Sunday, December 22, 2024

Runway shut after emergency during landing at Belfast City Airport

Pictures appear to the show a plane with its nose touching the runway after a wheel collapse.

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Saturday, December 21, 2024

GOP Rep-elect outlines how DOGE, Trump agenda will get country 'back on track': 'No more business as usual'

Newly elected GOP Congressman Derek Schmidt told Fox News Digital that the efforts of DOGE will be critical in the next Congress and explained why he is optimistic that Republicans will be on the same page in January to push through President-elect Trump’s agenda. 

"It's no more business as usual," Schmidt, elected in November to represent Kansas’ 2nd Congressional District, told Fox News about the impact of the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy as the two lobbied against a 1,500 page continuing resolution that was being debated in the House and opposed by some conservatives for containing too much "pork."

"Look, that was the top-line message from the voters last November. They want us to make progress on some of these issues, and we're not going to make progress by continuing to do the same things and expecting a different result. So, you know, it's going to be messy. It's going to be tumultuous, but that's what it takes in order to get this country back on track."

Schmidt told Fox News Digital that DOGE reforms are part of what Trump ran on.

'NO CHOICE': DOGE LEADERS RALLY HOUSE CONSERVATIVES AGAINST 1,500+ PAGE 'PORK-FEST'

"That's what President Trump promised. That's what many of us ran on. And that's what I at least intend to be part of accomplishing," Schmidt said. 

"So anything that helps put the genie back in the bottle, that helps move us back in the direction of this, you know, this federal system, this remarkable system of self-government that our founders gave us and that we have drifted so far from, especially since the New Deal, I think is something I want to be part of trying to help fix. I want to leave this country better for my kids than I found it, and that will not be true if we don't start getting a handle on runaway federal spending. And on this, the sprawling, grotesque federal bureaucracy that is unaccountable to voters."

Despite a net loss of two seats in the 435-member House in November, Republicans will hold a fragile 220-215 majority when the new Congress convenes next month giving them a razor-thin margin for error when attempting to advance Trump’s agenda.

Schmidt told Fox News Digital that he expects some "dissension" in the next Congress, which he called "the nature of Democratic self-government" but says he feels confident Republicans will unite on the big issues. 

"I think we're going to get the president's agenda adopted, look, I think a couple of things are true. One, to the extent that I've met my fellow incoming class members in the House and to the extent I've talked with current House members, there seems to be a broad sense that everybody knows we've got to deliver," Schmidt, who served as Kansas attorney general for over a decade, said. 

"We have this trifecta, so-called, that the voters have given us. They've trusted us to do what we said we're going to do, and everybody, even though they may have different perspective disagreements, understands we've got to deliver, and that means we've got to find ways to hang together."

TOP DOGE SENATOR TO DEMAND LAME-DUCK BIDEN AGENCIES HALT COSTLY TELEWORK TALKS, CITING VOTER MANDATE

Schmidt continued, "Number two. What's different now from, you know, a few times in the past when things have lined up is we have a strong Republican president. President Trump pulled no punches. He was very clear on the campaign trail the direction he wants to take the country, the types of policies that he wants enacted, and the voters approve that, not with just a win in the Electoral College, not with just a win for him in the popular vote, but also with the trifecta to help deliver that so we don't have to figure out what the agenda is. We have to listen to what the voters said by electing President Trump, what he articulated on the voter's behalf. And we have to step up, hang together and deliver results."

After winning both the Electoral College and the popular vote, Schmidt told Fox News Digital it is clear that Trump has a "mandate" from the American people and that House Republicans understand that a deadlock in Congress won't be something the voters are content with.

"I think the voters knew what they were choosing, and they made that decision and I also think it's very important, you know, to keep in line what I believe was the top line message, which is do something, make progress on these issues," Schmidt said. 

"If we don't like as the electorate, if we don't like what you've done, will judge that two years, four years, six years down the road. But do something. This sort of deadlock of accomplishing very little is an unacceptable way to lead the greatest nation on earth. And so I think that sense is pretty widely accepted among at least most of us who are entered into public office, and we've got a spirit of let's get together and act."

