COMMANDERS: The Commanders and Terry McLaurin have encountered a bump in the road, with the Pro Bowl wide receiver requesting a trade out of Washington as he seeks a contract extension. The team added more depth at the position when it acquired Deebo Samuel. With McLaurin’s contract talks stalled in Washington, the Commanders could rely on Noah Brown, Michael Gallup, K.J. Osborn, Luke McCaffrey and fourth-round pick Jaylin Lane. Head coach Dan Quinn and Co. will get an opportunity to see who could step in if needed. Gallup, among the group, owns the experience and has familiarity with Quinn from their time together in Dallas. Osborn is also a veteran who has filled in nicely when called upon in previous seasons.
PATRIOTS: New England hopes quarterback Drake Maye can take his production to another level in Year 2. In order to help out Maye, the new regime needs to get a much better effort from the ground game. In 2024, Rhamondre Stevenson seriously struggled to protect the ball with seven fumbles (three lost). This week, head coach Mike Vrabel told reporters Stevenson, along with other returning players, have a “fresh, clean slate,” but everyone has to be better in 2025. The Patriots also kept Antonio Gibson and drafted TreVeyon Henderson. Henderson, a dynamic player for Ohio State, brings plenty of intrigue to Foxborough. Despite Henderson being listed No. 3 on the unofficial team depth chart, a strong preseason could see him leap ahead of Gibson — if not Stevenson, too — before Week 1.
Windows 11 for Gamers: How Microsoft’s Latest OS Will Supercharge Your Gaming Experience
The wait is finally over, and Windows 11 has arrived, bringing with it a plethora of exciting new features and improvements that are set to revolutionize the gaming experience. Microsoft’s latest operating system is designed to provide a seamless, high-performance, and visually stunning gaming environment that will take your gaming sessions to the next level.
In this article, we’ll delve into the key features and enhancements that make Windows 11 a must-have for gamers. From improved performance and graphics capabilities to innovative new tools and technologies, we’ll explore how Microsoft’s latest OS will supercharge your gaming experience.
Faster Performance and Improved Responsiveness
One of the most significant advantages of Windows 11 for gamers is its enhanced performance and responsiveness. The new operating system features a revamped kernel, improved memory management, and optimized system resources, all of which contribute to faster loading times, reduced lag, and a more responsive gaming experience.
With Windows 11, you can expect:
Faster game loading times: Get into the action quicker with reduced loading times, thanks to improved storage and caching mechanisms.
Smaller latency: Enjoy a more responsive gaming experience, with reduced latency and faster input recognition.
Better multitasking: Switch between games, apps, and other tasks with ease, without experiencing significant performance drops.
Unparalleled Graphics Capabilities
Windows 11 takes graphics to new heights, with support for the latest technologies and innovations. The operating system includes:
DirectX 12 Ultimate: The latest version of Microsoft’s graphics API, which provides unparalleled performance, features, and compatibility with the latest graphics cards.
Ray Tracing and Variable Rate Shading: Experience stunning, realistic graphics with support for cutting-edge technologies like ray tracing and variable rate shading.
Auto HDR: Automatically enhance your gaming experience with HDR (High Dynamic Range) support, which provides a more immersive and visually stunning experience.
Innovative New Features for Gamers
Windows 11 introduces several innovative new features that are specifically designed with gamers in mind. These include:
Xbox Game Bar: A revamped version of the popular Xbox Game Bar, which provides quick access to features like screenshots, video capture, and live streaming.
Game Mode: A dedicated mode that optimizes system resources for gaming, reducing distractions and improving performance.
Dynamic Refresh Rate: A new feature that adjusts the refresh rate on the fly, providing a smoother and more responsive gaming experience.
Seamless Integration with Xbox and Other Microsoft Services
Windows 11 also provides seamless integration with Xbox and other Microsoft services, making it easy to access and play your favorite games across multiple platforms. With Windows 11, you can:
Stream games from your Xbox console: Use the Xbox app to stream games from your Xbox console to your Windows 11 PC, providing a more convenient and flexible gaming experience.
Access Xbox Game Pass: Get access to a vast library of games with Xbox Game Pass, which provides a flat monthly fee for unlimited access to hundreds of games.
Connect with friends and community: Use the Xbox app to connect with friends, join multiplayer sessions, and participate in online communities.
