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A Strong Dollar Means Bargains for Americans Traveling Abroad A Strong Dollar Means Bargains for Americans Traveling Abroad Last August, a hotel room in Europe priced at 200 euros was about $224. Today, travelers spending American dollars would pay only $208. On the rise since last autumn, the dollar is strong compared with a number of foreign currencies, including the euro, the Japanese yen and the ********* dollar. And President Trump’s tariff threat is only making it stronger. For travelers, the exchange rate bonus makes trips abroad extra appealing. “We’ve seen an increase in international bookings as travelers look to maximize the value of their dollar abroad,” said Michael Johnson, the president of Ensemble, a travel agency consortium. “The strength of the U.S. dollar has made destinations in Europe, Asia and South America more attractive, as travelers can get more for their money.” In these dynamic and unpredictable times, whether the dollar will remain strong is anyone’s guess. To understand the fluctuations of the foreign exchange market and how and where to take advantage of it, we asked travel and financial experts to weigh in. Strong present, uncertain future A number of factors influence the value of the dollar. Among them, said Michael Melvin, the executive director of the master of quantitative finance program at the University of California San Diego, are economic growth and geopolitical risk. In recent years, “The U.S. has had exceptional economic growth relative to other countries,” Mr. Melvin said, noting the higher interest rates imposed by the Federal Reserve to combat inflation only made the dollar more attractive to investors. International conflicts such as those in Ukraine and the Middle East also lead to investments in U.S. Treasury bonds. “The U.S. dollar has a safe-haven role to play in uncertain times,” Mr. Melvin said. Talk of tariffs has created more volatility. When 25 percent tariffs were recently threatened against Canada and Mexico, their currencies initially plunged against the dollar. They have since recovered after postponements were announced, but still offer good value. Alex Cohen, a senior foreign exchange strategist for Bank of America, expects the dollar to remain strong for the first half of the year as the new administration’s policies take effect. The outlook for travelers The exchange rate benefit largely affects foreign travel purchases like food, gifts and hotel bills, rather than airfare, particularly for those flying on American carriers, where pricing is in dollars. Travelers are noticing the potential for savings. Since November, bookings have been up 65 percent compared with the same ******* last year at Luxe Voyage Travel, based in Clermont, Fla., according to its owner, Cristina Cunha, a member of the Envoyage global network of advisers. “Clients are feeling more confident about traveling abroad, thanks to the strengthening U.S. dollar and post-election stability,” Ms. Cunha said. For those who have already booked foreign trips, the dollar bonus is an invitation to indulge, said Peter Vlitas, executive vice president of partner relations for Internova Travel Group, a travel services company with more than 100,000 travel advisers. “Historically, when the dollar is strong, we have seen travelers who are already committed to their trips try to ‘buy up’ and get better value for their dollar,” Mr. Vlitas wrote in an email. Adrian Mooney, the director of sales at the hotel and golf club Kilkea Castle in County Kildare, Ireland, said that for American guests, the exchange benefit is going to extras like spa services and horseback riding. “The strong dollar is giving guests more spending power on the ground,” Mr. Mooney said. How to take advantage of the exchange rate Before leaving home, make sure your credit card does not charge a fee for transactions in foreign currencies, advised Kathy McCabe, the host of two public television shows “Dream of Europe” and “Dream of Italy.” When using the card, pay in the local currency when vendors ask if you want to purchase the transaction in dollars or in foreign currency. “Always choose the local currency,” Ms. McCabe said. “This will avoid dynamic currency conversion, which is a service that converts the purchase to your home currency at a marked-up exchange rate.” She pointed to a warning by the European Consumer Organization that called the practice a “scam,” noting that studies had found the practice raised prices between 2.6 and 12 percent for those who opted for the converted currency. When you need foreign cash, withdraw it from a bank-owned A.T.M., said Laura Lindsay, the global travel trends expert with Skyscanner, a flight comparison site, because bank A.T.M.s offer a better exchange rate and lower fees than private ones. Where to stretch your budget Among countries where the U.S. dollar goes further, Japan is a particularly good value as the yen — currently going for 152 yen to the dollar — has been declining against the dollar for the past four years, according to Mr. Melvin of U.C.S.D. “Japan has been on ***** for U.S. visitors,” he said. “It costs a third less to go to Japan than just a few years ago.” Expedia found Osaka to be among the cheapest hotel destinations for April travel, averaging about 26,878 yen a night, or $175. The dollar doesn’t buy quite as many euros as it did in the fall of 2022 when it was slightly ahead of the European currency, but it’s not far-off today, at 0.96 euros to the dollar. Last year at this time, a dollar bought about 17 ******** pesos. Today, it buys more than 20. Hotels in popular beach destinations often get around the exchange rate slide by stating their rates in dollars. But that’s less common at small hotels such as Mesones Sacristía, in Puebla, which offers antique-furnished rooms from 2,300 pesos ($113). The dollar has also been gaining on the ********* dollar in the past year, going from 1.35 ********* to 1.42 for $1. And it’s not just the exchange rate that benefits Americans heading north. Kayak found that airfare is down 18 percent compared with 2023 based on recent searches for travel through April. Keep an eye out for sales. For example, through March 3, the houseboat rental company Le Boat is offering a deal that saves travelers the normal 13 percent tax on weeklong rentals on the Trent-Severn Waterway in Ontario, a 52 Places to Go pick this year. Seven-night trips start at 3,359 dollars ($2,359). Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2025. Source link #Strong #Dollar #Means #Bargains #Americans #Traveling Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Russian ambassador ‘not sure’ Ukrainians would re-elect Zelensky Russian ambassador ‘not sure’ Ukrainians would re-elect Zelensky The Russian ambassador to the *** has said he is “not sure” Ukrainians would vote for Zelensky if elections were held today. Speaking to BBC Newsnight’s Victoria Derbyshire, Andrei Kelin was asked if requesting President Zelensksy to stand down as the leader of Ukraine could be among Russia’s demands as a condition of peace. “There is a big demand from the Americans that Ukrainian population expresses their free will on who should be the leader of Ukraine and I’m not sure it will be Zelensky,” he said. Read more on this story. Source link #Russian #ambassador #Ukrainians #reelect #Zelensky Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Ireland’s seven changes to face 6-Nations battler Wales Ireland’s seven changes to face 6-Nations battler Wales Hooker Dan Sheehan will captain unbeaten but much-changed Ireland in Saturday’s Six Nations game against Wales in Cardiff after both Caelan Doris and Ronan Kelleher were ruled out through injury. It will be Sheehan’s first start for Ireland since suffering a serious knee injury against South Africa in Pretoria eight months ago. His inclusion is among seven changes made by coach Simon Easterby from the side that beat Scotland 32-18 at Murrayfield two weeks ago. Easterby has handed opportunities to players who have been knocking on the door for selection like fullback Jamie Osborne, who replaces Hugo Keenan. In the front row, Finaly Bealham is rested to allow Thomas Clarkson a first Test start after four substitute appearances while uncapped Jack Boyle gets a berth on the bench. The coach also brings back Gary Ringrose to partner Robbie Henshaw at centre while *********** Mack Hansen returns to the right wing after a hamstring injury meant he could not face Scotland. Joe McCarthy suffered a head knock in a non-contact drill days before Ireland’s first match of the competition against England but he returns at lock in place of James Ryan. Regular captain Doris misses out due to a knee injury after playing in each of Ireland’s last 41 tests and is replaced at number eight by Jack Conan. New skipper Sheehan, 26, has come off the bench in their opening two wins against England and Scotland. He replaces Kelleher, who has a neck injury. “We have made a few changes to the squad this week, some of which were enforced, and we’re confident that the 23 we have selected are primed and ready to go,” said Easterby in a statement. “Dan Sheehan’s selection as captain is recognition of his high standing within the squad, both on and off the pitch,” he added. Team: 15-Jamie Osborne, 14-Mack Hansen, 13-Garry Ringrose, 12-Robbie Henshaw, 11-James Lowe, 10-Sam Prendergast, 9-Jamison Gibson-Park, 8-Jack Conan, 7-Josh van der Flier, 6-Peter O’Mahony, 5-Tadhg Beirne, 4-Joe McCarthy, 3-Thomas Clarkson, 2- Dan Sheehan (captain), 1-Andrew Porter Replacements: 16-Gus McCarthy, 17-Jack Boyle, 18-Finlay Bealham, 19-James Ryan, 20-Cian Prendergast, 21-Conor Murray, 22-Jack Crowley, 23-Bundee Aki. Source link #Irelands #face #6Nations #battler #Wales Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Do you recognize them? Deputies looking for 2 suspects connected to Christmas Eve shooting Do you recognize them? Deputies looking for 2 suspects connected to Christmas Eve shooting Do you recognize these two suspects? [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is looking for a man and woman wanted in connection to a Christmas Eve shooting in Jefferson Township, according to a social media post. They have been identified as Jaevon Wells and Tre’a Miller who are both wanted for felonious assault. As previously reported by News Center 7, deputies responded to Fortman and Hackett Drives on Dec. 24 on reports of a shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They found a man who had been shot in the leg in a crashed car. >>PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Man injured in shooting in Montgomery County TRENDING STORIES: The sheriff’s office said multiple casings were recovered from the scene. Security camera footage revealed a drive-by shooting with a suspected vehicle identified as a White Ford Fusion, Ohio License Plate JXB8652, the sheriff’s office said. Deputies identified Wells and Miller as the shooters and both suspects have active warrants for their arrests. Contact the Regional Dispatch Center at (937) 225-4357 (HELP) or Miami Valley Crime Stoppers at 222-STOP if you have any information. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Source link #recognize #Deputies #suspects #connected #Christmas #Eve #shooting Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Secret Gurranq Detail Makes the Elden Ring Boss the Saddest Fight in the Game Secret Gurranq Detail Makes the Elden Ring Boss the Saddest Fight in the Game Elden Ring has a lot of detail in its presentation, which ranges from its expansive world lore to the individual bosses housed within. This makes for quite an immersive open-world experience, and the game deserves all the praise it gets. The game world features a ton of secrets and fun little easter eggs hidden throughout, and a recently revealed secret about Gurranq, the Beast Clergyman will make you appreciate it all the more, regardless of its implications. Gurranq woefully howls at night in Elden Ring Gurranq the ******** Clergyman howls sadly | Image Credit: FromSoftware In otherwise normal conditions, a particular detail surrounding Gurranq the ******** Clergyman can be easily missed. However, eagle-eyed fans might notice that he periodically howls, in particular at the direction of the Erdtree – where Marika resides. It could be attributed that the Elden Ring NPC misses Marika dearly and howls to express his sadness on being forced to part ways with her. After all, he is charged with protecting the Death Rune, something he miserably failed to do (and ended up having Godwyn, Marika’s firstborn child killed in the process). Either way, the beast can be found in a rather pitiful state when you meet him, where