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General Daily Insight for January 17, 2024
General Daily Insight for January 17, 2024
Our friends can help us heal. With the nurturing Moon embracing wounded healer Chiron in fiery Aries at 2:20 am EST, we can expect to do some inner healing on our own, even if it requires offering forgiveness that wasn’t asked for. Additionally, the Moon harmonizes with lovely Venus, adding another dose of compassion, comfort, and healing to our lives — even when Luna squares the ego-driven Sun, leading us to worry we’re making the wrong choice. We can trust our instincts.
AriesMarch 21 – April 19
You can learn to forgive yourself for what you perceive to be your past mistakes. It may be that you had made the wrong choice in the past — in that the decision made a significant impact on your life, one that could have been difficult and drawn out. Perhaps the lasting complications have left you gun-shy of picking any options, as you worry that your actions will create more problems for yourself rather than solving them. Find a way to trust yourself again.
TaurusApril 20 – May 20
You can currently forgive someone who is no longer in your life. Whether they are no longer on this plane of existence or just somewhere else in the world, this person likely is no longer around you, but the impact that they had on you may have been continually challenging. You now have the opportunity to forgive this person — not for them, as they won’t be aware of the choice that you’re making, but for you. Let go so that you can grow.
GeminiMay 21 – June 20
Old hurts can presently be soothed. You’re likely spending time around people that you may have not fully trusted before, as they could have been standoffish or cold the last time that you were around them. Today, though, they have probably changed their demeanor. This might be because they have changed or because their perception of you has shifted — either way, it’s up to you if you let them into your life. You can be cordial without becoming best friends.
CancerJune 21 – July 22
Your public persona might be getting an update. You may have been holding back from updating others, in person or online, but you’re ready to come out of the shadows and show people who you are! They’ve potentially been wondering where you’ve been and what you’re up to, and reconnecting with old friends can be very beneficial right now. Even if you feel rusty when it comes to socializing, dust off the cobwebs and set up a coffee date with someone you’ve missed.
LeoJuly 23 – August 22
The high road has your name on it, Leo. Someone may be attempting to irritate you into acting outside of your character, but you’re unlikely to take the bait. In the past, their prodding could have been enough to get a rise out of you, but you’ve matured since then! Remind yourself that you’re past being petty and engaging the people who seek negative responses. Conserve that Lion energy for the people who really deserve it: you and the ones who love you.
VirgoAugust 23 – September 22
The weight of emotions shouldn’t be discounted at this time. Even if you aren’t immediately connected to any sorrow or stress currently in your midst, the echoes of their pain can still affect you. Try to be a force for good by providing those more directly impacted with a listening ear or supporting them with food or other aid. In addition to the direct satisfaction of giving others a hand, they’ll probably be eager to return the favor by helping you in the future.
LibraSeptember 23 – October 22
Past injuries, physical or emotional, don’t have to damage your current life. Being involved in a similar situation to one that hurt you isn’t fun, but it does present you with an opportunity to alter what you’ve done in the past and break the cycle. This situation will already be unique to some degree because it’s likely taking place with different individuals, but how you choose to respond will be what makes the biggest shift. Most of all, remain firm on your boundaries.
ScorpioOctober 23 – November 21
You might be forgiving someone that you don’t really want to forgive. Even when you know it would be healthier to forget this person and move on, the hurt that they caused you might still be lingering. Centering your anger toward them may sound tempting. No matter how justified your rage is, you’ll be better off if you shift your focus to something more positive. Remaining in the hurt is like picking at a scab — you’ll just keep bleeding until you let it heal.
SagittariusNovember 22 – December 21
Laughter can be the best medicine. In particular, if you’ve been struggling with a past event that’s possibly connected to an embarrassment that you carry with you, it could be causing insecurity for you in other areas. Learning to joke about the situation, even if it was painful at the time, can allow you to get past this. You are someone who has the power to turn tears into joy! Once you put this power into action, you’ll start seeing the benefits right away.
CapricornDecember 22 – January 19
Opportunities to heal are presently all around you. You could be dealing with a fresh hurt, one that you may not want to admit to others, and so you are self-soothing through isolation. “Emotionally guarded” might be how you describe yourself, but sometimes those defenses can cut you off from valuable connections. Instead of retreating into yourself, you may want to contemplate who you find most maternal and nurturing, then go to them for comfort. They might be happy you opened up.
AquariusJanuary 20 – February 18
Caring about anything is a choice. At the moment, it might seem easier to pretend that you don’t care, when in reality, you’re hurt over the things that others say and do. They potentially believe that you’re tougher and so you can handle more rejection or harsh criticism, but these things hurt you just like they hurt everyone else, even if you try not to show it. Be honest about how you feel — you could find that they begin to respect your feelings more.
PiscesFebruary 19 – March 20
Others may mean well, but the road paved with good intentions isn’t a good path right now. Peers are potentially warning you to avoid pursuing unfamiliar endeavors or chasing risky dreams that you’re trying to achieve. This might just feel discouraging, but keep in mind that they’re likely trying to protect you in a misguided way. Try to understand where their words and emotions are coming from while releasing their fears from your mind. You don’t have to let them weigh you down.
Apple plans to remove sensor from some watch models depending on how a court rules in patent dispute
By MICHAEL LIEDTKE (AP Technology Writer)
Apple is prepared to remove the blood-oxygen sensor from its internet-connected watches if a court doesn’t give it more leeway while it pursues a bid to overturn a ruling that has blocked its use of the technology.
A potential redesign of two Apple Watch models, the Series 9 and Ultra 2, that would exclude the blood-oxygen sensor has been approved by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, according to a Monday court filing by Masimo, a Southern California company pursuing a patent claim against Apple.
The document didn’t disclose how Apple plans to remove the blood-oxygen sensor, although analysts have speculated the change could come through a software update.
Masimo won a favorable ruling from the U.S. International Trade Commission in late October that prompted Apple to temporarily halt sales of the Apple Watch models with the blood-oxygen sensor just before Christmas. But Apple then filed an appeal of the ITC ruling that resulted in a order clearing the way for the two Apple Watch models to return to stores shortly after Christmas while the appeal is under review.
The U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington is expected to decide whether it extend the stay later this month. If it does, the Series 9 and Ultra 2 can remain on sale with the blood-oxygen sensors intact.
It will probably take at least a year for the appeals process to unfold, meaning Apple will need an extended stay to continue selling the watches with the blood-oxygen sensors as part of the company’s effort to position the products as health-monitoring devices.
Apple declined to comment on the court filing disclosing its plans to remove the blood-oxygen sensor if the stay isn’t extended.
In their arguments filed so far with the appeals court, Masimo and Apple have been painting dramatically different pictures of the technology involved in the dispute.
Masimo has depicted itself as a pioneer in the making of blood-oxygen sensors on wearable devices, prompting Apple to begin luring away some of its employees as far back as 2013 — a year before the first version of the Apple Watch was unveiled.
When Apple finally introduced a watch with a blood-oxygen sensor in September 2020 during the throes of the pandemic, Masimo alleged the technology was so unreliable that it threated to taint its reputation and hurt sales of its W1 medical watch. Masimo says its pulse oximeters are used by hospitals and other professionals that treat 200 million patients annually.
Apple has denied infringing on a Masimo technology that has limited availability to consumers. Masimo’s W1 watch wasn’t even available on the market when the dispute started in 2021 and the device still has negligible sales, according to Apple. In contrast, Apple accounts for roughly one-third of smartwatch shipments — a business that generates an estimated $18 billion in annual sales for the Cupertino, California, company. That represents about 5% of Apple’s annual revenue.
‘We need that tunnel open:’ Fort Lauderdale mayor says whole city tired of all the detours
The U.S. 1 tunnel, a popular route for commuters traveling through downtown Fort Lauderdale, has been ground zero for gridlock for 28 months and counting.
Drivers have endured detour after detour for more than two years, ever since construction began on a $28.4 million upgrade in September 2021.
Several times, the Henry E. Kinney Tunnel has closed in both directions, as it did on Tuesday at 7 a.m. This time, the tunnel will remain closed for five days, reopening on Saturday at 5 p.m. as long as the work crews stay on schedule installing new air handlers.
This latest closure should be the last one related to the construction upgrade, says Billy Canedo, spokesman for the Florida Department of Transportation.
The work was expected to take two years but is taking longer than planned due to delays caused by rainstorms and supply shortages, Canedo said.
When will the job be done once and for all?
“We’re looking at late spring,” Canedo said. “It’s hard to to predict. That’s assuming no weather delays or unforeseen circumstances.”
State transportation officials are planning no ribbon cutting, but admit it will be a day of celebration when the work is finally done.
“I think everyone will be relieved,” Canedo said. “It’s obviously very inconvenient to have this sort of disruption.”
The work on the tunnel has taken far too long, says Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis.
“We need that tunnel open,” he told the South Florida Sun Sentinel on Tuesday. “The people of this city are losing their patience. Ask anyone who lives in Rio Vista. Anyone who is racing to get to the airport. It was an unnecessary interruption with the flow of city life. It was unnecessary for them to take this long. We could have built the tunnel from scratch in that amount of time.”
Complaints have been flowing in ever since the work began to both City Hall and DOT’s project team.
“We get complaints every single day,” Trantalis said. “The community is completely frustrated by the lethargic progress on the tunnel restoration. We do not see an army of workers at the site. You see occasional workers who from time to time change some aspect of that tunnel.”
Carline Jean / South Florida Sun SentinelCommuters drive through the Henry E. Kinney Tunnel in Fort Lauderdale on March 27, 2023. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)David McCarthy is one of those residents who has lost patience.
A longtime resident of Rio Vista, McCarthy has doubts the project will be done by May, as the state predicts.
“The Golden Gate Bridge took only four years to complete,” he said. “At (nearly) three years and counting, the Kinney Tunnel (project) will likely end up taking longer. I passed through at 8 and 8:30 (Tuesday) morning and there was no one in sight.”
Bob Casullo says he’s content to just stay in his condo on the beach.
“We avoid going anywhere,” he said. “It’s not like you head to the mall at 1 p.m. You just don’t do it. You stay home. It doesn’t matter what direction you go. You can’t get anywhere.”
Canedo says state officials understand the need to vent.
“We’re trying to get this work done as soon as possible,” he said.
State DOT workers are forced to take the same detours, just like everyone else, Canedo added.
