and grooved and sang along at full volume. Near the end of the track, the music shifted into a Reggae cover of Bob Marley’s “Is This Love?” — a perfect ending to a beautiful set.
As the sun set outside NRG Stadium, Ivan then jumped onto the back of the Ford F-150 truck, armed with a bucket of red roses, and began to throw them one by one to his fans near the arena floor. A superstar in the making, riding off into the sunset.
Each week, join Dawn Vaughan for The News & Observer and NC Insider’s Under the Dome podcast, an in-depth analysis of topics in state government and politics for North Carolina.
Hello and welcome to your Under the Dome newsletter. Kyle Ingram here.
The primary election is on Tuesday and will set the electoral stage for November, shaping how North Carolina — a notorious swing state — could affect national politics.
Could NC split the ticket (again)?
On Tuesday, North Carolinians will decide who they want to run for the state’s highest office, but they’ll also have a say in who gets the nomination for president.
In 2020, the state voted for Republican Donald Trump in the presidential race, but also elected Roy Cooper, a Democrat, as governor.
That split could happen again in 2024 as presidential hopefuls set their sights on North Carolina.
President Joe Biden is likely to face off with Trump again in November. As for the governor’s race, Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson is the frontrunner for the Republican nomination and Attorney General Josh Stein is the likely Democratic nominee.
Issues like abortion are expected to dominate the race, following the state’s enactment of a 12-week abortion ban last year. But some political analysts say it won’t be the issues that determine who wins, at least at the national level, but rather the personalities of the candidates.
“You’ve got two older white guys from the Northeast, and everybody already knows exactly what they think about them,” Stephen Wiley, director of the House GOP Caucus, said. “And it’s a personality-driven election these days; that’s really what it comes down to.”
If you haven’t voted already, keep in mind that there are new rules at the polls this year.
Most notably, voters now need to show an ID to vote. A list of acceptable IDs can be found on the State Board of Elections website. Voters who don’t have an ID can fill out an ID exception form at the polling place.
If you’re voting by mail, your ballot needs to arrive at the county board of elections office by 7:30 p.m. on election day. Previously, mail-in ballots were counted if they arrived within three days of the election; a bill passed last year removed this grace period.
If you’re worried that your absentee ballot may not make it in time via mail, you can drop it off in-person at your local county board of elections office.
Be sure to read The News & Observer and The Charlotte Observer’s onlinecandidate questionnaires ahead of the primary election on Tuesday. Candidates’ answers appear online as part of our voter guide.
That’s all for today. Check your inbox on Tuesday for more #ncpol news.
Kyle Ingram is a politics reporter for the News & Observer. He reports on the legislature, voting rights and more in North Carolina politics. He is a graduate of the Hussman School of Journalism and Media at UNC-Chapel Hill.
LOS ANGELES — While the Northeast is getting hit the hardest, CDC officials say cases of norovirus, often called the “stomach flu,” continue to climb in California. It can spread quickly in enclosed spaces like schools, workplaces and cruise ships.
Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea – these norovirus symptoms can be painful. Earlier this month, over 150 people were stricken while on a cruise ship that docked in San Francisco. Once someone gets it, doctors describe just how quickly it can spread
“With norovirus, it’s sort of like wildfire,” said infectious disease specialist Dr. Daisy Dodd with Kaiser Permanente Orange County.
Contaminated food may be the most common way norovirus spreads, but she said it can also move quickly from person to person.
“The means of spread is what we call fecal oral. So from your tushy to your mouth,” Dodd said.
The virus can live on surfaces for weeks. The CDC says on the West Coast, nearly 13% of tests came back positive for norovirus. Annually, about 900 people die from this gastro-intestinal infection. The elderly, the immunocompromised and the very young are the most vulnerable.
“Children, if they get it, they can get dehydrated and very easily. The elderly can do the same thing. So hydration becomes the key to proper treatment,” she said.
There is no vaccine. And If you get sick, doctors say avoid anti-diarrheal medications.
“You’re going to prolong the agony because the virus is going to stay within you. And obviously the longer it stays within you, the more problems you’re going to have,” said Dodd.
She added – don’t rely on hand sanitizers. They’re not the most effective at killing norovirus. The best way to neutralize this bug is with soap.
“There’s something to do with soap breaking the cell of the germs and killing them. So that’s actually the best thing you know – wash your hands often,” she said.
Other tips from Dodd include sanitizing your cellphones and door handles. Wash your produce. Cook shellfish thoroughly. Stay home for about two or three days after you start feeling better, because you can still be shedding the virus.
Gambling in Canada is a popular activity, with a significant portion of the population engaging in some form of wagering, from buying lottery tickets to betting on sports events.
In this post, we’ll examine the habits, statistics, and trends shaping the Canadian gambling landscape. We aim to make the complexities of the gambling industry easy to grasp for everyone, regardless of their prior knowledge on the subject.
Who Gambles in Canada?
A staggering 75% of Canadians have dabbled in gambling. With a population of around 40 million people, this is no small number. This broad participation encompasses everything from casual lottery ticket purchases to more frequent casino visits.
Interestingly, lottery tickets emerge as the favored choice among gamblers, with a 65% participation rate. However, despite this widespread engagement, only a small fraction of the population, 2%, struggle with gambling problems.
How Much Is Spent on Gambling?
The Canadian gambling industry saw its market shrink to $12.54 billion in 2021. Ontario, with its vast population of gamblers, leads in both revenue and losses. Notably, the online gambling market is on an upswing and is projected to see user penetration soar to 51% by 2027.
What Are the Preferred Forms of Gambling?
Lottery Tickets: Dominating the gambling scene with a 65% participation rate.
Sports Betting: Accounts for 7.9% of gambling activities, with a notable skew towards male participants.
For those curious about the best-paying online casinos in Canada, comprehensive lists and analyses are the best method for shedding light on this. Finding out where players can find the most favorable payout rates and what makes these sites stand out in terms of returns is crucial. Make sure to choose wisely which one has the best option, so you can be sure you’re heading to the right place.
Trends and Changes
The gambling sector is not static; it evolves with societal and technological shifts. During lockdown periods, for instance, 17% of gamblers switched to online platforms. This migration underscores the growing appeal and accessibility of internet-based gambling options.
Key Statistics and Insights
Gambling Revenue and Market Size
Ontario’s Lead: As the gambling hotspot of Canada, Ontario’s large gambler population significantly contributes to its revenue and losses.
Market Size: The entire sector was valued at $12.54 billion in 2021, indicating the substantial economic footprint of gambling in Canada.
Sports Betting and Online Gambling
Sports Betting Landscape: While it makes up 7.9% of gambling activities, a significant 57% of its revenue in 2019 came from non-regulated entities.
Online Gambling Growth: Expected to expand significantly, reaching a 51% user penetration rate by 2027.
The Impact of Gambling
Problem Gambling: Affecting 2% of Canadians 15 and older, problem gambling remains a critical issue, with those afflicted losing an average of over $500,000 annually.
Indigenous Communities: These communities report higher rates of gambling participation and related problems.
