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Who is releasing Epstein’s photos? Democrats release 19 new images.

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Who is releasing Epstein’s photos? Democrats release 19 new images.

House Democrats have released 19 new images from Jeffrey Epstein’s estate depicting the alleged sex trafficker and several powerful figures, including President Donald Trump and former President Bill Clinton.

The photos were part of a cache of more than 95,000 photos received by the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, according to a Friday statement from the committee’s ranking member, Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.).

Congress has set a December 19 deadline for publication under the Epstein File Transparency Act. The bill was initially opposed but later signed by President Trump. Democrats are increasingly calling for the Justice Department to release all files related to Epstein’s criminal investigation.

“All we want is complete transparency,” said House Majority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.). “That’s what Epstein survivors deserve and demand.”

“Once again, House Democrats are selectively releasing hand-picked, randomly edited photos to create a false narrative,” White House Press Secretary Abigail Jackson said in a statement. “Democratic lies against President Trump have been debunked time and time again, and the Trump administration has done more for Epstein’s victims than Democrats ever have.”

See photo: New Epstein photo shows Trump, Clinton and other VIPs from recent Democratic losses

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New photo shows Epstein with Trump, Bannon and other celebrities

A new photo released by the Democratic House Oversight Committee shows Jeffrey Epstein with a prominent figure.

Who is releasing the Epstein files?

  • Congressman Robert Garcia The House Oversight Committee’s top Democrat, D-Calif., spearheaded the disclosure, saying in a Dec. 12 press statement that “it’s time to end this cover-up by the White House and bring justice to the survivors of Jeffrey Epstein and his powerful friends.”
  • House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) publicly supported the push for transparency. At a news conference on December 12, he told reporters that House Democrats, led by Garcia, “will continue to make sure that we hold the administration accountable.”

Democrats on the House Oversight Committee issued a joint statement on X (formerly Twitter) on December 12th, which read in part: “These disturbing images raise even more questions about Epstein’s relationships with some of the most powerful people in the world. It’s time to end the White House cover-up. Release the files!”

Democratic members of the Oversight Committee include:

  • Eleanor Holmes Norton, Democrat, District of Columbia
  • Stephen F. Lynch, Democrat – Massachusetts
  • Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Illinois
  • Ro Khanna, D-California
  • Kweisi Mfume, Democrat – Maryland
  • Shontel M. Brown, Democrat, Ohio
  • Melanie A. Stansberry, Democrat – New Mexico
  • Maxwell Frost, D-Florida State
  • Summer L. Lee, Democrat – Pennsylvania
  • Greg Casar, Democrat – Texas
  • Jasmine Crockett, Democrat – Texas
  • Emily Randall, Washington Democrat
  • Suhas Subramanyam, Virginia
  • Yasmin Ansari, Democrat, Arizona
  • Missouri Democratic Party Wesley Bell
  • Latifa Simon, California
  • Dave Ming, Democrat, California
  • Ayanna Pressley, Democrat, Massachusetts
  • Rashida Tlaib, Michigan
  • James Walkinshaw, Democrat – Virginia

Will more photos of Epstein be released?

Garcia told reporters on Dec. 12 that he expected the commission to release more photos in the coming days, ahead of a Dec. 19 deadline set by Congress.

“We’ve probably gone through about 25,000 of them so far,” he said. “We will continue to publish more photos in the coming days and weeks,” he said.

Who is Park Se Joon? Exiled U.S. military veterans speak out

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Who is Park Se Joon? Exiled U.S. military veterans speak out

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Park Se-joon is once again attracting global attention.

Park, a U.S. military veteran who had lived in the United States for nearly 50 years, was voluntarily deported to South Korea after immigration officials said he would be deported this summer if he did not do so.

“I feel it’s unfair that people who fought for our country are treated like this,” President Park said in an exclusive interview with USA TODAY on Friday, Dec. 12.

Less than 24 hours later, at a hearing at the Capitol in Washington, D.C., Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem faced a barrage of questions related to the department’s immigration efforts, including whether U.S. military veterans were deported in the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.

Park joined the hearing at the invitation of Democratic Rep. Seth Magaziner of Rhode Island after Noem asked Noem how many U.S. military veterans had been deported.

“We are not expelling American citizens or veterans,” Noem responded.

Magazine Jar profiled Mr. Park, a U.S. Army veteran and Purple Heart recipient who was shot twice while serving in Panama in the late 1980s, and when Nom asked if he would consider Mr. Park’s case, the secretary said he would.

On Friday, almost half way around the world, Park told USA TODAY that her status had not changed and that she would like to return to the United States, but is unsure if that will happen.

“No one contacted me,” Park said.

Who is Park Se Joon? Here’s what you need to know about this veteran and his desire to return to American soil.

Who is Park Se Joon?

Park, who will turn 56 this year, told USA TODAY that he was a private in the Army and graduated from basic training at Fort Benning, Georgia, in September 1989.

That same year, he was shot twice while serving in the U.S. military in Panama.

Kristi Noem was outraged to hear: Asked for explanation regarding deportation of veterans

When did Park Se Joon come to America?

Park came to the United States on a green card from South Korea when he was 7 years old, his attorney Danicole Ramos previously told USA TODAY.

After graduating from high school, he joined the military and was sent to Panama, where he took part in the 1989 operation to overthrow the country’s de facto leader.

He was shot twice during that conflict, was honorably discharged, and received the Purple Heart for bravery.

He previously lived in the Van Nuys neighborhood in the central San Fernando Valley area of ​​Los Angeles, but before his voluntary repatriation to Asia, he lived in Honolulu with his ex-wife and their two adult children, a daughter and a son.

When did Park Se-joon voluntarily leave to Korea?

Park voluntarily deported to South Korea on June 23, 2025.

Park told USA TODAY that he currently lives in Seoul but may soon move to Busan, South Korea’s large port city.

Why did Park Se Joon voluntarily leave?

Magaziner said Park’s removal order stemmed from his addiction, which stemmed from an arrest for a minor drug offense in the 1990s.

Previously, USA TODAY reported that Park, who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, turned to drugs to relieve her nightmares and was arrested one night after allegedly purchasing crack cocaine. He then failed a court-ordered drug test and served more than two years in prison, his lawyer said.

Park said she would like to return to the United States someday.

contribution:

Natalie Neisa Alland is a senior reporter at USA TODAY. Contact her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her at X @nataliealund

Nissan aims to launch hybrid in 2026 US production plan

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Nissan aims to launch hybrid in 2026 US production plan

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  • Nissan America is positioning its Tennessee operations to lead the recovery after suffering significant financial losses last fiscal year.
  • The automaker’s U.S. market share increased slightly by tailoring production to specific dealer orders rather than mass production.
  • Nissan plans to introduce e-Power hybrid technology to the U.S. market starting with imported Rogue models in 2026.
  • The company aims to produce next-generation e-Power vehicles and components at its Tennessee plant starting in 2027.

After a difficult year, Nissan America is counting on Tennessee for its recovery in 2026, Chairman Christian Meunier said, adding that Tennessee is critical as the automaker seeks to regain market share.

The company’s goal is “to make Tennessee proud of us,” Meunier told The Tennessean, a member of the USA TODAY Network.

When Meunier took over as chairman in January, the company was in the midst of a dismal operating loss of 215.9 billion yen ($1.39 billion) for the 2024-25 fiscal year.

Currently, he focuses on business fundamentals.

“We have to start selling cars, make money, take care of customers and forget about the rest,” Meunier said. “The rest doesn’t matter. Cut the bureaucracy, cut the things that don’t add value.”

this year, Nissan’s U.S. market share has edged up from 4% to 5%, which Meunier attributes to a focus on adjusting production to dealer demand rather than relying on mass production.