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Fox News Digital asked Schmidt what he is most looking forward to when serving in Congress, and he outlined his excitement about taking part in what he called the "extraordinary experiment" of American governance. 

"I don't I don't mean to sound like Mr. Smith goes to Washington, but there is a certain element of truth in the idea that each of us who is allowed to represent a group of Americans has an opportunity to be part of this extraordinary experiment in self-government that is still going despite all of its warts and imperfections," Schmidt said. 

"A lot of people who came before us paid great price at great personal expense to build this country into what it is today. We have an opportunity, those of us serving, myself included, to be part of rewriting or writing the next chapter in the American story. And I get excited about that every single morning. Whatever my service in public office ends, whether it's in two years, ten years or somewhere down the road, I want to be able to look back and say, I made a difference. I left America better than I found it. And so few people have that opportunity and a direct way. I will never lose sight of what I've been entrusted with."

Fox News Digital’s Paul Steinhauser contributed to this report



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The Wanted's Max George has pacemaker fitted for heart condition

The singer said earlier this week he would need surgery "way quicker than the doctors first thought".

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'It's bragging without the selfie' - The rise of Spotify Wrapped and its copycats

From Monzo and Duolingo to Trainline and Sainsbury's, companies have hopped onto the year in review bandwagon following the success of Spotify Wrapped

from BBC News https://ift.tt/R0SVkNd

'007' series in turmoil as producers, Amazon can't agree on franchise: 'I don't think James Bond is a hero'

The next installment in the "James Bond" franchise is still in development limbo due to a rift between the series' main producer and its new owners, Amazon.

In a report from The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), longtime Bond producer Barbara Broccoli and Amazon — which bought MGM studios in 2021 — are in an "ugly stalemate" over decisions about the future of the franchise. These include decisions on whether Bond should be turned into a streaming series, or more philosophical ones, like whether the titular character is even a hero.

"I have to be honest, I don't think James Bond is a hero," one Amazon executive said during a recent meeting about upcoming Bond content, the outlet reported. That quote seemed to point to Broccoli's fear that Amazon does not understand the very character that she has dedicated her career to.

DANIEL CRAIG CONFIRMS HE'S DONE WITH JAMES BOND AFTER WRAPPING 'NO TIME TO DIE'

Broccoli, who has had creative control over the "007" film franchise for over thirty years, "has told friends she doesn't trust algorithm-centric Amazon with a character she helped to mythologize through big-screen storytelling and gut instinct," WSJ reported.

According to the report, the relationship between Broccoli and Bond’s new owners is so rocky, that as recently as this fall, Broccoli "characterized the status of a new movie in dire terms—no script, no story and no new Bond." This lack of momentum in the franchise nearly three years after the last movie, 2021’s "No Time To Die" is unprecedented for a series that used to have an installment nearly every year or two since it began in the 60s.

"These people are f— idiots," Broccoli has reportedly told her friends about Amazon executives. 

WSJ spoke to 20 people familiar with the Amazon-Broccoli feud to understand the nature of the stalemate, writing that it "boils down to a clash between the 20th-century Hollywood of big screens and big swings and a new entertainment industry ruled by Silicon Valley firms that prize data, algorithms and streaming subscriptions."

DANIEL CRAIG SAYS HE'S DONE WITH JAMES BOND: 'ALL I WANT TO DO IS MOVE ON'

Broccoli "has complained that Amazon isn't a good home for Bond, since the company's core business is selling everything from toilet paper to vacuums," the report stated, though it noted she didn’t speak out against Amazon purchasing MGM because she "didn’t want to complicate what many in Hollywood viewed as a massive payout for MGM's owners."

As part of the deal, MGM executives ensured that Amazon committed to putting Bond on the big screen instead of relegating the franchise to a streaming series. The outlet noted that when one eager Amazon executive floated the idea of various Bond TV spin-offs, including a potential "Moneypenny" spin-off, or a female 007 spin-off, Broccoli shot the idea down.

