LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - A "Star Wars" actress brought some smiles and toys to Lubbock kids stuck in the hospital this holiday season.</p> Leilani Shiu, who stars as a Jawa in several recent "Star Wars" Disney+ series, stopped by Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Southwest to visit patients and bring them presents.</p> "Everybody knows what 'Star Wars' is, and, you know, if I can put a smile on those kids faces, the families, why not? It's my way of giving back," Shiu said.</p> Shiu specializes as a creature actor and kid stand-in. She is currently on the No. 1 hit Disney+ show "Obi-Wan Kenobi" as Teeka the Jawa, the first Jawa governor with a name and that talks. She also stars in "The Mandalorian" and the "Book of Boba Fett," where she is the first on-screen credited principal Jawa as JAWA.</p> "Everybody knows what 'Star Wars' is, and, you know, if I can put a smile on those kids faces, the families, why not? It's my way of giving back," Shiu said.</p> Shiu travels to Ronald McDonald Houses and comic cons across the country. As a little person, she says she can relate to what these kids are going through.</p> "I know what my mom went through, like when I had surgery. They had to drive down every day to be with me, you know? And they had a small business, so that's hard," she said. "You have to not just pay the hospital, then they had to get a hotel, everything. So, I think it's great that, we didn't have Ronald McDonald House back then, so to have this, this is a great blessing," she said.</p> That's why she partnered with a toy store in Big Spring and a comic con organizer to bring these presents and some of their favorite characters to Lubbock.</p> She hopes these presents will kick off a season of giving. Anyone can bring new toys to the Ronald McDonald House, at 3413 10th St. near UMC, to make the holidays a little happier for the kids and families there.</p> "Donate. It really goes to, you know, somebody you might know, or you might have used it yourself. It definitely goes to real families," Shiu said.</p> Along with toys, RMHC says it's always happy to take boxes of snacks to provide for the families.</p>

Leilani Shiu plays a Jawa in the "Star Wars" Disney+ series, "The Mandalorian," "The Book of Boba Fett," and most recently, "Obi-Wan Kenobi."

'Star Wars' Actress delivers toys to Lubbock Ronald McDonald House

LAFAYETTE, La. () — CGI celebrated 10 years in the Lafayette community Tuesday morning with state and local leaders.</p> Over the past decade, CGI's collaborations with the <strong> University of Louisiana at Lafayette </strong><strong> Louisiana Economic Development </strong><strong> Lafayette Economic Development Authority </strong> and other community organizations have led to the creation of 750 high-impact, high-wage jobs in Acadiana and a continuous pipeline of trained tech professionals moving to and staying in Louisiana.</p> "CGI is a global I.T. consulting company and so we provide support for federal government clients, state and local government clients, and then commercial entities and essentially what we do is we figure out a way to bring technology to their missions in order to help them achieve better results for their client, for their customers, or for their constituents," said William LaBar, CGI Vice-President.</p> LaBar said that back in 2014, CGI announced that they planned to create 400 jobs in the area. Since then, the company has created more than 750 and more than 900 across the state.</p> "It's incredible. I've lived in Lafayette for, you know, 24 years and to see, you know, 750 of our employees here today and close to 100 of our community partners honoring the milestone that we're able to celebrate here. It's just a special moment to be a part of," he continued.</p></p></p> Watch for us in your inbox.</p> Subscribe Now</p> KLFY Daily Digest</h1> LaBar said CGI is helping retain talent here in Lafayette and the state of Louisiana, and attracting talent from outside of the state to come and live here.</p> "This is a great place to be. We love Lafayette and are excited about the next 10 years," he said.</p><strong> Mandi Mitchell </strong>, the president and CEO of Lafayette Economic Development Authority, said the economic development authority has a "long and personal stake in the success of CGI."</p> "It is like watching a family member reach a milestone today. So I'm very excited to be here to celebrate this 10th anniversary of CGI in Lafayette," Mitchell said.</p> St. Landry Sheriff needs help finding cemetery vandals </p><strong> Dr. Joseph Savoie </strong>, president of UL Lafayette, said when it comes to Lafayette, CGI promised to invest in the community, to engage in its betterment, and to grow alongside it; which it has done. He said CGI pledged to help the city and region stand out as a hub for innovation, technology, and opportunity and has done that too.</p><strong> Lafayette Mayor-President Monique Blanco Boulet </strong> said one thing CGI does that stands out, that's a little bit different, is building the quality of life in the community from every aspect.</p> "From that perspective, I have a very high level of appreciation for everything that this company does. You see them out in most all volunteer efforts. You see them in all kinds of forms and fashions. Cleaning our community, building our students, working throughout in an effort to build their workforce but what that means is their workforce gets a really good quality of life," she said.</p> Moving and looking forward to the next decade LaBar said they are going to continue to grow.</p> "We work really closely with the university system here and the university system across the state. We have open jobs right now that we're looking to hire for and so we're excited about the growth that's coming there," LaBar said. "I want to inspire more students to pursue careers in technology and help them know that those jobs exist here in Lafayette."</p> Latest News</h2> A Louisiana bill could send more minors to adult prisons </p></li> Laredo police dismiss reports Guy Fieri, Sammy Hagar lost 4,000 cases of tequila in heist </p></li> Tom's of Maine toothpaste made with bacteria-filled water, FDA warns </p></li> Mattel releases doll honoring EGOT winner Rita Moreno </p></li> Italian village offering $1 homes to Americans wanting to relocate after election </p></li><i></i></p>

CGI celebrated 10 years in the Lafayette community Tuesday morning with state and local leaders.