Financial Aspects
Casino Revenue: Canadians spent a whopping $17 billion in casinos across the country.
Illegal Betting: An estimated $10 billion is spent on single sporting events through illegal channels.
Indigenous Communities and Gambling
The higher rates of gambling participation and problem gambling in Indigenous communities call for culturally sensitive and accessible support services.
Understanding the unique challenges faced by these communities is essential in developing effective prevention and treatment programs.
The Digital Transformation
The digital transformation of gambling has broadened access and introduced new forms of gaming, such as eSports betting and virtual casinos.
These innovations offer exciting opportunities but also present new challenges, particularly in terms of regulation and the prevention of underage gambling. Ensuring that digital platforms operate within a framework that promotes fairness and protects users from harm is paramount.
The Economic Impact
Gambling is a significant economic driver in Canada, with billions spent in casinos and on other gambling activities annually. The sector’s contribution to the economy is substantial, providing jobs, revenue, and investments in public projects. However, the economic benefits must be balanced with the social costs, particularly the impact on individuals and families affected by problem gambling.
Regulation and the Future
As the gambling industry continues to evolve, so too must the regulatory framework that governs it. Ensuring a fair, safe, and responsible gambling environment requires ongoing collaboration between regulators, operators, and the community.
The challenge lies in adapting to technological advancements, changing consumer habits, and the growing online market, all while protecting those most at risk.
Economic Contributions vs. Social Costs
The gambling industry’s contributions to the Canadian economy are significant, from generating tax revenue to creating employment opportunities. However, the social costs of problem gambling can offset these benefits.
A balanced perspective is necessary to ensure that the economic advantages do not come at the expense of individuals’ well-being. Policies and practices that prioritize responsible gambling can help achieve this balance.
Responsible Gambling Initiatives
Responsible gambling initiatives are crucial in mitigating the risks associated with gambling. These include setting limits on bets, time spent gambling, and providing clear information on the odds of winning.
Equally important are the programs designed to identify and assist those showing signs of problem gambling. Initiatives like these not only help individuals but also serve to maintain the integrity and social acceptability of the gambling industry.
FAQs
How Does Gambling Affect the Canadian Economy?
Gambling contributes significantly to the Canadian economy, generating billions in revenue. However, it also poses challenges, particularly when considering the losses incurred by individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
Who Gambles More, Men or Women?
Men are more inclined towards sports betting, with 12% participating in 2018. However, lottery tickets, a popular choice among all gamblers, do not show a significant gender disparity in participation rates.
What’s Being Done About Problem Gambling?
Efforts to address problem gambling include awareness campaigns, support services, and regulatory measures aimed at protecting vulnerable populations. The challenge is balancing economic benefits with social responsibilities.
Can tourists participate in gambling activities in Canada?
Yes, tourists can participate in gambling activities, including visiting casinos and buying lottery tickets, just like Canadian residents.
How does Canada compare to the United States regarding gambling participation rates?
Canada has a higher percentage of the population participating in gambling compared to the United States, with differences in regulatory environments and available gambling options.
Are there any restrictions on advertising gambling in Canada?
Yes, there are restrictions on advertising gambling in Canada, aimed at protecting vulnerable groups and ensuring advertisements are not misleading.
Concluding Thoughts
Gambling in Canada is at a crossroads, with the potential for growth and innovation balanced by the need for responsible governance and support for those affected by gambling problems.
As we move forward, the focus must remain on creating a sustainable and ethical gambling industry that benefits the economy, respects the well-being of participants, and addresses the challenges of problem gambling with compassion and effectiveness.
On Leap Years, an extra day is added to the calendar: Feb. 29.
mbbirdy
Getty Images
If you had an extra 24 hours to do whatever you want in Charlotte, how would you spend it? It’s a leap year, so we just happen to get a leap day on Thursday, Feb. 29.
In reality, we know your boss is most likely going to steal a good chunk of that time away from you. (Bummer!) But if you happen to be free — or you want to celebrate after work — we have ideas.
We’ve recently been blessed with an explosion of Charlotteans on reality TV, and it’s hard to keep up with it all, especially with new episodes yet to come. Why not use leap day to do a little bed rotting and catch up?
Here are a few stories to get you started — but watch out for spoilers:
“The Bachelor”
Season 28, featuring Madina Alam of Charlotte, is streaming now on ABC.com and Hulu. New episodes drop on Mondays.
Going back further, Season 27 starred Kylee Russell of Charlotte, who then went on to star on “The Bachelor in Paradise.” (See below.)
“The Bachelor in Paradise”
Russell planned a move out of Charlotte last month after her appearance on “The Bachelor in Paradise,” streaming now on ABC.com and Hulu.
“The Bachelorette”
Season 27’s Charity Lawson, a Georgia woman with Charlotte ties who was on Season 27th of “The Bachelor,” became “The Bachelorette.” It’s streaming now on ABC.com and Hulu.
“Love is Blind”
Season 6, filmed in Charlotte, is now streaming on Netflix, with new episodes dropping Wednesday, Feb. 28.
Going back further, Kenny Barnes of Charlotte starred in season 1.
“Survivor”
Season 46, featuring Charlotte hair-salon owner Kenzie Petty, premieres Wednesday, Feb. 28 on CBS and Paramount+.
“The Ultimatum, Marry or Move on”
Season 2 was set in Charlotte, and you can stream episodes on Netflix.
Eat good food and get good deals
A handful of restaurants are offering Leap Day deals to celebrate the extra day. Here are a few:
Chipotle is celebrating Leap Day with a free guacamole offer for Chipotle Rewards members who use code EXTRA24 at checkout on the Chipotle app and Chipotle.com.
Location: Multiple, including Charlotte, Huntersville, Fort Mill/Indian Land, Gastonia, Rock Hill and Mooresville
On Leap Day, you can pay $29 for a $50 gift card. You can’t use it that day, but you can make a second stop in to eat salads, wings, burgers and more at a steep discount.
Hickory Tavern is celebrating Leap Year with a gift card offer. Hickory Tavern
Tiff’s Treats is offering a Leap Day birthday giveaway to celebrate those whose birthdays come only once every four years. People with a Feb. 29 birthday can enter to win a special birthday cookie delivery.
Get some exercise
Extra time can allow you to break out of your routine and try a new workout. We recently explored some of the city’s most luxurious fitness facilities — including one with a spa — and have also curated a running guide for those of you who like to hit the pavement.
Life Time amenities include areas where you can lift weights on your own or take a strength-focused class. Life Time Athletic Charlotte
Plan a trip
What’s a fantasy vacation day without a little daydreaming? You can browse these stories for inspiration and ideas.
This story was originally published February 26, 2024, 10:15 AM.
Heidi Finley is a writer and editor for CharlotteFive and the Charlotte Observer. Outside of work, you will most likely find her in the suburbs driving kids around, volunteering and indulging in foodie pursuits. Support my work with a digital subscription
Nikki Haley leaves a campaign stop in Camden on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024
Tracy Glantz
tglantz@thestate.com
COLUMBIA, S.C.
After being flattened by Donald Trump in her home state primary, Nikki Haley is now 0-for-5 in 2024 Republican presidential nominating contests.
