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wow.888 No. 22 Army faces unexpected foe La. Tech in Independence BowlStarting a dog breeding business is a venture with potential yet entails considerable responsibility. There is a clear demand for well-bred dogs, which can provide a steady source of income for breeders dedicated to maintaining high standards. Whether or not it’s a good investment depends heavily on the breeder’s commitment to ethical practices and the wellbeing of the dogs. The reputation of a dog breeding business significantly influences its success. Prospective owners are often willing to invest in breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and lineage. Breeders must navigate various challenges, including breeding expenses, healthcare for dogs, and ensuring compliance with legal regulations. Entering the dog breeding industry requires substantial research and preparation. Enthusiasm for dogs isn’t enough; breeding involves considerable time, effort, and resources. Success is possible for those who are truly passionate about dogs and have a thorough understanding of breeding intricacies. The dog breeding industry presents several opportunities and challenges. Factors such as market demand, potential returns, and comparison with other pet-related sectors are crucial when evaluating this business. The demand for dogs, especially purebred and designer breeds, has been growing. Urbanization and increased pet adoption rates have contributed significantly. Trends to note include: Potential breeders should investigate breed popularity and adapt to changes in consumer preferences. Dog breeding can be lucrative, but it requires careful management. Initial costs include facility setup , veterinary care , and breeding stock acquisition . Returns can vary significantly depending on breed and market conditions. Compared to other pet sectors, dog breeding involves more hands-on management and risk . Breeding demands commitment and expertise , making it distinct from other pet activities. Each sector has unique investment profiles and risk levels. Starting a dog breeding business requires defining profitable breeds and niches, crafting a solid business plan, and ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards. Identifying the right breeds is crucial for achieving success in a dog breeding business. Breeders must research market demand to identify popular breeds. For example, consider hypoallergenic breeds for allergy-sensitive families or toy breeds for urban dwellers. Additionally, breeders should analyze trends and preferences in the pet industry. Niche markets , such as service dogs for therapeutic purposes or specific breeds for competition, offer unique opportunities. Understanding local demographics and economic conditions can further refine breed selection, ensuring alignment with regional preferences. A comprehensive business plan serves as the roadmap for a dog breeding venture. Essential components include a detailed budget, projected costs for facilities, healthcare, food, and marketing. Additionally, breeders should outline revenue streams, such as puppy sales and stud services. Market analysis can provide insights into potential competition, pricing strategies, and customer segmentation. An effective business plan should also address risk management, including contingency plans for health crises or market fluctuations. Long-term planning , incorporating growth and scalability, helps ensure sustained success. Dog breeding involves navigating a complex landscape of regulations. Compliance with local, state, and federal laws is essential to operate legally and ethically. Breeders must obtain necessary licenses and permits, such as kennel licenses, and adhere to zoning laws. Animal welfare regulations are also crucial. Standards for housing, veterinary care, and breeding practices must be met to ensure the health and well-being of the dogs. Record keeping for vaccinations, pedigrees, and breeding cycles is often mandatory. Staying informed about ongoing legislative changes is vital for maintaining compliance and protecting the business. Starting a dog breeding business requires careful financial planning, including analyzing initial investments, understanding operational costs, and projecting potential revenue. Launching a dog breeding business involves several upfront expenses. Key investments include purchasing high-quality breeding dogs, which can range from $2,000 to $10,000 depending on breed and pedigree. Facility setup is crucial, requiring secure kennels, fencing, and climate control systems. These can cost between $3,000 and $15,000 . Furthermore, initial veterinary expenses cover health checks and vaccinations, approximately $500 to $1,000 . Marketing and branding costs, crucial for establishing a reputable presence, might require an additional $500 to $2,000 . Regular expenses include food, grooming, and veterinary care. Quality dog food costs around $30 to $100 monthly per dog. Routine medical expenses can average $300 annually , covering vaccinations and check-ups. Breeders might also face costs for registrations and certifications, around $200 annually . Staff wages, if employing helpers for maintenance and care, depend on location and labor laws. Additionally, utilities and maintenance for the facilities can add $500 to $1,000 monthly. Revenue depends significantly on breed popularity and litter size. High-demand breeds can sell puppies for $500 to $3,000 each. With an average litter size of four to eight puppies, each breeding cycle holds substantial income potential. A successful breeder might plan for two to three litters per year, ensuring sufficient spacing for health. Additional services, such as training and grooming, can offer supplementary income. Estimating realistic sales targets and pricing strategies is essential for forecasting annual revenue effectively. The dog breeding process involves vital considerations like adhering to ethical standards and ensuring the health and genetic quality of the dogs. Responsible breeders focus on maintaining high standards to promote the welfare and lineage of their dogs. Ethical breeding standards are fundamental to a reputable breeding business. Breeders must prioritize animal welfare, choosing breeding pairs that exemplify