Author Archives: usastoriespro.com

Canary Islands holiday weather warning as Tenerife hit with storms

Posted on by
Reply

Canary Islands holiday weather warning as Tenerife hit with storms

Canary Islands • Meteorology • Tenerife • Weather warning

Tenerife and La Palma Face Weather Warning, Posing Potential Disruption for British Tourists in the Canary Islands.

The Canary Islands of Tenerife and La Palma are currently under a weather warning, signaling possible adverse conditions for British holidaymakers. The prominent Spanish destination is commencing the week with a cautionary notice issued by the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) for wind concerns in Tenerife and La Palma.

Effective from 6 pm on Monday, January 15, the yellow warning encompasses the entirety of La Palma. Northern Tenerife, particularly high areas and central summits, is anticipated to bear the brunt of the warning. The wind advisory is set to escalate to an orange level on Tuesday, persisting until at least 9 pm.

Gusts reaching speeds of 90 km/h are projected for La Palma and elevated regions of Tenerife. The remainder of Tenerife will be subject to a yellow weather warning on Tuesday. Additionally, Gran Canaria, La Gomera, and El Hierro will fall under a yellow weather warning on Tuesday, January 16.

Aemet has extended its caution to include a yellow weather warning for rain in La Palma on Tuesday, with an expected precipitation rate of 15mm per hour in certain areas of the island

END OF ARTICLE

Also read: Swiss Officials Grapple with Skyrocketing Davos Hotel Prices

Swiss officialdom squeezed by high-priced Davos hotel rooms

Posted on by
1

Swiss Officials Grapple with Skyrocketing Davos Hotel Prices

The exorbitant cost of booking hotel rooms in Davos during the World Economic Forum (WEF) has left Swiss authorities feeling the pinch of financial strain. A recent report from the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs, highlighted by NZZ am Sonntag, reveals that room expenses in Davos during the WEF surpass government-regulated thresholds by a staggering 140% to 408%, depending on the security zones.

In response, the Swiss government is implementing cost-cutting measures, with last year’s CHF116,065 ($136,140) expenditure on overnight stays for the official delegation prompting a mandate for a smaller delegation. Some members will even be staying in Chur, 50 kilometers from Davos, for the first time. To further economize, senior officials will share rooms during the event.

Additionally, efforts to streamline the WEF experience include a reduction in side events, addressing concerns that led to threats of the forum leaving Davos in 2020. Changes in municipal regulations, as noted by WEF Managing Director Alois Zwinggi, have alleviated the issue of unrelated events proliferating alongside the WEF.

Zwinggi acknowledged the challenge of balancing WEF’s presence with the interests of Davos residents, stating, “Last year had its difficulties, but this year, we successfully communicated the long-term consequences if the situation didn’t improve. Thankfully, things are back on track, and our relationship with the hotels is returning to normal.”

END OF ARTICLE

Also read: Bill Gates Drops Mind-Blowing Revelation: The Unbelievable Ways AI Will Transform Your Life in Just 5 Years!

Bill Gates Drops Mind-Blowing Revelation: The Unbelievable Ways AI Will Transform Your Life in Just 5 Years!

Posted on by
2

Bill Gates Drops Mind-Blowing Revelation: The Unbelievable Ways AI Will Transform Your Life in Just 5 Years!

Pics by Pixels.com

In a bold prediction, Bill Gates envisions artificial intelligence revolutionizing our lives in the next five years. Despite concerns about AI causing job losses globally, Gates acknowledges the historical pattern where initial fears give way to new opportunities.

Drawing parallels to the agricultural shift in 1900, Gates points out that, just as new job categories emerged then, AI will bring about positive transformations. In an interview with CNN’s Fareed Zakaria, Gates anticipates AI streamlining tasks, such as doctors’ paperwork, making processes more efficient and beneficial. He highlights that AI accessibility won’t demand significant new hardware, as it can be seamlessly integrated into existing devices like phones and PCs.

Gates is particularly enthusiastic about the advancements in OpenAI’s ChatGPT-4, noting its ability to essentially read and write, resembling a white-collar worker. He sees potential applications in education and healthcare, envisioning AI as a tutor, health advisor, code writer, and technical support resource.

As Microsoft maintains a multibillion-dollar partnership with OpenAI, Gates emphasizes the Gates Foundation’s commitment to minimizing the gap between benefiting people in poor countries and those in wealthier nations, addressing critical shortages of doctors and teachers, especially in regions like Africa.

While Gates remains optimistic about AI’s potential for positive change, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) expresses concerns in a recent report, warning that without political intervention, AI could deepen societal inequality.

Giving away his wealth

With a net worth of $140 billion, Bill Gates holds the position of the fourth-richest individual globally, as reported by Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index. Remarkably, he would likely secure the title of the world’s wealthiest person if he hadn’t committed to the altruistic cause of giving away his entire fortune.