“I have to take the detours too,” he said. “I don’t have a special pass.”
During this week’s closure of the tunnel, commuters moving downtown can expect to see take detour signs as they approach the tunnel.
Northbound traffic will be detoured via Southeast Seventh Street, Southeast Third Avenue and Broward Boulevard.
Southbound traffic will be detoured via Broward Boulevard, Southeast Third Avenue and Davie Boulevard.
Here’s what we’re getting for $28.4 million:
Ventilation fans were replaced to improve air flow; new LED tunnel lighting; delaminated tiles were removed; electrical equipment was upgraded; stormwater pumps were replaced; bicycle-friendly drainage grates were installed; fire lines and equipment were upgraded; emergency signing and lighting were upgraded; pavement was resurfaced.
In addition, crews installed an Intelligent Transportation System that will allow DOT to monitor the tunnel from a remote location.
The upgrades include dynamic message signs; CCTV cameras, including in the tunnel; warning gates and signals at each tunnel entrance; vehicle sensors to warn vehicles that are too high to enter; and upgrades to signalized intersections with Adaptive Traffic Signal Control for enhanced mobility along the U.S. 1.
The new pump systems will help keep the tunnel from flooding, but they likely won’t be able to stop it altogether during intense storms.
“Water is going to come in,” Canedo said. “The pumps are there to keep the tunnel dry. But I can’t tell you it’s never going to flood.”
When the tunnel does flood, the state will now have special gates to block the entrance on both sides to keep cars from entering. It’s all part of the $28.4 million upgrade to make the tunnel safer and better, state officials say.
Susannah Bryan can be reached at sbryan@sunsentinel.com. Follow me on X @Susannah_Bryan
These wireless charging pads will keep your phone charged all night long
Which wireless chargers are best?
As the world turns ever closer to a completely wireless world, the rise of wireless chargers continues with it. However, wireless chargers are far from simple devices. There are several things to consider when shopping for one. Considerations include how fast it can charge a device and how many devices it can charge at once. Smaller issues like how it looks and whether it holds up your phone or not can break ties if you’re undecided.
Multi-device chargingBasic wireless chargers can only handle one device at a time, be it your phone, tablet or smartwatch. Better chargers can handle two or three devices, but you need to consider how large the charger and your devices are to see if you can even fit what you want to fit.
Additionally, charging multiple devices at once can drop the charging speed. This doesn’t matter if you’re charging overnight, but if you’re trying to speed charge in the middle of the day, you might want to go one at a time anyway.
Fast chargingThere are a few charging speeds in wireless chargers. The baseline is 5-watt charging. Then there’s the iPhone fast charging, which includes 7.5-watt and 10-watt chargers for Samsung. Finally, some chargers have up to 20 watts of power, though few devices can take advantage of that yet.
Chargers that support 7.5-watt charging and up are known as fast chargers. These can charge a device to full, from dead, in as little as one to one-and-a-half hours. However, your device must be compatible with fast charging to get the benefits. It’ll still charge if it isn’t compatible, just slowly. Devices or chargers that only have 5 watts can take two or more hours to charge from dead.
Wireless charger form factorThere are two form factors for wireless chargers: flat and stand.
Case penetrationDespite smartphones constantly becoming more and more durable, it’s still risky not to protect them with a case. If you do use a case, you need a wireless charger that can support charging through cases so you don’t have to take the case off every time, ruining the ease that wireless chargers are supposed to offer.
However, even the best chargers can only go through so much material. The usual limit on charging through cases is 5 millimeters.
DesignThe look of a wireless charger usually doesn’t vary much from a small circular pad in either black or white. But that only makes the trend breakers stand out even more. For example, there are charging stations that are wide and tall or wide, flat, rectangular chargers. There are also chargers in various bright colors, such as blues, pinks and even purples. Some chargers even give you the option of having a matte or glossy, mirror-like face.
CostBasic wireless chargers typically cost $10-$20. These typically charge one device at a time and may have fast charging. Better chargers with all the bells and whistles can cost up to $40.
Best wireless chargersAnker is among the more popular third-party wireless chargers thanks to its dependability and great quality. This one supports up to 10-watt charging and can charge through cases up to 5 millimeters thick.
[ Anylincon Wireless Charger ]
This charging station can charge a phone, a watch and a case of wireless earbuds at once, and quickly. For example, it can charge an iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods from dead to full in two to three hours. It comes in various colors, such as pink and black.
Apple wireless chargers usually have a special feature known as MagSafe. MagSafe means that your iPhone will be magnetically snapped to the charger to ensure it’s in an optimal charging position.
This two-pack of chargers is perfect for setting up charging points around the home, such as one by the couch and another by your bed. They have up to 15-watt charging.
This charger has a blistering 20 watts of power to charge the handful of devices supported by it shockingly fast. It comes in three styles and can charge through cases 6 millimeters thick or less.
This charger is prepped for the future as it has support for 15-watt charging. Not many devices can utilize it yet, but once they can, you’ll be ready. It can charge in landscape or portrait orientations.
This charger supports 5-, 7.5- and 10-watt charging, depending on the specifications of the device placed on it. It can also charge through thin cases and case overheat protection.
This charger can handle up to three devices at once and is compatible with most devices despite being chiefly made for Samsung devices. However, the watch charging pad is only compatible with Samsung watches.
This charger has LED indicators that tell you if it’s ready to charge, charging or finished charging a device. It has over-charge and overheat protection and comes in three sizes and 19 styles.
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Remove hair inexpensively for the long haul with the best epilators
How to use an epilator
An epilator is one of many hair removal methods that provides a long-lasting, smooth finish. It is inexpensive in the long term and is designed for home use. With an epilator, you no longer have to rely on waxing or shaving to remove hair from your body.
What is epilation?Epilation is a catch-all term that describes any process that removes body hair from its roots. Popular epilation techniques include:
These techniques often require salon appointments, which can be expensive. Epilators are an alternative for people looking to save time and money.
How does an epilator work?Epilators are electric tweezers that look like electric shavers. Instead of using razors, however, epilators use a cluster of rotating tweezer blades. These blades grab and pull any hair the epilator rolls over, directly from the root.
Epilators can be used on any type of body hair you’d rather not have. They come in various shapes and sizes and can be corded for dry skin or battery-powered for wet or dry skin use. They typically cost $40-$150. This can work out as a bargain, considering how much you could pay for repeated waxing sessions.
Are epilators painful to use?An epilator may not be for you if you have a low pain threshold. However, users often report that pain and discomfort subside after multiple uses. This is because hair follicles weaken after repeated plucking.
Allowing excessive regrowth will increase hair strength, causing pain to return. So if you start using an epilator, don’t quit in a hurry.
How to use an epilatorLack of proper technique can exacerbate pain and limit your epilator’s effectiveness. To navigate the process as painlessly as possible, you need to follow a few simple steps:
What you need to buy to use an epilator[ Braun Epilator Silk-epil 3 ]
This cost-effective epilator comes with a massage roller that can desensitize skin before use. The interchangeable heads also allow you to shave or trim, and results can last up to four weeks.
Philips Satinelle Essential Compact Epilator
This travel-sized epilator is ideal for taking your hair removal method with you wherever you go. The epilator head is washable so you can keep it clean. It also comes with an attachment for using it on sensitive areas of the skin to reduce pain.
[ Braun Epilator Silk-epil 9 ]
This epilator creates long-lasting results and can adapt to every contour on the body for efficient epilation. It’s also waterproof, so you can perform wet epilation in the shower or bath.
[ Pumice Valley Pumice Stone ]
This pumice stone is great for rejuvenating, cleansing and removing dead skin anywhere on the body to prevent ingrown hairs after epilation. The natural black lava rock offers users a massaging effect that can leave skin as soft as a baby’s.
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Lauren Farrell writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
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Vivek Ramaswamy suspends his 2024 Republican presidential bid and endorses rival Donald Trump
By BILL BARROW (Associated Press)
Biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy suspended his bid for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination on Monday and endorsedww former President Donald Trump after a disappointing finish in Iowa’s leadoff caucuses.
Ramaswamy, a 38-year-old political novice who sought to replicate Trump’s rise as a bombastic, wealthy outsider, said, “As of this moment we are going to suspend this presidential campaign. There’s no path for me to be the next president absent things that we don’t want to see happen in this country.”
During the campaign, he needled his opponents but praised Trump as “the best president of the 21st century.” He argued, though, that Republicans should opt for “fresh legs” and “take our America First agenda to the next level.”
The approach, including his call for “revolution,” vaulted Ramaswamy into the mix of candidates vying to overtake Trump — or at least become a viable alternative. His decision to drop out, though, becomes the latest confirmation that the former president, even at 77 years old and under multiple criminal indictments, still dominates Republican politics and remains the overwhelming favorite to win the GOP nomination for the third consecutive time.
Ramaswamy’s failure also affirms how difficult it is for any Republican other than Trump to push the bounds of party orthodoxy, as the first-time candidate found little political reward for positions such as his opposition to aid for Israel and Ukraine.
The son of Indian immigrants, Ramaswamy entered politics at the highest level after making hundreds of millions of dollars at the intersection of hedge funds and pharmaceutical research, a career he charted and built while graduating from Harvard University and then Yale Law School. He brought to his campaign the same brash approach he used to coax money from investors even when the drugs he touted never made it to the market.
Why AP called Iowa for Trump: Race call explained
By ROBERT YOON (Associated Press)
WASHINGTON (AP) — Former President Donald Trump scored the first victory of the 2024 presidential primary season Monday with a sweeping and broad-based win in the Iowa Republican caucuses. The Associated Press declared the former president the winner based on an analysis of initial returns as well as results of AP VoteCast, a survey of voters who planned to caucus on Monday night. Both showed Trump with an insurmountable lead.
Initial results from eight counties showed Trump with far more than half of the total votes counted as of 8:31 pm. ET, significantly ahead of the rest of the field. These counties included rural areas that are demographically and politically similar to the large number of counties that had yet to report.
The Associated Press has also determined that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis will finish in a distant second, ahead of former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley. With an estimated 10% of ballots remaining to be counted, DeSantis led Haley by approximately 2,300 votes or about 2 percentage points. With votes reported in all but one of Iowa’s 99 counties, Haley isn’t doing well enough anywhere to catch DeSantis, based on the number of outstanding votes.