“We achieved this by aligning our goals with our dealers, simplifying investments where we make an impact, and building the right car, in the right place, at the right time,” Meunier said. “Instead of us building all the cars and shipping them to dealers, we work with dealers to figure out what cars they need.”

Meunier said dealers are currently “pre-claiming” vehicles from Nissan. This means placing an order in advance, specifying the exact model, color and trim you plan to sell. Six to eight months ago, only about 30% of Nissan’s production was pre-billed through dealers. Now, that number has doubled to 60%, allowing the company to better understand demand before cars reach the lot.

“Obviously, this is a big country between New York, Los Angeles and Dallas,” Meunier said. “These are not exactly the same markets.”

These markets favor leasing, buying and hybrid respectively, he said. “We need to respond to the needs of different markets, so I think partnering with dealers makes a lot of sense.”

With tariffs hampering overseas exports, the company turned to factories in Tennessee and Mississippi that produce the Rogue, Pathfinder, and Frontier.

“So one of the first things we decided to do when the tariffs went into effect was to focus on products that could be made in the United States,” Meunier said.

From there, the company maximized production of those vehicles.

“It’s working well and we’re putting more effort into these cars in terms of advertising and supporting incentives and offers in the market. It’s growing and the profits are good,” Meunier said.

According to Nissan, from July to September, sales of the Rogue, Pathfinder and Frontier increased by 8.9%, 33.2% and 19.2%, respectively, compared to the same period last year.

When will Nissan bring hybrid cars to the US?

Meunier also said that after recent gains in locally produced cars, the company is taking steps to bring hybrid vehicles to market next year. Until now, Nissan has lagged behind in domestic sales.

“It’s okay to be late as long as you bring something great,” Meunier said.

The company plans to bring hybrid technology to the U.S. with the e-Power Rogue in 2026. The hybrid system was first introduced in the Japanese market in 2016, but the automaker has yet to introduce the technology in North America.

Unlike other hybrids, where both the gas engine and battery directly contribute to the vehicle’s acceleration, the Nissan e-Power System’s gas engine only generates electricity and is “100% motor-driven,” according to the company’s website.

The first wave of hybrid cars will be imported from Japan next year. But Meunier said he wants to produce about 300,000 “next generation” e-Power rogues in Smyrna starting in 2027.

Additionally, the company plans to renovate its Dechard engine plant to localize e-Power in the state.

“If we could do that, we would be in a much better place,” Meunier said.

But Meunier said converting a gas engine plant into a hybrid plant is no easy task.

“We are working on localizing e-Power, but no decisions have been made due to the complexity across the supply chain,” Meunier said. “I’m committed to Japan and I know the state of Tennessee supports this and will help us get there.”

Meunier said he met with Senator Marcia Blackburn last week to discuss speeding up the e-Power localization process.

Sen. Blackburn’s office did not respond to a request for comment.

President Trump’s banquet hall construction and east wing demolition are illegal: lawsuit

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President Trump’s banquet hall construction and east wing demolition are illegal: lawsuit

The federal lawsuit names President Trump, the National Park Service and several other government officials involved in the rapidly expanding project.

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The National Trust for Historic Preservation filed a lawsuit on Dec. 12 aimed at blocking construction of President Donald Trump’s new White House ballroom, calling it illegal and asking a court to halt further construction until the plan goes through a legally mandated review process.

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, names Trump, the National Park Service and several other government officials involved in the rapidly expanding project, which already includes the demolition of the East Tower and has drawn the ire of preservationists and former first ladies, including Hillary Clinton and Michelle Obama.

“No president, President Trump, President Biden, or anyone else, is legally permitted to demolish any portion of the White House without any vetting,” the complaint states. “And a president who builds a ballroom on public land without giving the public an opportunity to be consulted is not legally allowed.”

The 90,000-square-foot ballroom project has a $300 million price tag and is expected to seat about 1,000 people. This is an increase from plans announced in July for a banquet hall that would seat 650 people at a cost of $200 million.

The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 requires a review of projects that affect historic buildings, and excludes the White House, Supreme Court building, and U.S. Capitol.

National Trust CEO Carol Quillen said in a statement that submitting the project for review to the National Capital Planning Commission, the only planning agency with the authority to review construction, will protect the “iconic historic features” of the White House campus as construction progresses.

“Soliciting comments from the American people is a sign of respect and will help ensure a lasting legacy worthy of a government of, by, and for the people.”

The White House rejected the premise of the lawsuit on December 12th.

“President Trump has full legal authority to modernize, renovate and beautify the White House, as all of his predecessors have done,” White House press secretary Davis Ingle said in a statement.

The complaint alleges that construction has already begun, a claim the White House has repeatedly said is not true. Engle said the sound of a pile driver that Trump was recently talking about, much to the annoyance of first lady Melania Trump, was coming from the ongoing demolition work.

President Trump’s White House maintains that the NCPC has no jurisdiction over the demolition of federal buildings, only their construction. Under previous administrations, even minor renovations or changes to buildings such as sheds went through a review process.

Will Scharf, the Trump-appointed chairman of the National Capital Planning Commission, said on Dec. 4 that the White House would submit a plan for review this month. The commission, which oversees the development of federal property in the Washington, D.C., area, was not consulted when the East Building was demolished in October to make way for a banquet hall.

Shortly after demolition of the East Tower began on October 20, Quillen claimed that President Trump’s project would “overwhelm the White House itself” at 55,000 square feet, adding that “(the addition) could permanently destroy the White House’s carefully balanced classical design with its two small, low East and West wings.”

(This story has been updated with more information.)

European Commission plans to abolish ban on internal combustion engines in 2035

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European Commission plans to abolish ban on internal combustion engines in 2035

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The European Commission will move to reverse a plan to effectively ban new internal combustion engine cars from 2035, an EU official said on Friday, in a move that would be a major victory for Germany, which has sought protection for carmakers.

Manfred Weber, leader of the European Parliament’s largest party, EPP, has suggested in previous statements that there may be an alternative to car manufacturers’ fleet targets, which would be to cut CO2 emissions by 90% from 2035 onwards.

The planned ban was a key part of the EU’s strategy to drive the continent’s decarbonization and encourage the development of electric vehicles. But Brussels faces intense lobbying from Germany and its carmakers, which say they face stiff competition from China.

Electric car details: Stellantis confirms that the small Fiat Topolino EV will be launched in the US market

“Next Tuesday, the European Commission will submit a clear proposal to abolish the ban on internal combustion engines,” Weber said at a press conference in Heidelberg, Germany.

Automakers are under pressure

Weber, a German member of the European Parliament and leader of the EPP group, said it should be up to markets and consumers to decide how climate change targets are achieved. This is the same claim made by major European automakers such as Volkswagen VOWG_p.DE, Stellantis STLAM.MI and Mercedes-Benz MBGn.DE.

The European Commission is expected to announce the planned system on December 16, but said it would not comment on any proposals in advance.

Weber did not provide further details, but said late Thursday that under the new plan, automakers’ new vehicle registration targets for 2035 and beyond would require a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions.

“There is no 100% target even after 2040,” he told the tabloid Bild.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who was also present at Friday’s press conference, said electric vehicles remain the main path to carbon neutrality, but other technologies exist, such as synthetic fuels.

“And that’s exactly what we mean by technology openness. This gives the industry real planning security,” Merz said.

Germany is lobbying hard for the planned ban to be overturned, worried that its automakers will come under even more pressure as Asian rivals expand into Europe, taking a heavy hit from U.S. import tariffs.

In a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen last month, Merz argued that automakers needed more flexibility after demand for electric cars did not meet industry expectations.

“A large part of the European automotive industry, including Germany, and in particular the supplier industry, is in a very difficult economic situation. Therefore, the European framework conditions need to be amended as soon as possible so that this industry can have a future in Europe.”