he will ask for your Deathroots. Gurranq craves these Deathroots, opting for a fleeting sense of a final respite. He craves the item, yet his hunger for it cannot be sated. Players can hand him over a total of 4 Deathroots, after which he becomes incredibly hostile towards you, perhaps understanding that he cannot be sated anymore. A fight ensues, like most Elden Ring fights this can be quite brutal if you are ill-prepared. Two paths with differing outcomes Depending on your actions during the battle, Gurranq’s fate can differ. Subduing Gurranq (holding him down to 30% of his HP) will restore him back to his original resting place, where you can continue giving him five more Deathroots. He will hand over an Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone to you, before crumbling to dust and fading away once his quest is done. Gurranq howls at the Erdtree | Image Credita: FromSoftware Alternatively, players can choose to immediately kill him when he stops attacking – this will also drop the Smithing Stone – but will naturally stop them from progressing through his quest any further. Well, keeping the quest business aside, if you want to see him howl, you will have to skip until it is nighttime in-game first – and might even have to log in and out of the game once. He should spawn, howling at the Site of Grace, where he sometimes talks in his sleep. Gurranq has some rather interesting dialogue once you spare him though, which culminates into the famous Maliketh boss fight, which should not be missed if you want a real challenge in Elden Ring. Either way, the first fight against a wounded Beast Clergyman does not feel honorable or particularly rewarding especially when you opt for the second route – striking him down at his weakest in the process. Gurranq’s path can end in two ways | Image Credit: FromSoftware Gurranq is quite the pitiful figure in Elden Ring, and like a hound wailing for its master, he craves to be whole again but is bound by duty to never set foot further. This makes the fight all the more damning and is simply a token of both Miyazaki and George R.R. Martin’s combined genius that makes the game shine as much as it does in these very little details. Source link #Secret #Gurranq #Detail #Elden #Ring #Boss #Saddest #Fight #Game Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Eric Schmitt says Ukraine’s Zelensky should ‘stop lecturing Trump’ – CNN Eric Schmitt says Ukraine’s Zelensky should ‘stop lecturing Trump’ – CNN Eric Schmitt says Ukraine’s Zelensky should ‘stop lecturing Trump’ CNNTrump’s attack on Zelensky stirs fear of major U.S. shift on Russia The Washington PostGOP senators back Trump’s demand for Ukraine elections, but won’t call Zelenskyy ‘dictator’ Fox News Source link #Eric #Schmitt #Ukraines #Zelensky #stop #lecturing #Trump #CNN Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Woman accused of poisoning husband claims he was ‘paranoid’ and would call her ‘Chemical Ali’ Woman accused of poisoning husband claims he was ‘paranoid’ and would call her ‘Chemical Ali’ A woman accused of poisoning her former husband of 39 years told police he was paranoid and would call her “Chemical Ali”, a trial has been told. Source link #Woman #accused #poisoning #husband #claims #paranoid #call #Chemical #Ali Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Thousands Rescued From Notorious Scam Compounds – Newser Thousands Rescued From Notorious Scam Compounds – Newser Thousands Rescued From Notorious Scam Compounds NewserChinese extricated from Myanmar scam centres fly home from Thailand ReutersChina begins repatriation from Thailand of more than 1,000 online scam workers rescued from Myanmar The HillThousands rescued from ******** scam compounds in Myanmar as Thailand launches huge crackdown The GuardianA top ******** official tours Thai-Myanmar border to highlight crackdown on scam centers The Associated Press Source link #Thousands #Rescued #Notorious #Scam #Compounds #Newser Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Intruders force entry to Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan’s home Intruders force entry to Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan’s home Police are investigating after four people broke into the home of TV personalities Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan. The married couple, 38 and 37, reported intruders forced entry to their home in Essex at about 18:20 GMT on Tuesday. Essex Police said the group carried out a search of the property “before fleeing”. Wright and Keegan, who is pregnant, describe the property as their “dream home” on Instagram, where they run an account that has 664,000 followers. Essex Police has increased “high visibility” patrols in the area while an investigation continues. The force said its officers were at the scene within eight minutes on Tuesday. “We are exploring a number of lines of inquiry including but not limited to forensic opportunities, CCTV and witness statements,” a spokeswoman said. “Anyone with information should contact us as soon as possible.” Wright rose to fame on reality show The Only Way Is Essex, while Keegan first appeared on television as Tina McIntrye in ITV soap opera Coronation Street. The couple have used the Instagram account to chart their progress in building their home since 2021. The BBC has contacted Wright and Keegan’s representatives for comment. Source link #Intruders #force #entry #Mark #Wright #Michelle #Keegans #home Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Dying Light 2’s Tower Raid Mode Is Now Permanently In The Game Dying Light 2’s Tower Raid Mode Is Now Permanently In The Game Dying Light 2: Stay Human has a new permanent game mode, but it’s one you’ve probably played before. The team at Techland has pushed ‘Tower Raid’ into the game permanently, bolstering the intense roguelite mode with fresh challenges and mechanics. As a live-service title, Dying Light 2 is regularly updated with new content drops, bounties, limited-time events, and skin packs. Out of all those deliverables, Tower Raid is one of the most positively received add-ons since the game emerged in 2022, and fans are happy to see it made into a permanent fixture in the open-world, zombie-slaying title. ‘Fail, Get Tougher, Repeat’ Tower Raid is what it sounds like. Players – either solo or with friends – are tasked with ascending a tower packed