In traditional primaries, AP does not declare a winner in any race before the last polls are scheduled to close in the contest. It’s sometimes possible to declare a winner in those races immediately after polls close before any vote results are released. AP does so only when its VoteCast survey of voters and other evidence, including the history of a state’s elections, details about ballots cast before Election Day and pre-election polling, provide overwhelming evidence of who has won.
The Iowa caucuses are different. There are no “polls” and no fixed time when all the voting ends. Instead, there is an 8 p.m. ET deadline for caucus voters to arrive at their location, at which point deliberations among caucusgoers begin behind closed doors. Some caucus sites might complete their business in a few minutes, while others can take some time to determine the outcome.
For that reason, AP followed its past practice and did not make a “poll close” declaration of the winner on Monday night. Instead, AP reviewed returns from caucus sites across Iowa and declared Trump the winner only after those results, along with VoteCast and other evidence, made it unquestionably clear he had won.
This is the same approach AP has followed in declaring winners in past Iowa caucuses. In 2020, when Trump sought reelection, AP declared the former president the caucus winner at 8:25 p.m. ET. Declarations have taken longer in more closely contested races. In 2016, AP was not able to name Texas Sen. Ted Cruz the winner over Trump until 10:26 p.m. ET.
AP VoteCast is a comprehensive survey of both voters and nonvoters that provides a detailed snapshot of the electorate and helps explain who voted, what issues they care about, how they feel about the candidates and why they voted the way they did.
AP VoteCast found Trump had sizable leads among both men and women, as well as every age group and geographic region throughout the state. The survey found that Trump was favored by about 6 in 10 white evangelical caucusgoers. Polls showed that they were a relatively weak group of backers for Trump in Iowa in 2016.
Trump is significantly outperforming his second-place 2016 caucus finish, when he received 24% of the vote, compared with 28% for Cruz. That year, Trump placed third in some of the state’s most populous counties, including Dallas, Johnson, Polk, Scott and Story, all of which were carried by Florida Sen. Marco Rubio. This year, he was either leading or running much more competitively in those counties.
Emmy Awards 2024: Elton John wins historic EGOT
Elton John, with an Emmy for outstanding variety special for his Dodger Stadium farewell show, earned EGOT status as one of a very few people to have won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony.
“Elton John Live: Farewell from Dodger Stadium” aired on Disney+ as he played his final North American concert ever – at least that’s what he says – on Nov. 20, 2022.
David Furnish (C) and winners of Outstanding Variety Special (Live) for “Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium” pose in the press room during the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on January 15, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)John, who was not at the Emmys on Sunday, becomes the 19th person to earn a competitive EGOT – one in which none of the awards were honorary.
John earlier won six Grammys including a lifetime achievement award. He’s won two Oscars for best original song for his work on “The Lion King” and “Rocketman.” And his Tony Award came with the score for “Aida.”
Winderman’s view: Heat summon energy when needed most in Brooklyn
NEW YORK – Observations and other notes of interest from Monday night’s 96-95 overtime victory over the Brooklyn Nets:
– This was a night begging for energy.
– It also was a reminder of that exact energy Jaime Jaquez Jr. has delivered.
– With the energy from the Heat rookie clearly missing, as he sat out his first game of the season.
– With Jaquez back in Miami nursing a groin injury, the Heat searched everywhere and anywhere for vitality.
– Including even turning to Thomas Bryant seemingly out of desperation.
– Eventually, Tyler Herro instilled some needed bounce.
– Badly needed bounce.
– And then Caleb Martin.
– And, finally, Jimmy Butler.
– All in the nick of time.
– Otherwise, this largely was flat and unfocused.
– It happens in the NBA.
– Especially on the second night of back-to-back sets.
– The good teams find a way.
– Especially against the bad teams.
– With the Heat doing just that.
– Perhaps it was more than injuries that had Nikola Jovic in the starting lineup, because there he was again Monday night, opening alongside core starters Bam Adebayo, Butler, Herro and Kyle Lowry.
– Earlier in the season, it appeared Haywood Highsmith was trending toward that starting role with the other four.
– Heat coach Erik Spoesltra stressed pregame that there couldn’t be a move into a comfort zone just because Butler was back.
– “We’re trying to build our habits, build consistency to our identity regardless of who’s in, who’s out,” he emphasized. “We know what we’re trying to get accomplished. And guys being in and out should not affect that.”
– Spolestra added, “It’s a talent to find ways to win, and we’re making progress with that.”
– The Nets opened with Spencer Dinwiddie, Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Dorian Finney-Smith and Nic Claxton.
– Highsmith played as the Heat’s first reserve, entering for Adebyo, which moved Jovic to center.
– Josh Richardson and Duncan Robinson then followed together.
– With Martin making it nine deep.
– And then, with the Heat unable to find offense, Thomas Bryant even got a chance in the second period.
– That left only Cole Swider and Orlando Robinson out of the mix.
– Spoelstra went in with a specific concern about the Nets.
– “When they’re at their best,” he said, “they’re one of the better attacking teams in the league.”
– Jacque Vaughn was the latest opposing coach asked about Spoelstra’s eight-year, $120 million extension that was announced last week.
– “It’s great for coaches in this league,” Vaughn said, also noting the offseason deals signed by Gregg Popovich with the San Antonio Spurs and Monty Williams with the Detroit Pistons. “You just think of the last three contracts, when there was Monty, Pop, Spo. It’s definitely setting a precedent of coaching in this league.”
– Vaughn added, “And I think there’s a continuity standpoint of being rewarded, also. Pop and Spo have done it at the highest level with the same organization, so it speaks to continuity.”
– As for Spoelstra, Vauggn said, “He deserves it. He’s a heck of a coach. I love watching him. He’s an unbelievable human being always to me.”
– As for the Heat, Vaughn said, “It’s always tough playing these guys. It’s a mental battle, because you know it’s going to be an extremely physical game. And that starts with Butler and that starts with Adebayo.”
– The game marked the seventh consecutive year the Heat played on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the 18th time overall.
Heat almost go from bad to worse before holding off Nets 96-95 in OT in Butler’s return
NEW YORK — Erik Spoelstra often talks about the Miami Heat having to win in the mud. Monday night at Barclays Center, the Heat had to win one in the manure.
After scoring only 31 first-half points and after opening 0 for 13 on 3-pointers, the Heat somehow pushed through the stench for a 96-95 overtime victory over the Brooklyn Nets, after as unsightly a first 24 minutes as could be imagined.
“This was cement,” Spoelstra quipped, breaking from his mud mentions. “You see that first half? That was as ugly as it could get.”
But with Jimmy Butler making his return, the Heat found a way to third third consecutive victory, after losing four of their previous six.
Butler closed with 31 points, including the winning free throws on a night he shot 15 of 16 from the line. Tyler Herro helped the Heat survive with a pair of overtime 3-pointers, finishing with 29 points.
“That first half wasn’t pretty at all,” Herro said.
Heat center Bam Adebayo added an 11-point, 20-rebound double-double on a night there were ample rebounds, with the Heat shooting .379 from the field and the Nets .340.
“We just came in at halftime and said we’ve got to get out of the mud,” Adebayo said.
The Heat’s two-game trip concludes Wednesday against the Toronto Raptors, before the Heat return to Kaseya Center to retire Udonis Haslem No. 14 at halftime of Friday night’s game against the Atlanta Hawks.
Five Degrees of Heat from Monday night’s game:
1. Closing time: At 0 for 7 on 3-pointers in the first period, the Heat trailed 22-16 going into the second. And that was the Heat’s highest-scoring quarter of the first half, down 45-31 at halftime, when they were 11 of 42 from the field and 0 for 12 on 3-pointers.
The Heat’s 31 first-half points tied the NBA season low that Charlotte had against them on Sunday night at Kaseya Center.
From what had been a 16-point deficit, the Heat then briefly took the lead in the third quarter before going into the fourth down 69-68.
Eventually, Herro converted a driving floater with 24 seconds left in regulation to play for an 87-86 Heat lead.
A missed Cam Thomas 3-point attempt followed, with Adebayo fouled on the rebound, sent to the line with 5.9 seconds left in regulation, his first trip to the line of the night. He was well off to the left on the first free throw before making the second for an 88-86 Heat lead.
Off a Brooklyn timeout, the Nets got Miles Bridges to the foul line with 4.4 seconds to play in regulation on a foul on Herro the Heat unsuccessfully challenged. Bridges made both foul shots to tie it 88-88.
Off the Heat’s final timeout of regulation, Butler was off with a 19-foot jumper, with the game sent to overtime.
The Nets then jumped to 93-88 lead at the start of overtime, the Heat tired legs showing on the second night of the back-to-back set.
But a Herro 3-pointer in transition with 1:29 to play got the Heat within 93-91 and another Herro 3-pointer moving the Heat within 95-94 with 49 seconds to play.
An offensive goaltending call on the Nets then put the Heat back in possession down one with 25.7 seconds to play.
That’s when Butler worked his way to the foul line with 11.8 seconds left, making both for a 96-95 Heat lead.
The Nets then played without a timeout, with Bridges off from 10 feet with 1.1 seconds to play, the clock then expiring.
“This is what I wanted to see,” Spoelstra said, “if we could win games with different solutions.”
2. Butler back: Butler’s return came after missing the previous seven games with what the Heat listed as a MP joint sprain of a toe on his right foot. Butler had last played on Dec. 30 in Utah.
Prior to that loss to the Jazz, which he exited in the third quarter, Butler had missed four games with a strained left calf, making Monday just his second appearance since Dec. 18.
Butler had 10 of the Heat’s 31 first-half points and then added 14 in the third period, a period when he was cited for a flopping violation.
“I got my rhythm,” Butler said. “I had to be ready.”
Butler wound up being called upon to play 40:18.
“You don’t ever forget about his greatness,” Spoelstra said. “Obviously I played him more minutes than we all planned on, but that’s what was necessary tonight.
“Jimmy was fantastic.”
3. Herro ball: Herro helped keep the Heat afloat while the offense otherwise was sideways, helping spark the Heat’s comeback with 12 third-quarter points.
Herro was particularly effective with his floater game and also helped clean up some of the misses, with nine rebounds through three quarters.
Herro was particularly effective with his floaters, converting them from a variety of angles.
“Just trying to be aggressive,” he said, after closing 11 of 22 from the field.