Conclusion
Windows 11 is a significant upgrade for gamers, providing a faster, more responsive, and visually stunning gaming experience. With its improved performance, unparalleled graphics capabilities, and innovative new features, Windows 11 is the perfect platform for gamers who want to take their gaming sessions to the next level. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, Windows 11 is sure to supercharge your gaming experience and provide hours of entertainment and excitement. So why wait? Upgrade to Windows 11 today and discover a new world of gaming possibilities!
Kelly Ripa has been absent from Live with Kelly and Mark since Monday, Aug. 4
Ripa’s absence comes one week after her husband and co-host Mark Consuelos’ break of his own
A rotation of guests have been stepping in to co-host, including Jackie Tohn and Jenna Dewan
Live with Kelly and Mark is missing one half of its duo this week.
Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos have been co-hosting the daytime talk show together since 2023. This week, however, Ripa, who has been a permanent co-host since 2001, has been absent, with a rotation of guests stepping in.
After I enter Nobody Wants This star Jackie Tohn as co-host during Monday’s episode, he recalled the first time he and Ripa met the actress when she appeared on their show over a year ago.
“When Kelly and I got done meeting you and walked off, we said, ‘Wow, she would be a great fill-in,’ ” Consuelos shared, as Tohn responded, “Really? That makes me want to cry. Thank you.”
After revealing that her parents are “obsessed” with the show, Tohn said they asked her if there was a “world in a universe in the future” where she might replace Ripa — a suggestion she quickly shut down.
Ripa previously told Entertainment Weekly she is “always thinking about retiring.” But during a July 2025 episode of Ripa’s podcast, Let’s Talk Off Camera with Kelly Ripafellow talk show mainstay Oprah Winfrey told Ripa that “it’s not time for you to step away.”
So, where is Kelly Ripa this week? Here’s what to know about the co-host’s absence from Live with Kelly and Mark.
Why isn’t Kelly Ripa on Live with Kelly and Mark this week?
Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos co-host ‘Live with Kelly and Mark’ on April 1, 2025.
Disney/Lorenzo Bevilaqua
Ripa isn’t on Live with Kelly and Mark this week because she’s out for summer vacation. She last appeared on the show on Friday, Aug. 1.
Ripa has had a busy few weeks leading up to her break as she and Consuelos’ new ESPN docuseries, Running with the Wolvespremiered on July 29. The docuseries follows Ripa and Consuelos’ journey as new co-owners of a popular Italian soccer team, per ESPN.
The same week, Ripa appeared on an episode of Kylie Kelce’s podcast, Not Gonna Lie with Kylie Kelce.
Why wasn’t Mark Consuelos on Live with Kelly and Mark last week?
Kelly Ripa and David Muir pose for a photo together in July 2025.
Live with Kelly and Mark/Instagram
Although Ripa is not on the show this week, her co-host recently took a break of his own. During the July 29 episode, Ripa told viewers that Consuelos is “working on a show out in L.A.”
The remainder of the week consisted of a rotation of guest co-hosts, including actor Jerry O’Connell, ABC anchor David Muir, reality TV star Carson Kressley and radio personality Steve Patterson.
After guest co-hosting, Kressley posted a photo with Ripa on Instagram, writing, “LIVING for @livekellyandmark . Thanks to @kellyripa @gelmanlive and the entire amazing team for always making me feel like part of the family !”
Meanwhile, Patterson shared a clip from his episode as co-host on his Instagram, writing, “Thanks for all the love this week. Beyond grateful for the opportunity. And I’ll never be able to thank @kellyripa and @gelmanlive enough for the invitation to come back ❤️❤️❤️.”
Who is replacing Kelly Ripa during her absence?
Jackie Tohn and Mark Consuelos co-host ‘Live with Kelly and Mark’ on Aug. 4, 2025.
Disney/Lorenzo Bevilaqua
Much like when Consuelos was away from the desk, a rotation of guest co-hosts is filling in for Ripa during her absence. The week kicked off with a pre-recorded episode co-hosted by Tohn.
Prior to the episode airing, Tohn shared a behind-the-scenes clip on her Instagram writing, “Tune in tomorrow 8/4 at 9am (check ur local listies)… but only if you’re into watching me have one of the best days of my life. @livekellyandmark.”