In an interview with CNN, Bill Gates expressed his indifference towards the potential loss of his wealth, stating, “I have more than enough money for my own consumption.” When questioned about the progress of his philanthropic endeavors, he shared, “I’m getting myself to go down the list, and I’ll be proud when I fall off altogether.”

Bill Gates, along with his former wife, Melinda French Gates, has made a steadfast commitment to donate the vast majority of their wealth to the foundation they jointly established two decades ago, in addition to supporting various other charitable initiatives. In a bold move, Bill Gates announced in 2022 that the foundation aims to contribute $9 billion annually by 2026, expressing excitement about the significant impact it will have on the organizations receiving the funds.

Collaborating with partners like Warren Buffett, Bill Gates has already channeled approximately $100 billion into his foundation. With an annual giving rate of $9 billion, Gates foresees completing the process of giving away his entire fortune within the next two decades.

END OF ARTICLE

Also read : Apple News adds new features for US Election 2024

Apple News adds new features for US Election 2024

Posted on by
1

Apple News adds new features for US Election 2024

Pics by Official Twitter Handle of Apple News

Revolutionizing the Game: Apple News Unleashes Jaw-Dropping Features for the Ultimate 2024 U.S. Presidential Election Experience!

New Apple News Live features

Discover the Power of Apple News in Election 2024: Experience Live Updates at Your Fingertips!

In a recent breakthrough, the Apple News app has introduced Live Activities support for iPhones running on the cutting-edge iOS 16. Imagine having real-time updates right on your lock screen or in the Dynamic Island on your iPhone 14 Pro! During the recent Republican Iowa caucuses on January 15, Apple News editors utilized Live Activities to bring you up-to-the-minute delegate count percentages as the results unfolded, as reported by Apple Insider. Now, you have the option to follow specific election-related stories and witness the excitement unfold.

Even the world’s most popular news app is getting a personal touch! The dedicated Election 2024 section has been enhanced with new personalization options. Choose your preferred news sources, topics, candidates, and even region-specific coverage to populate the “For You” section with stories tailored just for you.

And that’s not all – for those who prefer to listen, Apple News+ subscribers and Apple One Premier members can access audio versions of articles right within the app. Tune in to the daily Apple News Today podcast for a quick 10-minute summary of the top stories or explore Apple News Narrated, a dedicated feed where selected articles are read aloud.

With months still to go, anticipate even more election-centric features coming your way. But for now, kickstart your journey by installing the latest iOS 16 update and diving into the specially curated election section on Apple News – your ultimate hub for tracking caucus developments. Don’t miss out on staying informed in the most engaging way possible!

What other news apps are out there?

The news app market is a competitive space and Apple has several rivals who will also want a bigger slice of the election traffic pie.

Google News, Flipboard, SmartNews, Feedly, and Pulse Reader are some of the most popular alternatives to Apple News for iOS users.

Google News offers personalized news with cross-platform availability, Flipboard has a magazine-style interface for custom feeds, SmartNews uses AI for intelligent curation while Feedly focuses specifically on RSS feeds rather than general news sources and Pulse Reader is known for readability and topic customization. While no competitor matches Apple News’ iOS integration, each provides something for users wanting alternatives for news aggregation.

END OF ARTICLE

Also read;

7 Best & Totally Free AI Photo Editors to Make Your Pictures Awesome

7 Best & Totally Free AI Photo Editors to Make Your Pictures Awesome

Posted on by
2

7 Best & Totally Free AI Photo Editors to Make Your Pictures Awesome

Need to edit your pictures but can’t afford crazy expensive software? No worries! There are tons of artificial intelligence (AI) powered photo editors online that are 100% FREE and super easy to use. Just a few clicks and your pics will be looking hotter than fire.

In this article, I’ma introduce you to the best free AI photo editors around. Learn how to tweak your snaps automatically with magical tools. Level up your picture game even if you know nothing about photo editing. Impress your friends by making your photos pop like a graphics pro. Scroll down to get the complete 411.

1. Canva – A Photo Editor So Simple Your Grandma Can Use It

So first up on our list is Canva. This popular app has all the tools to make your photos shine in seconds. We’re talking about auto fixes for color, brightness and more with 1 click. Plus Canva has this crazy “Magic Edit” feature that lets you tell the AI exactly what to change in your pic.

Here’s how it works:

● Upload your snap

● Click the Magic Edit button

● Type what you want to edit (e.g. “Make the sky more blue” or “Whitening teeth”)

● Use the brush tool to paint over the areas to transform

● Boom! Canva’s AI brain works its magic for you

How easy is that? No complicated menus or settings to worry about. In a snap you can have celeb-worthy teeth or epic colorful skies. Even your grandma could figure this app out!