4. Nine lives: Monday marked only the ninth time this season that Butler, Adebayo and Herro were available for the same game, and only the seventh time all three were available for the finish, with Herro leaving one of those previous eight games with an ankle sprain and Butler one with his toe injury.
“I like the idea of us being on the floor at the same time,” Butler said.
That had those three in the starting lineup alongside Kyle Lowry and Nikola Jovic, giving the Heat their 22nd lineup in their 40th game.
It was the seventh consecutive start for Jovic.
Lowry was back for a second consecutive game after missing two with a sprained left hand. He had been listed as questionable with that injury earlier in the day.
“We need time together,” Herro said of the core group.
5. No shot: The Heat not only opened 0 for 13 on 3-pointers, but the Heat bench opened 0 for 11 from the field before Caleb Martin scored on a driving layup off a Butler pass with 4:50 left in the second period.
It reached the point where Spoelstra inserted seldom-used center Thomas Bryant in the second period in an attempt to shake things up. Bryant had not played in the previous four games and 9 of the previous 11. He was scoreless in his five second-period minutes.
The Heat’s 3-point drought ended at 0 of 13 when Herro converted a 3-pointer with 10:12 to play in the third and then made another on the next Heat possession, as well.
Trump leads GOP rightward march and other takeaways from the Iowa caucuses
By Nicholas Riccardi and Brian Slodysko, Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump’s iron grip on the Republican Party has been clear since the day he announced he would make another run for the White House 14 months ago. It can be seen in the party’s ideological shift even further to the right on cultural issues and, especially, on immigration policy.
Iowa Republicans were a clear reflection of that on Monday night, delivering the former president an emphatic victory. They channeled his anger, and his view that basically everything President Joe Biden has done has been a “disaster.” About 9 in 10 voters said they want upheaval or substantial change in how the government operates, according to AP Vote Cast, a survey of more than 1,500 voters who said they planned to take part in the caucuses.
As clear-cut as his win was, though, Iowa has not played the role of kingmaker in the Republican nominating process. New Hampshire’s voters don’t get their cues from Iowa.
Here are some key takeaways:
AN INCUMBENT CAMPAIGNThis was the least suspenseful Iowa caucus in modern memory because Trump has essentially been running as an incumbent president. He’s convinced many Republicans he didn’t really lose the 2020 election to Biden, repeatedly making false claims, and has dominated the race the way someone still in office does.
He traveled sparingly to the state, holding a modest number of rallies. He spurned candidate debates. He chose to appear at court hearings as a defendant in his legal cases in New York and Washington rather than speak to Iowa voters in the final days before the voting.
The former president, who remains the party’s dominant favorite, clearly wants to move on to the general election as quickly as possible. But Iowa winnows the field more than it determines the winner.
TWISTS AND TURNS AHEADInevitable can be a dangerous word, especially in New Hampshire, which holds its primary in eight days.
New Hampshire has famously delivered upsets in both parties. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley quipped that New Hampshire “corrects” Iowa. Bush felt New Hampshire’s sting in 2000 when Senator John McCain defeated him. So did former vice president Walter Mondale when Senator Gary Hart of Colorado scored an upset in the Democratic race in 1984.
With its more moderate, educated electorate, New Hampshire presents Trump’s rivals with possibly their best opportunity to slow his march. Haley is hoping for a win there or at least a very strong showing, and after that comes a weird political lull — with the next major competitive race in South Carolina on Feb. 24.
But plenty can happen during that time. The U.S. Supreme Court on Feb. 8 is scheduled to hear arguments in a case challenging whether a constitutional clause banning those who “engaged in insurrection” from holding office applies to Trump. The high court may also weigh in on whether presidential immunity protects Trump from federal charges for trying to overturn his 2020 election loss.
The criminal trial in that case is scheduled to start on March 5 — Super Tuesday — when 14 states vote in the presidential nominating process. Trump’s strength among Republican voters is beyond dispute, but the road is long and could be bumpy.
IT’S NOT THE ECONOMYIowans had something on their minds, but it wasn’t jobs, taxes or business regulations.
About 4 in 10 caucus-goers said immigration was their top issue, compared to 1 in 3 picking the economy, according to VoteCast. Other priorities like foreign policy, energy and abortion ranked even lower.
Indeed, about two-thirds of caucus-goers said they felt their finances were holding steady or improving. But the voters still want major changes — 3 in 10 want a total upheaval of how the federal government runs while another 6 in 10 want substantial changes. Additionally, Trump faces multiple criminal charges, 6 in 10 caucus-goers don’t trust the U.S. legal system.
It adds up to a portrait of a slice of the electorate eager to challenge core democratic institutions in the U.S.
General Daily Insight for January 16, 2024
General Daily Insight for January 16, 2024
The heat is on! Due to delicate Luna’s disagreement with expressive Mercury, it becomes difficult to express ourselves in a way that isn’t aggressive, irritable, or dramatic. We may feel like we have to defend our points of view, which is okay — as long as we don’t let our emotions incite self-defeat through impulsive actions. The fire keeps growing as the Moon squares passionate Mars at 3:14 pm, so keeping cool will be difficult to do. Try to keep your bonfire under control.
AriesMarch 21 – April 19
The fire within might be hard to keep down. You may feel strong frustration throughout the day, since your ruler, Mars, is facing off with the Moon and bringing out your inner flames. Independence is probably already on your mind, and on top of that, the directions that an authority figure gives you might clash with what you think is right. You shouldn’t have to go against your morals — just do your best to remain level-headed as you blaze your own path.
TaurusApril 20 – May 20
You might feel like a pressure cooker. The customer isn’t always right, but sometimes you still must smile and nod even as a client, boss, or peer majorly stresses you out. Unfortunately, it may be hard to hide the expressions on your face. It’s possible that your views or preferences simply don’t align well — or they might be purposefully trying to make you angry. Don’t give them the satisfaction! You can communicate politely, then release your anger in a healthy way later on.
GeminiMay 21 – June 20
A group that you’re in might be pushing your buttons. It can be difficult to be who you are in a gathering of others who agree with each other — but not with you. You may feel like you’re being ganged up on at times. Make an effort to remember that even if they’re driving you up the wall, they could simply be ignorant as to what you’re going through. They might even learn something from you if you’re willing to go deep in conversation.
CancerJune 21 – July 22
Your responsibilities to others could be tricky at present. Keeping your word is probably very important to you, so you could easily end up with difficult or stressful responsibilities or be drawn into a spiral of nit-picking or shifting requirements from the person that you promised to be responsible for. Projects aren’t likely to be completed quickly, that’s for sure. Let the frustration go — it won’t help you to reach the finish line, and you want to get there as soon as possible.
LeoJuly 23 – August 22
Impulsivity can speedily land you in hot water! This is specifically connected to throwing away things that you still need, going traveling without scheduling time off from your responsibilities, or moving on from a connection that you’re not ready to leave behind. While your instinct might be to run away, choosing to act first and think later, this is unlikely to be the route to success. Avoid future regrets by pondering what life would be like when what you’re leaving behind is really gone.
VirgoAugust 23 – September 22
Increased sensitivity could negatively impact your day. You’ll potentially You might react more strongly to jokesters trying to get a laugh, or you may see others as attacking you when they’re really not. You’re allowed to let others know that you’re feeling extra vulnerable and aren’t ready to be on that level with them, as this should produce much better results than you’d achieve by blowing up and getting angry when pushed too far. Look for a calm and collected way to say no.
LibraSeptember 23 – October 22
You might feel caught in the middle. This may be a back and forth between two people that are close to you. Even if you can see the problem between them, you may not be able to make them understand the issues you notice. If they ask you for your advice, of course, provide it, but trying to get in the middle of their fight will probably only put a target on yourself and still not solve the problem. It’s okay to step back.
ScorpioOctober 23 – November 21
What you’re feeling can spur you to say things that you don’t mean. Just because you’re feeling stressed from a busy routine, low energy levels, or those who would disrespect you, doesn’t mean that you should then take these feelings out on the people who are there to support you. It’s okay to let out your feelings regarding their actual sources — but if you start projecting or even treating your supporters with the same disrespect, you’ll start losing sight of what matters.
SagittariusNovember 22 – December 21
The darkest places can be lit by your inner fire. This blaze of passion may not be stable, since you could have to give up some creature comforts or solid situations to pursue your less tangible goals, but the rewards are likely worth the risk. Think about your current position — are you willing to move great distances to prove your naysayers wrong or purge any clutter in your home to improve its energy? Embrace the uncertainty, but think before you act.
CapricornDecember 22 – January 19
Tradition might seem to be working against you. While you may appreciate regulations in some areas of life, they’re possibly beginning to feel outdated in others. You’re ready to move forward in a way that old rules would forbid. This can ruffle the feathers of those who want to preserve the past — they could push back against you with more vehemence than you’d expected. Instead of caving, try to explain your motivations, then simply do what feels right to you.
AquariusJanuary 20 – February 18
You could feel lost today. Seemingly dependable pals might vanish in your hour of need, leaving you wondering where you’re supposed to turn to. Exhaustion is valid, as having to navigate certain unfamiliar situations alone can be immensely stressful. Take heed and remind your weary soul that you can rely on yourself in a way that others only dream of doing. You’re the one who needs to be the star and director of your own adventure, so make it a great one!
PiscesFebruary 19 – March 20
Alienating others might sound like a good idea — but that’s your insecurities talking! You probably believe that you’re protecting yourself, but the people who genuinely care about you could feel completely shut out if you don’t explain what you’re doing by isolating yourself or avoiding risky situations. While you shouldn’t have to do anything that makes you uncomfortable, never stepping outside of your comfort zone may actually lead to even more uncomfortable situations in the future. Don’t shut out everything and everyone.
Chris Perkins: Here’s why Chiefs’ Chris Jones was laughing in Dolphins’ locker room after playoff game
MIAMI GARDENS — It was one of the most bizarre scenes I’ve ever seen in a losing playoff locker room.
For a few brief minutes Saturday night, not long, perhaps three or four minutes, one small corner of the Miami Dolphins’ locker room had such a raucous buzz you’d have thought they’d just won their first playoff game in 23 years.
It turns out Dolphins linebacker Justin Houston, who had been with the team for a mere four days, was hosting visitors — longtime friends Chris Jones, the Kansas City All Pro defensive tackle who just helped the Chiefs smoke the Dolphins and end their Super Bowl hopes, and Tamba Hali, the former Chiefs defensive end who was a six-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time All Pro.
