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Rita will give away free Italian ice cream on the first day of spring 2026

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The first day of spring on Friday, March 20th means Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard giveaways.

Customers who visit any of Rita’s more than 600 stores nationwide on March 20th will receive a free 6-ounce Italian ice cream. With a selection of flavors to choose from, the new Mystery Peeps Italian Ice flavor will be available for a limited time on Friday, March 20th.

If you choose the mystery flavor, it will be served as white Italian ice with a secret flavor profile. Guess the flavor for a chance to win a free Rita’s Ice or Rita’s + Peeps Swag Pack for a year (5 winners randomly selected from correct entries will enter online).

Rita’s will also be adding Peeps Marshmallow Chick toppers to top this spring treat.

“For so many, the Rita’s and Peeps brands are associated with the simple joys and sweet memories that symbolize spring,” Carmela Hughley, senior vice president of marketing insights and innovation for Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard, said in a news release. “This collaboration brings together two iconic brands to create a Mystery Italian Ice that feels playful, nostalgic and mysterious, while encouraging guests to interact with each product like never before.”

How to get free Italian ice cream at Rita’s on March 20th

Visit any Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard store on Friday, March 20th to claim your freebie. Find your nearest Rita’s store at www.ritasice.com/locations/.

As part of its annual giveaway, Rita’s will give away approximately 1 million cups of Italian ice cream.

Mike Snyder is a national trends news reporter for USA TODAY. You can follow him on Threads, Bluesky, and X, and email him at: mike snyder & @mikegsnider.bsky.social & @mikesnider & msnider@usatoday.com.

California and other states challenge President Trump’s repeal of greenhouse gas protections

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California will co-lead a coalition challenging President Donald Trump’s administration’s recent decision to rescind the Environmental Protection Agency’s landmark climate findings targeting greenhouse gases.

Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced on March 19 that the state of California, along with 25 attorneys general, the governor of Pennsylvania, and 10 cities and counties, has filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration over the EPA’s recent decision to rescind the EPA’s “hazard finding,” which has been the legal basis for regulations targeting man-made greenhouse gases for nearly two decades.

“We are challenging the Trump administration’s unlawful decision to roll back one of our nation’s most important climate programs,” Bonta said at a news conference. “The federal government is trying to overturn science and eliminate protections that limit harmful pollution from vehicles, the nation’s largest source of greenhouse gases.”

In 2009, the Obama administration’s EPA released its Endangerment Findings, which concluded that six greenhouse gases pose a significant threat to public health and contribute to worsening environmental conditions. These findings served as the basis for passage of the Clean Air Act, which imposed emission standards on cars, trucks, and power plants.

In announcing the decision, President Trump argued that rescinding these environmental protections would ultimately help Americans by starting to “fall” in car costs, and that the study’s findings had no “factual basis.”

On February 12, President Trump said, “We are officially ending so-called ‘risk finding,’ a disastrous Obama-era policy that severely damaged the American auto industry.”

The president described this moment as “the greatest deregulatory move in American history.”

EPA’s action to reverse the 2009 findings would ultimately eliminate the federal government’s ability to enforce environmental protections against greenhouse gas pollution from cars and trucks.

“This is not a small technical change. This is a sweeping decision that will increase pollution, exacerbate climate change, and endanger the health of millions of Americans,” Bonta said at a news conference.

“Greenhouse gas emissions will increase because the federal government is stepping back from its role in properly regulating greenhouse gases.”

Newsom: “President Trump’s decision will hurt America and boost China’s EVs”

When President Trump announced his decision to reverse the EPA’s findings, Newsom vowed to sue. This week, he did not hold back from criticizing the president’s actions.

“Since 2009, we’ve known the obvious: Greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide (and) methane, are negatively impacting our public health and our nation’s economic prosperity,” Newsom said. “The only people who can see it differently are Donald Trump and his big donors.”

Newsom said that before the creation of the EPA and policies to address smog and pollution in the state, greenhouse gases played a significant role in the poor air quality that has affected Californians for decades.

“Los Angeles was almost uninhabitable, and it could happen again,” Newsom said. “They want to make the pollution serious again. That’s the problem.”

He also emphasized that the EPA’s loosening of regulations and greenhouse gas emissions policies could hurt modern Californians as the state faces an increase in natural disasters due to climate change.

“They want to recreate the 19th century. California is about the future. We’re about transformation, not restoration. We’re not about nostalgia. We’re not second-guessing fools,” Newsom said. “We have been here before, and our action is not to be victims or bystanders of this attack on common sense, science, public health, and lived reality, but to seek to shape the future.”

Notably, California Environmental Protection Secretary Yana Garcia said that while President Trump’s decision affected federal policy, it did not affect the state’s ability to regulate greenhouse gas emissions.

In 2006, the California General Assembly passed AB 32 (California Global Warming Mitigation Act of 2006), requiring businesses to participate in significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the state to 1990 levels by 2020.

“AB 32 remains unchanged,” Garcia said. “California Air Resources Board, we are advancing our climate change program. We remain steadfastly committed to protecting public health.”

One of President Trump’s main justifications for rescinding the EPA findings was that the agency would help the U.S. auto industry by eliminating federal regulations.

Newsom argued that the decision could ultimately have a negative impact on the U.S. auto market because the federal government is discouraging U.S. automakers from developing electric vehicles in favor of gasoline-powered vehicles.

By contrast, Newsom said the United States is being “left behind,” pointing to Beijing’s investment in the electric vehicle industry, which has become a major player in the global market.

Earlier this year, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney agreed to a plan with China to begin importing EVs into the North American market, where imports have been blocked for years by a tariff agreement with the United States.

Noe Padilla is a Northern California reporter for USA Today. To contact him, npadilla@usatodayco.comX Follow him at @1NoePadilla or Bluesky @noepadilla.bsky.social..

Some soldiers banned from wearing uniforms off base during Iran war

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Since the U.S. began its war with Iran, military bases on the U.S. mainland have banned service members from wearing their uniforms outside the base, amid growing threats of retaliatory attacks against soldiers.

After the United States and Israel launched their first joint attack on Iran on February 28, U.S. military bases in the Middle East came under heavy fire from Iranian missiles and drones, killing seven U.S. troops stationed in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Then an air tanker crash in Iraq killed six soldiers and injured at least 200 others across the Middle East.

Threats to U.S. forces are not limited to combat zones. Bases in the United States are closed in response to reports of active shooters, suspicious packages, and other unidentified threats. Since the war began, many military bases in the continental United States have tightened security, banning visitors and ordering service members to change out of their uniforms when leaving the premises.

Shooting incident at US military base, suspicious package found

March 16th, report A suspicious package was found near the entrance gate to MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, home to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), causing the gate to be closed. Later FBI Tampa office said It is said that “something that may be an energy substance” was found inside the package. macdill issued Two days later, on March 18, a shelter-in-place order was issued citing an unknown and targeted “threat.” CENTCOM is the military branch leading operations in the Iran war. It’s unclear whether the threats are related.

On March 17, officials at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in southern New Jersey announced that a “suspicious package” had been discovered on the base, prompting a lockdown. They later determined that the package posed no threat.

Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico was placed on lockdown the same day due to reports of an active shooter. According to reports, a veteran was killed and an active duty military member was injured.

It is unclear whether these incidents are related to the Middle East wars. Local authorities said an investigation is ongoing. However, several separate U.S. attacks since the beginning of the war have been investigated as terrorism, including the shooting of a Virginia Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) class. On March 12, a man serving time for conspiring with the Islamic State group opened fire on an ROTC class at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, killing the class instructor, Lt. Col. Brandon Shah.

Uniforms prohibited for soldiers off base

Military installations have tightened security, and some areas have banned service members from wearing uniforms outside bases. On March 13, Fort Huachuca Army Base in Arizona, which houses more than 5,600 military personnel, received an order banning soldiers from wearing their uniforms outside the base “to ensure that military protection efforts are consistent with current global conditions,” according to a copy of the order obtained by USA TODAY.

“This prohibition applies to all off-post activities, including but not limited to eating, shopping, and appointments,” the order says.

Army Combined Command issued a similar order to its members on the same day, according to spokesman Lt. Col. Brien Freigo. The order is “a prudent, proactive step aimed at reducing visibility and is not in response to an identified or credible threat,” he told USA TODAY in an email.

The Pentagon referred questions about these bans to U.S. Northern Command, which said there are no blanket bans on U.S. military bases.

A temporary ban was also issued on February 28 at Shaw Air Force Base, east of Columbia, South Carolina, stating that military personnel are “no longer permitted” to wear their uniforms off base. The base rescinded this policy on March 15.

