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1. A set of four vintage-style botanical prints for anyone who loves the feel of old-timey science classrooms — and who can also keep zero real plants alive. Promising review: "I bought these as a gift for my mother, and I am so glad I did. The print quality is outstanding: The lines are crisp, and the colors are saturated and solid. I'm wholly impressed with my purchase and would recommend these to anyone who loves the botanical aesthetic." — Rin Get the set of four from Amazon for $11.99 (also available in framed versions). Or you can pair them with gold 8x10 wall frames for a crisp look — you can get a pack of four from Amazon for $34.99 . 2. A gorgeous velvet mini jewelry case so they can pack their favorite key pieces in a safe and sound (and stylish!) way for a ~flying first-class ~ feeling wherever they go. Promising review: "Really amazing value. It looks pretty luxe, but I can't believe the price I bought it for — especially considering how expensive jewelry boxes can be. I use this one for travel, and it's perfect (I have a larger one for all my jewelry as well). I really like that you can move the little dividers in the bottom compartment around, too; that's been very helpful." — Dee Get it from Amazon for $23.99 (available in nine colors). 3. An ~ appearling~ light that'll make anyone clam up with emotion when they open it. They can even pop the pearl out of the shell and carry it with them! Promising review: "My favorite impulse purchase. I had been eyeing this for a while and finally ordered it; I get so many compliments! The “pearl” isn’t like others I’ve seen online that are plastic and cheap, and the shell can also be used to hold jewelry!" — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $20.88 (available with a pink or white shell). 4. A pair of pink coupe glasses with a gold rim so even their $5 bottle of bubbles can taste a little like Veuve Clicquot. And these are just gorge — Barbie Dreamhouse vibes, anyone? Reviewers say they're so pretty in person and very similar to the pink glasses with gold rims at Anthropologie. Promising review: "I absolutely love these glasses! They're just as beautiful in person as you might hope, and the weight of the glass is very nice also. They're real glass, not plastic, and the gold is so elegant. I absolutely love these, and I'm thinking about getting an extra set." — JLJ Promising review: "I bought these after finding a similar glass at Anthropologie. These are more affordable and just as lovely. Cheers ♥️" — Nicole L. Get them from Amazon for $19.99 (also available in a set of four). 5. Wood grain noise-isolating earbuds for anyone who is ALWAYS losing theirs. These look stylish enough that they'll always know where they are, but are actually cheap enough that they can replace them if need be. Promising review: "These are the best headphones I've ever purchased, hands down. I love these because of the cords, sound, and durability! I've had this pair for a year and a month so far, and they're still going strong, even with how rough I treat my earbuds. They're always in my pocket, in my earbud case, bag, jacket pockets, anywhere, and sometimes they swing around, hitting things, or are used while running at the gym. I fold them by wrapping them around three fingers, and given how many times I've done that, it's absolutely amazing that they still work and that the sound hasn't faded or broken. There's a mic that I use to call people, and it still works fine; just press the button once to end the call or pause/play music. The wood-and-metal finish looks awesome, and they stick out of my ears in a peculiar fashion that tends to leave a lot of people awed and get compliments. The bass sound is definitely amplified, and I love it and the noise [isolation] works fine — I can tune out anyone in a busy or loud environment (not 100% completely, but still pretty well). They came with a cute little pouch and six pairs of tips (which were handy because one of them fell out, and I needed a replacement). The cords are really nice and coated in plastic, and they don't tangle very easily (after so much wear, though, they're starting to be a little weaker and easier to tangle). This product is amazing and exceeded my expectations. I would definitely buy another pair or several for birthday gifts, and maybe the 3.0 to see how it's improved." — Amazon Customer Get them from Amazon for $14.99 (available in four colors). 6. *Or* a set of snazzy-looking and surprisingly affordable wireless Bluetooth earbuds so they can jam out to their favorite tunes, nod thoughtfully at their go-to podcast, or simply call into all their Zoom meetings with great sound clarity (and no background noise). These also come with a couple of sizes of buds so you can ensure a secure — and comfortable — fit. Aaaaand for the fancy pants they are, they come with a wireless charging case and provide up to 14(!!) hours of charge, as well as four-plus hours of continuous playback (with the earbuds able to play for four-plus hours with each full charge). Did I mention they're also sweatproof and waterproof?? With over 200,000 5-star reviews, they are mega-popular, too. Promising review: "Excellent sound quality and easy to pair with many devices. I have four other pairs of earbuds, and these are the best I have found. I use earbuds every night to listen to movies on TV so as not to disturb the wife while she sleeps. These are fantastic for that. I also use them during the day to listen to music while walking or biking. The best earbuds at an incredible value. Everyone who needs earbuds should have at least a pair of these in their possession. Awesome quality in the best earbuds I have found online!" — Michael1 Get them from Amazon $24.99+ (available in five colors). 7. A beautiful 100% soy wax candle inspired by a statue of a veiled woman (which you might recognize from Pemberley's sculpture garden in the 2005 Pride & Prejudice ). Although your giftee might not want to burn it, you can customize it with any of 21 different scents — or go unscented! I bought two of these two Christmases ago: one for my mom, and one for myself, and they're so pretty in person! And the scent I chose (citron mandarin) is lovely and strong when you get up close — without needing to light it! Promising review: "WOW, is all I have to say!!! The detail in this candle is amazing!! Such a gorgeous candle; I am beyond impressed. Everything, from the packaging to the scent, is perfect. The shop owner packaged these items so securely, and she included the cutest little note in the cutest little envelope. You can tell a lot of thought went into everything. I plan to display my 'veiled woman' candle on a Victorian-style tray. It's going to look great! So happy with my purchase that I'm about to purchase more items lol! Please check this shop out; you won't be disappointed!" —Jah Get it from Nemesis Boutique on Etsy for $15 (available in 26 colors and in 21 scents or unscented). Nemesis Boutique is a Texas-based small business selling handmade candles and skincare products for the body. Shipping info: Processing takes three to five days; check the listing for estimated shipping time to your area. 8. A bar of quadruple-milled, shea butter–infused French ~savon~ to soften rather than dry out their skin. It's time to send that boring soap down the drain. This is an upgrade to an everyday item that makes for a perfect stocking stuffer. Promising review: "I generally make my own soaps and body butters because I have extremely sensitive skin, but I have completely fallen in love with this line. The lather is luxuriously ample, yet gentle . The scent fills the bathroom but does not linger heavily on the body. It leaves my skin clean and soft — not dry, as most bar soaps do. I highly recommend the Rose and Mirabelle scents. These bars are quadruple-milled, so they do last a while." — NoIWontPutMyName Get bars from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in 43 scents). 9. An eyeglass holder that'll look like a piece of modern art sitting on their nightstand and is perfect for anyone who wants to show off their most dramatic shades...or anyone who routinely misplaces their glasses. Promising review: "Pretty cool! I got this as a quasi-gag gift for my boyfriend, who has trouble finding his glasses on his nightstand every morning. W ell, he’s a designer and turns out he loves it for its aesthetic as well as its functionality! " — Greta M. Get it from Amazon for $25.35 . 10. A pretty celestial journal (hello, gold foil stars) for the person in your life who wants to get into journaling — this is designed to inspire short and sweet daily reflections. There are only a few lines per day, so they can incorporate it into their daily routine with ease! It's gorgeous AND durable, so they'll actually want to use it for the full five years. The pages also also gilded. FANCY! According to one reviewer, the photos don't do it justice. Get it from Amazon for $15.76 or from Bookshop (to support local bookstores) for $15.76 . 11. A wavy mirror for an inexpensive boost of ~interior design~ that they can *also* take artistic selfies in. Everyone will beg to know which cool shop you got it in! Promising review: "I use it to get ready every morning!! So cute and also very easy to clean. Hasn’t cracked, no matter how rough I am with it. It’s very lightweight and a great gift for yourself or anyone. Definitely worth the price!!!" — M. Gonzalez Get it from Amazon for $8.90 . 12. A long, silky robe in a gorgeous large-scale floral print made for lounging, floating around their home in style, and listening to some Sinatra. Reviewers say it looks so expensive in person! Promising review: "I would buy this thing in all 10 different colors. Love it. I wear this thing literally every day. It is my new favorite piece of clothing. I would wear it out of the house if that wouldn’t be weird. Love it. So comfy. Lightweight and silky. Has an inner tie and the outer tie so it doesn’t come undone. Perfect!" — Jules Promising review: "I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and color, etc etc etc. Very nice purchase. Looks more expensive in person. This was a gift for a very picky person. She loved it . If she didn’t she would have said so." — Az Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in two sizes: one size, which has a 51-inch chest and one size plus, which has a 66-inch chest). Want something a little bit next-level? I got you! You can also get a reviewer-loved longer satin robe trimmed with ostrich feathers (which are also *removable* for easy washing). Get it from Amazon for $39.99 . 13. A pair of ice-rolling globes that'll be like an at-home facial treatment, but for way less $$$. They can keep them in the fridge or freezer *or* even warm them up in hot water! Promising review: "I had an ice roller that I thought was great until I tried these. WOW, no comparison. These are fantastic. They’re heavy, well-made, and stay cold a very long time. Not only do these feel wonderful on the face, they feel great behind the ears and down the back of the neck. They come in a velour pouch. I’m very happy with this purchase." — ask Get it from Amazon for $17.99 . 14. A set of embroidered green olive cocktail napkins sure to add a little extra personality to the martini lover in your life's tablescape. I'll drink to that! Embroidered cocktail napkins make SUCH a fun (and fancy!) gift — if your giftee isn't into olives, there are tons of similar amazing options on Etsy and elsewhere. These napkins embroidered with variations of "cheers" are also a great pick! Get the set of four from Stitch-able on Etsy for $30 . Stitch-able is a South Carolina–based small business making embroidered and monogrammed items and gifts. Shipping info: Arrives before Christmas; check the listing for updated shipping estimates to your area. Note that if you get a monogrammed item from their shop, the last day to order is Dec. 11. 15. A (very pretty!) box of TikTok-loved Maldon flaked salt that'll make a fancy stocking stuffer for any gourmand — and it'll look so cute on their kitchen counter! This is great for adding texture *and* flavor to everything from caprese salads to crispy chicken cutlets to freshly baked chocolate chip cookies — even a bowl of vanilla ice cream topped with olive oil. YUM. Promising review: "Have I become a salt snob? I asked for a marble salt box for Valentines Day, and I couldn't very well put common table salt inside such a beautiful thing, could I? No. I did a bit of research and found out that Maldon's Sea Salt flakes are the gold standard... even better than the pink salt I bought at the big box store that rhymes with Bosco! This salt's texture is a delight and the flavor is clean and bright (without being sharp). This is a little luxury in my kitchen, and every time I use it, I'm like, 'Dang. This is the good life!'" — Indiana A. Get a box it from Amazon for $7.99 . And if you really want to go for the gusto, you can also get a 3.4-pound Maldon salt BUCKET for $24.78 — in the same gorge print too!. 16. A gorgeous textured travel wallet to store their cash, boarding pass, passport, credit cards, and more — all while looking like a chic mini clutch. They'll be breezing through that TSA line like royalty. It's made of RFID-blocking material, too. Promising review: "I absolutely love this wallet. I needed a new travel wallet, and this holds everything I need all in one place, and it still closes nicely and stays flat! Boarding pass, passport, ID and credit cards, money, checked baggage tickets, receipts, etc.! Yet it doesn’t bulk up or look like an overstuffed mess . Just amazing. The description says it only holds US money, but I just used the boarding pass flap to hold all my Japanese yen, which are larger. I didn’t use the zippered pocket for coins, as I much prefer a separate coin purse for that sort of thing. I definitely recommend to anyone who travels a lot!" — Anthony Luu Get it from Amazon for $11.99 (available in 37 colors). 17. An etched rocks glass personalized with their favorite city in map form, whether they're homesick or falling in love with a new place, that'll make for a chic bar cart statement *and* warm their heart. They're dishwasher-safe too. Promising review: "I saw these on the site and knew right away that they would be perfect for my friend. Not only does my friend love the cities but is also a map enthusiast. Instead of getting a set of one city, I got four different cities that are special as a commemoration of special events . I gave them as gifts and they were really well received. They are a fun gift to give and receive." —Antcat Get it from Uncommon Goods for $20 (available in 41 cities). Well Told , the brand behind these glasses, is a small biz started by four college friends. 18. A set of super-sized (9.5 inches!) and super-soft satin scrunchies to keep their hair out of your face while dressing up any outfit — from loungewear to a fancy occasion. Satin is great for protecting hair, too! You can even split up the package for stocking stuffers! Promising review: "Honestly, I was very skeptical because I didn’t think I would like oversize scrunchies, but I have a long hair and I find any other scrunchies always pulling out my hair, so these are extremely comfortable. The downside is now I must get them in all colors 😃" — Dawn Sullivan Promising review: "These scrunchies are perfect for my thick natural hair and just like described it is very elastic and does not frizz up your hair when you tie it! I use this for my low buns and tying up long braids and there is seriously nothing to complain about! I will be buying more of these soon! Such a gift to come across these! Smooth and silky too, to protect the hair from frizz!" — LovelyBlue Get a three-pack from Amazon for $9.99 (available in two color sets, plus 6.25-inch scrunchies). 