Month: February 2024

Average Tax Refund 29% Lower According to IRS

The IRS reports a 29% decrease in the average tax refund this year, causing concern for taxpayers. Enbridge Inc. experiences a stock decline amidst a broader market downturn. Investors are advised to stay informed and consider the implications of these developments on their portfolios.

Dick Portillo Lists Naples Penthouse for $32.5 Million

Dick Portillo, the king of Chicago hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches, has listed his remodeled Naples penthouse for $32.5 million. The 12,000 square foot condo offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and features amenities such as guest suites, a sauna, and exercise room. Portillo, a self-made billionaire, remains a real estate player in Chicagoland, with his recent involvement in the Naples listing coming just after another luxury property owned by the family of late financier John Donahue went up for sale at a record price of $295 million.

Bud Light’s Bold Move: Super Bowl Ad with Post Malone and Peyton Manning

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA is reshaping public perception of Bud Light with a new Super Bowl ad featuring Post Malone, Peyton Manning, and Dana White. The ad introduces the Bud Light Genie and aims to dispel controversy from a previous partnership. Investors are looking to the potential impact of Donald Trump’s support for Bud Light, while the brand’s future success hinges on appealing to a more youthful audience. AB InBev’s strategy includes upgrading Bud Light, strengthening the brand, and intensifying marketing efforts, with the new Super Bowl ad aligning with this approach.

Jon Cryer Casts Doubt on Possibility of ‘Two and a Half Men’ Reboot

Jon Cryer, known for his role on ‘Two and a Half Men,’ expressed doubt about the possibility of a reboot during an appearance on ‘The View.’ He cited a strained relationship with Charlie Sheen and uncertainty about partnering with him again. Cryer also acknowledged Sheen’s past behavior and expressed reservations about a long-term business arrangement with him.

Vietnamese St. Louisans Celebrate Lunar New Year with Unique Cultural Traditions

Vietnamese St. Louisans in the United States are gearing up to celebrate the Lunar New Year in their own unique way. The nonprofit St. Louis Vietnamese Community has been organizing Tết celebrations in St. Louis for over thirty years, and this year, they are adding a free, family-friendly event at the Missouri History Museum to showcase the special traditions of Vietnamese New Year. Learn more about the upcoming events and the community’s role in keeping multiple generations of Vietnamese Americans connected to their cultural traditions.

Iconic Super Bowl National Anthem Performances

Explore some of the most iconic Super Bowl national anthem performances, from Faith Hill’s drum and bagpipe accompaniment to Lady Gaga’s vocal-focused rendition. These performances have left a lasting impact on viewers and set the bar for future renditions.

Beyond Wonderland Electronic Music Festival Set to Debut in Chicago

Beyond Wonderland, the highly anticipated electronic music festival, is making its debut on Northerly Island in Chicago this summer. With a diverse range of electronic sub-genres and performances from top artists, the two-day event promises to be an immersive experience for music enthusiasts in the region.

Anthony Michael Hall and Sonya Cassidy Join Cast of ‘Reacher’ for Season 3

Anthony Michael Hall and Sonya Cassidy join the cast of ‘Reacher’ for its third season. Hall will play a successful businessman suspected of criminal involvement, while Cassidy will portray a sharp-witted DEA agent. The series, based on Lee Child’s bestselling ‘Jack Reacher’ series, is currently in production in Toronto and has quickly become a hit on Prime Video.

Valerie Bertinelli’s Refusal to Weigh Herself Sparks Body Positivity Conversation

Valerie Bertinelli, known for her roles in ‘Hot in Cleveland’ and ‘Kids Baking Championship,’ recently made headlines for her refusal to weigh herself after being called ‘overweight’ at 150 pounds. The 63-year-old actress took to Instagram to share her perspective, stating that she no longer weighs herself because she believes the standards for weight are ‘stupid’ and that she is more focused on being a kind, considerate, and thoughtful woman. Her candidness about her journey to prioritize mental and emotional well-being over physical appearance serves as a powerful message of empowerment and self-love for her audience.

Netflix releases new romance series One Day based on best-selling novel

Netflix has released a new romance series, One Day, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Based on the best-selling novel by David Nicholls, the series follows the tumultuous relationship between Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew over more than a decade. With a miniseries format offering a more compelling and nuanced retelling of the story, the new adaptation is set to tug at the heartstrings of viewers.