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Cracker Barrel New Logo: A Fresh Look or a Risky Break from Tradition?
When Cracker Barrel quietly revealed its new logo, the internet didn’t stay quiet for long. A brand that has always thrived on nostalgia—wooden rocking chairs, checkerboard tables, and warm biscuits—suddenly thrust itself into a storm of debates. For some, the redesign is a refreshing breath of modern air. For others, it feels like the slow unraveling of a beloved American tradition.
By Fazal Ur Rahman5 months ago in The Swamp
Amazon now sells used Hertz rental cars
Amazon has once again expanded its vast marketplace in a way that surprises industry analysts and excites consumers. The company that began as an online bookseller and grew into a retail and logistics empire is now selling used Hertz rental cars directly on its platform. This move demonstrates how Amazon continues to blur the lines between traditional commerce and digital convenience while further cementing its influence across multiple industries.
By GLOBAL NEWS5 months ago in The Swamp
Rates of West Nile Virus Increasing Throughout Philadelphia Region
West Nile Virus cases are rising throughout the Philadelphia region. As the number of cases of West Nile Virus (WNV) continues to rise throughout the summer, health officials in the Philadelphia area are raising the alarm. The mosquito-borne illness, which has been present in Pennsylvania since the beginning of the 2000s, is experiencing a significant resurgence, with an increase in the number of human cases and positive mosquito pools. In Philadelphia, Montgomery, Delaware, Bucks, and Chester Counties, the presence of the virus-carrying mosquitoes has been confirmed to be higher than usual. According to data from environmental surveillance, the primary disease-carrying Culex species of mosquito have found ideal breeding conditions thanks to warmer temperatures, recent heavy rainfall, and persistent humidity. Officials say that although the rise isn't yet considered an outbreak, the pattern is troubling enough to warrant increased mosquito control efforts. In particular in areas where mosquito samples have tested positive, crews are spraying insecticides in targeted neighborhoods. Local governments are urging residents to take preventative measures seriously and keeping a daily eye on traps. The bite of an infected mosquito is how West Nile Virus gets into people. One in five people who contract the virus will experience fever, headaches, body aches, nausea, and fatigue. The majority of people who contract the virus will not experience any symptoms. The virus can cause neurological problems like meningitis or encephalitis in severe cases, especially in older people or those with weaker immune systems. These conditions, which can be fatal, necessitate immediate medical attention. The Philadelphia region has not seen such widespread positive mosquito pools since 2018, when dozens of human cases and several fatalities were reported across Pennsylvania. This year's increase has sparked concern because of this. Climate change may be contributing to the rise, experts warn. Mosquito populations are able to survive in greater numbers thanks to warmer winters, and wet springs and summers increase the amount of standing water in which the insects can breed. Dr. Philadelphia's Health Commissioner, Cheryl Bettigole, emphasized that vigilance is essential despite the low overall risk to any individual. Bettigole offered this explanation: "We are seeing higher mosquito activity carrying West Nile Virus than we typically expect at this point in the season." “We want residents to protect themselves by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants during peak mosquito hours, and eliminating standing water around their homes.”
By GLOBAL NEWS5 months ago in The Swamp
Powerball Jackpot Rockets Past $600 Million Ahead of Monday Night Drawing
Before the Monday night drawing, the Powerball jackpot surges past $600 million. Before Monday night's drawing, the Powerball jackpot has increased to an eye-popping $655 million, making it the largest prize of the year thus far and one of the largest in recent history. Since the last grand prize win on May 31st, when a lucky ticket holder in California won the top prize, the jackpot has grown steadily. Since then, no player has been successful in matching all six numbers, and the jackpot has rolled over thirty times in a row. This long streak without a winner has fueled anticipation and ticket sales nationwide, as millions of hopefuls line up for their shot at fortune.