I’ve never seen anything like it.
It made me wonder whether Dolphins players thought this was disrespectful or inappropriate.
Some did, some didn’t.
“I would have told them to get the (expletive) out,” one offensive player told me Monday as the Dolphins were cleaning out their lockers.
“That would have had me hot.”
One veteran defensive player who was in the locker room while Jones and Hali were there was surprised at their presence.
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“I’ve never seen anything like that,” he said.
But he said he understood.
“It was just respect,” he said.
I asked Houston about the situation on Monday, the Dolphins’ locker room cleanout day.
Houston said he didn’t think it was a big deal to have opposing players (technically, one opposing player and one retired player from the opposing team) in the locker room.
Houston, Jones and Hali played together for the Chiefs.
Houston said Jones and Hali were just showing him love.
“When it’s over, it’s over,” Houston said of the season. “You still show love.”
A couple of other Dolphins players said the same thing, including defensive tackle Raekwon Davis.
Davis has known Jones for a long time. They’re homeboys.
Jones is from Houston, Miss., and Davis is from Meridian, Miss.
Davis said Jones was showing respect for Houston.
Davis said he wouldn’t tolerate disrespect in the Dolphins’ locker room.
I get that.
But I was in shock seeing visitors, including a player from the winning team, in the Miami locker room.
The Dolphins just had their dreams crushed, 27-6, at Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium in sub-zero temperatures.
And a player from the winning team was in the losing locker room.
Again, it was only a few minutes, but they were laughing and having a joyous reunion.
Everywhere else in the locker room, there was devastation.
This was my 15th NFL season, and my fifth season being inside a Dolphins locker room after a playoff loss (2000, 2001, 2016, 2022, 2023).
This was my first time seeing an opposing (and winning) player in the losing locker room.
This was my first time seeing laughter in a locker room after a playoff loss. In any sport.
In my 10 seasons covering the NBA, I’d never seen such a thing after a playoff loss.
Locker rooms are sacred ground.
Losing playoff locker rooms are usually restricted to those who were part of the fight.
This was strange.
I don’t want to overstate the situation.
It was only a brief time, possibly three or four minutes of the perhaps 20 minutes I was in the locker room.
But, wow.
I didn’t want to write about this Sunday because I wasn’t sure how Dolphins defensive players felt.
And quite honestly, even on Sunday, the day after, I still couldn’t believe what I’d witnessed.
I needed to double and triple check the facts.
I didn’t recognize Jones or Hali, so I asked someone who they were.
When I was told, I was in disbelief.
In most NFL visiting locker rooms, offense and defense are in the same room.
In Kansas City, offense and defense are practically separated so many offensive players didn’t even know Jones and Hali were in the locker room.
In fact, another defensive player told me he wasn’t even aware Jones and Hali came into the locker room. He’d left the locker room early to visit family.
He, too, expressed surprise that an opposing player would come into the Dolphins’ locker room after a playoff loss.
In a month of unexpected events for the Dolphins (injuries, back-to-back-to-back losses, extreme weather) seeing a winning Kansas City player in a losing Miami locker room fits right in with everything else.
Overwhelmed by all the shapewear options? Here are the best shapewear items for every occasion
Feel confident in your favorite outfits with these top-rated shapewear pieces
Modern shapewear has come a long way from the super-tight girdles of the past. These days, you can find shapewear in a wide array of styles that flatter all body shapes and sizes. Best of all, they aren’t uncomfortable, so you can wear them all day without tugging and pulling.
Whether you have a special occasion coming up or just want a piece you can wear every day, here are the best shapewear items to help you look sleek and smooth in all your clothes.
Best shapewear Best shapewear for weddings and special occasions[ Maidenform Cool Comfort and Anti-Static Slip with Built-In Bra ]
This strapless shapewear slip is perfect underneath a strapless wedding or party dress and even has a low-back design to prevent it from showing beneath the dress. Its built-in underwire bra has cups that comfortably stay in place, eliminating the need for a separate bra. It also offers firm control to smooth your stomach and hips.
[ SPANX Shapewear for Women Thinstincts Open-Bust Mid-Thigh Bodysuit ]
With an open-bust design, this shapewear bodysuit works well under sleeveless wedding or party dresses. It’s made of breathable microfiber and features a pinch-free design, so it’s comfortable enough to wear all day. The engineered shaping panel helps effectively smooth your lower stomach, too.
Best shapewear briefs[ Maidenform Flexees Women’s Shapewear Hi-Waist Brief ]
These high-waisted briefs offer firm control for the stomach area, giving you a smooth silhouette in your favorite outfits. Their two-ply mesh liner helps shape your body, while the silicone waistband prevents roll down. The soft, lightweight microfiber material is moisture-wicking, too, so it keeps you cool and dry.
[ Jockey Women’s Slimmers Breathe Briefs ]
If you only want light shaping in the stomach area, these slimming briefs are comfortable enough to wear all day. They’re made of a lightweight, breathable material that wicks away moisture and they have a no-roll waistband to keep them in place. They also feature ruching in the back center to provide a flattering fit.
[ SPANX Shapewear for Women Everyday Shaping Tummy Control Thong Panties ]
For everyday stomach shaping without any visible panty lines, these thong-style shapewear briefs can do the job. They offer targeted support with a wide waistband and have a seamless design that looks great under form-fitting outfits. They’re available in multiple skin tone colors, as well as black and other neutrals.
Best shapewear bottoms[ SPANX Shapewear for Women Thinstincts Mid-Thigh Shaping Short ]
You can wear these mid-thigh shaping shorts under dresses and skirts, but they can also work well with your favorite pants and some shorts. They’re made of a breathable spandex/nylon blend and are designed to target the stomach area. They’re available in nude and black.
[ Naomi and Nicole Shapewear Women’s Luxurious Shaping High-Waist Thigh Slimmer ]
Made of a soft, two-ply nylon blend, these shapewear shorts feature a high-waisted design, so they work well to smooth your stomach, back, waist, hips and thighs. They also have a silicone grip around the inside of the leg openings to prevent them from rolling up. The front is entirely seamless.
Best shapewear tanks and camisoles[ Naomi and Nicole Shapewear No Side Show Waist Shaping Tank ]
You can wear this soft, firm-control tank on its own or underneath your outfit for a smoothing effect. It has wide shoulder straps to hide your bra and a scoop neck and low back to disappear under clothes if you prefer. It also has a silicone grip on the inner hem to keep it in place and is comfortable enough to wear all day.
Best shapewear bodysuits and slips[ Bali Lace N Smooth Firm-Control Body Shaper ]
This comfortable shaping bodysuit offers firm control for all-over smoothing. It has lined, seamless bra cups and adjustable straps to provide the support you need. It also has a hook-and-eye closure in the crotch, so it’s easy to get on and off. The lace detail helps it stand out from other shapewear.
[ Maidenform Ultra-Firm Women’s Body Shape with Built-in Underwire Bra ]
This ultra-firm body shaper helps smooth your stomach, hips and back, so you feel more confident in your favorite outfits. It has a built-in bra with excellent support and features eye-catching lace details. It’s also made of super-soft microfiber that feels comfortable on the skin, but still provides excellent shaping.
[ Red Hot by SPANX Open-Bust Slip ]
This shaping slip can smooth your stomach and hips and lift your rear in your favorite dresses and skirts. It also has an open-bust design, so you can wear it with any bra you like. The double-layer panel in the abdomen also offers highly effective stomach control. It has a silicone-lined hem to keep it from rolling.
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Stay warm on your winter commute with these heated travel blankets
Which heated travel blankets are best?
With all the cheer of the holidays and the refreshing feeling of a brand new year around the corner, it’s easy to forget about the uncomfortable necessities of the holidays. Among the worst necessities is the dreaded holiday travel. From impatient drivers to dangerous winter conditions, accidents can happen at any time. Or everything can go perfectly, except for the cold. Whether you want to be prepared for the worst or just want to stay warm on the road, consider a heated travel blanket.
Power sourceHeated travel blankets typically have one of three power sources, though a handful may have two or all three. They include:
TemperatureWhen it comes to the temperature of a heated travel blanket, there are two aspects to consider:
Other aspects to considerSmaller considerations that can help you break a tie if you’re torn between a few options include:
CostMost heated travel blankets cost $30 or less. Better blankets, whether it be because of higher temperatures, better features and extra settings, can cost up to $60. A handful of unique versions can cost $100-plus.
Best heated travel blankets[ Car Cozy Heated Travel Blanket ]
This blanket uses a 12-volt plug and is made of polyester fleece. It has a safety timer and automatic shut-off. It measures 58 by 42 inches, big enough for two in a backseat.
[ Eddie Bauer Heated Travel Blanket ]
This blanket uses a battery for heat anywhere, and even has five heat settings and can be set to turn off after two, three or four hours. It measures 40 by 50 inches and comes in nine styles.
[ Goallim Heated Travel Blanket ]
This blanket has three heat settings and uses a USB cord for power. It can even run off of a standard power bank and comes with a travel bag. It measures 58 by 38 inches.
[ Great Working Tools Heated Travel Blanket ]
This blanket has three heat settings and three timer settings to shut off after 30, 45 or 60 minutes. It measures 55 by 40 inches and comes in three styles.
[ Magiona Heated Travel Blanket ]
This blanket is machine-washable and all you have to do is take off the heating controller before it is washed and dried. It measures 55 by 40 inches and comes in two styles.
[ Motor Trend Heated Travel Blanket ]
This blanket has an extra-long cable of 78 inches, so it can comfortably reach anyone in your car. It measures 58 by 42 inches and comes in two styles.
This blanket uses a USB cord for power and comes with a travel bag. It has three heat settings, with its highest reaching 100 degrees. It measures 57 by 37 inches.
[ Sojoy Heated Travel Blanket ]
This blanket has a high and low heat setting and automatically shuts off after 30, 45 or 60 minutes. The power cord is 72 inches long and it measures 60 by 40 inches.
[ Stalwart Heated Travel Blanket ]
This blanket is one of the largest, measuring 59 by 43 inches, plus it has one of the longest cords at 96 inches. It can’t be machine-washed, though, and uses only a 12-volt plug.
[ Zonetech Heated Travel Blanket ]
This blanket comes with both a 12-volt plug and a wall outlet adapter so you can use it almost anywhere. It measures 59 by 43 inches and comes with a travel bag.