In an emailed statement, the Navy did not say whether it had banned the use of the uniform off-base, but said it was “implementing additional force protection measures” to “reduce the vulnerability of our service members,” including changes to uniform policy in certain situations. On the day the war began, Naval Support Activity Facility Annapolis, located across the river from the Naval Academy in Maryland, announced increased security at its entrance gates and canceled all public visitation “as a result of the current world situation,” according to a Facebook post.

Recent attacks on US bases related to the Middle East conflict

At least two other attacks in recent weeks are reportedly linked to the ongoing war in the Middle East.

Police say the gunman who killed two people and injured more than a dozen others at an Austin bar on March 1 was wearing an Iranian flag shirt, according to videos and photos shared online.

Less than two weeks later, police said Ayman Mohammad Ghazali, 41, was killed after driving a truck into a Michigan synagogue and exchanging gunfire with police. Local leaders in Dearborn Heights said Ghazali’s family in Lebanon had been killed days earlier in an Israeli attack that swept the country and killed hundreds on another front in the Iran war.

across-the-board prohibitions common in recent U.S. wars

Steve Gabavics, a retired Army colonel who served in the military police for decades, estimates that threats to bases have increased by 10 to 15 percent as a result of the Iran war.

Gabavics said it’s not new for the military to tighten security on bases and facilities in response to U.S. wars overseas, such as restricting service members from wearing uniforms off base. “I’ve seen it every time there’s been a major international conflict,” he said.

Gabaviks, who commanded military police across the Military District of Washington, said there may have been dozens of Iranian-linked sleeper cells in the Washington, D.C., area and about 100 scattered across the country during his service.

But the greater threat to military personnel likely comes from ideologically inspired “lone wolf” attackers, he said.

Last November, two uniformed National Guard soldiers on patrol were gunned down a few blocks from the White House. Sarah Beckstrom, 20, of Summersville, West Virginia, was killed and another soldier was seriously injured. Rahmanullah Rakanwar, a 29-year-old Afghan man arrested and charged in the shooting, worked with the violent CIA-backed Zero Squad during the U.S. occupation of the country.

Soldiers in uniform do indeed “make a target,” Gabaviks said. “We’re trying to make sure that people who want to do things like this aren’t easy targets.”

Whole foods? Walmart? Grocery stores hold clues to home prices

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What do local grocery stores say about your neighborhood?

It may seem like a no-brainer. Whole Foods stores tend to be located in more expensive and affluent areas, while discount stores like Dollar General are located in less affluent areas. However, a recent analysis found that store openings are highly related to how grocery chains anticipate neighborhood demographics and housing price trends.

The report is written by Aziz Sunderj, who worked for many years at an investment bank before starting a newsletter called Home Economics. For his analysis, he collated more than 32,000 store openings and home price data over nearly 50 years and added census demographics.

Sundarj found that home prices not only rose in ZIP codes where Trader Joe’s opened, but rose 6% faster than the national average over the next three years. But in ZIP codes where Walmart opened, home prices were 4% below the national average.

Will the rich get richer and the poor get poorer?

“I think people who are looking for a location for a Trader Joe’s or a Walmart are looking for an area that is changing in a way that is beneficial to them,” Sundarj told USA TODAY.

For example, Trader Joe’s may select “well-educated, relatively high-income people, (but) not necessarily in the most expensive areas,” he said.

Residents in areas where Trader Joe’s stores open are more likely to be college-educated, with 52% holding a bachelor’s degree, tied with Whole Foods for the highest percentage of any chain and well above the national average, Sundarj said in his analysis. The median household income in these areas was $82,000, also the highest of any chain, and the median home price before the stores opened was $425,000.

In contrast, Wal-Mart’s customers are “slightly lower income and probably live in areas where home price growth is slower. They live in areas that are somewhat economically stagnant,” he said.

A typical Walmart store is located in an area where the median household income is $49,000, 23% of adults have a college degree, and home prices are $144,000, one-third of the home prices in Trader Joe’s ZIP codes.

Sundarj believes the disparate fortunes between the Wal-Mart and Trader Joe’s districts tell a larger story. “The grocery store story is kind of a window into the broader story of what’s going on in America about affordability and inequality,” he says. These retailers are taking advantage of an unfortunate reality about the American economy in recent years. In other words, companies at the top of the income and wealth divide are doing better, while those at the bottom are faring less well.

“The K-shaped economy is running down the aisles of grocery stores,” Sundarj wrote in the report.

James Comey subpoenaed in 2016 election, Russia investigation

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Former FBI Director James Comey has been subpoenaed as part of a Justice Department investigation into whether Obama administration officials violated laws during an initial investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, according to multiple media reports.

Comey had previously been indicted by the Trump administration on charges of lying to Congress, but the case was dismissed after a judge ruled that the prosecutor who prosecuted him was illegally appointed. The Department of Justice appealed this decision.

The development follows Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard’s assertion in a July 23 press conference that the Obama administration pushed a “contrived narrative” that Russia interfered in the 2016 election to support President Donald Trump. The same day, the Justice Department announced it was creating a “strike force” to evaluate the evidence and “explore potential next legal steps.”

Axios, citing unnamed sources, was the first of several media outlets to report on Comey’s subpoena. The investigation is reportedly being led by U.S. Attorney Jason A. Redding Quiñones, a Florida federal prosecutor appointed by President Trump.

The Justice Department has launched multiple prosecutions within the past year after President Trump publicly called for prosecutions of specific targets. This includes the so far unsuccessful prosecution of Comey, who was fired from the FBI by President Trump in 2017.

This includes a separate complaint against New York Attorney General Letitia James, who filed a civil suit against Trump in 2022. The case against her was dismissed in the same ruling that dismissed Mr. Comey’s case after a judge ruled that the prosecutor who secured the indictment was wrongfully imprisoned.

This story has been updated with additional information.

Is “The Bachelorette” canceled? Taylor Frankie Paul speaks

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ABC has canceled Taylor Frankie Paul’s upcoming season of The Bachelorette following backlash as the police investigation into the reality TV star and her ex-partner Dakota Mortensen continues.

“In light of the new video that was just released today, we have made the decision not to move forward with a new season of The Bachelorette at this time. We are focused on supporting our families,” a Disney Entertainment Television spokesperson told USA TODAY on Thursday, March 19.

The revocation comes after police in the northern Utah city of Draper disclosed an ongoing “domestic assault investigation” involving Paul and Mortensen, both of whom reportedly denied the allegations.

Authorities contacted both parties on February 24 and 25, a spokesperson told the outlet. The “Secrets of a Mormon Wife” star is set to star on season 22 of “The Bachelorette,” making her the first star to direct a season despite dating 22 men and not appearing on “The Bachelor.”

Paul recently told People in a statement on Tuesday, March 17, that it was “heartbreaking to see that, to go through that, especially during this time.”

“It’s just difficult timing and that’s a big problem,” Paul told the magazine. “I feel like all the premieres I’ve been to, I’ve never fully enjoyed them. So this is another premiere…It’s been really hard and it took everything to get here today.”

Paul is the unofficial star of “Secrets of Mormon Wives,” which has exploded in popularity since its premiere in 2024, following several women who have dubbed themselves “MomTok.” She drew a large audience on social media when she acknowledged that another couple in the LDS Church was “gently rocking.”

USA TODAY has reached out to a representative for Mormon Wives for comment.

‘Mormon Wives’ season 5 production paused over Taylor Frankie Paul’s domestic violence allegations

The investigation led to the suspension of production on Season 5 of The Mormons, Paul confirmed in an interview on Good Morning America on March 18th. Reality star Paul added that he doesn’t know how long the suspension will last.

“When your life is covered in these headlines, it feels like the end of the world. That’s how it feels. I’m not going to lie,” she said. “But I want to say, I’ve been here before, I’ve overcome it and shared my story… so I hope I can do it again.”

Co-star Mikayla Matthews addressed the pause in an Instagram Q&A on Thursday, March 19, saying, “This was a decision that all of us girls came up with and agreed upon,” adding, “We were nervous about filming everything that was going on.”

2023 video shows altercation allegedly involving Taylor Frankie Paul

TMZ leaked a 2023 video of an alleged argument between the former couple, which the outlet reported was being used as evidence in a domestic violence case. The video shows Paul screaming, punching and kicking Mortensen while he was recording, before pulling his hair and locking him in a headlock.

“Look, Taylor, this is all you have to do,” Mortensen says in the video. “This is no good.”

In the video, Paul can be heard throwing a metal bar stool at Mortensen, followed by the sound of a child, allegedly Paul’s daughter, crying. Then I heard Paul yell, “You did it!”

The rest of the video is hidden, but further movement and cries can be heard, including Paul’s daughter crying for her mother. At one point a doorbell is heard ringing, and then Mortensen speaks to someone who says, “What’s going on?” Paul replies, “Nothing,” but Mortensen says, “She’s been beaten.”

