By MARÍA VERZA Associated Press

MEXICO CITY — Mexico's Popocatepetl volcano rumbled to life again this week, belching out towering clouds of ash that forced 11 villages to cancel school sessions.

The residents weren't the only ones keeping a close eye on the towering peak. Every time there is a sigh, tic or heave in Popocatepetl, there are dozens of scientists, a network of sensors and cameras, and a roomful of powerful equipment watching its every move.

The 17,797-foot (5,426-meter) volcano, known affectionately as "El Popo," has been spewing toxic fumes, ash and lumps of incandescent rock persistently for almost 30 years, since it awakened from a long slumber in 1994.

The volcano is 45 miles (72 kilometers) southeast of Mexico City, but looms much closer to the eastern fringes of the metropolitan area of 22 million people. The city also faces threats from earthquakes and sinking soil, but the volcano is the most visible potential danger — and the most closely watched. A severe eruption could cut off air traffic, or smother the city in clouds of choking ash.

Ringed around its summit are six cameras, a thermal imaging device and 12 seismological monitoring stations that operate 24 hours a day, all reporting back to an equipment-filled command center in Mexico City.

A total of 13 scientists from a multidisciplinary team take turns staffing the command center around the clock. Being able to warn of an impending ash cloud is key, because people can take precautions. Unlike earthquakes, warning times can be longer for the volcano and in general the peak is more predictable.

On a recent day, researcher Paulino Alonso made the rounds, checking the readings at the command center run by Mexico's National Disaster Prevention Center, known by its initials as Cenapred. It is a complex task that involves seismographs that measure the volcano's internal trembling, which could indicate hot rock and gas moving up the vents in the peak.

Monitoring gases in nearby springs and at the peak — and wind patterns that help determine where the ash could be blown — also play a role.

The forces inside are so great that they can temporarily deform the peak, so cameras and sensors must monitor the very shape of the volcano.

How do you explain all of this to 25 million non-experts living within a 62-mile (100-kilometer) radius who have grown so used to living near the volcano?

Authorities came up with the simple idea of a volcano "stoplight" with three colors: green for safety, yellow for alert and red for danger.

For most of the years since the stoplight was introduced, it has been stuck at some stage of "yellow." The mountain sometimes quiets down, but not for long. It seldom shoots up molten lava: instead it's more the "explosive" type, showering out hot rocks that tumble down its flanks and emitting bursts of gas and ash.

The center also has monitors in other states; Mexico is a country all too familiar with natural disasters.

For example, Mexico's earthquake early alert system is also based at the command center. Because the city's soil is so soft — it was built on a former lake bed — a quake hundreds of miles away on the Pacific coast can cause huge destruction in the capital, as happened in 1985 and 2017.

A system of seismic monitors along the coast sends messages that race faster than the quake's shock waves. Once the sirens start blaring, it can give Mexico City residents up to half a minute to get to safety, usually on the streets outside.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684549361347.jpeg" alt="A plume of ash and steam rises from the Popocatepetl volcano, as seen from Mexico City June 19, 2019. Popocatepetl rumbled to life again this week, spewing out towering clouds of ash that forced 11 villages to cancel school sessions. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte, file)" />
 <figcaption>A plume of ash and steam rises from the Popocatepetl volcano, as seen from Mexico City June 19, 2019. Popocatepetl rumbled to life again this week, spewing out towering clouds of ash that forced 11 villages to cancel school sessions. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte, file)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARÍA VERZA Associated PressMEXICO CITY — Mexico's Popocatepetl volcano rumbled to life again this week, belching out towering clouds of ash that forced 11 villages to cancel school sessions.The residents weren't the only ones keeping a close eye on the towering peak. Every time there is a sigh, tic or heave in Popocatepetl, there are dozens of scientists, a network of sensors and cameras, and a roomful of powerful equipment watching its every move.The 17,797-foot (5,426-meter) volcano, known affectionately as "El Popo," has been spewing toxic fumes, ash and lumps of incandescent rock persistently for almost 30 years, since it awakened from a long slumber in 1994.The volcano is 45 miles (72 kilometers) southeast of Mexico City, but looms much closer to the eastern fringes of the metropolitan area of 22 million people. The city also faces threats from earthquakes and sinking soil, but the volcano is the most visible potential danger — and the most closely watched. A severe eruption could cut off air traffic, or smother the city in clouds of choking ash.Ringed around its summit are six cameras, a thermal imaging device and 12 seismological monitoring stations that operate 24 hours a day, all reporting back to an equipment-filled command center in Mexico City.A total of 13 scientists from a multidisciplinary team take turns staffing the command center around the clock. Being able to warn of an impending ash cloud is key, because people can take precautions. Unlike earthquakes, warning times can be longer for the volcano and in general the peak is more predictable.On a recent day, researcher Paulino Alonso made the rounds, checking the readings at the command center run by Mexico's National Disaster Prevention Center, known by its initials as Cenapred. It is a complex task that involves seismographs that measure the volcano's internal trembling, which could indicate hot rock and gas moving up the vents in the peak.Monitoring gases in nearby springs and at the peak — and wind patterns that help determine where the ash could be blown — also play a role.The forces inside are so great that they can temporarily deform the peak, so cameras and sensors must monitor the very shape of the volcano.How do you explain all of this to 25 million non-experts living within a 62-mile (100-kilometer) radius who have grown so used to living near the volcano?Authorities came up with the simple idea of a volcano "stoplight" with three colors: green for safety, yellow for alert and red for danger.For most of the years since the stoplight was introduced, it has been stuck at some stage of "yellow." The mountain sometimes quiets down, but not for long. It seldom shoots up molten lava: instead it's more the "explosive" type, showering out hot rocks that tumble down its flanks and emitting bursts of gas and ash.The center also has monitors in other states; Mexico is a country all too familiar with natural disasters.For example, Mexico's earthquake early alert system is also based at the command center. Because the city's soil is so soft — it was built on a former lake bed — a quake hundreds of miles away on the Pacific coast can cause huge destruction in the capital, as happened in 1985 and 2017.A system of seismic monitors along the coast sends messages that race faster than the quake's shock waves. Once the sirens start blaring, it can give Mexico City residents up to half a minute to get to safety, usually on the streets outside.

Threatening 22M people, Mexico's Popocatepetl very closely watched

WASHINGTON — Dutton and Wrenlee are on the rise but they're no match for champs Liam and Olivia as the top baby names in the U.S. last year.

The Social Security Administration released the annual list Friday. The agency tracks baby names in each state based on applications for Social Security cards, with names dating to 1880.

It's Liam's sixth straight year as No. 1. Olivia has reigned since the name unseated Emma four years ago. Emma is No. 2.

Coming in third for girls' names is Charlotte, followed by Amelia, Sophia, Isabella, Ava, Mia, Evelyn and Luna. For boys' names, Liam is followed by Noah, Oliver, James, Elijah, William, Henry, Lucas, Benjamin and Theodore.

Luna is the only newcomer in the Top 10, booting Harper.

The agency has been compiling the list since 1997, often revealing the impact pop culture has on baby naming trends. The smash hit "Yellowstone" has clearly influenced new parents. The neo-Western starring Kevin Costner debuted in 2018, with characters surfacing among baby names ever since.

Dutton moved up the Social Security list to 835, a change of 986 spots from 2021. It's the last name of the fictional family featured on the series, and it counts Costner's John Dutton in its ranks. Dutton is the fastest rising name in the Social Security rankings.

Another Dutton name follows actual Dutton as a star with a bullet among baby names. Kayce, as in Kayce John Dutton on the show, moved to the 587th most popular name, up from 1,077 the year before. Luke Grimes plays Kayce.

Rip, also from "Yellowstone," has grabbed some naming attention, but it didn't crack Social Security's top 1,000. Cole Hauser's Rip Wheeler is Dutton adjacent as the son-in-law of John.

Other names rising fast for boys: Chosen, Khaza, Eithan. For girls, Wrenlee is followed by Neriah, Arlet, Georgina and Amiri.

The Social Security Administration's latest data shows 3.64 million babies in the U.S. were issued Social Security cards last year, up slightly from 2021.

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSWASHINGTON — Dutton and Wrenlee are on the rise but they're no match for champs Liam and Olivia as the top baby names in the U.S. last year.The Social Security Administration released the annual list Friday. The agency tracks baby names in each state based on applications for Social Security cards, with names dating to 1880.It's Liam's sixth straight year as No. 1. Olivia has reigned since the name unseated Emma four years ago. Emma is No. 2.Coming in third for girls' names is Charlotte, followed by Amelia, Sophia, Isabella, Ava, Mia, Evelyn and Luna. For boys' names, Liam is followed by Noah, Oliver, James, Elijah, William, Henry, Lucas, Benjamin and Theodore.Luna is the only newcomer in the Top 10, booting Harper.The agency has been compiling the list since 1997, often revealing the impact pop culture has on baby naming trends. The smash hit "Yellowstone" has clearly influenced new parents. The neo-Western starring Kevin Costner debuted in 2018, with characters surfacing among baby names ever since.Dutton moved up the Social Security list to 835, a change of 986 spots from 2021. It's the last name of the fictional family featured on the series, and it counts Costner's John Dutton in its ranks. Dutton is the fastest rising name in the Social Security rankings.Another Dutton name follows actual Dutton as a star with a bullet among baby names. Kayce, as in Kayce John Dutton on the show, moved to the 587th most popular name, up from 1,077 the year before. Luke Grimes plays Kayce.Rip, also from "Yellowstone," has grabbed some naming attention, but it didn't crack Social Security's top 1,000. Cole Hauser's Rip Wheeler is Dutton adjacent as the son-in-law of John.Other names rising fast for boys: Chosen, Khaza, Eithan. For girls, Wrenlee is followed by Neriah, Arlet, Georgina and Amiri.The Social Security Administration's latest data shows 3.64 million babies in the U.S. were issued Social Security cards last year, up slightly from 2021.

