6 Sep 2024

Tommies hope to bounce back against quality foe Northern Iowa after falling flat in opener

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After coming up short while blocking, tackling, rushing and passing last week in a one-sided loss to Division II Sioux Falls, the focus for the University of St. Thomas football team on Saturday at O’Shaughnessy Stadium will be rebounding.

And, after falling flat in the season opener in what was considered one of the more winnable games on the schedule, the Tommies will have to turn things around against its toughest opponent of the season in the Northern Iowa Panthers.

“Certainly, if you ever believed the biggest growth is between 1 and 2 — Week 1, Week 2, Year 1, Year 2 — we need to look in that direction now,” Tommies head coach Glenn Caruso said. “Week 1, there were many, many facets where … it’s not it.

“We played the worst opening game I’ve seen us play in nearly two decades.”

The biggest disappointment for Caruso was the offense’s inability to run the football. The Tommies rushed for 22 yards on 16 attempts. Caruso said the ineffectiveness was the result of physical as well as mental mistakes.

“It was five-yard penalties that put you in third and long instead of third and medium,” he said. “It was lack of consistent first-down productivity. And some of it was (having) new guys in new roles. But we had enough guys — three returning starters — where it shouldn’t have been that much of an issue. But it was.”

Caruso considers the offensive line to be the strength of the team, so the performance was “a shock.”

“We’ve had games in that past where if we hadn’t started well we were able to find a way to get that run game going,” he said.

Caruso said there will be a number of changes to the starting lineup this week. One of them could be at quarterback, where Tak Tateoka started but was replaced at halftime by Michael Rostberg. The quarterback play will have to improve if the Tommies are to pull off the upset.

“When we’re at our best, we are balanced, and the pass game and run game are in unison,” Caruso said. “That’s the goal for this week. It’s a tall task against a really good football team.”

The Tommies’ confidence surely took a hit in the deflating loss. They won’t have a shot against the Panthers if they don’t get it back where it needs to be.

“It’s belief in being able to do those things routinely that we need to be good at,” Caruso said. “Although that was demonstrated fairly well throughout camp, it certainly was no demonstrated well last Thursday night.”

Prior to the season, the thought was that the Tommies would roll to a season-opening win before setting their sights on being more competitive against the Panthers than they were the first time the two teams met, a 44-3 Northern Iowa victory in 2021. The second part of the equation is still possible despite the opening loss.

“One of the benefits of (playing) this team that I really appreciate is that we’re playing them three years apart,” Caruso said. “Three years ago it was the best team that the University of St. Thomas had played to that point, ands they handled us very, very well.

“Now we get to see if there has been the growth that you expect there to be, and what that looks like.”

Northern Iowa opened its season with a 35-7 win over Valparaiso.

“All their guys can run really well, it doesn’t matter if they’re a 6-foot-2, 220-pound corner, a 6-3 wide receiver or a 6-6 defensive lineman, they can run,” Caruso said. “They’re supremely talented.”

Running back and offensive line are the Panthers’ strength on offense, Caruso said, and on defense he believes their linebacking group could be the best the Tommies have ever faced. Caruso is counting on his players being of sound body — and sound mind.

“Mentally, we have a pretty tough team, and that’s because of the culture over many, many years,” he said. “We’re fortunate to be able to withstand shortcomings and still have belief that if you do the right thing long enough, the right things happen.

“I’m proud of our guys; I think they’re focused. I think the fact that we have a great opponent coming in here is a good thing for us to see.”

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6 Sep 2024

Judge gives US regulators until December to propose penalties for Google’s illegal search monopoly

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By MICHAEL LIEDTKE

A federal judge on Friday gave the U.S. Justice Department until the end of the year to outline how Google should be punished for illegally monopolizing the internet search market and then prepare to present its case for imposing the penalties next spring.

The loose-ended timeline sketched out by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta came during the first court hearing since he branded Google as a ruthless monopolist in a landmark ruling issued last month.

Mehta’s decision triggered the need for another phase of the legal process to determine how Google should be penalized for years of misconduct and forced to make other changes to prevent potential future abuses by the dominant search engine that’s the foundation of its internet empire.

Attorneys for the Justice Department and Google were unable to reach a consensus on how the time frame for the penalty phase should unfold in the weeks leading up to Friday’s hearing in Washington D.C., prompting Mehta to steer them down the road that he hopes will result in a decision on the punishment before Labor Day next year.