CGI celebrates 10 years in Lafayette, Acadiana region

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The account hasn't tweeted to its 100,000 followers since October. The internet is full of baseless speculation about why.

Is Thelma Johnson, Phoenix’s top parody Twitter account, gone forever?

<p>Breakfast, brunch and lunch chain First Watch is now open in Gainesville. The Bradenton-based restaurant, located at 3729 SW 40 Blvd. off Archer Road, is serving free coffee to Gainesville customers through Nov. 22 to celebrate opening week. </p><p>From 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily, First Watch is open for pickup, delivery and dine-in at the 3,900-square-foot storefront that features a covered patio and indoor and outdoor bar. </p><p>According to a press release, the daytime diner operates in more than 540 locations across 29 states. They serve an "elevated approach" to traditional favorites such as Avocado Toast, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes and Million Dollar Bacon., as well as five seasonal menus that offer fresh ingredients based on the position of the sun. All dishes are made to order in a kitchen without heat lamps, microwaves or deep fryers. </p> Become A Member</h5><p>Mainstreet does not have a paywall, but pavement-pounding journalism is not free. Join your neighbors who make this vital work possible.</p><p>The restaurant bar brews fresh juices made in-house daily and Project Sunrise coffee, sourced by women coffee farmers based in South America. </p><p>The Gainesville location will offer its first seasonal menu in 2025 and will employ around 30 people under a "No Night Shifts Ever" approach. This aims to help the team enjoy their evenings and build a better quality of life. Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute named First Watch the 2024 #1 Most Loved Workplace in America, and in 2023 Yelp included the restaurant on the inaugural list of top 50 most-loved brands in the U.S. </p><p>Anyone interested in placing an order or joining a digital waitlist can. Job applications can be found here. </p></span>

Top daytime dining chain now serving breakfast, lunch and brunch on Archer Road.

First Watch opens in Gainesville

<p>Toy guns, a doggy xylophone, and a friendly-looking bright yellow stuffed animal are all on Santa's naughty list this year.</p><p>They're some of the nominees listed among the "10 Worst Toys" this holiday season, according to World Against Toys Causing Harm Inc., a non-profit focused on educating the public about potentially dangerous children's products.</p><p>The organization has put out the list for the past 52 years. It's president, Joan Siff, announced the list Tuesday morning.</p><p>This year's full list of dangerous toys includes the Pinovk Toy Colt 45 Pistol, Bristle Hedgehog, Transformers Earthspark Cyber-Sleeve, Kinetic Sand Scents - Ice Cream Treats, Wubble Rumblers Inflatable Furious Fist, Click N' Play Toy Remote Set, Snackles - Sandy, X-Shot Poppy Playtime, Playzone-Fit Tri-Flyer and the Zoo Jamz Doggy Xylophone.</p><p>"A toy can be dangerous because it's improperly manufactured, improperly designed, not marketed well," Siff said. "Those are all different phases of production where something can go wrong."</p><p>The organization's concern is that many toys appear harmless but can pose a danger in the hands of a young child.</p><p><b>RELATED STORY | </b> Mattel says it 'deeply' regrets misprint on 'Wicked' dolls packaging that links to porn site Toy injuries have increased for three years in a row. More than 184,000 injuries from toys were treated in emergency departments last year, according to a report from ValuePenguin, an insurance research site from LendingTree. But overall, toy-related injuries are down more than 20 percent over the past decade.</p><p>"You can safely buy toys for your children," said Divya Sangameshwar, an insurance expert at ValuePenguin. "Just make sure that you're buying toys that are safe and age appropriate, and if you want to buy toys, make sure that your children are being supervised when they play with them."</p><p>In a statement to Scripps News, The Toy Association, a U.S. trade group, said it "advocates for children's safety all year long, in contrast to W.A.T.C.H., which is heard from only once or twice per year, and whose false claims are not made by actual safety experts. Their report is riddled with misinformation and serves only to frighten families during what is meant to be a joyous time of year. What's important to know is that by law, all toys sold in the United States must first meet 100+ rigorous safety tests and standards before reaching consumers. ... Families are reminded to choose toys that are appropriate for their child's age, interests, and abilities; to avoid purchasing counterfeit or illegitimate product from rogue or third-party sellers by only shopping from reputable stores and online sellers; and to supervise children during play."</p>

A consumer products watchdog has put out its annual list of dangerous toys ahead of the Christmas shopping season. Read on to see what's considered dangerous this year, and why.

