Inter Miami star Lionel Messi began the year with a goal against Club América, but the Argentine is already focused on the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup. The match, which took place on January 18, 2025, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, saw Inter Miami CF rally to beat LIGA MX powerhouse Club América 5-4 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in regular time. Lionel Messi scored his first goal of the 2025 preseason, combining with former FC Barcelona teammates Luis Suárez and Jordi Alba to level the score in the 34th minute. Suárez volleyed the ball to Messi, who headed it into the back of the net, just three minutes after Club América's Henry Martín opened the scoring[2][4]. Despite Club América regaining the lead through Israel Reyes in the 53rd minute, Inter Miami managed to find the tying goal once again. Defender Tomás Avilés headed in a corner kick from Julian Gressel in the final minutes of the match, sending the game to penalties. Inter Miami goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo made a pair of saves, and 17-year-old homegrown Santi Morales scored the decisive penalty to secure the win[2][4]. <br /> <br /> The victory marks a strong start to the preseason for Inter Miami under new manager Javier Mascherano, who made his managerial debut in the match. The team is preparing for the 2025 MLS regular-season opener on February 22 against New York City FC and their Concacaf Champions Cup return on February 18 at Sporting Kansas City. Messi's focus on the FIFA Club World Cup indicates his ambition to perform well in international competitions, following his hint about participating in the 2026 World Cup[1].
1/20/2025, 6:36:00 PM
Carrie Underwood demonstrated her professional prowess at the inauguration of President Donald Trump on Monday, January 20, 2025, by handling a musical mishap with grace and skill. Tapped to perform "America the Beautiful" at the ceremony held inside the Rotunda at the U.S. Capitol, Underwood faced an unexpected challenge when the accompanying instrumental track failed to play. <br /> <br /> Undeterred, Underwood quickly assessed the situation and decided to improvise. She invited the audience to join her, saying, "If you know the words, help me out here," before proceeding to sing a cappella. The crowd, which included former President Joe Biden, former Vice President Kamala Harris, and other distinguished guests, responded by singing along with her. <br /> <br /> Underwood's ability to think on her feet and adapt to the technical glitch earned her widespread praise on social media. Many admired her resilience and professionalism, with one person writing, "This pretty much sums up the spirit of America. When you're faced with a problem, you don't stop. You keep moving ahead -- proudly. Kudos to @carrieunderwood. Well done!" Another person simply stated, "This was badass." <br /> <br /> Underwood had previously confirmed her participation in the inauguration, stating, "I love our country and am honored to have been asked to sing at the inauguration and to be a small part of this historic event." Her performance, despite the technical difficulties, was a testament to her dedication and commitment to her craft. <br /> <br /> The event, which marked Trump's second inauguration, featured other performances, including classical singer Christopher Macchio, who sang "Oh, America!" and closed the ceremony with a rendition of the American National Anthem. Despite the challenges, Underwood's a cappella performance of "America the Beautiful" was a highlight of the ceremony, showcasing her talent and professionalism under pressure.
1/20/2025, 6:29:00 PM
The Palisades Fire in Los Angeles' Pacific Palisades, an affluent coastal neighborhood, rapidly expanded to 15,832 acres as of January 8, 1:25 p.m. PST, according to Cal Fire. This made it the largest fire among the four burning in Los Angeles County at that time. The fire, which started on January 7, 2025, has since grown to 23,713 acres and is currently 59% contained as of January 20, 2025[1][5]. The rapid spread of the fire was fueled by strong and dry Santa Ana winds, combined with a lack of rainfall in the area. This unusual weather pattern for January in California contributed to the fire's intensity and size[4]. The Palisades Fire has caused significant damage and loss of life. As of January 20, 2025, 6,051 structures have been destroyed, and 788 structures have been damaged. The fire has also resulted in 10 civilian fatalities and 1 firefighter injury[5]. Evacuation orders and warnings have been issued for various zones in Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Calabasas, Brentwood, and Encino. Residents in some mandatory evacuation zones were allowed to return with valid photo IDs, but many areas remain under evacuation orders or warnings[2]. Firefighters are making steady progress, and officials are reassessing evacuation orders to ensure safe returns. Crews are working with utility companies to restore services and ensure the safety of the affected communities[5].