Reporting by Tilman Blasshofer, Timm Reichert, Ludwig Burger, Christoph Steitz; Additional reporting by Philip Blenkinsop; Editing by Thomas Seythal, Matthias Williams, Andrew Heavens

New Epstein photo of Trump and Clinton released by Democrats

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New Epstein photo of Trump and Clinton released by Democrats

The disclosure comes as the Justice Department faces a Dec. 19 deadline to release files related to the Epstein investigation under legislation approved by Congress and signed by President Trump.

WASHINGTON – House Democrats have received a trove of 95,000 more photos from the estate of accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and released 19 images of Presidents Donald Trump, Bill Clinton and other celebrities.

The photo release is the latest push by Democrats to urge the Justice Department to release all files related to Epstein’s criminal investigation.

Under a bill that President Trump first opposed and later signed, Congress set a Dec. 19 release deadline. Three federal judges have authorized the release of grand jury reports and other investigative evidence against Epstein and his close aide Ghislaine Maxwell.

It is unclear why Democrats on the House Oversight Committee chose to release these 19 photos, which included images of sex toys and separate snapshots of various VIPs whose past relationships with Epstein were already widely known.

Jeffrey Epstein’s Island Captured in new ‘never seen before’ photo

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New photo shows Epstein with Trump, Bannon and other celebrities

A new photo released by the Democratic House Oversight Committee shows Jeffrey Epstein with a prominent figure.

The photos were published without captions identifying or providing the scene, date, location, or background of the celebrity in the photo.

“All we want is complete transparency,” said House Majority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.). “That’s what Epstein survivors deserve and demand.”

more: How Trump and ‘great guy’ Jeffrey Epstein’s party-boy friendship finally ended

One photo shows Trump, who was a longtime friend of Epstein in the 1990s and early 2000s, posing for a photo with women whose faces have been painted black. In various photos, he is seen chatting and sitting next to women. One depicts a “Trump Condom” sign.

Other images below the sign include former President Bill Clinton, director Woody Allen, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, and former British prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who was recently stripped of his royal title by his brother Charles III. One image shows Allen talking with former Trump adviser Steve Bannon.

Where do these photos come from?

Democrats on the House Oversight Committee have sought and received documents containing these photos from Jeffrey Epstein’s estate and have gradually released the information. They also released a trove of emails, as well as photos and videos from Mr. Epstein’s private island.

These are not the same documents and information that the Justice Department is required by law to release by Dec. 19.

Epstein died in federal prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. The death was ruled a suicide.

–Sarah D. Wire

Rep. Robert Garcia of California, the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, told reporters on Dec. 12 that he expected the committee to release more photos in the coming days as committee staff continues to review and edit images to protect survivors.

“We’ve probably gone through about 25,000 of them so far,” he said. “We will continue to publish more photos in the coming days and weeks.”

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Ghislaine Maxwell’s files receive release order

A judge has ordered the release of case files related to Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein after Congress authorized the release of more information.

Garcia said the photos his staff reviewed were disturbing, but he declined to provide further details.

“Some of the other photos we didn’t release today are incredibly disturbing,” he said.

Woody Allen’s name also appears in Epstein’s emails

Woody Allen’s name appeared in Epstein’s emails previously released by the Republican majority on the House Oversight Committee.

Epstein’s name is mentioned in emails between him, biotech venture capitalist Boris Nikolic, and PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel. According to the documents, both men had an email relationship with Epstein.

In a 2011 email, Epstein shared a Daily Beast article that mentioned Allen and Nikolic. “How does The Daily Beast know about Woody Allen’s dinner with his crew?” Nikolic asks. “Who knows? Some of your employees?”

In a 2014 email, Epstein asked Thiel if he was interested in Woody Allen. Later in the chain, he says, “we’re thinking about casual dinners with Woody.”

–Erin Mansfield

This story is developing. Please check the latest information.

BBVA embeds AI into banking workflows with ChatGPT Enterprise

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BBVA embeds AI into banking workflows with ChatGPT Enterprise

BBVA is using ChatGPT Enterprise to embed AI into its core banking workflows and overhaul its risks and services in this area.

For the banking industry, the challenge of generative AI is rarely one of adoption. It’s about value extraction. BBVA addressed this issue by integrating OpenAI’s platform directly into its operational backbone, a decision that will bring the tool to all departments of the bank. This 10x expansion represents one of the largest ever corporate developments in the financial sector.

The bank’s approach prioritizes data over hype. BBVA began working with OpenAI in May 2024, deploying 3,300 accounts to test the waters. This pilot phase allowed the agency to validate its use case before expanding its staff to 11,000 people.

The results of this interim deployment of AI in banking provided the necessary business case. Employees using this tool saved nearly three hours per week on daily tasks. Additionally, engagement was high, with over 80% of users logging in daily. Staff created thousands of custom GPTs to handle specific collaboration and administrative tasks, proving the utility of bottom-up innovation rather than top-down mandates.

Impact of ChatGPT on banking

This agreement is more than just a productivity tool. The aim is to restructure banking functions. BBVA will leverage this partnership to streamline risk analysis, a resource-intensive area for all financial institutions. Additionally, the agreement focuses on redesigning the software development process and improving general employee support.

“We are pioneers in digital and mobile transformation, and now we are entering the AI ​​era with even greater ambitions. Our partnership with OpenAI will accelerate the native integration of artificial intelligence across the bank, creating a smarter, proactive and fully personalized banking experience that stays ahead of the needs of every customer,” said Carlos Torres Vila, Chairman of BBVA.

Deploying AI in a highly regulated environment like banking requires strict controls. This global rollout includes enterprise-grade security and privacy measures to ensure client data is protected while staff access OpenAI’s latest models. The ChatGPT deployment includes tools to create internal agents that securely connect to BBVA’s existing systems and banking processes.

To ensure the effective use of these tools, the companies are collaborating on a structured implementation model and specialized training programs. This addresses a common pitfall in enterprises where software is deployed without the necessary skills to take advantage of it.

Improving your banking experience with AI

This effort also targets client interfaces. BBVA has already introduced Blue, a virtual assistant built on an OpenAI model that allows customers to manage their cards and accounts using natural language. Future plans include integrating the product to allow customers to interact directly with their banks through ChatGPT.

To facilitate this, BBVA will have a dedicated team working directly with OpenAI’s product and research departments. This direct line is aimed at accelerating banks’ transition to becoming “AI-native” institutions.

“BBVA is a great example of how leading financial institutions can implement AI with real ambition and speed,” said Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI. “This expanded collaboration will allow BBVA to embed our AI into the core of its products and operations, improving the overall banking experience for customers.”

See also: Complexity: AI agents take over complex enterprise tasks

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See photos of New York City’s ‘reimagined’ Target SoHo

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See photos of New York City’s ‘reimagined’ Target SoHo

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Target has unveiled a new “unique concept store” in New York City where “everyday shopping meets play, discovery and style.”

The reimagined Target SoHo in New York City’s SoHo neighborhood is “a bold new chapter in Target’s commitment to style and design” and “a new expression of the Target brand,” the company said in a Dec. 9 news release.

Target’s new store is partially “inspired by the creative rhythms of New York City,” offering customers “an experience that pulsates with the energy of New York City.”

Target said of the new store, “From trend-worthy apparel and beauty products to carefully selected home products and seasonal drops, Target SoHo offers a dynamic, ever-evolving assortment designed to stay abreast of the next trends, making it the ultimate destination for guests who want to shop on-trend.”

Some say it wasn’t worth it. They waited in the cold for their Target favor bags.