See what baby names were the most popular last year

By DANICA KIRKA Associated Press

LONDON — Heather Howarth tugged at King Charles III's ears and tittered with satisfaction.

The other ladies who gather to knit and natter in her small English village thought the ears should be bigger. But when creating a crocheted likeness of the new king, she was determined not to cause offense.

"He might not like this one," she said reaching out to give the king a fond pat. "But he'll love his Grenadier Guards!"

Howarth and her friends in the village of Hurst, a stone's throw from Reading, west of London, have fashioned a woolly coronation procession to rival the pomp and circumstance that will take place when Charles is crowned on May 6 at Westminster Abbey. Sheathing the 29 posts that circle the community pond with their knitted and crocheted creations, the women have recreated the cast of characters set to attend the big event.

There's the king, of course, the queen consort and the Archbishop of Canterbury. And lots of Grenadier Guards. They even threw in Paddington Bear — a sort of honorary member of the royal family after he shared tea with the late Queen Elizabeth II in a film celebrating her 70 years on the throne.

The Hurst Hookers are part of a phenomenon that has taken hold across Britain in recent years, with guerrilla knitters and crochet enthusiasts celebrating holidays and royal occasions by decorating the nation's iconic red post boxes and other public spaces with their handiwork. There's no money in it, and the creations are sometimes stolen. But they do it anyway because they have fun brightening their communities, even if no one asked them to.

"Yarn bombers" around the country have been hard at work for months creating everything from golden coaches to crenelated castles and jewel-encrusted crowns that will add fuzzy bits of color to the coronation festivities.

This is a group that got started during the coronavirus pandemic, meeting every couple of weeks at the local cricket club when Britain's intermittent lockdowns would permit. It's bring your own gin and tonic, but there's tea for anyone who wants it. When the 18 women aren't meeting up for crocheting and community, they keep in touch via WhatsApp. The pings are so incessant at least one member has had to turn off her alerts.

They began planning and creating their coronation scene in early September, soon after the queen died and Charles became king. By April, it was finally time to install it.

The "guerrilla'' action began just after 5:30 p.m. on a recent Friday as the setting sun bathed the newly cleaned pond in a peaceful light.

Clad in jackets and sweaters on a chilly spring night, the women arrived with their creations tucked inside huge shopping bags emblazoned with supermarket logos, then swooped down on the posts surrounding the pond.

There was little stealth, but much determination.

First they pulled out the crocheted likenesses of Charles, wearing a crown and a cape fashioned from an old Christmas stocking, and Camilla, with a flash of unruly blond hair. Then came the archbishop, whose spectacles rest on a bulbous woolen nose. And finally, the red-coated guardsmen.

Quick as you like, the figures were pulled down over the posts and firmly stapled in place, with the precisely embroidered medals, moustaches, sergeant stripes and other embellishments getting an extra staple or three.

"King Charles wants our support, doesn't he?" Howarth said. "How else do I show that I am supporting him?''

Valerie Thorn, who did the embroidery, carefully researched all the decorations, so that every medal was from a different campaign in which the guards participated. The insignia on Charles' chest is so precise that from a few feet you mistake it for the real thing. The archbishop's miter, modeled after the one he wore at his installation, is immediately recognizable.

So far, the fat sergeant character seems to be the village favorite.

A Daily Mail newspaper columnist described crafters such as these as "unhinged … woolly delinquents." Rather than taking offense, the ladies of the Hurst Hookers embraced the jibe.

"I'm going to embroider that on a T-shirt,'' said Thorn, 76, with pride. "If I am unhinged, what is wrong with that?''

And when the installation was almost complete, there was the moment to put the icing on the confection.

Pip Etheridge pulled out a resplendent copy of St. Edward's Crown — the crown that will be placed on Charles' head next weekend — and handed it to Janette Vorster because she didn't want to be in the pictures.

In a procession all their own, the group trooped to the village store for the piece de resistance, installing the crown atop the post box out front.

As they chatted around the post box, the group debated whether their handiwork was more about the coronation or about themselves. They giggled, talked about posting the photos on social media and wondered what the neighbors might say. And they just kept laughing.

"If you swapped that one with the real one," Etheridge asked, nodding to her crown, "do you think he'd notice?"

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682865565863.jpeg" alt="Heather and David Howarth adjust a knitted figure of Britain's King Charles III fitted to a post during a pre-coronation yarn bombing in the village of Hurst, near Reading, England, April 21. Howarth and her friends in the village of Hurst, a stone’s throw from Reading, west of London, have fashioned a woolly coronation procession to rival the pomp and circumstance that will take place when Charles is crowned on May 6 at Westminster Abbey. (AP Photo/David Cliff)" />
 <figcaption>Heather and David Howarth adjust a knitted figure of Britain's King Charles III fitted to a post during a pre-coronation yarn bombing in the village of Hurst, near Reading, England, April 21. Howarth and her friends in the village of Hurst, a stone’s throw from Reading, west of London, have fashioned a woolly coronation procession to rival the pomp and circumstance that will take place when Charles is crowned on May 6 at Westminster Abbey. (AP Photo/David Cliff)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DANICA KIRKA Associated PressLONDON — Heather Howarth tugged at King Charles III's ears and tittered with satisfaction.The other ladies who gather to knit and natter in her small English village thought the ears should be bigger. But when creating a crocheted likeness of the new king, she was determined not to cause offense."He might not like this one," she said reaching out to give the king a fond pat. "But he'll love his Grenadier Guards!"Howarth and her friends in the village of Hurst, a stone's throw from Reading, west of London, have fashioned a woolly coronation procession to rival the pomp and circumstance that will take place when Charles is crowned on May 6 at Westminster Abbey. Sheathing the 29 posts that circle the community pond with their knitted and crocheted creations, the women have recreated the cast of characters set to attend the big event.There's the king, of course, the queen consort and the Archbishop of Canterbury. And lots of Grenadier Guards. They even threw in Paddington Bear — a sort of honorary member of the royal family after he shared tea with the late Queen Elizabeth II in a film celebrating her 70 years on the throne.The Hurst Hookers are part of a phenomenon that has taken hold across Britain in recent years, with guerrilla knitters and crochet enthusiasts celebrating holidays and royal occasions by decorating the nation's iconic red post boxes and other public spaces with their handiwork. There's no money in it, and the creations are sometimes stolen. But they do it anyway because they have fun brightening their communities, even if no one asked them to."Yarn bombers" around the country have been hard at work for months creating everything from golden coaches to crenelated castles and jewel-encrusted crowns that will add fuzzy bits of color to the coronation festivities.But how to explain the Hurst Hookers?This is a group that got started during the coronavirus pandemic, meeting every couple of weeks at the local cricket club when Britain's intermittent lockdowns would permit. It's bring your own gin and tonic, but there's tea for anyone who wants it. When the 18 women aren't meeting up for crocheting and community, they keep in touch via WhatsApp. The pings are so incessant at least one member has had to turn off her alerts.They began planning and creating their coronation scene in early September, soon after the queen died and Charles became king. By April, it was finally time to install it.The "guerrilla'' action began just after 5:30 p.m. on a recent Friday as the setting sun bathed the newly cleaned pond in a peaceful light.Clad in jackets and sweaters on a chilly spring night, the women arrived with their creations tucked inside huge shopping bags emblazoned with supermarket logos, then swooped down on the posts surrounding the pond.There was little stealth, but much determination.First they pulled out the crocheted likenesses of Charles, wearing a crown and a cape fashioned from an old Christmas stocking, and Camilla, with a flash of unruly blond hair. Then came the archbishop, whose spectacles rest on a bulbous woolen nose. And finally, the red-coated guardsmen.Quick as you like, the figures were pulled down over the posts and firmly stapled in place, with the precisely embroidered medals, moustaches, sergeant stripes and other embellishments getting an extra staple or three."King Charles wants our support, doesn't he?" Howarth said. "How else do I show that I am supporting him?''Valerie Thorn, who did the embroidery, carefully researched all the decorations, so that every medal was from a different campaign in which the guards participated. The insignia on Charles' chest is so precise that from a few feet you mistake it for the real thing. The archbishop's miter, modeled after the one he wore at his installation, is immediately recognizable.So far, the fat sergeant character seems to be the village favorite.A Daily Mail newspaper columnist described crafters such as these as "unhinged … woolly delinquents." Rather than taking offense, the ladies of the Hurst Hookers embraced the jibe."I'm going to embroider that on a T-shirt,'' said Thorn, 76, with pride. "If I am unhinged, what is wrong with that?''And when the installation was almost complete, there was the moment to put the icing on the confection.Pip Etheridge pulled out a resplendent copy of St. Edward's Crown — the crown that will be placed on Charles' head next weekend — and handed it to Janette Vorster because she didn't want to be in the pictures.In a procession all their own, the group trooped to the village store for the piece de resistance, installing the crown atop the post box out front.As they chatted around the post box, the group debated whether their handiwork was more about the coronation or about themselves. They giggled, talked about posting the photos on social media and wondered what the neighbors might say. And they just kept laughing."If you swapped that one with the real one," Etheridge asked, nodding to her crown, "do you think he'd notice?"