desirable traits and good health. Breeders should ensure that breeds are not overbred. This involves maintaining a responsible mating schedule that respects the dogs’ physical and emotional needs. Participating in breed-specific organizations can help keep breeders informed about best practices. These organizations often provide guidelines to maintain breed standards and contribute positively to the genetic pool. Ensuring the health of breeding dogs requires regular veterinary check-ups and health screenings. Genetic testing is crucial to identify and avoid hereditary diseases that may affect the breed’s future generations. Breeders should maintain detailed records for each dog. These documents should include health history, genetic screenings, and any previous medical conditions to make informed decisions about pairing. Responsible breeding also involves understanding potential genetic issues. It is essential to avoid inbreeding, which can exacerbate health problems and compromise the overall genetic diversity of the breed. Creating a successful dog breeding business requires careful planning of facility and space. A well-thought-out design and layout, along with strategic location choices, are key components. A well-designed facility accommodates the specific needs of different dog breeds. Kennel sizes should reflect the breed’s size and activity level. Efficient use of space is essential. A layout with designated areas for exercise, grooming, and veterinary care enhances the well-being of the dogs. Proper ventilation and lighting promote a healthy environment. Temperature control systems maintain comfortable conditions year-round. Incorporating easy-to-clean materials reduces contamination risks. A well-structured layout optimizes operations while ensuring animal welfare, which is critical for any breeding business. Adapting designs to local climate conditions can also improve comfort and health. Selecting an appropriate location for a dog breeding facility involves understanding local zoning regulations and community standards . Compliance with these rules is essential to avoid legal issues. Proximity to veterinary services and pet supply stores can offer operational advantages. Consider the noise levels in the area, as barking dogs could be disruptive to neighbors. Rural or semi-rural locations can often provide ample space and fewer noise concerns. Accessibility for clients and staff, as well as security measures, are also important factors. Additional research into local real estate market conditions can help identify a suitable and cost-effective location. Prioritizing these considerations ensures a successful breeding facility establishment. In the dog breeding business, maintaining consistent health standards and forging strong relationships with veterinarians are crucial elements. Establishing comprehensive healthcare plans ensures the well-being of dogs and supports the business’s overall success. A well-structured healthcare plan is integral to any dog breeding operation. Routine care typically includes vaccinations, deworming, and regular check-ups. Vaccinations protect against common diseases like rabies and distemper, while regular vet visits monitor overall health. Emergency care provisions are essential. Breeders should have a plan for unexpected medical issues, including access to emergency veterinary services. This can minimize risks and ensure prompt attention should an urgent health issue arise. You may find yourself needing emergency care if you’ve been injured from a dog bite . A budget dedicated to unforeseen veterinary expenses is also recommended to avoid financial strain. Strong partnerships with veterinary services offer several benefits to dog breeders. These relationships can provide preferential service , including priority scheduling for sick animals and discounted rates on certain services or medications. Close collaboration with vets allows for better health management of breeding dogs, ensuring timely interventions if health issues arise. Veterinarians can offer guidance on nutrition, exercise, and breeding practices, enhancing the overall quality of care. Additionally, breeders may receive updates on advancements in animal healthcare, keeping them informed of the latest treatment options and practices. Engaging with a trusted veterinarian helps breeders maintain ethical standards and ensures their breeding program prioritizes the health and well-being of the animals. This relationship not only safeguards the dogs but also enhances the breeder’s reputation in the industry. Effective marketing is essential for a successful dog breeding business. It involves building a solid brand, optimizing online presence, and maintaining strong customer relations. Branding embodies the identity of a breeding business. It includes the business name, logo, and values. A unique name and professional logo foster recognition. Consistency across promotional materials is essential for building trust. Creating a story around the brand adds depth and draws emotional engagement. Sharing the founder’s journey, the breeds’ qualities, and the vision can resonate well with the audience. Engaging narratives make the brand memorable. Participation in dog shows and community events can strengthen brand awareness. Distributing branded materials like brochures and business cards during these events boosts visibility and establishes credibility. An online presence is crucial in reaching a broader audience. A well-designed website with clear information on available puppies, breeding practices, and contact details is a starting point. It should be mobile-friendly and easy to navigate. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook offer opportunities to showcase dogs and breeding facilities. Regular updates and engaging content, such as photos, videos, and stories, can attract potential customers. Search engine optimization (SEO) increases visibility in search engine results. Leveraging keywords related to dog breeds and breeding can attract traffic. Utilizing online ads can also enhance the reach to targeted demographics. Building strong relationships with customers fosters loyalty and encourages referrals. Transparency about breeding practices and puppy care is vital. Providing ample information and promptly responding to inquiries demonstrates reliability. Offering support services, such as training tips and health advice, can add value. Keeping in touch after puppies leave encourages positive, long-term relationships. Testimonials and reviews from satisfied customers enhance credibility. Displaying these on the website and social media can influence potential buyers’ decisions. Encouraging past clients to share their experiences helps build a trustworthy reputation. Providing exceptional service and nurturing connections are central to a loyal customer base. A successful dog breeding business requires proactive risk management in areas such as insurance, liability, and breeding challenges. These efforts ensure both financial protection and the well-being of the animals involved. Adequate insurance coverage is essential for breeders to safeguard their business against potential financial loss. Policies often needed include general liability , covering injury or property damage claims, and care, custody, or control insurance, which addresses incidents involving the dogs. Evaluating specific needs, such as coverage for rare breeds or kennel insurance, helps tailor policies effectively. Breeders should consult with insurance professionals familiar with this industry to understand the options and ensure comprehensive protection. This minimizes risks associated with accidents or legal claims, thus maintaining business stability. Breeding challenges demand careful attention to health and genetic concerns. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing are vital to prevent congenital issues and ensure the health of breeding dogs. Such practices reduce the likelihood of genetic disorders appearing in litters. Maintaining breeding records assists in tracking lineage and identifying potential health risks. Understanding breed-specific challenges and investing in quality nutrition and care are crucial. This commitment not only strengthens the overall breeding program but also enhances the reputation of the breeding business by ensuring healthy, well-adjusted puppies. The dog breeding business faces scrutiny concerning ethical practices and how these practices are viewed by the public. Addressing animal welfare and promoting responsible breeding are essential for improving public perception. Responsible breeding methods ensure the health and welfare of the dogs. Reputable breeders conduct thorough health screenings for genetic conditions. Priority is given to temperament and health over appearance. Transparency about breeding practices builds trust with potential buyers and the community. Maintaining detailed records of bloodlines prevents genetic disorders and ensures ethical standards. Clear guidelines and adherence to best practices help in avoiding overbreeding, which can harm dogs’ health. Outreach and education are tools breeders use to inform the public about responsible breeding. Participation in canine organizations and breeder networks enhances credibility and allows for the sharing of resources and knowledge. Ethical breeders often emphasize spay and neuter programs to control overpopulation and contribute to a positive reputation. Animal welfare is a prominent issue in dog breeding. Ensuring adequate living conditions, such as ample space and proper veterinary care, is critical. Regular health checks and vaccinations are necessary to maintain the animals’ well-being. Breeders must prioritize the physical and emotional needs of dogs, including exercise, socialization, and grooming. Public perception is influenced by the visibility of ethical practices. Open communication about breeding operations helps dispel negative stereotypes. Certification from recognized animal welfare organizations enhances trust. Emphasizing the ethical treatment of animals can lead to improved relationships with clients and advocacy groups, fostering a positive image in the community.

The Arizona Cardinals are 6-6 through 12 games, which makes them an average football team. That's much better than the previous two years, which both ended with just four wins. But after two straight frustrating losses, it's not providing much consolation for a franchise that feels as though it should be much better. The latest setback came on Sunday, when the Minnesota Vikings rallied to beat the Cardinals 23-22 . Arizona never trailed until Sam Darnold threw a 5-yard touchdown pass with 1:18 remaining that proved to be the winning score. It was a mistake-filled performance for the Cardinals, who racked up 10 penalties for 96 yards. That's a big reason they had to settle for five field goals and scored just one touchdown. The Cardinals were leading 19-16 in the fourth quarter and had first-and-goal at the Vikings 5, but Tip Reiman was called for a false start and then quarterback Kyler Murray was called for intentional grounding . The Cardinals kicked a field goal for a 22-16 lead, giving the Vikings the chance they needed to drive for the winning score. Murray threw two interceptions in the fourth quarter. “I thought we moved the ball well,” Murray said. “Again, it just comes down to not scoring touchdowns. Get down there and kick field goals and penalties bite us. It’s bad — it’s bad football.” The loss knocked the Cardinals out of first place in the NFC West, though they're still in decent playoff position. A pivotal game against the division-rival Seahawks looms on Sunday. Second-year coach Jonathan Gannon acknowledged the frustration of Sunday's loss, but said they've got to rebound quickly. “They’re disappointed and down, but it’s the NFL,” Gannon said. “They’ve got to put all their energy and focus into tomorrow.” Arizona's defense blamed itself for not coming up with a stop on the Vikings' winning drive, but the unit played exceptionally well for most of the afternoon. Mack Wilson and L.J. Collier both had two sacks and the Cardinals held Minnesota to just 273 total yards. For a group that looked as if it might be the team's weakness this season, it was another rock solid performance. The Cardinals aren't a good enough football team to overcome 10 penalties and get a win — particularly on the road. Reiman had a rough day, getting called for three false starts. His false start on the next-to-last offensive drive — coupled with Murray's intentional grounding