19. A fancy little puzzle vase , because it's time for the jigsaw genius in your life to take things 3D. This kit comes with 160 curved plastic pieces, and a detachable water cup and stand so they can display the completed work on its own or use it to hold actual flowers! The pieces come grouped in four separate sections, but for an added challenge, they can open all four at once and mix together, too. Several reviewers use it to hold completed Lego flower kits , so you could also gift them together! Promising review: "The quality exceeded my expectations. There is an insert inside so you can use with actual flowers which I was impressed by. AND a display stand that I didn't expect. I had so much fun building, and love seeing it every day. Perfectly sized little vase." — Julia A Gilbert Get it from Amazon for $26.39 . 20. A disco ball hair clip so your life-of-the-party bestie can keep bringing the vibes wherever they go — Mamma Mia, here they go again! Get it from Jenny Lemons on Etsy or straight from the Jenny Lemons site for $20. Jenny Lemons is a San Francisco-based small business making lots of hair accessories — all out of cellulose acetate, a plant-based plastic alternative — in fun, often food-inspired shapes (like pickles , croissants , hot dogs , and more!), plus stickers, key chains, earrings, and more. Shipping info for Etsy: Arrives before Christmas; check the listing for updated shipping estimates to your area. Shipping info for Jenny Lemons: Processing usually takes two days, and ground shipping takes five business days. Upgraded shipping options (including 2 business day and overnight options) are also available. 21. A candle carousel tray that spins — almost like magic — when over a lit candle to give their home some extra cozy ambiance. It's actually powered by the hot air that rises, but we'll pretend it's witchcraft! Check it out on TikTok . Promising review: "Truly a great addition to get me in the reading mood! Honestly a good item at an incredibly reasonable price! Love lighting a candle and watching this spin!" — Victoria Get it from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in five designs). 22. A plush faux-fur and fleece blanket designed to look like sumptuous faux fur, because their home is their castle and winter is coming. And hey, according to one reviewer , "[The] receiver of this gift thought it must have been expensive." 👀 Sounds like a winner to me. The other side is super-cozy fleece, and did I mention it's machine washable?? Promising review: "I love extra-soft blankets, and out of all of them, this is the softest blanket ever! I feel like I’m lying in a large cloud of feathers and cotton balls! It’s so soft, I can’t stop snuggling it! Totally recommend this blanket. If you wanna feel like your world is a life of snuggling and cuddling, this is it! " — Alissa Lance Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in four sizes and in six colors). 23. Touchscreen leather gloves so beautiful, whoever opens them will immediately break into a (gloved) round of applause. Aaaand they're lined with a cashmere blend. Promising review: "Love, love, love these gloves! They work amazingly, and I have gotten so many compliments on them. They are warm and work awesome with my phone. Both gloves have three fingers that work with touchscreen: thumb, index, and middle." — rcollins Get them from Amazon for $23.99 (available in women's glove sizes 6.8–8.5 and in 13 colors). 24. Or, for the faux-fur fan on your list, a pair of luxe ribbed mittens with the plushness on the outside AND on the inside so they can stay toasty (and stylish) all winter. Get it from J.Crew Factory for $24.50 (available in three colors). Looking for something plainer? These The Drop faux fur mittens are also tres chic and super plush — you can get them from Amazon for $18.61+ (available in four colors). 25. A gold-plated corkscrew for ~birds of a feather~ who really love wine. This is the perfect blend of fancy-shmancy meets quirky! Promising review: "I am a sucker for anything gold, so this was right up my alley. The corkscrew itself is stunning (and very sturdy), and the packaging was equally amazing! The box is black and made of a thick cardboard, with the corkscrew nestled in black foam, and slides into the outer-shell packaging. You would think this corkscrew was $40 from Nordstrom, not $10 from Amazon. I will be purchasing it again for future hostess gifts!" — David L. Get it from Amazon for $15.98+ (also available in copper and black). And if ~rainbow iridescence~ is more your thing, score one from Amazon for $12.85 ! 26. A disco ball hanging planter for really glamming up their space. And bonus: Anytime the light hits it, they've got an instant party AND will remember to actually water their plant. It comes in super-giftable vintage-inspired packaging, too! Promising review: "This planter is beautiful! I get so many compliments when guests come over. Also, when the sun is shining, it's like bling bouncing on the ceiling/walls! Buy it!" — Tracy C. Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (for the 4-inch size; also available in 6-inch , 8-inch , and 12-inch sizes). DadoDado Designs is a Houston-based small business. 27. An eight-piece measuring set to create a gorge and 'Gram-worthy flat lay during their next baking adventure. The plastic ones just seem...so boring now. Promising review: "Happy with this measuring set. The cups come on a detachable ring, and the spoons come on their own ring, which makes it easy to take them off and on for using and then storing. The color is gorgeous and perfectly matches the gold cooking utensils I bought from the same vendor . As for the quality, they appear well made since they are heavier than other sets I’ve used. Thumbs up from me!" — Megan Harding Get the set of eight from Amazon for $21.99 (also available in copper). 28. Tatcha's Kissu Lip mask for a really elevated pout-moisturizing experience. It's got Japanese peach extract to help repair damaged winter lips and calm irritation, squalane to soften, and camellia oil to seal in moisture without feeling heavy. And I'm telling you, your giftee is going to love the luxe feeling of putting it on with the pretty gold spatula (which stores neatly in the lid) at the end of the day! While this might be on the pricey side for a lip mask, in terms of schmancy beauty gifts, it's a good bang for your buck! Promising review: "Quite a price tag for a lip mask, but as someone with very dry, flaky lips and lots of fine lip lines, this product out-performs every other lip balm/mask I’ve tried in the past. Long-lasting moisture and provides a plump, glossy sheen, and tastes good (but don’t eat it, it’s expensive)" —Quitty Get it from Sephora for $29 (available in original (pictured above) and orange blossom). 29. A made-in-Italy diamond-cut decanter for drinking-at-an-ad-agency-in-the-'60s vibes but at a drinking-the-bottle-of-scotch-I-stole-from-my-parents price. This glassware is made in Italy! Promising review: “I purchased this for my brother as a Christmas gift last year. The package arrived in perfect condition, with its contents safely intact. After pouring our first glass of whiskey from this decanter, we immediately felt more sophisticated and used words like 'indubitably,' 'transcendent,' and 'ergo.' Indeed, drinking from this decanter will make even Canadian LTD taste piquant." — Justin Pickens Get it from Amazon for $18.99 , or get a set with the six matching rocks glasses for $33 — a great deal! The decanter is also available in three other styles in the same listing. 30. And a cut crystal–style cocktail shaker that will make them feel like you just stepped out of a Bond movie when they whip up their favorite cocktail at home. And if you like your martinis stirred rather than shaken (as they're supposed to be!), this brand also makes a cut crystal–style mixing glass with strainer. Get it from Amazon for $21.97 . Promising review: "I am so thrilled with this shaker. It's beautiful and can sit out on my bar cart, is super functional, and doesn't leak. It's a conversation starter and everyone who has seen it loves the way it looks and asks where I got it. I will say, the bottom is quite heavy and this makes shaking a bit awkward but once you get used to it it's no big deal." — Amanda B Get it from Amazon for $22.95 . 31. Truly ~stellar~ 14-karat gold-plated huggie earrings with *universal* appeal. Promising review: "These are GORGEOUS!! I wear them every single day, and they haven’t turned my skin colors or faded in color. They’re so pretty and high quality!" — Katy Sowers Get them from Amazon for $12.95 (available in yellow, white, and rose gold and in five other dangle shapes). 32. Oversized square sunnies with a Bottega–inspired shape for anyone you know who *has* to be on trend — without you *having* to pay a designer price. These scream "No photos, please!" — but also look really great in photos, tbh. But that's not all: they also have polarized lenses and UV protection to keep their peepers safer. (Not even luxury brands always have that!) Promising review: "Love these so so much. I wanted the chic Bottega Veneta designer pair, but these look exactly like those for less than $20. Deal of the century. They are comfortable and extremely well made and I seriously can’t get over the price. I’m thinking about buying another color because I love them so much." — Kam Promising review: "I saw these sunglasses on TikTok a couple of months ago and finally ordered them. I’m so glad I did. I LOVE them!! They’re such good quality! And I love the way they look on. I’d definitely buy them again!!" — Sammie Batey Get it from Amazon for $15.99+ (available in 13 lens colors). 33. Press for Champagne , a fizzy little guide to what the famous sparkling wine is, where it comes from, and tips for enjoying it so your loved one can ~expand their palate~. Get it from Amazon for $14.99 or from Bookshop (to support local bookstores) for $13.94 . 34. A marble board wire cheese cutter to turn their wine-and-cheese nights with their friends (or a one-person cheese board dinner, no judgment from me!) into a Martha Stewart–worthy event. They'll end up with gorgeous and neat slices, and doesn't it just look so fun to use?! Check out a TikTok of the cheese slicer in action. Promising review: "My mother-in-law had purchased one last year, and I tried hers at Christmas and fell in love with how easy it was to use. We have a lot of get-togethers with friends, and cheese is a staple appetizer in our house. So, I purchased my own and have been using it weekly since. It cuts easily, and it's mostly easy to clean. Sometimes cheese gets stuck in the crack, but some scrubbing with a small brush usually does the trick." — Jessica Get it from Amazon for $17.87 (available in two colors). 35. And a set of gold and agate cheese utensils , because cheese is basically food gold, and their selection deserves to be spread with the best. Promising review: "Beautiful — MUST buy. Looks amazing in person. They are sturdy and will elevate your spread." — EvD Get the set of six from Amazon for $15.87 . 36. And! A stylish bamboo cheese board (with a cutting board on the other side!) to make any Trader Joe's cheese platter look as if it was put together by Martha Stewart. It's made from environmentally friendly bamboo, and it has three grooved trays for crackers or other snacks. Promising review: "This board is the perfect size for all of your charcuterie occasions. The board, although bamboo, looks far more expensive in person. I would highly recommend this product! I received multiple compliments for my first charcuterie creation." — Carla Get it from Amazon for $17.99 . 37. A gold scratch-off map for any travel enthusiast who doesn't just want a boring old *regular* wall map. They can scratch off the coating to reveal a brightly colored path underneath to mark off where they've been. This one also has the maps of the world on the bottom (so they can scratch those off, too, to match) and has borders of the US states so they can scratch off those individually, too! Promising review: "My new husband I and have traveled quite a bit individually (my husband in particular), and I decided to get this as our one year anniversary gift in order to document our travels together. I loved the idea of having the country flags displayed as well as the map itself, which is why I chose this specific model. The map itself its stunningly lovely with the gold and black alone, but the pops of color as you remove the filigree gives a certain sense of satisfaction that cannot be ignored. The filigree comes off easily with a coin, credit card, or fingernail (I use a credit cart to cut away specific lines). The colors are vibrant and the black background is exceptionally scratch resilient, keeping the map looking like new, even if you scratch outside the lines. I would post pictures, but the map is too stunning for me to tack to the wall, so it is living in its box until I can frame it and hang it on the bedroom wall. (The box itself is even cheekily adorable)." — Roz Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (also available in black and a version with watercolors underneath). 38. An AirPods (or AirPods Pro) case shaped like a famous bag that rhymes with gherkin — stylish AND protective? Truly the best of both worlds. I bought this case for myself last year and I love it! It stays on so nicely, and makes it easier to find my AirPods in my bag. Promising review: "I loved the look of the case and I was surprised how durable it was. By far my favorite AirPod case" — Abreil Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (available in black and orange, and in two sizes: one to fit AirPods 1/2 and one to fit AirPods Pro). 39. A two-pack of handblown watering globes that look like they came from a cool boutique. And they're super useful too: They can fill 'em with H2O and stick right in the soil of their planter — it'll slowly release water as the plant needs it so they can go on vacay with peace of mind (or just worry about watering less while at home). Promising review: "You can tell these are handmade because they are all slightly different in size. I think they are beautiful and complement my plants and/or their pots well. It also made me realize how some plants really need a lot more water than others just by noticing the water levels in each." — EC Promising review: "These are amazing! I bought them for a two-week trip and have left them in permanently because of how happy my plants looked. They do a better job of watering my plants than I do! These are a great size for larger pots or thirsty plants. I read some reviews saying they are hard to fill but I haven’t found that to be the case. Just tip it at an angle like a wine glass and use low water pressure." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $12.99 for two (also available in a six-pack). 40. A cult-favorite luxury-scented candle reviewers looooove for its strong throw and high-end scent profile. They're going to thank you every time they light it, because their home will smell like a high-end hotel lobby thanks to this blend of jasmine, oud, and sandalwood notes. And if that scent combo doesn't sound like ~them~, there are oodles of other ones to choose from! Promising review: "I use candles, warmers, and incense religiously and thought I had tried them all by now? I received several different fragrances of LuLu Candles as a gift. The scent fills a room immediately and smells robust, not artificial or perfume-y. Longevity rivals the biggest jars in half the size, and even when the wick is gone, you can throw the jar on a warming plate and squeeze out an extra two days of aromatherapy as you rush order a resupply. I've reordered 3 times now. Absolutely love these candles." — garrid baldwin Promising review : "I was staying over at a friend's house and sitting next to her coffee table. She had this candle on the table, and even though it wasn't lit I could smell it, and it was so delicious that I instantly went online to find it and bought it for myself! If this came in a perfume, I would buy enough to last the rest of my life. I don't know how to even explain the scent, but if you are an amber/patchouli/vanilla fan, this is absolutely for you. The jasmine adds an unbelievable freshness without a flowery scent . I even bought the shampoo and conditioner, which I will probably use as more of a body wash and shaving cream but that is how desperate I am to get this scent on me! " — Melissa I. Get it from Amazon for $19.95+ (available in four sizes, in gift box options, in packs of two, and in a variety of scents). Lulu Candles is a US-based small business that specializes in scented candles and perfumes. 