'Woolly delinquents' celebrate Charles' coronation in yarn

TALLAHASSEE,
 Fla. (AP) — Disney sued Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Wednesday over the
 Republican's takeover of its theme park district, alleging the governor
 waged a "targeted campaign of government retaliation" after the company
 opposed a law critics call <a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-lifestyle-education-florida-ron-desantis-322e0a40da909f48954b8b1bd9190750">“Don't Say Gay.”</a>

The lawsuit was filed in Tallahassee minutes after a Disney World oversight board <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ron-desantis">appointed by DeSantis</a>
 voted to void a deal that gave the company authority over design and 
construction decisions in its sprawling properties near Orlando.

"Disney
 regrets that it has come to this," the case said. “But having exhausted
 efforts to seek a resolution, the Company is left with no choice but to
 file this lawsuit to protect its cast members, guests, and local 
development partners from a relentless campaign to weaponize government 
power against Disney in retaliation for expressing a political viewpoint
 unpopular with certain State officials.”

The legal filing is the latest salvo in <a href="https://apnews.com/article/disney-desantis-florida-lgbtq-ec4f81d46aaf8967ff48729105fbbdbd">a more than year-old feud</a> between Disney and DeSantis that has engulfed the governor in criticism as he prepares to launch <a href="https://apnews.com/article/desantis-florida-trump-president-2024-election-00b8335b1a2dd4d08fb216e4b609f6a3">an expected presidential bid</a> in the coming months.

DeSantis,
 who has framed himself as a Republican firebrand able to deftly 
implement his conservative agenda without drama, has dived headlong into
 the fray with the beloved company and major tourism driver, as business
 leaders and White House rivals bash his stance as a rejection of the 
small-government tenets of conservatism.

“We are unaware of any 
legal right that a company has to operate its own government or maintain
 special privileges not held by other businesses in the state,” said 
DeSantis spokeswoman Taryn Fenske. “This lawsuit is yet another 
unfortunate example of their hope to undermine the will of the Florida 
voters and operate outside the bounds of the law.”

The fight began last year after Disney, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-travel-arts-and-entertainment-florida-lifestyle-be24e5ea65acff3e1cfe94649c26e023">in the face of significant pressure</a>,
 publicly opposed a state law that bans classroom lessons on sexual 
orientation and gender identity in early grades, a policy critics call 
“Don’t Say Gay.”

As punishment, DeSantis took over Disney World’s 
self-governing district and appointed a new board of supervisors that 
would oversee municipal services in the sprawling theme parks. But 
before the new board came in, the company pushed though an 11th-hour 
agreement that stripped the new supervisors of much of their authority.

The
 DeSantis board on Wednesday said Disney’s move to retain control over 
their property was effectively unlawful and performed without proper 
public notice.

“Disney picked the fight with this board. We were 
not looking out for a fight,” said Martin Garcia, chair of the Central 
Florida Tourism Oversight District, before the vote, adding “bottom 
line, what our lawyers have told us, is factually and legally what they 
created is an absolute legal mess. It will not work."

DeSantis has
 also vowed additional retribution, with proposals to enhance state 
oversight of the resort’s rides and monorail, as well as a suggestion to
 build a prison nearby.

Disney has said all agreements made with 
the previous board were legal and approved in a public forum. Disney CEO
 Bob Iger has also said that any actions against the company that 
threaten jobs or expansion at its Florida resort was not only 
“anti-business” but “anti-Florida.”

The Disney lawsuit asks a 
federal judge to void the governor's takeover of the theme park 
district, as well as the DeSantis oversight board's actions, on the 
grounds that they were violations of company's free speech rights.

“A
 targeted campaign of government retaliation — orchestrated at every 
step by Governor DeSantis as punishment for Disney’s protected speech — 
now threatens Disney’s business operations, jeopardizes its economic 
future in the region, and violates its constitutional rights," the 
lawsuit said.

TALLAHASSEE,
 Fla. (AP) — Disney sued Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Wednesday over the
 Republican's takeover of its theme park district, alleging the governor
 waged a "targeted campaign of government retaliation" after the company
 opposed a law critics call <a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-lifestyle-education-florida-ron-desantis-322e0a40da909f48954b8b1bd9190750">“Don't Say Gay.”</a>The lawsuit was filed in Tallahassee minutes after a Disney World oversight board <a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ron-desantis">appointed by DeSantis</a>
 voted to void a deal that gave the company authority over design and 
construction decisions in its sprawling properties near Orlando."Disney
 regrets that it has come to this," the case said. “But having exhausted
 efforts to seek a resolution, the Company is left with no choice but to
 file this lawsuit to protect its cast members, guests, and local 
development partners from a relentless campaign to weaponize government 
power against Disney in retaliation for expressing a political viewpoint
 unpopular with certain State officials.”The legal filing is the latest salvo in <a href="https://apnews.com/article/disney-desantis-florida-lgbtq-ec4f81d46aaf8967ff48729105fbbdbd">a more than year-old feud</a> between Disney and DeSantis that has engulfed the governor in criticism as he prepares to launch <a href="https://apnews.com/article/desantis-florida-trump-president-2024-election-00b8335b1a2dd4d08fb216e4b609f6a3">an expected presidential bid</a> in the coming months.DeSantis,
 who has framed himself as a Republican firebrand able to deftly 
implement his conservative agenda without drama, has dived headlong into
 the fray with the beloved company and major tourism driver, as business
 leaders and White House rivals bash his stance as a rejection of the 
small-government tenets of conservatism.“We are unaware of any 
legal right that a company has to operate its own government or maintain
 special privileges not held by other businesses in the state,” said 
DeSantis spokeswoman Taryn Fenske. “This lawsuit is yet another 
unfortunate example of their hope to undermine the will of the Florida 
voters and operate outside the bounds of the law.”The fight began last year after Disney, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-travel-arts-and-entertainment-florida-lifestyle-be24e5ea65acff3e1cfe94649c26e023">in the face of significant pressure</a>,
 publicly opposed a state law that bans classroom lessons on sexual 
orientation and gender identity in early grades, a policy critics call 
“Don’t Say Gay.”As punishment, DeSantis took over Disney World’s 
self-governing district and appointed a new board of supervisors that 
would oversee municipal services in the sprawling theme parks. But 
before the new board came in, the company pushed though an 11th-hour 
agreement that stripped the new supervisors of much of their authority.The
 DeSantis board on Wednesday said Disney’s move to retain control over 
their property was effectively unlawful and performed without proper 
public notice.“Disney picked the fight with this board. We were 
not looking out for a fight,” said Martin Garcia, chair of the Central 
Florida Tourism Oversight District, before the vote, adding “bottom 
line, what our lawyers have told us, is factually and legally what they 
created is an absolute legal mess. It will not work."DeSantis has
 also vowed additional retribution, with proposals to enhance state 
oversight of the resort’s rides and monorail, as well as a suggestion to
 build a prison nearby.Disney has said all agreements made with 
the previous board were legal and approved in a public forum. Disney CEO
 Bob Iger has also said that any actions against the company that 
threaten jobs or expansion at its Florida resort was not only 
“anti-business” but “anti-Florida.”The Disney lawsuit asks a 
federal judge to void the governor's takeover of the theme park 
district, as well as the DeSantis oversight board's actions, on the 
grounds that they were violations of company's free speech rights.“A
 targeted campaign of government retaliation — orchestrated at every 
step by Governor DeSantis as punishment for Disney’s protected speech — 
now threatens Disney’s business operations, jeopardizes its economic 
future in the region, and violates its constitutional rights," the 
lawsuit said.

Disney sues DeSantis, calling park takeover 'retaliation'

By CINDY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/dumbbell-ranch-operation-in-nebraska-sandhills-poised-for-next-chapter/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

OMAHA — After less than a month on the market, the Nebraska Sandhills ranch with the quirky name and <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/04/03/dumbbell-in-nebraska-sandhills-gains-spotlight-with-sheer-size-storied-past/">storied past</a> is poised to be purchased by a Colorado family.

The owners of the Dumbbell Ranch in 
the Hyannis area have a preliminary agreement with the potential buyer. 
And a member of the family that has had an ownership interest in the 
15,500-acre property for more than a century said she is happy.

Anne Anderson Bennett of the Red Oak,
 Iowa area, said her family had hoped to pass on the Dumbbell legacy to a
 family, as opposed to a corporation or big entity. If all goes as 
hoped, she said, the Anderson Family trust this summer will turn the 
reins over to the Colorado ranching family, which had been wanting to 
relocate its operation to the Sandhills.

The asking price for the Dumbbell was
 $16.7 million, and Bennett said she was pleased with the price offered.
 She declined to provide too many details until the deal is officially 
sealed.

“It is bittersweet,” she said, as the
 Dumbbell has been a part of her family since 1913. “But I am so excited
 that a family is going to be able to continue the tradition. I think 
they will be a fabulous asset for the community.”

Bennett said she hadn’t met the 
family yet, but knew that there had been multiple offers on the ranch 
operation in the few weeks since <a target="_blank" href="https://hallhall.com/property-for-sale/nebraska/dumbbell-ranch/a095d00002U10JQ/">marketing</a> began.

The Dumbbell attracted attention from
 local and outside interests, in large part because of its size and 
storied past. Valentine area broker Mark Johnson of Hall and Hall, which
 marketed the ranch, said he was a bit taken aback by the widespread 
response.&nbsp;

“It really was the right time,” <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/04/03/dumbbell-in-nebraska-sandhills-gains-spotlight-with-sheer-size-storied-past/">Bennett told the Nebrask</a>a
 Examiner in early April about putting the Dumbbell operation up for 
sale. At 57, she is getting married again. Her only brother has a 
separate career in Colorado.

Younger generations of Andersons, 
namely Bennett’s daughters, who are in their 20s, had more pressing 
interests than continuing the ranch ties.

On Monday, Bennett was busy helping 
to write high school graduation announcements for her stepson and was 
working on plans for her nuptials.