See photos of Target’s new concept store

“Commitment to style”

The main features of the new store are:

  • curator: A seasonal editorial led by the Target team in partnership with New York’s Tastemakers, Curated By connects guests with influential voices in fashion and lifestyle for a personal glimpse into their favorite Target finds across fashion, beauty and home. Launching the first “Curated By” edit: actress and comedian Megan Stalter.
  • The Drop @ Target Soho: A rotating showcase of seasonal styles, “The Drop is where Target’s trend-forward energy lives.” Expect new and exciting discoveries across fashion, beauty, home and lifestyle to be unveiled each month.
  • Broadway Beauty Bar: A rotating selection of Target’s best beauty items, hand-picked by beauty trendsetters. Target describes the bar as a “beautiful playground designed for experimentation, creativity, and social sharing.” Customers can also sample products and capture content in the Viral Vanity studio.
  • Gondola gifts: “The photogenic installation is designed to offer playful discovery and gift inspiration” and showcases an assortment of exclusive Target brand merchandise.
  • selfie checkout

“This store boldly reflects our commitment to style and is just one part of our larger investment in Target’s design-led future as we extend our roots even deeper in New York City,” Carla Sylvester, executive vice president and chief guest experience officer, said in a statement. “Target SoHo brings together the best of Target and the best of New York: elevated products, immersive storytelling and experiences for guests to explore, express and be inspired.”

Target SoHo continues to evolve

Target added that the store will continue to evolve into a “fully immersive Target experience” in 2026 and beyond.

“Guests can expect new experience zones, seasonal activations, and a program of cafes and events,” the company said, adding, “The store will continually adapt and change as Target explores how different concepts and products resonate with consumers in this creative and experiential environment.”

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Contact her at sshafiq@gannett.com and follow her on X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.

President Donald Trump considers reclassifying marijuana at the federal level

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President Donald Trump considers reclassifying marijuana at the federal level

Marijuana is currently classified as a Schedule I drug, which the DEA describes as a substance with “no medical use and a high potential for abuse.”

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The Washington Post and CNBC report that President Donald Trump is considering an executive order aimed at loosening federal marijuana regulations to make it easier to access the drug, which is already legal in many states.

The executive order directs federal agencies to classify marijuana as a less dangerous substance, according to the Post. According to CNBC, President Trump could issue the order as early as next week.

A White House official told USA TODAY that “no final decision has yet been made regarding the rescheduling of marijuana.”

Marijuana is currently classified by the federal government as a Schedule I drug, which the Drug Enforcement Administration describes as a substance with “no medical use and a high potential for abuse.” Schedule 1 drugs are considered the most dangerous. These include heroin, LSD, and ecstasy.

President Trump said in August that he was “considering reclassifying” marijuana, noting that the issue has supporters and detractors.

“Some people love it, some people hate it. Some people hate the very concept of marijuana,” he said.

President Trump has taken an aggressive approach to drug enforcement during his second term, most notably with military strikes against drug-smuggling vessels off the coast of Venezuela. However, his stance on marijuana is less restrictive. During the 2024 campaign, Trump supported a ballot measure in Florida that would legalize the drug, but it ultimately failed.

“I believe it’s time to end unnecessary arrests and incarcerations of adults for small amounts of marijuana for personal use,” President Trump said in a statement about the Florida voting plan.

Marijuana is legal in 45 states for medical or recreational purposes, and support for legalization is growing. An October Gallup poll found that 64% of Americans support legalization, up from 36% two decades ago.

According to the newspaper, President Trump spoke with House Speaker Mike Johnson on December 10 about reclassifying marijuana.

The White House did not respond to requests for comment.

If marijuana were reclassified, it would not be legalized at the federal level, but it would make it easier for the marijuana industry to operate and research the drug.

Former President Joe Biden began a reclassification push in 2022 through the Department of Health and Human Services and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The HHS review calls for marijuana to be listed as Schedule III, which the DEA describes as a “drug with a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence.” DEA’s proposed rules to reschedule marijuana are on hold.

Contributor: Sarah Wyer

These popular holiday plants can be dangerous to pets

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These popular holiday plants can be dangerous to pets

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If you decorate the hall with natural plants such as holly, poinsettia, mistletoe, amaryllis, it is better to keep them out of the reach of pets or reconsider the decoration.

Many holiday plants are popular this time of year because they provide green, red, and other vibrant colors during the normally gray and brown winter months. They make great gifts for hosts or anyone else who seems to have it all, and are often the centerpiece of home holiday decor.

However, these berries, conifers, and leaves can contain chemicals and other hazards for pets, especially cats and dogs.

Here’s what you need to know:

Pets should not eat Christmas trees and wreaths.

Holly’s pretty prickly leaves and bright red berries add a pop to garlands and tabletop decorations. However, if you have dogs or cats, it’s best to keep them away from your best buds. According to PetMD.com, holly leaves and berries can cause gastrointestinal upset and lethargy in dogs. Symptoms are usually temporary and resolve on their own, but for some dogs it can become a serious problem, says PetMD. Cats may experience severe vomiting, difficulty walking, and loss of appetite.

Any dog ​​owner knows that dogs love sticks. So imagine their excitement when you bring the whole tree into the house. However, keep an eye on your dog around the Christmas tree, as chewing on pine needles and branches can upset your dog’s tummy and cause blockages.

Cats can also get sick from Christmas trees. The oils in pine needles can cause stomach upset, vomiting, loss of appetite, as well as inflammation and obstruction of the intestinal tract. If you have pets at your Christmas tree, make sure there are no additives in the tree’s water either, as they may jump off the tree stand, according to the Penn State College of Agriculture Extension.

Yews, another evergreen popular in wreaths, wreaths, and flower arrangements, can be more dangerous. Its berries and waxy needles can cause abnormal heart rates, high blood pressure, tremors and seizures when ingested by dogs and cats, says PetMD.

Poinsettias and other holiday flowers can be poisonous

Poinsettias are perhaps the flower most associated with the holiday season. Also, since they are often placed on the floor or table, dogs and cats may find them tempting to chew or eat. However, pets that eat poinsettia flowers or leaves can experience drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and resolve on their own, but if they persist for more than two or three episodes, contact your veterinarian, PetMD advises.

In some good news, a post published by Purdue University points out that poinsettias can pose a serious risk to pets if they eat large quantities, but mistletoe can be highly poisonous (more on that later).

Care for those plants: How much water does a poinsettia need? Tips to make the holiday season last longer

Amaryllis is a popular gift, the flowers are beautiful, and the bulbs mature into beautiful winter blooms. However, if your dog eats any part of the plant, it can cause gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and diarrhea (including bloody stools). They may also experience abnormal heart rate, high blood pressure, tremors, and seizures, PetMD says. If you think your dog has eaten any part of the plant, it is best to contact your emergency veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661.

Lilies are also popular as holiday gifts, but many varieties are extremely dangerous to cats. Cats that ingest lily flowers, pollen, and leaves can develop kidney failure and die, and even water from a vase containing lilies can be toxic to cats. If your cat ingests lily parts, pollen, or water, contact your veterinarian or pet poison hotline immediately.

Please be careful mistletoe too much

If you want to sneak a peck under the mistletoe, make sure to hang it high enough that your furry friend can’t reach it, says PetMD.

If this American plant is ingested in small amounts (a sip or two), it can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.

However, if your dog eats too much American or European mistletoe, it can cause serious problems, including high blood pressure and abnormal heart rate. Your dog may be lethargic or weak, but may not show any symptoms. That can lead to delays in treatment and, in turn, serious problems such as heart and organ damage. Cats can also get sick from eating mistletoe, and like dogs, European species are especially dangerous, Penn State says.

How to care for holiday plants

Plants also require care to keep them healthy, and Penn State offers these tips:

According to Penn State University, poinsettias are sensitive to sudden changes in temperature as well as water and low light, so ideally keep them in a sunny window, keep them well watered, use a water-soluble fertilizer, and mist them occasionally.