1/20/2025, 6:07:00 PM
President-elect Donald Trump and his nominee for Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, have both pledged to reinstate and provide back pay to military personnel who were discharged for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine. During his Senate confirmation hearing, Hegseth stated that troops who were kicked out due to the vaccine mandate would be apologized to, reinstated with pay, and have their ranks restored[4]. This aligns with Trump's earlier promise to "rehire every patriot who was fired from the military" because of the vaccine mandate. The vaccine mandate, which was implemented by Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin in 2021, led to the discharge of over 8,400 troops who refused to receive the vaccine. The mandate was later repealed in 2023 following a decision by Congress[2]. Hegseth's commitment to re-recruit these troops with back pay and restored ranks underscores the incoming administration's intent to rectify the situation. This move could particularly affect the Marine Corps, which had the highest number of discharges, with 3,717 Marines being separated due to the vaccine mandate[4]. Trump reaffirmed this promise on Inauguration Day, stating that service members who were dismissed from the military because they refused COVID-19 vaccines will be reinstated with back pay[5]. <br /> <br /> The decision to provide back pay and reinstate these troops reflects a significant shift in policy and could have significant implications for military readiness and morale. It also underscores the new administration's commitment to addressing the concerns of those who were affected by the vaccine mandate.
1/20/2025, 6:03:00 PM
The World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2025 is set to begin on January 20 in Davos, Switzerland, with a diverse array of global leaders in attendance. From India, a significant delegation is participating, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Fadnavis has left for Davos to attend the five-day event, where he is expected to sign memoranda of understanding (MoUs) for various sectors such as data centers, automobiles, semiconductors, electric vehicles, electronics, steel, food processing, textiles, pharma, infrastructure, and others. His efforts will be focused on achieving the objective of making Maharashtra a trillion-dollar economy and generating employment[2][4]. The Indian delegation is the largest-ever, comprising five union ministers, three state chief ministers, and nearly 100 CEOs and leaders from government, civil society, and the arts. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will lead the delegation and engage in discussions about inclusive growth, investment in infrastructure, and democratizing technology. Other Indian leaders attending include the chief ministers of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana[2]. On the global front, the WEF Annual Meeting 2025 will bring together close to 3,000 leaders from over 130 countries. Key political leaders attending include US President-elect Donald Trump (via live video link), European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and many others. Heads of international organizations such as the World Trade Organization, International Monetary Fund, and World Health Organization will also participate[1][5]. The meeting will focus on the theme "Collaboration for the Intelligent Age," emphasizing the need for cooperative approaches to address global challenges and unlock new opportunities. It will feature a diverse range of participants, including business leaders, civil society representatives, and young changemakers, to foster dialogue and build trust among global stakeholders[1][3].
1/19/2025, 6:02:00 PM
The cryptocurrency market is on the cusp of a significant transformation, driven by the integration of advanced technologies such as AI, blockchain gaming, and DeFi. This convergence is expected to bring unprecedented opportunities for exponential gains, making it an exciting time for investors and enthusiasts alike[2]. One of the key trends shaping the future of blockchain is the integration of AI and blockchain technology. This fusion is creating new opportunities, with the market projected to exceed $703 million in 2025. Smart contracts are becoming more sophisticated, incorporating AI-driven conditional decision-making while maintaining blockchain’s transparency and security[1]. Moreover, the ease of launching blockchains is becoming comparable to setting up websites, making it more accessible for new projects to emerge. Wallets are evolving into multipurpose hubs, offering a range of on-chain interactions beyond their traditional functions[3]. The next big surge in the crypto market is anticipated to be driven by projects that combine innovation with practicality. Dawgz AI ($DAGZ) is highlighted as a revolutionary memecoin with real-world utility, making it a top pick for 2025. Other notable cryptos, such as Shiba Inu (SHIB), Pepe Coin (PEPE), and Ethereum (ETH), are also poised for significant gains[2]. As the blockchain landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for investors to position themselves strategically to capitalize on these emerging trends. With the integration of AI, blockchain gaming, and DeFi, the opportunities for growth are vast, making it an exciting time for those in the crypto space. <br /> <br /> The future of blockchain is not just about speculative investments but also about creating real-world applications that can transform industries. The integration of AI and blockchain is expected to explode in 2025, with more projects joining the quest to understand how blockchain can help grow AI and vice versa[3]. The growing importance of chain of trust is another critical aspect of blockchain development in 2025. As businesses increasingly build applications that integrate AI models across their operations, establishing a robust chain of trust between multiple parties will become essential[5]. In conclusion, the next big thing in crypto is already here, and it is creating massive waves in the blockchain space. With the integration of AI, blockchain gaming, and DeFi, the opportunities for growth are vast, making it an exciting time for investors and enthusiasts alike.