penalty — proved to be extremely costly. “That was brutal,” Gannon said. “Just got to figure out ways to punch the ball in for touchdowns there, not field goals.” Rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. had five catches for 60 yards, including an impressive touchdown catch that put the Cardinals up 19-6. It was Harrison's seventh TD reception of the season. The No. 4 overall pick has been a little inconsistent in his first year, but there's little doubt he's a difference-maker for the offense. He's still got a chance to reach 1,000 yards receiving this season if he averages about 80 yards receiving over the final five games. Considering his talent, that's certainly possible. Gannon was second-guessed for his decision to kick a field goal late in the fourth quarter instead of trying for a touchdown at the Vikings 4 with 3:29 left. Chad Ryland made the 23-yard chip shot for a 22-16 lead, but the Vikings drove the field on the ensuing possession for the winning score. “I trust JG,” Murray said. “I see both sides. Go up six and make them score; trust the defense to go get a stop. Go for it, you don’t get it, they’ve still got to go down and score. If you do get it, you probably put the game away.” Said Gannon: "Yeah, I mean there’s thought about it. Just wanted to go up more than a field goal there. Definitely a decision point that we talked about. So be it.” The Cardinals came out of the game fairly healthy. Rookie DL Darius Robinson — the No. 27 overall pick — made his NFL debut against the Vikings after missing the first 11 games due to a calf injury. 1,074 — Running back James Conner's total yards from the line of scrimmage this season, including 773 on the ground and 301 in the passing game. The Cardinals return home for a game against the Seahawks on Sunday. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

For anyone who dreams of a career in engineering that involves pushing the envelope, a post-secondary institution with an innovative approach to engineering education is essential. It prepares the next generation with the knowledge and skills to excel in fields such as sustainable building, IT systems, and mechatronics. Enrolment is now open at Humber Polytechnic where students can take advantage of three engineering degree programs that blend classroom theory with project-based learning. Humber’s Bachelor of Engineering degrees in Mechatronics Engineering, Information Systems Engineering, and Sustainable Building Engineering are set in cutting-edge labs, state-of-the-art facilities and specialized learning spaces including The Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation. Students also complete mandatory 12-month co-op work placements. "Today’s challenges need innovative solutions from engineering teams that are multi-disciplinary, diverse and able to adapt to a rapidly changing world,” says Dr. Shaun Ghafari, P.Eng. Dean of Engineering, Humber Polytechnic. "Humber’s engineering degrees blend classroom theory with project-based learning providing students with the critical-thinking and practical training needed to prepare the next generation of engineering leaders.” Courtesy of Humber Polytechnic This approach ensures that Humber students, like Samara Ocansey, a third-year Bachelor of Engineering in Sustainable Building Engineering student and founder of the Women in Engineering club, can be confident their education will prepare them for employability with relevant skills in an ever-changing industry. “What attracted me to Humber Polytechnic was its future-focused curriculum, which demonstrates a clear understanding of the evolving demands of the profession,” she says. "At Humber, we solve real-world problems in small classes and work in state-of-the-art labs, gaining hands-on experience with advanced technology.” Courtesy of Humber Polytechnic Here are three engineering programs at Humber Polytechnic currently accepting applications, with graduates ready to step into future-focused careers: Information Systems Engineering : Get career-oriented training in an interdisciplinary field that brings together computer science, software engineering, cyber security and more. Mechatronics Engineering : Build the machines of tomorrow with this program, which gives students comprehensive training in mechanical, electrical, electronics, computer engineering, and more. Sustainable Building Engineering : This timely program equips students with the skills and knowledge to work in sustainable building design, construction management, energy modelling and environmental assessment. So, where is your future taking you? To learn more about Humber Polytechnic's Engineering courses, visit their website or follow them on Instagram , Facebook and LinkedIn .Oklahoma State (4-1) will play in the fifth-place game on Sunday, while Miami (3-2) will try to avoid going winless in the tournament. Oklahoma State led 43-27 at halftime after making 8 of 15 from 3-point range, while Miami was just 8 of 27 overall. Four different Cowboys made a 3-pointer in the first half, with Brandon Newman making three. Thompson banked in a shot early in the second half to give Oklahoma State a 20-point lead at 49-29. Miami, which opened the game by missing 7 of 8 shots, went 1 for 8 from the field to begin the second half. Miami trailed by double figures the entire second half until Matthew Cleveland made a difficult shot in the lane while being fouled. He made the free throw to pull the Hurricanes within 75-67 with 49 seconds left. Arturo Dean restored a double-digit lead by making two free throws at 43.8. Thompson reached the 1,000 career points with the Cowboys on a shot in the lane with 13:01 left in the second half to give Oklahoma State a 55-38 lead. Nijel Pack scored 20 points and Brandon Johnson had 12 points and 10 rebounds for Miami. Cleveland finished with 11 points, and Lynn Kidd and Paul Djobet each had 10. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball

A top Fed official leans toward December rate cut but says it depends on economic data WASHINGTON (AP) — A top Federal Reserve official says he is leaning toward supporting an interest rate cut when the Fed meets in two weeks but that evidence of persistent inflation before then could cause him to change that view. Speaking at George Washington University, Christopher Waller, a key member of the Fed’s Board of Governors, said he was confident that inflation is headed lower and that the central bank will likely keep reducing its key rate, which affects many consumer and business loans. But he noted that there’s a risk that inflation “may be getting stuck above” the Fed’s 2% target, which would support an argument for keeping the Fed’s rate unchanged this month. Cyber Monday shoppers expected to set a record on the year's biggest day for online shopping Consumers in the U.S. are scouring the internet for online deals as they look to make the most of the post-Thanksgiving shopping marathon on Cyber Monday. The National Retail Federation coined the term for the Monday after Black Friday in 2005. Even though e-commerce is now part and parcel of many people’s regular routine, Cyber Monday continues to be the biggest online shopping day of the year, thanks to steady discounts and a fair amount of hype. Several major retails actually started their Cyber Monday promotions over the weekend. Consumer spending for the online shopping days between Thanksgiving and Cyber Monday provides an indication of how much shoppers are willing to spend for the holidays. Supreme Court doesn't seem convinced FDA was unfair in blocking flavored vapes teen use increased WASHINGTON (AP) — A majority of Supreme Court justices didn’t seem convinced Monday that federal regulators misled companies before refusing to allow them to sell sweet flavored vaping products following a surge in teen e-cigarette use. The court did raise questions about an FDA crackdown that included denials on sales of more than a million nicotine products formulated to taste like fruit, desert or candy. The case comes a month before the start of the second Trump administration, which could change the FDA's approach after he vowed to “save” vaping. Can AI chatbots make your holiday shopping easier? Tired of thinking about what gifts to get everyone this year? Artificial intelligence chatbots might help, but don’t expect them to always give you the right answers. Scouring the internet for Cyber Monday deals may yield an encounter with more chattier iterations of the chatbots that some retailers built to provide customer service. Some companies have integrated models that allow shoppers to ask questions like “What’s the best wireless speaker?” Retailers hope consumers use these shopping assistants as virtual companions that help them discover or compare products. The technology is still in its infancy, though, and chatbots are prone to hallucinations, so most of the new tools sometimes get things wrong. Intel CEO Gelsinger retires; Zinsner and Johnston Holthaus named interim co-CEOs Struggling chipmaker Intel says in a surprise announcement that CEO Pat Gelsinger has retired. Two company executives, David Zinsner and Michelle Johnston Holthaus, will act as interim co-CEOs while the company searches for a replacement for Gelsinger, who also stepped down from the company’s board. The departure of Gelsinger, whose career spanned more than 40 years, underscores turmoil at Intel. The company was once a dominant force in the semiconductor industry but has ben eclipsed by rival Nvidia, which has cornered the market for chips that run artificial intelligence systems. Nvidia’s ascendance was cemented earlier this month when it replaced Intel on the Dow Jones Industrial Average. Stock market today: Rising tech stocks pull Wall Street to another record NEW YORK (AP) — Technology stocks pulled Wall Street to another record amid mixed trading. The S&P 500 rose 0.2% Monday after closing November at an all-time high. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.3%, and the Nasdaq composite gained 1%. Super Micro Computer, a stock that’s been on an AI-driven roller coaster, soared after saying an investigation found no evidence of misconduct by its management or the company’s board. Retailers were mixed coming off Black Friday and heading into what’s expected to be the best Cyber Monday on record. Treasury yields held relatively steady in the bond market. Better drugs through AI? Insitro CEO on what machine learning can teach Big Pharma WASHINGTON (AP) — Artificial intelligence is changing the way industries do business. But executives in the pharmaceutical industry are still waiting to see whether AI can tackle their biggest challenge: finding faster, cheaper ways to develop new drugs. Despite billions poured into research and development, new medicines still typically take a decade or more to develop. Insitro is part of a growing field of AI companies promising to accelerate drug discovery by using machine learning to analyze huge datasets that could lead to new medicines. FTC opens Microsoft antitrust investigation that Trump administration must carry on or drop Antitrust enforcers with the Federal Trade Commission have opened a wide-ranging investigation into Microsoft’s business practices, starting off a big legal project that an incoming Trump administration must take up or abandon. The FTC is investigating Microsoft’s cloud computing business and related product lines such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, according to a person who was not authorized to publicly discuss details of the investigation and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. It’s the latest action of more than three years of aggressive antitrust enforcement shepherded by FTC Chair Lina Chan, who was elevated to lead the agency by President Joe Biden after he came into office pledging tougher scrutiny of monopolistic behavior by Big Tech companies. More than 3 million travelers screened at US airports in a single day. That's a record Travelers heading home after the Thanksgiving holiday are setting a record. The Transportation Security Administration says that it screened nearly 3.1 million travelers on Sunday, breaking the previous record by about 74,000. That mark was set on July 7, also a Sunday after a holiday, July Fourth. Hundreds of thousands of travelers were delayed or had their flights canceled. FlightAware says more 6,800 flights were delayed on Sunday, with the highest numbers at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Chicago’s O’Hare Airport. General Motors to sell its stake in Lansing, Michigan, battery factory to LG Energy Solution DETROIT (AP) — General Motors has reached an agreement to sell its stake in a nearly completed electric vehicle battery plant in Lansing, Michigan. The company said Monday that it has a nonbinding agreement for the sale to joint venture partner LG Energy Solution of South Korea. The companies expect to close the sale by the end of March. Financial details were not released Monday, but GM said it expects to recoup its investment. The company has spent about $1 billion on the Lansing factory. GM says it will rely on joint venture factories in Warren, Ohio, and Spring Hill, Tennessee, to supply factories that make seven electric vehicles now on sale in the U.S.Cardinals are average through 12 games and the frustration is it feels as if they could be better

