Category Archives: general

general

¿Qué selecciones debutarán en el Mundial 2026?

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Hasta el momento, son cuatro selecciones que jugarán su primera Copa del Mundo en la edición de México, Estados Unidos y Canadá del 2026.

Este hecho representa un hito importante en la historia del torneo, ya que nuevas naciones tendrán la oportunidad de competir en el escenario más grande del fútbol internacional.

La inclusión de estos equipos promete aportar frescura y emoción al campeonato, ampliando la diversidad y el alcance global del evento.
https://www.si.com/mx/futbol/que-selecciones-debutaran-en-mundial-2026

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Photo Shows North Korea’s New Nuclear-Powered Sub as Kim Tests Missiles

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North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un observed the test-firing of a long-range surface-to-air missile shortly before visiting the construction site of a nearly 9,000-ton nuclear-powered submarine on Wednesday.

During his visit, Kim remarked that South Korea also plans to build a nuclear-powered submarine, which would “worsen” regional stability, according to South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency. Newsweek reached out to the U.S. State Department via submission form on Wednesday evening for comment.

**Why It Matters**

North Korea continues to develop weapons despite United Nations sanctions targeting its nuclear and ballistic missile programs—both of which remain destabilizing forces in the region. In October, the Hermit Kingdom unveiled a missile allegedly capable of striking far-range targets. North Korean officials claim the Hwasong-20 missile could hit the continental United States, although this capability has yet to be demonstrated.

**What To Know**

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), North Korea’s state-run news agency, published striking photos of Kim touring the construction site of the 8,700-ton submarine. Flanked by workers and officials, Kim examined the vessel, which is part of the country’s broader effort to modernize its navy. This initiative is one of five key policies the ruling party is pursuing to enhance its defense capabilities, according to KCNA.

Kim also oversaw the test of new missiles designed to improve the country’s capacity to produce advanced missile types. The missile demonstrated reportedly has a range of up to 124 miles.

During his visit to the submarine construction site, Kim emphasized that such developments are necessary in a world that is “by no means peaceful.” He further stated that North Korea has no choice but to develop these capabilities in response to South Korea’s plans to build a similar vessel, which he described as a “threat to its security that must be countered.”

Kim added, “The DPRK regards it as an offensive act severely violating its security and maritime sovereignty.”

**What People Are Saying**

U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this month commented on border security:
“We have one of the strongest borders anywhere in the world. There’s one country that probably has a stronger border. North Korea has a stronger border. North Korea has seven walls of wire. Each of them has a million volts of electricity going through it. So if you get over one, you’re dead the next one. If you get over one, you’re in very bad shape. If you get over two, you’ve set a record. I think we give North Korea the safest border. But ours is pretty safe.”

—

This latest missile and submarine development underscores ongoing tensions on the Korean Peninsula and highlights the challenges facing regional security amid continued weapons advancements by North Korea.
https://www.newsweek.com/photo-shows-north-koreas-new-nuclear-powered-sub-as-kim-tests-missiles-11268986

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The same Knicks issue is rearing its head once again

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An early-season struggle has come back to hurt the Knicks. Dealing with teams that pressure ball handlers aggressively—especially with quick, athletic guards—was something that gave them problems earlier in the season. The Knicks are not particularly quick or athletic, and physicality can at times throw them off their rhythm.

They dealt with it well in wins over the Magic and Spurs in the NBA Cup semifinal and final, and looked to have taken a step forward. But they’ve since lost two of their past three games to the 76ers and Timberwolves, and that physicality discrepancy was a big reason why.

“Not great,” Josh Hart said of how they handled it against the Timberwolves. “They did a good job of getting into the ball. It was kind of getting us out of rhythm and those kinds of things. Give them credit, they played good and we didn’t play well enough today.”

This struggle has resulted in an uptick in turnovers. The Knicks committed 18 and 19 turnovers, respectively, in the two losses to the 76ers and Timberwolves. For the season, they average just 13.7 turnovers per game.

The 76ers had a 14-point advantage in points scored off turnovers. It was less glaring against the Timberwolves, though they still had a two-point advantage on the Knicks and used the turnovers to stymie Knicks’ comeback attempts. Hart led the way with six turnovers in that game.

It is in this area that Jalen Brunson’s absence has been most felt beyond scoring. As the Knicks’ primary orchestrator, Brunson did not commit a single turnover in the two previous games before Tuesday, recording 69 points and 17 assists in that stretch.