Consumer group warns about dangerous toys ahead of the holidays

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — A Middle Tennessee lawmaker has filed legislation that would limit the use of cellphones in Tennessee classrooms.</p> State Rep. Scott Cepicky (R-Culleoka) filed House Bill 13 , which would require school boards to adopt policies that prohibit students from using "wireless communication devices" during instructional time with certain exceptions.</p> The law is designed to "improve attentiveness in classrooms," according to a press release from the lawmaker.</p><strong>Read the latest from the TN State Capitol Newsroom</strong></p> "Fostering an environment of student engagement and focus during instructional periods is essential to a quality education," Cepicky said. "Cellphone usage in the classroom presents an unnecessary distraction for students and is unfair to the hard-working teachers who are passionate about educating the next generation. This legislation will limit interruptions and empower Tennessee's children to concentrate on learning, which can improve social skills, mental health and academic performance."</p> House Bill 13 would ensure students have access to their cellphones if they are being used for educational purposes and approved by a teacher, in the event of an emergency or to manage a student's health, and to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities.</p> The legislation would allow districts to authorize teachers to withhold devices from students who don't comply with usage policies.</p> In the press release, the lawmaker cited a Pew Research Center study showing over 70% of American high school teachers say distractions caused by cellphones in classrooms is a "major problem." Additional studies, including one from Scientific American , have concluded enacting restrictions on cellphone usage during instructional periods increases academic performance, specifically for low-achieving students, according to the lawmaker.</p><b>MNPD reaches MOU with new Community Review Board</b></p> The same Pew Research Center study also cautioned that most high school teachers felt cellphone ban policies were difficult to enforce, though middle and elementary school teachers felt they were easy to enforce.</p> Several states have enacted similar legislation through their governing bodies, including California, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Ohio, South Carolina, and Virginia, according to KFF .</p> The next legislative session for the Tennessee General Assembly is set to convene on Jan. 14, 2025.</p><i></i></p>

The bill would require school districts to adopt policies that ban cellphone usage in classrooms during instructional time with certain exceptions.

Maury County lawmaker files bill to limit cellphone usage in classrooms

CARTHAGE, Miss. ( WJTV ) – As kids, most of us played with toys. But did you ever think about what goes into making them?</p> Bill Bannister, of Carthage, has been making wooden toys for 20 years. He's the man behind Papa Bill's Wooden Toys, and he sells them to people who ask and at local markets.</p> Bannister started with furniture and then decided he wanted to make something else.</p> "I was always interested in how somebody could take two pieces of wood and put them together and make the scene disappear. And my wife called me in one afternoon and said, 'You come watch this. This is Norm Abram of New Yankee Workshop.' I watched every episode for six months and ordered some plans for them and made my first furniture," he said. "Then my grandson came along, and he saw my an airplane and a magazine. He got all excited. He wanted one, so I took it out my shop and about a week later, I came up with the airplane, and I got to thinking, I don't need a big shop, so I started making toys."</p> Camp Kamassa </p> Every toy Bannister makes is a testament to his attention to detail and skill. It's a skill that he taught himself over the years, but not every piece comes out perfect.</p> "It gets aggravating when you've got an expensive piece of wood, and you make the wrong cut. And that piece is now junk, and you can't use it anymore," he said.</p> But Bannister said his favorite part about making toys is seeing the reactions from children.</p> "It's lot of fun, you see, especially making it. But when you go to a show that was in Clinton last week, we had a guy, a little boy came up, he was in a wheelchair, and he had a tube in his throat, and he was physically he wasn't real good, but he saw my pickup trucks, and he fell in love with them. And we gave him the cattle truck," he said.</p> If you want to reach out to Bannister about the toys, his number is 601-624-6620.</p></p></p> Watch for us in your inbox.</p> Subscribe Now</p> Daily News</h1><i></i></p>

CARTHAGE, Miss. (WJTV) – As kids, most of us played with toys. But did you ever think about what goes into making them? Bill Bannister, of Carthage, has been making wooden toys for 20 years. He’s the man behind Papa Bill’s Wooden Toys, and he sells them to people who ask and at local markets. […]

Papa Bill’s Wooden Toys

WICHITA FALLS ( KFDX/KJTL ) — Wichita Falls employees can no longer access TikTok on city-issued devices.</p> The city moves to comply with Senate Bill 1893, which requires all panels of government in the state to remove TikTok from city or government-issued devices.</p> Medicare Open Enrollment deadline looms: Clay County clears up misinformation </p> According to city attorney Kinley Hegglund, the city needed to be in compliance by Wednesday, November 20, 2024.</p> The city's social media policy has been updated to state that 'an employee found to violate the policy is subject to disciplinary action or termination'.</p> "We've been working on this for a while," Hegglund said. "We think it's a good policy and I just want to make it clear that it's applicable, not just to the employees, but to all staff and council members. I know we all have city devices. We have to all make sure that we don't have TikTok either."</p> The app is facing a national ban after President Biden signed a law to ban TikTok or force its sale to a U.S. company.</p></p></p> Watch for us in your inbox.</p> Subscribe Now</p> Daily News</h1><i></i></p>

Wichita Falls employees can no longer access TikTok on city-issued devices.