41. And a gold candle snuffer that'll look so chic sitting on a tray next to your favorite scented candle (you can also add a gold wick trimmer to complete the set!) and will make the experience of blowing out said candle extra luxe. Plus, you won't risk getting wax on your furniture by blowing it out too aggressively. Promising review : "This snuffer does the job. I bought it to snuff out my tea candles so that I'm not blowing wax everywhere. It works perfectly. I like the weight, and it looks very pretty sitting on the mantle . The price is perfect also." — Mary Lesane Get it from Amazon for $9.99 . 42. A pack of Wander Beauty gold foil under eye masks that'll look *and* feel incredibly luxe as they work to brighten and hydrate the under eyes. And reviewers note that (unlike other brands), these don't slip and slide, so when your giftee wears them, they can *actually* relax and enjoy. Promising review: "I ordered the five pack and am SO happy I did. These eye patches are so easy to use and stay in place and the gold color is so fun. I was able to move around my apartment (do dishes, do laundry etc) while I had them on. They perked my eyes right up and felt incredibly soothing. I think keeping them in the fridge and then applying them would add to their refreshing nature. They are easy to remove from their packaging and come with plenty of extra serum that I rubbed into my neck and chest. " — Keely Get a box of six pairs of masks from Amazon for $26 (available in gold and rose gold). 43. A gift assortment of hot chocolate on a stick so their favorite winter beverage can be deliciously rich...even if you are not. All they need to do is heat up some milk and dunk the chocolate until it melts — no messy powders or endless stirring. Just solid! chocolate! goodness! Can you image this melted into coffee, too? Yummmmm. Promising review: "Delish! Wish I had tried them earlier, before I had already bought gifts. These are so yummy and rich, you can almost use one for two cups of cocoa. I will likely get these again next year for sweet treats and holiday gifts." — Jane Mitchell Get a six-pack from Amazon for $24.99 (available in dark, milk, and white chocolate or chocolate, mocha, and peppermint; also available in packs of 12). 44. An 18-karat gold-plated delicate crescent moon pendant with chunky gray stones for a stunning everyday piece that says, "I love you to the moon and back." Promising review: "The package came earlier than expected and without damage. The sparkle to the stones is exactly as I hoped it would be; very sparkly!! Much to my surprise, when I turned the necklace over to see the back of it, I saw the stones are actually set into the metal, which means no loose stones to fall out!!! I showed my daughter the necklace, and she promptly got on her phone to show me she had the earrings ( $14.99 ) in her cart!! I know what to get her for her birthday, and I know which seller to choose! Very happy with the product and will be purchasing the earrings soon!!!" — Heather Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in three finishes, two moon sizes, and two lengths). 45. A brushed metallic Rubik's Cube–style puzzle that'll be a two-in-one gift: challenging game (the cube segments aren't all the same size!) and interestingly attractive desk tchotchke. Promising review: "This thing is fantastic! I've recently gotten into shape-shifting puzzles, and this a great place to start from the regular 3-by-3. This is easily my smoothest-turning puzzle. I have done probably 20 solves so far and have had no hang-ups or issues whatsoever. Stickers seem to be good, one is ever so slightly off center, but it doesn't look as if any will come off anytime soon. Also, it just looks awesome in both its solved state and scrambled." — john m. Get it from Amazon for $9.99 . 46. A just-the-right-size planner with a stately faux-leather cover, tabbed sections, gold foiling, and weekly and monthly sections so they at least feel that their life is in order. Mood. It also comes with stickers, and WHO doesn't love stickers? Promising review: "I just received my new planner, and I love it. It's larger (8.5 by 11 inches), but thinner. The hardcover is flexible but still durable, and beautifully made. The appearance of the planner is very professional. The weekly guide provides plenty of space to write down my daily schedule. The elastic bookmark helps to find my place quickly, and there are two more ribbon bookmarks provided. I had to place the monthly calendar tabs myself. I can find the monthly calendar easily now. I would have liked if it was already in place, but I understand if there are people who don't use such features. Overall, I am pleased with my purchase." — Arlene W. Promising review: "My son-in-law LOVES this planner. He wants no other one, just this one. So every year, I go to my previous orders and select the planner I bought him for Christmas in the previous year, and it has the new year’s planner available. Voilà! Christmas present purchased!" — Cheryl Gillespie Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in four colors). 47. A generously sized, loop-through faux-fur stole to make the most bundled-up winter outfit look Old Hollywood glam. Promising review: "Honestly, I didn't know what to expect from such an inexpensive faux-fur stole, but WOW, I was pleasantly surprised! The fur is silky smooth and looks close to real. It is a great size...not too large, not too small! It has an unnoticeable loop hole, so the stole can stay put instead of sliding everywhere and you having to 'hold on' to it with clenched arms. I bought this for my Great Gatsby dress, and it fits in perfectly with the dress. If you are considering...I say put it in your cart and check out!! You won't be disappointed!" — rjv4EVER Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in two sizes and in 19 colors). 48. A 18K gold-plated dog collar , because your pup's stocking deserves to be overflowing with fanciness too! Many reviewers do speak to the sturdiness, but overall they don't recommend using with a leash. Promising review: "I have three dogs, and I purchased one for all three: a pit bull terrier, a cocker spaniel, and a dachshund. They look great on them. They’ve had the chains for over six months, and they are still shiny with no tarnish. I highly recommend." — Kim Z Promising review: "Got this chain for my Pitbull; I figured he needed a little bling in his life, especially considering he absolutely loves clothes and blankets.. well let me tell you this was definitely something he was just as excited about .. yea he's very much like a human lol, the quality of this collar is fantastic, highly recommend it to anyone looking for something different for their doggo!" — That Khaki Zj Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in 10 sizes). 49. A hardcover clothbound edition of Persuasion (which is, IMO, Jane Austen's most underrated novel), because Wentworth's letter deserves to be read in a fancy, pretty edition like this. We don't talk about the Netflix adaptation. Promising review: "I love these books! Of course, Jane Austen is amazing, and any edition of her books would be cherished, but the Penguin Classics editions are so pretty, and they have interesting introductions and helpful notes that give a history for certain things mentioned in the stories . They broaden your understanding of the time period in which Austen was writing and deepen your appreciation of the story. I am so pleased with them." — Courtney N. Get it from Amazon for $17.29 (also available in Emma , Sense and Sensibility , and Pride and Prejudice ). The full set of all six novels, plus Love and Friendship , is also available for $93.99 . 50. A couple of acrylic and gold flake clips to dress up any hairdo with minimal effort. And the more they stack these beauties, the better. Get them from Fibs and Fables for $16 each (available in three colors). Fibs and Fables is a Black woman–owned shop based in Washington, DC, inspired by mythology and fables and with the goal to create inclusive conversation about hair — and let me tell you, alllll of their hair accessories are just gorgeous. Shipping info: Allow three days for processing time, and two to three days for shipping . 51. A marble and rose gold hair tools set , because practical things can be gorgeous, too. And even though they look luxe, they're lightweight so your giftee can blow-dry without tiring out their arms. It includes a paddle brush, round brush, rattail comb for teasing and sectioning, and two sectioning clips. Promising review: "These brushes are so nice. Not only are they pretty but they also make hair nice and smooth. I used the paddle brush and round brush to dry my hair smooth and straight, it dried so fast. I used the round brush alone to do the loose curl blowout it’s the perfect size for medium to long hair such as mine. Being a licensed hairstylist I can say not only do they make the hair gorgeous but they are better than most other 'professional' brushes I’ve used. They are also lightweight, which helps with my carpal tunnel syndrome." — Zujeyro Get the set from Amazon for $16.99 . 52. A multipack of minimal yet statement-making earrings to complete any all-black everything #OOTD. It's like outfitting their entire ear wardrobe in just one purchase! Promising review: "This set is so lovely! I got the Desert set, and there are so many beautiful pairs that I wear on the daily. These are worth the buy, and I would purchase another set for sure." —sophiagallegos Get the set of 13 pairs from Free People for $20 (available in 16 color sets). 53. An oversized plush satin eye mask designed to be extra gentle on their skin and hair so whether they're sleeping in at home or trying to snooze on a red-eye, they'll feel first class all the way. It's even satin in the back — no annoying elastic strap. Promising review: "As a high-maintenance sleeper, I hope I never have to be without this mask — actually, I WAS without this mask for a couple days which is why I immediately purchased another one. Left on a plane. Heartbreaking. This mask is so soft and plush. It completely blocks out light, and depending on how low you position it behind your head, it muffles sound nicely as well. I’ve purchased many silk masks, even some pricey ones, and this one by far is my absolute favorite." — alexandriabeth Get it from Amazon for $17.99 . Kitsch is a woman-founded company that makes adorable hair accessories, useful tools, and more to help make every day a good hair day. 54. Tie-front satin PJs to make lounging around the house extra fancy. Seriously, these look like they could be from a high-end brand, and when your giftee ask you to drop the link so they can get another color, their jaw will drop when they hear "from Amazon." I bought a set of these and they're soooo cute. They're also on the boxy side, so there's some flexibility with sizing IMO! Promising review: "It’s always a gamble getting pajamas online, especially when they’re supposed to be silky; sometimes you get that unyielding plastic-y feeling material. That’s not the case with these! They’re soft and flowy, and the ties in the front, while not Fort Knox, are still more secure than I thought they’d be. I’m definitely going to order in more colors." — Amazon Customer Get them from Amazon for $25.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 27 colors and patterns). 55. An "Is that designer??" veil-topped beanie , because staying cozy in the snow doesn't mean you have to give up on style...or drama. I talked my mom into buying this beanie (she was jealous of one I got years ago), and she gets SO many compliments on it — it looks GREAT IRL. Promising review: "The netting is super sturdy, very well connected. I LOVE this hat!! It’s more perfect than I imagined." —Kelsie O'Keefe Get it from Pretty Little Attire on Etsy for $29.11 . Pretty Little Attire is a UK-based small business making all the veil-topped headwear you dream of. Shipping info: Processing takes three days; check the listing for estimated shipping time to your area. 56. A pair of anti-slip fuzzy open-toe slippers with a cushy memory foam insole (perfect for year-round use) that'll make walking around their home, doing chores, or fetching a snack feel just a little more luxe. These are suuuuper cushy but won't overheat their tootsies! Promising review: "These slippers are amazing! Discovered them on TikTok and went back and forth about ordering them but wow, they are so comfortable. I have barely taken them off since receiving them. They are so fluffy and stay on my feet surprisingly well when walking around the house. Can’t wait until more colors are in stock to get another pair." — MSumm Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in women's sizes 5/6–9/10 and 13 colors). 57. A pair of chunky droplet earrings almost guaranteed to make your loved one say, "Oh, you shouldn't have!" — And you didn't (splurge, at least). Now they can try out that oh-so-trendy Bottega look...but not at a fine jewelry price. Reviewers note they're lightweight but not flimsy, so they're comfortable for all-day wear — plus they go with everything! Promising review: "Bottega, who? These are adorable and super close to the original ones! Perfect for work, events, or casual days. They don’t get rusty or anything right away (I wore them while walking around in 90-degree weather). Love them, and I’m gonna get them in gold too! " — Amazon Customer Promising review: "Yep..this is it, FINALLY! For those of you who have been searching for the best, affordable, similar-looking Bottega [swap], THIS IS IT!! I searched many places and bought from other places but this is the best one out there... I thought the price of these earrings was sketchy, but NO...it's legit" — Amazon Customer Get them from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in three sizes and 11 colors). 58. A Sol de Janeiro fragrance mist in scent Cheirosa '68 because if your giftee has the oh-so popular Baccarat Rouge 540 on their wishlist, this could help them scratch that itch! Reviewers say this has a similar, very luxurious smell — but in a lighter, body spray version with notes of jasmine, hibiscus, and sun musk. As someone who owns both perfumes, I too was surprised at the close similarity! Promising review: "I was a little worried ordering this online without ever having smelled it before, but I’m obsessed! I got this as a gift for a family friend, and she and I both LOVE it! It’s sweet smelling, but in a subtle way. It stays on you for a while, and it just smells so yummy." — Kylie Cooper Promising review: "This mist smells just like baccarat rouge 540. If you’re looking for something on the cheaper side of perfumes, this is it. Or if you don’t want to commit to buying baccarat because of its price.. we’ll this right here is [an alternative]. Highly highly recommend!" — Karina Gonzalez Get a three-ounce bottle from Amazon for $25 . 59. A set of four faceted shot glasses that'll make a gorgeous statement sitting out on any bar cart. That plastic bottle of tequila they have just got a lot snazzier. Promising review: "Unique and fun! These little shot glasses are the perfect size not only for shots but for sipping on stronger liqueurs. They are striking in appearance and are beautifully made. Each glass is perfectly formed and feels sturdy and well made. I'm glad I stumbled upon these while surfing Amazon in the wee hours!" — Amazon Customer Get a set of four from Amazon for $24.99 (also available in iridescent). You can also get a pair of full-size faceted glasses from the same brand for $19.99 . Dragon Glassware, the maker of these, is a Northern California–based boutique glassware brand and small biz. 60. A set of jumbo fizzy aromatherapy bath bombs to moisturize any bath-lover's skin and make their next soak a little more spa-like. Ahhhh, relaxation in a steamy tub o' good smells. What a way to spend an evening! They're each about the size of a tennis ball — and they won't stain your tub, so you won't have to scrub afterwards. Promising review: "I have been using bath bombs for years. I've used cheap brands, drugstore brands, luxury brands (Lush, YL) and more. This box gives all bath bombs I've tried a run for the money! The packaging was super cute and totally giftable. I was really impressed at the quality of the bath bomb itself too (I used Heal tonight) and I love that this uses natural essential oils. During this COVID-19 outbreak, I have had a lot of stress and anxiety and have enjoyed a bath nearly every night for the past week. This bomb gave me the most serene experience and they are HUGE! At least double the size of ones I've used before. Comparable to the size of Lush bombs. I will definitely purchase this box again when I run out and honestly it's a great price at a little more than $2 a piece. You really can't beat it!" — Heather H Get a set of 12 from Amazon for $26.09 . Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime Members , and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here ). 61. A freshwater baroque pearl bracelet that'll make anyone feel that the world is their oyster every time they wear it. Promising review: "I gave this to my mom the morning of my wedding & it was beautiful! She had a fresh water pearl necklace from my grandma who passed away & this matched perfectly! Love all the jewelry I order through this shop!!" —Lauren O'Donoghue Get it from Caitlyn Minimalist on Etsy for $18.60 (originally $31). Caitlyn Minimalist is an Asian woman–owned Etsy shop based in LA and specializing in truly special custom jewelry pieces. Shipping info: Arrives before Christmas; check the listing for updated shipping estimates to your area. 62. Or a CZ tennis bracelet that looks similar to the pricey Swarovski (or even...the real deal). Reviewers agree it sparkles beautifully, has a super secure clasp, aaaand holds up well to repeated wear! And btw, buys like this are also a great way to "test drive" a piece of jewelry before splurging to make sure they like it for the long haul! Promising review: "Soooo pretty. It’s 100% a Swarovski [alternative] for so cheap. Looks exactly like the photo, and I wear it every day." — Trysten Walters Promising review: "I just lost my very real gold tennis bracelet. I’ve heard good things about this company and decided to order one that looked like the one I lost. It just came in, and it looks as nice as my real one. I don’t know how it will do as time goes, but for $19, it’s a great buy" — Alina Get it from Amazon for $17.95+ (available in three lengths,14K gold-plated or 18K gold vermeil, and in yellow, rose, or white gold). 63. Two decks (one gold, one silver) of playing cards (you can keep one for yourself or stock up for stocking stuffers!) for at-home poker nights that are more luxurious than the swankiest 5-star hotel and casino in Vegas. Promising review: "These are way more gorgeous than I imagined, and I had seen someone's photos of them on Instagram...WOW! These shuffled really well right out of the box. No 'breaking in' necessary! These FEEL high quality and really nice! After several uses, I haven't noticed any sparkles or shiny stuff going anywhere. I feel that I really got a good value for the money I spent. If you know someone who uses cards often or likes shiny/glittery things, these would make a great gift!" — MOlivia Vinyl Get the two decks from Amazon for $9.99 (also available in three other styles). 64. A satin pillowcase for a practical AND luxe gift. These can help maintain hair health even as they sleep, reducing frizz and breakage when compared with regular cotton or other fiber pillowcases — that means longer-lasting blowouts and less damage in the long run. This is my go-to satin pillowcase. I have two Slip pillowcases, and several of these, and actually the Bedsure ones wash up much nicer and retain an incredibly silky smooth feel after dozens of trips through the laundry. They're the only ones I'll buy going forward, and I recommended them to my mom and now she's in love with them too! Promsing review: "This is my second purchase of this item just to be able to rotate them frequently. I’ve also gifted these with rave reviews. The envelope closure works perfectly to keep my pillow from slipping out (a common complaint from others). It has done wonders for my wavy/curly hair. I don’t even bother with a silk/satin head scarf or bonnet anymore. Keeps frizz at bay and my morning refresh is a breeze. Great product and an even better price." — Kylie Cooper Get a set of two from Amazon for $6.98+ (available in standard, queen, kind, and body pillow sizes and 37 colors). 65. A gold-trimmed box of Earl Grey that'll make them feel as if they're having high tea at Buckingham Palace. Pro tip: This makes for an adorable gift wrap if you stick a couple of other tiny gifts inside the tin along with the tea! Promising review: "Great tea! I have bought many other flavors of tea from this company. My all-time favorite is Earl Grey, so I don't know why I hadn't bought this sooner. Buying from Amazon actually saved me money, and I got it a lot sooner than buying direct from company. The tin is great for other uses when you have drunk all the tea. Also, I so love the tea in sachets rather than in the paper bags...such a more full-bodied flavor." — Cely Smith Get a box of 20 sachets from Amazon for $7.74 (available in eight other flavors, and you can check out all the available blends here ). 66. A metallic Bluetooth speaker with 15-hour playback; loud, crystal-clear high-def sound; and a compact size that packs a punch so they can display it on a bookshelf or their mantel or simply pack it in their bag for jams on the go. It also has a waterproof case! Promising review: "I love this Bluetooth speaker; it has great-quality sound and it's small and attractive. It plays for hours at a time. I love the rose-gold color. Although it's small, the sound is awesome! As you can see, I'm very pleased with this product!! I highly recommend it. The price is unbelievable for such a great product! It's also very easy to set up." — Ms P Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in eight colors). 67. A vintage-inspired scarf they can tie around their neck, hair, or purse handle — or even wear as a top, if they've saved as many TikToks as I have — for an effortlessly chic final touch. BTW, reviewers with natural hair love this for sleeping in to protect their hair! Promising review: "I actually get compliments on this all the time. I just bought it as a cheap little way to accent my black purse, and people are shocked when I say it's just an inexpensive scarf off of Amazon . The print looks great and it's really soft. You can definitely tell it's not an expensive scarf if you spend some time touching/looking at it. But it's a great accessory that apparently fools passersby!" — Katie Payne Get it from Amazon for $6.99 (available in 43 colors and patterns). 68. A three-pack of gridded notebooks , each featuring a different cover designed by artist James Jean, for anyone trying to start a bullet journal in 2024. Promising review: "As always, any product/art from James Jean is incredible. These are wonderful notebooks and unique. Plus, at this price, I feel that we can just use these daily for work and note-taking and not feel they are 'too fancy' to use." — Katie F. Get a set of three notebooks from Amazon for $12.95 (also available in six other artists' designs). 69. A Vogue coloring book , which is filled with illustrations of photos from British Vogue in the 1950s, with all the information from the original magazine, including the month and year and what clothes are featured. Promising review: "Beautiful illustrations and good quality of paper makes this book one of the best fashion coloring books ever! This book is made for the watercolors. The description of each dress helps as the guides to the styles and colors. Love this book and want to color every page! The best fashion coloring book so far!" — Artsinme Get it from Amazon for $8.98 . 70. A faux sheepskin they can use as a little area rug by the bed or simply draped over a chair or ottoman for some "interior design mag" style for under $25. Promising review: "I did not have my hopes up high for this rug, as it was fairly inexpensive, BUT I was so happy when I got it!!! It is so extremely soft; exactly what I was looking for — 10/10!!" — Leilani Alvarez Get a 2-by-3-foot size from Amazon for $21.99 (available in 11 shapes/sizes and in 11 colors). 71. A set of three remote-operated flameless candles with moving "flames" that flicker realistically for a relaxing atmosphere or the *look* of a fireplace — without worrying about whether or not they left a candle burning. They have a timer built in so they'll turn on at the same time every day too, so they'll be ready for cozy vibes when the sun sets....so early. Who needs Luminara candles at triple the price? These require three AAA batteries per candle that will last you about 150 hours. Promising review: "With the price of batteries, these beautiful candles are a must. I've always used Luminara , which unfortunately, devour batteries and die after several years. These candles also have a more soothing, ambient affect. The colored exteriors are far prettier than Luminara. Great gifts!" — pandorah Get the set of three from Amazon for $25.99 (available in four colors). Once everyone's done opening your amazing presents: Note: Some reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

The suspect in the high-profile killing of a health insurance CEO that has gripped the United States graduated from an Ivy League university, reportedly hails from a wealthy family, and wrote social media posts brimming with cerebral musings. Luigi Mangione, 26, was thrust into the spotlight Monday after police revealed he is their person of interest in the brutal murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, a father of two, last week in broad daylight in Manhattan in a case that laid bare deep frustration and anger with America's privatized medical system. News of his capture in Pennsylvania -- following a tip from a McDonald's worker --triggered an explosion of online activity, with Mangione quickly amassing new followers on social media as citizen sleuths and US media tried to understand who he is. While some lauded him as a hero and lamented his arrest, others analyzed his intellectual takes in search of ideological clues. A photo on one of his social media accounts includes an X-ray of an apparently injured spine. No explicit political affiliation has emerged. Meanwhile, memes and jokes proliferated, many riffing on his first name and comparing him to the "Mario Bros." character Luigi, sometimes depicted in AI-altered images wielding a gun or holding a Big Mac. "Godspeed. Please know that we all hear you," wrote one user on Facebook. "I want to donate to your defense fund," added another. According to Mangione's LinkedIn profile, he is employed as a data engineer at TrueCar, a California-based online auto marketplace. A company spokesperson told AFP Mangione "has not been an employee of our company since 2023." Although he had been living in Hawaii ahead of the killing, he originally hails from Towson, Maryland, near Baltimore. He comes from a prominent and wealthy Italian-American family, according to the Baltimore Banner. The family owns local businesses, including the Hayfields Country Club, its website says. A standout student, Mangione graduated at the top of his high school class in 2016. In an interview with his local paper at the time, he praised his teachers for fostering a passion for learning beyond grades and encouraging intellectual curiosity. A former student who knew Mangione at the Gilman School told AFP the suspect struck him as "a normal guy, nice kid." Sign up to get our free daily email of the biggest stories! "There was nothing about him that was off, at least from my perception," this person said, asking that their name not be used. "Seemed to just be smiling, and kind of seemed like he was a smart kid. Ended up being valedictorian, which confirmed that," the former student said. Mangione went on to attend the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, where he completed both a bachelor's and master's degree in computer science by 2020, according to a university spokesperson. While at Penn, Mangione co-led a group of 60 undergraduates who collaborated on video game projects, as noted in a now-deleted university webpage, archived on the Wayback Machine. On Instagram, where his following has skyrocketed from hundreds to tens of thousands, Mangione shared snapshots of his travels in Mexico, Puerto Rico and Hawaii. He also posted shirtless photos flaunting a six-pack and appeared in celebratory posts with fellow members of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity. However, it is on X (formerly Twitter) that users have scoured Mangione's posts for potential motives. His header photo -- an X-ray of a spine with bolts -- remains cryptic, with no public explanation. Finding a coherent political ideology has also proved elusive, though he had written a review of Ted Kaczynski's manifesto on the online site goodreads, calling it "prescient." Kaczynski, known as the Unabomber, carried out a string of bombings in the United States from 1978 to 1995, a campaign he said was aimed at halting the advance of modern society and technology. Mangione called Kaczynski "rightfully imprisoned," while also saying "'violence never solved anything' is a statement uttered by cowards and predators." According to CNN, handwritten documents recovered when Mangione was arrested included the phrase "these parasites had it coming." Mangione has also linked approvingly to posts criticizing secularism as a harmful consequence of Christianity's decline. In April, he wrote, "Horror vacui (nature abhors a vacuum)." The following month, he posted an essay he wrote in high school titled "How Christianity Prospered by Appealing to the Lower Classes of Ancient Rome." In another post from April, he speculated that Japan's low birthrate stems from societal disconnection, adding that "fleshlights" and other vaginal-replica sex toys should be banned. ia/nro/dwNoneMeet Peach and Blossom, two lucky birds expected to get a mealtime reprieve Monday from President Joe Biden during the White House's annual Thanksgiving turkey pardon. The Minnesota-born turkeys weigh 40 and 41 pounds. They were hatched on July 18 in Northfield, Minnesota, and raised on a farm by John Zimmerman, chairman of the National Turkey Federation, and his 9-year-old son, Grant, who introduced the birds at an event in Washington. Zimmerman told reporters Sunday that raising the birds meant added training for being calm in a city environment. The event at the White House generally includes a speech from the president, a few jokes and the clattering of dozens of cameras along side the normal city traffic noises. "In order for these birds to be prepared for the hustle and bustle that they will experience in DC, we've been getting them used to lights, camera and even introducing them to a wide variety of music, everything from polka to classic rock. Grant and some other kids from our neighborhood, some of them who could join us here today, have done an amazing job helping raise these turkeys to feel comfortable and ready for the big event at the White House," Zimmerman said. More: Presidential turkey pardons: An illustrated guide to the Thanksgiving tradition Sign-up for Your Vote: Text with the USA TODAY elections team. The about 17-week-old turkeys gobbled and strutted around the famed Willard InterContinental Washington Hotel during the press conference. The birds stay at the hotel ahead of their short White House visit. After being pardoned by Biden at 11 a.m. ET Monday, the turkeys will return to live at Farmamerica, an agricultural interpretive center in Waseca, Minnesota. Not every one is a fan of the 77-year-old tradition , with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals calling it a "humiliating meat-industry stunt that uses the White House as its public relations backdrop,” in a letter this week calling for Biden to stop it.