“I’m relieved,” she said. “I’m very grateful for the interest.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554659570.png" alt="The Dumbbell Ranch spans about 15,500 acres, mostly in Nebraska’s Cherry County, known as the nation’s “top cow county.” It is for sale, which means it will have owners outside the Anderson family for first time in over a century. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)" />
 <figcaption>The Dumbbell Ranch spans about 15,500 acres, mostly in Nebraska’s Cherry County, known as the nation’s “top cow county.” It is for sale, which means it will have owners outside the Anderson family for first time in over a century. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)</figcaption>
 </figure>By CINDY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/dumbbell-ranch-operation-in-nebraska-sandhills-poised-for-next-chapter/">Nebraska Examiner</a>OMAHA — After less than a month on the market, the Nebraska Sandhills ranch with the quirky name and <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/04/03/dumbbell-in-nebraska-sandhills-gains-spotlight-with-sheer-size-storied-past/">storied past</a> is poised to be purchased by a Colorado family.The owners of the Dumbbell Ranch in 
the Hyannis area have a preliminary agreement with the potential buyer. 
And a member of the family that has had an ownership interest in the 
15,500-acre property for more than a century said she is happy.Anne Anderson Bennett of the Red Oak,
 Iowa area, said her family had hoped to pass on the Dumbbell legacy to a
 family, as opposed to a corporation or big entity. If all goes as 
hoped, she said, the Anderson Family trust this summer will turn the 
reins over to the Colorado ranching family, which had been wanting to 
relocate its operation to the Sandhills.The asking price for the Dumbbell was
 $16.7 million, and Bennett said she was pleased with the price offered.
 She declined to provide too many details until the deal is officially 
sealed.“It is bittersweet,” she said, as the
 Dumbbell has been a part of her family since 1913. “But I am so excited
 that a family is going to be able to continue the tradition. I think 
they will be a fabulous asset for the community.”Bennett said she hadn’t met the 
family yet, but knew that there had been multiple offers on the ranch 
operation in the few weeks since <a target="_blank" href="https://hallhall.com/property-for-sale/nebraska/dumbbell-ranch/a095d00002U10JQ/">marketing</a> began.The Dumbbell attracted attention from
 local and outside interests, in large part because of its size and 
storied past. Valentine area broker Mark Johnson of Hall and Hall, which
 marketed the ranch, said he was a bit taken aback by the widespread 
response.&nbsp;“It really was the right time,” <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/04/03/dumbbell-in-nebraska-sandhills-gains-spotlight-with-sheer-size-storied-past/">Bennett told the Nebrask</a>a
 Examiner in early April about putting the Dumbbell operation up for 
sale. At 57, she is getting married again. Her only brother has a 
separate career in Colorado.Younger generations of Andersons, 
namely Bennett’s daughters, who are in their 20s, had more pressing 
interests than continuing the ranch ties.On Monday, Bennett was busy helping 
to write high school graduation announcements for her stepson and was 
working on plans for her nuptials.“I’m relieved,” she said. “I’m very grateful for the interest.”

Massive Dumbbell Ranch in Nebraska Sandhills poised for next chapter

Meetings set to provide information for canola growers

K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN – A decision by a Nebraska-based agribusiness to recommission an oilseed crush facility near Goodland has opened an opportunity for farmers in Kansas and Oklahoma, said a Kansas State University agronomist.&nbsp;

Canola breeder Mike Stamm noted that Scoular – which lists more than 100 offices in North America and Asia and sales of more than $9 billion –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scoular.com/news/scoular-invests-in-kansas-oilseed-crush-facility-for-renewable-fuels-market/">announced in mid-March</a>&nbsp;that it would retrofit the facility to crush both soybeans and canola.&nbsp;

The facility is expected to begin operations in fall 2024.&nbsp;

“We wanted to support them by getting growers together to learn more,” Stamm said. “For alternative oilseeds like canola to be successfully grown in Kansas, it is crucial to have a readily available end market within the region, which Scoular will provide.”&nbsp;

Stamm said K-State Research and the Great Plains Canola Association will host several canola informational meetings for new and experienced growers. The meetings are scheduled for May 11 in Enid, Oklahoma, and May 18 in Montezuma, Kansas and Harper, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He said the meetings will include an update from Scoular on their marketing and pricing strategies and the company’s vision for the rapidly changing renewable fuels market. Brief updates on canola research and extension activities will be given, as well as an update from the Great Plains Canola Association.&nbsp;

The meetings are free to attend, but reservations are required because a meal will be provided. Location and contacts for each meeting include:&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thursday, May 11: Hoover Building, 300 E Oxford Ave, Enid, Okla.&nbsp;

RSVP to Ron Sholar,&nbsp;<a></a><a href="mailto:jrsholar@aol.com">jrsholar@aol.com</a>&nbsp; Thursday, May 18: Montezuma Community Building, 508 West Sunnyside Ave., Montezuma, Kansas.&nbsp;

RSVP to the Gray County Extension Office, 620-855-3821, or Kurt Werth,&nbsp;<a></a><a href="mailto:kwerth@ksu.edu">kwerth@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; Thursday, May 18, 2023 – Fencepost, 700 E. 14th St., Harper, Kansas&nbsp;

<a>RSVP to the Harper County Extension Office, 620-842-5445, or Jenni Carr,&nbsp;</a><a></a><a href="mailto:jlcarr@ksu.edu">jlcarr@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682342241976.png" alt="Photo courtesy Scoular" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Scoular</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Meetings set to provide information for canola growers</h2>K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;MANHATTAN – A decision by a Nebraska-based agribusiness to recommission an oilseed crush facility near Goodland has opened an opportunity for farmers in Kansas and Oklahoma, said a Kansas State University agronomist.&nbsp;Canola breeder Mike Stamm noted that Scoular – which lists more than 100 offices in North America and Asia and sales of more than $9 billion –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scoular.com/news/scoular-invests-in-kansas-oilseed-crush-facility-for-renewable-fuels-market/">announced in mid-March</a>&nbsp;that it would retrofit the facility to crush both soybeans and canola.&nbsp;The facility is expected to begin operations in fall 2024.&nbsp;“We wanted to support them by getting growers together to learn more,” Stamm said. “For alternative oilseeds like canola to be successfully grown in Kansas, it is crucial to have a readily available end market within the region, which Scoular will provide.”&nbsp;Stamm said K-State Research and the Great Plains Canola Association will host several canola informational meetings for new and experienced growers. The meetings are scheduled for May 11 in Enid, Oklahoma, and May 18 in Montezuma, Kansas and Harper, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;He said the meetings will include an update from Scoular on their marketing and pricing strategies and the company’s vision for the rapidly changing renewable fuels market. Brief updates on canola research and extension activities will be given, as well as an update from the Great Plains Canola Association.&nbsp;The meetings are free to attend, but reservations are required because a meal will be provided. Location and contacts for each meeting include:&nbsp;&nbsp;Thursday, May 11: Hoover Building, 300 E Oxford Ave, Enid, Okla.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>9:30 a.m., Coffee and networking&nbsp;</li><li>10 a.m., presentation and meeting&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>RSVP to Ron Sholar,&nbsp;<a></a><a href="mailto:jrsholar@aol.com">jrsholar@aol.com</a>&nbsp; Thursday, May 18: Montezuma Community Building, 508 West Sunnyside Ave., Montezuma, Kansas.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>12 p.m., presentation and meal&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>RSVP to the Gray County Extension Office, 620-855-3821, or Kurt Werth,&nbsp;<a></a><a href="mailto:kwerth@ksu.edu">kwerth@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; Thursday, May 18, 2023 – Fencepost, 700 E. 14th St., Harper, Kansas&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>6 p.m., presentation and meal&nbsp;</li>
 </ul> <a>RSVP to the Harper County Extension Office, 620-842-5445, or Jenni Carr,&nbsp;</a><a></a><a href="mailto:jlcarr@ksu.edu">jlcarr@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Goodland crush facility opens opportunity for Kansas, Oklahoma farmers

NEW YORK (AP) — 
CNN fired longtime host Don Lemon on Monday following his short and 
disastrous run as a morning show host, a little over two months after he
 apologized for <a href="https://apnews.com/article/don-lemon-nikki-haley-e40445ae824a56e3548c17a029a80775">on-air comments</a> about Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley being past her prime.

The
 move quickly turned nasty. While CNN chairman and CEO Chris Licht 
announced, after Lemon had co-hosted the show Monday, that they had <a href="https://twitter.com/CNNPR/status/1650535190568026113" target="_blank">“parted ways,”</a> Lemon characterized it as a firing and said it was surprise to him.

“After
 17 years at CNN I would have thought someone in management would have 
the decency to tell me directly,” Lemon said. CNN said that Lemon was 
given the opportunity to meet with management but released a statement 
on Twitter instead.

CNN offered no 
public explanation for Lemon’s dismissal. During a February discussion 
on “CNN This Morning” with co-hosts Poppy Harlow and Kaitlan Collins 
about the ages of politicians, he said that the 51-year-old Haley was 
not “in her prime.” A woman, he said, was considered in her prime “in 
her 20s, 30s and maybe her 40s.”

Harlow challenged 
Lemon, trying to clarify what he was referencing: “I think we need to 
qualify. Are you talking about prime for childbearing or are you talking
 about prime for being president?”

“Don’t shoot the messenger, I’m just saying what the facts are,” Lemon responded.

Lemon
 issued a statement the same day saying he regretted his “inartful and 
irrelevant” comments. He was subsequently absent from the show for three
 days, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-tv-nikki-haley-don-lemon-52be979ee7c3b95dbcddedf23683e98c">returning the following week</a> with a tweeted apology but no mention of the episode on air.

