NoneEAST LANSING, Mich. — The sight was a common one for Andrew Kolpacki. For many a Sunday, he would watch NFL games on TV and see quarterbacks putting their hands on their helmets, desperately trying to hear the play call from the sideline or booth as tens of thousands of fans screamed at the tops of their lungs. When the NCAA's playing rules oversight committee this past spring approved the use of coach-to-player helmet communications in games for the 2024 season, Kolpacki, Michigan State's head football equipment manager, knew the Spartans' QBs and linebackers were going to have a problem. "There had to be some sort of solution," he said. As it turns out, there was. And it was right across the street. Kolpacki reached out to Tamara Reid Bush, a mechanical engineering professor who not only heads the school's Biomechanical Design Research Laboratory but also is a football season ticket-holder. Kolpacki "showed me some photos and said that other teams had just put duct tape inside the (earhole), and he asked me, 'Do you think we can do anything better than duct tape,?" Bush said. "And I said, 'Oh, absolutely.'" Bush and Rylie DuBois, a sophomore biosystems engineering major and undergraduate research assistant at the lab, set out to produce earhole inserts made from polylactic acid, a bio-based plastic, using a 3D printer. Part of the challenge was accounting for the earhole sizes and shapes that vary depending on helmet style. Once the season got underway with a Friday night home game against Florida Atlantic on Aug. 30, the helmets of starting quarterback Aidan Chiles and linebacker Jordan Turner were outfitted with the inserts, which helped mitigate crowd noise. DuBois attended the game, sitting in the student section. "I felt such a strong sense of accomplishment and pride," DuBois said. "And I told all my friends around me about how I designed what they were wearing on the field." All told, Bush and DuBois have produced around 180 sets of the inserts, a number that grew in part due to the variety of helmet designs and colors that are available to be worn by Spartan players any given Saturday. Plus, the engineering folks have been fine-tuning their design throughout the season. Dozens of Bowl Subdivision programs are doing something similar. In many cases, they're getting 3D-printed earhole covers from XO Armor Technologies, which provides on-site, on-demand 3D printing of athletic wearables. The Auburn, Alabama-based company has donated its version of the earhole covers to the equipment managers of programs ranging from Georgia and Clemson to Boise State and Arizona State in the hope the schools would consider doing business with XO Armor in the future, said Jeff Klosterman, vice president of business development. XO Armor first was approached by the Houston Texans at the end of last season about creating something to assist quarterback C.J. Stroud in better hearing play calls delivered to his helmet during road games. XO Armor worked on a solution and had completed one when it received another inquiry: Ohio State, which had heard Michigan State was moving forward with helmet inserts, wondered if XO Armor had anything in the works. "We kind of just did this as a one-off favor to the Texans and honestly didn't forecast it becoming our viral moment in college football," Klosterman said. "We've now got about 60 teams across college football and the NFL wearing our sound-deadening earhole covers every weekend." The rules state that only one player for each team is permitted to be in communication with coaches while on the field. For the Spartans, it's typically Chiles on offense and Turner on defense. Turner prefers to have an insert in both earholes, but Chiles has asked that the insert be used in only one on his helmet. Chiles "likes to be able to feel like he has some sort of outward exposure," Kolpacki said. Exposure is something the sophomore signal-caller from Long Beach, California, had in away games against Michigan and Oregon this season. Michigan Stadium welcomed 110,000-plus fans for the Oct. 26 matchup between the in-state rivals. And while just under 60,000 packed Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon, for the Ducks' 31-10 win over Michigan State three weeks earlier, it was plenty loud. "The Big Ten has some pretty impressive venues," Kolpacki said. "It can be just deafening," he said. "That's what those fans are there for is to create havoc and make it difficult for coaches to get a play call off." Something that is a bit easier to handle thanks to Bush and her team. She called the inserts a "win-win-win" for everyone. "It's exciting for me to work with athletics and the football team," she said. "I think it's really exciting for our students as well to take what they've learned and develop and design something and see it being used and executed." Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Card shortages, uncertainty ahead of MyWay+ launchSustainable Sanitation Innovation: Vacuum Toilet Systems Market Poised for Significant Growth by 2030