with enemies that get increasingly difficult to defeat the higher you go. There are three difficulty tiers, with the topmost level, ‘Elite’, being nothing short of punishing – but it yields incredible rewards. Players are invited to pick from four classes, each boasting a unique skill set and loadout. The inherent roguelite nature of the mode means that you can mix and match your playstyles to see what works best, as every time you enter the tower, you’ll never really know what to expect. To welcome the permanent mode, Techland has added new rewards to the ‘Raid Hub’, fronted by a trader called Sola. If you play Tower Raid, you can unlock: Office Day Outfit Kuai Dagger Silenced Pistol Amongst other things, of course. It doesn’t end here, though. Techland has stressed that, after a few weeks on the market, a survey will be posted for players to give their feedback about the upgraded Tower Raid mode. That means that things could get even better. Recently, Techland laid out a roadmap of content in celebration of the 10th anniversary of Dying Light. I caught up with the team to learn about what happened to the $386,000 collector’s edition, and at Gamescom, I spoke to Roger Craig Smith about the upcoming release of Dying Light: The Beast. Are you still playing Dying Light 2: Stay Human? Let us know in the comments or on the Insider Gaming forum. For more Insider Gaming coverage, check out the news about Gamescom Asia’s expansion SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter to receive the latest news and exclusive leaks every week! No Spam. Source link #Dying #Light #Tower #Raid #Mode #Permanently #Game Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Labor’s pledge to provide stamp duty relief ‘means nothing’ for Hedland first-homebuyers Labor’s pledge to provide stamp duty relief ‘means nothing’ for Hedland first-homebuyers A Port Hedland real estate agent said slashing stamp duty for first homebuyers on purchases up to $500,000 “means nothing” for Hedland first homebuyers as it doesn’t resolve the supply vs demand issue. Source link #Labors #pledge #provide #stamp #duty #relief #means #Hedland #firsthomebuyers Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

The healthiest dark chocolates to make your day even sweeter The healthiest dark chocolates to make your day even sweeter Downing a smooth, sweet morsel of chocolate may feel like the ultimate indulgence, but did you know that eating dark chocolate could actually be good for your heart? Yes, you read that correctly — dark chocolate is more than just a delicious treat; it has some sweet benefits for your cardiovascular health too. Before you start stockpiling candy bars, though, there’s a bit more to the science than simply grabbing the darkest-looking chocolate on the shelf. As a registered dietitian, I know that not all dark chocolates are created equal, and I want to help break it down for you so you can grab the healthiest dark chocolate for your love (or yourself) the next time you hit the grocery store. The heart-healthy perks of dark chocolate Dark chocolate isn’t just a decadent treat. It’s a delicious source of nutrients and compounds that support heart health. Dark chocolate contains health-promoting antioxidants “Dark chocolate has flavonoids, a type of antioxidant, which studies have correlated with heart health, improved blood flow, and potential for ******* prevention,” says Amanda Goodman, a registered dietitian. When focusing on heart health, these flavonoids have been shown to deliver a host of cardiovascular benefits, including improved blood flow, lower blood pressure and enhanced function of blood vessels. For example, a 2015 review study from Harvard looking at the chocolate consumption habits of more than 20,000 people revealed that regularly consuming moderate amounts of chocolate is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. Specifically, the findings, published in the journal Heart, showed that middle-aged and older adults who consumed up to 3.5 ounces (98.8 grams) of chocolate daily had lower rates of heart disease than those who refrained from eating this food. One reason this may be the case is that chocolate consumption may help improve blood flow in your arteries, making it easier for your heart to do its job. Additionally, flavonols (a subgroup of flavonoids) in dark chocolate help combat inflammation, an underlying cause of many cardiovascular problems. Dark chocolate offers an assist during stressful moments But there’s more to dark chocolate’s magic, especially when it comes to handling stress and heart health. A smaller published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition showed dark chocolate consumption may help reduce the cardiovascular strain induced by stress, making it easier for the body to stay calm under pressure. Milk chocolate, on the other hand, didn’t produce these stress-busting benefits, further underscoring why dark chocolate reigns supreme for heart health. Dark chocolate contains heart-supporting magnesium “Dark chocolate is also a source of magnesium,” shared Samantha Turner, a registered dietitian and the owner of Forks and Grace. If you have low levels of magnesium you may be at greater risk for heart problems like irregular heartbeats, high blood pressure and strokes, while maintaining healthy levels of this mineral could play a key role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Dark chocolate reduces the risk of other chronic diseases But the health benefits linked to dark chocolate don’t stop at heart health. Data published in BMJ in 2024 indicate that an increased consumption of dark, but not milk, chocolate was associated with lower risk of type 2 diabetes. There’s also evidence that dark chocolate helps reduce the inflammatory burden of chronic kidney disease and may help improve cognitive function and mood in older adults. However, the benefits of dark chocolate aren’t automatic. Choosing high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa and enjoying it in moderation is crucial to reaping the rewards. Overindulgence or opting for varieties overloaded with sugar could dampen its positive effects. And, of course, your overall diet should be balanced and rich in nutrient-dense foods in order to reap the most positive health benefits. The conclusion? Dark chocolate, in the right form and portion, is more than just a snack — it’s a heart-helper and stress soother all rolled into one delicious package. What to look for in dark chocolate When choosing dark chocolate, aim for bars that contain at least 70% cacao. Colleen Wysocki, a registered dietitian and the owner of ZEST Nutrition, advised that while the minimum should be 70%, consumers will get more of the antioxidants and fewer calories, saturated **** and sugar if they choose a cacao percentage of 85% or higher. But remember that some brands sneak in extra sugar or unhealthy fats to balance out the bitterness of high cocoa content (which, admittedly, can be an acquired taste). Be sure to check the label — if added sugar or questionable ingredients top the list, it might be time to swipe left. “Look for cacao as the first ingredient instead of sugar,” says Wysocki. Some brands add ********** by leaning on low- and no-calorie sweeteners, like stevia. These additions can help make dark chocolate taste a bit more sweet without the worry about too many added sugars. In fact, evidence from one small study indicates that among people with diabetes, consuming sugar-free dark chocolate bars sweetened with stevia, erythritol and inulin may result in better blood glucose control versus eating a conventional dark chocolate bar. That said, not everyone tolerates these sugar alternatives well, so if you prefer to steer clear of them, be sure to check the label before making a purchase. You may also want to consider choosing Fair Trade Certified chocolate if you prioritize supporting brands that ensure their workers are paid fairly and work under safe, ethical conditions. Fair Trade chocolates also promote sustainable farming practices that benefit communities and the environment. Finally, you may want to consider opting for organic chocolate. When a chocolate is certified organic, you know it’s made from cacao and other ingredients grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The farming methods used in organic chocolate production prioritize soil health, biodiversity and sustainable practices, ensuring environmental and consumer benefits. How much can you eat? Shave dark chocolate over yogurt and enjoy it with fresh fruit for a well-rounded treat. (Getty Creative) Now, for the million-dollar question — how much dark chocolate can you actually eat to stay healthy? Moderation is key. Wysocki suggests sticking to about 1 ounce (one or two small squares) of dark chocolate per day to reap the cardiovascular benefits without loading up on calories and sugar. While it might be tempting to devour an entire bar, remember that dark chocolate, like all good things, is best enjoyed in moderation. Here are some ways to enjoy dark chocolate without “overdoing it”: Pair with fresh fruit. Enjoy a small piece of dark chocolate alongside fresh fruit like strawberries, oranges or cherries. The natural ********** of the fruit complements the rich flavor of the chocolate while adding vitamins and fiber. Choose pre-portioned options. Buy individually wrapped dark chocolate squares or pre-portioned bars. Use as a topping. Shave or grate a small amount of dark chocolate over yogurt, oatmeal or a smoothie bowl for a sweet touch without consuming a full bar. Make DIY trail mix. Combine a few dark chocolate chips with nuts, seeds and dried fruit for a balanced snack packed with protein, healthy fats and antioxidants. Enjoy mindfully. Take the time to savor each bite of dark chocolate. Eating slowly allows you to fully appreciate its flavor and helps prevent overeating. The best dark chocolates for heart health Now that you’re armed with the science of dark chocolate’s heart-healthy perks, it’s time to put theory into practice. Don’t just grab any old chocolate bar. Show your heart (and your taste buds) some love by choosing wisely. From rich, velvety options to ethically sourced delights, we’ve got the sweetest suggestions to make your chocolate choice as savvy as it is indulgent. Let’s unwrap the best dark chocolates to keep your ticker happy and your sweet tooth satisfied. Meet the experts Amanda Goodman, MS, RDN, CDN, registered dietitian and owner of Amanda Goodman Nutrition Samantha Turner, MPH, RD, registered dietitian and owner of Forks and Grace Colleen Wysocki, MS, RDN, CLC, registered dietitian and owner of ZEST Nutrition Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health. Source link #healthiest #dark #chocolates #day #sweeter Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Europe risks becoming ‘museum’ without innovating in AI: Swedish PM Europe risks becoming ‘museum’ without innovating in AI: Swedish PM Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson during a press conference on Jan. 17, 2025. Florian Gaertner | Photothek | Getty Images STOCKHOLM — Europe is at risk of becoming a “museum” if it doesn’t soften strict curbs on artificial intelligence technologies and deregulate, Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said Thursday. “I think we really need to step up in Europe … the American economy, ******** economy have been growing far faster compared to the European economies over the last 20 years,” the premier told attendees of the Techarena event in Stockholm. “If we don’t change that, Europe will actually become some kind of a museum compared to other parts of the world,” he added. This breaking news story is being updated. Source link #Europe #risks #museum #innovating #Swedish Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Europe risks becoming ‘museum’ without innovating in AI: Swedish PM Europe risks becoming ‘museum’ without innovating in AI: Swedish PM Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson during a press conference on Jan. 17, 2025. Florian Gaertner | Photothek | Getty Images STOCKHOLM — Europe is at risk of becoming a “museum” if it doesn’t soften strict curbs on artificial intelligence technologies and deregulate, Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said Thursday. “I think we really need to step up in Europe … the American economy, ******** economy have been growing far faster compared to the European economies over the last 20 years,” the premier told attendees of the Techarena event in Stockholm. “If we don’t change that, Europe will actually become some kind of a museum compared to other parts of the world,” he added. This breaking news story is being updated. Source link #Europe #risks #museum #innovating #Swedish Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Trump says he's considering buying used planes to serve as Air Force One amid Boeing delays – The Associated Press Trump says he's considering buying used planes to serve as Air Force One amid Boeing delays – The Associated Press Trump says he’s considering buying used planes to serve as Air Force One amid Boeing delays The Associated PressA Frustrated Trump Wants His New Air Force One Planes Pronto The New York TimesI’m not happy with Boeing, Trump says over Air Force One BBC.comDonald Trump wants his new Air Force One jets fast: ‘Boeing’s been building this thing forever’ The Times of IndiaTrump ‘not happy with Boeing’ over Air Force One planes Reuters Source link #Trump #he039s #buying #planes #serve #Air #Force #Boeing #delays #Press Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