To make that happen, Mehta indicated he would like the trial in the penalty phase to happen next spring. The judge said March and April look like the best months on his court calendar.

If Mehta’s timeline pans out, a ruling on Google’s antitrust penalties would come nearly five years after the Justice Department filed the lawsuit that led to a 10-week antitrust trial last autumn. That’s similar to the timeline Microsoft experienced in the late 1990s when regulators targeted them for its misconduct in the personal computer market.

The Justice Department hasn’t yet given any inkling on how severely Google should be punished. The most likely targets are the long-running deals that Google has lined up with Apple, Samsung, and other tech companies to make its search engine the default option on smartphones and web browsers.

In return for the guaranteed search traffic, Google has been paying its partners more than $25 billion annually — with most of that money going to Apple for the prized position on the iPhone.

In a more drastic scenario, the Justice Department could seek to force Google to surrender parts of its business, including the Chrome web browser and Android software that powers most of the world’s smartphones because both of those also lock in search traffic.

In Friday’s hearing, Justice Department lawyers said they need ample time to come up with a comprehensive proposal that will also consider how Google has started to deploy artificial intelligence in its search results and how that technology could upend the market.

Google’s lawyers told the judge they hope the Justice Department proposes a realistic list of penalties that address the issues in the judge’s ruling rather than submit extreme measures that amount to “political grandstanding.”

Mehta gave the two sides until Sept. 13 to file a proposed timeline that includes the Justice Department disclosing its proposed punishment before 2025.

6 Sep 2024

The best mop and bucket sets to keep your floors shining

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Which mop and bucket set is best?

If you have hard floors, you need a mop to keep them clean from debris, dirt, spills and other grime. But cleaning the floors is much easier with a mop and bucket set since these tools are convenient, portable and highly effective. The best set is the O-Cedar Easywring Microfiber Spin Mop and Bucket since it’s easy to operate and can tackle any mess.

This article was reviewed and approved by Ketia Daniel, the BestReviews Cleaning Expert.

What to know before you buy a mop and bucket set

Floor type

Some sets are designed to handle commercial cleaning, while others are best for smaller areas such as a home kitchen or bathroom. Along with this, the type of floor you have matters when choosing a set. Most people have laminate, porcelain tile, wood or ceramic flooring.

If, for instance, you have wood flooring, the bucket should easily wring out the mop, so there’s minimal chance of water damage. On the other hand, if you have porcelain tile or ceramic flooring, a little extra water won’t cause much or any damage.

At the same time, if your home is primarily carpet, a smaller set will do. But if you mostly have hard floors, then you need a larger set.

Whatever the case, make sure you sweep the area with a broom before mopping to pick up any noticeable debris. This will make cleaning much easier.

Mop type

There are several types of mops, each with its own purpose. These include:

Cut-end mops or conventional string mops: These have a bunch of strings at the end and are generally inexpensive. Because of the strings, though, they tend to trap debris and dirt. This makes it difficult to keep them clean.
Looped-end mop: This type is similar to the conventional mop, but it’s more durable and, depending on the material, machine-washable.
Flat mops: Usually rectangular and narrow in shape, some flat mops feature a compartment that can store a cleaning solution. These mops also often come with replaceable or washable cleaning pads.
Spin mops: When combined with the right bucket, these make the process of wringing out water much easier, making them a great choice for those with wrist issues. They come with pads and can be washed after use, making them ideal for long-term use.

Bucket features

Most traditional buckets have one main compartment that contains the water or cleaning solution used to clean the floor. These models don’t have any bonus features or systems to make mopping easier, though they usually come with a carrying handle.

If you want something more modern, there are plenty of options. Some come with wheels, which is convenient for cleaning large areas. Most have a handle so you can carry the mop and bucket over carpeted areas or stairs.

Many buckets come with a wringer, a built-in system that keeps the mop head damp but removes excess water or dirt. These usually work by pressing a pedal or pushing and pulling a lever.

More complex buckets come with two or more sections, one for clean water and another for dirty water. To use these, use the clean water or solution on the floor, then wring out the used mop in the other section.

If you have a flat mop, you don’t need a bucket with a wringer. Instead, choose one that features separate compartments for storing new and used mop pads.

Finally, most buckets have a spout or narrow rim at one end, so you can empty out the contents without causing a mess.

What to look for in a quality mop and bucket set

Size

The size of the mop and bucket set affects its portability and weight, but it also influences where it can be stored.