Plus everything on Canva is 100% free. You don’t have to pay a single penny to be a picture editing wizard.

2. Autoenhance.ai – Trick Everyone That You’re a Pro Photographer

Next up is Autoenhance.ai. The name says it all. This website makes your photos look professionally touched up without any effort from you. I’m talking about magazine cover level images with just a few clicks.

It uses AI to instantly fix 3 common issues:

● Bland skies – Automatically replaced with vivid colors

● Weird perspectives – Makes buildings/objects look straight

● Bad lighting – Brightens dark areas and evens things out

Not only that but Autoenhance can also handle tricky stuff like relighting HDR photos. Making snapshots worthy of plastering on billboards around town.

The basic version is 100% free and lets you transform 15 images. If you need more there are affordable paid plans too. Either way your pics will make your friends think you’ve been studying photography for years, lol.

3. LunaPic – For Artsy Fartsy Photo Effects

Feeling creative? LunaPic is the free AI editor for you. This tool adds awesome artistic effects with some futuristic tech power. We’re talking about:

● Psychedelic and impressionist filters

● Glitch effects that look super cyberpunk

● Smooth gradients for color splash images

● Even animated GIFs and video filters

I don’t know about you but I think the glitch tool is just chef’s kiss. Makes your photos look like they came straight outta Blade Runner or Cyberpunk 2077. Super dope.

Plus LunaPic works as a Chrome extension too for fast editing right in your browser. Just upload any snap and the AI brain transforms it automatically.

You also get extra options to tweak stuff like:

● Light levels ● Rotating/flipping ● Cropping ● Text captions ● Background removal

Everything you could want for artsy, weird and wonderful picture edits completely free!

4. Pixlr – Perfect for Quick Fixes of Basic Photos

Now Pixlr may not be as smart as our earlier AI tools but it still gets the job done. Offering speedy automated edits covering the basics like:

● Color changes

● Adding cool filters

● Background swaps

● Building neat collages

● And other tweaks

It’s kinda like a lighter version of Photoshop but with no crazy complicated options or price tag. Just simple touch ups anyone can handle.

Oh and Pixlr lets you access files directly from cloud storage like Google Drive too. Making it great for minor changes when you’re on the move.

While the basic app is free, upgrading to premium gives you extra assets. We’re talking an unlimited supply of overlays, borders, textures and more for next level edits. But the free version works fine for most users.

5. Google Photos – Convenient Built-In Photo Editor

Now this ain’t a tool specially built for editing. But Google Photos does have some automated AI photo tweaks that can spice up dull images fast. Especially handy for Android peeps who already use Google Photos to store pics.

It lets you auto adjust:

● Lighting – Making things brighter or darker

● Contrast balance

● Colors etc

Or pick from loads of fun effects like black & white, vintage, drama and more.

While Google Photos editor is kinda basic, it’s crazy convenient for quick edits to so-so smartphone snaps. And being built right into your cloud storage app makes it super streamlined.

6. iPiccy – Feature Filled Editor with Over 100 Effects

iPiccy is one of the most full on free AI photo editors out there. We’re talking about:

● Over 100 art filters

● Collage making tools

● Graphic design elements

● Exposure and color correction

● Detail enhancing

● Backdrop changes

And that barely scratches the surface! It’s got so many features you’d expect from premium software costing 100 bucks a year. All totally free for you to use.

ipiccy also works great on phones. Allowing you to edit on the move for instant social media worthy pictures. And you can save your hot photos online too by registering an account. Pretty neat!

7. YouCam Enhance – Simple Sharpness and Brightness Booster

Last but not least is YouCam Enhance. Don’t expect lots of fancy filters or anything with this app. YouCam focuses on fundamentals, automatically:

● Sharpening fuzzy images

● Increasing brightness

● Reducing noise

● Generally enhancing pictures

It shows side by side comparisons so you can preview changes precisely with the handy before/after slider. And uses AI algorithms to optimize every upload for ya without complicating things.

YouCam may only perform basic edits but it nails the essentials. Making it fantastic for a quick tune up of any drab photos in your camera roll.

Final Words – Everyone Can Edit Photos Like a Pro Now

The world has changed, my friends. Once only graphics professionals could take dull images and transform them into visual art. But with today’s crazy good AI photo editors, now anyone can make magical edits for free!

It doesn’t matter if you don’t know the difference between JPEG and PNG files. All you need is a few clicks with the futuristic AI brains featured above. Adjust brightness, swap backgrounds, add sick filters and way more to level up your pictures instantly.

Canva, Autoenhance, LunaPic and all our recommended apps put the power in your hands. For stunning photos that will wow your Instagram followers without wasting money on expensive software or classes.