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Jordan C. Woika writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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Winderman’s view: Heat celebrate Wade, then celebrate against Hornets on win-win night
MIAMI — Observations and other notes of interest from Sunday night’s 104-87 victory over the Charlotte Hornets:
– The Heat gave Dwyane Wade another night on Sunday, honoring his induction this past August in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
– And then revealed that there will be another night for Wade next season.
– With Heat President Pat Riley announcing at halftime that the team next fall will unveil a Wade statue in front of Kaseya Center.
– It was an announcement that caught Wade off guard and moved him to tears.
– “I’m so grateful,” Wade said at center court.
– “When we retired his jersey in 2020,” Riley said, “I said Dwyane was the face of this franchise forever and I meant it. Dwyane’s legacy is a towering one not only for the Miami Heat, but for Wade county.”
– Riley added, “I can’t think of a better way to honor him than by memorializing that legacy.”
– In a release issued at halftime, the Heat said, “Sculptors Omri Amrany and Oscar León of Fine Art Studio Rotblatt Amrany have been commissioned to create the Wade statue. Amrany’s works of retired NBA stars include the iconic ‘Michael Jordan Spirit’ in Chicago, as well as statues of Shaquille O’Neal, Dirk Nowitzki and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar among many others. León’s works include a bronze of baseball Hall of Famer Nellie Fox as well as several commercial installations.”
– Amrany and León in the statement said, “We are honored and excited to capture the essence of Dwyane Wade. It is a privilege for both the athlete to be immortalized and for us, as artists, to create a statue that celebrates a lifetime of excellence. We dreamed about this for many years and now, it’s a reality!”
– As for the game, yes, the Heat maximized their four-game homestand by going 3-1.
– But it was maximized for more than the three wins.
– It allowed an extended look at Nikola Jovic as starter.
– It afforded Haywood Highsmith and Caleb Martin the opportunity to work their way back into the rotation.
– It gave Jimmy Butler all the time off he needed.
– In that regard, appreciation is due the Rockets, Magic and Hornets, who proved to be the right guests at the right time.
– With the Thunder showing the strides that still need to be made.
– To a degree this was a step forward from a lineup perspective, with the Heat going with a first five used four previous times.
– That was after unveiling a 21st lineup in Friday night’s victory over the Magic.
– The Heat opened Sunday with Bam Adebayo, Jovic, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Tyler Herro and Kyle Lowry.
– In addition to again being without Butler due to his ongoing toe issue, the Heat also were without Kevin Love due to a knee bruise.
– Then Jaquez was lost for the second half with a groin strain..
– As for Love, he has been an anchor of the second unit.
– “He’s a glue guy. He’s a connector,” Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said pregame. “He makes a lot of lineups look better, and that’s what great players do. He’s fully embraced this role. We’ve embraced him, as well. He’s a value add big time.”
– Spoelstra added, “It doesn’t take a lot to figure out why it works. If you can get a player at this stage of their careers where they embraced this kind role, that’s a great thing.”
– But with Highsmith and Martin back from their recent injuries, Spoelstra said the depth still was there.
– “We have other guys who have been playing and stepping up,” Spoelstra said of being without Love, “and thankfully we have some other guys that are back.”
– The Heat’s first two 3-point attempts were by Jovic and Adebayo. Both missed.
– Highsmith played as the Heat’s first reserve, entering for Adebayo, with Jovic moving to center.
– Highsmith then started the second half when Jaquez was lost with a strained left groin.
– The teams opened a combined 0 for 10 on 3-pointers.
– With Duncan Robinson shortly thereafter summoned off the bench as the Heat’s second reserve.
– With Josh Richardson also entering during that substitution.
– Martin then made it nine deep for Spoelstra.
– At that point, the only available players yet to see action were Thomas Bryant and Orlando Robinson.
– The Hornets, without sidelined Gordon Hayward and Brandon Miller, opened with Nick Richards, Miles Bridges, LaMelo Ball, Terry Rozier and Cody Martin, twin brother of the Heat’s Caleb Martin.
– Spoelstra said Ball being back from injury changes the dynamic of the Hornets.
– “The pace that he can bring and the way that he can set up other guys is unique,” Spoelstra said. “And that’s so much of this league, is whether you can get your bodies out there. When they’ve been able to have the majority of their guys, which they don’t, Haywood is out, it’s an explosive offensive team.”
– Of his team’s woes, Hornets coach Steve Clifford said pregame, “We’ve lost our pace. We’re not inside-out anymore. We’ve got to get back to playing faster.”
– Of his team’s roster situation, Clifford said, “They’ve done a good job, but we just need better play from those guys. It’s not easy. We have a bunch of younger guys that are playing minutes that are challenging for them. It’s a great opportunity, but it’s also a responsibility.”
– Among those on Clifford’s Hornets coaching staff is former Heat guard Rex Walters, the former FAU coach, and former Heat forward Tyrone Corbin.
– Richardson addressed the crowd pregame as the Heat unfurled an “I Have a Dream” banner pregame ahead of Monday’s holiday
– The game concluded the four-game season series against the Hornets.
– The Heat entered on a 21-game home winning streak against the Southeast Division.
– The Heat also entered 9-0 overall against the Southeast.
Heat announce statue for Dwyane Wade, rout Hornets, but lose Jaime Jaquez to injury
MIAMI – Dwyane Wade can have good things. The Miami Heat made that clear Sunday, announcing the franchise icon next fall will become the team’s first player to have a statue in front of Kaseya Center, a halftime announcement by Heat President Pat Riley that brought Wade to tears.
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But in this injury-ravaged season, the Heat on Sunday also had to deal with the reality that even in victory, adversity remains front and center.
Already playing in the injury absences of Jimmy Butler and Kevin Love, the Heat lost rookie guard Jaime Jaquez Jr. with a strained left groin for the second half of Sunday night’s 104-87 victory over the Charlotte Hornets.
While the victory closed out a 3-1 homestand, the concern now is with Jaquez, who missed two weeks with a similar injury during the preseason,
“He is not going to travel,” coach Erik Spoelstra said, with the Heat next playing Monday night in Brooklyn. “We are listing him after this game day to day. He says and our trainers say it’s not as severe as the one he had.”
As for Sunday night’s victory, the Heat went up 24 in the second quarter and nursed the lead to the finish, with Butler out again with a toe injury and Love sitting out with a knee bruise.
“It was a professional approach,” Spoelstra said. “We talked at the walkthrough meeting that we wanted to finish this homestand 3-1.”
After Jaquez helped set the tone with a 15-point first quarter, Tyler Herro picked up the Heat scoring from there, closing with 21 points. The Heat also got 24 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists from Bam Adebayo and 19 points from Duncan Robinson.
Adebayo said it was a victory made all the more meaningful by the Wade announcement.
“That’s my big brother,” he said.
The Heat next head out for a two-game trip that concludes Wednesday night against the Toronto Raptors.
For the Heat it truly was a night of contrasts, from losing Jaquez to Wade’s tears of joy.
“It’s not something I dreamed of,” Wade said of his statue, “but it’s something I definitely grew up knowing about. Michael Jordan had a statue in Chicago. That was the first statue I’ve ever seen, so to be able to be at this point in my life where I know that the same feeling I had when Jordan had his statue is the same feeling that young kids will have coming, getting an opportunity to visit mine, families will have, being able to create memories and moments.”
Five Degrees of Heat from Sunday night’s game:
1. Game flow: The Heat led 26-16 at the end of the first quarter and 52-31 at halftime.
The 31 points was the lowest-scoring half in the NBA this season, with the total also the lowest scoring total in a half against the Heat this season, with the previous low by a Heat opponent a 37-point second half by the Raptors.
The Hornets shot 13 of 46 from the field in the first half, including 1 of 18.
The Raptors then closed within 11 in the third quarter, before the Heat went into the fourth up 77-61.
Charlotte also got back within 11 early in the fourth, before the Heat again pushed their lead into the 20s.
“Just got to sustain,” Adebayo said of the night’s rollercoaster. “That’s the biggest thing for us tonight. And we got the W.”
2. In and out: While the Heat got Kyle Lowry back from his two-game injury absence with a sprained left hand and Herro from the strained right shoulder that kept him out in Friday night’s victory over the Orlando Magic, the Heat were without Butler and Love.
“I needed a day just to let it calm down.” Herro said of the game he missed.
Lowry closed scoreless on 0-for-3 shooting in 26 minutes.
“We’re trying to manage a bunch of things,” Spoelstra said of the balance of wins and health.
Butler, who has now missed seven consecutive games with what the team has been listing as a right-toe MP joint sprain, worked five-on-five over the weekend and is expected to return Monday.
Butler has played only once since Dec. 18, then missing four consecutive games with a strained left calf.
Spoelstra said Butler and Love are traveling for the two-game trip.
3. Still Nikola: It is beginning to look more and more as if Nikola Jovic might be more than just an injury replacement as the Heat’s starting power forward.
Even with Caleb Martin and Haywood Highsmith available, Jovic made his sixth consecutive start, in an opening lineup rounded out by Adebayo, Herro, Lowry and Jaquez, who again started in place of Butler.
It was the fifth time the Heat have opened with that lineup, after unveiling their 21st starting lineup of the season on Friday night.
With Love out, Jovic moved to point center when Adebayo went out in the first quarter.
“This was potentially a trap game,” Spoelstra said, with Charlotte falling to 8-29 with the loss.
4. Then Jaquez: Jaquez had 13 of the Heat’s first 17 points, often leaking out on Hornets shots for hit-ahead passes.
Jaquez shot 7 of 10 in the first quarter, with 15 points in the period, with the rest of the Heat 4 of 15 over the 12 minutes. It was the highest scoring quarter of the rookie’s career.
But then, at halftime, the Heat announced Jaquez was lost for the night.
“When I went up for that dunk in transition, I didn’t feel well when I took off,” Jaquez said. “We came to the decision to shut it down.”
Jaquez had been the only Heat player to appear in each of the first 39 games, with everyone else on the roster having missed at least two games.
“I feel like when one guy comes back, another goes down,” Herro said.
5. Banner week: The Heat honored Wade at halftime for his induction this past summer into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Wade’s retired No. 3 banner, which features a Hall of Fame acknowledgment, was spotlighted before the game and halftime, as the Heat otherwise only do with their three NBA championship banners.