How Tarsus Pharmaceuticals' Unique Inspiration Is Driving A Triple-Digit RunBRAINERD — A proposed 2025 4% levy increase will be presented to Brainerd residents during the City Council’s truth in taxation hearing Dec. 2. This number is a reduction from the preliminary 8% levy increase approved in September and could still change before a final levy is approved. Discussion surrounding funding for the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport and how that would impact the levy continued during the council’s meeting on Monday, Nov. 18 ADVERTISEMENT Council member Gabe Johnson, chair of the Personnel and Finance Committee, told the council of a couple of recent proposed changes to the budget. The committee’s proposal would have reduced the levy increase to 4.75% over 2024. It included a $100,000 reduction in the capital budget and a $100,000 reduction in the Park Board’s facility funding request each year. There was also a $10,000 reduction in funds budgeted for street tree replacement. Monday’s proposal also included $125,000 for an airport levy, which is an increase from the previously approved levy of $1,000. Council member Jeff Czeczok proposed the $1,000 in September as opposed to the airport’s request of $225,000. An earlier issue regarded Brainerd’s request not to have double taxation on Brainerd residents, who paid into both the city and county levies for the airport. A year ago, then Crow Wing County Administrator Tim Houle said the city of Brainerd represents 6% of the total tax base in Crow Wing County. That means that of the $157,000 the county planned to levy for the airport in 2024, $9,420 will come from Brainerd residents. “While we cannot exclude them from our levy, we could agree to increasing our levy by that amount and let the city decrease their levy by that amount and, in essence, we would leave the city residents whole on the issue of being taxed twice,” Houle wrote. In November 2023, the County Board authorized the increase of its 2024 levy by $9,420, while Brainerd reduced its levy by the same amount. The county reported that remedy, once it was set last year, continues going forward. At that time, the County Board also agreed to continue talks with city officials about the long-term ownership of the airport. The county noted there were also other areas for discussion, such as staff support, it was willing to undertake. One option — raised at the time of the double taxation discussion in 2023 at the County Board — was for the county to take full ownership of the airport. Brainerd City Council members at that time said they weren’t necessarily opposed to the idea but were looking for more information . The city approached Crow Wing County earlier this year about having the county take over sole ownership of the airport, but a letter from county staff said it was not an issue they wanted to pursue. In August, Crow Wing County Commissioner Steve Barrows said he did not support the ownership change — neither did Airport Director Steve Wright nor Brainerd City Council member airport liaison Kevin Stunek. ADVERTISEMENT As the airport is jointly owned by the city and the county, there is an ownership agreement between the two entities, though the agreement does not specifically state how much each entity must levy for airport operations each year. In 1947, Brainerd resident Walter Wieland urged the City of Brainerd, in conjunction with Crow Wing County, to develop an Airport Commission in an effort to own and operate an airport. The Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport website notes an application was made and money from local, state and federal sources combined to create the airport, previously known as the Brainerd Crow Wing County Municipal Airport. Reached by phone Wednesday night, Barrows, who is the county liaison to the airport commission, said the county was willing to talk about ownership but it was already late in the game for the 2025 budget process. The county adopted its preliminary tax levy on Sept. 24. A discussion with the Federal Aviation Administration listed an 18-24 month time period to remove Brainerd from the ownership agreement, Barrows said. He said the county didn’t walk away, but said no changes in 2024. He said they are willing to talk about 2026 if the city initiates that conversation. Barrows said it seems Brainerd officials felt it was doable for the county to come up with another $150,000 after they were already deep into staff work for the 2025 budget. “There is a year to work on it,” Barrows said. “Now is the time for them to come back to have these discussions. ... This is not a thing that can happen overnight with the snap of a finger. We know they want out. ... Let’s do a planful approach to their exit.” Barrows said the county has represented itself professionally in this process. ADVERTISEMENT In September, Czeczok said the biggest issue for him is the levy, as the airport is an asset to the entire region — not just Brainerd or even Crow Wing County. The county taking over the entire or at least the majority of the levy, Czeczok said, would give relief to Brainerd taxpayers. The whole point is transferring ownership to the county, he added, was so Brainerd would not have to levy at all for the airport. Council members discussed a $150,000 airport levy at a meeting in September, marginally increasing it from the $146,080 levy in 2024. The motion for the amount failed, though, with Mayor Dave Badeaux breaking the 3-3 tie, with one council member absent. The $125,000 proposed Monday night started at that $150,000 mark but deducted $25,000 to account for the finance and human resources work performed by city staff at the airport each year. Czeczok was not in favor of the increase, saying the $1,000 airport levy was all about fairness to Brainerd taxpayers. The county has the ability to administer the entire levy, he said, and it’s not the city’s responsibility to match what the county does. Barrows said present and past Brainerd City Councils, not the County Board, decided to contribute financially and at what level in support of the airport that is in shared ownership. “Our negotiation is simple,” Czeczok said. “We say we’re going to give $1,000, and we do that. And the next year, the county said, OK, they’re only going to pay 1,000 bucks. Are we going to have the airport get the operating levy they need to operate, or are we going to sit here and play patty cake and go back and forth because somebody’s got a petty issue? ... Petty politics is all we see happening here, and I’m looking out for our taxpayers.” Council President Kelly Bevans said he agreed with Czeczok. The double taxation of Brainerd taxpayers, he said, is something the city can fix right now. ADVERTISEMENT “The additional tragedy is not only the double taxation but the fact that we made a proposal in writing to the county to discuss this,” Bevans said. “... And it appears they’re not interested in even discussing the administration of the levy.” As much as he said the $125,000 might be necessary to run the airport, Bevans said it should not fall on Brainerd taxpayers. The motion to approve the Personnel and Finance Committee’s proposal, including the $125,000 for the airport, failed 5-2, with Tiffany Stenglein and Kara Terry the only ones in support. A subsequent motion for only the capital and streets portion of the recommendation passed 6-1, with Terry in opposition. The airport levy back at $1,000, Johnson suggested presenting a 4% levy increase to residents during the public hearing in December. He said he did not know what the exact number would be with the $124,000 airport levy reduction from the proposal but figured 4% would allow the council to further reduce the levy if needed. Czeczok said he liked 4%. The motion to present 4% at the public hearing passed 6-1, with Terry opposed. The council’s public hearing on the final levy will take place at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2, at City Hall. The council must pass the final levy before the end of the year. ADVERTISEMENT Managing Editor Renee Richardson assisted with this story. THERESA BOURKE may be reached at theresa.bourke@brainerddispatch.com or 218-855-5860. Follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/DispatchTheresa .

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NoneFormer Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh has died at the age of 92. Singh was one of India's longest-serving prime ministers and he was considered the architect of key liberalising economic reforms, as premier from 2004-2014 and before that as finance minister. He had been admitted to a hospital in the capital Delhi after his health condition deteriorated, reports say. Singh was the first Indian leader since Jawaharlal Nehru to be re-elected after serving a full first term, and the first Sikh to hold the country's top post. He made a public apology in parliament for the 1984 riots in which some 3,000 Sikhs were killed. But his second term in office was marred by a string of corruption allegations that dogged his administration. The scandals, many say, were partially responsible for his Congress party's crushing defeat in the 2014 general election. Singh was born on 26 September 1932, in a desolate village in the Punjab province of undivided India, which lacked both water and electricity. After attending Panjab University he took a master's degree at the University of Cambridge and then a DPhil at Oxford. While studying at Cambridge, the lack of funds bothered Singh, his daughter, Daman Singh, wrote in a book on her parents. "His tuition and living expenses came to about £600 a year. The Panjab University scholarship gave him about £160. For the rest he had to depend on his father. Manmohan was careful to live very stingily. Subsidised meals in the dining hall were relatively cheap at two shillings sixpence." Daman Singh remembered her father as "completely helpless about the house and could neither boil an egg, nor switch on the television". Singh rose to political prominence as India's finance minister in 1991, taking over as the country was plunging into bankruptcy. His unexpected appointment capped a long and illustrious career as an academic and civil servant - he served as an economic adviser to the government, and became the governor of India's central bank. In his maiden speech as finance minister he famously quoted Victor Hugo, saying that "no power on Earth can stop an idea whose time has come". That served as a launchpad for an ambitious and unprecedented economic reform programme: he cut taxes, devalued the rupee, privatised state-run companies and encouraged foreign investment. The economy revived, industry picked up, inflation was checked and growth rates remained consistently high in the 1990s. Manmohan Singh was a man acutely aware of his lack of a political base. "It is nice to be a statesman, but in order to be a statesman in a democracy you first have to win elections," he once said. When he tried to win election to India's lower house in 1999, he was defeated. He sat instead in the upper house, chosen by his own Congress party. The same happened in 2004, when Singh was first appointed prime minister after Congress president Sonia Gandhi turned down the post - apparently to protect the party from damaging attacks over her Italian origins. Critics however alleged that Sonia Gandhi was the real source of power while he was prime minister, and that he was never truly in charge. The biggest triumph during his first five-year term was to bring India out of nuclear isolation by signing a landmark deal securing access to American nuclear technology. But the deal came at a price - the government's Communist allies withdrew support after protesting against it, and Congress had to make up lost numbers by enlisting the support of another party amid charges of vote-buying. A consensus builder, Singh presided over a coalition of sometimes difficult, assertive and potentially unruly regional coalition allies and supporters. Although he earned respect for his integrity and intelligence, he also had a reputation for being soft and indecisive. Some critics claimed that the pace of reform slowed and he failed to achieve the same momentum he had while finance minister. When Singh guided Congress to a second, decisive election victory in 2009, he vowed that the party would "rise to the occasion". But the gloss soon began to wear off and his second term was in the news mostly for all the wrong reasons: several scandals involving his cabinet ministers which allegedly cost the country billions of dollars, a parliament stalled by the opposition, and a huge policy paralysis that resulted in a serious economic downturn. LK Advani, a senior leader in the rival BJP party, called Singh India's "weakest prime minister". Manmohan Singh defended his record, saying his government had worked with "utmost commitment and dedication for the country and the welfare of its people". Singh adopted the pragmatic foreign policies pursued by his two predecessors. He continued the peace process with Pakistan - though this process was hampered by attacks blamed on Pakistani militants, culminating in the Mumbai gun and bomb attack of November 2008. He tried to end the border dispute with China, brokering a deal to reopen the Nathu La pass into Tibet which had been closed for more than 40 years. Singh increased financial support for Afghanistan and became the first Indian leader to visit the country for nearly 30 years. He also angered many opposition politicians by appearing to end relations with India's old ally, Iran. A studious former academic and bureaucrat, he was known for being self-effacing and always kept a low profile. His social media account was noted mostly for dull entries and had a limited number of followers. A man of few words, his calm demeanour nevertheless won him many admirers. Responding to questions on a coal scandal involving the illegal allocation of licences worth billions of dollars, he defended his silence on the issue by saying it was "better than thousands of answers". In 2015 he was summoned to appear in court to answer allegations of criminal conspiracy, breach of trust and corruption related offences. An upset Singh told reporters that he was "open for legal scrutiny" and that the "truth will prevail". After his time as premier, Singh remained deeply engaged with the issues of the day as a senior leader of the main opposition Congress party despite his advancing age. In August 2020, he told the BBC in a rare interview that India needed to take three steps "immediately" to stem the economic damage of the coronavirus pandemic, which had sent the country's economy into a recession. The government needed to provide direct cash assistance to people, make capital available for businesses, and fix the financial sector, he said. History will remember Singh for bringing India out of economic and nuclear isolation, although some historians may suggest he should have retired earlier. "I honestly believe that history will be kinder to me than the contemporary media, or for that matter, the opposition parties in parliament," he told an interviewer in 2014. Singh is survived by his wife and three daughters.Grading the Giants’ 30-7 loss to the Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium on Sunday. Offense Forget about any of the final stats, which look bad but not embarrassing. This was abominable. Three first downs and 45 total yards in the first half. Everyone knew Todd Bowles would blitz like crazy — everyone but the offensive line, apparently. Tommy DeVito (21 of 31, 189 yards) was overwhelmed in the first half. He was sacked four times in the game. Rookie Tyrone Tracy (9-42) had another costly fumble — it is becoming a problem. Malik Nabers (6-64) was not targeted in the first half, had some drops and is growing frustrated . No catches (only two targets) for Darius Slayton. C John Michael Schmitz was obliterated by Vita Vea on a second-quarter sack. LT Jermaine Eluemunor (quad) went out early. Daniel Jones clearly wasn’t the only problem, was he? Grade: F Defense Oh, there goes another missed tackle by the Gang That Couldn’t Wrap Up. High school teams get ballcarriers to the ground better than this. Baker Mayfield (24 of 30, 294 yards) ran for a TD and then mocked the Giants with DeVito’s signature hand gesture. To the victors go the taunting. Bucky Irving (12-87) led a 156-yard rushing attack. A missed tackle by Bobby Okereke set up the first Bucs TD. Okereke did force a fumble on Sean Tucker that forced Tampa to settle for a field goal. Tyler Nubin had a nice pass breakup on Mike Evans in the first quarter but the rookie safety whiffed several times. An illegal-contact penalty on Deonte Banks led to a Bucs TD. Banks seemed content to allow receivers to catch the ball in front of him and then try to make the tackle. Adoree’ Jackson blatantly dragged down Evans for a 23-yard pass interference penalty. D.J. Davidson had a fumble recovery. Grade: F Special Teams Jamie Gillan’s first punt put the Bucs back on their 16-yard line. His next punt sailed 53 yards and out of bounds on the Tampa 18. He put three down inside the 20. Good kickoff coverage to pin the Bucs back on their 2-yard line. No field goal attempts for the Giants. Grade: B Coaching If we hear “We had a good week of practice’’ one more time we’re going to have to throw something against the wall. Whatever Brian Daboll is selling, his players aren’t buying — and it is getting worse. It smacked of desperation to see Daboll go for it on fourth-and-1 on the Giants 37 late in the first quarter. As for defensive coordinator Shane Bowen, what exactly is his unit good at doing? Tackling is terrible, pass rush is suspect and stopping the run is optional. Grade: F