Contributed by: Taijuan Moorman, Edward Segarra, KiMi Robinson, USA TODAY

What Mayor Zoran Mamdani’s top 5 rappers say about mayoral politics

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Mamdani chose ultra-capitalist Biggie, Nas, and Jay-Z among his five favorite rappers. Pivot to center? Are Common and Lupe Fiasco a nod to his base?

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New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani may not agree with centrist Democrats on many things, but he has mainstream tastes in hip-hop. In what may be considered part of the former firebrand’s pivot to center, he recently selected five very widely admired rappers as his five favorites of all time.

Mamdani, 34, is famously passionate about hip-hop and has tried and failed to make it as a rapper himself, so it’s no wonder that writer Jose Vilson asked him in an interview to name his five favorite rappers of all time.

And the choice of the new mayor was equally unsurprising. Four widely respected legends who rose to fame in the 1990s: Nas, Common, Jay-Z, and the Notorious B.I.G., better known as Biggie, and an almost equally prominent figure from the 2000s: Lupe Fiasco.

For many hip-hop fans in their 30s, this would be an obvious choice. But for a self-proclaimed socialist beloved by hipsters for his unconventional policies, this is relatively prudent and apolitical, the equivalent of naming the Rolling Stones as your favorite rock band of all time or Seinfeld as your favorite sitcom.

For example, moderate House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries had the same three rappers in his top five when asked in 2020: Biggie, Jay-Z, and Nas.

But moderation is new to Mamdani. From abandoning past calls to defund the police and retaining his more conservative predecessor as police chief, to a friendship visit with President Donald Trump and a refusal to support a challenge to Jeffries, Mamdani has sought to allay establishment concerns.

some progressive political rappers

Common and Lupe Fiasco are both from Chicago and are among the most prominent rappers who are politically minded and considered progressive. Both are known as cheerful, cosmopolitan, and somewhat artistic personalities, befitting the Mamdani brand.

Despite Karl Rove’s hilariously inaccurate description of Common as a “thug” during a spoken word poetry reading at the White House during President Barack Obama’s administration, neither he nor Lupe ever rapped about being violent, carrying weapons, or belonging to a gang.

Common has frequently championed progressive causes such as civil rights, including his hit song “Glory” from the movie “Selma” and the song “Chapter 13 (Rich vs. Poor)” from his breakthrough 1994 album “Resurrection,” which illustrated the cost of racial wealth inequality.

Similarly, Lupe Fiasco raised awareness about everything from domestic violence to the legacy of imperialist exploitation of the Global South with her hit song “Around My Way (Freedom Ain’t Free).”

Three giants of New York hardcore hip-hop

It’s no coincidence that Mamdani and Jeffries chose Nas, Biggie and Jay-Z. The three are essentially the holy trinity of New York City rappers. (Biggie and Jay-Z are both from Brooklyn, and Nas is from Queens.)

They are also explicitly capitalist and materialistic in their lyrics, largely depicting a narrative of selling crack and distributing the proceeds among various investment portfolios. Jay-Z, in particular, brags about his wealth and the luxuries it affords, and it’s become part of his personality. (Example lyric: “I’m not a businessman, I’m a businessman.”)

Of course, you can’t become one of hip-hop’s most acclaimed lyricists without hitting other notes. Nas has addressed social issues such as racism in his later works, and many fans would argue that Biggie and Jay-Z raise awareness of the difficult conditions in urban areas and the hypocrisy of American capitalism, which praises liquor company CEOs and locks up drug dealers.

But if you parse his words carefully, you’ll notice that Mamdani calls Chicago progressives his personal favorites.

“When I was a kid, it was Lupe Fiasco for me,” Mamdani said. “I love Common too.”

On the other hand, his choice of New York City was cast as a matter of political necessity.

“We have to include Nath,” Mamdani began, noting that Queensbridge House, the project where Nath grew up, is in his own former state parliamentary district.

“We have to include Jay-Z,” he said. “And I think as a city of New York, we need to bring in Biggie.”

There are no real radicals

Sharper ideological choices might have been expected given Mamdani’s political and personal profile, including his years of advocacy for Palestinian rights, his upbringing by his anti-colonial academic father, and his sometimes harsh criticism of the police.

For example, Boots Riley in The Coup was a Marxist who wrote the screenplay for the anti-capitalist film Sorry, while Wise Intelligent, the black supremacist language in Poor Righteous Teachers, criticized America’s obsession with material things. And, of course, there are the godfathers of politically revolutionary hip-hop like Chuck D. Kennedy of KRS-One and Public Enemy.

Perhaps Mamdani wanted to avoid giving ammunition to his critics. He already had to deny that his call for President Trump to “turn up the volume” in his 2025 victory speech was a reference to KRS-One’s lyrics about the 2020 anti-police brutality protests.

But Chicago doesn’t have a monopoly on milder, more socially conscious alternative hip-hop. How about naming New York City rivals for Common, like A Tribe Called Quest’s Q-Tip and Phife Dawg, Gang Starr’s Gurus, or more underground, decidedly activist options like Talib Kweli and Mos Def (now known as Yassin Bey)?

Perhaps Mr. Mamdani is emulating President Obama’s effective appeal to political moderates. Admiring Common isn’t the only thing Mamdani has in common with the former president, who also famously loves listening to Jay-Z — or maybe he just wasn’t that edgy to begin with.

Police find body of missing Alabama student Jimmy Gracie

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Barcelona authorities say they have found the body of James “Jimmy” Gracie, a 20-year-old University of Alabama student who went missing after visiting a club with friends several days earlier.

Catalan police (Mossos d’Esquadra) confirmed in an email to USA TODAY on March 19 that they found his body in the water at Somorrostro Beach, just in front of the club where he was last seen, around 6pm local time. Spanish authorities identified the body as Gracie’s just before 8:45 p.m., police said.

In a previous statement, Gracie’s family called him a “kind, responsible, and dedicated son and brother,” and in a statement released after the body was identified, they thanked the public for “the kindness and consideration shown to our family.”

“We have decided to pause media interviews at this time in order to focus on being together and caring for each other,” their statement added. “Thank you for respecting our privacy and keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers. We will share updates when possible.”

In a statement to USA TODAY, the University of Alabama said it was “heartbroken” to learn of Gracie’s death and extends its “condolences to Gracie’s family.” The university added: “Jimmy’s loss is felt deeply across campus.”

What we know about Jimmy Gracie’s disappearance

On the night of March 16, Gracie went out to the Barcelona club Choco, his mother Therese Maren Gracie wrote in the public Facebook group Barcelona Expat Families. He was last seen alive in the early morning hours of March 17th.

His mother said he was visiting a friend who was studying abroad and was staying at an Airbnb near downtown Ronda de San Pere. The club he attended was about three miles southeast of where he was staying.

His mother said he was last seen around 3 a.m. by a friend who was with him at a nightclub. His friend eventually returned home, but Gracie decided to remain at the club, Barcelona newspaper El Periodico reported.

Investigators examined the nightclub’s security camera footage and found Gracie had left the club with someone, but it was unclear who that person was, the newspaper reported. Witnesses also told Catalan police that they saw Gracie walking towards the beach. Gracie never returned to the Airbnb, her mother said.

According to TV stations WBMA and El Periodico, authorities found Gracie’s wallet at sea. Catalan police did not confirm the report when contacted by USA TODAY.

Boston hotel restaurant closes after union election, cutting 56 jobs

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A Boston restaurant is set to close in the coming weeks after employees voted to unionize.

Seamark Seafood & Cocktails, which opened two years ago in the Encore Boston Harbor hotel lobby, will close at the end of March and lay off 56 employees, according to Unite Here Local 26.

The Pier to Plate restaurant offers seafood dishes such as tuna tartare, grilled swordfish, double clam chowder and local raw oysters, depending on the menu. Inside is a hidden secret bar called “Old Wives’ Tale.”

Carver Road Hospitality, which operates Seamark, did not respond to multiple requests for comment on Thursday, March 12. Encore directed inquiries to Carver Road, which issued a short statement citing financial issues as the reason for the closure.

Encore Boston Harbor said, “For any company to take care of its employees, revenues must exceed expenses. As a result, we respect Seamark’s right to make decisions that it believes are in the best interest of its business.”

In February, Seamark employees voted 38-7 to join Local 26, which represents about 14,000 service industry workers in the Boston area. According to union president Carlos Aramayo, they had not yet begun initial contract negotiations when they were notified of the closure.

Local 26 said in a press release that Seamark employees who voted to unionize wanted affordable health care and salaries comparable to what Encore’s unionized employees earn.

Aramayo said in a phone interview that Carver Road “was running a very aggressive anti-union campaign,” including a website called SeamarkElectionInfo.com. The website outlined the voting process and encouraged staff to “do your own research and ask tough questions on both sides.”

