Harris and Trump are jockeying for battleground states after their debate

posted in: Politics | 0

By CHRIS MEGERIAN, JONATHAN J. COOPER and GARY D. ROBERTSON Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are making a beeline for swing states that they hope to flip in their favor this year, both of them trying to expand their narrow paths to victory in a closely fought presidential campaign.

Harris has her sights set on North Carolina, where she scheduled rallies in Charlotte and Greensboro on Thursday, her first political events after she buoyed supporters with her performance in Tuesday’s debate. Her team is working to turn key moments from the debate into new television and digital advertising, and promising more travel in battleground states.

Trump is heading west to Tucson, Arizona, as he looks to stabilize his campaign, which continues to struggle to recalibrate nearly two months after Harris replaced President Joe Biden at the top of the Democratic ticket. Although Harris’ team said she’s willing to do another debate, the Republican candidate has waffled.

“Are we going to do a rematch?” Trump said Wednesday. “I just don’t know.”

Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump visits the Shanksville Volunteer Fire Company in Shanksville, Pa., Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

The candidates are barnstorming one day after they marked the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, a somber occasion that provided little respite from partisan politics in a high-speed campaign season.

At a fire station in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, close to where United Airlines Flight 93 crashed after passengers fought back against their hijackers, Trump posed for photos with children who wore campaign shirts. One of the shirts proclaimed former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Biden and Harris were “dumb and dumber and dumbest.”

Biden and Harris visited the same fire station earlier in the day. Someone there offered Biden a red-white-and-blue baseball hat that said “Trump 2024,” and suggested the president put it on to demonstrate his commitment to bipartisan unity. Biden briefly put it on and flashed a wide grin.

Only a handful of battleground states will decide the outcome of the election.

Democrats haven’t won North Carolina’s electoral votes since 2008, when President Barack Obama was elected for the first time. However, Trump’s 2020 margin of victory of 1.3 percentage points was his narrowest win of any state that year, and Democrats hope that North Carolina’s growing and diversifying population will give them an edge this time.

Harris’s campaign said Thursday’s trip would be her ninth to the state this year, and recent polls show a tight race. More than two dozen combined campaign offices — supporting Harris and the rest of the party’s candidates — have been opened, and popular Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper is one of her top surrogates.

Republicans have been confident about Trump’s chances in the state, and the former president held rallies there in August.

Registered independents — known in North Carolina as unaffiliated — are the state’s largest voting bloc and are usually key to determining outcomes in statewide elections. A state Supreme Court ruling this week affirming that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. must be removed from North Carolina ballots could bring additional votes Trump’s way given Kennedy’s endorsement.

Related Articles

National Politics |


What to know about fracking, false claims and other climate issues mentioned during the debate

National Politics |


An Ohio city reshaped by Haitian immigrants lands in an unwelcome spotlight

National Politics |


For Harris and Trump, facial expressions did much of the talking during presidential debate

National Politics |


Donald Trump faces his own debate fallout just months after benefiting from Joe Biden’s

National Politics |


Experts: How Harris and Trump’s plans could impact housing affordability

The state’s Republican Party has dismissed concerns that a poor showing by its gubernatorial nominee, Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, could harm the electoral chances of other party candidates, including Trump.

Democratic nominee Josh Stein and his allies have hammered Robinson for months on the airwaves and social media for his past harsh comments on abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. Stein, the state attorney general, had a lead over Robinson in several recent polls of North Carolina voters.

Arizona is another state where the presidential race could be shaped, at least in part, by down-ballot races. Kari Lake, a prominent Republican election denier who lost her campaign for governor in 2020, is running for the U.S. Senate seat that’s being vacated by Kyrsten Sinema.

Lake exemplifies the rightward shift of the state party in the Trump era. She’s opposed by Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego, who was leading in several recent polls, although the race was close in another.

Republicans have won Arizona in nearly every presidential election since World War II, but Biden eked out a narrow victory in 2020.

The rise of Arizona Democrats has been driven by the arrival of transplants from blue states and a political realignment that has seen suburban voters — particularly college-educated women — shift away from Republicans.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Harris’ running mate, held a rally in the state on Tuesday ahead of the debate, and the Democratic ticket campaigned together there last month.

Republicans still outnumber Democrats in Arizona, but one-third of voters are independent. Ohio Sen. JD Vance, Trump’s running mate, appeared last week in a heavily Republican area of metro Phoenix with Charlie Kirk, the founder of an influential conservative youth group.

Trump was last in Arizona two weeks ago for a news conference along the U.S.-Mexico border, where he drove one of his most effective attacks on Harris over the number of people crossing the border to seek asylum, followed by a rally at a former hockey arena in the Phoenix area.

Both candidates will stay on the road in the coming days. Trump will head to Los Angeles on Thursday night for a fundraiser, then plans to speak to the media on Friday morning before raising more money in the Bay Area and continuing on to Las Vegas for another rally.

Meanwhile, Harris is going to Johnstown and Wilkes-Barre in Pennsylvania on Friday.

Cooper reported from Phoenix and Robertson from Raleigh, North Carolina.

The best cleaning caddies for organizing your supplies

posted in: News | 0

Which cleaning caddy is best?