Wichita Falls City Council moves to ban TikTok on city-issued devices

CENTRE COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) – Centre and Mifflin County Marine Toys for Tots kicked off their holiday season of giving with a breakfast at the Ramada in State College.</p> This year is the 77th anniversary of Marine Toys for Tots. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is a not-for-profit public charity and is the fundraising, funding, and support organization for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program.</p> The Foundation was created by the U. S. Marine Corps and has supported Toys for Tots since 1991.</p> Small Business Saturday gives Ebensburg shoppers a chance to win gift cards </p> The mission of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November, and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children all over the nation. The organization has been able to provide many families with a happy holiday since its start.</p> "677 million toys, books, and other gifts to 301 million economically disadvantaged children," Centre County Toys for Tots Coordinator Gene Weller said.</p> The message during the kickoff breakfast was to ensure every child has a gift to open during the holidays.</p> "Success in the past that will continue this Christmas is dependent on all of you," Jack Infield, the President of Centre First Bank 7 Honorary Chair said.</p> In Centre County alone in 2023, Toys for Tots distributed over 18,000 toys to over 9,000 children. Even in a thriving community, some families can't afford the gifts which leaves many Christmas trees empty on the big day.</p> "People believe we have a fluent community with the university dominants and do not realize the economic challenges many families face. Without what you do, many children would go through Christmas without a visit from Santa. And all children deserve to have that special feeling of joy and excitement, w get to provide the Christmas," Infield said.</p> At donation centers in Centre County, families are given a black bag that has toys, a book, and a stuffed animal for the kids. The may be small items, buy they can still bring so much joy to kids.</p> "Whatever the situation is, you have kids in your life who are looking forward to gifts under the tree. This year, and you don't have the means to get them. The four gifts, the one book, one stuffed animal, and one stocking stuffer are the only things that they'll find under the tree this year," Youth Pastor at Park Forest Baptist Church Jon Atkinson said.</p> Volunteers will be placing the items in a 13-gallon bag identified by the age and gender of the child. There will be a limit of 75 volunteers per session so pre-registration will be required.</p> Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! .</h4> More information on the schedule and preregistration can be found at the Marine Toys for Tots website. You can also follow the link here to donate, request a toy, or donate a toy.</p><i></i></p>

CENTRE COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) – Centre and Mifflin County Marine Toys for Tots kicked off their holiday season of giving with a breakfast at the Ramada in State College. This year is the 77th anniversary of Marine Toys for Tots. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is a not-for-profit public charity and is the fundraising, […]

Toys for Tots granting Christmas wishes in Centre, Mifflin County

<p>Dan Bracaglia is the Tom's Guide editorial lead for all things smartwatches, fitness trackers and outdoor gear. With 15 years of experience as a consumer technology journalist testing everything from Apple Watches to instant cameras, Dan is deeply passionate about helping readers save money and make informed purchasing decisions. In 2024 so far, Dan's tested dozens of wearables, including the latest devices from Apple, Google, Garmin, Fitbit and Samsung.</p><p>An avid outdoor adventurer, Dan is based in the U.S. Pacific Northwest where he takes advantage of the beautiful surroundings every chance he gets. A lover of kayaking, hiking, swimming, biking, snowboarding and more, he also makes every effort to combine his day job with his passions. When not assessing the GPS and heart rate accuracy of the latest Fitbit, you can find him photographing Seattle's vibrant underground music community.</p>

Black Friday is right around the corner, and we’re tracking the best deals on smart rings from Oura, Samsung, Amazfit and more.

Black Friday smart ring deals — best sales now on Oura Ring, Galaxy Ring and more