The episode kicked off with Consuelos introducing Tohn, who joked that she liked to call herself “Kelly Ripoff.”
The week continued with Step Up actress Jenna Dewan co-hosting alongside Consuelos on Tuesday. The official Live with Kelly and Mark Instagram shared a video on Instagram Stories in which Dewan said it was “the most fun day.”
“I love this,” she said. “I get to come and do this great, fun job.”
Per the show’s website, Rita Ora will be co-hosting on Wednesday, Aug. 6.
When will Kelly Ripa return to Live with Kelly and Mark?
Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos co-host ‘Live with Kelly and Mark’ on July 2, 2025.
Disney/Lorenzo Bevilaqua via Getty
Ripa will return to Live with Kelly and Mark on Monday, August 11, PEOPLE confirmed.
She will rejoin Consuelos to share their thoughts on the latest pop culture news and trends.
Boil Water Notice in Effect for Affected Porter Ranch and Granada Hills Customers as LADWP Crews Continue Work to Repair Broken Large Water Supply Valve Serving Area
LADWP Staff Distributing Water to Affected Customers
A Boil Water Notice is in effect for affected customers in portions of Porter Ranch and Granada Hills as a result of repair work to a broken valve serving the area.
The Boil Water Notice can be accessed by clicking this link: BOIL WATER NOTICE FOR PORTIONS OF PORTER RANCH AND GRANADA HILLS (ladwpnews.com).
Effective immediately, customers located within the affected area need to boil their water before using it to drink, cook, make ice cubes, prepare food such as washing vegetables, or to brush teeth until further notice. This is required to ensure safety and public health. While most customers in the area are without water service, some at lower elevations may still have water service at a low pressure.
More information regarding this incident can be found at www.ladwp.com/WaterQuality which includes the Boil Water Notice as well as an interactive map to enter your address if you need to check if the Boil Water Notice applies to you. Regular updates related to this incident are also being updated on our newsroom at www.ladwpnews.com.
LADWP Service Area Boil Water Notice Interactive Zone Map
BACKGROUND ON WATER LOSS AND ONGOING REPAIR WORK
On Tuesday afternoon, August 5th, while water system crews were making repairs at a pump station that connects to a 10-million-gallon water tank that serves the area, a valve that controls the flow of water broke during repairs and failed to reopen. As a result, the water flowing into a 54-inch-diameter pipe serving the area was cut off.
This has led to a water service outage in the general area bounded by Rinaldi Avenue to the south, Balboa Blvd to the east, De Soto Ave to the west and the foothills & hills to the north. For specific boundaries, please refer to the map below
Map of Affected Communities
LADWP water crews continue working to remove the broken valve to restore water flow to the tank. The location of the valve is over 20 feet below ground where two oil pipelines, a critical fiber optic line, gas line and large boulders have complicated repair efforts. Excavation can only begin after the pipelines are cleared. Current estimate for repairs could take through this weekend to be completed.
LADWP crews are also taking multiple approaches to come up with a temporary solution to route water back to the trunkline sooner as they continue to make permanent repairs. One solution includes pumping water from a nearby Metropolitan Water District of Southern California supply, into LADWP’s 54-inch trunkline supplying the area.
SUPPORT FOR CUSTOMERS To support our customers, LADWP has setup bottled water distribution sites to provide drinking water to customers. At these same locations, we will also provide portable showers, handwashing stations, mobile laundry units, and portable toilets. As of 4pm, LADWP staff have distributed 11,200 cases of water to area residents and businesses, which total 270,000 bottles of water.
The locations in Granada Hills and Porter Ranch are:
Holleigh Bernson Memorial Park, 20500 Sesnon Blvd, Porter Ranch, CA 91326
O’melveny park,17300 Sesnon Blvd., Granada Hills, CA 91344
Intersection of Tampa Ave. And Sesnon Blvd. on the border of Northridge and Porter Ranch
Drinking water is available for pickup 7AM and extended through 9PM today and will remain available in the following days until service is restored.
We are also making arrangements to provide non-potable water to help customers flush their toilets and will have more information available soon.
LADWP is working with the Department of Aging, Department on Disability and the Red Cross to provide support to customers who need special support, including seniors and customers with disabilities and functional needs and will provide additional information as soon as it is available.