Scott Bessent: The Finance Maven Set to Navigate U.S. TreasuryMolly-Mae Hague makes savage four-word comment about I'm A Celebrity as Maura Higgins enters campDan Kitwood/Getty Images News In September, we said that Google’s ( NASDAQ: GOOGL )( NASDAQ: GOOG ) downside is more significant than ever. Although its shares have slightly risen in value since that time thanks to the release of a positive earnings Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
Unsurprisingly, three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Joey Logano was effusive of the current playoff format when asked to chime in on the ongoing discussion of a potential tweak. “Everyone is going to have opinions on that,” Logano said last Friday ahead of the 2024 NASCAR Awards in Charlotte “I think we all need to understand why we changed it in the first place. "The fans said they didn’t like [the previous format]. We changed it. Everybody loved it and it was great. Now we’re going to complain about it again. Come on, guys. Jeez.” Toni Breidinger makes decision on NASCAR future by agreeing 2025 move NASCAR fans spot curious detail in new F1 team announcement Logano claimed the crown this season but was far from the most dominant driver over the course of the campaign. While his four victories were the second most behind Kyle Larson , he finished just just seven top-five finishes. 10 drivers had more Logano, including Larson (who finished with 15). The three-time Cup Series winner did pull off a series of timely victories. He was victorious in the first race of the playoffs to clinch his spot in the next round and effectively nullify any seeding disadvantage he had entering the Round of 16. He advanced to the Round of 8 by the skin of his teeth thanks to a key Alex Bowman disqualification and then showed out when it mattered most in the last two rounds of the playoffs. But while Logano understandably is in favor of the format, his fellow drivers are all advocating for changes, even if they like some aspects of the current system. "I love that aspect of it," fifth-place finisher Christopher Bell said of playoff races mattering more. "[However,] maybe adjusting the points systems to make sure we get the right cars into the championship event would be awesome." Martin Truex Jr admitted the best team over the season rarely wins the championship. “That’s correct. I think that’s what they look at," he said. DON'T MISS: Christopher Bell shares desire to copy NASCAR rival Kyle Larson's bold plan NASCAR legend Greg Biffle goes public with Daytona 500 comeback plea Dale Earnhardt Jr. gives NASCAR fans news they wanted after Budweiser return "Now, the only thing I will say is [in] baseball, football, basketball. they all play on the same court every week. They’re playing the same game. Racing is different. Veteran Brad Keselowski mentioned another key factor in NASCAR's decision to continue with the playoff format as is" “I think we have media partners who really, really think the playoffs are great and it’s important to make them happy,” Keselowski said. “And there’s some sentiment from fans about it as well that is important to recognize. So it’s a difficult situation.” Unsurprisingly, Denny Hamlin agreed with most of his fellow drivers:“I think the message we are trying to send is: Make the regular season matter more," he admitted.Former President Olusegun Obasanjo is dead? Fact emerges
Trump Orbiter and White Nationalist Influencer Nick Fuentes Charged with Battery(NAPSI)—The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year, but when the average American is spending nearly $1,000 on gifts, food, and decorations, they can also be the most stressful. For many, the pressure to create a picture-perfect holiday can stretch budgets a bit too far. Many of today’s shoppers seek advice from their favorite online influencers, sourcing creative hacks, recipes, DIY projects, and tips to keep the holidays magical without overspending. In fact, 69% of consumers say they value and actively seek out influencer recommendations. Now, questions don’t need to get buried in the comments. This December, TextNow is flipping the script on holiday stress by introducing the Holiday Hotline , a free resource to help you navigate the season, with advice a mere text away. Whether it’s finding affordable gifts, creating a festive dinner on a budget, or even learning how to save on your monthly bills, the Holiday Hotline can make things simpler, cheaper, and—perhaps most importantly—more joyful. TextNow Holiday Hotline: Expert Advice at Your Fingertips From December 5–10, TextNow’s Holiday Hotline connects you with relatable experts (aka some of your favorite influencers including social media creator and podcast host Remi Cruz, Kayla Savings, and Melissa Weiss) who will share their go-to tips for a budget-friendly holiday. Here’s what you can expect: • Holiday Budgeting 101: Learn simple