“Union organizers are allowed by law to make broad claims about what they can do on your behalf. do not have We are required to support these claims with evidence and facts,” the website states. Any We are committed to what we will or will not do if you vote yes or no to Unite Here. ”

“While we are limited in what we can say, we can guarantee that the transition from a non-union to a union environment will have a significant impact on any organization. This will be especially true for Seamark,” the website continued.

Employees ultimately voted in favor of a union, and the restaurant announced its closure 10 days after the vote was certified, according to Local 26.

Kim Vasquez, a server at Seamark, said she has “no idea” how she will continue to make money for herself and her family after the restaurant closes.

“Less than a month ago, I celebrated my vote for the union and listened to my colleagues sing ‘Happy Birthday’ with me. I saw a better future for my colleagues, my family, and my father, for whom I am the primary caregiver,” Vazquez said in a statement. “I can’t believe Carver Road and Seamark didn’t allow us to come to the table and partner to make this the best restaurant for all of us.”

Union wants Encore to ‘intervene’ to ‘protect basic labor standards’

Aramayo said the Sinatra restaurant that previously occupied the space is unionized and Encore has the ability to “step in” and take over Seamark’s operations.

“Encore Boston Harbor has an opportunity here to do the right thing,” Aramayo said in an interview. “This is a space that was previously operated, but it seems that it will be able to operate again starting tomorrow.”

Aramayo said in a statement that the union has confidence in the casino, which it hopes will bring thousands of jobs to the area. Now, he says, “I can’t help but notice that they’re not getting there. Even as workers unionize, jobs continue to be cut.”

“We believe that if Carver Road and its partners cannot or will not uphold basic labor standards for their tenants, they are failing in their responsibility to the community,” he continued.

The state Department of Labor and Workforce Development said it had not received any warning notices but that officials were in contact with the company to assist affected workers.

How much will it cost to replace your windows in 2026?

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Replacing windows isn’t cheap, and prices vary widely depending on factors such as design and frame material. You can pay as little as $300 for a single window to more than $5,000 per window for custom designs. It’s important to set a budget in advance, but you also need to know how much you’re willing to spend.

The USA TODAY team asked experts. Here’s a look at how much you can expect to pay for a project in 2026 and what will affect the final price.

What is the average cost for window replacement?

When you factor in installation costs, installing new windows can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. Having said that, Typically, the average cost for new windows is between $300 and $1,500.

Factors that affect the price of window replacement

Prices vary, so it’s important to understand what factors affect the price of window replacement.

Window design, size, frame material, glass type, and installation complexity all affect the final cost.

Window replacement cost by window type

Window replacement costs vary by type, with simple designs at the lower end and more complex styles costing significantly more.

“Single-hung and sliding windows are usually the most affordable option for window replacement because they allow for basic installation, have fewer moving parts, and are more readily available in standard sizes,” says Cliff Gielow, owner of Lemon Bay Glass & Mirrors in Florida. Bay and bow windows, on the other hand, tend to be the most expensive. “Installation requires significant labor and structural modifications such as frame adjustments and cuts at different angles,” Gierault says.

Let’s take a look at how replacement costs break down by window type, according to Gielow and other experts.

window type Price per window (installation included)
single hang $270–$700
double hung window $400 – $1,000
casement and awning windows $500 – $1,200
Picture windows and fixed windows $350–$1,200
double sliding window $300 – $900
bay window and bow window $1,500 – $1,800

Custom size or special window cost

Custom and specialty windows are made to order and may require complex installation, so they typically cost more than standard-sized windows.

expertise and Custom windows typically cost between $600 and $1,200 per window during installation. Larger or more complex configurations can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000 or more.

Window replacement cost by frame material

Frame material is also an important factor in pricing. Aluminum is usually the least expensive, but it doesn’t last as long as vinyl. Vinyl has a long lifespan and is also cost effective.

However, wood is also a traditional choice that can last for a long time (with proper maintenance). Although more expensive, composite and fiberglass frames are extremely durable, energy efficient, and require less maintenance than wood.

Compare window prices by frame material.

window frame material Price per window (installation included)
aluminum $300 – $800
vinyl $400 – $800
wood $600 – $2,000
fiberglass $600 – $1,500
composite $700 – $1,700

Labor and installation costs

Labor and installation costs make up a significant portion of the total cost of window replacement. “Homeowners should plan to spend 40 to 50 percent of the total price on labor, permits, and installation. This percentage can increase if one-time size or structural changes are involved,” Gierault says. In addition to resizing and structural repairs, consider the costs of removing and disposing of the original windows.

One way to reduce labor costs is to retrofit your windows rather than doing a full-frame installation. Renovation means installing new glass in an existing frame. This maintains the original appearance of your windows and increases energy efficiency. If your existing window frame is still in good condition, it may be a good choice.

energy efficient windows cost

Energy efficient windows tend to be more expensive than standard styles, but they can also help reduce your energy bills. Double glazed windows are a popular option and often cost between $600 and $1,000 each. Triple-glazed windows provide even better insulation and noise reduction, and cost between $900 and $1,500 each.

Low-E coatings that help windows reflect heat also improve energy efficiency. Look for ENERGY STAR® rated windows that meet specific efficiency standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Comparing the costs of window replacement and window repair

Window repairs typically cost between $200 and $700 per window. This is less than the cost of window replacement, which typically costs between $300 and $1,500.

Repairs can help resolve minor issues such as broken glass or sashes. If your windows are already old or have major problems such as water damage or rot, window replacement provides a long-term solution.

How to save money on window replacement costs

Replacing windows is expensive, but there are ways to reduce costs.

  • Currently applying Energy efficiency rebates and tax credits Local power companies and the federal government can subsidize installation.
  • collect multiple quotes Information from your contractor will help you determine market prices and negotiate lower rates.
  • Choose a long-lasting frame materialvinyl, etc., balance affordability and durability to maximize long-term value.
  • Schedule a fall or winter installation It helps lower labor prices during periods of low demand.
  • Adding windows to existing frames Improves energy efficiency and costs less than complete replacement.
  • Find bulk prices from wholesalers If you replace multiple windows at once, you can reduce the cost per window.

While there are many ways to save on window replacement costs, Leo Arabovitz, senior project manager at JMI Windows and Doors, emphasizes that you should always choose a licensed installer with the proper permits and insurance to complete the job safely. “Don’t save a dime. Don’t use a handyman. You trust your home and your family’s safety. This is not a place to cut corners,” he says.

FAQ

How much does it cost to replace 10 windows in my house?

For installation, replacing 10 windows in your home typically costs anywhere from $3,000 to more than $15,000. Prices vary depending on region, project complexity, and materials.

How much do you expect new windows to cost?

Typically, you can expect to pay between $300 and $1,500, including the cost of installing new windows. Typical energy-efficient double-glazed windows typically cost between $600 and $1,000 each.

When are windows cheapest?

You may be able to pay less for window installations during the fall and winter months, when there is less demand for home exterior upgrades.

How much does The Home Depot cost to replace windows?

Home Depot typically charges about $500 to $1,500 for standard vinyl or wood windows. However, large or custom windows can cost thousands of dollars each.

Is it cheaper to replace all windows at once?

Yes, it is usually cheaper to replace all your windows at once. Installers may offer discounts for large projects because high-volume replacements reduce labor costs per window.

President Trump plans to transfer student loan debt from Department of Education to Treasury Department

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Initially, the transition will only apply to about $180 billion in federal student loan defaults. But it could ultimately impact your FAFSA.

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WASHINGTON – In a move that could have major implications for millions of Americans who rely on financial aid to pay for school, the Trump administration is moving government oversight of federal student loan debt from the Education Department to the Treasury Department.

The two institutions signed a new agreement on March 19th. The deal marks the 10th deal between President Donald Trump and Education Secretary Linda McMahon as they seek to dismantle the department that provides support that students and schools across the country rely on.

The news quickly drew praise from conservatives and questions from advocates for student loan borrowers and college financial aid officers, some of whom were concerned about the short- and long-term implications of the dramatic changes in federal financial aid policy.

Initially, the transfer of “administrative responsibility” will only apply to the debt owed by the more than 9 million Americans who have defaulted on their student loans. But subsequent steps would include further increasing responsibility for managing the government’s roughly $2 trillion in federal student debt and transferring it to the Treasury Department. This includes at least some aspects of managing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, which millions of students use each year to attend college.

The Education Ministry did not provide a specific implementation schedule for the three-phase agreement, but said the first phase, which affects defaults, would begin immediately.

“With the federal student aid portfolio soaring to nearly $1.7 trillion and nearly a quarter of student loan borrowers in default, the American people know that the Department of Education is failing to effectively manage and deliver these critical programs,” McMahon said in a statement. “By leveraging the Treasury Department’s world-renowned expertise in monetary and economic policy, I am confident that after decades of mismanagement, America’s students, borrowers, and taxpayers will finally have a program that works.”