"Did you read the contract?" she reportedly replied.

For the last several years, Broccoli has fended off a variety of ideas within the industry that Bond could take on a different identity in terms of gender or race in upcoming films. But as the outlet reported, she believes the spy "should always be played by a man, and should always be played by a Brit."

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WSJ also mentioned Broccoli shooting down Bond villain ideas inspired by current real-world figures that some people see as evil. 

"’Elon Musk?’ she said to one friend. ‘I did that back in 1997.’" Broccoli was referencing the villain from that year’s 007 franchise, "Tomorrow Never Dies." The outlet described that villain as "a wealthy tycoon whose global media empire includes a satellite network."

Liberal media outlets and Democratic lawmakers have grasped onto a new talking point recently, as the incoming administration gets ready to enter the White House — Elon Musk is a "shadow" president, taking the reins from President-elect Donald Trump.

WSJ rounded out its report with one last example of the tense relationship between Broccoli and Amazon. It noted that during her acceptance speech at a film industry awards show in November, "she did not mention Amazon." 

Amazon did not reply to Fox News Digital's request for comment. 

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Friday, December 20, 2024

America's best steakhouses include 2 restaurants each in 9 states: Is yours among them?

A new survey has revealed the top 25 steakhouses in the United States — with some keen insight into the latest trends on how Americans are enjoying beef.

The top 25 steak spots are found in 16 states, according to Yelp. Nine of these states — California, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Nevada, New York, Oregon, Texas and Washington — have two restaurants each on the list.

The nation's top spot is Penumbra, located in Chicago, Yelp said. Penumbra currently has a perfect five-star rating with nearly 1,000 reviews. 

STEAK CAN BE COOKED TO PERFECTION WITH A 'VERY HOT' SURFACE AND OTHER SIZZLING TIPS FROM CHEFS

The restaurant is described as "intimate" and romantic, according to Yelp, with steaks that "cut like butter" and are "cooked and seasoned perfectly."

Yelp reviewers also praised the sides at Penumbra.

Three of the top 10 steakhouses are Brazilian-style restaurants, which feature all-you-can-eat meats, Yelp said. 

At a Brazilian steakhouse, "meat skewers are slow-grilled over an open flame, then served rodizio style – carved tableside until you say, 'I'm full,'" according to Yelp.

RECIPE IS 'HAWAIIAN CLASSIC' USING TERIYAKI SHORT RIBS INSTEAD OF CANNED MEAT

The three Brazilian steakhouses that made the top 10 list are fifth-ranked Fazenda Gaúcha in Bedford, Texas; sixth-ranked Passador Brazilian Steakhouse in Alpharetta, Georgia; and ninth-ranked Brasão Brazilian Steakhouse in Plano, Texas. 

Other South American cuisines were featured in the top 10, according to Yelp, including the No. 1-ranked Penumbra, whose menu "reflects the chef's Ecuadorian childhood." 

The two Florida restaurants in the top 25 are both Argentinian-inspired, according to Yelp. 

These restaurants are No. 4 La Cosecha Argentinian Steakhouse in Medley, Florida, and No. 8 Bunbury in Miami.

FOOD FIGHT ERUPTS AS WOMAN CLAIMS FAMILY SPIKED HER VEGETARIAN MEALS WITH MEAT, SOCIAL MEDIA REACTS

Not all the spots on the top 25 list are upscale, fine-dining establishments

Several restaurants have a much more casual atmosphere and lower price point. 

The No. 3 spot, Shay's Steaks in Philadelphia, has a menu centered on sandwiches. 

At Shay's Steaks, "the iconic cheesesteak gets a serious upgrade, with filet mignon or prime rib stuffed into each sandwich," Yelp said. 

On its Yelp page, Shay's Steaks reviewers claim it is home to the "best Philly cheesesteak ever" and "is the absolute best of the best." 

Similarly, at 16th-ranked Steak Shack in Honolulu, Hawaii, customers order from a walk-up window. 