By GLOBAL NEWS5 months ago in The Swamp
Pixel 9 Pro Fold Slashed by $600 Ahead of Pixel 10 Launch
Prior to the launch of the Pixel 10, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold received a price cut of around $600. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold has just received a significant price reduction of 600 dollars, amidst the growing anticipation for Google's next generation of foldable devices. The phone, which had a starting price of $1,799 for the 256 GB model, is now available at major retailers for just $1,199. This is the lowest price since the Pixel 10 was first released, and it comes just a few days before Google's upcoming event, where the Pixel 10 lineup, including the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, is expected to be unveiled. This timing is not random. This kind of price drop is a common tactic used by manufacturers to get rid of old models and make room for new ones. This presents buyers with a one-of-a-kind opportunity: a premium, cutting-edge foldable smartphone at a significantly reduced price. What distinguishes the Pixel 9 Pro Fold? Launched in August 2024, the device represented a bold evolution in Google’s foldable strategy. It improved both displays while building on the foundation laid by the first Pixel Fold. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold is one of the thinnest foldables available, measuring just 5.1 millimeters thick when opened. This makes it easier to carry and more comfortable to use. A 6.3-inch external screen and a larger 8-inch internal Super Actua Flex screen are the two high-quality displays on the phone. Both have refresh rates of 120 hertz, ensuring smooth scrolling and excellent gaming performance. The device has a high-end feel thanks to its polished and sleek design, which puts it in good company with foldables from Samsung and other brands. The phone is powered by Google's Tensor G4 processor and has 16 gigabytes of RAM. Fast multitasking, dependable performance, and strong integration with Google's AI features are all guaranteed by this. Users have access to storage capacities of 256 GB and 512 GB, providing ample space for media, apps, and productivity tools. The camera system is another highlight. It includes a 48 megapixel wide lens, a 10.5 megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 10.8 megapixel telephoto lens offering 5 times optical zoom and up to 20 times digital Super Res Zoom. While reviewers praised the setup overall, some noted that it still fell slightly short of the excellent imaging offered by the non-folding Pixel 9 Pro. In particular, low-light photography and telephoto shots left room for improvement.
By GLOBAL NEWS5 months ago in The Swamp
Spain at 'extreme risk' of new wildfires as 14 blazes spread
Authorities in Spain have issued a warning that large portions of the country are at “extreme risk” as a result of soaring temperatures, strong winds, and prolonged drought conditions combining to create a hazardous environment. As a result, Spain is once again facing the devastating threat of wildfires. Officials have confirmed that 14 separate fires are currently burning, putting a strain on resources and necessitating emergency services to fight fires in multiple locations. The fires, which have already destroyed thousands of hectares, emphasize Spain's increasing difficulty in dealing with climate-driven natural disasters. Numerous provinces have been issued red alerts by meteorological agencies, stressing that the perfect tinderbox of heatwaves and dry vegetation exists. Temperatures have frequently surpassed 40 degrees Celsius in parts of Andalusia, Extremadura, and Catalonia, well above seasonal averages. Because even a small spark can spread uncontrollably in a matter of minutes, these conditions make forests, farmland, and rural communities extremely vulnerable. The wind has been blowing at speeds that make it possible for fires to leap over roads, rivers, and other natural barriers in many places, making efforts to contain them more difficult. The most severe fires, according to authorities, are raging in Galicia, Valencia, and Aragón. A thick layer of smoke has engulfed entire towns in Galicia, necessitating the evacuation of hundreds of residents. In order to strengthen operations, additional firefighters from nearby provinces have been brought in to work night and day. Meanwhile, in Valencia, flames have already devoured extensive areas of pine forest, with local mayors calling the destruction unprecedented in recent years. Aragón has also seen rapid fire spread in rugged terrain, making it difficult for ground crews to reach the heart of the fires.
By GLOBAL NEWS5 months ago in The Swamp
Crypto Firm Bullish Rockets 84% in Blockbuster IPO Debut
Crypto Firm Bullish Rockets 84% in Blockbuster IPO Debut On its first day of trading, cryptocurrency exchange Bullish raised a remarkable 1.1 billion dollars, a stunning display of investor enthusiasm as it surged 84% above its initial public offering price. One of the most successful public listings for a crypto-linked company in recent memory, this performance hints at investors' renewed interest in digital asset exposure. Bullish priced its debut at 37 dollars per share, exceeding earlier guidance of 28 to 33 dollars. The offering consisted of 30 million shares, raising approximately 1.11 billion dollars in proceeds and placing the company’s initial valuation around 5.4 billion dollars. On debut day, shares opened near 90 dollars, soared to an intraday high of 118 dollars, and settled at 68 dollars, still representing a robust 84% premium over the IPO price.