And yet over the next week, she’s scheduled to campaign in another six states, beginning in Michigan, where she is likely to endure another emphatic defeat on Tuesday by a margin even larger than her South Carolina loss.
Considerable financial resources are allowing Haley to soldier on, but the long-term cost may be a viable future for her inside a Trump-first Republican Party. Her pledge to “campaign until the last person votes” without a realistic path for victory suggests she’s come to terms with it.
“As it relates to her future in politics, I’m skeptical she has one, at least in today’s GOP,” said Jason Cabel Roe, a Detroit-based Republican consultant. “She more closely resembles the Bush-neocon-big business GOP than the modern populist GOP.”
Even if Trump is struck by lightning or sent to prison as a result of one of his criminal trials and a contested GOP convention unfolds at the Republican National Convention this summer, “there’s a better shot a Ron DeSantis could get it than a Nikki Haley,” Terry Sullivan, the GOP consultant who ran Marco Rubio’s 2016 presidential bid, said on a Puck podcast this week. “Because right now she’s just hurting herself with the base.”
Haley’s willingness to shrug off bruising home-state repudiation also speaks to the nationalization of all modern politics. With voters more loyal to sweeping movements and galvanizing ideologies that cross state borders, Haley has morphed into the last woman willing to sound the alarm on the political risk Trump poses to her party, despite abundant early polling showing his strength against President Biden.
Haley’s crusade now, revealed candidly by her campaign manager Betsy Ankney on a Friday Zoom call with the press, is about showcasing how Trump can’t win a general election.
If not Never Trump, it’s close to Not Trump.
“He will not defeat Joe Biden in November and he will drag the entire Republican ticket down with him,” Ankney proclaimed. “If Trump is the nominee, the House is gone.”
There’s a long history of candidates revising their assessments of their rivals once the primary has concluded. Trump’s campaign believes Haley will “kiss ass when she quits” and sign on with the former president who named her ambassador to the United Nations.
Even under the most generous circumstances for Haley, Trump’s campaign has projected he’ll have the delegates necessary to clinch the GOP nomination by March 19.
So while Haley is girded for battle through March 5th’s Super Tuesday – when 15 states and American Samoa cast ballots – she’ll face another inflection point on the purpose of her candidacy once Trump hits the magic number of delegates in mid-March.
Thirty-two years ago, Republican firebrand Pat Buchanan continued his 1992 campaign even after acknowledging President George Bush had amassed the delegates needed to be the GOP nominee by mid March. But Buchanan toned down his anti-Bush rhetoric and eventually turned his fire on Democrats in a rip-roaring convention speech.
On the Democratic side, Jerry Brown stayed in the race as an alternative to Bill Clinton through the national convention. The national exposure didn’t ever land him the presidency, but propelled him back into the governorship of California.
These could serve as models for Haley, who has built a large national network of supporters, volunteers and donors she could tap for a future endeavor inside or outside of politics.
“It allows her and her campaign to build connections on the grassroots level in state after state. If you bail out early, you just don’t go through those exercises in recruiting volunteers and paying county leaders across the country, and sort of team bank and phone captains,” said Timothy Head, executive director of the Faith and Freedom Coalition. “This is the first time she has raised really large amounts of money from national donors. It also gives her prolonged exposure and bonding to a lot of those donors who probably … have experienced some pause with Donald Trump.”
Trump is the only person who may hold more sway over Haley’s future than the former South Carolina governor herself. Political survival in the modern Republican Party nearly requires making penance with Trump.
Just listen to Rep. Nancy Mace, a former Trump critic who now faces a Low Country primary herself.
“We should question any Republican not supporting Donald Trump, question their motives. There’s no reason for us to continue to take shots at Donald Trump when he’s going to be the nominee,” Mace told right-wing media outlet One America News on Saturday.
Trump has made peace with countless rivals before, once they pledge their allegiance and unflinching loyalty. Haley’s bigger problem might be his unrelenting ecosystem of adherents.
“She’s done as a Republican after this and she doesn’t care,” tweeted Newsmax anchor Rob Schmitt. “She’ll be a mainstream staple, sell out the country, be rich & popular.”
David Catanese is a national political correspondent for McClatchy in Washington. He’s covered campaigns for more than a decade, previously working at U.S. News & World Report and Politico. Prior to that he was a television reporter for NBC affiliates in Missouri and North Dakota. You can send tips, smart takes and critiques to dcatanese@mcclatchydc.com.
Javon L. Harris is a politics and legislative reporter for The State. He is a graduate of the University of Florida and the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. Before coming to South Carolina, Javon covered breaking news, local government and social justice for The Gainesville Sun in Florida. Support my work with a digital subscription
Many of the conditions that cultivate a robust wildflower season seem to be happening this year. While generous rainfall means more flowers, when they bloom depends on when we start getting warmer days.
DAVID MONTESINO
dmontesino@star-telegram.com
Nothing says spring has sprung in Texas with a prettier flourish than fields full of bluebonnet blooms, and according to experts at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin, this season will not disappoint.
“On a scale from one to 10, this year looks like it could be an eight, for bluebonnets in particular, if not even better,” says Andrea DeLong-Amaya, the Center’s Director of Horticulture. “This fall and winter we’ve enjoyed adequate rainfall that’s been well-spaced, which is really key to wildflower development.”
And the drought conditions we experienced during the oppressive heat of last year’s summer withered the competition from plant species in the wild, said Matt O’Toole, Director of Land Management for the Wildflower Center.
“When we have extreme weather the prior summer, we see some plant mortality, which reduces competition in the soil and creates space for spring blooming wildflowers,” O’Toole said.
Many of the conditions that cultivate a robust wildflower season seem to be happening this year. While generous rainfall means more flowers, when they bloom depends on when we start getting warmer days.
Bluebonnets grow in the wild all over Texas, but the state seeds bluebonnets along highways which helps reduce maintenance costs because native wildflower species need less mowing and care. DAVID MONTESINO dmontesino@star-telegram.com
Bluebonnets get their name from the flower’s individual bloom’s resemblance to the sunbonnets women wore to guard against the grueling Texas sun. DAVID MONTESINO dmontesino@star-telegram.com
Contrary to various folk stories and legends claiming that the plant originated outside the state, bluebonnets are native to Texas, according to the Texas State Historical Association. DAVID MONTESINO dmontesino@star-telegram.com
So, what are bluebonnets and where they did come from?
The purple blooms are the pride of Texas, adopted by the 27th Texas Legislature as the state flower on March 7, 1901. Bluebonnets get their name from the flower’s individual bloom’s resemblance to the sunbonnets women wore to guard against the grueling Texas sun.
“The Bluebonnet is to Texas what the shamrock is to Ireland, the cherry blossom to Japan, the lily to France, the rose to England and the tulip to Holland,” historian Jack Maguire wrote. “It’s not only the state flower but also a kind of floral trademark almost as well known to outsiders as cowboy boots and the Stetson hat.”