ways to stretch every dollar and avoid those dreaded post-holiday bills. • Affordable Gift-Giving Ideas: Thoughtful, creative gifts that won’t break the bank. • Festive Decorating on a Dime: Transform your home into a holiday wonderland with budget-friendly hacks. • Stress-Free Holiday Cooking: Recipes and meal-planning tips to impress your guests. Need more advice? Just text the hotline at 310-299-3584, and you’ll get personalized, practical tips sent straight to your phone. Win $1,000 for Your Holiday Dinner As if free expert advice wasn’t enough, TextNow is also giving you the chance to win big this holiday season. Enter the $1,000 Dinner Giveaway for a shot at a $1,000 gift card to cover your holiday expenses—whether it’s for food, gifts, travel, or whatever else makes your season special. Entering is simple: 1.Head to TextNow’s Instagram . 2.Like the giveaway post. 3.Share your best holiday tip in the comments (bonus: share the post to your story for an extra entry). 4.The giveaway runs from December 5-12, with winners announced from December 13-16. Save More This Holiday Season TextNow is more than just a phone service—it’s a way to take control of your budget, not just during the holidays but year-round. • Free Phone Service: Unlimited calling and texting on the nation’s largest 5G network free. No gimmicks, no contracts. • Free Essential Data: Get free data for such essential apps as maps, rideshare, and email when you activate your SIM card. • Additional Flexible Data Plans: Add extra data only when you need it, with hourly, daily, or monthly passes. Getting started with TextNow is easy. Download the app to call and text for free over Wi-Fi or unlock free cellular service with a $4.99 SIM card. Learn More For more details, visit www.TextNow.com . Word Count: 491 Best trending stories from the week. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. You may occasionally receive promotions exclusive discounted subscription offers from the Roswell Daily Record. Feel free to cancel any time via the unsubscribe link in the newsletter you received. You can also control your newsletter options via your user dashboard by signing in.
'Dream hire' receives UNK faculty award
Those nations can never face ruin that steadfastly adhere to the rope of Allah and remain united, avoiding divisions among themselves. This divine guidance found its most eloquent reflection recently in a remarkable and dignified building nestled in the serene hills of Margalla—the National Assembly of Pakistan. Within its grand chambers, a historic gathering unfolded under the guidance of the Speaker National Assembly, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq. Demonstrating his unwavering commitment to family, parliamentary, and moral traditions, he united political leaders across the nation to forge a shared vision for Pakistan’s future. For three days, from December 18 to December 20, speakers from Pakistan’s National and Provincial Assemblies, the Legislative Assemblies of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) set aside their political differences to deliberate on a collective roadmap. This unprecedented gathering was characterised by an atmosphere of mutual respect and an unyielding resolve to uphold democratic values. The discussions spanned a wide array of critical topics, including democracy, tolerance, human rights, and adherence to the Constitution of Pakistan. These meaningful exchanges culminated in the adoption of the Islamabad Declaration, a landmark document encapsulating their shared commitment and vision. The Islamabad Declaration reflects an unwavering resolve to uphold the Constitution of Pakistan as the supreme law of the land. It emphasises the importance of ensuring its effective implementation across all tiers of governance. The declaration outlines a commitment to accountability and transparency in legislative work, recognising these as essential pillars for rebuilding public trust in democratic institutions. The participants reaffirmed their dedication to safeguarding parliamentary supremacy and addressing the pressing needs of the people through meaningful, issue-based interventions. Central to the declaration is a renewed commitment to the principles of parliamentary democracy. It reiterates the time-honored dictum: "The Treasury may have its way, but the Opposition must have its say," emphasising the need for constructive dialogue and mutual respect within legislative processes. By fostering a culture of civility, the declaration aims to counteract the divisive impact of populism, fake news, and social media slander, which have increasingly infiltrated political discourse and undermined the values of decency and respect. Loss And Damage Fund Achieves Key Milestone, Prepares To Support Climate Victims The Islamabad Declaration also recognises the pressing challenges of climate change, socio-economic inequality, and the evolving technological needs of the nation. It calls for comprehensive