We recognize the loss of water to the area is a major inconvenience to our customers and we are doing everything we can to bring back the water to the area as quickly and safely as possible.
We want our customers to know that our crews will work around the clock until repairs are made and we will continue to provide support and information throughout this incident
TSMC workers walk down a hallway in a chipmaking fab in Taiwan. The company is building three such plants in Arizona.
TSMC
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. said on Tuesday that it had detected “unauthorized activities” that led to the discovery of potential trade secret leaks.
The world’s biggest semiconductor manufacturer told CNBC that it has taken “strict” disciplinary action against the personnel involved and that it has also launched legal proceedings.
“TSMC maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward any actions that compromise the protection of trade secrets or harm the company’s interests,” the company said.
“Such violations are dealt with strictly and pursued to the fullest extent of the law. We remain committed to safeguarding our core competitiveness and the shared interests of all our employees.”
Semiconductors have grown in strategic importance in recent years as they have become the key pillar in the boom in artificial intelligence models and applications. Rising geopolitical tensions has put the spotlight on the competitive technological advantages of major firms in the chip supply chain like TSMC and other leaders across the board.
TSMC, headquartered in Taiwan, dominates the market for the manufacturing of the world’s most advanced chips and counts major tech giants including Apple and Nvidia as clients.
As the case is now under judicial review, TSMC is unable to provide further information, the firm said.
TSMC identified the issue early due to its “comprehensive and robust monitoring mechanisms,” the company said, adding that it carried out swift internal investigations.
Nikkei Asia, citing multiple sources familiar with the matter, reported on Tuesday that several former employees of TSMC are suspected of attempting to obtain critical proprietary information on 2-nanometer chip development and production while they were still working at the company.
Production of the 2-nanometer chip is among the leading edge manufacturing processes in the semiconductor industry currently. TSMC said it did not have any additional information to share when asked by CNBC about the Nikkei report.
As the world’s leading chipmaker, TSMC has a treasure trove of intellectual property. By its own account, the company has previously said it has more than 200,000 trade secrets recorded in its internal system.
It is not the first time that TSMC has been the target for potential theft. In 2018, a Taiwanese court indicted a former employee for copying trade secretes related to the 28-nanometer fabrication process, with intent to transfer them to a semiconductor company in mainland China.
In 2023, ASMLwhich makes machines that are required to manufacture the most advanced chips, said that it discovered that a former employee in China had misappropriated data related to its proprietary technology.
The Evolution of Gaming and Performance: A New Era of Immersive Entertainment
The world of gaming has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade, with advancements in technology and hardware leading to unprecedented levels of performance and immersion. The rise of powerful graphics processing units (GPUs), high-speed storage solutions, and optimized software has enabled gamers to experience their favorite titles in stunning detail, with faster load times and more responsive gameplay.
The Importance of Hardware
At the heart of any gaming setup is the hardware, which provides the foundation for a seamless and enjoyable experience. A good GPU is essential for handling the demands of modern games, with popular options including NVIDIA’s GeForce and AMD’s Radeon series. These GPUs offer impressive performance, with features such as ray tracing, artificial intelligence-enhanced graphics, and variable rate shading.
In addition to a powerful GPU, a fast processor and ample memory are also crucial for smooth gameplay. Intel’s Core series and AMD’s Ryzen series are popular choices among gamers, offering high clock speeds and multiple cores to handle the demands of modern titles. Similarly, a sufficient amount of RAM (at least 16 GB) and a fast storage solution, such as a solid-state drive (SSD), help to reduce load times and improve overall system responsiveness.
The Role of Software
While hardware provides the foundation for a good gaming experience, software plays a critical role in optimizing performance and delivering a seamless experience. Game developers use various techniques, such as multicore rendering and asynchronous computing, to take advantage of modern hardware and minimize bottlenecks.
Additionally, software solutions like NVIDIA’s DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and AMD’s FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) use artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance image quality and reduce rendering times. These technologies have been widely adopted by game developers, resulting in improved performance and more detailed graphics.
The Rise of Cloud Gaming
In recent years, cloud gaming has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional gaming setups. Services like Google Stadia, Microsoft xCloud, and NVIDIA GeForce Now allow gamers to play high-quality titles on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs, without the need for expensive hardware.