WASHINGTON — American Airlines briefly grounded flights nationwide Tuesday because of a technical problem just as the Christmas travel season kicked into overdrive and winter weather threatened more potential problems for those planning to fly or drive. Government regulators cleared American flights to get airborne about an hour after the Federal Aviation Administration ordered a national ground stop for the airline. The order, which prevented planes from taking off, was issued at the airline's request. The airline said in an email that the problem was caused by trouble with vendor technology that maintains its flight operating system. An American Airlines employee wearing looks toward quiet check-in counters Tuesday in the American terminal at Miami International Airport in Miami. Dennis Tajer, a spokesperson for the Allied Pilots Association, a union representing American Airlines pilots, said the airline told pilots at 7 a.m. Eastern that there was an outage affecting the system known as FOS. It handles different types of airline operations, including dispatch, flight planning, passenger boarding, as well as an airplane's weight and balance data, he said. Some components of FOS have gone down in the past, but a systemwide outage is rare, Tajer said. Flights were delayed across American's major hubs, with only 37% leaving on time, according to Cirium, an aviation analytics company. Out of the 3,901 domestic and international American Airlines flights scheduled for Tuesday, 19 were canceled. Cirium noted that the vast majority of flights departed within two hours of their scheduled departure time. A similar percentage — 36% — arrived at their destinations as scheduled. Meanwhile, the flight-tracking site FlightAware reported that 3,712 flights entering or leaving the U.S., or serving domestic destinations, were delayed Tuesday, with 55 flights canceled. It did not show any flights from American Airlines. Cirium said Dallas-Fort Worth, New York's Kennedy Airport and Charlotte, North Carolina, saw the greatest number of delays. Washington, Chicago and Miami experienced considerably fewer delays. Travelers wait in line for security checks Tuesday at the Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles. Amid the travel problems, significant rain and snow were expected in the Pacific Northwest at least into Christmas Day. Showers and thunderstorms developed in the South. Freezing rain was reported in the Mid-Atlantic region near Baltimore and Washington, and snow fell in New York. Because the holiday travel period lasts weeks, airports and airlines typically have smaller peak days than they do during the rush around Thanksgiving, but the grind of one hectic day followed by another takes a toll on flight crews. Any hiccups — a winter storm or a computer outage — can snowball into massive disruptions. That is how Southwest Airlines stranded 2 million travelers in December 2022, and Delta Air Lines suffered a smaller but significant meltdown after a worldwide technology outage in July caused by a faulty software update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike. Many flights during the holidays are sold out, which makes cancellations even more disruptive than during slower periods. That is especially true for smaller budget airlines that have fewer flights and fewer options for rebooking passengers. Only the largest airlines, including American, Delta and United, have "interline agreements" that let them put stranded customers on another carrier's flights. An American Airlines employee wearing a Santa Claus hat walks through the American terminal Tuesday at Miami International Airport in Miami. This will be the first holiday season since a Transportation Department rule took effect that requires airlines to give customers an automatic cash refund for a canceled or significantly delayed flight. Most air travelers were already eligible for refunds, but they often had to request them. Passengers still can ask to get rebooked, which is often a better option than a refund during peak travel periods. Finding a last-minute flight on another airline tends to be expensive. An American spokesperson said Tuesday was not a peak travel day for the airline — with about 2,000 fewer flights than the busiest days — so the airline had somewhat of a buffer to manage the delays. The groundings happened as millions of travelers were expected to fly over the next 10 days. The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen 40 million passengers through Jan. 2. Airlines expect to have their busiest days on Thursday, Friday and Sunday. American Airlines employees check in travelers Tuesday in the American terminal at Miami International Airport in Miami. Many flights during the holidays are sold out, which makes cancellations more disruptive than during slower periods. Even with just a brief outage, the cancellations have a cascading effect that can take days to clear up. About 90% of Americans traveling far from home over the holidays will be in cars, according to AAA. "Airline travel is just really high right now, but most people do drive to their destinations, and that is true for every holiday," AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz said. Gasoline prices are similar to last year. The nationwide average Thursday was $3.04 a gallon, down from $3.13 a year ago, according to AAA. Charging an electric vehicle averages just under 35 cents per per kilowatt hour, but varies by state. Transportation-data firm INRIX says travel times on the