The ideal temperature for poinsettias is 55 to 75 degrees. Once the flowers have finished flowering and the leaves have fallen, Penn State University recommends pruning the plant 3 to 5 inches above the soil, placing it in a cool location (55 to 59 degrees range), watering occasionally, and repotting in the spring. If nighttime temperatures are consistently above 60 degrees, place it outdoors in light shade and bring it back indoors in August.

If you have a Christmas cactus, place it in a cool place and reduce watering frequency until flower buds form, then increase watering and temperature. Once the flowers have finished blooming, move them to a cool, sunny location with indirect light. In summer, it can be grown outdoors in bright shade. When fall returns, the plant can be placed in a bright, cool spot, but once buds become noticeable again, move it to a brighter light spot, says Penn State.

(This story has been updated to add new information.)

“Heat Rivalry” brings gay sex to the fore. That’s a big change.

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“Heat Rivalry” brings gay sex to the fore. That’s a big change.

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Watching “Heat Rivalry” on HBO Max is also super sexy.

The Canadian ice hockey drama (new episodes available Fridays through December 26th) has been heating up TV screens in recent weeks, focusing on the hot secret romance between rising professional hockey players Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storey). The two engage in a cat-and-mouse game of sexual tension, sneaking into each other’s hotel rooms every time they fall into each other’s orbit as the hockey seasons pass over the years. There’s some nudity, and sex scenes are a must.

Most TV series cut out sex, especially gay sex. If a series depicts too much sex, it risks being accused of existing solely to titillate viewers or that the show is exploiting the actors’ bodies. If you can’t focus sufficient When it comes to sex, some would argue that we treat it like something to be ashamed of. It’s a fine line.

But the fact that a highly graphic series featuring gay characters is garnering so much interest (from a primarily female audience, according to the series’ director) suggests that perhaps we’re not as sexphobic as some parts of the internet have led us to believe. As of December 10th, it is ranked 3rd on the HBO Max Top 10 chart, up from 6th place a week ago. Series of this nature have burst into the zeitgeist before, including Queer as Folk, True Blood, and most recently, Fellow Traveler, but never before has this kind of meme-worthy content flooding social media feeds sparked popularity, nor has it coincided with the rise of trad wives and more reserved youth.

According to Gallup, Americans’ overall moral views on topics such as unmarried sex and divorce have remained stable or slightly declined in recent years. And while 68% of Americans still support same-sex marriage, that number is down from a high of 71% just a few years ago.

Does “Heated Rivalry” signal a new era in which it’s acceptable to buck these trends by showing and talking about sex, especially gay sex? It’s too early to tell, but experts say the only way to combat concerns about gay sex in particular is to learn about it.

Where does the prejudice against gay sex come from?

Anal sex has long been demonized, but its origins can be traced back to religious texts. But “it has been expressed in art going back thousands of years, including in Asia, South America and Europe,” Debra Lynn Herbenick, a professor at the Indiana University School of Public Health and author of “Yes Your Kid: What Parents Need to Know About Sex with Today’s Teens,” previously told USA TODAY.

In any case, moral prejudice persists. “Religious discourses that specifically demonize homosexuality and non-reproductive forms of sexual intimacy also shape the public’s view of anal sex,” Cornel Gray, assistant professor of gender, sexuality and women’s studies at Western University in Canada, previously told USA TODAY. “When we talk about the stigma against anal sex, we also have to face homophobic bias.”

In case you missed it: D.C. was in the news over the Senate sex scandal. What that said about the way we discuss gay sex.

What our obsession with “heated rivalry” says about us

“Heated Rivalry” exposes the contradictory conversations about sex in today’s society. Data doesn’t lie. According to a 2022 Kinsey Institute study, one in four Gen Z adults have never had sex with a partner.

But anecdotally, social media users can’t get enough of the “heated rivalry.”

“I was hoping I wouldn’t fall into the gay porn pipeline, but my eyes aren’t deceiving me,” one X user wrote. “The characters are multifaceted, the plot is intense, and mean? Yeah, we need more.” Another added, “They need to slow down with this heated rivalry content, but I’m worried they can’t address this all at once.”

Explicit sex scenes and romance scenes between two men are acceptable to viewers. something“It’s not as simple as a cultural condemnation of the growing presence of conservative elements and ideas in our social and political culture,” said Michael Blonsky, a Harvard professor and author of “Queer History of the United States for Young People.”

“That may certainly be an aspect of it,” he says, but “it is probably a mistake to ascribe a single reason or influence to any aspect of popular culture, because the very nature of popular and media culture is based on a wide range of emotions, impulses, ideas, and ideologies.” It is also an outlet for desire and curiosity, something that some people cannot, will not, or are not allowed to enjoy.

Learn more about the show: All About HBO Max’s Explicitly Gay Hockey Romance ‘Heat Rivals’

No matter how you look at it, there’s no denying that “Heated Rivals” sparks a rich and diverse conversation about queerness, sexuality, and the queerphobia faced by queer professional athletes, says Melvin Williams, associate professor of communication and media studies at Pace University. Additionally, these online reactions to sex scenes confirm that many people are accepting of queer sex, despite the rise of a more sanitary culture.

And people aren’t just in it for the sex. “People love to talk about the spicy scenes in Rivals, but what really speaks to me is the genuine tenderness of Elijah and Shane’s relationship,” wrote one X user.

Not only is this the sexiest time of the year, but it’s also probably the most thought-provoking.

Will banks and post offices be open on Christmas Day 2025?

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Will banks and post offices be open on Christmas Day 2025?

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Christmas is approaching. If you’re planning to mail a package or do any banking over Christmas, it’s a good idea to plan ahead.

Some restaurant chains will remain open on December 25 this year, but nearly all grocery stores and retail chains will remain closed, as will banks, post offices and delivery services.

The stock market will also be closed on Christmas Day, and on Christmas Eve, the market will close early at 1:00 pm Eastern time in preparation for the holiday.

Here’s what you need to know about banks, post offices and delivery services and whether they’ll be open this Christmas.

Will we see snow on Christmas?: What you need to know about the White Christmas forecast.

When is Christmas 2025?

Christmas is Thursday, December 25th.

Will the post office be open on Christmas? Will my mail be delivered?

According to the U.S. Postal Service website, post offices will be closed and no mail will be delivered on Christmas Day.

Post offices will resume retail trading on December 26th and mail will be delivered on the same day.

Are banks open on Christmas?

Branches of banks including Bank of America, Trust, PNC, Capital One, Wells Fargo, Citibank and JPMorgan Chase will close on Thursday, December 25th.

The bank will reopen with regular business hours on Friday, December 26th.

Are delivery services like UPS and FedEx open on Christmas?

UPS pickup and delivery services will not be available on Christmas, and UPS Store locations may be closed, according to the company’s website. Please check with your local store for specific business hours.

The company says UPS Express Critical is available 24/7. For more information, call 1-800-714-8779 or visit mnx.com.

FedEx pickup and delivery services will also be unavailable and FedEx office locations will close on December 25th. FedEx Custom Critical is also available 24/7. For more information, call 1-800-762-3787.

Gabe Hauari is USA TODAY’s national trends news reporter. You can follow him at X @gabehauari Or email Gdhauari@gannett.com.

FDA approves first home brain stimulation device for depression

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FDA approves first home brain stimulation device for depression

Kamal Chowdhury
|Reuters

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Flow Neuroscience’s home brain stimulator to treat depression, making it an alternative to typical antidepressants that can cause side effects with long-term use, the company announced Thursday.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, depression rates in the United States have skyrocketed by 60% over the past decade, affecting more than 20 million adults.

Flow’s FL-100 delivers a gentle electrical current to the parts of the brain that regulate mood and is designed for home use under remote supervision. This is the first time this type of device has been approved in the US

The device is approved for the treatment of moderate to severe major depressive disorder in adults 18 years of age and older who are considered intolerant to drug therapy, either as a sole treatment or in combination with other treatments.