When Will Bitcoin’s Consolidation End? When Will Bitcoin’s Consolidation End? Bitcoin consolidates between 94k to 98k Headwinds limit gains – FTX distributions – Hawkish Federal Reserve – BTC ETF outflows Tailwinds could support a break higher – Regulatory Backdrop & Texas BTC reserves – Institutional demand Bitcoin technical analysis continues to trade in a very tight range, consolidating between 94k and 98k over the past two weeks and between 91.5k and 105k over the past two months. The price briefly dipped to a low of 93.3k on Tuesday before quickly recovering back above 95k the same day. Today BTC trades at 96.6k as investors weigh up whether BTC/USD will break out or break down from the holding pattern. The weak sell-offs could favour a break to the upside. Bitcoin Headwinds Limit Gains 1. FTX Distributions The price dipped to 93.3k, a two-week low, on Tuesday news that default exchange FTX began paying creditors owed $50,000 or less. FTX also announced that it will start repayments to customers with accounts above $50,000 as of May 30. According to Arkham data, this first wave of distributions represented $1.2 billion in value. This is just the start of the payout process, which is expected to total $16.5 billion. 2. Hawkish Federal Reserve This is not the only headwind that Bitcoin is facing. A more hawkish stance from the Federal Reserve has also limited BTC’s upside. The FOMC minutes released on Wednesday supported the view that the Fed is in no rush to cut rates until inflation improves. The minutes showed policymakers acknowledging the strong state of the labor market and the need for more progress on inflation before further rate cuts were necessary. 3. Trump Trade Tariffs The prospect of additional trade tariffs has been another limiting factor. Trump threatened a further 25% trade tariffs on automobiles, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals. This latest threat follows 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminium imports into the US. The prospect of additional trade tariffs, which could increase inflationary pressure and slow global growth, is preventing Bitcoin bulls from pushing higher. 4. BTC ETF Outflows Capital inflows also highlight the slowdown in the Bitcoin rally. Bitcoin spot ETFs saw $585.6 million in outflows last week, ending a six-week run of inflows. BTC ETF inflows must ramp up for BTC to break higher. Bitcoin Tailwinds Could Support a Break Higher 1. Regulatory Backdrop & Texas Bitcoin Reserve Bitcoin headwinds offset several tailwinds, including a more favorable regulatory backdrop amid changes at the SEC and news that Texas is pushing through new legislation that would permit part of its strategic reserve to be held in Bitcoin. Should the proposal pass, the current $500 million annual cap on purchases would be removed, potentially setting a precedent and driving significant demand. This may be a first step towards a Bitcoin Strategic National Reserve. According to the playmaker, there is a 43% probability of a national Bitcoin reserve being created. 2. Institutional Demand Meanwhile, recent 13F filings have also been sending positive signals. The filings show that the type of Bitcoin buyer is evolving from retail and hedge funds to banks and sovereign funds. Filings indicate that Goldman Sachs has increased its cryptocurrency exposure by investing $2 billion in Bitcoin ETFs and related options in Q4 2024. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund, Mubadala Investment Company, disclosed a significant Bitcoin ETF holding, making it the 7th largest shareholder in BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF (NASDAQ:). According to its 13F filing, Mubadala invested $436.9 million in BlackRock’s Bitcoin ETF last quarter, underscoring its digital ambitions. The scale of these institutions’ investments marks a turning point in institutional currency adoption, as traditional banks and sovereign funds find regulated ways to gain exposure to digital assets. This evolution could support the Bitcoin price longer term. Bitcoin Technical Analysis Bitcoin has been consolidating between 94k and 98k since early February. The RSI is also neutral. This holding pattern lends itself to a breakout trade. However, the weak sell-offs could favour a break to the upside. Buyers will look to rise above the 50 SMA at 98k and 100k, the psychological level to extend gains towards 105k and 109.5k for fresh record highs. On the downside, sellers will need to break meaningfully below 94k and 91.5k to extend a move lower towards 85k. More analysis Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and is not intended as personal investment advice. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. The financial products offered by the Company are complex and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Virtual assets are inherently volatile and subject to significant value fluctuations, which could result in substantial gains or losses. These products may not be suitable for all investors. Before engaging, you should consider whether you understand how these leveraged products work and whether you can afford the high risk of losing your money. PrimeXBT does not accept clients from Restricted Jurisdictions as indicated on its website. Source link #Bitcoins #Consolidation Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Six Nations 2025: Dan Sheehan to captain much-changed Ireland against Wales Six Nations 2025: Dan Sheehan to captain much-changed Ireland against Wales Dan Sheehan will captain Ireland against Wales in Saturday’s Six Nations game in Cardiff. The hooker will lead the team for the first time with regular skipper Caelan Doris ruled out because of a knee injury. Sheehan, 26, came off the bench in Ireland’s wins over England and Scotland but replaces the injured Ronan Kelleher in a team showing seven changes from the win at Murrayfield. Alongside Sheehan in the front row is Leinster prop Thomas Clarkson, who will make his first Test start after earning his debut in November, while Jack Boyle is set to make his debut off the bench. Jack Conan replaces Doris at number eight, while Joe McCarthy returns to the second row after recovering from the head injury that ruled him out of the first two games. In the backline, Mack Hansen returns to the wing after missing the Scotland game while Garry Ringrose is named to start alongside Robbie Henshaw in midfield, with Bundee Aki dropping to the bench. Jamie Osborne will make his Six Nations debut at full-back, replacing Hugo Keenan, with Sam Prendergast retained at fly-half after impressing in his away debut against Scotland. Source link #Nations #Dan #Sheehan #captain #muchchanged #Ireland #Wales Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Massive Kwinana impairment pulls IGO down to a $782m loss with China ban looming as another headwind Massive Kwinana impairment pulls IGO down to a $782m loss with China ban looming as another headwind IGO is unsure how badly its Kwinana lithium refinery will be stung by a ******** ban that threatens to induce more pain at a misfiring processing plant already decimating the miner’s bottom line. Source link #Massive #Kwinana #impairment #pulls #IGO #782m #loss #China #ban #looming #headwind Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Binghamton firefighter JR Gaudet killed in fire. Here’s the latest on the investigation Binghamton firefighter JR Gaudet killed in fire. Here’s the latest on the investigation The cause of the fire that killed a Binghamton firefighter on Main Street in Binghamton has still not been determined. In an update late Monday, City of Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham’s office said the investigation into the fatal fire that killed 40-year-old Binghamton firefighter John “JR” Gaudet is “continuing,” and is being led by fire investigators from the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. Gaudet, who was an 11-year veteran of the Binghamton Fire Department, died while fighting the flames at 1 and 3 Main St. on the night of Feb. 12, marking the first line-of-duty death in Binghamton since 2013. LIVE UPDATES: ******** service held for Binghamton Firefighter JR Gaudet ******** info for Binghamton firefighter, JR Gaudet A ******** Mass for Gaudet will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Binghamton and will be streamed live on YouTube. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery in Johnson City. Binghamton City Hall administrative offices will be closed on Wednesday. Binghamton City Court will be open on Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In Binghamton on Feb. 14, 2025, downtown landmarks including The Forum paid tribute to firefighter JR Gaudet, who died while fighting a fire Feb. 12. How to support Binghamton firefighter Gaudet’s family Gaudet is survived by his wife and three young children. In the wake of his death, family friends and community organizations have set up fundraisers and local efforts to show their support. Family friend and coworker of Gaudet’s wife, Lyndsie Babcock, created a GoFundMe to assist the family. As of 11 a.m. Tuesday, the fundraiser had raised $271,675. The Syracuse Fire Department also set up a donation fund for Gaudet’s family. Donations can be made online through donorbox.org. This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Binghamton firefighter death investigation. Here’s the latest update Source link #Binghamton #firefighter #Gaudet #killed #fire #Heres #latest #investigation Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Pentagon ordered to make $50B in budget cuts to spend on Trump priorities – Axios Pentagon ordered to make $50B in budget cuts to spend on Trump priorities – Axios Pentagon ordered to make $50B in budget cuts to spend on Trump priorities AxiosPalantir stock drops after report Trump administration is eyeing large defense budget cuts Yahoo FinanceDefense secretary orders military to prepare for major budget cuts CNNPalantir plunges after CEO Karp changes share sales plan, Pentagon budget cut report CNBC Source link #Pentagon #ordered #50B #budget #cuts #spend #Trump #priorities #Axios Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Secrets by Episode lets you create your own romantic stories, now available for Netflix members Secrets by Episode lets you create your own romantic stories, now available for Netflix members Find love in various stories and worlds Each decision will have an impact on the ending Loads of customisation options If you’re into romance stories where your choices shape the outcome, Secrets by Episode is now available on Android and iOS. As a Netflix member, you can dive into interactive dramas with no ads or in-app purchases – just uninterrupted storytelling tailored to mature audiences. The collection features exclusive stories along with fresh takes on some fan favourites. In Secrets by Episode, each chapter puts you at the centre of the action, whether you’re exploring Europe with an unexpectedly charming chaperone in Wherever We Go, rescuing a dog shelter while wrestling with a growing crush in Don’t You Dare, or navigating romance and rivalry as a dancer falling for a boxer in The Knockout. Your decisions shape every interaction. Choose how your character responds in conversations, decide who you pursue, and see how each chapter unfolds based on your choices. If you’re curious about other outcomes, you can replay stories to explore different paths and discover alternate endings. Customisation is a key part of the experience. From facial features, hairstyles, and outfits to selecting the gender and body type of both your character and love interest, you can create the characters you connect with. As the story progresses, you can also choose outfits for key moments, adding another layer of personalisation along your journey. Are you a fan of story-driven experiences? Here’s a list of the best narrative-driven games to play on mobile! These romances lean toward the steamier side, designed for readers 17 and up who enjoy stories with passion and drama. Unlike other interactive stories, Secrets by Episode offers balanced choice options, giving you more freedom to experience the story your way without being limited by premium choices. Begin your steamy romance by downloading Secrets by Episode now on Android and iOS. Do note that you require an active Netflix subscription to play. Source link #Secrets #Episode #lets #create #romantic #stories #Netflix #members Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