legislative and policy measures to address these issues, with a particular focus on sustainable development. The participants underscored the need for federal and provincial legislatures to collaborate effectively, promoting national cohesion and fostering solutions to shared challenges. Parliamentary diplomacy emerged as a recurring theme throughout the discussions. The declaration highlights the critical role of diplomacy in advancing regional and international cooperation. It underscores the importance of fostering peace and connectivity as prerequisites for sustainable development. Additionally, it calls for the peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolutions and demands an end to atrocities in Gaza, urging the international community to uphold justice and provide humanitarian assistance to the oppressed. One of the most significant aspects of the declaration is its forward-looking vision for institutional reform. It advocates for the modernisation of parliamentary operations through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and transparency. Recognising the importance of financial accountability, the declaration proposes the establishment of the Association of Public Accounts Committees to strengthen oversight mechanisms across all legislatures. This landmark gathering serves as a powerful reminder that unity, dialogue, and adherence to constitutional principles are the bedrock of a strong and progressive nation The declaration also emphasises the empowerment of youth and women, recognising them as vital agents of change. It addresses pressing child-related issues, including polio, malnutrition, child labor, and child beggary, and calls for coordinated legislative and policy initiatives to address these challenges. The participants resolved to foster collaboration between parliamentary forums dedicated to women, children, youth, and sustainable development goals, creating synergies to achieve shared objectives. Beyond The Declaration: The Unfinished Journey Of Human Rights A unique feature of the Islamabad Declaration is its emphasis on inter-legislature knowledge-sharing. The participants highlighted the need for capacity-building initiatives and resource-sharing to strengthen institutional performance across all legislatures. They pledged to adopt evidence-based legislative practices and conduct social audits of laws to ensure their effectiveness and relevance in addressing emerging challenges. The declaration also recognises the vital role of academia, media, civil society, and think tanks in shaping legislative processes. By engaging with these stakeholders, the legislatures aim to create a more inclusive and participatory governance framework. The transformation of the Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services into a center of excellence for legislative research and capacity-building is a key step in this direction. This initiative seeks to equip legislators with the knowledge and tools needed to address complex policy issues effectively. The conference concluded with a spirit of unity and mutual respect, as participants resolved to uphold democratic values and constitutional principles. The Azad Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly graciously offered to host the next Speakers’ Conference in 2025, underscoring the continuity of this collaborative effort. The Islamabad Declaration, adopted on December 20, 2024, stands as a testament to the collective resolve of Pakistan’s legislative leaders to foster cooperation, innovation, and inclusivity. This landmark gathering serves as a powerful reminder that unity, dialogue, and adherence to constitutional principles are the bedrock of a strong and progressive nation. By prioritising the needs of the people and addressing critical challenges, the participants have set a precedent for future collaborations. Their efforts have not only reinforced the foundations of parliamentary democracy but have also sent a resounding message of hope and resilience to the people of Pakistan and the international community. Constitutional Amendment: Power Consolidation Or Democratic Collapse? The Islamabad Declaration is more than just a document; it is a beacon of hope and a roadmap for progress. It embodies the shared aspirations of a nation striving to overcome its challenges and build a brighter future. Through their unity and determination, the custodians of Pakistan’s legislatures have demonstrated that when political differences are set aside, and collective wisdom prevails, the possibilities for growth and development are boundless. This spirit of collaboration and mutual respect will undoubtedly continue to guide Pakistan on its journey toward becoming a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous society.Reviving the book cultureAnna is a freelance writer with far too much time on her hands. When she’s not writing about memes and internet slang, she can be found running TTRPGs online.