Cloud gaming offers several advantages, including reduced latency, improved performance, and increased accessibility. With the ability to stream games from remote servers, gamers can enjoy a seamless experience without the need for lengthy downloads or expensive hardware upgrades.
The Future of Gaming and Performance
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more impressive advancements in gaming and performance. The development of new GPU architectures, such as NVIDIA’s Ada Lovelace and AMD’s RDNA 3, promises to deliver significant improvements in performance and power efficiency.
Moreover, the growth of cloud gaming and game streaming services is likely to continue, with more companies entering the market and offering innovative features and technologies. The rise of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) gaming also holds great promise, with the potential to revolutionize the way we experience and interact with games.
Conclusion
The world of gaming and performance has come a long way in recent years, with significant advancements in hardware, software, and cloud gaming. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more impressive innovations and improvements in the years to come. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, the future of gaming has never looked brighter, with a wide range of options and technologies available to suit every need and preference.
Coming from an IT background, I have dived into the U.S. stock market seven years ago by managing portfolio of my family. Starting managing real money has been challenging for the first time, but long hours of mastering fundamental analysis of public companies paid off and now I feel very confident in my investment decisions. My hands-on experience shaped deep understanding of risk, reward and the delicate balance between these two variables. Driven by a desire to share my insights and contribute to the investor community, I embark on this new chapter with Seeking Alpha. My articles will be crafted with clarity and precision, devoid of jargon and fostering accessibility for investors of all experience levels. My background in IT grants me a valuable perspective, particularly when navigating the complexities of technology stocks. Yet, my pursuit of knowledge extends beyond the realm of silicon, encompassing diverse sectors and uncovering promising prospects across the economic landscape. Whether you are a seasoned investor seeking fresh perspectives or a nascent one embarking on your financial voyage, I extend a warm invitation to join me on this intellectual journey. Through collaborative exploration and insightful analysis, let us unlock the secrets of the market and chart a path towards shared financial success.
Analyst’s Disclosure:I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of ZETA either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
ESPN baseball reporter. Covered the L.A. Rams for ESPN from 2016 to 2018 and the L.A. Angels for MLB.com from 2012 to 2016.
The San Diego Padres made yet another move to bolster their chances in 2025, acquiring first baseman Ryan O’Hearn and outfielder Ramon Laureano from the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for six minor leaguers, it was announced Thursday.
In return, the Orioles get left-handed pitcher Boston Bateman, right-handerd pitchers Tyson Neighbors and Tanner Smith, infielders Brandon Butterworth and Cobb Hightower and utility player Victor Figueroa.
The move comes after Padres president of baseball operations A.J. Preller made a shocking move earlier in the day to acquire lights-out closer Mason Miller and controllable starter JP Sears from the Athletics. Later, Preller improved his catching situation by bringing in Freddy Fermin from the Kansas City Royals.
San Diego also added left-hander Nestor Cortes from Milwaukee and utility infielder Will Wagner from Toronto.
In all, the Padres added seven players to their major league roster through five trades.
“I think we have a team that can play deep” into October, Preller said. “We have those needs, and let’s go fill them. … Our team has put us in a position to get excited. I think we made our club better, and we’re looking forward to seeing how it goes in the next few months.”
With O’Hearn and Laureano, Preller addressed an offense that evaluators considered very top-heavy all year.
O’Hearn, an All-Star starter this year, punishes right-handed pitching and is in the midst of a career season, slashing .283/.374/.463 with 13 homers and 43 RBIs. Laureano, too, has had a big offensive year, slashing .290/.355/.529 with 15 homers and 46 RBIs and providing defensive value with his plus arm strength.
Laureano seems to fit in as the every-day left fielder, with O’Hearn getting most of his at-bats at first base or designated hitter. The Nos. 7, 8 and 9 hitters in the Padres’ lineup entered Thursday with by far the lowest OPS in the majors at .584. Now the lineup has a lot more length to it, balancing a top of the order featuring Fernando Tatis Jr., Luis Arraez, Manny Machado and Jackson Merrill.
Laureano, 31, is a .252 hitter in his eight-year MLB career with 97 home runs and 298 RBIs.
“I think we’ve taken a team that’s [already] in position to play in the playoffs, and hopefully rounded it out and given [manager Mike Shildt] and his staff the opportunity to do their thing,” Preller said.