1/19/2025, 6:00:00 PM
The specific news about a senator from South Carolina (S.C.) defending President-elect Donald Trump's pick for FBI director, Kash Patel, and explaining why he supports him on CBS' "Face the Nation," is not directly available in the provided search results. However, the context and controversy surrounding Trump's nomination of Kash Patel can be elaborated upon based on the available information. President-elect Donald Trump's decision to nominate Kash Patel as the next FBI director has been met with significant opposition from Democrats and some former Trump officials. Patel, a staunch loyalist, has been involved in promoting conspiracy theories about the 2020 election and the "deep state," and has published an "enemies" list of critics and high-ranking officials[1][2]. Critics argue that Patel's confirmation would put him in charge of the federal law enforcement agency, which he could potentially use to target his perceived enemies. This raises concerns about the politicization and potential abuse of the FBI's power[1][4]. The current FBI director, Christopher Wray, is still serving his 10-year term, which is due to end in 2027. Trump's move to nominate Patel despite Wray's ongoing term has sparked outrage and warnings from lawmakers[2][4]. While the specific comments from a senator from South Carolina are not available, the broader context suggests that any defense of Patel's nomination would likely focus on his loyalty to Trump and potentially his alignment with Trump's political views. However, without the specific comments, it is impossible to provide a detailed explanation of why a senator might support Patel's nomination. <br /> <br /> Given the controversy and concerns surrounding Patel's nomination, it is crucial to consider the implications of his potential confirmation on the integrity and independence of the FBI. The public deserves transparency and accountability regarding Patel's conduct and any potential politicization of the FBI under his leadership[1].
1/19/2025, 5:44:00 PM
Oscar-nominated director James Mangold directs Timothée Chalamet as the Nobel-Prize winning musician Bob Dylan in 'A Complete Unknown'. The film, which focuses on Dylan's early career, features an ensemble cast including Edward Norton as Pete Seeger, Elle Fanning as Sylvie Russo (a renamed version of Dylan's then-girlfriend Suze Rotolo), Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez, and Boyd Holbrook as Johnny Cash. <br /> <br /> Chalamet spent five years preparing for the role, which included learning to sing and play guitar, as well as mastering the harmonica. He worked with a team of coaches to embody Dylan's voice, dialect, and movement. The actor performed live throughout the film, singing and strumming entire songs, instead of using prerecorded vocals or instruments. This approach was praised by Mangold, who noted that it added authenticity to the performances[1]. <br /> <br /> The film follows Dylan's journey from his arrival in New York City in 1961 to his controversial performance at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. It explores his relationships with other musicians, including Seeger, Baez, and Cash, who played significant roles in his career. Mangold aimed to capture the essence of the era rather than strictly adhering to historical facts, making the film more about the spirit of the time than a traditional biopic[4]. <br /> <br /> Chalamet's dedication to the role is evident in his performances, which have been praised for their authenticity and depth. The film offers a unique look into Dylan's early career and the influences that shaped his music. With its talented cast and meticulous attention to detail, 'A Complete Unknown' is a compelling portrayal of a pivotal moment in music history.