LLoyds earmarks £1.2bn for potential payouts LLoyds earmarks £1.2bn for potential payouts Lloyds Banking Group has nearly tripled the amount it is setting aside to cover the car finance mis-selling scandal to £1.2bn, knocking its profits for the year. It is setting aside an extra £700m to cover potential compensation payments, on top of £450m earmarked earlier. Lloyds, and other providers of finance for car loans, are under fire for not being clear enough over commission paid to car dealers, with millions of motorists potentially in line for compensation. However, group chief executive Charlie Nunn told the BBC the issues around motor finance were not comparable to the PPI mis-selling scandal, which cost the bank billions. Mr Nunn said the provision made to cover potential car finance compensation payments was the bank’s “best guess at this stage” and that the bank’s overall performance was strong. “Underlying performance has been really robust and we’ve seen really good growth in the business,” he said. However, the bank reported a pre-tax profit of £5.97bn, down from £7.5bn a year earlier. In April, the Supreme Court will rule on the question of whether people taking out car loans were properly informed over how commission was paid, possibly leading them to be charged more. About two million new and second-hand cars are sold using finance agreements every year, with customers paying an initial deposit and then a monthly fee, including interest. Banks and other lenders may now be in line to pay compensation over some deals, particularly before rules were changed in 2021. A previous mis-selling scandal around payment protection insurance (PPI) a decade ago eventually cost the banks tens of billions of pounds. The total paid out by Lloyds over the PPI mis-selling saga stood at £21.9bn in 2019. Lloyds had the biggest bill of all the banks for mis-selling of the insurance policy – which was intended to cover loan payments if, for instance, customers fell ill. But the insurance was often sold to people who did not want it or did not need it. Source link #LLoyds #earmarks #1.2bn #potential #payouts Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Discarded review: In millions of years, what could a future civilisation learn about us? Discarded review: In millions of years, what could a future civilisation learn about us? Plastic litter on beaches is causing “plastiglomerate” rocks to form Liz Barney/Guardian/eyevine Discarded Sarah Gabbott and Jan Zalasiewicz (Oxford University Press) Humanity has fallen. The last people are long dead after our inadequate efforts to cut carbon emissions let global warming continue unchecked. Most animals and plants were wiped out in the sixth mass extinction to hit our planet. Millions of years have passed and the few hardy species that survived have evolved to create a novel array of endless and beautiful forms. A new intelligent species has come to dominate Earth with the help of complex machines. They are… Source link #Discarded #review #millions #years #future #civilisation #learn Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

FPL gameweek 26 tips and best team – Ethan Nwaneri, Dango Ouattara and Kaoru Mitoma are in FPL gameweek 26 tips and best team – Ethan Nwaneri, Dango Ouattara and Kaoru Mitoma are in Jordan Pickford, Everton, goalkeeper, £5.1m – Manchester United (h) United have scored just twice in their past four league games while Everton are flying under David Moyes. While they may not be razor tight at the back, they still have two clean sheets in their past four and home advantage here. Pickford racks up save points too and even has an assist in him. Gabriel, Arsenal, £6.3m – West Ham (h) I could go on every week about Gabriel’s goal threat but you pick defenders firstly for their chance of a clean sheet and Arsenal are in a strong position this week. The Hammers have scored just two in their past four games, picking up one point. Arsenal have two clean sheets in their past three matches. Basic FPL maths makes Gabriel a strong pick this week. William Saliba, Arsenal, £6.2m – West Ham (h) With statistics on their side, why not throw in another Arsenal defender? This week’s team has plenty of budget. Saliba offers little goal threat – 0.08 expected goals (xG) per 90 minutes – but is dependable, guaranteed to start and actually has more bonus points than Gabriel this season! Antonee Robinson, Fulham, £5.1m – Crystal Palace (h) There aren’t many obvious clean sheet shouts this week so I’ve gone for the man with more Premier League assists than any player except Salah and Bukayo Saka. Daniel Munoz will be flying down Palace’s right flank – meaning Robinson will have his hands full defensively, but also plenty of chances to counter-attack. Source link #FPL #gameweek #tips #team #Ethan #Nwaneri #Dango #Ouattara #Kaoru #Mitoma Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Why being bilingual really does seem to delay dementia Why being bilingual really does seem to delay dementia Speaking more than one language appears to boost our brain in multiple ways Eiko Tsuchiya/Shutterstock Parlez-vous Français? Learning another language may stave off Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia – and it’s never too late to start. Bilingualism was first linked with the deferral of dementia in 2007, when Ellen Bialystok at York University in Toronto and her colleagues examined the records of people who had been referred to a memory clinic and diagnosed with dementia. Of the 184 people in their analysis, symptoms appeared four years later in those who were bilingual than in their monolingual peers.… Source link #bilingual #delay #dementia Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]