<p><strong> Ever listen to music through your phone's tiny speakers? Or crank tunes by popping $50 buds in your ears? Or play tracks on a Bluetooth speaker the size of a juice can? Then you're missing something: the amazing, jaw-dropping, shockingly pricey sound of audiophile-quality music.</strong></p><p>You could hear a pin drop, if it weren't for today's earth-shattering audio news: McIntosh Group—parent company of some of the world's highest-end luxury audio brands, including McIntosh and Sonus faber—has been acquired from the Dallas-based private investment firm Highlander Partners by Bose Corporation. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.</p><p>You may have been wowed by Bose speakers at Best Buy. But if you don't know McIntosh, you don't know what your ears have been missing. The company's ultra-luxe equipment still relies on vacuum tube technology from yesteryear—updated with today's latest cutting-edge technology (as seen in the photo above). </p><h3>$1 million sound system</h3><p>How high-end are we talking? </p><p>Last January, 75-year-old McIntosh and its Italian sister brand Sonus faber debuted a $1 million anniversary sound system at CES 2024. </p><p>Too rich for your blood? How 'bout a pair of speakers? You could buy two McIntosh XRT2.1K Floorstanding Loudspeakers for just $140,000 . (That's $151,550 with tax, but delivery is free.)</p><p>Hearing Jelly Roll's "I Am Not OK" on those speakers could make you feel very much more than OK, once your eargasms subside. But guess what might spoil it? Hearing the same track over Sonus faber's $750,000 Suprema 2.2 speaker system , featuring 242-pound speaker towers with leather panels made by Italian furniture brand Poltrona. </p><p>That's how high-end we're talking.</p><h3>Parting with legendary audio brands</h3><p>"McIntosh is a legendary American brand, and Sonus faber is the definition of fine art in the audio world," Jeff Hull, president and CEO of Highlander Partners, said in a statement. "We're honored to have been stewards of these businesses. We're proud of what we accomplished and believe McIntosh and Sonus faber have tremendous growth potential. We're excited to watch these brands reach new heights under Bose's ownership."</p><h3>Uniting 'more than 175 years of combined, deep technical expertise'</h3><p>Bose said the acquisition "unites industry pioneers with more than 175 years of combined, deep technical expertise, a dedication to craftmanship and artistry, and an unwavering commitment to reaching passionate music fans around the world."</p><p>The deal will allow Bose to infuse its "industry-leading" audio research and technology into the high-performance and luxury space, the company said, while it continues to build on its premium solutions. Bose and McIntosh Group will now offer consumers "a breadth of products and experiences for every listening occasion," the company added.</p><p>"Over the last six decades we've delivered the best premium audio experiences possible; now, with McIntosh Group in our portfolio, we can unlock even more ways to bring music to life in the home, on-the-go and in the car," Bose CEO Lila Snyder said in a statement. "We look forward to honoring the heritage of these brands, investing in their future, and pushing the boundaries of audio innovation to bring customers experiences they've never heard before."</p><p>Daniel Pidgeon, CEO of McIntosh Group, said Bose's dedication to research and singular focus on audio "provides a tremendous opportunity to complement and enable our own pursuit of delivering inimitable, ultimate-quality audio experiences."</p><p>"Gaining access to their expertise as a pioneer in automotive audio will also help us accelerate our presence and enable us to deliver solutions that are commensurate with our reputation and performance standards," Pidgeon added in a statement.</p><p>Katten acted as Highlander's legal counsel in connection with the transaction, with Adacta serving as legal and tax advisors in Italy.</p><h3>About Highlander Partners</h3><p>Operating out of The Crescent in Uptown Dallas, Highlander Partners says it has more than $3 billion in assets under management, and focuses on investing in businesses in targeted industries in which the principals of the firm have significant operating and investing experience. The firm says its "buy-and-build" investment approach creates value by helping companies grow both organically and through acquisitions.</p><h2>Get on the list. Dallas Innovates, every day.</h2> 's new and next in Dallas-Fort Worth, every day.</p>

Ultra audiophile-quality products from McIntosh feature the vacuum tubes of yesteryear updated with the latest technology. But truly hearing that hushed whisper in a Billie Eilish song can set you back—in January, the company debuted a $1 million sound system at CES 2024.

A Sound Deal: Dallas' Highlander Partners Sells McIntosh Group to Bose Corp.

<p><p>Nov. 19 (UPI) - Bose Corp. has bought out McIntosh Group, solidifying its entry into the high-end market with its purchase of one of its industry's most celebrated audio equipment manufacturers.</p></p><p>Over the last six decades, Bose has delivered "premium" audio experiences and with MacIntosh added to its portfolio, "we can unlock even more ways to bring music to life in the home, on-the-go and in the car," Bose CEO Lila Snyder said in a release.</p><p>The transaction was finalized on Friday. No changes are expected to take place.</p><p>McIntosh Group has been a leader in the high-end audio equipment market for decades, producing amplifiers, speakers, turntables and other audio products as parent company of multiple brands that include McIntosh, Sumiko Phono Cartridges and more.</p><p>Headquartered in Binghamton, N.Y., McIntosh was founded in 1949. The Dallas-based Highlander Partners LP first acquired MacIntosh in June 2022.</p><p>Highlander's own CEO sung praise on leadership, calling MacIntosh President Charlie Randall and its Group CEO Dan Pidgeon "incredible partners" over the course of Highland's ownership, adding that the two men "allowed the company to continue to flourish."</p><p>"We look forward to honoring the heritage of these brands, investing in their future and pushing the boundaries of audio innovation to bring customers experiences they've never heard before," the Bose chief says.</p><p>Jeff L. Hull, Highlander Partners' CEO, said Tuesday in a release that the company is "proud" of what it accomplished as its prior owner, adding he believes companies McIntosh and Sonus faber "have tremendous growth potential," he added.</p><p>Snyder, who took on the CEO job in 2020, told CNBC the transaction was an "opportunity for luxury" where a consumer is "more discerning, really interested in the heritage and the story, and that handcrafted nature."</p><p>Hull later retired Snyder's comments, adding that MacIntosh a "legendary American brand" and its Italy-based Sonus faber is "the definition of fine art in the audio world."</p><p>"We are excited to watch these brands reach new heights under Bose's ownership," Hull said.</p>

The Bose Corp. has bought-out McIntosh Group solidifying its entry into the high-end market with its purchase of one of the tech industry's most noted, high-end equipment manufacturer.

No changes planned as Bose Corp. buys New York

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Reddit and TikTok freak out over a big black truck with a machine gun mounted in the truck bed on Dallas freeways.