Local lore suggests the lupines were brought over to the New World by Spanish priests because observers noticed how the priests would care for the blooms around mission houses. But American Indian mythology contradicts that telling, planting the beautiful bluebonnets front-and-center in the telling of their stories and referring to the blooms as “a gift from the Great Spirit,” according to the Texas State Historical Association.
The blooms thrive on poor, rocky soil under a full sun, which is why they thrive in Texas on pastures that have been heavily grazed, experienced recent fires and land that have been mown, such as roadsides.
Where are the best places in Texas to see bluebonnet blooms?
A drive down to the Texas Hill Country is a must for shutterbugs looking for spectacular purple blooms of bluebonnets. David Montesino dmontesino@star-telegram.com
In North Texas, finding bluebonnets is as easy as driving most highways or a detour into nearby rural farm towns. Really. It’s that simple. But if you’re looking for an awe-inspiring excursion with the purple blooms as your star, here are seven places that need to be on your must-visit itinerary. Do not leave your camera at home. It will be a shutterbug’s paradise.
1. Kingsland
Each spring, this town nestled near Llano explodes in bluebonnet blooms that can last for two months. Follow a trail of the flowers from Llano to Kingsland on Texas 29, then south on Ranch Road 1431. This peaceful town is not typically flooded with tourists, making it an ideal spot to view the pretty purple blooms.
2. Marble Falls
This picturesque town on the Colorado River is where you will find President Lyndon B. Johnson’s ranch. Marble Falls takes pride in this, extolling the fact the when Lady Bird Johnson, the wife of the 36th president of the United States, planted bluebonnet seeds across America, they love to point out that they got a little more love in the process. ts proximity to Kingsland and Burnet makes for a convenient trio of stops.
3. Burnett
Recognized as the “Bluebonnet Capital of Texas,” Burnet is a must-visit. Its annual Bluebonnet Festival, held from April 12-14, is a major attraction. Thousands converge on this Hill Country hamlet on the intersection of Texas 29 and U.S. 281 each spring, mostly because of the bluebonnets.
4. Brenham
This town in Washington County is located in the heart of bluebonnet country. The town watches for the first signs of the purple blooms, anticipating a spring full of flowers. Brenham is located halfway between Houston and Austin, and is known for its picturesque countryside and charming historic downtown.
5. Ennis
Only an hour drive from Fort Worth, Ennis is a convenient destination for folks from the Metroplex looking to view bluebonnets. The town is home to the Ennis Bluebonnet Trail and Festival, Ennis. The Ennis Garden Club meticulously tracks flower growth, making it a reliable source of bluebonnet sightings.
6. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Austin
This wildflower park is home to nearly 900 species of native Texas wildflowers and plants. The Center also offers educational programs for adults and children.
7. Big Bend National Park
Though not on the traditional Texas bluebonnet trail, Big Bend National Park offers a unique bluebonnet experience. The tallest of the bluebonnet species is named after the area: Big Bend bluebonnet, Lupinus havardii. It grows thickly along the park’s paved roads. We may see a superbloom this year, which could paint the hillsides blue.
Related stories from Fort Worth Star-Telegram
I am the Service Team Editor at the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. My team of reporters answer reader questions about life in North Texas including how the weather affects our lives, Texas history and everything in between.
DENVER — There is a hole on a section of the Lincoln Street bridge over Cherry Creek, between 6th and 7th Aves., the City of Denver said Wednesday.
Denver7
Two right lanes of traffic are closed for the Denver Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) to repair the hole. That includes one bus-only lane and one of the two left turn lanes from 6th Ave. eastbound onto Lincoln Street northbound.
This is just one of two DOTI travel advisories downtown Denver drivers should know about this week.
Part of Champa Street will also temporarily close this week to re-align lanes, the agency announced in a news release Wednesday.
The lanes on Champa Street were moved in the spring of 2021 to make room for construction cranes working on the Colorado Convention Center expansion.
The work added an 80,000 square foot multipurpose room, outdoor terrace and other spaces on top of the existing convention center building. The Colorado Convention Center is expected to host its first event in March.
With the completion of that project, the cranes have been removed, so the traffic lanes will be moved back to where they were before the construction began, DOTI said.
To make the change, crews will close all of Champa Street between 14th Street and Speer Boulevard Friday through Monday.
There are signs on the roads warning drivers who normally take this route to find an alternative.
Denver 7+ Colorado News Latest Headlines | February 15, 7am
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Bally Sports will remain the home of the Rangers for the 2024 season with plans to air 153 regular season games in addition to four spring training games, Bally Sports and its parent company Diamond Sports Group announced Monday.
The regular season total is subject to change if the Rangers were to receive additional nationally televised games.
Bally Sports is in the midst of bankruptcy proceedings which made it unclear if the Rangers would continue to be aired on the Network. Especially with recent announcements that Amazon Prime had invested in Bally Sports and would gain the right to stream games from the NBA, MLB, NHL on Amazon Prime for teams under contract to Bally Sports.
The network has the right to broadcast the Dallas Stars, Dallas Mavericks and Texas Rangers along with 30 other professional sports teams across 18 networks.
Bally Sports has been difficult to watch for fans in the Metroplex since 2020 due to fee disputes with streaming providers like YouTube TV and Hulu which dropped Bally Sports.
For fans in Fort Worth who want to watch the Rangers on Bally Sports, they have four options: DirecTV, DirecTV Stream, Fubo and Spectrum.
Bally Sports will start airing Rangers games at 8 p.m. on March 16 with Texas’ spring training game against the Cincinnati Reds.
Lawrence Dow is a digital sports reporter from Philadelphia. He graduated with a Master’s degree in journalism from USC. He’s passionate about movies and is always looking for a great book. He covers the Texas Rangers and other sports.
Chicago Public Schools is proposing changes to its 2024-25 academic year calendar to accommodate the city’s logistical and public safety needs during the Democratic National Convention in August, the district said Thursday.
CPS suggested starting classes on Monday, Aug. 26 – one week later than usual – after the Aug. 19-22 convention wraps up.
Chicago will host the Democratic National Convention at the United Center on the West Side, with more than 75,000 visitors expected to descend upon Chicago during the week.
Police and public safety officials expect to be busy as the convention brings the national spotlight to the city as it continues grappling with gun violence, protests over the Israel-Hamas war and the ongoing migrant crisis.
In the past week, Chicago schools have faced three students shot and killed by gunfire after leaving school for the day.
On Friday, two teens were fatally shot in an “ambush” attack after leaving their high school in the Loop. Less than a week later, three Senn High School students between 15 and 16 were walking just east of the school when gunmen inside a vehicle got out and opened fire toward the teens, killing one of them. Police do not believe the two incidents to be related.
The change would extend the fall semester one week after winter break into January and extend spring classes one week into June 2025.
The proposal will only affect the 2024-25 academic year, with the 2025-26 year to return to a similar calendar format as the 2023-24 year, according to an emailed statement from the school district.
Parents are encouraged to submit feedback to CPS on the proposed changes before Feb. 7.
When I first saw the name Turnip Boy Robs a Bank, I had no idea what to expect. I hadn’t played or seen anything about the first game, Turnip Boy Commits Tax Evasion, so I didn’t even know what genre or art style to anticipate.