So what are you waiting for? Start editing your snaps with AI superpowers right now and shock people with your suddenly pro-tier picture taking abilities, lol. Become an Instagram influencing rockstar as the compliments roll in. You got this!

END OF ARTICLE

Also read: Top 10 AI Art Generators: Transform Your Photos into Masterpieces

HP OMEN Transcend 14 2024: Review, Specs, and Price

Posted on by
1

HP OMEN Transcend 14 2024: Review, Specs, and Price

Pics by HP

HP OMEN Transcend 14 2024: Striking the Perfect Balance Between Performance and Portability

Unveiling the HP OMEN Transcend 14 2024: Acknowledging user feedback, HP introduces a lightweight addition to the renowned OMEN series. Combining portability with robust gaming performance, this article delves into the specifications, review, and pricing details of the HP OMEN Transcend 14 2024.”

Here is the HP OMEN Transcend 14 2024 Review with Specs and Price

HP OMEN Transcend 14 2024: Embracing Portability

 

In a commitment fulfilled from 2023, HP introduces the OMEN Transcend 14, a 14-inch laptop designed for ultimate portability. At a mere 19 mm (0.7 inches) thickness and a lightweight 1637g (3.6lb), it defies the stereotype of hefty gaming laptops, offering a refreshing lightness without compromising on display quality.

Unveiling the Power Within: HP OMEN Transcend 14 Specs

 

Despite its compact size, the OMEN Transcend 14 packs a powerful punch with gaming-grade specifications. Featuring an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor, Nvidia RTX 4070 graphics, 32GB of high-speed LPDDR5X memory, and a stunning 14” 2.8K 120Hz HDR OLED display, this laptop ensures a seamless gaming and content creation experience. The potent combination of RTX 4070 and i9 makes it ideal for gamers and students alike, handling 4K editing, gaming, coding, and more without any lag. The OLED screen enhances the visual experience with perfect blacks, rapid response, vibrant brightness, and a wide color gamut.

HP OMEN Transcend 14 Hardware: A Portable Beast

 

The lethal combination of i9 and RTX 4070 in a lightweight form factor underscores the OMEN Transcend 14’s versatility for both work and play. With WiFi 7 and Intel’s Arc graphics with NPU for AI workloads, HP prioritizes top-notch specifications in an ultra-light design, ensuring that performance is not compromised despite the laptop’s weight.

Enhanced Functionality: OMEN Transcend 14 Keyboard and Touchpad

 

The OMEN Transcend 14 features a sleek aluminum body without flashy RGB effects, but it compensates with a unique RGB keyboard adorned with HyperX pudding-style keycaps. The transparent edging of the keys enhances the vibrant colors, providing an appealing and comfortable typing experience. The RGB keyboard can be customized through the OMEN Gaming Hub software, adding a touch of personalization to your gaming setup. The responsive touchpad further elevates the overall user experience.

Connectivity and Charging: Practicality Meets Simplicity

 

Balancing practicality and simplicity, the OMEN Transcend 14 offers a 3.5mm audio combo jack on the right side and two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports on the left. The back houses a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port and an HDMI 2.1 output, catering to diverse connectivity needs. Charging the laptop is made convenient with the smaller 140-watt Type-C charger, capable of bringing the 6-cell 71Wh battery to 50% in just 30 minutes. It’s important to note that the smaller charger comes with an 80-watt limitation on GPU power, providing a well-rounded charging and connectivity experience.

HP OMEN Transcend 14 Price

HP OMEN Transcend 12 price will be around $1500 bucks in the US.

In Short: HP OMEN Transcend 14 2024: Review, Specs, and Price

Conclusion

 

The OMEN Transcend 14 is a lightweight beast but the performance is a heavy weight. It promises a smooth gaming or content creation experience with its advanced specifications, stunning appearance, and intuitive design that is suitable for any user. OMEN Transcend 14 will help you to transcend borders and release your creativity or gaming skills anywhere, anytime. So, this was the HP OMEN Transcend 14 2024 review with specs and price.

END OF ARTICLE

Also read ;

Top 10 AI Art Generators: Transform Your Photos into Masterpieces

Top 10 AI Art Generators: Transform Your Photos into Masterpieces

Posted on by
2

Top 10 AI Art Generators: Transform Your Photos into Masterpieces

Pics by PEXELS.COM

Embark on a journey of artistic exploration as we delve into the captivating world of AI art generators. These cutting-edge platforms wield the magic of artificial intelligence to seamlessly transform your ordinary photos into breathtaking masterpieces in a matter of seconds. Join us as we explore the top 10 AI art generators, each promising to elevate your images to new artistic heights.

The Enchanting World of AI Artwork

Imagine the thrill of witnessing your mundane snapshots morph into exquisite works of art reminiscent of Rembrandt or Van Gogh. The internet is abuzz with the excitement surrounding AI art generators, and for a good reason. These futuristic tools leverage the power of artificial intelligence to breathe life into your photos, offering a mesmerizing experience that unfolds in mere seconds.

