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Today — 15 January 2025Main stream

House GOP resolution would overturn Biden's gas water heater ban

15 January 2025 at 07:17

EXCLUSIVE: A new, GOP-introduced congressional resolution could block President Biden's recent ban on natural gas water heaters, Fox News Digital has learned.

In the waning days of the Biden administration, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced a new rule banning non-condensing, natural gas-fired water heaters by 2029 in an effort to reduce carbon emissions. Republicans in Congress, however, are seeking to intervene.

On Wednesday, Rep. Gary Palmer, R-Ala., introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA), which allows Congress to overturn rules enacted by federal agencies, to circumvent the administration's appliance crackdown, shared first with Fox News Digital.

"It's a radical ban on water heaters. Another example of government overreach under the Biden administration on their way out the door. They care nothing about consumers," Palmer told Fox News Digital in an exclusive interview. 

NEW BIDEN WATER HEATER BAN WILL DRIVE UP ENERGY PRICES FOR POOR, SENIORS: EXPERT

Proponents of Biden's regulation, such as the Appliance Standards Awareness Project (ASAP), suggest it will eliminate 32 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions from water heaters sold over 30 years. 

But Palmer said it will have serious economic implications on working Americans, given the amount a household would have to pay out of pocket for a new water heater that complies with the rule.

The Alabama congressman expressed confidence that the CRA is going to pass in the House, as several other Republican lawmakers have signed on as sponsors.

Rep. Eric Burlison, R-Mo., one of the cosponsors of the CRA, told Fox that "Joe Biden's last-ditch effort to ban gas water heaters in his final days in office is nothing short of another green energy scam."

"This latest assault on American consumers isn't about saving the planet; it's about control, higher costs, and forcing an unsustainable, radical agenda on every household," Burlison said in a statement shared with Fox News Digital. "It's time we stand up against this tyranny of regulations and protect the freedoms and choices of the American people." 

NEW. NYC ‘CHAR BROIL’ RULE WOULD FORCE RESTAURANTS TO CUT EMISSIONS BY 75%

Other Republican co-sponsors include Reps. Julia Letlow of Louisiana, Mike Collins of Georgia, Randy Weber of Texas, Stephanie Bice of Oklahoma, Barry Moore of Alabama, Andy Ogles of Tennessee, Claudia Tenney of New York, Russ Fulcher of Idaho, Jack Bergman of Michigan, Dan Crenshaw of Texas, Michelle Fischbach of Minnesota, Jeff Hurd of Colorado, and Jim Baird of Indiana.

The National Propane Gas Association also supports overturning the ban, telling Fox that it "threatens to eliminate the non-condensing instantaneous gas water heaters market."

"This rule would compel families to replace their existing equipment with unnecessary expensive retrofits, imposing an undue financial burden for a marginal level of energy savings and questionable economic benefits," Steve Kaminski, President and CEO of the National Propane Gas Association told Fox News Digital.

Biden has introduced regulations on several different household appliances during his term, such as washing machines, gas stoves, and ceiling fans. 

But the Republican-controlled congress is reportedly going to be "very aggressive in rolling back" some of the regulations that evolved from Biden's climate agenda, Palmer said.

Penguins star Evgeni Malkin has 3 Stanley Cup rings stolen in home burglary

15 January 2025 at 07:07

Pittsburgh Penguins star Evgeni Malkin is the latest athlete to have his home burglarized.

Malkin’s three Stanley Cup rings were among the items taken in the robbery, per KDKA-TV.

The 38-year-old’s home was broken into on the day the Penguins were playing the Ottawa Senators.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Malkin’s Penguins lost 5-0 to the Senators on Saturday, but the star forward didn’t play due to an upper-body injury. 

"We are working closely with local authorities and team security," the team said in a statement late Tuesday night. "Malkin has requested that his privacy be respected during this time, and we will have no further comment on the matter."

KDKA-TV also reported that Malkin’s home security system was down during the robbery and that his safe was left open.

Malkin has been in the NHL for 19 seasons, spending them all with the Penguins. He won the Hart Trophy for the league’s most valuable player in 2011-2012, and has 1,328 points (506 goals, 822 assists) in his career. 

LUKA DONČIĆ'S HOME BURGLARIZED, ADDING TO LIST OF TARGETED HOMES OF HIGH-PROFILE ATHLETES

The FBI warned professional sports leagues late last month that South American organized criminal groups were behind a string of home invasions, according to ABC News. The report said the groups conduct "physical and technical surveillance" to prep for the burglaries. They use social media to get an idea of where and when a person will be gone from their home, and then they make their mark.

Both the NFL and NBA sent memos to teams about home security measures in November following the break-ins of some of their athletes' homes.

Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce had their homes broken into in October.

While the Cincinnati Bengals were playing against the Dallas Cowboys in December, quarterback Joe Burrow’s home was targeted. 

