Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa, who had been seen as a key Republican skeptic of Pete Hegseth’s nomination to lead the Defense Department, said she will support him after his performance at Tuesday’s confirmation hearing. “Our next commander in chief selected Pete Hegseth to serve in this role, and after our conversations, hearing from Iowans, and doing my…
U.S. President Joe Biden says strong leadership under his administration has “laid the foundation” for the incoming Trump administration. He said U.S. support will help Kyiv eventually negotiate a just end to its nearly three-year fight against Russia’s invasion. White House bureau chief Patsy Widakuswara reports.This post was originally published on here
National Book Tokens has named Daydreams Bookshop – small, independent bookshop in Milngavie, just outside Glasgow – as Newcomer of the Year 2025. The annual award is given to new bookshops based on their first full year of National Book Tokens sales and redemptions, as well as other criteria.
Owner Elaine Sinclair and her team have won a trophy, a luxury champagne, wine and food hamper as well as a promotion to National Book Tokens’ large consumer database and social followers.
Daydreams was one of 45 bookshops which opened in 2024, according to the Booksellers Association, and is located near the start of the famous West Highland Way walking route. It only opened in September last year, but stormed ahead to take the award after only four months of trading. The shop offers a “beautiful” range of books and curated additional items from predominantly local suppliers.
Sinclair, owner of Daydreams Bookshop, said: “We are absolutely over the moon that our wee shop has won this national award – what a dream! We only opened our doors in September, so this award is testament to our hard-working team and amazing local community who have been overwhelmingly supportive. Our first Christmas was hectic but joyous in equal measures. We would like to thank our customers for choosing the gift of books and National Book Tokens for Christmas and we look forward to matching them with lots of lovely new books throughout 2025.”
Continues…
Posted on 14 January 2025.
Discover the heart and soul of Portuguese cuisine with Maria Lawton’s second cookbook, At My Portuguese Table: Azorean Cooking and More. Maria, the beloved host of the award-winning PBS series Maria’s Portuguese Table, invites you to experience the rich flavors and cherished traditions of her heritage. Each recipe is a culinary journey back to her family table, filled with the warmth and love that define Portuguese culture. Whether you’re looking to explore new dishes or reconnect with your roots, this cookbook offers a delightful blend of authentic recipes and heartwarming stories that will make your kitchen the heart of your home. Join Maria in celebrating the beauty of Portuguese cuisine and create lasting memories with every meal.
“Lawton brings interested home cooks along on a journey through the landscape of Azorean cooking with dozens of home-cooked recipes. Although many of the dishes speak to the wholesomeness of Iberian peninsula cooking, recipes like Lawton’s queen cakes—Azorean pastries made from corn flour, molasses, cinnamon, and nutmeg—set the book apart and tell the story of her parents’ island origins.” — Jessica S. Levy, Booklist Review
“I want to dive right into At My Portuguese Table and cook everything! Teasingly gorgeous photos and recipes written in a personal and casual style, make this cookbook one that will not sit on the shelf but become a favorite go to for everyday cooking.” — Mary Ann Esposito, host of PBS “Ciao Italia” and author of Ciao Italia: Plant, Harvest, Cook!
“Maria Lawton is fueled by family, food and history. They all come together in how she cooks and how she thinks about cooking. A reader may not have Maria’s traditions, but they can create their own memories with these lessons and recipes.” — Gail Ciampa, Dining Editor, Providence Journal/USA Today
About the Author
Maria Lawton affectionately known as the “Azorean Green Bean,” was born on the stunning Azorean Island of São Miguel, part of the Portuguese archipelago nestled in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Her culinary journey began amidst the vibrant flavors of her homeland. Maria now lives in Southeastern MA, where she and her husband Bob are co-executive producers of the multiple award-winning PBS program “Maria’s Portuguese Table”.
At home, Maria finds solace with her husband Bob, Co-Executive Producer of the show, and their beloved cockapoo, Gracie. Embracing her role as a grandmother, Maria eagerly awaits the day when her grandchildren join her in the kitchen, ensuring the legacy of culinary traditions thrives for generations to come. In addition to her current projects, Maria is also in the process of penning several other books to be published soon, further enriching the world with her culinary wisdom and heartfelt narratives. Find Maria’s website at www.azoreangreenbean.com.