Our quest was to unveil the crème de la crème among AI art generators, those capable of turning your photos into personalized masterpieces. As we share our discoveries, you’ll witness the transformative journey these platforms took our photos on, each with its unique flair.

Top 10 AI Art Generators

To fairly assess the leading contenders, we subjected each to the same photograph, evaluating them based on criteria such as ease of use, style options, free vs. paid credits, and overall art quality. Our journey led us through a spectrum of experiences, with some generators showcasing more prowess than others.

Exploring the Leading AI Art Generators: A Comprehensive Review

1. AILabTools Editor – Simplified yet Limited

AILab Tools kickstarts our exploration with an effortless interface that swiftly transforms photos into art. Featuring 9 artistic filter presets and convenient Photo Enhancement tools, including AI Portrait mode and Background Remover, the platform excels in user-friendliness.

Pricing: Free credits amount to 5 per month, while paid plans start at $4.99 for 50 credits.
Pros: Extremely user-friendly.
Cons: Limited artistic options and free credits. The styles may feel basic without detailed prompts.

2.  Artguru – A Gateway for Art Creation

As an ideal introductory AI art platform, Artguru caters to beginners with both style and text prompts. Its clean, minimal interface ensures an intuitive image transformation experience.

Pricing: Free users enjoy 8 credits daily, while paid plans include Mini at $1.99 per week (100 credits) and Pro at $3.99 per week (400 credits).
Pros: Simple operation with a nice interface.
Cons: Inconsistent handling of people photos.

3. BeFunky – Full-Featured Editor with Artistic Flair

BeFunky stands out as a comprehensive photo editor featuring a dedicated photo-to-art tool. The interface seamlessly navigates through 10 AI artistic options, complemented by bonus effects and an intensity slider for enhanced control.

Pricing: Unlimited free credits with watermarks; Paid plans include Annual Plus at $71.80 (50% off) and Monthly Plus at $11.99.
Pros: Diverse style choices and filters.
Cons: Watermarks in the free version may be a drawback.

4.DreamStudio by Stability AI – Creative Freedom Unleashed

Departing from predefined filters, DreamStudio embraces direct text prompts for limitless creativity. Features like the ratio converter and the ability to produce multiple variations enhance the artistic journey.

Pricing: Free credits include 25 per account, with a cost of $1 per 100 credits.
Pros: Direct prompting for vast creative control.
Cons: Complex generations may incur higher credit costs.

5. Fotor – Customization Meets Filters

Fotor, primarily a photo editor, extends its capabilities to art generation through filters and custom prompts. The intensity slider ensures a balance between effects and the original photograph.

Pricing: Free version offers 300 credits per month; Paid plans start at $2.99 per month.

Pros: Numerous style filters and custom prompts.
Cons: Free version includes watermarks and hazy/blurry effects, limiting creativity.

6. FY! Studio – Niche Art for Home Decor Enthusiasts

Specializing in home decor, FY! Studio offers art prints produced using AI image technology. While providing unlimited generations for premium users, its focus on interior design may limit broader artistic capabilities.
Pricing: Up to 3 photo generations weekly for free; Unlimited plan at $5 monthly.
Pros: Unlimited generations with the ability to sell art on the platform.
Cons: A simplistic art generator with inconsistent handling of portrait photos.

7. InstaPainting – AI Art Meets Print-on-Demand

Positioned as an on-demand marketplace, InstaPainting seamlessly connects AI art creation with print-on-demand merchandise. Despite limitations in fine art controls, it excels in creating visually stunning art pieces.
Pricing: No free credits; Full platform features accessible during Demo mode.
Pros: Experiment freely with countless images during Demo.
Cons: Limited built-in controls for fine art photo effects.

8. Midjourney – The Rising Star of AI Art

Gaining rapid dominance, Midjourney has earned a reputation for imaginative and technically impeccable AI art compositions. Through text prompts and modifiers, it offers unbound potential for transforming photography into personalized artistic visions.
Pricing: Free credits include 25 per account; Monthly subscriptions start at $10, with a Standard Plan at $30 monthly ($24 with an annual subscription) offering unlimited generations.
Pros: Arguably the most advanced AI art platform; Produces highly creative, photo-realistic fine art; Regular updates.
Cons: Requires a Discord account; Steeper learning curve.

9. NightCafe – Flexible Control with Multiple AI Models

NightCafe empowers users to choose between various AI art generator models, each with distinct strengths. While lacking prompt support, the platform offers flexibility in painting styles and blending options.
Pricing: Free credits include 5 per day, with 2 additional daily for voting in challenges; Paid plans start from $5.99 per month.
Pros: Numerous advanced AI models to select between.
Cons: Costs may accumulate quickly depending on options selected.