Dallas Sounds Off After Truck With Machine Gun Spotted on I-35

<p>A new soon-to-open jail in Orange County will offer prisoners more positive opportunities and visitors a new way of interacting with incarcerated inmates, all while increasing safety for everyone at the facility. </p><p>The new James A. Musick Facility , a medium-security jail in Irvine, was the subject of a $256 million project "designed to meet the needs of an evolving jail population," the Orange County Sheriff's Department said. It replaces the old James A. Musick Facility, which consisted of multiple temporary structures and closed in 2019.</p><p>Included in the 324,000 square-foot facility are 896 beds, direct-supervision housing units and contemporary medical and programming facilities. A 512-bed building with an administration component will be joined by a 384-bed program building, officials said. </p><p> KTLA 5 Orange County Bureau Chief Chip Yost got a look at the new correctional center, and the changes begin right as you walk in; rather than a typical jail visitation area with a window in between the visitor and inmate, visitors will now communicate via a tablet device while the inmate remains in their housing unit, also communicating via tablet. </p><p>The jail was built in a way that minimizes inmate movement, officials told Yost. They said they are looking to keep inmates inside their living areas as often as possible, and that not having to move them regularly will help with that. </p><p>An example of this is bringing prisoners to the chow hall; rather than escorting them there, meals will be served in their living areas. That way, officials said, they don't have to lock down other parts of the facility as often, and it also gives the inmates more out-of-cell time. </p><p>And while it is still a prison, Orange County Sheriff's Department officials said Tuesday that the facility was designed with inmate rehabilitation in mind. </p><p>"The design features softer colors and the furniture can be moved about...it's not industrial and stainless steel," said OCSD Commander Mark Alsobrook. "Having landscapes and seascapes in each of the housing units – which also act as sound dampeners – contribute to the mindset of the incarcerated person and [allow them to] receive those educational opportunities and take part in their own transition to prepare to go back to the community." </p><p>Also included in the facility are body scanners that Alsobrook says are "much like you would see at the airport" and provide a less invasive search for illegal contraband inmates may be trying to sneak in.</p><p>"Each housing unit will be assigned personnel who will remain inside the module 24 hours a day, allowing for direct interaction with incarcerated persons to encourage positive behavior and identify any potential issues before they escalate," the sheriff's department said in a press release . "The design also limits movement throughout the facility while bringing services directly to those in custody, creating a safer environment that emphasizes education and rehabilitation."</p><p>"Aesthetic components of the facility include large-scale colorful murals and more natural light, which are features shown to benefit mental health and stimulate a calming environment," OCSD's release continued.</p><p> The original James A. Musick Facility opened in 1963 in what was once "a largely undeveloped area miles from any incorporated city" and was initially a minimum-security jail, Orange County officials said. </p><p>In fact, when the facility first opened, security was so lax that a former employee testified that inmates could "walk around on their own" and that fencing was allegedly only erected to keep neighboring cattle from eating produce grown at the jail. </p><p>Due to its agricultural beginnings, the jail was nicknamed "The Farm," but its official name comes from James A. Musick, who served as Orange County Sheriff from 1946 to 1974. </p><p>Presently, the facility is surrounded on three sides by the city of Irvine and on one side by the Bake Parkway, which is part of the city Lake Forest.</p><p>If all goes according to plan, it should open up sometime in early December, more than four years after construction started in Aug. 2020.</p>

A new soon-to-open jail in Orange County will offer prisoners more positive opportunities and visitors a new way of interacting with incarcerated inmates, all while increasing safety for everyone at the facility.  The new James A. Musick Facility, a medium-security jail in Irvine, was the subject of a $256 million project “designed to meet the […]

Soon-to-open Southern California jail welcomes new technology, opportunities for inmates