Book Details
Title: At My Portuguese Table: Azorean Cooking
Author: Maria Lawton
Publisher: Peter E. Randall Publisher
Publication Date: November 13, 2024
Language: English
Paperback: 224pp
Available @ Amazon.com
Reading Time: 2 minutesESCP Business School has introduced the Executive Master in Luxury Transformation and Leadership (EMLux), a 15-month, part-time programme aimed at equipping mid-level executives with the expertise to navigate and lead the evolving luxury sector.The EMLux programme offers two study options: a blended format that combines online learning with three immersive seminars in London, Dubai, and Paris, and a fully online format. Both options are designed to provide flexibility for professionals seeking to balance their careers with advanced education.The curriculum is structured around three core pillars:Management excellence. Participants will master luxury brand management principles, including strategy, marketing, and operations, to effectively lead teams and organisations.Innovative technology. The programme explores technologies transforming the luxury industry, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, teaching participants to leverage digital innovations to enhance luxury offerings.Responsible leadership. With sustainability becoming crucial in luxury, this pillar focuses on ethical decision-making, corporate responsibility, and sustainable business models, ensuring leaders can drive growth with integrity.Leveraging ESCP’s extensive network of over 85,000 alumni, the programme offers participants access to industry partnerships and guest lectures from leading luxury brands. This integration provides real-world insights and opportunities to address current challenges in the luxury sector.A significant component of the EMLux is the Capstone Project, where participants apply their learning to a real-world business challenge faced by a luxury brand. This project allows for practical application of theoretical knowledge, fostering innovative problem-solving skills.Ideal candidates for the programme are professionals with a bachelor’s degree and at least five years of work experience. The programme is suited for mid-level to senior executives in luxury, fashion, and related sectors, as well as entrepreneurs and managers leading digital transformation and sustainability initiatives within their organisations.Ana Roncha, academic director at ESCP Business School London, describes the EMLux as “a transformational programme, anchored on ESCP’s unique expertise and reputation, that will empower and inspire you to lead transformation in the industry and rethink the future of luxury.”Professor Kamran Razmdoost, dean of ESCP Business School London Campus, adds: “The luxury industry is transforming in order to meet the requirements of future luxury consumers, utilise tech, and take a lead on sustainability. EMLux is our effort to educate and inspire competent change-makers in the industry who will know luxury very well and redefine luxury practices.”Applications for the EMLux programme are now open, with the next intake scheduled for April 2025. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early due to limited places. Detailed information on the application process, fees, and available scholarships can be found on the ESCP Business School website.Established in 1819, ESCP Business School is recognised as the world’s first business school. With campuses in Berlin, London, Madrid, Paris, Turin, and Warsaw, ESCP offers a range of programmes, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and executive education, all designed to prepare the next generation of business leaders.
U.S. President Joe Biden notified Congress on Tuesday that he intends to delist Cuba as a U.S.-designated state sponsor of terrorism in a deal facilitated by the Catholic Church to free political prisoners on the island. Speaking on the condition of anonymity before the announcement, senior administration officials told reporters that dozens of political prisoners…
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – (January 14, 2025) – The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) unveiled the official 2025 Tennessee Vacation Guide today, offering an insider’s how-to for experiencing world-class destinations and unforgettable moments across the state. Available now, the free printed guide or e-guide can be accessed online at TNvacation.com or picked up in person at any of Tennessee’s 16 Welcome Centers.
This year’s guide offers 50+ compelling reasons to visit, including can’t-miss events and one-of-a kind experiences that belong on your 2025 Tennessee bucket list. Destinations across the state will celebrate milestone events, anniversaries, new attractions, outdoor adventure, top-notch tastes, signature sounds, culture and heritage year-round. The cover art features a woodcut inspired print honoring the legendary Gibson ES-335 guitar, made in Tennessee and cherished by musicians worldwide.
Reasons to Visit in 2025: Musical Milestones, Outdoor Adventures and Unique Attractions
Musical Milestones: Celebrate 100 years of country music at the legendary Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, featuring special performances, surprise guests and iconic sounds throughout the year. Visit Memphis’ Graceland during Elvis Presley’s 90th birthday year, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and history of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
World-Class Attractions: Dollywood marks its 40th season in 2025, offering family-friendly fun in the Smoky Mountains. Visit the recently renovated Sunsphere in Knoxville, complete with an enhanced visitor’s experience and nod to the original theming of the 1982 World’s Fair.
Visit Jackson, Tennessee
Stimulate the Madison County economy for residents and businesses through the thoughtful promotion, coordination and preservation of tourism.
The Great Outdoors: Discover Tennessee’s natural beauty with endless waterfalls, rivers, caves and trails. Go fishing at one of 14 Bill Dance Signature Lakes, hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or take in the sights while cycling through the state’s newly added Bike Tennessee routes.
Must-See Events: Don’t miss the MLB Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway. Coming in August 2025, this event will feature a home run with the first Major League Baseball game played in Tennessee as the Atlanta Braves take on the Cincinnati Reds.
Signature Savories and Sweets: Savor culinary staples uniquely made in Tennessee, including MoonPies in Chattanooga, Memphis barbecue and Nashville Hot Chicken.
Whether you’re a music lover, foodie, adventurer or thrill-seeker, 2025 is the perfect year to experience all Tennessee has to offer. Plan your trip today by visiting TNvacation.com/guide and join the conversation on social media with @TNvacation using hashtag #TNSoundsPerfect.
About Tennessee’s Official 2025 Vacation Guide
The 150-plus page magazine, produced by Franklin-based Journal Communications, Inc., captures Tennessee’s scenic beauty, rich culture, diverse offerings and warm hospitality. Readers will uncover can’t-miss music venues, locally owned restaurants, epic family adventures and more. Distributed to nearly 500,000 visitors annually, the guide serves as inspiration for travelers seeking an authentic Tennessee experience.