In the NBA, Minnesota Timberwolves Mike Conley Jr.’s home was burglarized on Sept. 15 while he was attending a Minnesota Vikings game. 

Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis had his home broken into on Nov. 2. 

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Dončić's home was burglarized at the end of December.

The Associated Press contributed to this report. 

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

The FDA has banned Red No. 3, a synthetic dye used in candy, cereals, and Tylenol

15 January 2025 at 07:07
Red food dye
Red food dye

John Greim/LightRocket via Getty Images

The Food and Drug Administration has banned the use of a specific red dye in food products.

Red No. 3, a synthetic dye which gives a cherry hue to candies, sodas, and some medications, has been linked to cancer and ADHD in some studies.

"The FDA cannot authorize a food additive or color additive if it has been found to cause cancer in human or animals," Jim Jones, the FDA's deputy director for human foods, said in a statement.

"Evidence shows cancer in laboratory male rats exposed to high levels of FD&C Red No. 3."

Read the original article on Business Insider

'TikTok refugees' are joining Chinese app RedNote. Here's how to use it.

15 January 2025 at 06:50
composite image of the rednote logo and feed
Xiaohongshu is popping off as TikTok's future hangs in the balance.

Jordan Hart/BI

  • Americans are flocking to Xiaohongshu as a potential TikTok ban looms in the US.
  • Xiaohongshu, known as RedNote, offers similar short-form video content to TikTok.
  • The app, founded in 2013, reached over 200 million users by 2019.

Americans are flocking to another China-based social media app as a potential TikTok ban looms.

Xiaohongshu has risen to the top of the App Store in the US as so-called TikTok refugees search for apps that provide similar short-form video content. The name translates to "little red book" in English but it's referred to as RedNote or Red Book by English speakers.

Its format isn't much different from TikTok, and some familiar faces have already started popping up in the "Explore" section. It's unclear if users are posing as celebrities on the platform, but actor Selena Gomez's alleged profile has a verified check mark next to her name. It looks like Gomez has been posting there since as early as 2023.

composite image of  Xiaohongshu feed
American creators have started posting English content to RedNote.

Jordan Hart/BI

Most of the app's instructions are set in English once you choose the language, but there are still aspects written in Chinese. Xiaohongshu describes itself as "a lifestyle platform for young people" founded in 2013. The site says it reached over 200 million users in 2019.

"Users can record their daily lives, share their lifestyles, and interact based on their interests through short videos, pictures and texts," it said on its "About" page.

It's still up for debate on where most Americans will go for short-form video content if a TikTok ban goes into effect. Instagram reels, YouTube shorts, and apps like Lemon8 have all been touted as alternatives.

Here's how to get started on RedNote.

composite image of Red Note login page
Create a profile with your phone number.

Jordan Hart/BI

First, you'll have to agree to terms of services related to how data is collected and shared. Then, you can create an account using your phone number.

You can decide what sort of content you're interested in viewing, like fashion, food, and reading, and access feeds related to them. Like TikTok, there's a "For You" page to browse videos and "Shop" section that doesn't have much English translation.

Composite image of RedNote profile and RedNote shop
Your profile will have some Chinese terms on it.

Jordan Hart/BI

From there, it's not much different from TikTok. You can like, share, comment, and favorite videos. Americans have taken the app by storm.

Your profile functions similarly to TikTok, with a bio, profile picture, and a customizable username.

Representatives for Xiaohongshu didn't immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

Over on TikTok, users are still unsure which app will prevail, but RedNote has been the Apple App Store's No. 1 download for the last few days.

Read the original article on Business Insider

I've been on 14 cruises so far. Here are 9 things every traveler should do to have a perfect trip.

15 January 2025 at 06:42
A massive cruise ship at sea.
After going on 14 cruises, I've picked up lots of tips to ensure the best trip possible.

Kelly Magyarics

  • I love cruising and have picked up lots of tips to ensure the best possible experience on board.
  • To avoid any possible delays, I I highly recommend building ample travel time into your itinerary.
  • If your budget permits, it's worth booking a private enclave or treating yourself to other upgrades.

Cruises are a lot of fun but can require some planning to ensure everything goes smoothly. Over the past few years, I've been on cruises to places like the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and the Panama Canal.

However, I used to be cruise-averse, mainly because of the stories I'd heard about overcrowded buffet lines and pool decks, and being trapped on a ship with thousands of people.

I've since come to enjoy most things about this kind of trip, mainly because I've learned there's an itinerary and a ship for every type of cruiser. I've also gleaned tips and hacks during my journeys to avoid the crowds and make the experience feel more special.

Here are nine tips I've learned that have made sailing less stressful and more enjoyable.

Arrive the day before the cruise departs

Although it might be tempting to save money on a hotel by booking a flight for the day you depart, the potential stress isn't worth it.

Delays and cancellations due to weather or mechanical issues might mean that you arrive at the dock after embarkation — and the ship won't wait for you.