10. Picsart – Editing and Decent Art Generation

Operating as an expansive photo editor, Picsart incorporates AI art conversion as an additional feature. While boasting robust editing features, its fine art transformation filters may be limited.

Pricing: 50 monthly free credits with a subscription; Credit packs start at 1,000 credits for $10.
Pros: Robust editing features like background removal.
Cons: Limited filters for fine art transformation.

Contemplating the Victor: Does Anyone Outshine Midjourney?

 

After an in-depth exploration of the top 10 AI art platforms, the unequivocal champion emerges: Midjourney. Setting the gold standard, Midjourney combines creativity, technical excellence, and flexibility through text prompts, standing as the pinnacle for transforming diverse source images into personalized masterpieces.

As you embark on your AI art journey, consider the unique strengths and limitations of each platform. Unleash the power of Midjourney or explore alternatives to witness the magic of AI turning your photos into unparalleled works of art. The creative realm is in your hands – seize the opportunity!

END OF ARTICLE

Also read; Explained: What is crypto phishing scam and how you can stay safe

 

National Hat Day 2024: Uncover History, Best Wishes, and Everything You Need to Know About This Unique January 15 Celebration!

Posted on by
Reply

National Hat Day 2024: Uncover History, Best Wishes, and Everything You Need to Know About This Unique January 15 Celebration!

People generally observe National Hat Day by wearing their favorite hat to celebrate an occupation or an era.

Pics by Pexels.com

This National Hat Day, let’s celebrate in style. This January 15 is your opportunity to flaunt your favourite fedora, cap, cloche, derby, or sunhat, or show off your best tuque, stocking cap, or beanie. 

This January 15 is your opportunity to flaunt your favourite fedora, cap, cloche, derby, or sunhat, or show off your best tuque, stocking cap, or beanie.

People generally observe National Hat Day by wearing their favourite hat to celebrate an occupation or an era. For example, hats may denote one’s nationality in the military. Hats also indicated social status in the Middle Ages. 

History of National Hat Day

National Hat Day has been observed in libraries, schools, and museums since at least 1983. Patrons and students would wear their favourite hats to mark the day. Even patrol officers, postal workers, and restaurant servicers wore different types of hats to various events. 

Notably, back in 1971, the first top hat, created by haberdasher John Hetherington, made its appearance in court on this day. It is said to have caused a riot when he wore it in public for the first time. 

National Hat Day messages and wishes

If you wish to mark the day by sharing some fun messages with your friends and family, here are some ideas for you.

“Wishing you a fantastic National Hat Day, filled with great style and plenty of fun!”

“May your National Hat Day be as stylish as you are! Here’s to celebrating with some fantastic headwear.”

“Happy National Hat Day! Here’s to celebrating with fabulous headwear and making every day a little more stylish.”

“Sending lots of love and happy National Hat Day wishes your way! May you have a fabulous day filled with great hats and good times.”

Happy National Hat Day! Time to bust out your favourite chapeau and show it off.”

“Don’t let a bad hair day ruin your style – throw on a hat and rock it! Happy National Hat Day!”

“Hats off to National Hat Day! Whether it’s a baseball cap or a fancy fedora, any excuse to rock a hat is a good one.”

END OF ARTICLE

Also read : Stay safe on WhatsApp: 10 tips to avoid avoid WhatsApp scams

The Houthi Are a Foreign Terrorist Organization, and Here’s What Biden-Blinken Team Should Do About It

Posted on by
Reply

The Houthi Are a Foreign Terrorist Organization, and Here’s What Biden-Blinken Team Should Do About It

Who are the Houthis, and why are we at war with them? Houthi Movement

For more than two and a half years, the United States has been supporting Saudi Arabia in a conflict against the Houthi movement in Yemen. This war has resulted in the most severe humanitarian crisis globally, with the looming threat of it evolving into the largest famine in decades. Surprisingly, very few Americans are familiar with who the Houthis are, their principles, and why they are considered de facto adversaries. what is Houthi movement?

Throughout two administrations, the support for the war against the Houthis has lacked a concerted effort to elucidate to the American public why they should perceive the Houthis as enemies. Yemeni politics are intricate and unstable, making it crucial for the United States and its allies to avoid getting entangled in a conflict with an adversary about whom they have limited knowledge. Instead, there is a pressing need for a sincere commitment to finding a political resolution to the complex situation in Yemen.

What you need to know

First and foremost, the Houthis belong to the Zaydi Shiite community, known as Zaydiyyah. Shiite Muslims constitute a minority within the Islamic world, and Zaydis represent a distinct minority within the Shiite branch, characterized by significant doctrinal and belief differences from the predominant Shiite groups found in Iran, Iraq, and other regions, often referred to as Twelvers due to their belief in twelve Imams.