“It’s gonna be hard to win on the road if you have 19 turnovers for 22 points off those turnovers,” Knicks coach Mike Brown said after Tuesday’s game. “And part of it those turnovers led to easy baskets in transition. Give Minnesota credit, because they brought a lot of physicality to the game and created a lot of those turnovers.”

The Knicks have been complaining to officials about fouls instead of matching the Timberwolves’ physicality. Frustration boiled over in the third quarter when Hart was assessed a flagrant 1 for hitting out at Rudy Gobert’s knees. Hart had been knocked to the ground battling for a rebound with Gobert and believed he was fouled.

That flagrant was the wrong kind of aggression the Knicks needed.

“I talked to all of our vets,” Brown said. “The officials, they’re not gonna help you win the game. They’re human. They’re gonna make mistakes out there. And we, as a team, starting with me, we have to try to leave the referees alone, because we’re good enough to still go win games.”
https://nypost.com/2025/12/24/sports/the-same-knicks-issue-is-rearing-its-head-once-again/

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Last-minute shoppers wrap up holiday shopping

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BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Businesses across Western New York were bustling on Wednesday as shoppers headed out for their last-minute holiday needs.

From picking up forgotten groceries for holiday meals to grabbing small gifts they may have overlooked, there was plenty of holiday cheer in the air.

“It’s one of our busiest days of the [season],” said a local shop owner, reflecting the festive spirit and the surge in customer traffic as the holidays approach.

Shoppers took advantage of the final opportunities to complete their holiday preparations, making the day a vital one for many retailers in the area.
https://www.wivb.com/news/local-news/buffalo/last-minute-shoppers-wrap-up-holiday-shopping/

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Did you know John Elway was drafted by Yankees? Broncos legend reveals Baltimore factor that kept him out of baseball

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John Elway enjoyed a remarkable 16-season career in the NFL, all with the Denver Broncos. Recently, the retired quarterback shed light on an intriguing aspect of his athletic journey—football wasn’t his only professional sports option.

In the NFL Hall of Famer’s documentary, *Elway*, which is now streaming on Netflix, he revealed that he was once drafted by the New York Yankees. However, something held him back from pursuing baseball full-time.

“I wanted to play football. The quarterback gets to touch the ball every down, and you’re in control of a lot of different things,” Elway explained. “I love playing baseball, but I was an outfielder, so it wasn’t quite as exciting as the quarterback position. If I couldn’t get out of [being drafted by] Baltimore, I was going to play baseball for a year. You never know—if I’d had a good year in baseball, would I have stayed in baseball? I think ultimately my big goal was to play football.”

Sports have always played a major role in Elway’s life. He shared that his father was a football coach and also talked openly about his love for basketball, which he described as his “first love.”

“I always thought I was going to be the next Jerry West because it was my favorite sport at that point in time,” Elway recalled. Unfortunately, an injury put an end to those hoop dreams. “I hurt my knee junior year in the Christmas tournament and missed a couple of months; then my senior year in football, I tore my knee up and had surgery, so I couldn’t play baseball or basketball,” he added. “So, basketball kind of eliminated itself. But when I first started, it was actually my favorite sport.”

Despite not pursuing a career in Major League Baseball or basketball, Elway cemented his legacy in Denver. He led the Broncos to back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1998 and 1999 during his final two years in the league.

In recognition of his legendary career, John Elway was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 2004, forever securing his place among football’s greatest players.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/denver-broncos/john-elway-drafted-yankees-broncos-legend-baltimore-factor

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Heat’s Erik Spoelstra ‘encouraged’ by Tyler Herro’s injury recovery

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**Miami Heat Face Injury Challenges as Tyler Herro Sidelined Amid Slump**

*MIAMI* — The Miami Heat have been struggling lately, losing seven of their last eight games leading up to Tuesday’s contest against the Toronto Raptors. Compounding their difficulties is the absence of several key players, including star guard Tyler Herro. As the team seeks to regain its early-season form, all eyes are on Herro’s recovery progress.

### Tyler Herro’s Injury Update

Herro, along with teammates Nikola Jovic and Pelle Larsson, was ruled out for Tuesday’s home game against Toronto. This will mark Herro’s seventh absence in the last eight games as he manages a toe contusion.

It’s been a frustrating year for the All-Star guard, who also missed the first 17 games of the season recovering from ankle surgery sustained in the offseason. Herro’s absence has left a noticeable void in Miami’s lineup during a challenging stretch.