1/19/2025, 5:22:00 PM
Alexi Lalas and David Mosse have shared their insights on what they expect from Mauricio Pochettino during this year's 'Camp Cupcake' and which young USMNT players could potentially secure roster spots for the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup. Lalas and Mosse emphasize the importance of Pochettino using 'Camp Cupcake' as an opportunity to test new talent and bring in fresh faces to challenge the core group of players. They highlight that the core group has been together for nearly six years, and it's crucial to introduce new players to prevent complacency and ensure competition for starting roles[1][3]. Some of the young players they believe deserve a chance include Diego Luna, Marlon Fossey, John Tolkin, Paxten Aaronson, and Brian Gutiérrez. These players could provide fresh competition and help the team reach its full potential under Pochettino's management[1]. Pochettino has already shown a willingness to give young players chances, having introduced Mark McKenzie, Gianluca Busio, and Tanner Tessmann to bigger roles. However, Lalas and Mosse stress that more needs to be done to ensure the team is well-prepared for the 2026 World Cup[1][3]. The January camp, also known as 'Camp Cupcake,' will be a critical period for Pochettino to evaluate emerging and domestic-based talent. The coach has made it clear that the quality and productivity of players on the pitch will determine future call-ups, regardless of the league or continent where they play[4]. This approach is a departure from previous regimes, which often emphasized the importance of playing in Europe to gain attention from the USMNT staff. Pochettino's focus on performance rather than league affiliation has instilled optimism and drive among the players, many of whom are experiencing this level for the first time in their careers[4]. Overall, Lalas and Mosse believe that Pochettino must use 'Camp Cupcake' and other upcoming tournaments, such as the Gold Cup, to develop the team and identify the best players for the 2026 World Cup. <br /> <br /> The emphasis on performance and competition will be crucial in the coming months as the USMNT prepares for the 2026 World Cup. With Pochettino at the helm, there is a renewed sense of optimism and a clear focus on developing the team to its full potential. The inclusion of young players and the emphasis on domestic talent could lead to a more competitive and dynamic team, capable of making a strong impact in the World Cup.
1/18/2025, 4:47:00 PM
The stock market may soon receive much-needed support from a surprising source: U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s low popularity rating. This is based on the observation that there is an inverse relationship between presidential approval ratings and the stock market performance in certain contexts. Historical data suggests that when presidential approval ratings are moderately low, the stock market tends to perform well. For instance, research indicates that average S&P 500 market returns have been higher when presidential approval ratings have been moderately below 50% than when they were above 65%[2]. This is because periods of extreme disapproval (under 35%) often correspond with recession or war, which are significant sources of uncertainty for investors. However, when approval ratings are just below 50%, the market tends to be less affected by political outcomes and more by long-term economic trends. This inverse relationship can be attributed to the fact that presidents have limited direct impact on the stock market. Instead, broader macroeconomic factors and policies set by Congress and the Federal Reserve play a more significant role in shaping market sentiment[4]. Therefore, even if President Trump’s approval ratings remain low, the stock market could still benefit from a pro-growth agenda, less regulatory oversight, and potentially lower taxes, which are expected to be part of his administration’s policies[3]. In conclusion, while the relationship between presidential approval ratings and the stock market is complex, historical data suggests that moderately low approval ratings do not necessarily hinder stock market performance. Instead, they can sometimes coincide with strong market returns, especially when broader economic conditions are favorable. <br /> <br /> It is also worth noting that the stock market's performance can influence a president's popularity. A strong or bullish stock market can raise consumer optimism and benefit the incumbent, while a bearish stock market can undermine a president's standing[4]. This dynamic underscores the interconnectedness of political and economic factors, even if the president's direct influence on the stock market is limited.