Lawmakers quickly divided on the announcement along party lines. Rep. Tim Walberg, the Republican chairman of the House Education Committee, called it a “sensible and pragmatic step.”

Zachary Schermele is a Congressional reporter for USA TODAY. You can email us at zschermele@usatoday.com. Follow him on X at @ZachSchermele and on Bluesky at @zachschermele.bsky.social..

Do you eat at Inn or DoorDash? More and more Americans are cooking. The reason is as follows

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As a busy single mother of an 11-year-old daughter, Ellen Hornberger loved the convenience of having restaurant meals delivered to her door, but she realized how much delivery cost.

After downloading a money management app last year, Hornberger took a deep look at her finances and discovered she was spending about three-quarters of her food budget ($942 a month) on takeout.

“Before, we only did simple things that were a little more expensive,” Hornberger said.

No more. She canceled DoorDash and started making dinner at home, saving hundreds of dollars each month. She said not only has she been cooking more, but her daughter has started cooking as well.

“I hated cooking. Now I wear an apron. Who am I?” said the 33-year-old sales program manager from New Jersey. “But you know the fact that I’m changing my habits means the economy is changing.”

As rising food prices force Americans to tighten their belts, eating in rather than eating out is becoming a more affordable and popular option.

Living in shelters during the pandemic has turned even novice cooks into expert home cooks, from chopping garlic to cracking eggs. But the moment the world opened up for business again, sourdough starters were once again thrown out of the fun of eating out.

Now, Americans are turning their attention back to food processors and salad spinners. According to a recent YouGov survey, three-quarters of Americans now cook at least several times a week. Only 2% of people never cook, and a further 10% cook less than once a month.

Research shows that the number one reason for this is to save money, and there’s never been a better time than now when high prices are straining household budgets.

Wages continue to grow at a faster pace than average prices, but the nation remains sour over the high cost of living, even as President Donald Trump touts a strong economy and package of policies ahead of November’s midterm elections.

Already, one in five shoppers rate their ability to afford daily living expenses as poor or poor, an increase of 8.5 percentage points over the past five years, according to market research firm Kantar.

More than half of Americans (53%) say they’ve eaten out less frequently in the past 12 months to save money on food, Kanter said.

Analysts now worry that food will become even more expensive as oil and gas prices soar due to the Iran war.

“When oil shocks occur, the effects tend to ripple through household finances quickly, increasing consumers’ focus on everyday costs and often creating trade-offs in spending on things like dining out, travel, entertainment, apparel and retail,” Dave Marcotte, senior vice president of strategic advisory at Kantar, told USA TODAY.

Even before this economic crisis, Americans were spending more time in the kitchen.

According to a 2025 National Institutes of Health analysis, more American adults are cooking today than they were 20 years ago. The analysis found that on average, the proportion of men who cook increased from 36% to 52%, and for women from 69% to 72%.

Annika Andring, 33, and her husband cook most of their meals at their Colorado home, from steak salads topped with arugula to “fancy” boxes of mac and cheese topped with savory meats and roasted vegetables.

“We’re not necessarily skimping on food,” says Andring, who works in human resources. “Eating at home is a lot cheaper than eating out. Even if it’s $10 per person, it’s still cheaper than eating out for more than $20 per person.”

According to Pew Research, eating home-cooked meals is much more common than ordering takeout, delivery, or eating at a restaurant. It found that nearly nine in 10 people eat home-cooked meals at least several times a week, compared to 17% who order takeout or delivery and 12% who frequently eat at restaurants.

This trend is fueled by soaring restaurant prices and delivery fees that are squeezing disposable income. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, on-the-go grocery prices rose 3.9% over the past 12 months, but grocery prices rose more modestly at 2.4%.

They told USA TODAY that weekly meal planning helps home cooks stay on budget, and choosing fresh ingredients helps them eat healthier.

Eating at home not only saves money, but also avoids hidden costs like tips, delivery fees, and service fees, which can add to your food bill with leftovers.

On a recent evening, Robert Belpasso, 31, was boiling homemade bone stock in his New York City apartment. On the menu was a $5 rotisserie chicken from Costco and a chicken vegetable soup made with fresh vegetables from Whole Foods.

This foodie mother trained him to be cost conscious and look for bargains without sacrificing taste or freshness. He can make a delicious meal at home for $10 to $20 and split it into four or five meals.

“I don’t budget too much or think too much about it,” said Belpasso, who works in the technology industry. “If I walk out of the supermarket and spend less than $100, I’m happy.”

Target boycott begins again

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good morning! I’m Daniel de Visé from Daily Money.

Earlier this month, an Atlanta pastor ended his long-standing boycott of Target, citing Target’s DEI policies, or lack thereof.

A backlash ensued, proving that perhaps the boycott was not worth canceling.

Tracking layoffs in American companies

Hundreds of thousands of American workers, including those at Amazon, Meta and Pinterest, could lose their jobs in the coming weeks.

How do we know? Read this story to find out.

Oh, Canada!

So here we go, fewer Canadians are visiting the United States. To remember why, read Nathan Diller’s report.

📰 Other stories you can’t miss 📰

Daniel de Visse covers personal finance for USA TODAY. Daily Money breaks down complex consumer and financial news. Subscribe here.

The world’s happiest countries have a few things in common

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You can’t buy happiness, but you can visit the happiest country in the world.

Each year, the World Happiness Report ranks countries based on the “life evaluations” of more than 100,000 global survey respondents. The report is a partnership between the Oxford University Center for Wellbeing Research, Gallup, the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network and independent editorial board members, according to the report’s website.

Respondents are asked to describe how they view themselves with respect to issues such as freedom, inequality, positive and negative emotions, and healthy life expectancy on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 representing the worst life for them and 10 representing the best life.

“Many people think of happiness as a positive emotional state that makes you smile, laugh, and feel good…but people also often use happiness to explain their evaluations and judgments,” the report’s website says, noting that the rankings take into account responses from the past three years. “We focus on both of these aspects.”

The findings, published on March 19, show that this year, all but one of the six happiest countries are in Northern Europe, and nearly all of the top 10 are in Europe.

What is the happiest country in the world?

Finland has been the happiest country in the world for the ninth year in a row.

Top 10 happiest countries

  1. Finland
  2. iceland
  3. Denmark
  4. Costa Rica
  5. Sweden
  6. Norway
  7. Netherlands
  8. Israel
  9. Luxembourg
  10. Switzerland

Do U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Finland?

According to the State Department, U.S. citizens do not need a tourist visa to visit Finland.

The same goes for other European countries in the top 10 for stays of less than 90 days, and Costa Rica for stays of less than 180 days.

Among the 10 happiest countries, only Israel requires a visa or electronic travel authorization (ETA-IL).

However, from the end of 2026, visa-free travel to 30 European countries, including Finland, will require approval from the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), although the exact start date has not been announced.

Where does America rank in terms of happiness?

The United States came in 23rd place.rd The report placed it two places higher than Canada.

Is Mexico happier than the United States?

According to the World Happiness Report, yes. Mexico ranks 12thth this year.

What is Schedule 1‑A? The new format behind the 2025 tax cuts

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Taxpayers must file Schedule 1‑A to claim new deductions for tips, overtime pay, auto loan interest, and senior citizens on their 2025 federal return.

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  • Whether you itemize deductions such as claiming mortgage interest or claim the standard deduction, four new tax deductions will be available to eligible taxpayers on their federal returns.
  • All four major tax credits created by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law by President Donald Trump on July 4, will be treated as so-called “submarginal deductions.”

So far this tax season, tens of millions of taxpayers have found themselves filing a brand new form, called Schedule 1-A, to claim a new and generous tax break on their 2025 federal income tax returns.

If you don’t file this form with your 2025 tax return, you won’t receive the much-talked-about One Big Beautiful Bill Act tax relief. Forget big vacations like car loans, seniors, tip income, and overtime. If you don’t submit the correct form, you won’t get anything.

What is Schedule 1‑A? Who needs to file it?

Schedule 1-A is a new two-page federal income tax form that must be accurately completed and filed on your 2025 federal income tax return claiming:

All four deductions are available to eligible taxpayers, whether they itemize deductions such as claiming mortgage interest or claim the standard deduction.

Since most taxpayers claim the standard deduction, it’s important to know that you can still use Schedule 1-A to get tax breaks on new car loans, overtime pay, tip income, and bonus deductions for adults 65 and older.

Tips and overtime deduction system

Tom Oseven, registered agent and director of tax content and government relations for the National Association of Tax Professionals, says that while the brand-new deduction “feels easy,” there’s more to filling out Schedule 1-A when claiming tax relief for tips and overtime than simply copying the numbers from your W-2.

Taxpayers should remember that the IRS specifically states, for example, that tax credits for overtime can only be claimed for the “half” portion of “time and a half” pay. And depending on where you work, that exact number may not be on your 2025 W-2.