### Other Key Absences

Pelle Larsson is also sidelined, expected to miss six of Miami’s final seven games, including Tuesday’s matchup, due to an ankle sprain. Nikola Jovic remains out as well, recovering from a right elbow contusion and laceration sustained in a game against the Raptors on December 15.

### Coach Spoelstra’s Optimism

Despite the setbacks, Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra expressed encouragement regarding the trio’s progress ahead of Tuesday’s game. Speaking to ClutchPoints, Spoelstra said, “I’m very encouraged by the progress. They’re not ready to go tonight, and we don’t have a timeline, but I’m seeing what they’re doing. I came in yesterday, and I was encouraged.”

### “Not Enough” Mindset Amid Slump

With the team struggling through injuries, Herro’s presence is sorely missed, especially as Miami battles to reverse its slump. Spoelstra remains patient and understanding, emphasizing, “No, it’s part of the process. He’s working diligently as well. And as soon as he can get back to feeling like he can move the way he wants to move, he’ll be back out there.”

The Heat started the season strong with a 14-7 record, but opponents have adapted to Miami’s faster offensive style, challenging the team to adjust in turn. After a recent 135-127 loss to the New York Knicks, Spoelstra delivered a blunt assessment of the team’s effort.

> “We’re not trying to just play well and lose at the end. We’re developing a competitive, collective will. Our guys care in the locker room, but it’s got to be another level. It’s not enough. It’s got to be more. This league is a savage league. It’s survival of the competitive toughest, and that’s where we’re going to get.”

### Looking Ahead

As the Heat aim to avoid slipping below a .500 record—they entered Tuesday’s game at 15-14—the timeline for Herro, Jovic, and Larsson’s return remains uncertain. Fans and teammates alike hope the trio can come back healthy and help Miami find its winning rhythm once again.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/miami-heat/heat-news-erik-spoelstra-encouraged-by-tyler-herros-injury-recovery

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Courier Legal Notices 12-24-25

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Summons, Notice of Filing of Complaint, and Notice of Order Appointing Guardian Ad Litem

State of South Carolina, County of Pickens, Court of Common Pleas

CWC Group, LLC v. Geraldine J. Krenek, Peter Krenek, Elizabeth Jarrard, and any other heirs or devisees of Eugene Krenek, deceased, including any personal representatives, successors, assigns, spouses, creditors, and all others claiming any right, title, or interest in the property known as 106 Buckingham Court, Easley SC 29640, TMS 5110-20-92-2061;

Any adults or persons in the military service of the U.S.A. being a class designated as John Doe; any minors or persons under a legal disability being a class designated as Richard Roe; and Midland Credit Management, Inc., Civil Action No. 2025CP3901536.

To the Defendants Named Above

Re: The Property Known as 106 Buckingham Court, Easley, SC 29640

You are hereby summoned and required to answer the Complaint in this action, a copy of which is hereby served on you, and to serve a copy of your Answer to the Complaint on counsel for Plaintiff at 100 Whitsett St., Greenville SC 29601, within 30 days after service of this Complaint, exclusive of the day of service.

If you fail to answer the Complaint within the 30 days, judgment by default will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

You will also take notice that a Complaint was filed on November 24, 2025, in the Pickens County Clerk of Court’s Office seeking to quiet title to the above-described property.

To: Minors Over 14 Years of Age, and/or Minors Under 14 Years of Age and the Person With Whom the Minors Reside, and/or Persons Under Some Legal Disability:

You are further summoned and notified to apply for the appointment of a guardian ad litem within 30 days after the service of this Summons and Notice upon you. If you fail to do so, application for such appointment may be made by Plaintiff and/or ordered by the Court.

You will also take notice that on December 2, 2025, the Plaintiff filed in the Pickens County Clerk of Court’s Office an Order Appointing Kelley Y. Woody, Esq. as Guardian ad litem, with an address of PO Box 6432, Columbia, SC 29260, 803-787-9678.

This appointment becomes absolute 30 days after the last publication of this notice unless you or someone on your behalf shall, on or before the last mentioned date, procure to be appointed for you a Guardian ad litem to represent your interests in this action.

This action pertains to any interest you may claim in real property located at 106 Buckingham Court, Easley, SC 29640, TMS 5110-20-92-2061.