The term Zaydiyyah is derived from Zayd bin Ali, the great-grandson of Ali, Muhammad’s cousin and son-in-law, revered by all Shiites. Zayd bin Ali played a pivotal role in a rebellion against the Umayyad Empire in 740, marking the first dynastic empire in Islamic history, with its seat of power in Damascus. Zayd, who met martyrdom in his uprising, is believed to have his head interred in a shrine dedicated to him in Kerak, Jordan. Zaydis view him as an exemplar of a virtuous caliph who should have ruled in lieu of the Umayyads.

Notably, the Houthis have prominently positioned the fight against corruption as a central element of their political agenda, at least in principle.

Zayd, known for resisting a corrupt regime, is revered by both Sunnis and Shiites as a righteous figure. The Zaydi sect views him as a symbol in the fight against corruption, a principle the Houthis nominally prioritize in their political agenda. Unlike Twelver Shiites, Zaydis reject the concept of ayatollahs and do not practice taqqiyah.

Established in the ninth century in North Yemen’s rugged mountains, Zaydi followers engaged in a millennium-long struggle for control, facing Ottomans and Wahhabis in the 18th and 19th centuries. After the Ottoman Empire’s collapse in 1918, the Mutawakkilite Kingdom, led by a Zaydi imam, took power in North Yemen. They lost territory to Saudi Arabia in the 1930s but retained international recognition as North Yemen’s legitimate government, with their capital in Taiz.

In 1962, a revolutionary military group, backed by Egypt, toppled the Mutawakkilite king, establishing an Arab nationalist government in Sanaa. With Soviet support, Egypt deployed tens of thousands of troops to endorse the republican coup. Zaydi Royalists sought refuge in the mountains near the Saudi border, sparking a civil war. Saudi Arabia and even Israel covertly supported the Royalists. The conflict concluded in a republican triumph after Saudi and Egyptian interests shifted following the 1967 war with Israel.

Ali Abdullah Saleh, a Zaydi republican general, ascended to power in 1978 after a series of coups. Over the next 33 years, Saleh ruled Yemen, overseeing its unification in 1990 and navigating through conflicts such as the 1991 Kuwait war and a Saudi-backed civil war in 1994. Despite complex relations with Riyadh and Washington, Saleh aligned himself with both against al-Qaida in the late 1990s. The 2000 al-Qaida attack on the USS Cole in Aden brought the Americans closer to Saleh, even though his collaboration against al-Qaida remained incomplete.

The Houthis emerged as a Zaydi resistance to Saleh and his corruption in the 1990s led by a charismatic leader named Hussein al Houthi, from whom they are named. They charged Saleh with massive corruption to steal the wealth of the Arab world’s poorest country for his own family, much like other Arab dictators in Tunisia, Egypt, and Syria. They also criticized Saudi and American backing for the dictator.

The war

In January 2015, after months of gradual advancement, the rebel alliance successfully took control of the capital Sanaa, coinciding with King Salman’s ascent to the throne in Riyadh. The Houthis established direct civilian air traffic between Sanaa and Tehran, while Iran pledged economical oil for Yemen, fueling speculations of increased Iran-Houthi collaboration. Hodeidah, the main port, fell to Houthi forces, and they began advancing towards Aden, the southern capital and the largest port on the Indian Ocean.

For King Salman and his 29-year-old defense minister and son, Prince Muhammad bin Salman (MBS), it became a nightmarish scenario. A traditional adversary with ties to their regional opponent was seizing control of the country in their southern domain. The strategic Bab al Mandab straits could fall under Houthi control, presenting a formidable challenge for the inexperienced team in the royal palace.

The Obama administration faced a complex situation. American intelligence officials claimed that Iran was initially discouraging the Houthis from seizing Sanaa and overthrowing Hadi openly. However, the Houthi leadership, intoxicated with success, proceeded with their radical course. Undersecretary of Defense Michael Vickers stated in January that Washington had a productive informal intelligence relationship with the Houthis against al-Qaida, suggesting the potential for continued cooperation.

To counter the Houthi-Saleh rebellion and support Hadi, the Saudis initiated Operation Decisive Storm in March 2015, with MBS publicly promising an early victory. They formed a coalition with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and other traditional allies, but Oman and Pakistan refused to join. Despite unanimous opposition in Pakistan’s parliament, the Obama administration backed the Saudi war, siding with a long-standing 70-year alliance. U.S. and U.K. support proved crucial for the Royal Saudi Air Force, equipped with American and British aircraft, which extensively used their munitions in the conflict.

Nearly three years later, the Saudi air and naval blockade in Houthi-controlled areas has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis, placing millions of Yemenis at risk of starvation and disease. The Saudi-led coalition has intensified the blockade, gaining more territory over time, yet Hadi exerts minimal control over the recovered regions and resides in Riyadh. Accusations of war crimes are leveled against all parties involved.