Libra - (23rd September to 22nd October) Daily Horoscope Prediction says, You are an icon of discipline Value the relationship with sincerity and honesty. Do not compromise on duties at the workplace. Financially you are good and your health is also fine today. Confirm a happy love life where you meet the demands of the lover and spend time together. Accomplish all assigned tasks at the workplace. Financial prosperity exists in the life. No major illness will trouble you. Libra Love Horoscope Today You need to realize that no relationship is permanent and many twists and unexpected events can make your day chaotic. Some unjustifiable comments can seriously impact the flow of love. You may go back to the old relationship after resolving all old issues with the ex-lover. Today is also good to have a romantic dinner where you may also surprise the lover with gifts. Female Libras will find fun in teasing the lover but ensure it does not personally impact him. Single Libras will be happy to fall in love today. Libra Career Horoscope Today Your commitment will work out at the office. Some media persons will also face challenges professionally. Stay away from office politics and ensure you stay in the good book of the management. Salespersons will travel for job reasons while businessmen will succeed in raising funds through promoters. Some Aries IT professionals will get opportunities to relocate abroad. Students will also be fortunate to clear competitive examinations. Entrepreneurs need to be confident while making crucial business decisions. Libra Money Horoscope Today Keep the financial status under control. Do not let expenditure shoot up in the way that it disturbs the income. Some Libras will be successful in the stock market but there can also be setbacks in the form of legal expenditure. Traders and businessmen may receive good funds but there will issues with funds from abroad. Take the help of a good financial planner to understand how to safely invest and enhance your wealth in the long run. Libra Health Horoscope Today Minor health issues may be there but your normal life will go on. Avoid stress-related issues by staying in a positive atmosphere. Maintain a balanced office and personal life and also stay in the company of people with positive attitudes. Some females will have skin infections while viral fever, sore throat, and allergies will also be common today. Libra Sign Attributes Strength: Idealist, Socially presentable, Aesthetic, Charming, Artsy, Generous Weakness: Uncertain, Lazy, Non-interventionist Symbol: Scales Element: Air Body Part: Kidneys & Bladder Sign Ruler: Venus Lucky Day: Friday Lucky Color: Brown Lucky Number: 3 Lucky Stone: Diamond Libra Sign Compatibility Chart Natural affinity: Gemini, Leo, Sagittarius, Aquarius Good compatibility: Aries, Libra Fair compatibility: Taurus, Virgo, Scorpio, Pisces Less compatibility: Cancer, Capricorn By: Dr. J. N. Pandey Vedic Astrology & Vastu Expert Website: www.astrologerjnpandey.com E-mail: djnpandey@gmail.com Phone: 91-9811107060 (WhatsApp Only)None

Hudson Meek, the 16-year-old actor who appeared in “Baby Driver,” died last week after falling from a moving vehicle in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, according to CNN affiliate WVTM. The teen sustained blunt force trauma in the fall on Dec. 19 and was admitted to the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital, where he died from his injuries on Dec. 21, the Jefferson County Coroner’s office told CNN affiliate WVTM. “His 16 years on this earth were far too short, but he accomplished so much and significantly impacted everyone he met,” reads a post on his Instagram account. Hudson Meek attends the "A Different Man" premiere during the Deauville American Film Festival in Deauville, France, on September 9. Francois G. Durand/Getty Images/File via CNN Newsource Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack The teen actor had various acting and voice over credits, most notably playing a younger version of Ansel Elgort’s character Baby in 2017 movie “Baby Driver.” People are also reading... Meek also voiced the lead in “Badanamu Stories” — a children’s show that examines themes relevant to preschoolers, according to IMDb. He also appeared in shows including NBC’s “Found” and The CW’s “Legacies,” as well as the recently released thriller “The School Duel.” Meek’s obituary described the teenager as a “reflective and thoughtful” avid traveler and fan of the outdoors. “He loved snow-skiing and could easily navigate the hardest trails that no one else in the family would dare attempt,” the obituary read. “One of his favorite places to be was at the lake, tubing and wakeboarding.” The Vestavia Hills Police Department is still investigating the circumstances surrounding Meek’s death, WTVM reported. CNN has reached out to Vestavia Hills police for more information on the incident. Photos: Notable deaths in 2024 Andreas Brehme Germany players celebrate after Andreas Brehme, left on ground, scores the winning goal in the World Cup soccer final match against Argentina, in the Olympic Stadium, in Rome, July 8, 1990. Andreas Brehme, who scored the only goal as West Germany beat Argentina to win the 1990 World Cup final, died Feb. 20, 2024. He was 63. AP Photo/Carlo Fumagalli, File Brian Mulroney Brian Mulroney, the former prime minister of Canada, listens during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on the Canada-U.S.-Mexico relationship, Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2018, on Capitol Hill in Washington. Mulroney died at the age of 84 on Feb. 29, 2024. Jacquelyn Martin The Rev. James Lawson Jr. The Rev. James Lawson Jr. speaks Sept. 17, 2015, in Murfreesboro, Tenn. Lawson Jr., an apostle of nonviolent protest who schooled activists to withstand brutal reactions from white authorities as the Civil Rights Movement gained traction, has died, his family said Monday. He was 95. His family said Lawson died on Sunday after a short illness in Los Angeles, where he spent decades working as a pastor, labor movement organizer and university professor. Lawson was a close adviser to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., who called him “the leading theorist and strategist of nonviolence in the world.” Lawson met King in 1957, after spending three years in India soaking up knowledge about Mohandas K. Gandhi’s independence movement. King would travel to India himself two years later, but at the time, he had only read about Gandhi in books. Mark Humphrey, Associated Press Jerry West Basketball Hall of Fame inductee Jerry West, representing the 1960 USA Olympic Team, is seen Aug. 13, 2010, during the enshrinement news conference at the Hall of Fame Museum in Springfield, Mass. Jerry West, who was selected to the Basketball Hall of Fame three times in a storied career as a player and executive, and whose silhouette is considered to be the basis of the NBA logo, died June 12, the Los Angeles Clippers announced. He was 86. West, nicknamed “Mr. Clutch” for his late-game exploits as a player, was an NBA champion who went into the Hall of Fame as a player in 1980 and again as a member of the gold medal-winning 1960 U.S. Olympic Team in 2010. He will be enshrined for a third time later this year as a contributor, and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver called West “one of the greatest executives in sports history.” Elise Amendola, Associated Press Ron Simons Actor and director Ron Simons, seen Jan. 23, 2011, during the 2011 Sundance Film Festival, died June 12. Simons turned into a formidable screen and stage producer, winning four Tony Awards and having several films selected at the Sundance Film Festival. He won Tonys for producing “Porgy and Bess,” “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder,” “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” and “Jitney.” He also co-produced “Hughie,” with Forest Whitaker, “The Gin Game,” starring Cicely Tyson and James Earl Jones, “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations,” an all-Black production of “A Streetcar Named Desire,” the revival of "for colored girls who have considered suicide/when the rainbow is enuf" and the original work “Thoughts of a Colored Man.” He was in the films “27 Dresses” and “Mystery Team,” as well as on the small screen in “The Resident,” “Law & Order,” “Law & Order: Criminal Intent” and “Law & Order: SVU.” Victoria Will, Associated Press Bob Schul Bob Schul of West Milton, Ohio, hits the tape Oct. 18, 1964, to win the 5,000 meter run at the Olympic Games in Tokyo. Schul, the only American distance runner to win the 5,000 meters at the Olympics, died June 16. He was 86. His death was announced by Miami University in Ohio, where Schul shined on the track and was inducted into the school’s hall of fame in 1973. Schul predicted gold leading into the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and followed through with his promise. On a rainy day in Japan, he finished the final lap in a blistering 54.8 seconds to sprint to the win. His white shorts were covered in mud at the finish. He was inducted into the USA Track and Field Hall of Fame in 1991. He also helped write a book called “In the Long Run.” Associated Press Willie Mays San Francisco Giants superstar Willie Mays poses for a photo during baseball spring training in 1972. Mays, the electrifying “Say Hey Kid” whose singular combination of talent, drive and exuberance made him one of baseball’s greatest and most beloved players, died June 18. He was 93. The center fielder, who began his professional career in the Negro Leagues in 1948, had been baseball’s oldest living Hall of Famer. He was voted into the Hall in 1979, his first year of eligibility, and in 1999 followed only Babe Ruth on The Sporting News’ list of the game’s top stars. The Giants retired his uniform number, 24, and set their AT&T Park in San Francisco on Willie Mays Plaza. Mays died two days before a game between the Giants and St. Louis Cardinals to honor the Negro Leagues at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama. Over 23 major league seasons, virtually all with the New York/San Francisco Giants but also including one in the Negro Leagues, Mays batted .301, hit 660 home runs, totaled 3,293 hits, scored more than 2,000 runs and won 12 Gold Gloves. He was Rookie of the Year in 1951, twice was named the Most Valuable Player and finished in the top 10 for the MVP 10 other times. His lightning sprint and over-the-shoulder grab of an apparent extra base hit in the 1954 World Series remains the most celebrated defensive play in baseball history. For millions in the 1950s and ’60s and after, the smiling ballplayer with the friendly, high-pitched voice was a signature athlete and showman during an era when baseball was still the signature pastime. Awarded the Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2015, Mays left his fans with countless memories. But a single feat served to capture his magic — one so untoppable it was simply called “The Catch.” Associated Press Donald Sutherland Actor Donald Sutherland appears Oct. 13, 2017, at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in Beverly Hills, Calif. Sutherland, the Canadian actor whose wry, arrestingly off-kilter screen presence spanned more than half a century of films from “M.A.S.H.” to “The Hunger Games,” died June 20. He was 88. Kiefer Sutherland said on X he believed his father was one of the most important actors in the history of film: “Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly. He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that.” The tall and gaunt Sutherland, who flashed a grin that could be sweet or diabolical, was known for offbeat characters like Hawkeye Pierce in Robert Altman's "M.A.S.H.," the hippie tank commander in "Kelly's Heroes" and the stoned professor in "Animal House." Before transitioning into a long career as a respected character actor, Sutherland epitomized the unpredictable, antiestablishment cinema of the 1970s. He never stopped working, appearing in nearly 200 films and series. Over the decades, Sutherland showed his range in more buttoned-down — but still eccentric — roles in Robert Redford's "Ordinary People" and Oliver Stone's "JFK." More, recently, he starred in the “Hunger Games” films. A memoir, “Made Up, But Still True,” is due out in November. Chris Pizzello, Associated Press Bill Cobbs Actor Bill Cobbs, a cast member in "Get Low," arrives July 27, 2010, at the premiere of the film in Beverly Hills, Calif. Cobbs, the veteran character actor who became a ubiquitous and sage screen presence as an older man, died June 25. He was 90. A Cleveland native, Cobbs acted in such films as “The Hudsucker Proxy,” “The Bodyguard” and “Night at the Museum.” He made his first big-screen appearance in a fleeting role in 1974's “The Taking of Pelham One Two Three." He became a lifelong actor with some 200 film and TV credits. The lion share of those came in his 50s, 60s, and 70s, as filmmakers and TV producers turned to him again and again to imbue small but pivotal parts with a wizened and worn soulfulness. Cobbs appeared on television shows including “The Sopranos," “The West Wing,” “Sesame Street” and “Good Times.” He was Whitney Houston's manager in “The Bodyguard” (1992), the mystical clock man of the Coen brothers' “The Hudsucker Proxy” (1994) and the doctor of John Sayles' “Sunshine State” (2002). He played the coach in “Air Bud” (1997), the security guard in “Night at the Museum” (2006) and the father on “The Gregory Hines Show." Cobbs rarely got the kinds of major parts that stand out and win awards. Instead, Cobbs was a familiar and memorable everyman who left an impression on audiences, regardless of screen time. He won a Daytime Emmy Award for outstanding limited performance in a daytime program for the series “Dino Dana” in 2020. Chris Pizzello, Associated Press Kinky Friedman Independent gubernatorial candidate Kinky Friedman speaks with the media Nov. 7, 2009, at his campaign headquarters in Austin, Texas. The singer, songwriter, satirist and novelist, who led the alt-country band Texas Jewboys, toured with Bob Dylan, sang with Willie Nelson, and dabbled in politics with campaigns for Texas governor and other statewide offices, died June 27. He was 79 and had suffered from Parkinson's disease. Often called “The Kinkster" and sporting sideburns, a thick mustache and cowboy hat, Friedman earned a cult following and reputation as a provocateur throughout his career across musical and literary genres. In the 1970s, his satirical country band Kinky Friedman and the Texas Jewboys wrote songs with titles such as “They Ain't Makin' Jews Like Jesus Anymore” and “Get Your Biscuits in the Oven and Your Buns in Bed.” Friedman joined part of Bob Dylan's Rolling Thunder Revue tour in 1976. By the 1980s, Friedman was writing crime novels that often included a version of himself, and he wrote a column for Texas Monthly magazine in the 2000s. Friedman's run at politics brought his brand of irreverence to the serious world of public policy. In 2006, Friedman ran for governor as an independent in a five-way race that included incumbent Republican Rick Perry. Friedman launched his campaign against the backdrop of the Alamo. Eric Gay, Associated Press Martin Mull Martin Mull participates in "The Cool Kids" panel during the Fox Television Critics Association Summer Press Tour on Aug. 2, 2018, at The Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif. Mull, whose droll, esoteric comedy and acting made him a hip sensation in the 1970s and later a beloved guest star on sitcoms including “Roseanne” and “Arrested Development,” died June 28. He was 80. Mull, who was also a guitarist and painter, came to national fame with a recurring role on the Norman Lear-created satirical soap opera “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,” and the starring role in its spinoff, “Fernwood Tonight." His first foray into show business was as a songwriter, penning the 1970 semi-hit “A Girl Named Johnny Cash” for singer Jane Morgan. He would combine music and comedy in an act that he brought to hip Hollywood clubs in the 1970s. Mull often played slightly sleazy, somewhat slimy and often smarmy characters as he did as Teri Garr's boss and Michael Keaton's foe in 1983's “Mr. Mom.” He played Colonel Mustard in the 1985 movie adaptation of the board game “Clue,” which, like many things Mull appeared in, has become a cult classic. The 1980s also brought what many thought was his best work, “A History of White People in America,” a mockumentary that first aired on Cinemax. Mull co-created the show and starred as a “60 Minutes” style investigative reporter investigating all things milquetoast and mundane. Willard was again a co-star. In the 1990s he was best known for his recurring role on several seasons on “Roseanne,” in which he played a warmer, less sleazy boss to the title character, an openly gay man whose partner was played by Willard, who died in 2020. Mull would later play private eye Gene Parmesan on “Arrested Development,” a cult-classic character on a cult-classic show, and would be nominated for an Emmy, his first, in 2016 for a guest run on “Veep.” Willy Sanjuan, Invision Robert Towne Screenwriter Robert Towne poses at The Regency