By GLOBAL NEWS5 months ago in The Swamp
US national debt surges to record breaking 37 trillion
US debt rises to a record-breaking 37 trillion dollars. The US Treasury Department confirmed on August 12, 2025, that the national debt has reached 37 trillion dollars. According to pre-pandemic forecasts, this level was not expected to be reached until after 2030. This milestone demonstrates the rapid pace of borrowing in recent years, driven by unprecedented spending responses to the COVID 19 pandemic and recent tax and spending legislation that has widened the federal deficit. The new tax cuts and spending programs that were enacted earlier this year will, according to the Congressional Budget Office, generate more than four trillion dollars in additional borrowing over the next ten years. While supporters of these measures argue that they stimulate growth and competitiveness, opponents warn that they deepen fiscal imbalances and make the nation more susceptible to economic shocks. The country has added trillions at a record pace in just over five years, which is particularly striking when compared to the previous quarter century, when the debt grew more gradually. In the past two years alone, the federal government has been adding roughly one trillion dollars to the debt every five months, more than double the historical average rate. This acceleration is particularly striking when compared to the previous quarter century, when the debt grew more gradually. Before 2020, debt projections showed a steady but slower rise, with the 37 trillion mark coming much The Peter G. Peterson Foundation's chief executive officer, Michael Peterson, has expressed concern about the consequences of such a rapid debt accumulation. He points out that large and growing federal borrowing puts upward pressure on interest rates, raises costs for consumers and businesses, reduces private sector investment, and creates a cycle that results in more borrowing, higher interest payments, and an ever-increasing debt load. The Government Accountability Office has also outlined the real-world effects of rising debt on Americans. Rising national debt can raise borrowing costs for consumers, making credit cards, mortgages, and car loans more expensive. Businesses may have less access to capital, which could limit hiring, wage growth, and investment. Rising debt also contributes to inflationary pressures, making everyday goods and services more expensive. Beyond the dollar figure, analysts point to the debt to GDP ratio as a crucial indicator of fiscal health. As of the middle of 2025, this ratio is still historically high, and if current trends continue, it is on track to surpass the peak reached during World War II by 2027. Mandatory programs like Social Security and Medicare consume a significant portion of the budget, and rapidly rising interest costs make it difficult for lawmakers to reduce deficits without deeply affecting politically sensitive areas. Despite these concerns, the United States still has advantages that a lot of other countries don't have. The US dollar is still the world's primary reserve currency, and there is still a strong demand for Treasury bonds all over the world. This demand has historically allowed the federal government to borrow at relatively low rates. However, some economists warn that if debt continues to grow unchecked, investor confidence could weaken over time, which could force the government to pay higher interest in order to attract buyers. Maya MacGuineas, president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, says that she hopes the milestone will awaken policymakers to the urgency of the problem. She argues that changes will need to be made quickly to prevent the debt from spiraling further out of control. Looking ahead, many fiscal experts hope that crossing the 37 trillion dollar threshold will spark serious discussions in Washington about long-term debt reduction. However, the path forward is uncertain due to political polarization and competing priorities. Both major parties have proposed fiscal reforms, but there are still deep disagreements about whether to focus on spending cuts, revenue increases, or a combination of the two. Without bipartisan agreement, a comprehensive debt reduction is unlikely to occur soon. The federal government is currently carrying the largest debt load in its history and growing at an unprecedented rate. In the coming years, it will be up to policymakers to decide whether they will take decisive steps to slow this growth or whether the country will continue along its current trajectory, which could result in higher costs and less flexibility to respond to future crises. The upcoming debates in Washington will determine whether the 37 trillion mark becomes a turning point toward fiscal discipline or simply another waypoint on the path to even higher levels of national debt. This latest milestone is not just a symbolic number on a balance sheet; rather, it represents a mounting fiscal challenge with real implications for interest rates, wages, inflation, and the overall economic resilience of the United States.