Flow plans to launch the device as a prescription-only treatment in the United States in the second quarter of 2026.

CEO Erin Lee told Reuters the company is targeting a retail price of $500 to $800 in the United States. Flow is in negotiations with insurance payers and expects to announce a coverage partnership in early 2026, Lee added.

Flo said the device is used by more than 55,000 people in Europe, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Hong Kong.

The FDA’s approval was based on a mid-stage study in which 58% of patients achieved remission after 10 weeks, many of whom were already taking medication or receiving treatment. The company said 77% of users worldwide reported improvement in symptoms within three weeks.

Typically, patients follow a 12-week course, starting with five sessions per week for three weeks and tapering to two or three sessions per week for the remaining nine weeks. Each session lasts 30 minutes.

Flo said side effects are generally mild and temporary, including skin irritation, headaches and tingling at the electrode site, and skin burns have also occurred when the device’s pads were reused or allowed to dry.

Reporting by Kamal Chowdhury in Bangalore. Edited by: Krishna Chandra Elli

Michigan State Coach Arrested, Arraignment Updated December 12th

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Michigan State Coach Arrested, Arraignment Updated December 12th

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  • Michigan State football coach Sherone Moore was fired on Dec. 10 and arrested in connection with an assault investigation.
  • The university announced that Moore was terminated for cause following an investigation into his inappropriate relationship with a staff member.
  • Moore remained in jail as of late Dec. 11, pending formal criminal charges and an expected court arraignment.

Sherrone Moore, who was fired as Michigan’s football coach on Dec. 10, remained in an Ann Arbor-area jail late Dec. 11 pending formal criminal charges related to an assault investigation by the Pittsfield Township Police Department.

Michigan State announced Moore’s firing in a statement at 4:43 p.m. ET on Dec. 10, minutes after police reported Moore was taken into custody following a 4:10 p.m. “alleged assault” call. Moore was arrested that night and booked into the Washtenaw County Jail, where he remained as of 11 p.m., according to jail records.

As of late Dec. 11, no criminal charges had been filed against Moore. Moore is scheduled to appear in court for arraignment on Dec. 12, according to Pittsfield Township Police.

The university said in a statement that Moore was fired for cause after an investigation found “credible evidence” that he “had an inappropriate relationship with a staff member.”

On Dec. 11, Michigan State Interim President Domenico Grasso addressed the firing of 39-year-old Moore in a letter to faculty, staff, and students, saying the coach was “immediately terminated” when his alleged conduct became known.

“This behavior by the University of Michigan will never be tolerated. No one will tolerate it,” Grasso said. “I have been in close contact with the board and am committed to doing the right thing.”

Grasso said the university’s investigation into the allegations is ongoing.

Moore led the University of Michigan to a 17-8 record in his two seasons leading the program, including 1-0 as interim coach in 2023. The 9-3 Wolverines will be replaced by interim coach Biff Poggi ahead of their scheduled game against No. 14 Texas in the Citrus Bowl on Dec. 31.

USA TODAY Sports will bring you live updates and developments regarding Moore. follow me:

always east

In general, Washtenaw County prosecutors and law enforcement could detain recently fired University of Michigan coach Sherrone Moore for 48 to 72 hours without formal criminal charges.

Law enforcement officials have told the media they expect Moore to be arraigned on Friday, Dec. 12, but Bloomfield Hills criminal defense attorney John Freeman said 72 hours is typically the maximum amount of time a criminal case can be tried without charges.

— Dave Boucher, Detroit Free Press

As of 7 a.m. Friday, Dec. 12, the online court system that Washtenaw County uses to track cases did not contain information about any hearings or charges that may involve Moore. However, the Pittsfield Township Police Department said in a statement Thursday, Dec. 11, that it expects Moore to appear in court Friday.

The University of Michigan has been down this path before. In 2020, he was the university’s president. In 2022, he will become university president. Head football coach in 2025.

All were accused of inappropriate conduct involving other people at the university. And now the university is using a law firm to investigate football coach Sherone Moore. This was the same law firm that assisted university president Mark Schlissel in his investigation just a few years ago.

The university has not said which policy Moore is alleged to have violated, but it appears to be Policy No. 201.97, which was introduced in response to the sexual harassment scandal involving former president Martin Philbert, the school’s second-highest administrator. The policy prohibits most supervisor-employee relationships and was implemented in 2021, just before Schlissel was fired in early 2022.

Almost four years later, Michigan State is back in action with Moore.

– Brent Schrotenboer

The collapse of the University of Michigan’s roster has begun.

Matt Ludwig, a four-star tight end from Montana State, has been granted release from his signed National Letter of Intent. The 6-4, 220-pound athlete from Billings West, Mont., was considered the No. 1 player in the state of Montana, the No. 12 tight end in the country and a top-250 recruit in the 2026 class, according to the 247Sports Composite Rankings.

Billings West High School coach Rob Stanton told USA TODAY Sports, “The principal bought him a cap and gown and they just rushed (the ceremony) in the hallway. And about 20 minutes later (Ludwig’s) phone exploded.”

— Josh Peter

USA TODAY’s Dec. 11 live update covered Moore’s potential arraignment date, recruits’ reactions to the dismissal, a statement from university interim president Domenico Grasso, and more. Check here for the latest information on December 11th.

Are retail stores open on Christmas? Home Depot details and more

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Are retail stores open on Christmas? Home Depot details and more

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Christmas is approaching. If you’ve been putting off your Christmas shopping, it might be a good idea to change your habits this year.

Whether you’re looking for new clothes to wear to a Christmas gathering or a gift for that special someone, most retail chains will be open on Christmas Eve this year, but some are adjusting their opening hours. Most companies will be closed on Christmas Day.

Here’s what you need to know about the retailer and whether it will be open this Thursday, December 25th. The business hours of the provider are displayed. We recommend calling your local store to make sure it’s open before you leave home.

More holiday news: Christmas tree shopping? Why real trees could be traded in 2025.

When is Christmas Day in 2025?

This year’s Christmas Day is Thursday, December 25th.

Is Walmart open on Christmas?

All Walmart stores will be closed on Christmas, a Walmart spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Target open on Christmas?

No, all Target stores will be closed on Christmas Day, the company announced in a news release last month.

Are TJ Maxx, Marshall’s, and HomeGoods open on Christmas?

A spokesperson for TJX Companies told USA TODAY that all three stores will close on Dec. 25.

Is JC Penney open on Christmas?

No, all J.C. Penney stores will close on Dec. 25, the company told USA TODAY.

Is Nordstrom open on Christmas?

The Nordstrom store will close on December 25, the company said.

Is Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Ace Hardware open on Christmas?

All Home Depot and Lowe’s stores will close on Dec. 25, the companies confirmed to USA TODAY.

Ace Hardware stores are independently owned and operated, but the majority will be closed on Christmas Day, the company said.

Is REI open on Christmas?

No, REI stores will be closed on Christmas Day, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Burlington open on Christmas?

No, the Burlington store will be closed on Christmas Day, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Is Belk open on Christmas?

The Belk store will close on December 25, the company said.

Is Sephora open on Christmas?

Sephora store hours vary based on the region and the mall’s mandated hours, the company told USA TODAY. Customers can use the company’s store locator to find the opening hours of a particular store.

Is IKEA open on Christmas?

No, IKEA stores will be closed on Christmas Day, the company confirmed to USA TODAY.

Are Staples, Office Depot, or OfficeMax open on Christmas?

No, all three stores will be closed on Christmas Day, the companies told USA TODAY.

Is PetSmart or Petco open on Christmas?

Both stores will close on Dec. 25, they confirmed to USA TODAY.

Is Tractor Supply Company open on Christmas?