About Tennessee Department of Tourist Development
The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is dedicated to driving economic growth and tourism in all 95 counties. TDTD’s global marketing efforts increase visitation to Tennessee, which boosts tax revenue, creates jobs and attracts new investment across the state. Tennessee is a global destination of choice offering visitors world-class music, live entertainment, family-friendly experiences, charming communities, innovative and classic culinary creations, renowned scenic beauty and outdoor adventure—all centered at the crossroads of rich history and unrivaled hospitality. Vacations “sound perfect” in Tennessee. Visit TNvacation.com and follow @TNvacation on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for travel inspiration.
For more Tennessee news, click here.
The family rescued Bernie in December. After months of care, his reality has completely transformed.
CLARENCE CENTER, N.Y. — Buffalo Bernie, a local piglet that was rescued after birth, is capturing hearts with his inspiring story of survival. His incredible journey has even inspired a children’s book.
“I got a lot of feedback, people telling me that, you know, it’s like the perfect material for a children’s book. So I went to work,” Richelle Zawacki, Bernie’s mom and author of the book “Buffalo Bernie,” said.
“Bernie was critically injured by his mother a few hours after birth, and we rescued him at eight hours old and took him into the home, and he needed around-the-clock care,” Zawacki said.
The family rescued Bernie in December. After months of care, his reality completely transformed.
“The wound is closed, no more wound care, eating solid food. So the book was really about his journey and his determination to kind of survive,” Zawacki said.
The book has already resonated with readers, with 200 copies sold. Even Amazon has taken notice, nominating “Buffalo Bernie” for Best Book of the Month and listing it as an Amazon top seller.
“We thought that it might get a little bit of attention kind of from the start, because of the amount of attention that Bernie has gotten. We didn’t think that we’d get nominated for the best book of the month or that it would be the top seller. I mean, that’s wild – to be the top seller on Amazon,” Zawacki said.
This is just the beginning for Bernie.
“There’s going to be more Buffalo Bernie books coming out. It’s going to be a series,” Zawacki said.
Bernie’s journey is far from over, and the family who saved him in Clarence Center is cherishing every moment.
“It’s been a very rewarding journey with him,” Zawacki said.
You can find Buffalo Bernie on Amazon. You can follow along with his journey on Facebook.
Are you ready for Buffalo Bernie, the Childrens Book to drop on Amazon? So are we!
But until then, we’d like to get…Posted by Bernie’s Journey on Friday, January 3, 2025
This vision was outlined by VBUK Chairman Phuong Hoang during the Spring Gala Dinner 2025, held in London on January 13 (local time), where the association looked back at its 2024 achievements and charted the course for the year ahead.
Vietnamese Ambassador to the U.K. Do Minh Hung reaffirmed the embassy’s full support to VBUK, aiming to expand its membership, boost trade and investment activities between Vietnam and the U.K., and bridge Vietnamese companies in the U.K. with their domestic counterparts.
He highlighted Vietnam’s impressive socio-economic performance in 2024, with a remarkable economic growth rate of 7.09% and a GDP nearing USD 500 billion, placing Vietnam among the world’s top 35 largest economies.
Trade has been a cornerstone of the two countries’ strategic partnership, growing steadily since 2021. In 2024, bilateral trade surpassed USD 8 billion for the first time, reaching over USD 8.4 billion, an 18% annual increase. Notably, Vietnam’s exports to the U.K. alone exceeded USD 7 billion, marking a year-on-year rise of 18.9%. On the investment front, the U.K. remains Vietnam’s 12th largest foreign investor, with direct investment totaling USD 5 billion.
Reflecting on VBUK’s activities in 2024, Chairman Hoang highlighted several key initiatives, including online workshops to share business insights and provide updates on policies and taxes and improvements in management skills and competitiveness among members. VBUK also welcomed trade promotion delegations from various Vietnamese localities and facilitated trade exhibitions to showcase Vietnamese products and services.
To expand its outreach, the association already collaborated with business associations from the Republic of Korea and Europe, and attended major events such as the European Business Forum and the European Business Summit to explore global business opportunities.
Beyond business, VBUK launched cultural and sports activities for the Vietnamese community in the U.K., including golf and football tournaments, Lunar New Year and Mid-Autumn Festivals. The association also joined charity programs to supporting Vietnamese communities during challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the market fire in Poland, and Typhoon Yagi.
The Spring Gala Dinner featured lively music performances, fun quizzes and lucky draws, creating a joyful and united atmosphere during the early days of the New Year.
Established in 2006, VBUK has grown into a vital link for Vietnamese businesses in the U.K., aiding export-import activities and capital mobilization, and fostering partnerships with U.K. companies interested in Vietnam. With over 100 members, including enterprises and entrepreneurs, it continues to be a launchpad to foster a pro-business environment between the two nations.
Source: VNA
Pattaya thrives as a top destination for Chinese and Indian tourists, with Chinese visitors driving spending through high volumes and attractions, while Indian tourists outspend per capita on luxury weddings, nightlife, and business events. Both markets are vital to Pattaya’s vibrant economy. PATTAYA, Thailand – In Pattaya, both Chinese and Indian tourists are significant contributors…