If you’re not careful, Oceben says, if you claim the full amount of your OT’s wages, or the full amount of money you receive for working more than 40 hours a week, you run the risk of over-reporting the amount of overtime that’s eligible for deductions.

Tax credits generally apply only to overtime that meets the definition under the Fair Labor Standards Act. This means that any hours worked in excess of 40 hours in a workweek will be paid at 1.5 hours.

The annual overtime deduction limit is $12,500 for singles and $25,000 for married couples filing jointly. If a husband and wife file separate returns, they will not be able to claim overtime deductions.

Income limits, detailed rules, and other limitations apply to all four tax cuts and currently apply for tax years 2025, 2026, 2027, and 2028.

Rules for new car loan interest deduction

For example, to claim a new deduction for a new auto loan on your 2025 tax return, Schedule 1-A includes a spot where you need to list the vehicle identification number associated with the auto loan you’re applying for.

To purchase a new car that will be final assembled in the United States, you will need to take out a car loan in 2025. This tax break does not apply to auto loans taken out to purchase used cars or new cars or trucks with final assembly outside the United States.

How seniors 65 and older can apply for enhanced deductions.

Adults age 65 and older are looking at the “Enhanced Elderly Deduction” section called “Part V.” You don’t have to be collecting Social Security benefits to claim the tax break, but you must be born before January 2, 1961 to claim the new tax credit on your 2025 return.

If you fill out Schedule 1-A, people age 65 and older can claim an additional $6,000 deduction on their 2025 return. But the deduction will begin to phase out for seniors with modified adjusted gross incomes of $75,000 for single filers and $150,000 for joint filers, meaning higher-income seniors will receive smaller or no tax breaks.

When it comes to phasing out, Oseven pointed out, there is no need for simple calculations. You can lose your deduction much faster than you think.

The four special tax credits created by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act are treated as so-called “sub-maximum deductions.”

Meaning: You can reduce your taxable income. But claiming these special deductions won’t reduce your adjusted gross income, Oseven said.

After your adjusted gross income is determined, deductions for car loan interest, tips, overtime pay, and how extra breaks for seniors are treated are subtracted. It won’t lower your AGI and won’t help you take advantage of credits or other tax breaks.

Where can I find IRS instructions regarding Schedule 1‑A?

On March 2, the Internal Revenue Service posted a step-by-step summary of Schedule 1-A, noting that the related instructions are part of the overall Form 1040 instructions.

The U.S. Treasury Department showed that nearly 45% of the 63.5 million tax returns processed as of March 8 claimed at least one new major tax cut.

And the Treasury Department has some interesting insights into the number of returns that claimed key tax credits on the new Schedule 1-A when filing their 2025 tax returns through March 8 of this year.

  • According to the Treasury Department, there are more than 15.5 million tax returns claiming overtime pay tax deductions.
  • As of March 8, more than 9.2 million applications have been filed to expand the elderly deduction.
  • More than 3.5 million tax returns claim a tax credit for tips.
  • Additionally, there have been more than 690,000 tax returns requesting deductions for auto loan interest on new cars and trucks that are finally assembled in the United States.

Contact personal finance columnist Susan Tompol: stompor@freepress.com. follow himr X @tompor.

President Trump compares pre-emptive strike on Iran to Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor

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President Trump said he was unable to warn allies of the attack because the military may have lost the element of surprise that would have allowed it to defeat “much more” Iranian defenses than expected.

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WASHINGTON – Sitting next to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in the Oval Office, President Donald Trump likened the first attack on Iran to the U.S. naval attack on Japan’s Pearl Harbor that triggered America’s entry into World War II.

“I didn’t tell anyone about it because I wanted it to be a surprise. Who knows more about surprises than Japan?” Trump said, drawing laughter. “Why didn’t you tell me about Pearl Harbor?”

At the mention of Pearl Harbor, Takaichi’s eyes widened, his smile faded, and he leaned forward, pulling his hand closer to his.

President Franklin Roosevelt called the December 7, 1941 surprise attack “a day that will live in infamy” while urging Congress to declare war.

During a Q&A session with reporters, President Trump was asked why he did not notify allies in Asia and Europe of the war before it began on February 28th.

President Trump said, “Sometimes I don’t want to signal too much when I enter.” “We worked very hard.”

Due to the surprise, President Trump said the military had knocked out “far more” than expected in the first two days of the attack. Pentagon leaders said the US had struck 7,000 targets inside Iran and sank or damaged 120 Tehran naval ships.

“If I go and tell everyone about this, they won’t be surprised anymore,” Trump said.

Proliferation of iPhone spyware raises global security concerns

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Researchers said Wednesday that a powerful software exploit capable of infiltrating and stealing information on potentially hundreds of millions of Apple AAPL.O iPhones has been planted on dozens of websites in Ukraine in recent weeks.

The discovery is the second time this month that researchers have discovered spyware targeting iPhones and other Apple devices. Taken together, the two hacking tools indicate a thriving market for advanced malware that can steal data and information from cryptocurrency wallets, the researchers said.

Researchers from cyber company Lookout, mobile security company iVerify, and Alphabet Inc.’s Google have published a joint analysis of a piece of malware they dubbed “Dark Sword.” On March 3, Google and iVerify revealed another powerful iPhone spyware called “Coruna.” Researchers discovered that Darksword was hosted on the same server.

“A validated pipeline of recent exploits exists that ended up in the hands of potential criminal organizations for financial gain,” said Lookout Principal Researcher Justin Albrecht.

According to iVerify and Lookout, researchers found malware being distributed to iPhone users running iOS versions 18.4 to 18.6.2 who visited one of dozens of websites in Ukraine. Apple released these versions between March and August 2025.

Researchers say it’s unclear how many iPhones are vulnerable to Darksword attacks. Apple has released multiple fixes for the underlying bug that attackers used to create Darksword. Despite this, many people do not install updates for their iPhones, and according to iVerify and Lookout, this number is based on public estimates, with an estimated 220 million to 270 million iPhones still running the released iOS version. Google did not release its findings ahead of Wednesday’s report.

Apple did not respond to a request for comment.

Rocky Cole, co-founder and chief operating officer of iVerify, said the two different and powerful iOS exploits discovered this month suggest a robust ecosystem of tools that have previously been largely limited to nation-state intelligence operations.

Researchers said they discovered the vulnerability because of a sloppy security mistake not often seen in nation-state iPhone hacks.

“The fact that they don’t care about the flames and are using them in large-scale attacks with poor[operational security]speaks to how much they value these tools,” Cole said. “They don’t really care that they get exposed.”

Researchers from iVerify and Lookout said in findings and interviews ahead of Wednesday’s release that they discovered Darksword on an internet server suspected of being used by Russian operators of Coruna.

Reporting by AJ Vicens in Detroit. Editing: Lisa Shoemaker

How to choose the right flooring material for each room

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When choosing the best flooring for your home, there’s more to consider than just aesthetics.

The right flooring not only complements your style, but also withstands daily wear and tear, resists moisture, and brings your space together.

We’ve broken down the main factors to consider so you can choose the flooring that suits both your home and your lifestyle.

Why is it important to choose the right type of flooring?

The price, durability, appearance, and maintenance of your flooring all impact your daily life in your home. That’s why it’s important to choose a flooring type that suits the look, feel, and function of your space.

6 things to consider when choosing new flooring

There are several practical and design factors to consider when choosing new flooring. The right choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and long-term needs.

Lifestyle and how to use space

One of the most important things to consider when choosing flooring is how the space will be used.

For example, if you have children or pets, durable, scratch-resistant materials can help keep your floors looking great longer. On the other hand, in low-traffic areas such as bedrooms, softer materials such as plush carpets can be used.

moisture and humidity

You should also consider the humidity level in the room. There are spaces in your home that are naturally damp, such as bathrooms and basements. These rooms require moisture-resistant materials such as tile or luxury vinyl plank (LVP).

Moisture resistance is also important if you live in a humid climate. Frequent changes in humidity can cause hardwood floors to buckle or warp. Moisture can also cause mold and odor to develop in your carpet.

Maintenance and cleaning requirements

Some floor types require more maintenance than others. For example, LVP and tile are easy to clean, while hardwood and natural stone require specialized cleaners and occasional refinishing.

Your best option will depend on how much upkeep you are willing to pay. “Be honest about maintenance. Some people say you can’t use wood in your kitchen, but if you like the look and are willing to maintain it (and accept some patina), it could be the right choice,” says Theo Jones, director of London-based home architecture and interior design firm Finn Architects.

Budget and long-term value

Balance upfront cost with long-term durability and value. Some more expensive flooring options, such as hardwood and natural stone, can last a lifetime.

Laminate and vinyl are budget-friendly options, but they only last 15 to 25 years if properly cared for.