For example, buckets with a larger capacity are often difficult to move around when filled because they’re heavy, and the liquid inside could easily slosh around.

Most buckets are measured in gallons or quarts, with a common size being 5 gallons. Some have measurements on the inside, which is convenient for anyone wanting to measure their cleaning solution and water directly in the bucket.

Mops vary in length and size based on the type you get. Some are extendible, which makes them ideal for taller people or those who don’t want to bend over while cleaning.

If you don’t have much storage space, get a mop with a removable mop head. That way, you can store each piece separately.

Material

The materials used in the mop and bucket affect the overall durability. Most modern sets combine plastic and metal, especially in the bucket and mop handle.

Consider the material of the wringer, too. Plastic ones are cheaper but aren’t as sturdy and could start to corrode over time. Stainless steel wringers are more reliable and resistant to water damage.

Mop heads are made of yarn, sponge, microfiber or cotton. Some materials, such as cotton, are usually machine-safe and good at absorbing water and trapping debris. Before buying a mop head, check the label to see if there are washing instructions.

Color

When purchasing a set, expect the mop and bucket to be the same color.

The aesthetic might not matter much for home use. But if you need it for commercial reasons, the colors play a more important role.

By getting a color-coded mop set, you can prevent cross-contamination in the environment, such as at a restaurant. The common system uses the following colors:

Red for restrooms and similar facilities
Yellow for gyms or some laboratories
Blue for all-purpose cleaning
Green for kitchen floors

How much you can expect to spend on a mop and bucket set

Most sets cost $30-$60, but you can find specialty sets around $120 or more.

Mop and bucket set FAQ

How do I sanitize a mop and bucket?

A. First, regularly clean any reusable mop head with warm water. This will help remove any remaining cleaning product or debris. If the debris won’t come off, let it sit in hot water for several minutes to loosen it.

If the mop head is machine-washable, put it in the machine and let it air dry. For the bucket, empty it out and wipe it down with a cleaning solution or wet wipes. Let it dry. Never leave a mop in dirty water; this can cause bacteria growth or damage to the mop head.

Where should I dispose of mop water at home?

A. Generally, it’s best to empty the bucket in a cleaning sink or toilet.

What’s the best mop and bucket set to buy?

Top mop and bucket set

O-Cedar Easywring Microfiber Spin Mop and Bucket

What you need to know: This spin mop and bucket set is reliable, simple and can easily handle most residential floors.

What you’ll love: The microfiber mop head absorbs dirty water and picks up debris. It comes with a refill and features a hands-free wringing solution. It’s adjustable, machine-safe and works great on any hard floor surface.

What you should consider: The handle and mop head materials aren’t as durable as they could be.

Top mop and bucket set for the money

Bosheng Mop and Bucket With Wringer Set

What you need to know: This flat floor mop cleans multiple surfaces using 360-degree rotation.

What you’ll love: With three microfiber pads, this mop is great for tile, hardwood and laminate flooring. The bucket features two compartments: one for clean water and one for dirty water. This compact set can also be used for wet and dry cleaning.

What you should consider: Some of the dirty water might mix with the clean water.

Worth checking out

Mastertop Spin Mop and Bucket With Wringer Set

What you need to know: This set is perfect for people who want extra microfiber mop head refills and an easy wringing system.

What you’ll love: This durable set features a stainless steel wringer and mop handle. It comes with five refills and five cleaning cloths. Plus, it’s machine washable and easy to set up.

What you should consider: The bucket handle is a little flimsy, so avoid filling it too much.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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6 Sep 2024

The best LED candles for a relaxing, flame-free glow

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Which LED candles are the best?

With their soft, cozy glow, candles are beautiful decor pieces. Unfortunately, they can leave puddles of melted wax on your furniture and pose a fire hazard, particularly if you have children or pets at home. LED candles are a smokeless, flameless alternative, so you can safely enjoy the ambiance of glowing candles.

LED candles are available in a variety sizes, shapes and colors. Enpornk’s top-rated candles are a great pick because the set includes nine realistic-looking candles with adjustable brightness levels and a flicker setting.

What to know before you buy LED candles

Shape and size

First, determine what shape and size of LED candles fit your needs and style. LED candles come in classic shapes, including tea lights, votives, tapered and pillars. The specific diameter and height measurements can vary from brand to brand.