<h2>Which travel duffel bags are best?</h2><p>Whether you're headed to the gym or the airport, a quality duffel bag can make packing and traveling so much simpler. From sports equipment to clothing, these spacious and versatile bags have you covered.</p><p>But with so many variations in both materials and designs, knowing which duffel bag is right for you can be tough. That's why we've broken down everything you need to know in our shopping guide below. We've even added some bag recommendations at the end, including our top pick, the versatile Adidas Team Issue 2 Duffel Bag , which includes plenty of pockets to stash your gear in.</p><h2><strong>What to considerations before choosing a duffel bag</strong></h2><h3></h3><p>Duffel bags are available in a variety of sizes with interior capacities ranging from about 25-75 liters.</p><p>A smaller duffel bag may be used as a gym bag, carry-on luggage, or just a simple everyday bag for work and school. Large duffel bags, on the other hand, are ideal when packing for long vacations or transporting team sports equipment.</p><h3></h3><p>Having a zipper that always gets stuck or cheap material that wears and tears easily can be beyond frustrating when you're on the go. Look for a bag with quality stitching around the seams and handles to avoid tears. Self-repairing zippers and tough materials, such as leather, thick vinyl, or sturdy nylon will, also indicate a durable bag.</p><h3><strong>Regular vs. wheeled</strong></h3><p>Generally speaking, there are two main types of duffel bags: those with wheels and those without.</p><li><strong>Regular duffel bags</strong> are usually simple in design. You can expect some type of crossbody or shoulder strap, a handle, and a large zippered interior. These types of duffel bags are flexible and can be easily stored in a gym locker or overhead storage compartment, making them ideal for daily, multipurpose use.</li><li><strong>Wheeled duffel bags </strong>make traveling with a heavy load significantly easier. Keep in mind that for all of the convenience they offer, wheeled duffel bags may be more difficult to store in tight spaces.</li><h2><strong>Duffel bag features</strong></h2><h3><strong>Straps and handles</strong></h3><p>While simpler duffel bags may only feature one crossbody strap, others often feature a variety of straps and handles to make carrying your bag as easy as possible in any situation. Smaller handles on the top can come in handy when lifting your bag out of the car. Duffel bags with wheels often include an extendable luggage handle as well.</p><h3><strong>Compartments and pockets</strong></h3><p>A spacious interior is great for storing lots of items, but without additional compartments and pockets, your bag can quickly turn into an unorganized mess. If you plan on packing numerous smaller items into your bag like headphones, water bottles, etc, look for a bag that offers plenty of interior organization.</p><p>Duffel bags on the higher end of the price spectrum may even come with special ventilated compartments that are perfect for separating damp gym clothes or shoes from the rest of the contents of the bag.</p><h3><strong>Color and design</strong></h3><p>When choosing the perfect duffel bag, it's important to remember that you don't need to sacrifice style for functionality. Whether you're looking for vibrant neon colors or something more professional made from luxurious leather, there's a bag design out there for everyone.</p><h3></h3><p>More modestly priced duffel bags are typically constructed from materials that offer at least a little water resistance. This means you can likely run from the gym to your car in a rain shower without soaking the contents of your bag. However, if you plan on taking your duffel on a longer outdoor adventure, look for a bag that's constructed from a water-repellent material such as vinyl. Some bags have a water-resistant coating and reinforced seams as well, which will further protect your belongings from getting wet.</p><h2><strong>Duffel bag price</strong></h2><p>You can expect to pay anywhere from $10-$150 or more for a duffel bag. Materials, design, size, and special features are all factors that will determine how much or how little you will pay. Typically, you can find high-quality, spacious bags with plenty of compartments in the $20-$40 range, while luxury and brand-name bags can cost from $50-$150.</p><h2><strong>Duffel bag FAQ</strong></h2><h3><strong>Q. How do I wash my duffel bag?</strong></h3><p>This will vary from bag to bag based on construction and materials. For the best results, always consult the manufacturer's washing instructions.</p><h3><strong>Q. What are daisy chains?</strong></h3><p>Daisy chains, often found on duffel bags and backpacks, are a string of webbing loops. These loops, while not a necessity, allow you to clip extra gear to the outside of your bag.</p><h2><strong>Best duffel bags</strong></h2><h3><strong>Top duffel bag</strong></h3><p> Adidas Team Issue 2 Duffel Bag </p><p><strong>What you need to know: </strong>This is a versatile duffel bag from a trusted brand, and it's ideal for going to the gym or traveling.</p><p><strong>What you'll love: </strong>It features a water-resistant bottom and ventilated sides to help air out wet clothes or shoes. The spacious interior with many pockets is perfect for staying organized. It's available in a wide range of colors.</p><p><strong>What you should consider: </strong>The pockets are a little small.</p><h3><strong>Top duffel bag for the money</strong></h3><p> PUMA Evercat Contender Duffel Bag </p><p><strong>What you need to know: </strong>This versatile bag is perfect for workouts.</p><p><strong>What you'll love: </strong>It has zippered pockets and a padded bottom to protect things inside as you set the bag down. It also has pockets big enough to put shoes inside.</p><p><strong>What you should consider: </strong>Some people have said that it's not as durable as they would like.</p><h3><strong>Worth checking out</strong></h3><p> Nike's Brasilia Training Duffel Bag </p><p><strong>What you need to know: </strong>This well-structured duffel bag has a range of features ideal for those who frequent the gym.</p><p><strong>What you'll love: </strong>It has a spacious interior that could fit a week's worth of outfits. There are plenty of additional compartments for the organization of smaller items. It has a water-resistant base and a separate space to store dirty gym clothes or shoes.</p><p><strong>What you should consider: </strong>The bag might be too large to use as a carry-on when traveling.</p><p>Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.</p><p>Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.</p>

Whether you’re headed to the gym or the airport, a quality duffel bag can make packing and traveling so much simpler. These versatile bags have you covered.