Hotel, March 7, 2006, in New York. Towne, the Oscar-winning screenplay writer of "Shampoo," "The Last Detail" and other acclaimed films whose work on "Chinatown" became a model of the art form and helped define the jaded allure of his native Los Angeles, died Monday, July 1, 2024, surrounded by family at his home in Los Angeles, said publicist Carri McClure. She declined to comment on any cause of death. Jim Cooper - stringer, ASSOCIATED PRESS Vic Seixas Vic Seixas of the United States backhands a volley from Denmark's Jurgen Ulrich in the first round of men's singles match at Wimbledon, England, June 27, 1967. Vic Seixas, a Wimbledon winner and tennis Hall of Famer who was the oldest living Grand Slam champion, has died July 5 at the age of 100. The International Tennis Hall of Fame announced Seixas’ death on Saturday July 6, 2024, based on confirmation from his daughter Tori. AP Photo/File James Inhofe In this June 30, 2020, file photo, Sen. James Inhofe, R-Okla., speaks to reporters following a GOP policy meeting on Capitol Hill in Washington. Former Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma died July 9. He was 89. The family says in a statement that the Republican had a stroke during the July Fourth holiday and died Tuesday morning. Inhofe was a powerful fixture in state politics for decades. He doubted that climate change was caused by human activity, calling the theory “the greatest hoax ever perpetrated on the American people.” As Oklahoma’s senior U.S. senator, he was a staunch supporter of the state’s military installations. He was elected to a fifth Senate term in 2020 and stepped down in early 2023. Manuel Balce Ceneta Joe Bonsall The Oak Ridge Boys, from left, Joe Bonsall, Richard Sterban, Duane Allen and William Lee Golden hold their awards for Top Vocal Group and Best Album of the Year for "Ya'll Come Back Saloon", during the 14th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards in Los Angeles, Calif., May 3, 1979. Bonsall died on July 9, 2024, from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Hendersonville, Tenn. He was 76. A Philadelphia native and resident of Hendersonville, Tennessee, Bonsall joined the Oak Ridge Boys in 1973, which originally formed in the 1940s. He saw the band through its golden period in the '80s and beyond, which included their signature 1981 song “Elvira.” The hit marked a massive crossover moment for the group, reaching No. 1 on the country chart and No. 5 on Billboard’s all-genre Hot 100. The group is also known for such hits as 1982’s “Bobbie Sue." Lennox Mclendon - staff, ASSOCIATED PRESS Shelley Duvall Shelley Duvall poses for photographers at the 30th Cannes Film Festival in France, May 27, 1977. Duvall, whose wide-eyed, winsome presence was a mainstay in the films of Robert Altman and who co-starred in Stanley Kubrick's “The Shining,” died July 11. She was 75. Jean-Jacques Levy - staff, ASSOCIATED PRESS Dr. Ruth Westheimer Dr. Ruth Westheimer holds a copy of her book "Sex for Dummies" at the International Frankfurt Book Fair 'Frankfurter Buchmesse' in Frankfurt, Germany, Thursday, Oct. 11, 2007. Westheimer, the sex therapist who became a pop icon, media star and best-selling author through her frank talk about once-taboo bedroom topics, died on July 12, 2024. She was 96. Bernd Kammerer - stringer, ASSOCIATED PRESS Richard Simmons Richard Simmons sits for a portrait in Los Angeles, June 23, 1982. Simmons, a fitness guru who urged the overweight to exercise and eat better, died July 13 at the age of 76. Simmons was a court jester of physical fitness who built a mini-empire in his trademark tank tops and short shorts by urging the overweight to exercise and eat better. Simmons was a former 268-pound teen who shared his hard-won weight loss tips as the host of the Emmy-winning daytime “Richard Simmons Show" and the “Sweatin' to the Oldies” line of exercise videos, which became a cultural phenomenon. Richard Drew - staff, ASSOCIATED PRESS Jacoby Jones Former NFL receiver Jacoby Jones died July 14 at age 40. Jones' 108-yard kickoff return in 2013 remains the longest touchdown in Super Bowl history. The Houston Texans were Jones’ team for the first five seasons of his career. They announced his death on Sunday. In a statement released by the NFL Players Association, his family said he died at his home in New Orleans. A cause of death was not given. Jones played from 2007-15 for the Texans, Baltimore Ravens, San Diego Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers. He made several huge plays for the Ravens during their most recent Super Bowl title season, including that kick return. AP File Photo Shannen Doherty The "Beverly Hills, 90210" star whose life and career were roiled by tabloid stories, Shannen Doherty died July 13 at 53. Doherty's publicist said the actor died Saturday following years with breast cancer. Catapulted to fame as Brenda in “Beverly Hills, 90210,” she worked in big-screen films including "Mallrats" and "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back" and in TV movies including "A Burning Passion: The Margaret Mitchell Story," in which she played the "Gone with the Wind" author. Doherty co-starred with Holly Marie Combs and Alyssa Milano in the series “Charmed” from 1998-2001; appeared in the “90210” sequel series seven years later and competed on “Dancing with the Stars” in 2010. Peter Kramer, Associated Press James Sikking Actor James Sikking poses for a photograph at the Los Angeles gala celebrating the 20th anniversary of the National Organization for Women, Dec. 1, 1986. Sikking, who starred as a hardened police lieutenant on “Hill Street Blues” and as the titular character's kindhearted dad on “Doogie Howser, M.D.,” died July 13 of complications from dementia, his publicist Cynthia Snyder said in a statement. He was 90. Avery - staff, ASSOCIATED PRESS Pat Williams Pat Williams chats with media before the 2004 NBA draft in Orlando, Fla. Williams, a co-founder of the Orlando Magic and someone who spent more than a half-century working within the NBA, died July 17 from complications related to viral pneumonia. The team announced the death Wednesday. Williams was 84. He started his NBA career as business manager of the Philadelphia 76ers in 1968, then had stints as general manager of the Chicago Bulls, the Atlanta Hawks and the 76ers — helping that franchise win a title in 1983. Williams was later involved in starting the process of bringing an NBA team to Orlando. The league’s board of governors granted an expansion franchise in 1987, and the team began play in 1989. AP File Photo Lou Dobbs Lou Dobbs speaks Feb. 24, 2017, at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Oxon Hill, Md. Dobbs, the conservative political pundit and veteran cable TV host who was a founding anchor for CNN and later was a nightly presence on Fox Business Network for more than a decade, died July 18. He was 78. His death was announced in a post on his official X account, which called him a “fighter till the very end – fighting for what mattered to him the most, God, his family and the country.” He hosted “Lou Dobbs Tonight” on Fox from 2011 to 2021, following two separate stints at CNN. No cause of death was given. Alex Brandon, Associated Press Bob Newhart Bob Newhart, center, poses with members of the cast and crew of the "Bob Newhart Show," from top left, Marcia Wallace, Bill Daily, Jack Riley, and, Suzanne Pleshette, foreground left, and Dick Martin at TV Land's 35th anniversary tribute to "The Bob Newhart Show" on Sept. 5, 2007, in Beverly Hills, Calif. Newhart has died at age 94. Jerry Digney, Newhart’s publicist, says the actor died July 18 in Los Angeles after a series of short illnesses. The accountant-turned-comedian gained fame with a smash album and became one of the most popular TV stars of his time. Newhart was a Chicago psychologist in “The Bob Newhart Show” in the 1970s and a Vermont innkeeper on “Newhart” in the 1980s. Both shows featured a low-key Newhart surrounded by eccentric characters. The second had a twist ending in its final show — the whole series was revealed to have been a dream by the psychologist he played in the other show. Mark J. Terrill - staff, ASSOCIATED PRESS Cheng Pei-Pei Cheng Pei-pei, a Chinese-born martial arts film actor who starred in Ang Lee’s “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” died July 17 at age 78. Her family says Cheng, who had been diagnosed with a rare illness with symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease, passed away Wednesday at home surrounded by her loved ones. The Shanghai-born film star became a household name in Hong Kong, once dubbed the Hollywood of the Far East, for her performances in martial arts movies in the 1960s. She played Jade Fox, who uses poisoned needles, in “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” which was released in 2000, grossed $128 million in North America and won four Oscars. Chris Pizzello - invision linkable, Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP Abdul 'Duke' Fakir Abdul “Duke” Fakir holds his life time achievement award backstage at the 51st Annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 8, 2009, in Los Angeles. The last surviving original member of the Four Tops died July 22. Abdul “Duke” Fakir was 88. He was a charter member of the Motown group along with lead singer Levi Stubbs, Renaldo “Obie" Benson and Lawrence Payton. Between 1964 and 1967, the Tops had 11 top 20 hits and two No. 1′s: “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)” and the operatic classic “Reach Out I’ll Be There.” Other songs, often stories of romantic pain and longing, included “Baby I Need Your Loving,” “Standing in the Shadows of Love,” “Bernadette” and “Just Ask the Lonely.” Matt Sayles, Associated Press Bernice Johnson Reagon Sculptress Elizabeth Catlett, left, then-Washington D.C. Mayor Sharon Pratt Dixon, center, and then-curator, division of community life, Smithsonian institution Bernice Johnson Reagon chat during the reception at the Candace awards on June 25, 1991 in New York. Reagon, a musician and scholar who used her rich, powerful contralto voice in the service of the American Civil Rights Movement and human rights struggles around the world, died on July 16, 2024, according to her daughter's social media post. She was 81. Chrystyna Czajkowsky - staff, ASSOCIATED PRESS John Mayall John Mayall, the British blues musician whose influential band the Bluesbreakers was a training ground for Eric Clapton, Mick Fleetwood and many other superstars, died July 22. He was 90. He is credited with helping develop the English take on urban, Chicago-style rhythm and blues that played an important role in the blues revival of the late 1960s. A statement on Mayall's official Instagram page says he died Monday at his home in California. Though Mayall never approached the fame of some of his illustrious alumni, he was still performing in his late 80s, pounding out his version of Chicago blues. Sandro Campardo - foreign subscriber, ASSOCIATED PRESS Erica Ash Erica Ash, an actor and comedian skilled in sketch comedy who starred in the parody series “Mad TV” and “Real Husbands of Hollywood,” has died. She was 46. Her publicist and a statement by her mother, Diann, says Ash died July 28 in Los Angeles of cancer. Ash impersonated Michelle Obama and Condoleeza Rice on “Mad TV,” a Fox sketch series, and was a key performer on the Rosie O’Donnell-created series “The Big Gay Sketch Show.” Her other credits included “Scary Movie V,” “Uncle Drew” and the LeBron James-produced basketball dramedy “Survivor’s Remorse.” On the BET series “Real Husbands of Hollywood,” Ash played the ex-wife of Kevin Hart’s character. Richard Shotwell - invision linkable, Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP Jack Russell Jack Russell, the lead singer of the bluesy '80s metal band Great White whose hits included “Once Bitten Twice Shy” and “Rock Me” and was fronting his band the night 100 people died in a 2003 nightclub fire in Rhode Island, died Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. He was 63. AP Photo/Jill Connelly, file Chi Chi Rodriguez Juan “Chi Chi” Rodriguez, a Hall of Fame golfer whose antics on the greens and inspiring life story made him among the sport’s most popular players during a long professional career, died Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024. AP Photo/Steven Senne, File Susan Wojcicki Susan Wojcicki, the former YouTube chief executive officer and longtime Google executive, died Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, after suffering with non small cell lung cancer for the past two years. She was 56. AP Photo/Markus Schreiber Frank Selvy Frank Selvy, an All-America guard at Furman who scored an NCAA Division I-record 100 points in a game and later played nine NBA seasons, died Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024. He was 91. AP Photo/Mary Ann Chastain, File Wally Amos Wallace “Wally” Amos, the creator of the cookie empire that took his name and made it famous and who went on to become a children’s literacy advocate, died Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024, from complications with dementia. He was 88. AP Photo/Lucy Pemoni, File Gena Rowlands Gena Rowlands, hailed as one of the greatest actors to ever practice the craft and a guiding light in independent cinema as a star in groundbreaking movies by her director husband, John Cassavetes, and who later charmed audiences in her son's tear-jerker “The Notebook,” died Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024. She was 94. Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP, File Peter Marshall Peter Marshall, the actor and singer turned game show host who played straight man to the stars for 16 years on “The Hollywood Squares,” died. Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024 He was 98. Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP, File Alain Delon Alain Delon, the internationally acclaimed French actor who embodied both the bad guy and the policeman and made hearts throb around the world, died Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. He was 88. Arthur Mola/Invision/AP, File Phil Donahue Phil Donahue, whose pioneering daytime talk show launched an indelible television genre that brought success to Oprah Winfrey, Montel Williams, Ellen DeGeneres and many others, died Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, after a long illness. He was 88. AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, File Al Attles Al Attles, a Hall of Famer who coached the 1975 NBA champion Warriors and spent more than six decades with the organization as a player, general manager and most recently team ambassador, died Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2024. He was 87. AP Photo/Ben Margot, File John Amos John Amos, who starred as the family patriarch on the hit 1970s sitcom “Good Times” and earned an Emmy nomination for his role in the seminal 1977 miniseries “Roots,” died Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024. He was 84. Amy Sussman/Invision/AP, File James Darren James Darren, a teen idol who helped ignite the 1960s surfing craze as a charismatic beach boy paired off with Sandra Dee in the hit film “Gidget,” died Monday, Sept. 2, 2024. He was 88. AP Photo, File James Earl Jones James Earl Jones, who overcame racial prejudice and a severe stutter to become a celebrated icon of stage and screen has died. He was 93. His agent, Barry McPherson, confirmed Jones died Sept. 9 at home. Jones was a pioneering actor who eventually lent his deep, commanding voice to CNN, “The Lion King” and Darth Vader. Working deep into his 80s, he won two Emmys, a Golden Globe, two Tony Awards, a Grammy, the National Medal of Arts, the Kennedy Center Honors and was given an honorary Oscar and a special Tony for lifetime achievement. In 2022, a Broadway theater was renamed in his honor. Michael Zorn - invision linkable, Michael Zorn/Invision/AP Frankie Beverly Frankie Beverly, who with his band Maze inspired generations of fans with his smooth, soulful voice and lasting anthems including “Before I Let Go,” has died. He was 77. His family said in a post on the band’s website and social media accounts that Beverly died Sept. 10. In the post, which asked for privacy, the family said “he lived his life with a pure soul, as one would say, and for us, no one did it better.” The post did not say his cause of death or where he died. Beverly, whose songs include “Joy and Pain,” “Love is the Key,” and “Southern Girl,” finished his farewell “I Wanna Thank You Tour” in his hometown of Philadelphia in July. Patrick Semansky - freelancer, ASSOCIATED PRESS Joe Schmidt Joe Schmidt, the Hall of Fame linebacker who helped the Detroit Lions win NFL championships in 1953 and 1957 and later coached the team, has died. He was 92. The Lions said family informed the team Schmidt died Sept. 11. A cause of death was not provided. One of pro football’s first great middle linebackers, Schmidt played his entire NFL career with the Lions from 1953-65. An eight-time All-Pro, he was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973 and the college football version in 2000. Born in Pittsburgh, Schmidt played college football in his hometown at Pitt. Jose Juarez, AP File Chad McQueen Chad McQueen, an actor known for his performances in the “Karate Kid” movies and the son of the late actor and racer Steve McQueen, died Sep. 11. His lawyer confirmed his death at age 63. McQueen's family shared a statement on social media saying he