By GLOBAL NEWS5 months ago in The Swamp
U.S. Government to Take Cut of Nvidia and AMD A.I. Chip Sales to China
**U.S. The government will reduce AMD and Nvidia's AI budgets. China Chip Sales** The leading semiconductor companies Nvidia and AMD must give China 15% of sales revenue from specific AI products sold in the Chinese market in exchange for permission to export those chips. The chips in question are Nvidia's H20 model and AMD's MI308, both of which are designed to deliver high performance in AI training and inference workloads. These models were previously restricted under U.S. export rules due to concerns that their capabilities could enhance China's artificial intelligence and military technologies. This arrangement marks a significant departure from traditional export control practices The U.S. government halted sales of these chips to China earlier this year, citing national security risks. The freeze put a lot of pressure on both Nvidia and AMD because the Chinese market is so important to their revenue streams. China is one of the biggest consumers of AI hardware in the world, and a long sales ban would have cost billions of dollars. A compromise between the companies and the government allows limited exports but comes with a 15% revenue cut that goes to the U.S. Treasury. Officials argue that permitting some level of controlled exports keeps U.S. technology integrated into Chinese systems, preventing complete reliance on alternative suppliers such as domestic Chinese chipmakers or competitors from other nations. This foothold could in theory preserve long-term influence in the global AI technology ecosystem. Critics, on the other hand, view the decision as contradictory. They argue that if the chips are truly a security risk, then no percentage of revenue should justify allowing their sale. Additionally, the precedent of monetizing access to sensitive For Nvidia alone, Chinese demand for the H20 could reach several billion dollars per year, making the government's cut a substantial source of revenue. AMD's exposure is less certain, but still potentially significant given the growing demand for high-end AI accelerators in China. This revenue may benefit federal coffers, but the lack of clarity over how it will be used has raised transparency concerns among lawmakers and policy experts. Industry analysts have calculated that the 15% levy could result in billions of dollars flowing to the U.S. The ability to reenter the Chinese market and offset the lower profitability of Chinese sales will determine the financial impact on Nvidia and AMD. Stock market reactions have been mixed up to this point, with some shareholders welcoming any return to sales while others worry that the terms of the agreement could serve as a model for future government demands in other markets or industries. Observers speculate that the agreement may be part of a larger negotiation package, possibly involving concessions on rare earth minerals or other strategically important resources. While no formal link has been established, the timing suggests it may be a factor. The agreement comes amid broader U.S. China trade discussions. The decision raises fundamental questions about whether the best way to manage competition with China is through outright restrictions or through controlled engagement that simultaneously serves economic and strategic goals. How this policy plays out will shape not only the balance between these two global powers but also the rules of the game for technology trade in the years ahead. It reflects the increasingly complex intersection of commerce, technology, and geopolitics in the age of artificial intelligence. It underscores how strategic technologies are now both tools of national power and valuable commodities.
By GLOBAL NEWS5 months ago in The Swamp
Box Office Battle: Weapons Roars to the Top, Freakier Friday Follows in Strong Second
Start ## Box Office Competition: "Weapons" Takes First, "Freakier Friday" Comes in Second Strongly The horror-thriller "Weapons" has taken a commanding lead in a thrilling summer box office battle, opening with an impressive $18.2 million on Friday. In contrast, Disney's "Freakier Friday" had a strong debut, debuting in second place with $12.7 million. ### All of the cylinders are hit by "weapons." *Weapons*, directed by Zach Cregger, smashed into more than 3,200 theaters and made $5.7 million just from previews on Thursday. After just a few recent standouts, it ranks among the highest-grossing opening days for original horror films in the post-pandemic era with its combined Friday total. In a market that is frequently dominated by sequels and superhero blockbusters, industry analysts are now projecting a domestic opening weekend in the range of $42–47 million, a remarkable achievement for an original title. The film is already well on its way to profitability with a production budget of approximately 38 million dollars. The response from critics and the public has been particularly strong. CinemaScore users gave the movie an A–, a remarkable achievement for a horror movie. More than 60% of viewers would "definitely recommend" it to others, according to post-screening polls. Critics have praised the story because of its combination of tense atmosphere, shocking twists, and deeper emotional themes. They see it as more than just another entry in the genre. Cregger, best known for the surprise hit "Barbarian," has once more demonstrated his ability to combine originality and suspense. Not only does "Weapons" provide a few moments of pure terror, but it also tells a multilayered story about grief, loss, and how people deal with their deepest fears. ### "Freakier Friday" Strikes a Sadistic Note Even though "Weapons" took the top spot, "Freaker Friday" also made a big splash. Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis are back in the beloved comedy sequel, which brought the story to a new generation and pleased longtime fans. The movie opened on Wednesday in a few markets and made 3.1 million dollars in previews before it did well on Friday. It now has weekend projections of $30–32 million, which is a great return for a family comedy with a reported $40 million production budget. The film received a positive response from audiences, earning an "A" CinemaScore and high audience ratings across major review platforms. The film has received praise from viewers for retaining the original's charm while introducing new comedic setups and heartfelt scenes. The body-swapping antics that drive the plot are bolstered by the emotional weight of Lohan and Curtis's chemistry, which is still as engaging as ever. Reminiscence-based marketing also contributes to the film's popularity. In its marketing campaign, Disney used callbacks, Easter eggs, and cast photos side-by-side to evoke fond memories of the 2003 film. Many theaters reported sell-out performances on Friday night, indicating that the strategy worked. ### Two Different Routes to Achievement There is no greater contrast between the two films. *Weapons* is aimed squarely at thrill-seekers and fans of horror, and it thrives on atmosphere, dread, and shocking narrative turns. On the other hand, "Freaker Friday" attracts audiences of all ages with its warmth, humor, and family-friendly appeal. Both are thriving at the box office despite their differences. *Weapons* should continue to gain momentum in the coming weeks due to strong word-of-mouth from horror enthusiasts and genre critics. Family audiences and repeat viewers are likely to support "Freakier Friday" throughout its run. *Weapons* has already begun to amass a respectable international following, with its initial day of sales bringing in more than $11 million from international markets. In just 24 hours, it has reached nearly $30 million globally in addition to its domestic haul. In the coming weeks, "Freakier Friday" will expand internationally, where its appeal to people of all generations could generate additional revenue. ### Summer box office increases The results this weekend show how different moviegoers' tastes will be in 2025. When done with care and creativity, original, high-concept horror can still sell out theaters, and a well-executed sequel with a strong nostalgic pull can attract a sizable audience. *Weapons* is a clear win for Warner Bros.' investment in original, director-driven projects and another summer success story. "Freaker Friday" demonstrates for Disney the value of providing audiences with a satisfying continuation of a story they already love and the enduring power of beloved properties. *Weapons* is expected to win the weekend with just over $43 million, while *Freakier Friday* is likely to come in second place with $31 million. Both films win in the end, demonstrating that in today's competitive box office environment, there is room for heartwarming laughs as well as terrifying scares. writing...
By GLOBAL NEWS5 months ago in The Swamp
Gold futures trade off highs as White House to issue clarification on bullion tariffs
After the White House indicated that it would issue a formal clarification regarding the tariffs that are affecting imported bullion, gold futures saw a decline from their record intraday highs on Friday. The move followed a volatile morning in which U.S. gold futures briefly surged past three thousand five hundred thirty dollars per ounce, driven by confusion over whether certain gold bars would be subject to new import duties.
By GLOBAL NEWS5 months ago in The Swamp
Intel’s CEO, Under Attack From Trump, Is Already at Odds With His Board
**The Trump-attacked CEO of Intel Already Disagrees With His Board** Trump's attacks on Intel's CEO have already put him at odds with his board. Intel’s CEO, under attack from Trump, is already at odds with his board. Trump's attacks on Intel's CEO have already put him at odds with his board. Intel’s CEO, under attack from Trump, is already at odds with his board. Intel’s CEO, under attack from Trump, is already at odds with his board. Intel’s CEO, under attack from Trump, is already at odds with his board. Intel’s CEO, under attack from Trump, is already at odds with his board. Intel’s CEO, under attack from Trump, is already at odds with his board. Intel’s CEO, under attack from Trump, is already at odds with his board. Intel’s CEO, under attack from Trump, is already at odds with his board.
By GLOBAL NEWS5 months ago in The Swamp