PRAGUE, Czech Republic (AP) — When the referee whistled for the free kick just outside the area, Atletico Madrid forward Julián Álvarez quickly picked up the ball and moved in position to take the shot. “When I saw the free kick, I told Rodri (Rodrigo De Paul) that I felt confident with the shot,” Álvarez said. “And it was a great goal.” Álvarez, Atletico's main signing in the offseason , has not been lacking confidence lately. The Argentina forward curled in the free kick shot in the 15th minute for the first of his two goals in the team’s 6-0 rout of Brest in the Champions League on Tuesday — the team’s biggest ever away win in European competitions. “We'll keep rotating who takes the free kicks,” said Álvarez, who also found the net in the 59th. It was Álvarez’s seventh goal in the last 10 matches, and third in his last three games across all competitions. The 24-year-old had a slow start to his first season with Atletico, scoring twice in 10 matches. “It was a matter of time before we started connecting well with each other,” said Álvarez, who joined Atletico after two seasons at Manchester City. “We have to stay on this path to keep improving.” Ángel Correa also scored two goals for Atletico, with Marcos Llorente and Antoine Griezmann adding one each. “We know that in this format of the competition we need to keep adding the three points and scoring goals," Álvarez said. "It's important to get the points and the goals.” Atletico was sitting in 13th place in the 36-team league standings. AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
None
Work-life balance isn’t working for women. Why?Streamlined nationwide access to digital bonuses, MGM Rewards Points, Marriott Bonvoy Points, and more JERSEY CITY, N.J. , Nov. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- BetMGM, a leading iGaming and sports betting operator, today announced a major enhancement to its customer experience by consolidating BetMGM Reward Points (BRPs) into a single account. In addition to users' cash balance, this feature enables BetMGM Rewards Points to travel with them across jurisdictions. Click here to download creative assets Streamlining BetMGM Rewards Points into a single account is the next phase of BetMGM's single, digital wallet. With single account, users have one set of login credentials and account settings, along with a single cash balance accessible in all states where BetMGM is available. In August, BetMGM became the first sports betting app to offer Nevada bettors seamless, nationwide connectivity through a single, digital wallet. Through operation and partnership with MGM Resorts, this innovative feature makes BetMGM the only legalized sports betting app that allows Nevada residents and visitors to wager in the state and carry their funds to BetMGM mobile markets across the United States. "We are committed to streamlining the loyalty experience for our players so they can enjoy the rewards they earn wherever they are in the U.S.," said Adam Greenblatt , BetMGM CEO. "The BetMGM Rewards Program showcases our key differentiators -- omnichannel play, the iconic hospitality and MGM Resorts International's entertainment, and partnerships including our alliance with Marriott Bonvoy. With every bet at the sportsbook and spin of the slot you are earning rewards that can be used online or in-person." Players can earn BetMGM Rewards Points and Tier Credits by playing at BetMGM Sportsbook, BetMGM Casino and BetMGM Poker. Highlights of the streamlined BetMGM Rewards include: BetMGM Rewards Points now travel with you in all single account markets ( Puerto Rico and Ontario not included). When a player creates an account in a new location, their BRP balance consolidates into one balance. Players can earn BetMGM Rewards Points and Tier Credits by playing at BetMGM Sportsbook, BetMGM Casino and BetMGM Poker. Players can redeem BetMGM Rewards Points earned through play in the Rewards Store and use them for odds boosts and Gametime credits. BRPs can also be redeemed at MGM Resorts International destinations, exchanged for Marriott Bonvoy Points, and more. BetMGM currently operates in 29 markets across North America including AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MS, NV, NJ, NM, NY, NC, OH, OR, PA, SD, TN, VA, DC, WA, WV, WY as well as Ontario, Canada and Puerto Rico . As BetMGM continues to expand to new markets and introduces new features, responsible gaming education remains a key focus. BetMGM is proud to provide resources to help customers play responsibly including GameSense, an industry-leading program, developed and licensed to MGM Resorts by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation. Through the integration within BetMGM's mobile and desktop platforms, customers can receive the same GameSense experience they have grown to rely on at MGM Resorts properties nationwide. This complements BetMGM's already existing responsible gaming tools which serve to provide customers with an entertaining and safe digital experience. The BetMGM app is available for download on both iOS and Android and is accessible via desktop at http://www.betmgm.com. For more information and to explore our new features, follow @BetMGM on X or visit www.betmgm.com . Disclaimer Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US), Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA). 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). Subject to eligibility requirements. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. See BetMGM.com for Terms. US promotional offers not available in DC, Mississippi , New York , Nevada , Ontario , or Puerto Rico . About BetMGM BetMGM is a market-leading sports betting and gaming entertainment company, pioneering the online gaming industry. Born out of a partnership between MGM Resorts International MGM and Entain Plc ENT , BetMGM has exclusive access to all of MGM's U.S. land-based and online sports betting , major tournament poker, and online gaming businesses. Utilizing Entain's U.S.-licensed, state-of-the-art technology, BetMGM offers sports betting and online gaming via market-leading brands including BetMGM, Borgata Casino , Party Casino and Party Poker. Founded in 2018, BetMGM is headquartered in New Jersey . For more information, visit https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/ . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/betmgm-rewards-points-now-combined-into-single-digital-wallet-302315621.html SOURCE BetMGM © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Courtney Frazer | (TNS) Bankrate.com Exchanging currency is vital to international travel, whether you’re visiting for leisure or business. Understanding the nuances of currency exchange can help you avoid costly mistakes and make the most of your travel budget. Before you exchange money, you should know how to choose the right place to exchange your money, time your transactions for the best rates and estimate the money exchange fee. Currency exchange involves converting one country’s money into another’s. Because currencies have different values from country to country, exchange rates fluctuate based on factors like political stability, economic performance and global market conditions. Without proper knowledge of currency exchange, travelers risk losing money on unfavorable exchange rates, excessive fees and even fraudulent practices. It’s important to know how currency exchange works and where to do money exchanges so you can get the best deal. Exchanging money abroad often comes with various fees, so it’s important to understand what you might encounter. Flat fees Some exchange providers charge a flat fee per transaction. These can make smaller exchanges expensive relative to the amount you’re converting. Always ask about any flat fees in advance, and consider exchanging larger sums to minimize the impact of this fee. Percentage fees Many currency exchange providers charge a percentage-based fee on the total amount exchanged. This fee structure can become costly if you’re exchanging large amounts of money, so compare percentage-based fees before making any decisions. ATM withdrawal fees If you’re withdrawing money from an ATM abroad, your home bank and the foreign bank may charge withdrawal fees. Some banks refund these fees, while others may partner with international banks to provide fee-free withdrawals. Before traveling, check with your bank to understand what ATM fees you might face and whether they offer any reimbursement options. Foreign transaction fees Foreign transaction fees are often charged when using credit or debit cards abroad. Depending on the card issuer and payment network, these fees can range from 1% to 3% of the transaction amount. Many travel-focused credit cards offer no foreign transaction fees, which can help you save money when making purchases abroad. Check your card’s terms and conditions before you travel to avoid surprises. If your card charges foreign transaction fees, consider limiting its use and opting for other methods, like cash or prepaid travel cards. Not all currency exchange options are equal, especially for travelers. Some places offer better rates and lower money exchange fees, while others provide more convenience. Here’s a breakdown of the most common currency exchange options. Banks and credit unions Banks and credit unions are generally the best money exchange options, offering competitive exchange rates and transparent fees. Many banks provide foreign currency services for their account holders, and some even offer currency at a better rate when you order it in advance. If you have a major bank account, the bank may offer international ATM withdrawals with little to no fees. Banks tend to have the most secure exchange process, so you can avoid the high fees and markups that are common at airport exchange booths. Currency exchange kiosks Currency exchange kiosks, often found at airports and tourist destinations, are convenient but have significant drawbacks. They frequently offer lower exchange rates and higher fees, taking advantage of travelers who need quick cash. If you need to use a currency exchange bureau, only exchange a small amount to cover immediate needs and seek out better rates at a local bank or through an ATM once you reach your destination. Always check the exchange rate and fees before completing any transaction at these kiosks to avoid unnecessary charges. ATMs abroad Using ATMs to withdraw local currency in your destination country is one of the most convenient ways to get cash while traveling. Many banks are part of global ATM networks, allowing you to withdraw money with minimal fees if you use ATMs associated with their partner banks. However, it’s important to check with your bank ahead of time to understand what fees may apply to international withdrawals. When using ATMs abroad, stick to machines from reputable banks and avoid independent ATMs found in tourist-heavy areas or small shops. These often have higher fees and less favorable exchange rates. It’s also a good idea to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid having your card frozen for suspicious activity. Prepaid travel cards Prepaid travel