No, all Tractor Supply Co. stores will be closed on Christmas Day, a company spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Gabe Hauari is USA TODAY’s national trends news reporter. You can follow him at X @gabehauari Or email Gdhauari@gannett.com.

Don’t forget this Social Security rule that can cost thousands of dollars

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Don’t forget this Social Security rule that can cost thousands of dollars

Social Security has some rules that can surprise retirees, and one of them can mean big unexpected expenses for seniors.

christy bieber
|The Motley Fool

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Social Security has many complex rules, and it’s important for both current retirees and future retirees to understand them. This is especially true when it comes to rules that can affect the amount of benefits that seniors can take home and spend.

Unfortunately, one Social Security rule can be a big surprise and cost seniors thousands of dollars. Current and future retirees need to be aware of this and be prepared for this so they can take steps to protect their benefits or adjust their budgets if they take a hit.

This Social Security rule may be surprising to many seniors

Social security rules that can be a big surprise for modern people and Future retirees are concerned with taxes on benefits.

Future retirees may think that Social Security contributions are tax-free because they are benefits paid by the government. Many other types of government benefits it’s not Since it is subject to income tax, it is not unreasonable to think that Social Security does not apply to it.

This is especially true since you are paying into the system throughout your career. you already paid Because your paycheck is subject to Social Security taxes, the idea that you’ll be taxed again when you actually receive your benefits may not factor into your retirement planning.

Unfortunately, the rules regarding taxes on Social Security benefits can even be surprising to current retirees. That’s because while the Trump administration touted its success in eliminating taxes on Social Security benefits, the reality is that the tax rules haven’t changed at all.

Instead, the tax rules for Social Security remained unchanged and a new tax credit for older Americans not directly related to Social Security was introduced. However, it is understandable that retirees may be confused about this subject, given some of the statements made by the administration regarding the One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed.

Sadly, if current and future retirees don’t understand the taxes owed to them, they could end up taking home thousands of dollars less in benefits than expected once the IRS takes their share.

What are the rules for taxing Social Security benefits?

Social Security’s tax rules are also surprising for other reasons beyond the simple fact that many seniors may not expect their benefits to be taxed. Another surprise is how low the threshold is when benefits are taxed.

Specifically, up to 50% of benefits are taxable when provisional income reaches $25,000 for single tax filers and $32,000 for married couples filing jointly. Up to 85% of your benefits will be taxed once your preliminary income reaches $34,000 as a single taxpayer or $44,000 as a married couple filing jointly.

Your provisional income is half of your entire Social Security total, plus all of your taxable income and a portion of your non-taxable income. Therefore, even considering that not all income matters, these standards are very low. This is especially true because Social Security benefits weren’t taxed until the 1980s reforms, and at the time only a small portion of high-income people were subject to IRS claims.

However, the problem is that the threshold is not indexed to inflation. It hasn’t increased since it was introduced decades ago. As a result, each year more and more retirees end up paying IRS taxes on a portion of their benefits.

Because there are many other social security rules do Considering inflation, such as the periodic cost-of-living adjustments that retirees receive, the lack of an increase in the tax base in this particular case may seem to make little sense. Unfortunately, this is the reality of Social Security regulations.

Future retirees can prepare and plan to minimize their taxes by investing in a Roth account, since tax-free distributions are not considered when determining whether they reach the Social Security tax threshold.

Those who are currently retired may work with a tax professional to minimize taxes on their benefits, but if you have put your money into a more traditional retirement plan and your provisional income changes are limited, it may be difficult or impossible to avoid taxes entirely.

Still, this tax surprise can cost thousands of dollars, so everyone should know the Social Security tax rules and make financial decisions accordingly.

The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

The Motley Fool is a USA TODAY content partner providing financial news, analysis and commentary designed to help people take control of their financial lives. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY.

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Kristi Noem asked to explain veteran expulsion at House hearing

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Kristi Noem asked to explain veteran expulsion at House hearing

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WASHINGTON – Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was gunned down at the U.S. Capitol as she faced questions related to the department’s immigration efforts, including whether veterans were deported under the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.

Rep. Seth Magaziner, D-Rhode Island, invited Se-joon Park, a Purple Heart recipient who was voluntarily deported under a removal order earlier this year, to participate in a House Homeland Security Committee hearing via Zoom video call. In the five minutes allotted for questions to Noem, Magaziner asked the secretary how many veterans had been deported.

“Sir, we are not deporting American citizens or veterans,” Noem responded.

Magazine Jar went on to profile Park, a U.S. Army veteran who was shot twice while serving in Panama in 1989. Park came to the United States from South Korea at the age of 7. In the 1990s, Park suffered from drug addiction and was arrested for minor drug offenses, the magazine reported.

Park, who has battled a crack cocaine addiction, was charged with possession of a controlled substance and bail jumping, according to NPR. As a green card holder, these charges hurt his chances of naturalization, the newspaper reported.

“Would you like to join us in thanking Park for her contributions to the country?” Magaziner asked Nomu, holding a tablet next to the head of the lawmaker who had made a video call to Park.

“Sir, I thank all the people who serve our country, who follow our laws, who know that our laws matter and that they all need to be enforced,” Noem responded.

When asked if Nom would consider Park’s lawsuit, the secretary said, “We will definitely consider his lawsuit.”

Throughout the hearing, Democrats criticized Noem and the department’s immigration enforcement efforts, including the secretary’s decision to continue deportation flights to El Salvador despite a court order halting them earlier this year. Protesters interrupted her opening remarks, chanting, “Stop the raids on ICE,” “Stop the deportations,” and “Get ICE out of our streets.” Noem left the hearing early to attend a later canceled FEMA Review Advisory Committee meeting, but was met by more protesters outside the hearing room.

Noem’s tenure in the Trump administration has been called into question following the MS NOW report, with White House officials saying he is on “very thin ice” and could be replaced as early as January. President Donald Trump said on December 10 that he was “pleased” with Nomu and said she was “amazing.”

“Our border is the best border in the history of this country. How could I be unhappy?” Trump told reporters during a White House roundtable with business leaders.

Noem remained defiant throughout the hearing, as Democrats denounced her as a liar and Republicans praised her work.

“America is very happy that we finally have a president in the White House who is going to get up every day and keep us safe,” Noem said at the hearing.

Several Democrats, including Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Mississippi), ranking chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, called on Noem to resign.

Asked by Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.) if she would resign if not fired, Noem said, “I would consider asking me to resign as an endorsement of my job.”

Co-pilot usage analysis reveals peak philosophy at 2 a.m.

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Co-pilot usage analysis reveals peak philosophy at 2 a.m.

F. Scott Fitzgerald said, “The true dark night of the soul is always 3 a.m.” Microsoft’s latest Copilot usage analysis suggests that this nocturnal penchant for existential musings remains in the AI ​​era, with conversations about religion and philosophy rising in the rankings during the early morning hours.

The Microsoft AI (MAI) research team analyzed 37.5 million anonymized conversations to understand when and how users use Copilot for different needs. The findings, published Dec. 10, reveal unique patterns of AI use that surprisingly follow human rhythms, from late-night philosophical questions to Valentine’s Day relationship anxiety to the strict distinction between weekday coding and weekend gaming.

Late night existential questions and daytime travel plans

Religion and philosophy conversations increase early in the morning, and travel questions peak during commute times

The report, written by Bea Costa Gomez and Seth Spielman, found that topics about religion and philosophy rise in the rankings during the early morning hours. In contrast, travel-related discussions peak during typical commute times, suggesting that users are planning trips while on the go. “In the early morning hours, there appeared to be more big questions asked, with ‘Religion and Philosophy’ rising to the top,” the researchers wrote in their paper.

Temporal separation reflects different states of mind. During active times, you make practical plans, and during quiet times, you ask meditative questions. This pattern challenges the assumption that AI is just a productivity tool and reveals its role in responding to our fundamental human curiosity.