Pack smarter with these must-have duffel bags

<h2>Which Hamilton Beach coffee maker is best?</h2><p>Hamilton Beach has a solid reputation for affordable, reliable small kitchen appliances. Their diverse coffee maker line, including nearly a dozen models, lives up to the same standard.</p><p>There's a Hamilton Beach coffee maker for everyone, from single-serve models to those that offer more than one brewing method. The Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Coffee Maker has strong, flavorful brews whether you're making just one or 12 cups of coffee at a time.</p><h2>Key considerations for Hamilton Beach coffee makers</h2><h3>Brewing capacity</h3><p>Traditional Hamilton Beach coffee makers, which have carafes, are available in 10-, 12- and 14-cup sizes. The brand also has single-serve coffee makers that brew 6 to 14 ounces in mugs or travel cups. More recently, Hamilton Beach has introduced the FlexBrew line. These models brew in both 12-cup carafes and single-serve cups up to 14 ounces.</p><h3>Dispensing method</h3><p>Hamilton Beach offers a few carafe coffee makers, which remain popular for large-batch brewing. Additionally, other models drip coffee directly into cups or mugs, and not just single-serve machines. Hamilton Beach now has larger-capacity models with enclosed brewing systems that drip up to 12 individual cups of coffee on a full tank.</p><h3></h3><p>As far as filters go, most Hamilton Beach coffee makers require basket paper filters. There are a few models with woven mesh filters that can be hand-washed. Certain single-serve Hamilton Beach coffee makers have removable mesh scoop filters.</p><h2>What to look for in a quality Hamilton Beach coffee maker</h2><h3>Dual-purpose coffee makers</h3><p>Hamilton Beach's FlexBrew line includes dual-purpose coffee makers for single-cup and multi-cup brewing. These models offer quick, mess-free transitions between these options.</p><p>However, the FlexBrew line is expensive, plus these models have some of the largest footprints.</p><h3>Carafe material</h3><p>Most Hamilton Beach coffee makers on the market have glass carafes with heat-resistant plastic details. Many of them are top-rack dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. Some Hamilton Beach models still use stainless steel carafes, but they're less popular and much harder to find.</p><h3>Warming features</h3><p>Many Hamilton Beach coffee makers have warming plates or internal warming systems that maintain a brew's optimal temperature. These models typically warm coffee for up to 4 hours, after which time they automatically shut off for safety reasons.</p><h3>Alexa integration</h3><p>Some newer Hamilton Beach coffee makers have Alexa integration. These models give users app or voice control over brewing settings, programs and timers. The smart coffee maker also sends notifications once brewing is complete.</p><h3>Other types of Hamilton Beach coffee makers</h3><p>While automatic Hamilton Beach coffee makers sell the most, the brand offers some pour-over coffee makers, percolators, coffee urns and French presses:</p><li><strong>Pour-over coffee makers</strong> are said to deliver a superior flavor to other types of brewing.</li><li>, which continuously brew coffee until it reaches optimal strength, make robust, bold brews.</li><li>Hamilton Beach <strong>coffee urns</strong>, available in up to 60-cup capacities, are often used for parties, offices and commercial settings.</li><li>Many appreciate <strong>French presses</strong> for the full-bodied brews bursting with flavor.</li><h2>How much you can expect to spend on Hamilton Beach Coffee Makers</h2><p>Entry-level Hamilton Beach coffee makers , including some single-serve models, cost $50 or less. Programmable models that brew up to 12 cups of coffee cost closer to $80, while those with premium brewing features run $100 or more.</p><h2>Hamilton Beach coffee makers FAQ</h2><h3>Are Hamilton Beach coffee makers available in more than one finish?</h3><p>For the most part, Hamilton Beach coffee makers are available in black and stainless steel finishes. Fortunately, matching these Hamilton Beach coffee makers to most kitchen appliances is easy. The brand occasionally releases additional colors for bestselling models in white or red.</p><h3>How do I clean my Hamilton Beach coffee maker?</h3><p>Refer to the user manual for manufacturer recommendations, as deviating from these instructions or using certain products may damage internal components. A popular recommendation, however, is using a descaling solution to remove limescale buildup within the machine.</p><h2>What's the best Hamilton Beach coffee maker to buy?</h2><h3>Top Hamilton Beach coffee maker</h3><p> Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Coffee Maker </p><p><strong>What you need to know: </strong>Hamilton Beach FlexBrew 2-Way Coffee Maker is a dynamic model that brews 12-cup carafes and single cups with pods or ground coffee.</p><p><strong>What you'll love: </strong>It has a user-friendly design with a visible water tank and dishwasher-safe parts. The carafe warmer automatically shuts off after 2 hours, and the reservoir is easy to access and fill.</p><p><strong>What you should consider: </strong>It has a large footprint, and only the carafe side has programming features.</p><h3>Top Hamilton Beach coffee maker for the money</h3><p> Hamilton Beach 12-Cup BrewStation </p><p><strong>What you need to know: </strong>This classic coffee maker brews up to 12 cups without the hassle of a glass carafe.</p><p><strong>What you'll love: </strong>It dispenses coffee directly into cups, including travel mugs and tumblers. The internal warming function keeps coffee hot and fresh, it is programmable up to 24 hours in advance and it has an auto-shutoff feature.</p><p><strong>What you should consider: </strong>It's a tall model that needs to be pulled from beneath cabinets to access the lid.</p><h3>Worth checking out</h3><p> Hamilton Beach Scoop Single-Serve Coffee Maker </p><p><strong>What you need to know: </strong>An affordable single-serve model, this Hamilton Beach coffee maker is popular for offices and small spaces.</p><p><strong>What you'll love: </strong>It has a customizable brewing strength, brews in mugs up to 14 ounces, the stainless steel design has curb appeal and is easy to keep clean, and it has a few built-in safety features.</p><p><strong>What you should consider: </strong>The small reservoir requires frequent refilling.</p><p>Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.</p><p>Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.</p>

Hamilton Beach has a solid reputation for affordable, reliable small kitchen appliances.

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