nation's highways could be up to 30% longer than normal over the holidays, with Sunday expected to see the heaviest traffic. "It's not the destination, it's the journey," said American essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson. Ralph clearly was not among the travellers on one of more than 350 cancelled or 1,400 delayed flights after a worldwide tech outage caused by an update to Crowdstrike's "Falcon Sensor" software in July of 2023. U.S. airlines carried nearly 863 million travellers in 2023, with Canadian carriers accounting for another 150 million, many of whom experienced lost luggage, flight delays, cancellations, or were bumped off their flights. It's unclear how many of them were compensated for these inconveniences. Suffice it to say, posting a crabby rant on social media might temporarily soothe anger, but it won't put wasted money back in pockets. Money.ca shares what to know in order to be compensated for the three most common air travel headaches. Bags elected to go on a vacay without you? Check off the following: If you expect a large payout, think again. Tariffs (air carrier contracts) limit the compensation amounts for "loss of, damage to, or the delay in delivery of baggage or other personal property." In the case of Air Canada, the maximum payout is $1,500 per passenger in the currency of the country where the baggage was processed. To raise that limit, purchase a Declaration of Higher Value for each leg of the trip. The charge is $0.50 for each $100, in which case the payout limit is $2,500. For Delta Air Lines, passengers are entitled to up to $3,800 in baggage compensation, though how much you'll receive depends on your flight. Delta will pay up to $2,080 for delayed, lost, and damaged baggage for international travellers, almost half of what U.S. domestic passengers can claim. If your flight is marked delayed for more than 30 minutes, approach the gate agent and politely request food and hotel vouchers to be used within the airport or nearby. Different air carriers and jurisdictions have their own compensation policies when flights are delayed or cancelled. For example, under European Union rules, passengers may receive up to 600 Euros, even when travelling on a non-EU carrier. Similarly, the DOT states that travellers are entitled to a refund "if the airline cancelled a flight, regardless of the reason, and the consumer chooses not to travel." However, US rules regarding delays are complicated. Some air carriers, such as Air Canada, do not guarantee their flight schedules. They're also not liable for cancellations or changes due to "force majeure" such as weather conditions or labour disruptions. If the delay is overnight, only out-of-town passengers will be offered hotel accommodation. Nevertheless, many airlines do offer some compensation for the inconvenience. If your flight is marked delayed for more than 30 minutes, approach the gate agent and politely request food and hotel vouchers to be used within the airport or nearby. In terms of cash compensation, what you'll get can differ significantly based on things like departure location, time, carrier, and ticket class. The DOT offers a helpful delay and cancellations dashboard designed to keep travellers informed about their compensation rights. The dashboard is particularly helpful because, as the DOT states on its website, "whether you are entitled to a refund depends on a lot of factors—such as the length of the delay, the length of the flight, and your particular circumstances." The Canadian Transportation Agency is proposing air passenger protection regulations that guarantee financial compensation to travellers experiencing flight delays and cancellations, with the level of compensation varying depending on the situation and how much control the air carrier had. The proposed regulations include the following: The airline is obligated to complete the passenger's itinerary. If the new ticket is for a lower class of service, the air carrier would have to refund the cost difference; if the booking is in a higher class of service, passengers cannot be charged extra. If the passenger declines the ticket, the airline must give a full refund, in addition to the prescribed compensation. For overnight delays, the air carrier needs to provide hotel accommodation and transportation free-of-charge. Again, if you are unsatisfied, the Canadian Transportation Agency or Department of Transportation may advocate on your behalf. Passengers get bumped because airlines overbook. When this happens, the air carrier must compensate you. For international flights in the US, the rate is 200% of your one-way fare to your final destination, with a $675 maximum. If the airline does not make travel arrangements for you, the payout is 400% of your one-way fare to a maximum of $1,350. To qualify, you must check-in by the stated deadline, which on international flights can be up to 3 hours ahead. Keep in mind that if you accept the cash, you are no longer entitled to any further compensation, nor are you guaranteed to be rebooked on a direct flight or similar type of seat. Don't be too quick to give up your boarding pass. Negotiate for the best compensation deal that would include cash, food and hotel vouchers, flight upgrade, lounge passes, as well as mileage points. But avoid being too greedy—if the gate attendant is requesting volunteers and you wait too long, you'll miss the offer. According to Air Canada's tariff, if a passenger is involuntarily bumped, they'll receive $200, in cash or bank draft, for up to a two-hour delay; $400 for a 2-6 hours delay; and $800 if the delay is over six hours. (Air Canada was forced to raise its payouts in 2013 due to passenger complaints.) The new rules would raise the payout significantly: $900 for up to six hours; $1,800 for 6-9; and $2,400 for more than nine hours, all to be paid within 48 hours. Statistically speaking, Delta Airlines is the carrier most likely to bump. A few years ago, Delta raised its payout maximum to $9,950, while United Airlines tops out at $10,000. This story was produced by Money.ca and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. Get local news delivered to your inbox!In the early 1900s, American inventor Clarence Birdseye revolutionized food preservation with his quick-freezing