“If you’re going to win a championship, you can’t have any weak links,” he continued. “The pieces fit, and the personalities. I’m looking forward to having a lot of conversation with Shildty about the clubhouse dynamic, and how these guys are going to fit in.”
The Padres kept All-Star closer Robert Suarez, who leads the majors with 30 saves, and inconsistent starter Dylan Cease. Both Suárez and Cease can reach free agency this winter, but Preller declined to make trades that almost certainly would have hurt the current team’s playoff prospects.
Preller told Cease on Wednesday that the Padres wanted to keep him as a front-of-the-rotation starter.
“Our best team has Dylan Cease on it, and I think he understands that,” Preller said.
Cortes and minor league shortstop Jorge Quintana and cash were acquired from the Brewers for outfielder Brandon Lockridge.
The 30-year-old Cortes, sidelined for nearly four months due to a left elbow flexor strain, is on the 60-day injured list. The 2022 All-Star just completed a four-outing rehab stint and had a 1.00 ERA in 18 innings at the Class A and Triple-A levels.
Wagner, the son of Hall of Fame closer Billy Wagner, is batting .237 over 40 appearances this season for Toronto.
The Associated Press and Field Level Media contributed to this report.
Since President Donald Trump’s return to the White House, I’ve noticed a steady stream of rhetoric that attempts to make health and fitness partisan.
Trump announces return of Presidential Fitness Test
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to bring back the Presidential Fitness Test in schools, joined by several professional athletes at the White House.
unbranded – Newsworthy
It’s the heart of summer, and the days are long and toasty. Beaches on the coasts (or Lake Michigan, closer to where I live) are packed and clothing is minimal.
Some people look good showing extra skin. Most of them don’t.
The reality is that more than 70% of Americans are overweight or obese, and the trend has been moving rapidly in the wrong direction, leading to a plethora of preventable health problems and costs associated with them.
It’s concerning, and the effort to combat obesity should be something we can all agree on.
Sadly, it’s not.
Since President Donald Trump’s return to the White House, I’ve noticed a steady stream of rhetoric that attempts to make health and fitness partisan.
If you’re fit and enjoy working out (or even sport a tan), chances are there’s a progressive who will eye you with suspicion of being MAGA.
Sydney Sweeney’s jeans ad triggers liberals. She looks good. They don’t. | Opinion
It’s an extreme example of the “if-Trump-is-for-it, we-must-be-adamantly-against-it” mentality that has infected the left.
To borrow a phrase from former Democratic vice presidential contender Tim Walz, it’s weird.
Trump wants kids to be more fit. Why is that a negative?
Trump brought physical fitness into the limelight on July 31 by signing an executive order reestablishing the Presidential Fitness Test for America’s public school students. The test had been around for decades until the 2012-13 school year, when President Barack Obama replaced it.
The order states: “We must address the threat to the vitality and longevity of our country that is posed by America’s declining health and physical fitness. For far too long, the physical and mental health of the American people has been neglected.”
The rise in obesity and the decline in health is especially disheartening when it comes to the country’s kids.
According to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2024 report, about 20% of children are obese (2 in 5 adults are obese). That’s a sharp increase from when childhood obesity rates were 5% in the 1970s.
Not only is this a national health concern, it’s a national security one, as Trump acknowledges in his executive order.
The CDC report found that only 2 in 5 young adults are weight-eligible and active enough to serve in the military.
“The military has experienced increasing difficulty in recruiting soldiers as a result of physical inactivity, obesity, and malnutrition among our nation’s youth,” retired Army Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling said in the report.
Yet, Trump’s commonsense approach to boost fitness was met with consternation among media progressives.
“Trump is reviving an outdated and problematic practice for American schoolkids,” proclaimed MSNBC.
“Generations of Americans who struggled to complete a pull-up in front of their classmates winced as President Trump announced that he was reinstating the annual assessment,” The New York Times opined.
Opinion: Trump is racking up GOP wins no one else could. What do Never Trumpers say now?
Doing Pilates does not make you an authoritarian. Nor does having a tan.
Leftists also have thoughts about fitness for adults and what it says about conservatism.