I highly recommend building ample travel time into your itinerary — plus, you'll get to start your vacation a day sooner.

Book restaurants as soon as you board

Three grilled shrimp with olives, tomatoes, and arugula on a white plate.
It's a good idea to get reservations settled as soon as possible.

Kelly Magyarics

Getting on the ship is exciting, and you'll understandably want to explore the pool deck or hang out on your balcony. Before you do, though, hit up the concierge to make restaurant reservations.

The most popular restaurants and reservation times will likely book up quickly, especially on sea days when everyone is on board.

Getting your preferred times and spots for dining will give you peace of mind — especially if you're cruising with a large group — allowing you to relax and enjoy your sailing.

Consider skipping port to enjoy the ship

Conventional wisdom might lead you to believe that a day at sea is the best time to enjoy all the ship has to offer.

When all the passengers are on board, though, the pool will likely be woefully crowded, spa appointments may be difficult to book, and there will probably be long lines for waterslides and other attractions.

If your cruise is making a port stop at a locale that doesn't really excite you, there's no crime against staying on board and blissfully having the ship practically to yourself.

Book excursions directly through the cruise line

The author looks out at a body of water while standing on a dirt path with red plants on a cloudy day.
I don't recommend booking outside excursions.

Kelly Magyarics

If you do a Google search for tours and things to do at your various port stops, you'll inevitably find lots of operators whose prices are cheaper than similar activities offered through your cruise line.

However, if you book the official excursions, the ship's activities director knows where you are. So, if there's a delay or hold-up getting back to the ship, they'll wait for you.

On the flip side, if you do your own thing and then hit traffic after sunbathing at a local beach in Aruba or going on a taco crawl on Cozumel, you may end up getting left behind.

Spring for breakfast in bed

If waiting in line for pancakes and bacon first thing in the morning isn't your thing, I recommend ordering room service at least once during your trip.

The service may incur a small surcharge, but sipping coffee while enjoying an omelette and fruit platter on your balcony is the perfect, solitary way to start the day.

Check out the back of the ship

The author takes a selfie at the back of a ship, with ripples in the ocean behind her.
I love watching the wake at the back of the ship.

Kelly Magyarics

My favorite part of the ship is the back, referred to as the "aft."

It's relaxing and borderline mesmerizing to watch the wake the ship leaves behind. However, in talking with my fellow passengers over the years, not everyone heads back there.

Your ship may even have a bar or restaurant overlooking the wake. Even if it doesn't, I recommend grabbing a coffee or a cocktail and heading to the back of the ship, which is arguably the most zen-like area.

Consider staying in a private enclave

If your cruise line offers it and you can afford it, book a cabin in a private enclave, like the Yacht Club on MSC Cruises, The Haven on Norwegian Cruise Line, and the Suite Class on Royal Caribbean.

Each aforementioned experience comes with amenities like a more sumptuous cabin, and a separate pool deck, restaurant, and lounge — all of which feel like an oasis from the crowds.

These VIP passengers also get priority check-in and a butler who can make the best reservations for restaurants and shows.

Although the experience doesn't come cheap, it lends a feeling of exclusivity to the on-board experience.

Bring attire for theme nights

Kelly poses in front of a chandelier, wearing a white dress and holding a Champagne glass.
When packing for a cruise, it's a good idea to check for theme nights.

Kelly Magyarics

FOMO can be strong on gala night, white night, or for a poolside pajama party if you don't have something fitting to wear.

Check the cruise line's website or app ahead of time to find out if there are theme nights — and pack accordingly.

On cruise lines with dress codes, you may be excluded from certain dining options if it's an elegant night and you show up in shorts and flip-flops.

Treat yourself to one special experience

Even if you're budget-conscious, it's nice to upgrade yourself during your cruise.

This could mean a multi-course tasting menu at one of the upscale dining concepts, an afternoon at the thermal spa or hydrotherapy circuit, a high-end excursion like a private sunset sail, or an expensive bottle of wine that's not included in your drink package.

Sure, part of the allure of a cruise is that many things are already included, but adding something extra can make the trip more memorable.

Read the original article on Business Insider

WhatsApp adds new camera effects, stickers, and faster reactions

15 January 2025 at 07:01

WhatsApp has announced four improvements to the app, including making it faster and easier for you to react to messages with your most-used emoji.

Parent company Meta says it wanted to start the new year by making the app more fun and easier to use, with a set of four enhancements …

more…

‘RHOBH’ recap: Kyle Richards reveals text between her and PK Kemsley amid feud with Dorit

15 January 2025 at 06:47
We are recapping Season 14 episode 7 of “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.” Sutton shocks Kyle and Garcelle by bringing up Mauricio’s alleged infidelity. At Erika’s divorce party at Chuck E. Cheese, Kyle reveals messages exchanged between her and PK, that Dorit doesn’t know about. Make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you...

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