Rachel G. McConoughey, Esq.
100 Whitsett St., Greenville, SC 29601
Phone: 843-425-3006
Counsel for Plaintiff

Published Dates: 12/10, 12/17, 12/24

Summons and Notices: Action to Quiet Title

Case No: 2025CP3901385
State of South Carolina, County of Pickens, Court of Common Pleas

Catherine Martin vs. Any Heirs-at-Law or Devisees of Louie Martin Junior, Deceased, their heirs, Personal Representatives, Administrators, Successors and assigns, and all persons entitled to claim through them;

Any Heirs-at-Law or Devisees of Caterine Martin, Deceased, their heirs, Personal Representatives, Administrators, Successors and assigns, and all persons entitled to claim through them;

Any Heirs-at-Law or Devisees of Anthony Martin, Deceased, their heirs, Personal Representatives, Administrators, Successors and assigns, and all persons entitled to claim through them;

Any Heirs-at-Law or Devisees of Charles Edward Martin, Deceased, their heirs, Personal Representatives, Administrators, Successors and assigns, and all persons entitled to claim through them;

All unknown persons with any right, title or interest in the real estate described herein, also any persons who may be in the military service of the United States of America, being a class designated as John Doe, and any unknown minors or persons under a disability being a class designated as Richard Roe;

Also all other persons unknown, claiming any right, title, estate, interest in or lien upon the real estate described in the complaint herein.

NOTICE TO DEFENDANTS

You are hereby summoned and required to answer the Complaint in this action, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to serve a copy of your Answer to the Complaint upon the subscriber at P.O. Box 1217, Pendleton, SC 29670 within thirty (30) days after service hereof, exclusive of the day of service.

If you fail to answer the Complaint within that time, the Plaintiff(s) will apply to the court for the relief demanded in the Complaint and a judgment by default will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

Notice of Action

Notice is hereby given that an action has been commenced in the Court of Common Pleas for Pickens County, South Carolina, by the above-named Plaintiff against the above-named Defendants to have a title to real property quieted in the name of the Plaintiff.

Property Description:

All that certain piece, parcel or lot of land situate and being in the Town of Calhoun, County of Pickens, State of South Carolina containing seven-tenths (7/10) acres more or less, and having the following metes and bounds to-wit:

Beginning at an iron pin corner on the South side of Alley and running thence S. 16° 30’ E. 170 feet to an iron pin corner, thence N. 81° W. 174 feet to an iron pin corner, thence N. 21° W. 204 feet to an iron pin corner, thence along Alley S. 74° E. 202 feet to the beginning corner and bounded on the South and East by lands of Frances Towns, on the West by lands of N. N. Newton and on the North by lands of Bill Greenlee and others and more fully described by plat of Survey by S. M. Martin Reg. Land Surveyor No. 967, and dated May 13, 1953.

The above described land includes the parcel of land upon which Shell Homes, Inc. of Anderson built a Saluda type Shell home, in or about December, 1959 for Louie Junior Martin. This is the identical property conveyed unto Louie Martin Junior and Caterine Martin by deed of Shell Homes, Inc. of Anderson dated September 27, 1971 and recorded on September 29, 1971 in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Pickens County, South Carolina in Book 12-K at Page 667.

Attorney for Plaintiff:

West Cox Law Firm, LLC
Westley P. Cox (S.C. Bar #101704)
916 S. Mechanic St., Pendleton, SC 29670
Phone: (864) 824-3595

Published Dates: 12/17, 12/24, 12/31

https://www.yourpickenscounty.com/courier-legal-notices-12-24-25/

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Bears, 49ers clinch playoff spots thanks to the Lions’ loss

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It has been a very good weekend for the Bears. Their comeback from 10 points down to beat the Packers on Saturday night ensured they’d head into Week 17 in first place in the NFC North. They now know that they will be in the playoffs regardless of what happens in the final two weeks of the regular season.

Their ticket to the postseason was punched when the Lions lost to the Steelers 29-24 on Sunday. They weren’t the only team celebrating the Lions’ failure to score in the final seconds. The 49ers are also officially in the playoffs regardless of what happens against the Colts on Monday night or in their final two games.

While the 49ers don’t need a win on Monday to make the playoffs, a victory would give them a chance to end the season as the top seed in the NFC. They face the Bears and Seahawks in the final two weeks of the season, and winning out will leave them atop both the NFC West and the entire conference.

The Bears will clinch the NFC North with one more win but will need some help to wind up as the No. 1 seed.