On Friday, the Heat will honor former Wade teammate Udonis Haslem by raising Haslem’s No. 40 to the rafters.
Wade addressed the crowd at halftime,
“When I look up there, I think of so many of the memories,” Wade told the crowd at halftime. “So this is for us.”
Wade called Sunday, “a beautiful day to come back and celebrate what we accomplished.”
Said Spoelstra, “It was a great night to get the win, finish the homestand.”
General Daily Insight for January 15, 2024
General Daily Insight for January 15, 2024
We can tap into our third eye at this time. The intuitive Moon conjoins creative Neptune, strengthening our intuition and encouraging us to express ourselves in ways that were once blocked. Even more blessings arrive as the confident Sun sextiles Neptune, elevating our energy and providing us with a more spiritual view of our world. Finally, the Moon works with transformative Pluto to bring a little bit of this energy within, changing us for the better. Don’t cling to what needs to be let go.
AriesMarch 21 – April 19
Your spiritual and creative sides can support your goals now. You might have felt like you’ve had to rely on your logic alone for a while, but once you ponder everything, you can figure out how your intuition and imagination can untangle your concerns. Perhaps you’ve been throwing yourself at a problem that just wasn’t being solved through traditional reasoning, so it could be time to take an innovative approach to manage the issue. Let your mind and soul work together.
TaurusApril 20 – May 20
Teaching others what you know can delight everyone involved. You might find that there are people in your midst today, whether or not you’re already familiar with them, that you’re able to educate about a subject that they know nothing about, but that would likely help them. This could be someone with a broken-down vehicle that simply needs a tire change, or you may know a language that can cross a barrier between two people. Regardless of the circumstances, don’t hesitate to share your knowledge.
GeminiMay 21 – June 20
You may now be taking care of someone others aren’t willing to handle. You’re possibly saying what is on everyone’s mind in order to relieve the tension or managing an uncomfortable situation to take weight off of everyone’s shoulders. It could be that you are a catalyst to solve this difficult situation, and while the people around you might not understand how or why you chose to tackle the issue, they’re likely relieved that you had the gumption to do so. Be bold!
CancerJune 21 – July 22
The people closest to you might share shocking facts about them at any moment. You may have had preconceived notions about this person, to the point that changing your mental image of them is jarring, especially if you had believed incorrect information regarding them for a long time. Sometimes it’s not easy to alter your mental image of someone, but put yourself in their shoes: you’d likely hope that they would do the same for you. Be a friend to have a friend.
LeoJuly 23 – August 22
Something could be missing! While you might be faced with stressful situations without warning, they are meant to alert you to whatever needs to be elevated in your life. It’s possible that you’re scrambling at the last second to finish something that you procrastinated on, or the concern may even be that you forgot an important task that is coming back to haunt you. Use this to plan better by checking and re-checking your to-do list early on to avoid such issues!
VirgoAugust 23 – September 22
You might be ready to start cutting back wherever you’re overdoing it. Too much of anything isn’t healthy, and pretending that you’re able to handle it — whether “it” is an outside issue or an inner spiral — isn’t your best bet. While you can handle a lot, you don’t have to handle everything! Perhaps a habit has gotten out of control, strained boundaries have begun damaging a relationship, or your work habits are exhausting your soul. Regardless of the specific issue, balance is key.
LibraSeptember 23 – October 22
Your inner life may throw off your schedule. Sometimes you need some time to yourself, whether it’s spent getting more rest, managing the turmoil of grief, or even healing from physical wounds or illnesses. However, you might be sacrificing your routine in order to let yourself have this time to restore your soul. Intentions will be everything when it comes to picking up your habits once more. You’re allowed to rest, but keep in mind that you’re capable of self-discipline when necessary.
ScorpioOctober 23 – November 21
You might be communicating in an extra expressive way. The way that you relate to others may be rather flamboyant, which isn’t bad — but others might feel overwhelmed if you’re too over the top as you deliver your news. While you could truly have a lot of dramatic stories to convey, that could result in the other person feeling conversationally run over. Make sure that you’re offering them room to speak as well, because a one-sided conversation leaves one person feeling unheard.
SagittariusNovember 22 – December 21
Your inner security can have a strong reflection on your present outer life. While your intuition is likely accurate regarding new forms of revenue and investments, it may be weaker when it comes to making changes and moving away from what’s holding you back. You have the drive and the goal in mind, you just might not be pointed in the right direction to get there. Be wary of ending up way off because you simply weren’t aimed correctly. Set your target before takeoff.
CapricornDecember 22 – January 19
You can visualize a clearer idea of your future self. Knowing who you want to be starts with recognizing who you are — and acknowledging the changes you must make to become your dream self. There are likely people that you’re taking inspiration from — consider reaching out to them and asking them what they did to get to where they are. Even if you don’t know them personally, keep your eyes open for interviews that you can read or listen to for guidance.
AquariusJanuary 20 – February 18
Spiritual acceptance may provide you with more peace in your life. You currently have the ability to see reality for what it is, accept it, and then begin looking for ways to enjoy yourself more. We all have restrictions and limitations on our lives, but wrestling against them fruitlessly will just exhaust you. Learn to accept your shadow and the traits or even people that are holding you back — just don’t let them run the show. Slowly introduce the changes you need.
PiscesFebruary 19 – March 20
Who you are in a certain group could differ from how you normally are. This is most likely to affect you in a positive and supportive way at the moment, as a community that you’re spending more time with might help you feel and act more like who you want to be — in constant to past circles that may have tried to tell you who to be and how to behave. Be with those who resonate with you, not drown out your song.
Live updates: GOP candidates make last-minute appeals to Iowa voters
With just one day to go until Iowa’s presidential caucuses, candidates are urging their supporters to brave bone-chilling cold and blustery wind to help carry them through Republicans’ leadoff voting contest.
What to know- Here’s what to expect in the 2024 Iowa caucuses
- After months of campaigning, the Republican candidates vying to unseat President Joe Biden in November are facing their first formal test from voters.
- Nikki Haley, the former U.N. ambassador and South Carolina governor, and Ron DeSantis, the Florida governor, remain locked in a close battle for second.
- Iowa’s winter blast could make an unrepresentative way of picking nominees even more so. Already, Haley was forced to cancel an in-person stop because of poor weather conditions.
ANKENY — DeSantis took the stage with his wife and three young children Sunday night, joking that the severe weather has a little TV-style comic irony to it.
“We could do a sitcom on this,” DeSantis said to almost 1,000 people gathered at an events center in Ankeny, one of the largest audiences of his entire campaign. “Taking a Florida family and dropping them in the middle of a blizzard.”
DeSantis, who commonly travels with his kids, said that as of last month they had never seen snow and that they were excited when they did. “They had snowball fights and all that stuff,” he said. “They loved it.”
In the meantime, the temperature has dropped to well below zero on top of a foot of snow, forming glacier-like snowbanks.
“Well, now after seeing all this,” he said, “they say it’s a little too cold.”
Ernst shows up at DeSantis event, tooIowa Sen. Joni Ernst doesn’t want to be accused of not playing fair.
Hours after she appeared at an event with Haley in Ames, Ernst was among a crowd of more than 200 at a DeSantis event in Ankeny. She kicked off the event by introducing DeSantis’ lieutenant governor, Jeanette Núñez.
Haley offers well wishes for family of slain Iowa principalAt her closing event of the last day ahead of Iowa’s GOP caucuses, Haley offered well wishes for the family of an Iowa principal who died Sunday of injuries suffered in a school shooting earlier this month.
“Today my heart dropped again when I learned that we lost Dan Marburger,” she said, speaking in a wood-paneled lodge packed with several hundred supporters. “This principal was a hero. He saved lives.”
Marburger died 10 days after a 17-year-old student opened fire at Perry High School. An 11-year-old middle school student also died in the shooting, which ended with the gunman’s death.
“God bless (Marburger) and his family,” Haley said. “And we have got to finally acknowledge once and for all the cancer that is mental health in America.”
Former Iowa chair says Haley is ‘leaning into the future’ADEL — David Oman, a former co-chair of the Iowa Republican Party, says he thinks Haley is far and away the best choice for the GOP, in part because she’s “leaning into the future.”
“I felt in my head and heart that the choice is pretty easy,” Oman said ahead of Haley’s final pre-caucus day event. “She’s got some good policy ideas and a lot of energy – what’s not to love?”
He also said that the country needs a president “to come in and take stock of new ideas and new people in key roles, reassert our leadership – that speaks to national security, which for me is always an important issue, and some of the others are frankly a little weak, in my view.”
Iowa Republican leader predicts ‘robust’ caucus turnoutIowa Republican Party Chair Jeff Kaufmann is feeling more optimistic about caucus turnout than he was a few days ago.
“If you would have asked me this and the caucuses would have been two days ago, I would have said we would have significantly less turnout,” Kaufmann told reporters at a briefing hosted by Bloomberg on Sunday.
Clear skies Sunday that helped create conditions for crews to clear the roads bolstered his confidence. He said he was more concerned about icy roads than about low temperatures, which he said Iowans were accustomed to.
Without putting an exact number on it, Kauffman said, “I think it’s going to be a robust turnout.”
DeSantis dons an overcoat days after leaving his at homeDeSantis is wearing a winter coat again.
The Florida governor was bundled up at a campaign event in Cedar Rapids on Sunday, days after he left his coat at home in the Sunshine State when he was there delivering his State of the State address Tuesday.
“This is my winter coat. I have not worn this since I’ve been governor once,” DeSantis said in Iowa.
He told a crowd at a construction contractors convention in Des Moines on Wednesday that his staff was hustling his coat from Tallahassee.
Freezing in Iowa? This voter is still wearing shortsDUBUQUE — Mark Calhoun wears shorts every day of the year.
The 61-year-old fan of DeSantis (and the Dallas Cowboys) ventured out in subzero temperatures Sunday — with bare legs — to see the candidate in Dubuque.
“He’s what we need,” Calhoun said.
The coldest caucus temperatures won’t keep him away Monday.
‘This is good pizza,’ Trump says after stop at Casey’sWAUKEE — Trump and his former-rival-turned-backer, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, dropped by a Casey’s convenience store to pick up pizzas after his Indianola rally.
“The best you’ll ever have,” said a Casey’s worker as he handed over the food.