As soon as I opened the Game Pass page I was intrigued. Although I’ve never played Hotline Miami myself, I could immediately recognize the inspiration while still clearly seeing the humor that was going to make this game unique right off the bat. After all, I couldn’t expect anything other than humor for a game named Turnip Boy Robs a Bank.
Image Source: Graffiti Games
Immediately, I was hooked on just how silly it is. Having not played the first game and only having read about what it entailed, I enjoyed the brisk recap of Turnip Boy having slain a god, committing tax evasion and starting a civil war, and I was ready to jump right into the action — of which there is plenty.
It took me a little while to get used to the twin-stick controls, but the pace of the game is forgiving enough to let new players gain their bearings. Not only do the enemies not come at you relentlessly, but you get so many chances to go back into the bank and figure out where things are that it doesn’t feel like you’re being punished for making a mistake.
Turnip Boy Robs a Bank is a rogue-lite in its nature, with the progression carrying with you over the course of many runs through the bank. You’ve got to purchase upgrades for everything from the likelihood of finding better weapons to the amount of money that you can carry each time you go in, and as you go you get to meet the diverse range of Fruitfolk who await you every step of the way.
Image Source: Graffiti Games
Those Fruitfolk are the ones that will actually give you quests, and that structure is one of the big things that keeps me coming back. You can head into the run and have five different Fruitfolk ask you for favors or need you to do something for them, which can provide incentive for continuing to progress further through the game.
Whenever I play a roguelike or rogue-lite, I find myself immediately comparing it to Hades. I loved Hades mostly for the story, but the gameplay was also fantastic and the progression felt natural and well-paced. When it comes to the story in Turnip Boy Robs a Bank, there’s not as much that’s driving you toward the end goal, so more of the heavy lifting is done by the gameplay itself.
The time limit on each run in TBRaB makes for an interesting dynamic compared to games like Hades or Hotline Miami because you’ve got to plan every second out so much more carefully. That plays brilliantly with the fact that you’re going from task to task, ticking things off of your list because each time you leave the warehouse, you’ve got to have a plan in mind for where you want to be and what you want to accomplish.
Not only that, but the timer makes it feel like less of a time commitment than games like Hades, where a run can take upwards of 15 minutes depending on how you play. Sure, you can keep playing Turnip Boy after the timer runs out and the cops start swarming you but once you fill up on money it can be a good reset point to just head back to the warehouse and start again.
Image Source: Graffiti Games
I can’t get into the things that hooked me on TBRaB without talking about the music as well. From the moment you open the title screen, you’re met with some beats that are designed to get you hyped for any heist, and the rest of the game continues the trend. You can unlock more music as you play and earn, and you can then go into your phone and choose what music you want to be playing at any point in time, which is a great little touch.
When I look at Turnip Boy Robs a Bank in the context of the rest of the market, it’s interesting to see where it falls alongside games like Risk of Rain or Dead Cells. Being on Game Pass with Dead Cells means that more people might have the opportunity to play it, but it might not have enough behind it to drive it to the same level of recognition that games like Enter the Gungeon have received.
Even though it’s early in the year, I feel like Turnip Boy is still going to be at the top of my list by the end of 2024. I’m always on the lookout for great roguish games that I can suck myself into, and Turnip Boy managed to do so in one of the most approachable ways I’ve seen in some time. Now it’s up to Go Mecha Ball to see if it can keep the (forgive me) ball rolling.
About the author
Nick Rivera
Nick Rivera graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 2021 studying Digital Media and started as a Freelance Writer with Twinfinite in early 2023. Nick plays anything from Halo to Stardew Valley to Peggle, but is a sucker for a magnetic story.
Staking my claim on 2024. First new podcast episode!
My biggest goal of the year is to get my friend’s book published.
Listen to learn more about my motivations, strategy, gameplan, and potential future.
I’ll keep you guys updated on the progress of this goal as we get further into the year.
If all goes well, I’ll be announcing our big accomplishment in a future episode. If we don’t succeed, then none of this ever happened…
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My Timeline – My goal timeline for the year, including a breakdown of the goals mentioned in the podcast (plus other ambitions).
Goals Timeline (PDF) – Create your own goal timeline for the next day, week, month, year, and decade. This is the most important exercise you’ll ever do.
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The ceremony, which celebrates the best in TV and streaming each year, was initially scheduled to take place in September. But organizers were forced to push the date back due to strikes by writers and actors in Hollywood.
The man hoping to dodge a repeat and find the humor as Emmys host? Anthony Anderson, the 53-year-old funnyman known for films including “Kangaroo Jack” and TV shows like “Black-ish” and “Law & Order: SVU.”
Here’s what you should know ahead of Monday night.
What time are the Emmys?
The Emmys are set to begin Jan. 15 at 8 p.m. ET. The three-hour ceremony will be broadcast live from the Peacock Theater, a modern 7,100-seat venue in downtown Los Angeles.
Those looking to scope out the fashions and catch off-the-cuff comments can tune in for red carpet coverage from 5-8 p.m.
What channel will air the Emmys?
Fox is broadcasting the ceremony, which will land on Hulu on the following day. The “Countdown to the Emmys” red carpet coverage airs on E!, which will also feature an “Emmys After Party” special at 11 p.m.
Why is it so late?
With thousands of screenwriters and actors on strike last summer, the organizers of the Emmys decided to push the ceremony into the new year.
The strike by the Writers Guild of America, a screenwriters’ union, lasted until September, while a separate stoppage by the SAG-AFTRA actors’ union dragged into November.
It’s the first time the Emmys had a significant rescheduling since 2001, when the 9/11 terrorist attacks caused the ceremony to move to November.
In 2020, the Emmys went on as scheduled despite COVID — in a mostly virtual format. A mannequin dressed in a hazmat suit stood guard over the trophies that year.
What has host Anthony Anderson said?
Hosting an awards show is a tricky gig, something Koy learned quickly at the Golden Globes. At one point in his monologue, the comedian erupted at the audience.
“Yo, I got the gig 10 days ago,” Koy said. “You want a perfect monologue? Yo, shut up. You’re kidding me, right? Slow down.”
“I wanted it to happen years ago, but everything happens when it’s supposed to happen,” Anderson told the outlet. “So, I’m really excited.”
On Monday, Anderson plans to employ an “unconventional plan for keeping things moving,” using his mother as an enforcer to usher off award recipients giving long-winded speeches, an Emmys statement said.
Before he hits the stage, though, Anderson’s selection has already stirred a bit of controversy: Some have noted he has faced sexual assault allegations in the past, which he denies.
What to watch for
The series predicted to take home trophies on Monday include “Succession,” the Brian Cox-led show loosely based on Fox News and the Murdoch family; “The Last of Us,” a gloomy zombie drama set after a pandemic far more devastating than COVID; and “The White Lotus,” a booze-infused anthology that traveled to an Italian resort this season.
“Succession,” which wrapped its series run last year, leads the way with a total of 27 nominations. “The Last of Us” picked up 24, while “The White Lotus” nabbed 23.