Health is important at all times when using mobile

Health-related conversations consistently rank highest on mobile devices in every month of 2025

Health-related topics consistently ranked as the most common conversation type on mobile devices throughout 2025, regardless of the time, day, or month. Users turned to Copilot for health tracking, wellness tips, and remarkable, consistent daily management.

“When it comes to mobile for intimacy and immediacy, nothing beats our health,” the researchers wrote.

The predominance of health-related queries on mobile devices rather than desktops suggests that users view smartphones as more personal sidekicks for sensitive topics. Usage analysis shows that AI assistants are becoming incorporated into daily health care routines.

Programming increases on weekdays, games dominate on weekends

August data reveals a clear cyclical pattern between programming and gaming topics. Conversations about programming increased from Monday to Friday, and queries about games spiked over the weekend. Users were equally likely to engage in both topics, but were strictly separated by day of the week.

Programming conversations increase Monday through Friday, and gaming queries spike on weekends

“This crossover suggests a vibrant creative community that loves to code during the week and play just as much on the weekends,” according to the report. Temporal separation suggests that users maintain a clear boundary between work and leisure, even if both involve digital activities.

Relationship inquiries spike on Valentine’s Day in February

According to Copilot’s usage analysis, there was a notable spike in relationship-related conversations in February, especially peaking around Valentine’s Day. Discussions about personal growth and health also increased before the holidays, as users sought guidance on navigating romantic expectations.

“We found a spike in activity as people turned to Copilot for guidance, reminders, and support, whether they were preparing for Valentine’s Day or facing Valentine’s Day or their relationships,” the researchers observed. This pattern reveals how patterns of AI usage align with cultural moments and social pressures, leading users to seek personal advice from AI during emotionally charged times.

From search to advice: changing usage patterns

While information search remains Copilot’s most popular feature, Microsoft’s analysis shows a clear increase in users seeking advice, especially around personal topics like relationships and life decisions.

“The growth of this trend highlights how digital tools are becoming reliable companions for life’s everyday questions,” the report said.

The shift from purely informational queries to advice-seeking queries represents an evolution in the way users conceptualize AI assistants, from search engines to consultants.

How to protect your privacy

Microsoft’s research team emphasized that the analysis preserves user privacy by extracting only a summary of the conversation, not the full content. The system identifies topics and intent while avoiding data leaks at the individual level. “Our system not only anonymizes conversations, but also extracts a summary of the conversation, from which it learns the topic and intent, maintaining complete privacy,” Costa-Gomez and Spielman explained.

The 37.5 million conversation samples represent a portion of Copilot’s total usage, but Microsoft does not reveal its complete user base or conversation volume.

Impact on AI development

According to Microsoft, understanding these patterns of AI usage will help develop features. The company said that by recognizing what matters most to users: support for health, creativity, and important moments, it can design features that naturally fit into everyday life. “These uses make it clear that what Copilot says matters. They show why it is so important that we maintain high standards for quality,” the researchers wrote.

The findings complement recent broader industry analysis of AI usage patterns, including an OpenRouter report showing that Chinese AI models are gaining global adoption due to improved cost efficiency and performance. Microsoft’s temporal focus adds behavioral depth to understanding how AI assistants integrate into human routines.

This research comes as Microsoft expands its AI infrastructure, with the company’s next-generation GB200 cluster now running at MAI.

Usage patterns suggest that AI assistants are evolving beyond tools to companions that adapt to human rhythms. It answers practical questions during the day and entertains users with philosophical musings when they can’t sleep.

See also: Fixed issue where Microsoft ‘Prompts’ fails to deliver AI prompts

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Will the stock market be open or closed on Christmas 2025? See opening hours

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Will the stock market be open or closed on Christmas 2025? See opening hours

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The U.S. stock market will close early on Wednesday, December 24th and will be closed on Thursday, December 25th due to the holidays on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Both the Nasdaq Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange will close at 1 p.m. Eastern Time on Christmas Eve, according to their websites. U.S. bond markets will also close early on Dec. 24, with markets closing at 2 p.m. Eastern time and expected to remain closed on Christmas Day, according to the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association.

Stock and bond markets will reopen on Friday, Dec. 26, with business as usual on Wall Street expected for several days. The next scheduled stock market closure is Thursday, January 1, 2026, for the new year.

The bond market will also close early on New Year’s Eve, with the market closing at 2:00 pm ET on Wednesday, December 31st. The Nasdaq and New York Stock Exchange will close at regular hours on the same day.

Gabe Hauari is USA TODAY’s national trends news reporter. You can follow him at X @gabehauari Or email Gdhauari@gannett.com.

Kilmer Abrego Garcia Release, Kristi Noem Hearing, Redistricting, Taylor Swift, Sherone Moore, AI: Daily Briefing

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Kilmer Abrego Garcia Release, Kristi Noem Hearing, Redistricting, Taylor Swift, Sherone Moore, AI: Daily Briefing

Happy Friday! Welcome to the daily briefing. Let’s end this week with news:

nicole farato Here’s the news you need to know on Friday. We discuss how Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was burned to death in the Capitol, whether party drugs are actually getting stronger, and the best moments of Taylor Swift’s Elas tour docuseries.

Kristi Noem’s Grill. Kilmer Abrego Garcia returns home

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem faced questions Thursday related to the department’s immigration efforts.

Throughout the hearing, Democrats criticized Noem and the department’s immigration enforcement efforts, including the secretary’s decision to continue deportation flights to El Salvador despite a court order halting them earlier this year. At one point, Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-Rhode Island) asked the secretary how many veterans had been deported.

“Sir, we are not deporting American citizens or veterans,” Noem responded. Magaziner went on to introduce a U.S. Army veteran who has voluntarily left the country.

Noem left the hearing early to attend a FEMA Review Advisory Committee meeting (which was later canceled), but was met by protesters outside the hearing room.

Meanwhile, Kilmer Abrego-Garcia, a Salvadoran immigrant at the center of a lawsuit focused on President Trump’s hard-line immigration policies, was released from an immigration detention facility on Thursday after U.S. District Judge Paula Kisinis in Maryland said the Trump administration had no legal basis to deport Abrego-Garcia and misled her during a hearing last month.

More news you need to know right now

  • President Trump targets Indiana Republican Senate leader. The president criticized Indiana Senate President Pro Tempore Roderick Bray, who was one of 21 Republican senators who voted to reject the redistricting bill in the Republican-controlled Senate.
  • The latest incident involving a former University of Michigan coach. Sherone Moore is scheduled to be arraigned in court on Friday.
  • Party drugs are becoming more and more powerful. Experts told USA TODAY that accurate data on how powerful ecstasy has become today is difficult to obtain. That’s because there’s a lot of variation from pill to pill. Still, he says, some studies suggest that the amount of MDMA, a synthetic psychoactive drug, in ecstasy has increased by about 50% over the past 15 years, so it’s definitely gotten more powerful overall.

Let’s take a look

Pitt, Kentucky sweeps NCAA volleyball bracket

The 2025 NCAA Volleyball Tournament has been reduced to 12 participating teams as a result of Thursday’s action. 2 of the top 4 seeds in the tournament — Kentucky and Pittsburgh — We advanced to the Elite Eight. Third-seeded Purdue and Creighton also advance. Creighton will play Kentucky on Saturday, while Pitt will play Purdue for a spot in the Final Four.

I want to talk to you about something.

The biggest and best moments of the ‘End of an Era’ documentary series

Taylor Swift’s six-part docuseries “The End of an Era” on Disney+ features many amazing, unfiltered moments. The first two episodes are available now, with two more coming every Friday until December 26th. Tune in to USA TODAY for the first highlights of Swift’s magical and mysterious Eras Tour.

before going

Have feedback about the daily briefing? Email Nicole at NFallert@usatoday.com.

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