method, setting the stage for today’s thriving frozen-food industry. Among its many creations is one of the nation’s favorite convenience foods: fish sticks. Jump to the recipes Loved for their crispy coating and mild seafood flavor, Americans consumed around 56 million pounds of fish sticks in 2019 alone. However, these ultra-processed treats aren’t always the healthiest choice. The good news? You can enjoy the same delicious flavor with more nutritious, plant-based alternatives. Read on to learn how. Are fish sticks healthy? Fish sticks are a convenient frozen staple, loved by adults and kids alike all over the US. In the UK, where they’re usually known as fish fingers, they’re also a firm favorite. But while fish sticks do contain nutrients like protein and omega-3, as well as several vitamins and minerals, including selenium and vitamin D, they are far from perfect. Fish sticks are an example of an ultra-processed food. Most contain fillers, additives, and preservatives, and they can be high in sodium, too. They are also usually fried before they are frozen, which increases their saturated fat content. While ultra-processed foods aren’t inherently bad, when eaten in excess, they can have negative health implications. Trader Joe’s RELATED: Why Freezing Tofu Is a Recipe Game-Changer One recent study, for example, found that ultra-processed foods may increase the risk of osteoarthritis, as they increase the amount of fat stored in thigh muscles . “In an adult population at risk for but without knee or hip osteoarthritis, consuming ultra-processed foods is linked to increased fat within the thigh muscles,” researchers said. Ultra-processed foods have also been linked with a higher risk of stroke and cognitive impairment , as well as cancer and heart disease. Again, many experts say that, in moderation, the risks of ultra-processed foods are lower. In fact, some ultra-processed foods, like wholegrain bread, baked beans, or cereal, for example, are good sources of nutrients like fiber and protein. However, a growing body of research confirms that minimally processed whole foods, like beans, nuts, lentils, fruits, and vegetables, are best for our health. Getty In the US, research suggests that as much as 60 percent of Americans’ daily calorie intake comes from ultra-processed foods . But if you’re looking to increase your intake of whole foods, the good news is you don’t have to miss out on your favorites, including fish sticks. Vegan fish is more sustainable Plant-based fish sticks are also a more sustainable option. Right now, according to the Marine Stewardship Council , overfishing is now three times higher than it was in 1970, while nearly 40 percent of fish stocks are overfished. The impacts of overfishing are, in short, devastating and far-reaching. “Overfishing can affect biodiversity, habitats, and ecosystems that make vital contributions to the climate, clean air, water, and food,” the council states. Getty Overfishing most notably impacts fish targeted for food, but it also has rippling effects. “Biodiversity impacts can take place not only through overfishing of fish stocks targeted for food, but also through overfishing of species caught unintentionally. This can include endangered species such as some sharks, rays, and turtles,” the council continued. Plants, however, are a much more environmentally friendly, sustainable way to enjoy any fishy cravings. How to make fish sticks with plants The recipes below require a little more time in the kitchen, but they deliver all the same delicious taste and texture as frozen fish sticks, just without the processed fish. BECOME A VEGNEWS VIP : Get exclusive product deals, freebies, and perks galore! Isa Chandra Moskowitz 1 Crispy Baked Tofu Fish Sticks With Tartar Sauce Made with a combination of ingredients like extra-firm tofu, tamari, lemon juice, nori powder, and panko breadcrumbs, these super tasty vegan fish sticks are baked, not fried. For the best results, serve with a delicious homemade vegan tartar sauce, some fresh parsley, and a little extra nori powder (for that signature fishy taste). Get the recipe My Darling Vegan 2 Beer Battered Vegan Fish Sticks Cooking with whole ingredients doesn’t mean you have to give up on fried foods, if that’s what you’re craving. These tasty vegan fish sticks are made with hearts of palm and roasted seaweed, before they’re dipped into a beer batter and fried in a cast-iron skillet for the perfect weekend treat. Get the recipe The Veg Life 3 Vegan Jackfruit Fish Sticks With Tartar Sauce Jackfruit does an excellent job of replicating the tender texture of fish in this tasty recipe from The Veg Life, while Old Bay Seasoning helps to bring a little flavor of the sea to the mix. Again, they’re best served with a generous helping of homemade vegan tartar sauce. Get the recipe Jessica in the Kitchen 4 Vegan Hearts of Palm Fish Sticks Again, hearts of palm combine with beer batter in this deliciously crispy version of a British pub staple—fish and chips, of course—from Jessica in the Kitchen. Nori and Old Bay Seasoning are essential for the fishy flavor. “If you’ve been looking for a vegan seafood recipe, this is going to become your go-to anytime you’ve got a craving for something fishy,” says recipe developer Jessica Hylton-Leckie. Get the recipe Let’s Be Vegan 5 Fish Stick Style Fried Eggplant Eggplant is the unexpected star of the show in this delicious fish stick recipe from Let’s Be Vegan. When battered and fried, it has the perfect texture for vegan fish, while kelp seasoning is responsible for that much-needed fishy flavor. “The coolest thing is that you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in a container in your freezer and cook them whenever you want,” says recipe developer Shantelle Gary. Get the recipe DON'T MISS OUT : Get breaking news, recipes, and our weekly vegan deal by signing up for our FREE VegNewsletter 10 Delicious, Protein-Packed Pasta Recipes to Cook Tonight Forget Wearing It—Try These 7 Dairy-Free Mocha Mousse Recipes Potatoes are One of the World’s Favorite Foods—Here’s Why They’re Also Good For Us JUMP TO ... Latest News | Recipes | Guides | Health | Subscribe Charlotte is a VegNews editor and writer based in sunny Southsea on England's southern coast.

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