“Ted Lasso,” the Jason Sudeikis comedy about an American football coach who moves to England to coach soccer, could find some redemption after failing to score hardware at the Golden Globes. It received 21 nominations.
In a statement, Frank Scherma, chair of the Television Academy, which puts on the Emmys, hailed “another year of extraordinary content.”
“We are honored to recognize those who have elevated the world’s favorite global medium,” he added.
Gear up for a list of adrenaline-packed gaming experiences as we dive into the world of first-person shooters set to dominate the new year! There are tons of FPS games releasing in 2024, but this list will only be covering the best of the best.
From futuristic warfare to classic battlefields, this year’s lineup boasts an array of shooters and FPS games that promise to deliver unparalleled thrills. Stay on the edge of your seat as we unveil the top must-have titles that will undoubtedly redefine the genre in 2024!
ALARA Prime
Image Source: Fall Damage via IGDB
Step into the intense battlegrounds of ALARA Prime, a cutting-edge tactical first-person shooter that pits teams of four against each other in a thrilling 4v4v4 format! With an array of diverse classes to choose from, an entire arsenal of gadgets, and numerous teams to go up against at once, players will have to watch their backs as they navigate through the game’s numerous interactable environments.
ALARA Prime will be free-to-play and is set to release on PC sometime in 2024. Being a free online multiplayer, you won’t even have to worry about breaking out your wallet for this shooter; just having an internet connection and a computer will be more than enough!
Graven (Full Release)
Image Source: Slipgate Ironworks via IGDB
Prepare to be immersed in the haunting world of Graven, an eagerly anticipated dark fantasy first-person shooter. Developed by Slipgate Ironworks, Graven promises players an immersive journey through a realm of medieval fantasy elements, nostalgic late-90s aesthetics, and what Slipgate Ironworks likes to call “Eldritch perversions”.
Graven was originally released for early access back in 2021, but it’s finally getting its full release in 2024! With its atmospheric design and innovative gameplay, this upcoming title is set to redefine the boundaries of the first-person shooter genre, offering players a unique and thrilling experience in the realm of dark fantasy.
ASSAULT SECTOR
Image Source: Frag Pulse Ltd via Steam
You’d better believe that a game with a name like “ASSAULT SECTOR” is going to be one of the greatest FPS games releasing in 2024. ASSAULT SECTOR (yes, its name is in all caps) is a PvP arena shooter that was designed with old-school FPS games in mind; it’s got all of the classic shooter mechanics you know and love with all the modern graphics and gameplay!
Even the game’s developers described ASSAULT SECTOR as “a throwback to a golden-era of classic FPS Games”, so if you’re a veteran of the genre, you’ll probably fall head over heels for this game. ASSAULT SECTOR doesn’t have an official release date yet, but it’s expected to be released sometime this year.
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl
Image Source: GSC Game World via IGDB
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is, by far, one of the most highly anticipated FPS games releasing in 2024. This game really has it all: a wicked arsenal of insane weapons, a vast array of nasty mutants to use for target practice, and an atmosphere so thick you could cut it with a knife — what’s not to love??
S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is the next-gen sequel to the immensely popular video game franchise developed by GSC Game World. In addition to its shooter gameplay and FPS mechanics, this game boasts multiple endings, a non-linear narrative, an open-world design, official mod support, and more!
Gray Zone Warfare
Image Source: MADFINGER Games via IGDB
If you’re a major fan of FPS games, then Gray Zone Warfare is probably already at the top of your wishlist. This game is an immersive shooter with an extreme focus on realism. If you’ve ever felt like the vast majority of FPS games out there are just too cheesy for their own good, then you’ve found your perfect match with Gray Zone Warfare!
Gray Zone Warfare allows players to fight against fellow human operators or intelligent AI-controlled enemies. Players can enlist in a private military company and explore a sprawling open-world environment either solo or with a squad; whether you like playing single-player or with a group, Gray Zone Warfare has you covered.
Deep Rock Galactic: Rogue Core (Early Access)
Image Source: Ghost Ship Games via IGDB
Embark on a thrilling cooperative adventure with Deep Rock Galactic: Rogue Core, a first-person shooter designed for 1-4 players! This game is bound to be a banger for Deep Rock Galactic fans and FPS lovers alike.
Deep Rock Galactic: Rogue Core features 100% destructible environments and endless procedurally-generated caves, meaning there’s no limit to the amount of destruction and untold chaos that players can cause. This game will officially be available via early access on Steam in November 2024. If you want to experience one of the greatest FPS games releasing in 2024, if not ever, then you seriously need to add this one to your wishlist.
Payday 3: Fear and Greed (DLC)
Image Source: Starbreeze Studios via IGDB
Many fans of the Payday game series likely remember Payday 3’s release back in 2023, but what they might not know is that it’s getting a brand-new DLC, Fear and Greed, in 2024. In fact, Fear and Greed is actually only one of a few DLCs that’ll be dropping in 2024, but it’s definitely the most highly-anticipated out of all of them.
Not much is known yet about the Fear and Greed DLC, other than that it’s going to be the biggest and baddest Payday 3 DLC yet. It’s not expected to be released until the tail end of 2024, but if the rumors are to be believed, it’s going to be well worth the wait!
The Burst
Image Source: GoRapid Studio via IGDB
Gear up for an adrenaline-fueled virtual reality experience with The Burst, an intense high-speed VR shooter that puts you in the boots of a spec ops operative! This VR shooter promises fast-paced action as you navigate through its immersive world, tackling challenges and adversaries with precision and firepower.
The Burst is set to be released right in the middle of 2024 and will be available exclusively on the Meta Quest 2 and SteamVR. This may come as a bummer to non-VR players, but that just means there’s never been a better time to start getting into VR!
Robobeat
Image Source: Simon Fredholm via IGDB
Get ready to unleash a rhythm-infused frenzy in Robobeat, a PC shooter that’s all set to redefine the FPS genre! Players must take on the role of Ace, a flashy bounty hunter on a heart-pounding mission to capture a rogue robot in his ever-shifting lair. With adrenaline-pumping gameplay, use your shooting skills to wall run, slide, and shoot to the game’s electrifying beat!
If you’re stuck in a first-person shooter rut and are tired of seeing the same old concepts rehashed over and over again, then you seriously need to consider giving Robobeat a shot (pun intended)! Robobeat is the perfect marriage between rhythm and FPS; if this game doesn’t reignite your love for shooters, then nothing will.
Image Source: Free Lives Games via IGDB
We’re ending this list off with a big, smelly bang with Anger Foot! Anger Foot is a fast-paced FPS game that promises a pulse-pounding experience of kicking doors, kicking ass, and kicking your enemies to the curb.
Anger Foot feels like a caffeine and Ritalin-induced fever dream where the only things deadlier than the heels of your boots are the guns in your hands; kicking ass, taking names, and spitting bullets has never been so weird and exhilarating! Seriously though, Anger Foot is shaping up to be one of the most unique FPS games releasing in 2024. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this one-of-a-kind title!