Haley,
 who had criticized Lemon’s statements as sexist and used the incident 
to fundraise in February, took to Twitter on Monday to call Lemon’s 
ouster “a great day for women everywhere,” linking to the beverage 
sleeves emblazoned with “Past my prime? Hold my beer.”

Lemon
 used to host the prime-time “Don Lemon Tonight” but moved when the 
network launched “CNN This Morning” last November, just before the U.S. 
midterm elections, as one of the first major programming moves under 
Licht.

NEW YORK (AP) — 
CNN fired longtime host Don Lemon on Monday following his short and 
disastrous run as a morning show host, a little over two months after he
 apologized for <a href="https://apnews.com/article/don-lemon-nikki-haley-e40445ae824a56e3548c17a029a80775">on-air comments</a> about Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley being past her prime.The
 move quickly turned nasty. While CNN chairman and CEO Chris Licht 
announced, after Lemon had co-hosted the show Monday, that they had <a href="https://twitter.com/CNNPR/status/1650535190568026113" target="_blank">“parted ways,”</a> Lemon characterized it as a firing and said it was surprise to him. “After
 17 years at CNN I would have thought someone in management would have 
the decency to tell me directly,” Lemon said. CNN said that Lemon was 
given the opportunity to meet with management but released a statement 
on Twitter instead.CNN offered no 
public explanation for Lemon’s dismissal. During a February discussion 
on “CNN This Morning” with co-hosts Poppy Harlow and Kaitlan Collins 
about the ages of politicians, he said that the 51-year-old Haley was 
not “in her prime.” A woman, he said, was considered in her prime “in 
her 20s, 30s and maybe her 40s.”Harlow challenged 
Lemon, trying to clarify what he was referencing: “I think we need to 
qualify. Are you talking about prime for childbearing or are you talking
 about prime for being president?”“Don’t shoot the messenger, I’m just saying what the facts are,” Lemon responded.Lemon
 issued a statement the same day saying he regretted his “inartful and 
irrelevant” comments. He was subsequently absent from the show for three
 days, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-tv-nikki-haley-don-lemon-52be979ee7c3b95dbcddedf23683e98c">returning the following week</a> with a tweeted apology but no mention of the episode on air.Haley,
 who had criticized Lemon’s statements as sexist and used the incident 
to fundraise in February, took to Twitter on Monday to call Lemon’s 
ouster “a great day for women everywhere,” linking to the beverage 
sleeves emblazoned with “Past my prime? Hold my beer.”Lemon
 used to host the prime-time “Don Lemon Tonight” but moved when the 
network launched “CNN This Morning” last November, just before the U.S. 
midterm elections, as one of the first major programming moves under 
Licht.

Lemon fired from CNN after divisive morning show run

NEW YORK (AP) — Fox News said Monday it has “agreed to part ways” with Tucker Carlson, its popular and controversial host, less than a week after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fox-news-dominion-lawsuit-trial-trump-2020-0ac71f75acfacc52ea80b3e747fb0afe">settling a lawsuit</a>&nbsp;over the network's 2020 election reporting.

The network said in a press release that the last program of “Tucker Carlson Tonight” aired Friday.

“We thank him for his service to the network as a host and prior to that as a contributor,” the press release from the network said.

Carlson became Fox’s most popular personality after replacing Bill O’Reilly in Fox’s prime-time lineup in 2016. He’s also consistently drawn headline for controversial coverage, including most recently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jan-6-tucker-carlson-capitol-riot-mccarthy-adc245e22f50b076925eb72948062808">airing tapes from the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection</a>&nbsp;to minimize the impact of the deadly attack.

There was no immediate explanation from Fox about why Carlson was leaving. A text message to Carlson seeking comment was not immediately returned.

Fox agreed last week to pay Dominion Voting Systems more than $787 million and acknowledged that some of its reporting following the 2020 election — which allowed former President Donald Trump's aides to amplify false charges of election fraud — was incorrect.

But that reporting mostly concerned other shows, not Carlson’s. His name did come up during the case, primarily because of email and text messages that were revealed as part of the lawsuit.

Carlson and other Fox hosts were caught in private messages doubting their own network's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fox-news-dominion-lawsuit-trial-explainer-trump-fbd401a951905879d837a8860b3bec5e">allegations about Dominion's role</a>&nbsp;in the supposed election fraud, while also being concerned that Fox was losing audience among Trump fans at the time. In some of them, Carlson&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tucker-carlson-fox-news-murdoch-capitol-attack-96c305cf4046aaf373130876940fd06e">privately criticized Trump,</a>&nbsp;saying he hated him passionately.

A few weeks ago, Carlson&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fox-news-dominion-trial-trump-carlson-election-f580413e13d1bfaea1e94827a4f35dc1">devoted his entire show</a>&nbsp;to an interview with Trump.

Carlson was recently named in a lawsuit filed by Abby Grossberg, a Fox News producer fired after claiming that Fox lawyers had pressured her to give misleading testimony in the Dominion lawsuit. Grossberg had gone to work for Carlson after leaving Maria Bartiromo's Fox show.

Her lawsuit says that Grossberg learned “she had merely traded in one overtly misogynistic work environment for an event crueler one — this time, one where unprofessionalism reigned supreme, and the staff’s distaste and disdain for women infiltrated almost every workday decision.”

Fox has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fox-news-dominion-defamation-lawsuit-voting-sexism-9f0b4ec94a19fa68c1205864fef277c5">countered with its own lawsuit,</a>&nbsp;trying to bar Grossberg from disclosing confidential discussions with Fox attorneys and saying in a statement that “her allegations in connection with the Dominion case are baseless.”

“Fox News Tonight” will air in Carlson's 8 p.m. ET prime-time slot, hosted by a rotating array of network personalities, for the time being.

NEW YORK (AP) — Fox News said Monday it has “agreed to part ways” with Tucker Carlson, its popular and controversial host, less than a week after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fox-news-dominion-lawsuit-trial-trump-2020-0ac71f75acfacc52ea80b3e747fb0afe">settling a lawsuit</a>&nbsp;over the network's 2020 election reporting.The network said in a press release that the last program of “Tucker Carlson Tonight” aired Friday.“We thank him for his service to the network as a host and prior to that as a contributor,” the press release from the network said.Carlson became Fox’s most popular personality after replacing Bill O’Reilly in Fox’s prime-time lineup in 2016. He’s also consistently drawn headline for controversial coverage, including most recently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jan-6-tucker-carlson-capitol-riot-mccarthy-adc245e22f50b076925eb72948062808">airing tapes from the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection</a>&nbsp;to minimize the impact of the deadly attack.There was no immediate explanation from Fox about why Carlson was leaving. A text message to Carlson seeking comment was not immediately returned.Fox agreed last week to pay Dominion Voting Systems more than $787 million and acknowledged that some of its reporting following the 2020 election — which allowed former President Donald Trump's aides to amplify false charges of election fraud — was incorrect.But that reporting mostly concerned other shows, not Carlson’s. His name did come up during the case, primarily because of email and text messages that were revealed as part of the lawsuit.Carlson and other Fox hosts were caught in private messages doubting their own network's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fox-news-dominion-lawsuit-trial-explainer-trump-fbd401a951905879d837a8860b3bec5e">allegations about Dominion's role</a>&nbsp;in the supposed election fraud, while also being concerned that Fox was losing audience among Trump fans at the time. In some of them, Carlson&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tucker-carlson-fox-news-murdoch-capitol-attack-96c305cf4046aaf373130876940fd06e">privately criticized Trump,</a>&nbsp;saying he hated him passionately.A few weeks ago, Carlson&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fox-news-dominion-trial-trump-carlson-election-f580413e13d1bfaea1e94827a4f35dc1">devoted his entire show</a>&nbsp;to an interview with Trump.Carlson was recently named in a lawsuit filed by Abby Grossberg, a Fox News producer fired after claiming that Fox lawyers had pressured her to give misleading testimony in the Dominion lawsuit. Grossberg had gone to work for Carlson after leaving Maria Bartiromo's Fox show.Her lawsuit says that Grossberg learned “she had merely traded in one overtly misogynistic work environment for an event crueler one — this time, one where unprofessionalism reigned supreme, and the staff’s distaste and disdain for women infiltrated almost every workday decision.”Fox has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fox-news-dominion-defamation-lawsuit-voting-sexism-9f0b4ec94a19fa68c1205864fef277c5">countered with its own lawsuit,</a>&nbsp;trying to bar Grossberg from disclosing confidential discussions with Fox attorneys and saying in a statement that “her allegations in connection with the Dominion case are baseless.”“Fox News Tonight” will air in Carlson's 8 p.m. ET prime-time slot, hosted by a rotating array of network personalities, for the time being.

Tucker Carlson, Fox News' most popular host, out at network

BRUSSELS (AP) — The guardians of Champagne will let no one take the 
name of the bubbly beverage in vain, not even a U.S. beer behemoth.

For
 years, Miller High Life has used the “Champagne of Beers” slogan. This 
week, that appropriation became impossible to swallow.

At the 
request of the trade body defending the interests of houses and growers 
of the northeastern French sparkling wine, Belgian customs crushed more 
than 2,000 cans of Miller High Life advertised as such.

The Comité
 Champagne asked for the destruction of a shipment of 2,352 cans on the 
grounds that the century-old motto used by the American brewery 
infringes the protected designation of origin “Champagne.”

The 
consignment was intercepted in the Belgian port of Antwerp in early 
February, a spokesperson at the Belgian Customs Administration said on 
Friday, and was destined for Germany.

Molson Coors Beverage Co., 
which owns the Miller High Life brand, does not currently export it to 
the EU, and Belgian customs declined to say who had ordered the beers.