Tribune photo by Charles CherneyRepublican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump eats pizza with fire fighters at Waukee Fire Department in Waukee, Iowa, Sunday, Jan. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)Trump then made another stop to deliver the pizzas to members of the Waukee Fire Department. He handed the stack of boxes out down the line of those assembled and chatted about their trucks and their work.
Trump then asked for a slice of his own.
“Good luck, everybody,” he said before taking a bite and continuing to chat as he ate. “This is good pizza, by the way,” he said.
Iowa Sen. Ernst introduces Haley at campaign eventAMES — Speaking to a room packed full of Iowans and out-of-state volunteers, Haley gave an abbreviated version of her campaign speech, drawing frequent cheers from the pink necklace and boa-clad “Women for Nikki” volunteers.
“It’s been eleven months, and it comes down to tomorrow,” Haley said of Monday’s caucuses, repeating her frequent call to GOP voters to elect her as a “new generational leader that leaves the negativity and the baggage behind and focuses on the solutions of the future.”
Jonathan Daniel / Getty ImagesSen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, introduces Republican presidential candidate former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley during a campaign event at Jethro’s BBQ in Ames, Iowa, Sunday, Jan. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)Haley was introduced by Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, who hasn’t endorsed a candidate in the 2024 campaign but said the former South Carolina governor is “inspiring so many people across the state of Iowa, inspiring them so much to get out and support her in the caucuses, support her in this quest for the nomination of the Republican Party for our president of the United States.”
Volunteers swarm Iowa to help give candidates last-minute boostAMES — Out-of-state volunteers have descended on Iowa to help boost enthusiasm for their given candidates in the waning hours before the state’s leadoff caucuses.
On Sunday in Ames, dozens of women festooned in hot pink feather boas and beaded necklaces waved “Women for Nikki” signs ahead of her afternoon event.
One of them was Alissa Baker, who said she has been calling Iowans and knocking on doors since she arrived from Virginia on Saturday.
“We’ve stepped up our efforts on phone banking and definitely been making a lot more phone calls,” Baker said. “We’re doing everything that you would normally do to get out the caucus support.”
On Monday night, Baker said she would serve as a caucus captain for Haley’s campaign in the Ames area, telling caucusgoers why they should support the Republican.
Rubio endorses Trump before Iowa caucusesWASHINGTON — Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida has become the 24th Republican senator to endorse Trump for president.
Rubio’s endorsement on Sunday means the two U.S. senators from Florida are now firmly behind Trump instead of DeSantis, their home-state governor. Trump is now one Republican senator short of securing the majority support of the GOP senators.
“I support Trump because that kind of leadership is the ONLY way we will get the extraordinary actions needed to fix the disaster Biden has created,” he said on X, formerly known as Twitter. “It’s time to get on with the work of beating Biden & saving America!”
The endorsement of Trump is a bit of a surprise, given that Haley endorsed Rubio when he was running in the 2016 Republican presidential campaign. Rubio dropped out of that race after losing Florida.
Hutchinson isn’t giving up on IowaAMES — He hasn’t been as visible on the campaign trail this week as some of the other Republican contenders, but Asa Hutchinson is still homing in on Iowa.
Tribune photo by Charles CherneyRepublican presidential candidate former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson leaves a campaign event, Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024, in Des Moines, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)The former Arkansas governor was spotted Sunday at the same Ames barbecue restaurant where Haley was hosting a campaign rally. Hutchinson met with some lunchtime diners and did a media interview before heading out.
Hutchinson qualified for the first Republican candidate debate but didn’t meet the markers for the subsequent four. He said last week that he expects to beat expectations in Iowa’s caucuses.
Iowan says DeSantis’ response to Hamas attack cemented his supportCOUNCIL BLUFFS — Hans Rudin, a 49-year-old community college adviser in Council Bluffs, Iowa, says DeSantis’ response to the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas won the Florida governor his support.
Rudin supported Trump in the past two elections but has now decided to caucus for DeSantis. The DeSantis administration arranged flights for Americans evacuating from Israel and sent cargo planes with health care supplies, drones, body armor and helmets.
“The definite trigger was Israel,” Rudin said, adding that he did not like Trump’s criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu days after the attack saying he “let us down” about another operation in which the U.S. killed top Iranian general Qassem Soleimani in 2020.
“I thought, This guy’s kind of a jerk. Well, I knew that beforehand in many ways, but I like Israel so much,” he said.
Nevertheless, Rudin said he would still support Trump over President Joe Biden if Trump becomes the Republican nominee.
Vote, no matter what, Trump saysINDIANOLA — Trump is telling his supporters not to let anything stop them from voting for him in Monday’s Iowa caucuses.
“You can’t sit at home. If you’re sick as a dog … Even if you vote and then pass away,” Trump said at his Sunday rally.
Snow stops, but frigid temperatures set inThe snow may have stopped falling across Iowa, but evidence of the treacherous storm that bore down on the state earlier this week remains.
Major interstates in the Des Moines area were mostly clear on Sunday, but wrecked cars and tractor trailers stranded in the snowstorms of recent days littered medians and areas just off the road.
Bone-chilling temperatures have now set in across the state ahead of Monday night’s presidential caucuses. In Des Moines on Sunday afternoon, it was mostly sunny and cold, with a high near minus-9 degrees Fahrenheit (minus-23 Celsius). The wind chill made it feel as cold as minus-30 Fahrenheit (minus-34 Celsius).
Former rival endorses Trump for presidentINDIANOLA — Former Republican presidential candidate Doug Burgum is endorsing Trump for president.
“Four years ago, I was speaking on behalf of President Trump at the Iowa caucuses in Sioux City. And today I’m here to do something that none of the other presidential primary candidates have done, and that’s endorse Donald J. Trump for the president of the United States of America,” the North Dakota governor said, appearing with Trump at a rally in Indianola on Sunday.
Burgum, who ended his own campaign last month, said he’d had a “front-row seat,” both as a business leader and a governor, to see what Trump can do.
‘Go back to Mommy,’ Trump tells protesters who crash his rallyINDIANOLA — Trump’s rally was briefly interrupted by protesters — the first time it’s happened in years.
“You’ve taken millions!” a woman shouted as Trump was mid-rally, prompting the crowd to respond with a “Trump!” chant to drown her out.
“Go back to Mommy,” Trump responded as she was led out of the room. “So young and immature.”
Moments later came another protester, this one holding a black and yellow banner that read “Trump Climate Criminal.” He shouted the same thing. The same group interrupted a DeSantis town hall and a separate event for the Florida governor in Ames last week.
When he was running in 2016, Trump’s events were routinely interrupted by protesters.
“That used to happen all the time,” Trump remarked. “It always adds excitement.”
Couple heads to DeSantis event after Haley’s stop canceledDUBUQUE — Judy and Brad Knowler drove a few miles from Peosta to hear Haley in Dubuque. A couple of hours later, after Haley’s in-person stop was canceled, they found themselves down the road at an event for DeSantis.
Brad, 67, is sure he’ll support Haley in Monday’s caucuses, but Judy, 64, was hoping to hear her in person to “give me a little bit more confidence.” From debates and negative political ads, she said, “it’s really hard to see the real person.”
“I have one foot in Nikki’s camp, but we’ll see,” she said as she waited for DeSantis to take the stage. “It’s an opportunity most Americans don’t get to be this close in person.”
‘Let’s see if we can get to 50%,’ Trump saysDES MOINES — Trump is setting high expectations in Iowa the day before the state’s caucuses — even as he criticizes those who are trying to do the same.
“Somebody won by 12 points, and that was like a record,” he said, citing Republican Bob Dole’s margin of victory in 1988.
“Well, we should do that. If we don’t do that, let ’em criticize us, right?” Trump told volunteers in Des Moines on Sunday morning. “But let’s see if we can get to 50%.”
Moments earlier, Trump had been complaining about the expectation that he earn a majority of the caucus votes Monday night.
“There seems to be something about 50%,” he said. “Now it doesn’t matter from a numbers standpoint. I think they’re doing it so that they can set a high expectation so if we end up with 49%, which would be about 25 points bigger than anyone else ever got, they can say, ’He had a failure, it was a failure.’”
Trump says Iowa win would be a victory over the ‘liars, cheaters’INDIANOLA — Trump sounded a message of vengeance at his only Iowa rally this weekend.
“These caucuses are your personal chance to score the ultimate victory over all of the liars, cheaters, thugs, perverts, frauds, crooks, freaks, creeps and other quite nice people,” he said at a commit-to-caucus event in Indianola.
“The Washington swamp has done everything in its power to take away your voice,” Trump added. “But tomorrow is your time to turn on them and to say and speak your mind and to vote. And we’re going to take this country back.”
‘Walk on glass’ for Trump? These supporters wouldINDIANOLA — Marc Smiarowski hunched to fight off the minus 18-degree chill outside the Kent Student Center on Simpson College campus Sunday morning, waiting for doors to open for former President Donald Trump’s midday rally at the small school south of Des Moines.
But as the weak winter sun hung low in the sky, a sense of bitterness burned in Smiarowski.
“I’m here in part out of spite,” said the 44-year-old public utility worker, who drove 40 miles to be there. “I can’t abandon him. After what they did to him in the last election, and the political persecution he faces, I feel like I owe him this. He’s our only option.”
“No one else could handle what he’s facing,” added his friend Kailie Johnson, a 26-year-old dental hygienist from the same small town of Huneston.
More than 30 minutes before the center opened, more than 100 people stood in line while layered in Carhartt coveralls with hats and hoods pulled down tight. It was a test run for Iowa’s caucuses Monday and of the devotion Trump said last week would make his supporters “walk on glass” for him.
Haley skips in-person campaign stop over weatherDUBUQUE — Haley’s campaign stop in Dubuque was canceled Sunday morning because of poor travel conditions, the campaign said about an hour before the scheduled event.
Voters walking into the venue were given the news by campaign staffers, who offered some a T-shirt, hat or yard sign as consolation.
John Schmid, 69, was already waiting at the venue when the event was called off.
“I don’t blame her,” said the retiree from Asbury, a few miles outside Dubuque. He’s already a Haley supporter, but he wanted to see the “refreshing” candidate in person. He hopes Haley will do well in Monday’s caucuses, which he’ll be at despite the bitter cold.
“It’s just part of living in Iowa in January,” he said.
Haley swapped the in-person event with a virtual town hall.
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