This month, Saleh severed ties with his supposed ally, signaling a shift in allegiance to Riyadh, only to be killed days later. Although the Houthis secured Sanaa, they find themselves isolated from Yemeni politics and political parties. While Riyadh depicts them as Iranian puppets, many Yemenis view them as patriots resisting Saudi Arabia, seen as the traditional enemy and an ally of America and Israel. Houthi propaganda emphasizes a narrative of Yemen under attack by a Saudi-American-Israeli conspiracy.

The conflict has pushed the Houthis closer to Iran and Hezbollah, as highlighted by U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley’s recent presentation of evidence pointing to Iranian support for Houthi missile attacks on Saudi and Emirati targets. Facing constant aerial bombardment, the Houthis are launching missiles at Riyadh and Abu Dhabi with Tehran’s technological assistance. The war’s monthly cost to Tehran is a few million dollars, compared to Riyadh’s staggering $6 billion.

While Tehran and the Houthis tread on dangerous ground, a missile strike on Riyadh, Jeddah, or Abu Dhabi leading to significant casualties could intensify pressure for retaliation against Iran. The Trump administration, ill-equipped to provide measured guidance, adds to the complexity. Understanding the intricacies of Yemeni politics and its volatility is essential. The administration’s recent call to ease the blockade signals a need for a serious pursuit of a political solution rather than further entanglement in a war Americans scarcely comprehend.

Why have the Houthis attacked Red Sea ships?

The attacks began after the start of the Israel-Hamas war on 7 October. The Houthis declared their support for Hamas and said they would target any ship travelling to Israel. It is not clear that all of the ships attacked were actually heading there. In November they seized what they said was an Israeli cargo ship.

They since have attacked several commercial vessels with drones and ballistic missiles.

Houthi attacks in the Red Sea have increased 500% between November and December. The threat has become so great that major shipping companies have ceased sailing in the region and insurance costs have risen 10-fold since early December.

Major shipping firms including Mediterranean Shipping Company, Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd and the oil company BP have all said they are diverting vessels away from the Red Sea.

The fear is that fuel prices will rise and supply chains will be damaged. Almost 15% of global seaborne trade passes through the Red Sea, which is linked to the Mediterranean by the Suez canal and is the shortest shipping route between Europe and Asia.

Washington has accused Iran of being “deeply involved” in planning operations against commercial vessels in the Red Sea.

END OF ARTICLE

Also read:

Bill Belichick, Patriots mutually agree to part ways after 24 seasons in 2024

 

 

Paul Thomas Anderson and Warner Bros join forces for an upcoming film set to shoot this year, featuring an impressive cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, and Regina Hall.

Posted on by
Reply

Paul Thomas Anderson and Warner Bros join forces for an upcoming film, featuring an impressive cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, and Regina Hall.

Pics by Getty Images

Warner Bros has teamed up with the renowned Paul Thomas Anderson for an upcoming film featuring none other than Oscar winners Leonardo DiCaprio and Sean Penn, along with the talented Regina Hall. The film, currently without a title, is set to commence production this year in California. Anderson, the brilliant mind behind the project, not only wrote the script but will also produce the film alongside Sara Murphy and Adam Somner.

The details of the film are being kept under wraps, with the logline a closely guarded secret. What we do know is that it’s set in a contemporary backdrop and marks Anderson’s most commercial endeavor to date, backed by a corresponding budget. This collaboration stems from the successful partnership formed during the making of Anderson’s last film, “Licorice Pizza,” a venture that garnered three Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Best Screenplay, and Best Director for Anderson.

While DiCaprio, Penn, and Hall take the lead, the film promises a stellar ensemble cast, a territory Anderson has masterfully navigated before with projects like “Boogie Nights.” This film is a significant milestone for Warner Bros, adding to their recent ventures like the strategic alliance with Tom Cruise and projects such as the Paul Greengrass-helmed adaptation of T.J. Newman’s bestselling novel “Drowning: The Rescue of Flight 421.”

For DiCaprio, fresh from the acclaim of “Killers of the Flower Moon,” and Penn, starring in the well-received “Daddio” and the upcoming “Gonzo Girl,” this film marks another high-profile collaboration. Regina Hall, known for her diverse roles, adds her star power to the mix.

This announcement not only signals a new and promising chapter for Warner Bros but also underscores their commitment to challenging narratives and top-tier talent. With 2023 presenting its share of challenges, this project, along with other strategic moves, positions Warner Bros to reshape its narrative in the industry. Stay tuned for more updates as this cinematic journey unfolds.

END OF ARTICLE

Also read: Upgrade Your Android Experience: Get Ready to Make ChatGPT Your Go-To Assistant!