The buyer in Germany “was informed and did not contest the decision,” the trade organization said in a statement.

Frederick
 Miller, a German immigrant to the US, founded the Miller Brewing 
Company in the 1850s. Miller High Life, its oldest brand, was launched 
as its flagship in 1903.

According to the Milwaukee-based brand’s 
website, the company started to use the “Champagne of Bottle Beers” 
nickname three years later. It was shortened to “The Champagne of Beers”
 in 1969. The beer has also been available in champagne-style 
750-milliliter bottles during festive seasons.

“With its elegant, 
clear-glass bottle and crisp taste, Miller High Life has proudly worn 
the nickname ‘The Champagne of Beers’ for almost 120 years,” Molson 
Coors Beverage Co. said in a statement to The Associated Press.

No
 matter how popular the slogan is in the United States, it is 
incompatible with European Union rules which make clear that goods 
infringing a protected designation of origin can be treated as 
counterfeit.

The 27-nation bloc has a system of protected 
geographical designations created to guarantee the true origin and 
quality of artisanal food, wine and spirits, and protect them from 
imitation. That market is worth nearly <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_20_683">75 billion euros ($87 billion) annually</a> — half of it in wines, according to a 2020 study by the EU's executive arm.

Charles
 Goemaere, the managing director of the Comité Champagne, said the 
destruction of the beers "confirms the importance that the European 
Union attaches to designations of origin and rewards the determination 
of the Champagne producers to protect their designation.”

Molson Coors Beverage Co. said it “respects local restrictions” around the word Champagne.

“But
 we remain proud of Miller High Life, its nickname and its Milwaukee, 
Wisconsin provenance,” the company said. “We invite our friends in 
Europe to the U.S. any time to toast the High Life together.”

Belgian
 customs said the destruction of the cans was paid for by the Comité 
Champagne. According to their joint statement, it was carried out “with 
the utmost respect for environmental concerns by ensuring that the 
entire batch, both contents and container, was recycled in an 
environmentally responsible manner.”

BRUSSELS (AP) — The guardians of Champagne will let no one take the 
name of the bubbly beverage in vain, not even a U.S. beer behemoth.For
 years, Miller High Life has used the “Champagne of Beers” slogan. This 
week, that appropriation became impossible to swallow.At the 
request of the trade body defending the interests of houses and growers 
of the northeastern French sparkling wine, Belgian customs crushed more 
than 2,000 cans of Miller High Life advertised as such.The Comité
 Champagne asked for the destruction of a shipment of 2,352 cans on the 
grounds that the century-old motto used by the American brewery 
infringes the protected designation of origin “Champagne.”The 
consignment was intercepted in the Belgian port of Antwerp in early 
February, a spokesperson at the Belgian Customs Administration said on 
Friday, and was destined for Germany.Molson Coors Beverage Co., 
which owns the Miller High Life brand, does not currently export it to 
the EU, and Belgian customs declined to say who had ordered the beers.The buyer in Germany “was informed and did not contest the decision,” the trade organization said in a statement.Frederick
 Miller, a German immigrant to the US, founded the Miller Brewing 
Company in the 1850s. Miller High Life, its oldest brand, was launched 
as its flagship in 1903.According to the Milwaukee-based brand’s 
website, the company started to use the “Champagne of Bottle Beers” 
nickname three years later. It was shortened to “The Champagne of Beers”
 in 1969. The beer has also been available in champagne-style 
750-milliliter bottles during festive seasons.“With its elegant, 
clear-glass bottle and crisp taste, Miller High Life has proudly worn 
the nickname ‘The Champagne of Beers’ for almost 120 years,” Molson 
Coors Beverage Co. said in a statement to The Associated Press.No
 matter how popular the slogan is in the United States, it is 
incompatible with European Union rules which make clear that goods 
infringing a protected designation of origin can be treated as 
counterfeit.The 27-nation bloc has a system of protected 
geographical designations created to guarantee the true origin and 
quality of artisanal food, wine and spirits, and protect them from 
imitation. That market is worth nearly <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_20_683">75 billion euros ($87 billion) annually</a> — half of it in wines, according to a 2020 study by the EU's executive arm.Charles
 Goemaere, the managing director of the Comité Champagne, said the 
destruction of the beers "confirms the importance that the European 
Union attaches to designations of origin and rewards the determination 
of the Champagne producers to protect their designation.”Molson Coors Beverage Co. said it “respects local restrictions” around the word Champagne.“But
 we remain proud of Miller High Life, its nickname and its Milwaukee, 
Wisconsin provenance,” the company said. “We invite our friends in 
Europe to the U.S. any time to toast the High Life together.”Belgian
 customs said the destruction of the cans was paid for by the Comité 
Champagne. According to their joint statement, it was carried out “with 
the utmost respect for environmental concerns by ensuring that the 
entire batch, both contents and container, was recycled in an 
environmentally responsible manner.”

Champagne and 'Champagne of Beers' spat bubbles over

By BARBARA ORTUTAY AP Technology Writer

Anyone in the U.S. who has had a Facebook account at any time since May 24, 2007, can now <a href="https://facebookuserprivacysettlement.com/#submit-claim">apply for their share</a> of a $725 million privacy settlement that parent company <a href="https://apnews.com/article/steve-bannon-technology-business-social-media-donald-trump-13d01e05b42398fb49aced1a1e8dcc23">Meta has agreed to pay</a>.

Meta is paying to settle a lawsuit alleging the world’s largest social media platform <a href="https://apnews.com/article/data-mining-north-america-ap-top-news-mark-zuckerberg-international-news-c8f615be9523421998b4fcc16374ff37">allowed millions of its users’ personal information</a> to be fed to Cambridge Analytica, a firm that supported Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign.

It's
 not clear how much money individual users will receive. The larger the 
number of people submitting valid claims, the smaller each payment will 
be since the money has to be divided among them.

To apply for the settlement, users can <a href="https://facebookuserprivacysettlement.com/#submit-claim">fill out a form</a> and submit it online, or print it out and mail it.

The
 case sprang from 2018 revelations that Cambridge Analytica, a firm with
 ties to Trump political strategist Steve Bannon, had paid a Facebook 
app developer for access to the personal information of about 87 million
 users of the platform. That data was then used to target U.S. voters 
during the 2016 campaign that culminated in Trump’s election as the 45th
 president.

Uproar over the revelations led to a contrite Zuckerberg being <a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-ap-top-news-facebook-privacy-scandal--politics-mark-zuckerberg-75f8ec6489b340d9a1ce723502fe0ad2">grilled by U.S. lawmakers</a> and spurred calls for people to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-ap-top-news-relationships-facebook-privacy-scandal--ca-state-wire-18ecd2abaa334adcaabb9ea79c542a73">delete their Facebook accounts</a>.

Facebook’s
 growth has stalled as more people connect and entertain themselves on 
rival services such as TikTok, but the social network still boasts more 
than 2 billion users worldwide, including an estimated 250 million in 
the U.S.

By BARBARA ORTUTAY AP Technology WriterAnyone in the U.S. who has had a Facebook account at any time since May 24, 2007, can now <a href="https://facebookuserprivacysettlement.com/#submit-claim">apply for their share</a> of a $725 million privacy settlement that parent company <a href="https://apnews.com/article/steve-bannon-technology-business-social-media-donald-trump-13d01e05b42398fb49aced1a1e8dcc23">Meta has agreed to pay</a>.Meta is paying to settle a lawsuit alleging the world’s largest social media platform <a href="https://apnews.com/article/data-mining-north-america-ap-top-news-mark-zuckerberg-international-news-c8f615be9523421998b4fcc16374ff37">allowed millions of its users’ personal information</a> to be fed to Cambridge Analytica, a firm that supported Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign.It's
 not clear how much money individual users will receive. The larger the 
number of people submitting valid claims, the smaller each payment will 
be since the money has to be divided among them.To apply for the settlement, users can <a href="https://facebookuserprivacysettlement.com/#submit-claim">fill out a form</a> and submit it online, or print it out and mail it.The
 case sprang from 2018 revelations that Cambridge Analytica, a firm with
 ties to Trump political strategist Steve Bannon, had paid a Facebook 
app developer for access to the personal information of about 87 million
 users of the platform. That data was then used to target U.S. voters 
during the 2016 campaign that culminated in Trump’s election as the 45th
 president.Uproar over the revelations led to a contrite Zuckerberg being <a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-ap-top-news-facebook-privacy-scandal--politics-mark-zuckerberg-75f8ec6489b340d9a1ce723502fe0ad2">grilled by U.S. lawmakers</a> and spurred calls for people to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-ap-top-news-relationships-facebook-privacy-scandal--ca-state-wire-18ecd2abaa334adcaabb9ea79c542a73">delete their Facebook accounts</a>.Facebook’s
 growth has stalled as more people connect and entertain themselves on 
rival services such as TikTok, but the social network still boasts more 
than 2 billion users worldwide, including an estimated 250 million in 
the U.S.

Are you a Facebook user? You could get some settlement cash

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today suggested taxpayers 
who filed or are about to file their 2022 tax return use the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/tax-withholding-estimator">Tax Withholding Estimator</a> to help update the amount of tax to have taken out of their 2023 pay.

The IRS says now is a good time to use this online tool. The Tax 
Withholding Estimator, also available in Spanish, can help people adjust
 how much is withheld and could put more cash in their pocket or help 
them avoid a tax bill for 2023.

The Tax Withholding Estimator offers workers, retirees and the 
self-employed a step-by-step guide to effectively tailor the amount of 
income tax they have withheld from wages, pension and other income. It's
 especially useful after a major life change such as marriage, divorce, 
home purchase, the birth or adoption of a child or a big change in 
income.