1/18/2025, 4:44:00 PM
To redeem exclusive content, moviegoers must follow these steps: 1. Purchase a ticket online or in person using a Regal Crown Club account between 12:01 AM ET on January 17 and 11:59 PM ET on February 17. 2. Follow the email instructions sent to the account holder to redeem the code by February 28 at 11:59 PM ET. Here are the detailed steps and requirements: - **Step 1: Purchase a Ticket**<br /> Purchase a ticket online or in person at a Regal theatre using your Regal Crown Club account. This must be done within the specified time frame of January 17 to February 17. - **Step 2: Receive Email Instructions**<br /> After purchasing the ticket, you will receive an email with instructions on how to redeem the exclusive content code. - **Step 3: Redeem the Code**<br /> Follow the instructions in the email to redeem the code by February 28 at 11:59 PM ET. This is a critical step to ensure you receive the exclusive content. Key Points: - The purchase must be made with a Regal Crown Club account. - The purchase window is from January 17 to February 17. - The redemption deadline is February 28 at 11:59 PM ET. By following these steps, Regal Crown Club members can enjoy exclusive content as part of their membership benefits. For more information on the Regal Crown Club, including how to earn and redeem credits, visit the Regal Crown Club website or the Regal mobile app[1][3][5]. The Regal Crown Club offers various rewards, including discounts on concessions, movie tickets, and merchandise, making it a valuable program for frequent moviegoers[2][3]. Ensure you have a registered and active Regal Crown Club account to participate in this offer and to continue earning and redeeming credits for other rewards. Regularly check your email for updates and instructions from Regal to stay informed about exclusive offers and promotions. By participating in the Regal Crown Club, members can enhance their movie-going experience with rewards and exclusive content. Remember to review the Regal Crown Club rules and terms to understand all the benefits and requirements of the program[5]. Enjoy your exclusive content and continue to earn rewards with the Regal Crown Club. For any questions or concerns, contact Regal Cinemas or visit their website for more information. Happy movie-going with Regal Crown Club. <br /> <br />
1/18/2025, 4:27:00 PM
President-elect Donald Trump is set to arrive in Washington on Saturday evening for an inauguration celebration marking his return to power that has been upended by record cold temperatures. The inauguration ceremony, originally planned to take place outdoors on the West Front of the Capitol, has been moved indoors to the Capitol Rotunda due to forecasts of intense cold weather[1][2]. The decision to move the ceremony indoors was made in light of temperatures expected to be in the teens and low 20s on Monday, with windchill factors potentially taking temperatures into severe record lows. Trump expressed his concern for the safety of attendees, stating, "I don’t want to see people hurt, or injured, in any way," on his Truth Social platform[1]. The change in plans will significantly limit the number of attendees who can witness the swearing-in ceremony in person. More than 250,000 guests were ticketed to view the inauguration from around the Capitol grounds, but the vast majority will no longer be able to attend in person due to the indoor venue's limited capacity[1]. <br /> <br /> Alternate plans are being devised to accommodate as many guests as possible. Trump announced that some supporters would be able to watch the ceremony from Washington’s Capital One Arena on Monday, and he plans to visit the arena after his swearing-in to host a modified inaugural parade there[1]. Other inaugural events, including a Sunday rally and three official inaugural balls on Monday night, will proceed as scheduled. The U.S. Secret Service is working with organizers to adapt security plans for the event due to the scheduling changes[1].
1/18/2025, 4:16:00 PM
David Lynch, a visionary filmmaker and artist, has passed away at the age of 78. He was renowned for his groundbreaking television series "Twin Peaks" and influential films like "Blue Velvet," "Mulholland Drive," and "Eraserhead." Lynch's unique approach to storytelling, characterized by surreal and dreamlike qualities, has left an indelible mark on both art and popular culture. His work often explored provocative themes, challenging and captivating audiences worldwide. Throughout his career, Lynch received numerous accolades, including the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement in 2006 and an Honorary Academy Award in 2019. His films have been celebrated for their innovative storytelling and visual style, earning him a reputation as one of the most important filmmakers of his era. Lynch's influence extends beyond film to music, where he collaborated with artists like Angelo Badalamenti and Julee Cruise. His interest in music led to the release of solo albums and work with musicians such as Chrystabell. The news of his passing has elicited an outpouring of grief and admiration from the worlds of film and music. Celebrities and colleagues have taken to social media to pay tribute to Lynch's profound influence on art and culture. Musicians like The Weeknd, Slash, and Billy Corgan have expressed their sorrow over his death, with Corgan describing working with Lynch as a dream-like experience. Filmmakers like Steven Spielberg and Judd Apatow have celebrated Lynch's pioneering contributions to cinema. Lynch's family confirmed the news via a heartfelt Facebook post, underscoring the void left by his absence. His legacy continues to inspire and influence new generations of artists and filmmakers. <br /> <br /> His passing marks the end of an era in filmmaking, but his work will continue to captivate audiences and inspire future generations of artists. The film and music communities have come together to honor his memory and celebrate his enduring impact on art and culture.