Earlier this year, fitness influencer MaryBeth Monaco-Vavrik posted a video that went viral connecting the “popularization of Pilates & running instead of strength training … and the rise of extreme American authoritarianism.” She also equated conservatism with “smaller bodies.”
Leno’s right: Colbert got canned because Americans are tired of left’s lectures | Opinion
Men, on the other hand, must avoid looking too manly and the trap of toxic masculinity and the “manosphere,” which liberals tell us have flourished under Trump. For instance, actor Sacha Baron Cohen’s appearance on the August cover of Men’s Fitness UK sparked criticism over his newly chiseled body.
One headline said his physique “is repellent to most women.”
(It must be because I’m a conservative woman, but I found Baron Cohen’s new look the opposite of repellent.)
Opinion alerts: Get columns from your favorite columnists + expert analysis on top issues, delivered straight to your device through the USA TODAY app. Don’t have the app? Download it for free from your app store.
In 2024, a columnist in The Guardian warned, “There is a dark side to wellness, which I always, for shorthand, thought of as political: getting fit makes you more rightwing.”
And now, enjoying sunshine and getting a tan could mark you as a MAGA fanatic. After all, Trump and his health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., sport a perennial bronze shade.
As The Atlantic recently observed: “Tanning is back. Only this time, it’s not just about looking good − it’s about embracing an entire ideology.”
I’d wager the vast majority of people who are fit and spend time outdoors do so because they know it’s beneficial for their health and simply enjoy it. It has nothing to do with Trump or how they vote.
Progressives trying to demonize fitness to “get back” at Trump are hurting themselves − and the next generations of Americans.
Windows 11’s Enhanced Security: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe Online
The latest iteration of Microsoft’s iconic operating system, Windows 11, has been designed with security in mind. In today’s digital landscape, where cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, it’s essential to have a robust defense system in place to protect your personal data and online identity. Windows 11’s enhanced security features are designed to provide a comprehensive layer of protection, giving you peace of mind while browsing the internet, storing sensitive information, and using your device.
Key Security Features in Windows 11
Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0: Windows 11 requires a TPM 2.0 chip, which provides an additional layer of security by storing sensitive data, such as encryption keys and passwords, in a secure environment. This ensures that even if your device is compromised, your data remains protected.
Secure Boot: This feature ensures that only authorized software can run on your device during the boot process, preventing malware and other types of cyber threats from infecting your system.
Windows Defender: The built-in antivirus software has been revamped to provide real-time protection against viruses, malware, and other types of cyber threats. Windows Defender also includes advanced features like cloud-based protection and behavior monitoring.
Windows Firewall: The Windows Firewall has been improved to provide more granular control over incoming and outgoing network traffic, allowing you to block or allow specific applications and services.
Encryption: Windows 11 includes built-in encryption features, such as BitLocker, which can encrypt your entire hard drive, ensuring that even if your device is stolen or compromised, your data remains unreadable.
Biometric Authentication: Windows 11 supports biometric authentication methods, such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, providing an additional layer of security and convenience.
Regular Updates: Windows 11 is designed to receive regular updates, which include security patches, bug fixes, and new features, ensuring that your device remains protected against the latest threats.
Best Practices to Enhance Security in Windows 11
While Windows 11’s built-in security features provide a solid foundation, there are additional steps you can take to enhance your online security:
Use Strong Passwords: Create unique, complex passwords for all accounts, and consider using a password manager to securely store them.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Whenever possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
Keep Software Up-to-Date: Regularly update your operating system, browser, and other software to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.
Be Cautious with Email Attachments and Links: Avoid opening suspicious email attachments or clicking on links from unknown sources, as they may contain malware or phishing scams.
Use a Reputable Antivirus Software: Consider using a reputable antivirus software, in addition to Windows Defender, to provide an extra layer of protection against cyber threats.
Staying Safe Online with Windows 11
In conclusion, Windows 11’s enhanced security features provide a robust defense system against cyber threats. By understanding the key security features and following best practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of compromise and stay safe online. Remember to always be vigilant and cautious when using your device, and take advantage of the built-in security features to protect your personal data and online identity.
By combining Windows 11’s built-in security features with your own best practices, you can enjoy a secure and safe online experience, free from the worries of cyber threats and data breaches. Stay informed, stay safe, and make the most of your Windows 11 experience.