Sunday’s loss was painful for the Lions, but it did not eliminate them from playoff contention. If they win out and the Packers lose out, the Lions will secure a spot in the playoffs as a wild card team.
https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/bears-49ers-clinch-playoff-spots-with-lions-loss

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White House Economic Advisor Kevin Hassett Predicts 2026 as Largest Tax Refund in US History

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As tax season approaches in the United States, American citizens might actually have something to look forward to. According to Kevin Hassett, the White House Director of the National Economic Council, next year’s tax filing will see taxpayers receive the “biggest refunds of all time.”

His bold prediction is based on a recent major legislative change. Due to the way new laws were passed, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) ended up holding onto more of taxpayers’ money than it was supposed to. Now, the agency needs to give it all back.

### The New Law Behind Kevin Hassett’s Record-Breaking Refund Prediction

The main reason for this historic payout is a new bill called the **One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)**, which was formally signed into law on July 4, 2025. While this legislation took effect immediately, providing substantial tax cuts right away, the timing of its passing—midway through the year—caused an issue with paperwork.

Since the OBBBA law was activated after the 2025 tax year had already started, the IRS did not have enough time to adjust its national withholding tables. As a result, most workers ended up paying their taxes at higher rates based on the old tax collection tables during the latter half of the year.

### Tax Adjustments to Expect in 2026

“There is so much good news in the new year because you are going to see the biggest tax refund season of all time,” Hassett told Fox News anchor Shannon Bream.

“The ‘big, beautiful bill’ was passed in July, and you know, the IRS did not have time to change all the forms, and so now everybody’s going to get huge tax refunds—if they were overtime workers, if they are seniors, if they had tip income.”

### Who Will Benefit Most?

One reason the economic advisor is confident in a historic tax refund in 2026 is the specific nature of the new deductions. The OBBBA law didn’t just reduce general rates; it also targeted particular groups of workers who are now eligible for significant payouts:

– **Service and Hospitality Workers:** Often earning income from tips, they benefit from the “No Tax on Tips” mandate, which gives them a deduction of up to £18,687 ($25,000) from their total earnings.

– **Hourly Employees:** The “No Tax on Overtime” law allows a major deduction on additional shifts, letting taxpayers deduct up to £9,000 ($12,500) of qualified overtime compensation.

– **Seniors:** Americans aged 65 and older can now deduct an additional £4,468 ($6,000) from their taxes. This change aims to provide older adults, many living on fixed incomes, with a quick financial boost.

### A Potential “Tariff Dividend” Cheque

On top of the regular tax refunds, the government is considering injecting more cash into the economy. Hassett and other White House officials have confirmed they are exploring the possibility of issuing a proposed £1,490 ($2,000) “tariff dividend” cheque.

Funded by extra revenue collected from trade tariffs, these cheques would be a separate payment intended to assist low- and middle-income households across the U.S.

—

With these new laws and potential additional payments, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of substantial financial relief for many Americans. Be sure to review your tax situation carefully and prepare for what could be the most rewarding tax season ever.
https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/white-house-economic-advisor-kevin-hassett-predicts-2026-largest-tax-refund-us-history-1764663

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Broncos’ Pat Bryant carted off after scary hit vs. Jaguars

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In a clash between two AFC-leading teams, the Denver Broncos fell 34-20 to the visiting Jacksonville Jaguars. As the race for the AFC’s top seed heats up, the Broncos’ loss narrows their advantage for that coveted No. 1 spot to just one game, with the Jaguars now holding the tiebreaker.

Adding to Denver’s challenges, the team sustained a significant blow when rookie wide receiver Pat Bryant exited the game. “#Broncos WR Pat Bryant was loaded directly into an ambulance and left the stadium,” reported Palmer.

Bryant has had a solid rookie season so far, recording 22 receptions for 306 yards and one touchdown. The third-round pick made an impact during Sunday’s game as well, catching five passes for 42 yards. Now, the Broncos will have to try and maintain their hold on the AFC’s top seed without him, at least for the time being.

When will Denver know more about Bryant’s condition, and how will his injury impact their preparation for the season’s final two weeks? These questions loom large as the team looks ahead.

**Broncos Look to Rebound from Tough Sunday at Mile High**

Sunday’s loss stings in multiple ways. The Broncos’ grip on the top seed is now more tenuous than ever. “All of the Broncos around Pat Bryant as he’s loaded onto the cart,” reported Stevens shortly after the hit, capturing the somber mood following the injury.

As the Broncos regroup, their focus will be on bouncing back and securing their position at the top of the AFC heading into the final stretch of the season.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/denver-broncos/broncos-pat-bryant-carted-off-after-scary-hit-vs-jaguars