For employees, withholding is the amount of federal income tax taken 
out of their paycheck. Workers can use the results from the Tax 
Withholding Estimator to determine if they should complete a new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-w-4">Form W-4</a> and submit it to their employer. For example, checking withholding can:

The Tax Withholding Estimator's results are only as accurate as the 
information entered. To help prepare, the IRS recommends taxpayers 
gather:

Income taxes must generally be paid as taxpayers earn or receive 
income throughout the year, through either withholding or estimated tax 
payments. If the amount of income tax withheld from one's salary or 
pension is not enough, or if they receive other types of income such as 
interest, dividends, alimony, self-employment income, capital gains, 
prizes and awards, they may need to make estimated tax payments.

In 2023, taxpayers who receive more than $600 in income from 
third-party settlement organizations, including popular payment apps, 
may receive <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/understanding-your-form-1099-k">Form 1099-Ks</a>. Individual taxpayers can use the IRS online <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/am-i-required-to-make-estimated-tax-payments">Interactive Tax Assistant</a> to see if they're required to pay estimated taxes. <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/how-long-should-i-keep-records">Good recordkeeping is key</a>.

People with complex tax situations should instead use the instructions in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-505">Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax</a>.
 This includes taxpayers who owe alternative minimum tax or certain 
other taxes and people with long-term capital gains or qualified 
dividends.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="IRS&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>IRS&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today suggested taxpayers 
who filed or are about to file their 2022 tax return use the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/tax-withholding-estimator">Tax Withholding Estimator</a> to help update the amount of tax to have taken out of their 2023 pay.The IRS says now is a good time to use this online tool. The Tax 
Withholding Estimator, also available in Spanish, can help people adjust
 how much is withheld and could put more cash in their pocket or help 
them avoid a tax bill for 2023.The Tax Withholding Estimator offers workers, retirees and the 
self-employed a step-by-step guide to effectively tailor the amount of 
income tax they have withheld from wages, pension and other income. It's
 especially useful after a major life change such as marriage, divorce, 
home purchase, the birth or adoption of a child or a big change in 
income.<h2>Benefits of using the Estimator</h2>For employees, withholding is the amount of federal income tax taken 
out of their paycheck. Workers can use the results from the Tax 
Withholding Estimator to determine if they should complete a new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-w-4">Form W-4</a> and submit it to their employer. For example, checking withholding can:<ul>
 <li>Ensure the right amount of tax is withheld and prevent an unexpected tax bill or penalty at tax time.</li><li>Determine whether to have less tax withheld from each paycheck, boosting take-home pay and reducing refunds at tax time.</li>
 </ul><h2>What records are needed?</h2>The Tax Withholding Estimator's results are only as accurate as the 
information entered. To help prepare, the IRS recommends taxpayers 
gather:<ul>
 <li>Their most recent pay statements and, if married, statements for their spouse.</li><li>Information for other sources of income.</li><li>Their most recent income tax return.</li>
 </ul><h2>Withholding or estimated payments?</h2>Income taxes must generally be paid as taxpayers earn or receive 
income throughout the year, through either withholding or estimated tax 
payments. If the amount of income tax withheld from one's salary or 
pension is not enough, or if they receive other types of income such as 
interest, dividends, alimony, self-employment income, capital gains, 
prizes and awards, they may need to make estimated tax payments.In 2023, taxpayers who receive more than $600 in income from 
third-party settlement organizations, including popular payment apps, 
may receive <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/understanding-your-form-1099-k">Form 1099-Ks</a>. Individual taxpayers can use the IRS online <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/am-i-required-to-make-estimated-tax-payments">Interactive Tax Assistant</a> to see if they're required to pay estimated taxes. <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/how-long-should-i-keep-records">Good recordkeeping is key</a>.People with complex tax situations should instead use the instructions in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-505">Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax</a>.
 This includes taxpayers who owe alternative minimum tax or certain 
other taxes and people with long-term capital gains or qualified 
dividends.<h2>More information</h2><ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/tax-withholding-estimator-faqs">Tax Withholding Estimator FAQs</a></li><li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/paycheck-checkup">Paycheck Checkup</a></li>
 </ul>

Owe on taxes this season? IRS tool will get you ready for 2024

If you're relying upon Facebook for your local news, you are missing out!

Click <a href="https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/188842?hl=en&amp;co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid">HERE</a> for instructions on how to bookmark Post on your Android device.

Click <a href="https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/bookmark-favorite-webpages-iph42ab2f3a7/ios">HERE</a> for instructions on how to bookmark Post on your Apple device.

Or download our native app on Google Play or iTunes!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you're relying upon Facebook for your local news, you are missing out!Click <a href="https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/188842?hl=en&amp;co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid">HERE</a> for instructions on how to bookmark Post on your Android device.Click <a href="https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/bookmark-favorite-webpages-iph42ab2f3a7/ios">HERE</a> for instructions on how to bookmark Post on your Apple device.Or download our native app on Google Play or iTunes!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667836816364.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

How to bookmark a Post site on your mobile device

WASHINGTON — As the tax deadline draws near, the Internal Revenue 
Service reminds taxpayers who need more time to file that getting an 
extension is quick and easy. An extension gives taxpayers an automatic 
six more months – until Oct. 16 this year – to file their tax return.

One of the easiest ways to get an extension is by using the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> program.

While an extension allows for extra time to gather, prepare and file 
paperwork, it's important to remember that an extension of time to file 
taxes is not an extension of time to pay.

Taxpayers who owe taxes should pay their entire obligation, or as 
much as they can, by the normal deadline to avoid penalties and 
interest. The deadline this year is April 18 because the regular date of
 April 15 falls on a weekend, followed by a holiday in the District of 
Columbia.

Use IRS Free File to get an extension online

A quick and easy way to get an extension is through IRS Free File on 
IRS.gov. All individual tax filers, regardless of income, can 
electronically request an extension on <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4868.pdf">Form 4868</a>PDF by using the IRS Free File program partner <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-everyone-can-file-an-extension-for-free">software</a> on IRS.gov. To get the extension, taxpayers must estimate their tax liability on this form and file it by April 18.

Other fast, free and easy ways to get an extension include using IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System</a> or by paying with a <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-taxes-by-credit-or-debit-card">credit or debit card or digital wallet</a>.
 There's no need to file a separate Form 4868 extension request when 
making an electronic payment and indicating it's for an extension. The 
IRS will automatically count it as an extension.

The IRS reminds taxpayers that payments are still due by the original
 deadline even if they request an extension of time to file a tax 
return. Taxpayers should file even if they can't pay the full amount.

By filing either a return on time or requesting an extension by the 
April 18 filing deadline, they'll avoid the late-filing penalty, which 
can be 10 times as costly as the penalty for not paying.

Taxpayers who pay as much as they can by the due date, reduce the 
overall amount subject to penalty and interest charges. The interest 
rate for an individual's unpaid taxes is currently 7%, compounded daily.
 The late-filing penalty is generally 5% per month and the late-payment 
penalty is normally 0.5% per month, both of which max out at 25%.

The IRS will work with taxpayers who cannot pay the full amount of 
tax they owe. Other options to pay, such as getting a loan or paying by 
credit card, may help resolve a tax debt. Most people can set up a <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">payment plan</a> on IRS.gov to pay off their balance over time.

Certain eligible taxpayers get more time to file without having to ask for extensions:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869881583.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — As the tax deadline draws near, the Internal Revenue 
Service reminds taxpayers who need more time to file that getting an 
extension is quick and easy. An extension gives taxpayers an automatic 
six more months – until Oct. 16 this year – to file their tax return.One of the easiest ways to get an extension is by using the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> program.While an extension allows for extra time to gather, prepare and file 
paperwork, it's important to remember that an extension of time to file 
taxes is not an extension of time to pay.Taxpayers who owe taxes should pay their entire obligation, or as 
much as they can, by the normal deadline to avoid penalties and 
interest. The deadline this year is April 18 because the regular date of
 April 15 falls on a weekend, followed by a holiday in the District of 
Columbia.<h2>Use IRS Free File to get an extension online</h2>A quick and easy way to get an extension is through IRS Free File on 
IRS.gov. All individual tax filers, regardless of income, can 
electronically request an extension on <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4868.pdf">Form 4868</a>PDF by using the IRS Free File program partner <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-everyone-can-file-an-extension-for-free">software</a> on IRS.gov. To get the extension, taxpayers must estimate their tax liability on this form and file it by April 18.<h2>Get an extension when making a payment</h2>Other fast, free and easy ways to get an extension include using IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System</a> or by paying with a <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-taxes-by-credit-or-debit-card">credit or debit card or digital wallet</a>.
 There's no need to file a separate Form 4868 extension request when 
making an electronic payment and indicating it's for an extension. The 
IRS will automatically count it as an extension.<h2>Important reminders</h2>The IRS reminds taxpayers that payments are still due by the original
 deadline even if they request an extension of time to file a tax 
return. Taxpayers should file even if they can't pay the full amount.By filing either a return on time or requesting an extension by the 
April 18 filing deadline, they'll avoid the late-filing penalty, which 
can be 10 times as costly as the penalty for not paying.Taxpayers who pay as much as they can by the due date, reduce the 
overall amount subject to penalty and interest charges. The interest 
rate for an individual's unpaid taxes is currently 7%, compounded daily.
 The late-filing penalty is generally 5% per month and the late-payment 
penalty is normally 0.5% per month, both of which max out at 25%.The IRS will work with taxpayers who cannot pay the full amount of 
tax they owe. Other options to pay, such as getting a loan or paying by 
credit card, may help resolve a tax debt. Most people can set up a <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">payment plan</a> on IRS.gov to pay off their balance over time.<h2>Some taxpayers get automatic extensions</h2>Certain eligible taxpayers get more time to file without having to ask for extensions:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/us-citizens-and-resident-aliens-abroad">U.S. citizens and resident aliens</a> who live and work outside of the United States and Puerto Rico get an <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/us-citizens-and-resident-aliens-abroad-automatic-2-month-extension-of-time-to-file">automatic two-month</a>
 extension to file their tax returns. They have until June 15 to file. 
However, tax payments are still due April 18 or interest will be 
charged.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Members of the military on duty outside the United States 
and Puerto Rico also receive an automatic two-month extension to file. 
Those serving in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/military/combat-zones">combat zones</a> have up to 180 days after they leave the combat zone to file returns and pay any taxes due. Details are available in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p3.pdf">Publication 3, Armed Forces' Tax Guide</a>PDF.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>When the U.S. president makes a disaster area declaration, 
the IRS can postpone certain taxpayer deadlines for residents and 
businesses in the affected area. Taxpayers in certain disaster areas do 
not need to submit an extension electronically or on paper. People can 
find information on the most recent tax relief for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations">disaster situations</a> on the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/extension-of-time-to-file-your-tax-return">Extension of Time To File Your Tax Return</a> page.</li>
 </ul>