cards offer an excellent solution for travelers who want to manage currency exchange with ease. These cards allow you to load multiple currencies before you travel and lock in exchange rates to avoid rate fluctuations while abroad. Prepaid travel cards can be used like regular debit or credit cards but with the added benefit of lower foreign transaction fees. They also help limit spending, as you can only use the funds preloaded onto the card. However, be aware of hidden fees such as inactivity, ATM withdrawal or reloading fees. When exchanging currency for travel, it’s easy to fall into traps that result in unnecessary expenses. Here are some common mistakes travelers make and how to avoid them. 1. Exchanging money at airports and hotels While airports and hotels may be convenient places to exchange money, they often have the worst exchange rates and highest fees. Airport kiosks, in particular, are notorious for inflating rates, sometimes marking them up by as much as 10% compared to what you’d find at a local bank or ATM. To avoid these high costs, exchange a small amount of money before your trip to cover immediate expenses like transportation. Once you arrive at your destination, use ATMs or banks for more favorable rates. 2. Using dynamic currency conversion Dynamic currency conversion (DCC) allows you to pay in your home currency when using a credit or debit card abroad. While this may seem convenient, it usually comes with a much worse exchange rate and additional hidden fees. Whenever possible, always opt to pay in the local currency of your destination to avoid unfavorable rates. DCC also gives merchants more control over the exchange rate, meaning they could use a rate that benefits them more than you. When paying with a card abroad, always make sure you’re being charged in the local currency to get the most accurate rate. 3. Timing your exchange poorly Exchange rates fluctuate daily based on global market conditions. If you know you’ll need to exchange a large sum of money, it pays to keep an eye on exchange rates before your trip. Use tools to track exchange rates and exchange your money when the rate is in your favor. For travelers planning ahead, some banks and online services allow you to lock in exchange rates before traveling, helping you avoid losses due to unfavorable fluctuations during your trip. When traveling abroad, currency exchange fees can quickly eat into your budget. You can use certain strategies to help you save, avoid common fees and make the most of your money while exploring new destinations. 1. Plan ahead for international trips Before heading overseas, research your destination’s currency and exchange rate options. Many banks allow you to order foreign currency ahead of time, saving you from the poor exchange rates and high fees at airports or in tourist-heavy areas. If your bank offers international ATM withdrawal with low fees, consider using this option to access local currency while traveling. Financial institutions sometimes offer special travel accounts or debit cards with reduced fees for foreign transactions. Check with your bank to see if they offer international-friendly options that can help you save money while abroad. 2. Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees Credit cards that offer no foreign transaction fees can be a great asset when traveling internationally. These cards often offer competitive exchange rates, and some even provide travel rewards or cash back on purchases made abroad. Using a credit card for most of your international purchases can help protect you from currency exchange fees and fraud. 3. Limit currency exchange at high-fee locations When traveling, try to avoid exchanging currency at locations that charge high fees, like airports, hotels or currency exchange kiosks. These places often inflate exchange rates and charge large commissions, reducing the value of your money. Instead, stick to local banks or ATMs for better rates and lower fees. If you have to exchange currency at one of these places, try to exchange only what you need immediately and find a better location later. Currency exchange is an essential part of international travel, and getting it right can save you a lot of money. By planning ahead, avoiding high-fee locations and choosing the right method for exchanging money, you can stretch your travel budget further and minimize unnecessary costs. When traveling internationally, avoid airport kiosks and hotel exchange desks, opt for ATMs and reputable banks and consider using prepaid travel cards or credit cards with no foreign transaction fees to simplify your currency management. With a little preparation, you’ll be able to get the most out of your money while exploring the world. (Visit Bankrate online at bankrate.com.). ©2024 Bankrate.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.The next LTS Linux kernel is no surprise but it is packed with goodies
BOSTON (AP) — Pjay Smith Jr. had 25 points in Furman's 77-63 win over Harvard on Saturday. Smith added seven rebounds and five assists for the Paladins (12-1). Nick Anderson shot 5 of 13 from the field, including 2 for 8 from 3-point range, and went 4 for 5 from the line to add 16 points. Garrett Hien had 10 points and went 5 of 9 from the field. Chandler Pigge led the Crimson (3-8) in scoring, finishing with 16 points, nine rebounds and three steals. Thomas Batties II added 14 points and six rebounds for Harvard. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .Judge unlikely to embrace US government’s push to require Chrome divestiture, experts say