A Total Solar Eclipse Will Occur in the U.S. on April 8, 2024 — “The 2024 Eclipse Will Transcend the 2017 Eclipse” — Last Total Eclipse in the Lower 48 States for 20 Years
NEW YORK, January 11, 2024 (Newswire.com)
– NationalEclipse.com, one of the leading online resources about solar eclipses, has declared 2024 to be “The Year of the Eclipse.”
Now less than three months away, a total solar eclipse will occur in North America on April 8, 2024. The “path of totality”—the narrow strip of land within which the eclipse will be “total”—will stretch from southwest to northeast, traveling through Mexico, the United States, and Canada. In the U.S., the path will cross 13 states, entering the country in Texas and exiting in Maine.
The 2024 eclipse arrives only seven years after the last total solar eclipse occurred in America on August 21, 2017. According to Dave Clark, operator of NationalEclipse.com, the 2024 eclipse will transcend the 2017 eclipse in several major ways. “The path of the 2024 eclipse will cross over or come close to more major cities than in 2017, making it possible for millions of people to easily witness nature’s greatest show,” says Clark. “The eclipse also features a maximum duration of totality—the amount of time during which the Sun is totally eclipsed by the Moon—that’s almost two minutes longer than in 2017.”
Clark also points out that the 2024 eclipse will be the final total solar eclipse in the contiguous United States for 20 years. Although a total eclipse will occur in Alaska in 2033, residents of the lower 48 states will have to wait until 2044 to witness another total solar eclipse after April 8, 2024.
Due to the historic nature of the April 8, 2024, total solar eclipse, NationalEclipse.com has declared 2024 to be “The Year of the Eclipse” and encourages everyone to make plans to view this awe-inspiring event. “Many people who have seen a total solar eclipse describe it as one of the most spectacular natural events they’ve ever witnessed,” says Clark. “It’s truly a bucket list experience.”
ABOUT NATIONALECLIPSE.COM
Launched in 2015 to provide accurate and reliable information for the 2017 total solar eclipse in the U.S., NationalEclipse.com quickly became one of the leading online resources about solar eclipses, particularly for the upcoming 2024 total eclipse in North America. Featuring comprehensive information on the 2024 eclipse, as well as an Eclipse Store offering certified safe eclipse glasses and other in-demand eclipse items, thousands of people use NationalEclipse.com every day to research where and how to view the 2024 total solar eclipse.
For more information on the 2024 eclipse, or for media requests, please contact Dave Clark at contact@nationaleclipse.com.
The new year begins with a series of new laws going into effect Monday throughout the New York area.
Perhaps most notable is New Jersey’s bipartisan “Seinfeld Bill” requiring Garden State telemarketers to provide the name, mailing address, and telephone number of the company for which they’re working within 30 seconds.
The inspiration for Senate Bill 921’s nickname was a 1992 episode of the hit sitcom “Seinfeld” where comedian Jerry Seinfeld fields a call from a telemarketer and asks for that person’s name and number so he can bother them at home in the same fashion the caller is inconveniencing him.
Lawmakers cited “an overwhelming number of scams targeting seniors by phone” when the bill was signed into law in May. The bill prohibits solicitors from phoning residents between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m.
Newly enacted legislation in New Jersey also means many people working minimum wage jobs will see their hourly wages jump a dollar to $15.13.
New Yorkers earning minimum wage will also get a $1 an hour raise, bringing their hourly earning to $16.
The minimum wage is also going up in Connecticut, thanks to legislation passed in 2019. Workers earning $15 an hour will get $15.69 starting New Year’s Day. Connecticut residents looking to subsidize their incomes by collecting bottles will now get a dime rather than a nickel for each container they collect.
Pennsylvanians who steal Amazon deliveries could be charged as felons starting this year, thanks to a “porch pirating” bill targeting repeat offenders. However, a bill introduced in 2023 aimed to eliminate a three-strikes felony provision for retail theft in the Keystone State.
Massachusetts residents will enjoy the state’s first tax cut in more than 20 years. Bowhunters in parts of the state will also see an earlier start to deer and wild turkey season come fall thanks to legislation passed in the Bay State.
As we get closer to the one-quarter mark of the 21st century, it may seem that things are changing faster than ever before, especially in the areas of culture and media. I deal with music for a living and even I can’t keep up with everything that’s going on. But I think I can see things clearly enough to make some predictions and observations for music in 2024.
1. Music will become even more fragmented
In the olden days, we got all our music in measured doses by record labels, radio, music magazines, record stores and video channels. Today, everything ever recorded is available to us all the time. There’s no one place — like the radio or MuchMusic — where we all go to hear/see the artists that everyone is talking about. Consensus on what’s “good” and who’s “big” has completely broken down. There’s no centre to music anymore. With the exception of a few acts, “big” has never been smaller.
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Few acts unite us as they once did. There was a time when we all ran to the record store to get that one album everyone was talking about. We handed over cold, hard cash, making a financial investment in the artist. Today, there’s so much music to choose from for zero cash layout. We spend all our time idly hitting the “skip” button. We’re all overwhelmed. Music has become devalued. Today’s stars are smaller than those from days of yore.
By way of proof, American radio chart analyst Guy Zapoleon pointed out that 2023 had fewer “consensus hits” — songs that were featured on at least 50 per cent of America’s top 40 stations — than any previous year. How many? Just 18, down from 28 in 2020.
Meanwhile, there seems to be a growing disenchantment with current music. About 75 per cent of all music consumed today is older than two years. That’s not going to change.
2. The algorithms will continue to distort music
Recommendation algorithms used to be essential for working our way through music discovery. Now, though, they seem to be pushing us to things that are easily monetized instead of fulfilling our needs. If you feel that you’re being served up material that you don’t care about, you’re not alone.
Meanwhile, bot farms, fake streams, poor enforcement/moderation and AI clones are just going to make things even more confusing and frustrating.
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3. TikTok could be even more of a game-changer in 2024
TikTok has been one of the world’s most popular apps for a couple of years now. The company realizes that continued growth will depend on deeper integration of licensed music into the platform. Once it has TikTok Music, its streaming service, up and running in more countries, watch for some seismic changes in how the industry reacts.
4. Music streamers will have to consolidate — eventually
I’ve been premature with this prediction before, but it’s got to happen sometime. Right now, there are too many platforms chasing subscribers for a rapidly maturing business model. Why did Spotify CEO Daniel Ek announce major layoffs just before Christmas? Because he and his board see rough times ahead. Spotify is going into lean-and-mean mode. Meanwhile, all streamers remain hamstrung by the licensing deals under which they must work. As soon as more money comes in, more money goes out in lockstep. There’s no opportunity for efficiencies and synergies that will increase margins.
Spotify has a market cap of almost US$40 billion and has the reserves to continue to play the long game. Apple Music will survive, thanks to the fact that the parent company is worth over US$3 trillion. Anything Alphabet does (YouTube, YouTube Music) is also safe. Amazon Music has Jeff Bezos. But what about Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer, Napster and everyone else? How long can they stay independent?