Subfloor material and condition

Before installing new flooring, check the material and condition of the subfloor beneath it. The surface must be flat and stable so that the flooring can be installed correctly.

Moisture is also an important factor. Concrete slabs retain moisture from the ground, which can cause hardwood and other materials to warp or buckle. Homes with wood subfloors also require proper ventilation to control humidity and prevent moisture damage.

style and aesthetics

Style and aesthetics are top priorities for many homeowners when choosing flooring. But what looks great in the showroom can look out of place at home.

Take samples home to see how your floors will look with lighting and existing finishes before deciding on your final design.

Main types of flooring materials

There are many different types of flooring, each with a different look, feel, and price. They include:

  • carpet: Because carpet is made of cloth fibers, it’s a comfortable option that keeps your floors warmer than other types of flooring.
  • Hardwood: Hardwood, made from materials such as oak and maple, is a traditional choice that can last over 100 years. There is also treated wood. They are cheaper than solid wood boards because they only have a top layer of hardwood.
  • tile: Tiles are made from natural materials such as clay or sand and are covered with a protective glaze. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are waterproof and durable.
  • vinyl: Vinyl is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and is often manufactured to look like wood or tile. It is durable, low maintenance, and costs less than hardwood.
  • laminate: Laminate, like vinyl, is a manufactured flooring material. Although it is one of the most affordable flooring types, it is not as water-resistant or durable as vinyl.

The best type of flooring material for each room

Just as each room in your home serves a different purpose, some types of flooring are better suited to specific spaces. “Ultimately, you need to choose the best flooring that balances durability, comfort, and style while matching how each space will be used,” says Tim Oswald, president of Coastal Coverings International in Rhode Island.

Here are the flooring he recommends for each room:

  • bedroom: Carpets provide warmth and comfort. Hardwood and LVP are also popular options.
  • living room: Hardwood and LVP are durable and offer a natural look.
  • Bathroom: Porcelain and ceramic tiles are highly water resistant.
  • kitchen: Tiles and LVP are resilient and easy to clean.
  • Basement: Tile and LVP perform well in humid environments.

FAQ

What is the 60/30/10 rule for flooring?

The 60/30/10 rule is a design guideline for creating a balanced color palette in a room. It states that approximately 60% of the space should be primary colors. This usually includes floors and walls. The next 30% consists of the second color. It complements the main color and can appear on some furniture and decorations. The accent color represents the last 10%.

What is the most preferred flooring material?

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is a very popular flooring choice because it offers durability and affordability while giving the look of wood. Natural hardwood flooring is a timeless flooring choice. The initial cost is high, but the durability is very high.

Should the floor be lighter or darker than the walls?

In residential buildings, floors are generally darker than the walls. This will make the room larger and make it feel larger. However, a combination of light floors and dark walls will give you a cozy look. So it really depends on what kind of aesthetic you are going for.

How many types of flooring do you need in your home?

Greg Cantor, president of Murray Lampert Design Build Remodeling, recommends using no more than two types of flooring throughout your home. “This allows us to maintain cohesion and consistency while minimizing differences in finished floor height that would require transitions,” he says.

Joseph Duggar’s arrest is the latest family scandal. See past controversies

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Joseph Duggar’s arrest is the latest downfall for the once picture-perfect Duggar family.

A 31-year-old man was arrested and charged with lewd conduct. He is accused of sexually abusing a 9-year-old girl in Panama City Beach, Florida in 2020, the Bay County Sheriff’s Office announced on March 18.

Joseph Duggar, the Duggar’s seventh eldest son, appeared on TLC’s “19 Kids and Counting” with his family for seven years.

The hit series follows a family led by parents Jim Bob and Michelle and their ultra-conservative Christian lifestyle in rural Arkansas.

The show was canceled in 2015 after news broke that the eldest brother, Josh Duggar, sexually abused his four sisters and their babysitter when they were teenagers. Josh Duggar is currently serving a 12-year prison sentence for downloading and possessing child pornography in an unrelated case.

USA TODAY reached out to the Duggar family about Joseph Duggar’s arrest.

Here’s what you need to know about the Duggar family and the morass of scandal that followed their rise to TV fame.

What we know about Joseph Duggar’s arrest

The Bay County, Florida, Sheriff’s Office announced that Joseph Duggar, 31, was charged with lewd acts involving sexual intercourse with a 14-year-old girl.

The victim, who was 9 years old at the time of the incident, told police in a forensic interview that she allegedly had several encounters with Joseph Duggar during a family vacation in 2020.

In one instance, a victim claimed Duggar manipulated her underwear and sexually abused her under a blanket. He also allegedly repeatedly asked her to sit on his lap on other occasions.

According to the sheriff’s office, the victim said Duggar later apologized to the victim for his actions and that no other incidents occurred.

On March 17, the victim’s father confronted Duggar about the incident, and the reality TV star admitted his actions to police in Tontitown, Arkansas. Authorities arrested Dugger and he will be extradited to Bay County, where he will face charges.

Joseph Duggar married Kendra Caldwell Duggar in 2017 and they have three children.

The Duggar family’s troubles began with Josh Duggar’s sexual abuse scandal

The Duggar family was first exposed to scandal in May 2015, when news broke that Josh Duggar, the eldest son of the family, sexually abused his four sisters and a babysitter when they were teenagers.

In Touch published a 2006 police report detailing alleged incidents dating back to 2002 and 2003. According to a police report, Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar learned of the incident after it happened, but did not initially call police.

After the second incident in 2003, Jim Bob Duggar and the elders of his church decided to enroll Josh in a four-month Christian counseling program, according to a 2006 police report.

When Josh returned home from the program, he and his father told Joseph Hutchens, then a trooper with the Arkansas State Police, about the abuse. According to the report, Hutchens spoke with Josh Duggar but took no further action. Hutchens, who is currently serving a 56-year sentence for child pornography, later claimed that her family had concealed the extent of the abuse.

Police later questioned the Duggars about the 2006 incident after receiving an anonymous tip about abuse at their home. They did not press charges because the statute of limitations had passed.

After InTouch released its 2006 report in 2015, the Duggar family, including Jim Bob, Michelle and Josh, issued a statement calling the incident a “very, very bad mistake.”

Josh Duggar said, “When I was a teenager, I committed an unforgivable act. I am very sorry and deeply regret it.”

“We pray that people look at our lives and understand that we are not a perfect family. We have challenges and struggles every day,” Jim Bob and Michelle said.

Josh Duggar admits to being ‘unfaithful’ to his wife

In August 2015, three months after his sexual abuse scandal broke, Josh Duggar found himself embroiled in new controversy after admitting that he had been “unfaithful” to his wife, Anna.

Josh Duggar had an Ashley Madison account after hackers released user data from the relationship website Ashley Madison, Gawker reported.

Josh has since released a statement admitting that he has an account on the website.

“I was the biggest hypocrite ever. While I believed in my faith and family values, for the past few years I had been secretly viewing pornography on the Internet. This secretly developed into an addiction and led me to be unfaithful to my wife,” the statement said at the time.

He continued: “In recent years, I have been hiding my own personal shortcomings while professing to be fighting immorality in our country.”

That same month, the Duggar family announced that Josh had entered rehab, but did not reveal the nature of his treatment. He left the rehabilitation facility in March 2016.

Josh and Anna were married in 2008 and have seven children.

Josh Duggar serving prison sentence for child pornography charges

In 2021, Josh Duggar was arrested and charged with possessing child pornography after images were found on his work computer.

That same year, an Arkansas jury found him guilty of one count each of receiving and possessing child pornography. U.S. District Judge Timothy L. Brooks ruled to dismiss the possession charges.

In 2022, Duggar was sentenced to 151 months in prison and a $10,000 fine. He faced up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each count.

Prosecutors argued in pre-sentence court filings that Duggar has a “persistent, pervasive and violent sexual interest in children.” His defense attorney maintained his innocence.

After Josh’s arrest in 2021, TLC canceled the Duggar family spinoff series Counting On.

Jana Duggar was charged with child endangerment

The family’s eldest daughter, Jana Duggar, was charged in September 2021 with a misdemeanor charge of endangering the welfare of a child.

After the news broke in December of that year, the day after her brother Josh was convicted in a child pornography case, Jana Duggar shared the “raw facts” of the incident on Instagram.

“A few months ago, while I was babysitting, one of the children was wandering outside alone. A passerby who saw the child called the police,” she wrote on her Instagram Story at the time. “This resulted in a written citation and a follow-up investigation by the Department of Children’s Services, who concluded that this was an accident and the child was not injured.”

She said authorities recognized the incident as “an incident in which a child slipped out of the house when the child’s back was slightly turned.”