lived a life “filled with love and dedication.” McQueen was a professional race car driver, like his father, and competed in the famed 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Daytona races. He is survived by his wife Jeanie and three children, Chase, Madison and Steven, who is an actor best known for “The Vampire Diaries.” Lionel Cironneau - stringer, ASSOCIATED PRESS Tito Jackson Tito Jackson, one of the brothers who made up the beloved pop group the Jackson 5, died at age 70 on Sept. 15. Jackson was the third of nine children, including global superstars Michael and Janet. The Jackson 5 included brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael. They signed with Berry Gordy’s Motown empire in the 1960s. The group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 and produced several No. 1 hits in the 1970s, including “ABC,” “I Want You Back” and “I’ll Be There.” Mark Von Holden, Associated Press JD Souther John David “JD” Souther has died. He was a prolific songwriter and musician whose collaborations with the Eagles and Linda Ronstadt helped shape the country-rock sound that took root in Southern California in the 1970s. Souther joined in on some of the Eagles’ biggest hits, such as “Best of My Love,” “New Kid in Town,” and “Heartache Tonight." The Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee also collaborated with James Taylor, Bob Seger, Bonnie Raitt and many more. His biggest hit as a solo artist was “You’re Only Lonely.” He was about to tour with Karla Bonoff. Souther died Sept. 17 at his home in New Mexico, at 78. In this photo, JD Souther and Alison Krauss attend the Songwriters Hall of Fame 44th annual induction and awards gala on Thursday, June 13, 2013 in New York. Charles Sykes - invision linkable, Charles Sykes/Invision/AP Dan Evans Sen. Dan Evans stands with his three sons, from left, Mark, Bruce and Dan Jr., after he won the election for Washington's senate seat in Seattle, Nov. 8, 1983. Evans, a former Washington state governor and a U.S. Senator, died Sept. 20. The popular Republican was 98. He served as governor from 1965 to 1977, and he was the keynote speaker at the 1968 National Republican Convention. In 1983, Evans was appointed to served out the term of Democratic Sen. Henry “Scoop” Jackson after he died in office. Evans opted not to stand for election in 1988, citing the “tediousness" of the Senate. He later served as a regent at the University of Washington, where the Daniel J. Evans School of Public Policy and Governance bears his name. Barry Sweet - staff, ASSOCIATED PRESS Mercury Morris Eugene “Mercury” Morris, who starred for the unbeaten 1972 Miami Dolphins as part of a star-studded backfield and helped the team win two Super Bowl titles, died Sept. 21. He was 77. The team on Sunday confirmed the death of Morris, a three-time Pro Bowl selection. In a statement, his family said his “talent and passion left an indelible mark on the sport.” Morris was the starting halfback and one of three go-to runners that Dolphins coach Don Shula utilized in Miami’s back-to-back title seasons of 1972 and 1973, alongside Pro Football Hall of Famer Larry Csonka and Jim Kiick. Morris led the Dolphins in rushing touchdowns in both of those seasons. Charles Rex Arbogast, AP File John Ashton John Ashton, the veteran character actor who memorably played the gruff but lovable police detective John Taggart in the “Beverly Hills Cop” films, died Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024. He was 76. Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP, file Maggie Smith Maggie Smith, who won an Oscar for 1969 film “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” and won new fans in the 21st century as the dowager Countess of Grantham in “Downton Abbey” and Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films, died Sept. 27 at 89. Smith's publicist announced the news Friday. She was frequently rated the preeminent British female performer of a generation that included Vanessa Redgrave and Judi Dench. “Jean Brodie” brought her the Academy Award for best actress in 1969. Smith added a supporting actress Oscar for “California Suite” in 1978. Reed Saxon, Associated Press Kris Kristofferson Kris Kristofferson, a Rhodes scholar with a deft writing style and rough charisma who became a country music superstar and an A-list Hollywood actor, died Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024. He was 88. Owen Sweeney/Invision/AP, File Drake Hogestyn Drake Hogestyn, the “Days of Our Lives” star who appeared on the show for 38 years, died Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024. He was 70. AP Photo/Lionel Cironneau, File Ron Ely Ron Ely, the tall, musclebound actor who played the title character in the 1960s NBC series “Tarzan,” died Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024, at age 86. AP Photo/Reed Saxon, File Dikembe Mutombo Dikembe Mutombo, a Basketball Hall of Famer who was one of the best defensive players in NBA history and a longtime global ambassador for the game, died Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, from brain cancer, the league announced. He was 58. AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File Frank Fritz Frank Fritz, left, part of a two-man team who drove around the U.S. looking for antiques and collectibles to buy and resell on the reality show “American Pickers,” died Monday, Sept. 30, 2024. He was 60.He's shown here with co-host Mike Wolfe at the A+E Networks 2015 Upfront in New York on April 30, 2015. Andy Kropa/Invision/AP, File Pete Rose Pete Rose, baseball’s career hits leader and fallen idol who undermined his historic achievements and Hall of Fame dreams by gambling on the game he loved and once embodied, died Monday, Sept. 30, 2024. He was 83. AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File Cissy Houston Cissy Houston, the mother of Whitney Houston and a two-time Grammy winner who performed alongside superstar musicians like Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin, died Monday, Oct. 7, 2024, in her New Jersey home. She was 91. Charles Sykes/Invision/AP, File Ethel Kennedy Ethel Kennedy, the wife of Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, who raised their 11 children after he was assassinated and remained dedicated to social causes and the family’s legacy for decades thereafter, died on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, her family said. She was 96. AP Photo/Henry Burroughs, File Liam Payne Former One Direction singer Liam Payne, 31, whose chart-topping British boy band generated a global following of swooning fans, was found dead Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, local officials said. He was 31. Rich Fury/Invision/AP, File Mitzi Gaynor Mitzi Gaynor, among the last survivors of the so-called golden age of the Hollywood musical, died of natural causes in Los Angeles on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024. She was 93. Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP, File Fernando Valenzuela Fernando Valenzuela, the Mexican-born phenom for the Los Angeles Dodgers who inspired “Fernandomania” while winning the NL Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in 1981, died Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024. He was 63. AP Photo/Abbie Parr, File Jack Jones Jack Jones, a Grammy-winning crooner known for “The Love Boat” television show theme song, died, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024. He was 86. AP Photo/Reed Saxon, File Phil Lesh Phil Lesh, a founding member of the Grateful Dead, died Friday, Oct. 25, 2024, at age 84. AP Photo/Morry Gash, File Teri Garr Teri Garr, the quirky comedy actor who rose from background dancer in Elvis Presley movies to co-star of such favorites as "Young Frankenstein" and "Tootsie," died Tuesday, Oct 29, 2024. She was 79. AP Photo/Mark Terrill, File Quincy Jones Quincy Jones, the multitalented music titan whose vast legacy ranged from producing Michael Jackson’s historic “Thriller” album to writing prize-winning film and television scores and collaborating with Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles and hundreds of other recording artists, died Sunday, Nov 3, 2024. He was 91 Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP, File Bobby Allison Bobby Allison, founder of racing’s “Alabama Gang” and a NASCAR Hall of Famer, died Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024. He was 86. AP Photo/File Song Jae-lim Song Jae-lim, a South Korean actor known for his roles in K-dramas “Moon Embracing the Sun” and “Queen Woo,” was found dead at his home in capital Seoul, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024. He was 39. Jo Soo-jung/Newsis via AP Timothy West British actor Timothy West, who played the classic Shakespeare roles of King Lear and Macbeth and who in recent years along with his wife, Prunella Scales, enchanted millions of people with their boating exploits on Britain's waterways, died Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024. He was 90. Gareth Fuller/PA via AP Bela Karolyi Bela Karolyi, the charismatic if polarizing gymnastics coach who turned young women into champions and the United States into an international power in the sport, died Friday, Nov. 15, 2024. He was 82. AP Photo/Susan Ragan, File Arthur Frommer Arthur Frommer, whose "Europe on 5 Dollars a Day" guidebooks revolutionized leisure travel by convincing average Americans to take budget vacations abroad, died Monday, Nov. 18, 2024. He was 95. AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File) Bob Love Former Chicago Bulls forward Bob Love, a three-time All-Star who spent 11 years in the NBA, died Monday, Nov. 18, 2024. He was 81. AP Photo/Fred Jewell, File Chuck Woolery Chuck Woolery, the affable, smooth-talking game show host of “Wheel of Fortune,” “Love Connection” and “Scrabble” who later became a right-wing podcaster, skewering liberals and accusing the government of lying about COVID-19, died Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024. He was 83. Ronda Churchill/Las Vegas Review-Journal via AP, File Barbara Taylor Bradford Barbara Taylor Bradford, a British journalist who became a publishing sensation in her 40s with the saga "A Woman of Substance" and wrote more than a dozen other novels that sold tens of millions of copies, died Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024. She was 91. Caroll Taveras/Bradford Enterprises via AP Stay up-to-date on what's happeningRepublicans Lash Out at Democrats' Claims That Trump Intelligence Pick Gabbard 'Compromised'LOS ANGELES (AP) — Kendrick Lamar gave music listeners an early holiday present Friday with the surprise drop of a new album. The Grammy winner's 12-track "GNX" is his first release since 2022's "Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers" and his sixth studio album overall. It also comes just months after his rap battle with Drake. Lamar first teased the album with a cover art and video snippet of "GNX," which features multi-instrumentalist Jack Antonoff as a co-producer on every track except for "Peekaboo." Other notable producers include Sounwave and DJ Mustard, who both contributed production on the hit "Not Like Us," the ubiquitous diss track emanating from the Drake feud. Lamar's former Top Dawg Entertainment labelmate SZA appears on a couple songs including "Gloria" and "Luther," which also features sampled vocals from Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn through "If This World Were Mine." On the opening track "Wacced Out Murals," Lamar raps about cruising in his Buick GNX (Grand National Experimental) car with listening to Anita Baker. He brings up Snoop Dogg posting Drake's AI-assisted "Taylor Made Freestyle" diss track on social media and Nas congratulating Lamar for being selected to headline February's Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show in New Orleans. Lamar also shows admiration for Lil Wayne, who expressed his hurt feelings after being passed over as the headliner in his hometown. Lamar, 37, has experienced massive success since his debut album "good kid, m.A.A.d city" in 2012. Since then, he's accumulated 17 Grammy wins and became the first non-classical, non-jazz musician to win a Pulitzer Prize for his 2017 album "DAMN." The surprise release caps a big year for Lamar, who was featured on the song "Like That" with Future and Metro Boomin — a track that spent three weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 this year. Lamar is up for seven Grammys, fueled by "Not Like Us," which earned nods for record and song of the year, rap song, music video as well as best rap performance. He has two simultaneous entries in the latter category, a career first: "Like That" is up for best rap performance and best rap song, too. "GNX" track list 1. "Wacced Out Murals" 2. "Squabble Up" 3. "Luther" (feat. SZA) 4. "Man at the Garden" 5. "Hey Now" 6. "Reincarnated" 7. "TV Off" 8. "Dodger Blue" 9. "Peekaboo" 10. "Heart Pt. 6" 11. "GNX" 12. "Gloria" (feat. SZA)

Xavier aims to rebound from a tough week and get one more critical tune-up for a rivalry matchup when it hosts Morgan State on Tuesday night in Cincinnati. The Musketeers (7-2) were ranked No. 22 in the AP poll two weeks ago but fell out after a 25-point loss to Michigan in the Fort Myers Tip-Off tournament final on Nov. 27. Xavier then barely escaped with a 71-68 home win over South Carolina State on Dec. 1 before losing 76-72 at TCU on Thursday. Dante Maddox Jr. came off the bench to score nine points in 20 minutes on three 3-pointers against the Horned Frogs. He also grabbed six rebounds before fouling out. The Musketeers have been waiting for the Toledo transfer to add a punch to an underwhelming bench cast that many thought would be a strength for Xavier coming into the season. "I really feel like you can almost be baited into a false sense of how deep your team is because you're around guys every day and have a good, older group, which we do," Musketeers coach Sean Miller said. "You see the good in a lot of different guys. It's not until you get 8 to 10, 10 to 15 games in when you truly understand how deep your team is." Maddox hit a 3-pointer and started a fastbreak with a steal that gave Xavier a 60-54 lead with 7:28 remaining, but the Musketeers faded down the stretch and lost for the second time in three games. Maddox is averaging 4.7 points per game, while Ryan Conwell leads the team with 16.6. Tuesday's game will be the last chance for Xavier to straighten up before visiting No. 22 Cincinnati on Saturday for the teams' annual intense crosstown showdown. Morgan State (5-7) is coming off a 102-81 road loss at Bowling Green on Saturday. Preseason All-MEAC First Team selection Will Thomas led the Bears with 19 points on 8-of-15 shooting from the field, while Kameron Hobbs scored 12 points off the bench. Amahrie Simpkins made all five of his field-goal attempts to add 11 points and Wynston Tabbs had 10 points, six rebounds and six assists. Tabbs leads Morgan State in scoring this season at 16.8 points per game, while Simpkins (12.8) and Thomas (12.2) round out the Bears' double-digit scorers. The Bears have struggled away from home, losing all five road contests this season. --Field Level Media

Tottenham once again embodied the infamous ‘Spursy’ label, collapsing from a pole position to suffer a 4-3 defeat against Chelsea . The Blues, led by the ice-cold Cole Palmer, ran riot as the young forward bagged two crucial penalties. Aside from Dejan Kulusevski and Son Heung-Min, there were no standout performers for the Lilywhites on the night to forget. The surprise of the day was the unexpected inclusion of Cristian Romero in the starting XI. Given his recent fitness issues , few anticipated the Argentine would be ready for the London derby, and he was joined by Micky van de Ven, who also returned ahead of schedule . Despite their return, Spurs’ defensive collapse were on full display, leaving Ange Postecoglou with more questions than answers. Cristian Romero’s return was short-lived, lasting just 15 minutes before he was forced off with an apparent injury. Radu Dragusin came on as his replacement. Jamie Carragher later pointed out what he believed to be the “ridiculous” manner in which Romero sustained the injury. Jamie Carragher Slams Cristian Romero for Reckless Backheel Error Moments after Tottenham took a 1-0 lead through Dominic Solanke, Romero made a puzzling decision by attempting a backheeled pass to Kulusevski inside his own box, rather than clearing it under pressure from multiple Chelsea players. Kulusevski, seemingly caught off guard, took a moment to react but eventually gained control and helped Tottenham push forward. It was undoubtedly a reckless moment from Romero, as he was fortunate that Kulusevski reacted quicker than any Chelsea player. Carragher was far from impressed with the defender’s decision. The Liverpool legend was absolutely furious when this happened, as on the live commentary for Skysports , stated Absolutely ridiculous. In a big game you need points from, and he’s hurt himself doing it (too).” Having spent nearly four years at Tottenham , Romero is expected to have outgrown such decisions by now. At 26, moments like his careless backheel against Chelsea should be behind him. While he escaped punishment this time, Postecoglou will undoubtedly want these risky antics to be gone from his game. This article first appeared on To The Lane And Back and was syndicated with permission.

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