Need more time? Here's the easiest way to get a tax return extension

By TOM KRISHER AP Auto Writer

DETROIT — Ten electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles will be eligible for a 
$7,500 U.S. tax credit, while another seven could get $3,750 under new 
federal rules that go into effect on Tuesday.

But under the Treasury Department rules and other provisions of last year's <a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-signs-climate-health-bill-9a7f349fa7b07387d20ad603f2ff4875">Inflation Reduction Act</a>, most of the more than 60 electric or plug-in hybrids on sale in the U.S. won't get any tax credits.

That could slow acceptance of electric vehicles and could <a href="https://apnews.com/article/electric-vehicles-tax-credit-7500-c562cb2d3509e93dc81d3b7d395725af">delay reaching President Joe Biden's ambitious goal</a> that half of new passenger vehicles sold in the U.S. run on electricity by 2030.

The
 new rules, which govern how much battery minerals and parts can come 
from countries that don't have free trade agreements with the U.S., 
bumped nine vehicles off the tax credit eligibility list that went into 
effect Jan. 1.

The 10 vehicles eligible for the full $7,500 credit
 are Tesla's Model 3 Performance model, the Tesla Model Y, Ford's F-150 
Lightning pickup, the Chrysler Pacifica and the Lincoln Aviator Grand 
Touring plug-in hybrids. Also, General Motors will have five models 
eligible this year including its top-selling Chevrolet Bolt and Bolt 
EUV, as well as the Cadillac Lyriq, the Chevrolet Silverado electric 
pickup and the upcoming Chevy Equinox small SUV.

The seven models 
that could get a $3,750 credit include the Jeep Wrangler and Grand 
Cherokee plug-ins, Ford's Mustang Mach-E SUV, Escape plug-in and 
E-Transit electric van, the Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring plug-in and 
the standard range rear-wheel-drive version of Tesla's Model 3.

Consumers can check to see if the EV they're considering is eligible for a credit at <a href="https://fueleconomy.gov/feg/tax2023.shtml">www.fueleconomy.gov</a>.

To
 be eligible, electric vehicles or plug-ins have to be manufactured in 
North America. SUVs, vans and trucks can't have a sticker price greater 
than $80,000, while cars can't sticker for more than $55,000. There also
 are income limits for buyers.

The Treasury Department says the 
new list shows that families who want to buy an electric or plug-in 
vehicle “will continue to have a number of options to receive a full or 
partial tax credit in the near term" under rules designed to build 
electric vehicle production and a supply chain in the U.S.

The 
reduction in eligible EVs also could conflict with the administration's 
proposed strict new automobile pollution limits announced last week. The
 new standards would require up to two-thirds of new vehicles sold in 
the U.S. to be electric by 2032. That’s a nearly tenfold increase over 
current electric vehicle sales.

Many of the vehicles that aren't 
eligible for the credit are made outside of North America, but their 
manufacturers are building assembly and battery plants in the U.S., and 
more vehicles will become eligible.

Some auto industry analysts 
say that while $7,500 would be enough to entice people away from 
internal combustion vehicles, a $3,750 tax credit might not be enough to
 offset the average U.S. new EV price.

Kelley Blue Book says the 
average U.S. new EV costs about $58,600, nearly $10,000 more than the 
average new vehicle price. To be sure, average EV prices are falling as 
more people buy less-expensive models. The average EV price was $63,500 a
 year ago.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681753178354.jpg" alt="Ten electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles will be eligible for a $7,500 U.S. tax credit, while another seven could get $3,750 under new federal rules that go into effect on Tuesday. Pixabay photo" />
 <figcaption>Ten electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles will be eligible for a $7,500 U.S. tax credit, while another seven could get $3,750 under new federal rules that go into effect on Tuesday. Pixabay photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOM KRISHER AP Auto WriterDETROIT — Ten electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles will be eligible for a 
$7,500 U.S. tax credit, while another seven could get $3,750 under new 
federal rules that go into effect on Tuesday.But under the Treasury Department rules and other provisions of last year's <a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-signs-climate-health-bill-9a7f349fa7b07387d20ad603f2ff4875">Inflation Reduction Act</a>, most of the more than 60 electric or plug-in hybrids on sale in the U.S. won't get any tax credits.That could slow acceptance of electric vehicles and could <a href="https://apnews.com/article/electric-vehicles-tax-credit-7500-c562cb2d3509e93dc81d3b7d395725af">delay reaching President Joe Biden's ambitious goal</a> that half of new passenger vehicles sold in the U.S. run on electricity by 2030.The
 new rules, which govern how much battery minerals and parts can come 
from countries that don't have free trade agreements with the U.S., 
bumped nine vehicles off the tax credit eligibility list that went into 
effect Jan. 1.The 10 vehicles eligible for the full $7,500 credit
 are Tesla's Model 3 Performance model, the Tesla Model Y, Ford's F-150 
Lightning pickup, the Chrysler Pacifica and the Lincoln Aviator Grand 
Touring plug-in hybrids. Also, General Motors will have five models 
eligible this year including its top-selling Chevrolet Bolt and Bolt 
EUV, as well as the Cadillac Lyriq, the Chevrolet Silverado electric 
pickup and the upcoming Chevy Equinox small SUV.The seven models 
that could get a $3,750 credit include the Jeep Wrangler and Grand 
Cherokee plug-ins, Ford's Mustang Mach-E SUV, Escape plug-in and 
E-Transit electric van, the Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring plug-in and 
the standard range rear-wheel-drive version of Tesla's Model 3.Consumers can check to see if the EV they're considering is eligible for a credit at <a href="https://fueleconomy.gov/feg/tax2023.shtml">www.fueleconomy.gov</a>.To
 be eligible, electric vehicles or plug-ins have to be manufactured in 
North America. SUVs, vans and trucks can't have a sticker price greater 
than $80,000, while cars can't sticker for more than $55,000. There also
 are income limits for buyers.The Treasury Department says the 
new list shows that families who want to buy an electric or plug-in 
vehicle “will continue to have a number of options to receive a full or 
partial tax credit in the near term" under rules designed to build 
electric vehicle production and a supply chain in the U.S.The 
reduction in eligible EVs also could conflict with the administration's 
proposed strict new automobile pollution limits announced last week. The
 new standards would require up to two-thirds of new vehicles sold in 
the U.S. to be electric by 2032. That’s a nearly tenfold increase over 
current electric vehicle sales.Many of the vehicles that aren't 
eligible for the credit are made outside of North America, but their 
manufacturers are building assembly and battery plants in the U.S., and 
more vehicles will become eligible.Some auto industry analysts 
say that while $7,500 would be enough to entice people away from 
internal combustion vehicles, a $3,750 tax credit might not be enough to
 offset the average U.S. new EV price.Kelley Blue Book says the 
average U.S. new EV costs about $58,600, nearly $10,000 more than the 
average new vehicle price. To be sure, average EV prices are falling as 
more people buy less-expensive models. The average EV price was $63,500 a
 year ago.Jeff Schuster, executive vice president of LMC 
Automotive and Global Data, said half of the full tax credit isn’t 
enough. “You’re shrinking the market essentially by the vehicles not 
being affordable,” he said, adding that the average combustion engine 
vehicle isn’t affordable either.The big issue in the rules that 
are effective Tuesday are limits on the percentage of battery parts and 
minerals that come from countries that don’t have free trade or mineral 
agreements with the United States.This year, at least 40% of the 
value of battery minerals must be mined, processed or recycled in the 
U.S. or countries with which it has trade deals. That rises 10% every 
year until it hits 80% after 2026.Also, at least 50% of the value
 of battery parts must be manufactured or assembled in North America 
this year. That requirement rises to 60% next year and in 2025 and jumps
 10% each year until it hits 100% after 2028.In addition to the 
price limits, there also are income limits aimed to stop wealthier 
people from getting credits. Buyers cannot have an adjusted gross annual
 income above $150,000 if single, $300,000 if filing jointly and 
$225,000 if head of a household.In addition, starting in 2025, 
battery minerals cannot come from a “foreign entity of concern,” mainly 
China and Russia. Battery parts cannot be sourced in those countries 
starting in 2024; minerals can’t come from those countries in 2025.The Biden administration said rules governing that requirement are in the works.Even
 though the rules are effective Tuesday, the Biden administration is 
taking public comments, and they can be modified later, including the 
addition of countries that negotiate trade agreements with the U.S.

Misc