“It all happened so fast and it was scary. I am grateful to law enforcement and those who protect and serve our community,” she wrote. “I certainly wasn’t arrested, as some people might have implied. In the end, I was just mad at myself for the incident to have happened, but I’m very grateful that everything ended well. That was really the most important thing to me.”

Jana Duggar pleaded guilty. According to People magazine, she reached an out-of-court settlement in January 2022.

‘Shiny Happy People’ Doctor claims Duggar is part of a cult

In 2023, a limited four-part documentary about the Duggar family, Shiny Happy People: Secrets of the Duggar Family, was released on Amazon Prime.

The series revealed that Jim Bob and Michelle joined the Institute for Basic Life Principles (IBLP), an ultra-conservative religious organization, as a young couple. The organization advertises itself as a resource for missionary seminars and other religious support, but has been criticized by some former members as a cult.

“Shiny Happy People” featured interviews with members of the Duggar family and former members of IBLP. They claimed that the Duggars utilized forms of child abuse promoted by IBLP teachings.

Jill Duggar Dillard, one of the Duggar children featured in the docuseries, said she felt obligated to protect her brother Josh from sexual abuse allegations, even though he was one of the victims.

“I didn’t want to say it, but at the same time I’ve never said no to my family before,” Duggar Dillard said.

Duggar Dillard also claimed that she was never paid for her role on “19 Kids and Counting” or the spin-off series in which she starred. As a result, he said, he didn’t have money to cover his medical expenses and sometimes relied on food stamps.

Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar spoke out against the documentary in a statement at the time.

“The recent ‘documentary’ about our family is sad because in it we see the media and malicious people hurting our loved ones,” they wrote. “Like any family, our family has experienced life’s joys and heartbreaks in a very public format. This ‘documentary’ portrays so many people in a derogatory and sensationalist way, because sadly that’s the direction entertainment is heading these days.”

Contributions: Anthony Robredo, Joy Ashford, Barbara Vandenberg, Amy Heinlein, Mary Bowerman

Melina Khan is USA TODAY’s national trends reporter. Contact her at melina.khan@usatoday.com.

Are you ready to invest in gold? Compare Goldco and Augusta Precious Metals

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Goldco and Augusta Precious Metals are well-known gold IRA companies, but they take different approaches to pricing, education, and customer experience.

Both companies help investors buy physical gold and silver and set up self-directed IRAs, but differences in fee transparency, onboarding styles, and minimum investment requirements will determine which one is better suited for you depending on your goals.

Comparing Goldco and Augusta Precious Metals will help you choose the provider that best fits your investment priorities.

Goldco vs. Augusta Precious Metals Overview

Goldco and Augusta Precious Metals are both high-touch, concierge-style gold IRA companies that guide investors through purchasing physical metals and setting up self-directed retirement accounts. Each offers practical support, educational resources, and assistance with IRA or 401(k) rollovers.

Both companies support direct purchases of gold and silver for home delivery or third-party storage, and coordinate with custodians to handle account setup and compliance requirements.

The difference between the two lies in their product range and overall positioning. Goldco offers a broader selection of metals, while Augusta Precious Metals focuses on education and a streamlined guided onboarding experience.

Overview of Goldco

Goldco was founded in 2006 and is based in Calabasas, California. The company specializes in precious metals IRAs and direct sales of gold and silver, and may also have platinum and palladium available.

Goldco positions itself as a full-service provider, offering hands-on support throughout the IRA setup process and direct purchases. Its services include arranging rollovers from existing retirement accounts, working with custodians, and providing educational materials for investors.

The company has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). This may be attractive to investors who need guided support when purchasing physical metals or setting up a self-directed IRA, especially those new to precious metals investing or those with medium-sized portfolios.

Compared to Augusta Precious Metals, Goldco typically offers a wider range of metals, but a less structured, education-first onboarding experience. ”

Overview of Augusta Precious Metals

Augusta Precious Metals was founded in 2012 and is headquartered in Beverly Hills, California, with additional operations in Casper, Wyoming. The company focuses on gold and silver products, with an emphasis on precious metals IRAs, but also supports direct purchases of bullion.

Augusta positions itself as an education-focused provider, offering guided support throughout the IRA setup process, along with resources designed to help investors understand the market. Its services include coordinating rollovers, working with custodians, and providing ongoing customer support.

The company has an A+ rating from the BBB. It may appeal to investors who prioritize education and a structured onboarding experience, especially high-net-worth individuals looking to make larger or longer-term investments in precious metals.

One feature Augusta is highlighting is one-on-one web conferences, led by Director of Education Devlin Steele, available to prospective clients.

Goldco vs. Augusta Precious Metals: Fees and Price Transparency

Transparent pricing is relatively rare in the precious metals industry. Neither Goldco nor Augusta Precious Metals publishes complete fee schedules online, and fees may vary depending on trade size, account type, and storage preferences. In most cases, investors will need to request a quote directly.

Beyond the spot price of gold or silver, the total cost may include dealer markups, account setup fees, annual maintenance fees, and storage costs through third-party vaults.

Based on publicly available information and company disclosures, typical fees include:

Goldco vs. Augusta Precious Metals: Reputation and Customer Reviews

Overall, both companies have good ratings, but Augusta Precious Metals tends to have higher customer satisfaction ratings, while Goldco has a longer operating history. Each has an A+ rating from the BBB.

Both companies are rated highly by customers on Trustpilot. Goldco currently has a rating of about 4.4 out of 5, while Augusta Precious Metals is rated higher, at about 4.8 out of 5.

While Goldco’s tenure may stand out to investors who prioritize long-term performance, Augusta’s higher customer ratings may be attractive to investors who value customer experience.

Goldco vs. Augusta Precious Metals: Which is Right for You?

Both Goldco and Augusta Precious Metals offer full-service support for purchasing physical metals and setting up a gold IRA. Which is more appropriate depends on your investment size, product preferences, and how much guidance you need during the process.

  • Goldco may be a better choice for investors looking for flexibility. We offer a wider range of metals, including occasional access to platinum and palladium, as well as lower minimum investment amounts for gold IRAs. This may be attractive to those starting with a small allocation or looking to diversify beyond gold and silver.
  • Augusta Precious Metals may appeal to investors who prioritize education and a structured onboarding experience. Due to its high minimum investment amount, it may be suitable if you are planning a larger allocation or want more guidance before making a decision.

Points to note when choosing a precious metals purchasing company

Choosing a precious metals purchasing company is an important decision. These investments often involve significant upfront costs and physical assets, which can make switching providers more complex. When comparing options, keep the following factors in mind:

  • Price transparency: Full pricing details are rarely published online, but reputable dealers should clearly explain fees, markups, and total costs when requesting a quote. Ask specifically about the bid-ask spread, which reflects the dealer’s markup.
  • Storage method: Most dealers partner with third-party storage facilities rather than storing metals themselves. Established facilities such as Brink’s and Delaware Depository typically offer higher levels of security, insurance, and regulatory oversight.
  • Customer support: Review sites like Trustpilot and BBB provide insight into the customer experience. We also recommend considering feedback from friends and colleagues who have worked with the dealership.
  • Minimum investment threshold: It is possible to invest in gold with a smaller budget. Minimum amounts vary by company and account type. Some dealers have lower standards for direct purchases, while others focus on large IRA accounts.
  • Buyback policy: A clearly written buyback program makes it easier to liquidate metals if your investment strategy changes.

conclusion

Goldco and Augusta Precious Metals are both established providers in the precious metals industry, offering direct purchasing and gold IRA support. Each takes a high-touch approach, providing guided support throughout the purchase and account setup process.

Goldco may be suitable for investors with a smaller budget who are looking for more metal varieties. Augusta Precious Metals may appeal to high-net-worth investors who value highly educational, low-pressure consulting.

As with any financial decision, it’s important to compare multiple providers. Requesting quotes from both companies will give you the clearest picture of your total cost, allowing you to make a more informed decision. Or use the map below to find a precious metal retailer near you.

FAQ: Goldco vs. Augusta Precious Metals

Is Goldco better than Augusta Precious Metals?

Neither is inherently better than the other. Goldco may be appealing to investors with a smaller budget due to its lower minimum investment amount, while Augusta Precious Metals may be better suited to high-net-worth investors who prioritize education and a more structured onboarding experience.

Which company has lower fees: Goldco or Augusta Precious Metals?

Fees for both companies are typically similar, but total costs may vary depending on account size, storage options, and specific metals purchased. Requesting quotes from each provider is the best way to compare prices.

Do Goldco and Augusta Precious Metals offer gold IRAs?

Yes, both companies specialize in helping investors set up self-directed IRAs that include physical gold and other precious metals.

Can I purchase physical gold from Goldco or Augusta Precious Metals?

Yes, both companies offer direct purchases of physical gold and silver for home delivery or third-party storage. Augusta Precious Metals typically requires a higher minimum investment ($50,000) for both IRA accounts and direct purchases.