1/17/2025, 6:17:25 PM
The use of precise geolocation data and active scanning of device characteristics for identification is a critical component in modern digital advertising. This practice allows advertisers to store and access information on a device, providing personalized ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights, and product development. To achieve this, advertisers often partner with vendors who specialize in geolocation data and device identification. These vendors use various techniques, including geofencing and mobile location history, to gather data on consumers' locations and behaviors[1][4]. Key partners in this ecosystem include: - **Google**: Google works with vendors who are registered for consent under the IAB Europe Transparency and Consent Framework (TCF). This includes purposes such as storing and accessing information on a device, using limited data to select advertising, creating profiles for personalized advertising, and measuring advertising performance[3]. - **AdCellerant**: AdCellerant offers a Geo Fencing product known as Device ID (DID) targeting, which allows advertisers to target devices that have been at specific locations. This is particularly useful for industries such as retail, home improvement, recruitment, restaurants, and auto dealerships[1]. - **Digilant**: Digilant provides geolocation solutions that use GPS and cell towers to pinpoint consumers' current locations. This data is used to create targeted display and video ads that are geographically relevant to the consumer[4]. The use of precise geolocation data and device characteristics for identification is subject to strict privacy regulations. Advertisers must obtain legally valid consent from users for purposes such as storing and accessing information on a device and creating profiles for personalized advertising[3]. In summary, the use of precise geolocation data and active scanning of device characteristics for identification is a powerful tool in digital advertising, allowing for personalized ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights, and product development. However, it must be done in compliance with privacy regulations and with the consent of users. <br /> <br /> Key metrics for measuring the success of these strategies include conversion rates, customer lifetime value, return on ad spend, and user engagement metrics like click-through rates and time spent on site[2][5]. By focusing on these metrics, advertisers can effectively measure the success of their hyper-personalization efforts and make data-driven decisions to drive business growth.
1/17/2025, 6:07:00 PM
Israel and Hamas have reached a significant agreement on a ceasefire deal, marking a crucial step towards ending the prolonged conflict in Gaza. The deal, brokered primarily by Qatar with significant U.S. involvement, was announced by the Prime Minister of Qatar and later confirmed by President Joe Biden in his farewell address[1][2]. The agreement outlines a gradual process to halt fighting in Gaza in exchange for the release of hostages held by Hamas. According to multiple sources, including those within Hamas, Israel, and the White House, the deal involves several phases. Initially, there will be a period of calm to build trust, followed by the release of hostages in batches. The first phase is expected to see the release of 33 hostages, described as humanitarian cases, including those who are elderly, injured, or sick[1]. The deal also includes provisions for Israeli troops to pull back from population centers in Gaza, establish a buffer zone around the Gaza Strip, release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, and allow more aid into the Gaza Strip. The initial phase could take up to 42 days, and if successful, it would lead to the release of all remaining hostages, including soldiers and military personnel[1]. This development comes after more than a year of brutal fighting in the Middle East, which began with a Hamas terror attack that killed over 1,200 people in Israel and led to Israel's massive retaliation, resulting in over 46,000 deaths in Gaza and a humanitarian crisis[1]. The full text of the hostage-ceasefire agreement has been made available, detailing the terms and conditions of the deal[3]. <br /> <br /> The agreement is seen as a historic moment that could potentially end the conflict and alleviate the suffering of the people in Gaza. However, there is still a lot of room for things to go wrong, and the implementation of the deal will be closely watched by international observers.
1/17/2025, 5:48:00 PM