Most LED tea lights are 2 inches tall and 1.5 inches in diameter, while LED votives are usually 1.9 inches tall and 1 .5 inches in diameter. LED tapered candles are generally 9 to 12 inches in height, and LED pillars are often 4 to 9 inches in height and 3 inches in diameter.

Sets

Some LED candles are sold individually, but others come in a set. Smaller candles like votives and tea lights are often available in sets of 12, 24 or 36. Larger candles like pillars can be sold individually, but some come in sets of three to nine. Tapered candles are generally available in sets of six to 12.

Appearance

All LED candles are designed to look like real candles, but the appearance of the flame can differ. Some LED candles produce flames with a warm white, amber or gold color. Many have a solid flame, while others flicker. Some candles even hide the flame for a more subtle look.

Most LED candles are made of plastic, but you can also find some with a genuine wax interior that gives them a more realistic look. Some larger LED candles are also shaped to look like they’re partially melted.

Controls

Many smaller LED candles, like tea lights, votives and tapered candles, feature an on/off switch on the bottom of the candle. Pillar candles also have a switch, but they often come with a remote control as well. Some LED candles also have a timer.

Some LED candles even allow you to control the appearance of the flame. By using the remote or moving a switch, you can change from a solid, steady flame to a flickering light.

Batteries

Smaller LED candles like votives and tea lights usually come with small buttons or cell batteries that can be replaced. Larger pillar and tapered candles typically run on AA, AAA or D batteries.

Some small styles offer 25-50 hours of operation before needing new batteries. Larger LED candles sometimes provide 300-500 hours.

Weatherproof

If you want to use LED candles outside on your deck or patio, be sure to purchase ones that are waterproof and weatherproof. Solar-powered LED candles, which are specifically designed for outdoor use, are a good choice for a waterproof option.

What to look for in quality LED candles

Flame

LED candles can feature either exposed or hidden flames. Exposed flames are usually made of small pieces of plastic in a flame shape that reflects the LED light. Some exposed flames are actually caps that sit over the LED bulb. Hidden flames sit behind a waxy shell, so they’re not actually visible. Instead, you only see the glow from the interior of the candle.

Dimmer

Some LED candles allow you to control how bright the light is. There’s usually a dimmer button, so you can dim the light to soften its brightness when desired.

Color changing

Most LED candles are white, beige or ivory in color. Other models are color-changing, so you can choose a color or have the candle rotate through colors for special occasions.

Remote

Some sets of LED candles include a remote to control the candles. The remote can adjust the settings on all of the candles, even if they’re not in the same room. In addition, most remotes have a 15 or 16-foot range, so you can control the candles from across the room.

Scented

If you are reluctant to give up traditional scented candles because of the delicious aromas they produce, you can actually find scented LED candles. Standard scent options include vanilla, cinnamon and rose.

Rings

Tapered LED candles sometimes come with latex rings that fit on their bottoms. These rings help the candles fit more securely in standard candle holders.

How much you can expect to spend on LED candles

You’ll usually pay between $7-$19 for LED candles. Those that range from $7-$10 are typically sets of 12 to 24 LED votive or tea lights. For $10-$19, you can find some single LED pillar candles, scented LED candles and other LED candles that come with a remote. You’ll spend more than $19 for larger sets of LED pillars or tapered candles.

LED candles FAQ

Do LED candles get hot?

LED candles, including their bulb, usually stay cool. That makes them a safe option to use inside a pumpkin, luminary bags or other decorative containers for special occasions.

How long do LED candles usually last?

Duration varies from candle to candle, but the bulb in most LED candles can last for up to a year. Of course, you may have to replace the candle’s batteries during that period.

What’s the best LED candle to buy?

Top LED candle

Enpornk Flameless Candles, Set of 9

What you need to know: This large set of realistic LED candles can create the perfect ambiance for your home.

What you’ll love: It contains nine flameless candles that resemble traditional candles and a remote. The user can control the candles’ brightness and flicker. They’re also made with real wax, which makes them look more realistic.

What you should consider: The glow the candles give off is very orange. They’re also all only one height.

Top LED candle for the money

Homemory Battery Operated Tea Lights, Set of 12

What you need to know: Homemory makes a realistic set of LED tea lights, which provide warm white light and feature a partially melted look.

What you’ll love: The set comes with 12 tea lights. Each tea light offers a battery life of more than 100 hours and is guaranteed to work out of the box.

What you should consider: The tea lights are made of plastic, which may not look realistic.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.