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5. The language of popular music will continue to evolve
It used to be that if you wanted a global hit, you had to sing in English. Not anymore. Thanks to the widespread availability of cheap streaming music, songs are free to flow anywhere they want. Latin music has exploded. K-pop is everywhere. It’s only a matter of time before we see global hits emerging from India, China and Africa.
6. The AI-and-music panic will subside
Right now, everyone sees AI as a threat to humanity in music. But we’ve seen this movie before with the rise of synthesizers (“They’re killing jobs for musicians!”), drum machines (“Human drummers will become extinct!”) and sampling (“All music will end up just being recycled bits!”). It’ll take a few more years to sort out all the legalities and ethics of this new technology, but we’ll soon wonder how we all did without AI. Just like we did with synths, drum machines and sampling.
With so many of our legends in their 70s and 80s, it’s just a matter of time. Prepare yourself.
8. We will finally have music that sounds as good as what we had in the ’70s
A couple of generations have grown up on the inferior audio quality of MP3s and their ilk. Convenient and portable, yes. Good-sounding audio? No. But with the rise of new tech (Dolby ATMOS, Sony 360, Apple Spatial Audio, Hi-Res Audio) we’re approaching an era where music will not only sound better than MP3s and other compressed formats but better than CDs. A few things still need to be worked out (proper decoding hardware on phones, more bandwidth to allow for wireless listening), but we’ve turned a corner when it comes to getting back to proper high-fidelity music.
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9. We may finally say enough is enough to high ticket prices
Acts have been pushing hard to see how much fans are willing to pay to see a show. So far, though, fans haven’t reached the breaking point. Funflation — the idea of spending more and more money on fun things because the world seems so crazy that going to a gig is one way of coping with one existential crisis after another — can’t go on indefinitely. Once artists and promoters start seeing rows and rows of empty seats, they’ll know that we’ve reached our limit.
10. The Taylor Swift/Travis Kelce thing will end badly
Talk about a marketing powerhouse. Kelce was already a star when he crossed paths with Tay-Tay, so when their relationship became public, they became a Richard Burton-Liz Taylor-style phenomenon.
Their tryst has been a win-win for everyone, including the NFL, which has seen ratings in certain demos skyrocket. A sizable portion of the population is invested in the couple, but for the story to be complete, it has to end with a tragic breakup. More than one person has written that if the Kansas City Chiefs tank down the stretch and into the playoffs, Swift will be made into a scapegoat by Chiefs fans for causing such a distraction. I’ve already seen her referred to as “Yoko” a number of times. But just think of the songs she will get out of it!
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That may end up being the start of the Tay-Tay backlash. You can’t become as ubiquitous as Taylor Swift is now forever. At some point, people will begin to tire of hearing and reading about her every day. It won’t be the end of her, however. She’s proven far too savvy when it comes to managing her career and she’ll survive any downturn. But Taylormania as we know it right now will subside. That’ll be a nice break.
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Alan Cross is a broadcaster with Q107 and 102.1 the Edge and a commentator for Global News.
Subscribe to Alan’s Ongoing History of New Music Podcast now on Apple Podcast.
There was a change in the air. It was Mardi Gras in New Orleans, after all.”
— -Penelope Douglas
NEW ORLEANS, LA, UNITED STATES, December 31, 2023 /EINPresswire.com/ — As the Marketing Director of the Historic Mardi Gras Inn, located in the heart of New Orleans’ famous French Quarter, Karen Brem invites guests to immerse themselves in the city’s most iconic celebration, Mardi Gras. The 2024 season, spanning from January 6, 2024 to February 13, 2024, promises an unforgettable experience filled with music, parades, and culinary delights.
Mardi Gras, a historic tradition in New Orleans, is a season of joy, marked by vibrant parades, exquisite King Cakes, and a plethora of culinary delicacies unique to the region. This year, the festivities will include multiple parades, each with its own theme and character, please check online for parade schedules and routes.
“Mardi Gras in New Orleans is not just a day; it’s a season,” says Karen Brem. “It’s a time when the city’s rich cultural heritage comes alive through music, food, and community spirit. Our inn, steeped in history, provides a cozy, convenient base for guests to explore and participate in the myriad of activities that make Mardi Gras an unforgettable experience.”
The 2024 box office isn’t looking good. Due to a lack of major blockbuster movies next year, it is estimated the box office could lose billions.
The box office already had a rough year in 2023. While some films like Barbie and Oppenheimer prevailed, there were multiple surprising box office flops from Disney, Marvel, and DC. Many factors played into the box office struggles, including franchise and superhero fatigue and the fact that theaters have been contending with streamers since the pandemic. However, another major factor in box office performance was the dual strikes from the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the Writers Guild of America (WGA). Actors and writers were forced to strike over the summer because studios refused to adequately compensate them or protect their jobs from AI.
Since studios dragged their feet during negotiations, the actors’ strike didn’t conclude until November. During the months that the strikes lasted, multiple projects got delayed into the following year, including some that would’ve been major box office players, like Dune: Part Two. The strikes also impacted promotions and advertising for the films that did premiere, further driving down box office numbers. In total, it is estimated that the box office gross at the end of 2023 will be around $8.8 to $8.9 billion, despite earlier predictions that it would surpass $9 or even $10 billion. However, this disappointment pales in comparison to what might be in store for the 2024 box office.
2024 box office estimated to lose at least $1 billion
While the 2023 box office is very close to reaching $9 billion, according to a report by Deadline, the 2024 box office gross is estimated to top off at just around $8 billion. Hence, it’s expected to see a staggering loss of $1 billion, an 11% decrease. This is just an estimate, so the final results could be better—or they could be even worse. The problem with next year’s box office is actually quite simple: there just aren’t a whole lot of movies coming out.
While 2023 boasted 124 movies with wide releases, 2024 only has 107 lined up. There are going to be six weekends next year that completely lack major theatrical releases. The beginning of the year will be especially bare, with only 30 wide releases slated between January and April compared to the 44 wide releases in 2023. In addition to fewer movies, the fear of disinterest continues to build. Granted, there are a few major releases that could make up for the losses, especially with Deadpool 3, Joker: Folie à Deux, Dune: Part Two, Inside Out 2, and Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga on the horizon.
However, even without looking at the hard numbers, the lack of movies is fairly noticeable. While the MCU had three films premiere this year, Deadpool 3 will be the lone MCU film released in 2024. Similarly, after three releases this year, the DCU will release no films next year. Some of the most highly anticipated 2024 films, like Avatar 3 and Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse, are no longer on the 2024 slate due to delays. If viewers can already feel the lack of films next year, the box office will surely feel it more significantly.
At the same time, responsibility for the anticipated losses will fall squarely on the studios. The lack of films next year is a direct result of the dual strikes this year. Even though the strikes concluded, Hollywood will be experiencing the aftershock for quite some time. The industry can’t just shut down for months and somehow still maintain its output and profits. It’s difficult to imagine that the studios didn’t foresee this issue, making it all the more frustrating that they allowed the strikes to go on for so long. Both moviegoers and the industry will feel the toll of the lack of movies next year, and it’s something that could’ve been avoided if Hollywood had simply fairly compensated its workers.