EAGLES FAN FAVORITE IS PHILADELPHIA'S SIGNATURE SANDWICH, NO PEPPERS REQUIRED

The restaurant's specialty – a 6-ounce "steak plate" featuring rice, salad and steak, cooked to order – is priced under $13. 

The largest serving at Steak Shack – a 14-ounce "steak plate" – is $22.80. 

Customers can also opt for a mixture of chicken and steak. 

1. Penumbra in Chicago, Illinois

2. Halls Chophouse in Charleston, South Carolina

3. Shay's Steaks in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

4. La Cosecha Argentinian Steakhouse in Medley, Florida

5. Fazenda Gaúcha in Bedford, Texas

6. Passador Brazilian Steakhouse in Alpharetta, Georgia

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7. Pho Kita Steak & Ribs in Hillsboro, Oregon

8. Bunbury in Miami, Florida

9. Brasão Brazilian Steakhouse in Plano, Texas

10. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf in Chicago, Illinois

11. 4 Charles Prime Rib in New York City, New York

12. Cuerno Bravo Prime Steakhouse in Tacoma, Washington

13. Santa Paula Steak & Hoagie in Santa Paula, California

14. Tuscany Steakhouse in New York City, New York

15. Jesse's Restaurant in Magnolia Springs, Alabama

16. Steak Shack in Honolulu, Hawaii

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17. Connors Steak & Seafood in Knoxville, Tennessee

18. Steak 44 in Phoenix, Arizona

19. Cordeiro's Steakhouse in Napa, California

20. The Melrose Grill in Renton, Washington

21. Ocean Prime Las Vegas, Nevada

22. Ox in Portland, Oregon

23. Guerra Steakhouse in Arlington, Virginia

24. Picanha Steak Restaurant in Las Vegas, Nevada

25. Aina Steak & Seafood in Honolulu, Hawaii



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Senate Republicans try to fast-track emergency military pay as they brace for shutdown

FIRST ON FOX: Two Senate Republicans are leading the charge to ensure military members are paid during a potential partial government shutdown as Congress inches closer to the midnight deadline on Saturday morning. 

Three Senate sources confirmed to Fox News Digital that Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, is leading an attempt to "hotline" a bill to make sure all armed services and the coast guard are paid in the event of a partial government shutdown. 

A hotline is a procedure used by senators usually to pass procedural motions or relatively noncontroversial measures. The practice allows bills or motions to pass with often very little or no public debate at all. 

TOP SENATE DEMS POUR COLD WATER ON LATEST GOP SPENDING BILL PLANS: 'READY TO STAY' THROUGH CHRISTMAS

Sullivan will take the Senate floor to make a live request for unanimous consent to consider the measure at 6 p.m. 

The bill is entitled the Pay Our Troops Act. It is cosponsored by Republican Sens. Lisa Murskowski of Alaska, Ted Budd and Thom Tillis of North Carolina, Steve Daines of Montana, Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, Marco Rubio and Rick Scott of Florida, Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, Kevin Cramer of North Dakota, Roger Wicker and Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi, Ted Cruz of Texas, Mike Rounds of South Dakota and JD Vance of Ohio. 

A spokesperson for Murkowski told Fox News Digital in a statement, "Senator Murkowski is adamant that our Armed Forces should not worry about their paycheck or their mission to keep Americans safe because of Congressional politics. This is non-negotiable for her."

One Republican source told Fox News Digital that they expect Senate Democrats to object to the request, noting that they have done so in the past. 

The effort is extending to the House side again as well, where Fox News Digital was told that Rep. Jen Kiggans, R-Va., is pressing for a vote on the version she introduced in the House. 

"We’re obviously pushing to keep the government open, but as a backup plan, we need to be providing reassurance to our military," Kiggans said, adding she’s spoken with House GOP leaders about getting a vote on her bill.

Fox News Digital's Elizabeth Elkind contributed to this report. 



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Saturday at 'the Spa': Saratoga Race Course picks for Whitney Day, including four Grade 1 stakes races

Take my word for it: Saratoga, New York is one of the best summer towns in the country. The concerts, restaurants, nightlife, and most impor...