Whether you’re looking for a way to make cleaning your home easier or you’re starting a residential or commercial cleaning business, a caddy is essential. It lets you organize and carry all of your basic supplies, including rags, cleaning solutions and gloves. The best cleaning caddy is the FifthStart Large Wearable Cleaning Caddy With Handle and Shoulder and Waist Straps.

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

What to know before you buy a cleaning caddy

Uses

The main purpose of a cleaning caddy is to organize cleaning supplies in an easily accessible container. With everything in one place, there’s a decreased chance that you’ll have to search the cupboards for specific cleaning solutions or tools. This makes common household tasks such as dusting, cleaning the sink or washing windows more convenient and cuts back on time.

A caddy is also designed to transport items. If, for example, you need to store supplies in a car’s trunk, the container can prevent them from moving around or spilling.

People often use their caddy to hold:

Cleaning sprays and solutions
Cloths or rags
Wet or dry wipes
Disposable or reusable gloves
Brushes, steel sponges and other cleaning equipment

You can also use them to carry other things, such as art supplies, toys, tools or small containers.

Storage and sections

Cleaning caddies come in a few designs.

Open caddies: These don’t have defined compartments. The benefit is that they can usually hold more cleaning supplies and fit oddly shaped tools or bottles. The downside is that the caddy may be disorganized. If you don’t fill it, the items inside can fall over easily.
Multi-sectioned: Many caddies have at least two predefined sections, usually circular, square or rectangular. When you get one of these, you can store a different kind of item, such as cleaning products or rags, in each section. The compartments also help keep things from falling or spilling.
Sections plus pockets: Some caddies have one or two main sections and smaller pockets on the outside. The main parts can hold larger items, such as dusters or cleaning solutions, while the pockets can hold smaller items, such as cleaning brushes or sponges.

Portability

Nearly every cleaning caddy comes with a handle in the center. If you distribute the weight evenly on either side of the container, this handle makes carrying it around hassle-free. But if you need something bigger or more portable, there are also ones with wheels.

Some caddies have shoulder straps so you can carry them over your shoulder. This can make basic cleaning or touch-ups easy, but it can be uncomfortable when used for regular or heavy cleaning tasks.

What to look for in a quality cleaning caddy

Material

Many basic cleaning caddies are made of hard plastic, which is durable and can last for months or years when used correctly. These containers often have a rubber base that helps grip items to keep them from sliding around.

Another common option is canvas, which is thick, water-resistant and capable of holding its shape for a long time. These are more likely to come with straps than other kinds of caddies.

Size and weight

There is no one-size-fits-all for cleaning caddies. Some are made from heavier materials, while others can become burdensome when filled. Those with high edges or multiple compartments typically weigh more than those with one or two sections.

Before choosing a caddy, consider what you want to put in it. Ask yourself how much space you need and try to find a container that can hold all of your supplies. If you’re unsure, opt for a slightly larger one with wheels for easy portability.

You can also check the caddy’s description for its dimension and capacity to better understand what it can hold. These measurements are usually given in liters or gallons.

Design

Most basic caddies come in solid colors, such as white, opaque or gray, though some have multiple colors.

Caddies are generally rectangular, with deep tray-like compartments. However, some look like carrying bags. Larger caddies often have more complex features, like mesh pockets or clips.

How much you can expect to spend on a cleaning caddy

A simple plastic one costs $10-$30. Larger or more complex ones with additional compartments or wheels cost $30-$50.

Cleaning caddy FAQ

How should I maintain my cleaning caddy?

A. Empty the container once a month or so and wipe it down with a cleaning solution and a rag or wipe. By performing routine maintenance, you can ensure no mold builds up along the bottom or inner sides from spills. Also, check for possible cracks or areas that could leak if a container spills. While you’re at it, wipe down any items inside the caddy, too.

Where’s the best place to store a cleaning caddy?

A. Since they aren’t usually that big, most can fit under the kitchen or bathroom sink or in a utility closet or pantry. If you have a large home and multiple caddies, consider storing them in different areas for easy access. Make sure the space is dry.

What’s the best cleaning caddy to buy?

Top cleaning caddy

FifthStart Large Wearable Cleaning Caddy With Handle and Shoulder and Waist Straps

What you need to know: This wearable caddy lets you neatly organize all the essential cleaning supplies, making it ideal for mobile cleaners.

What you’ll love: It has an adjustable shoulder strap and a waist strap that distributes the weight while carrying it around, making cleaning more hands-free. The main pockets are deep enough to keep bottles upright, while the outer pockets can store smaller supplies. It’s available in two sizes and seven colors and prints, including green, beige and blue floral.

What you should consider: When filled to capacity, it can become heavy even with the straps.

Top cleaning caddy for the money

Libman Maid Caddy

What you need to know: This compact caddy is perfect for anyone who wants something simple and lightweight for household cleaning.

What you’ll love: It’s made from durable plastic and has two large chambers that can hold an assortment of cleaning supplies, as well as three smaller compartments for rags and spray bottles.

What you should consider: It’s on the smaller side.

Worth checking out

Casabella Cleaning Handle Bucket Storage Caddy

What you need to know: This caddy has a single compartment and is great for anyone who prefers to keep all their cleaning supplies in one convenient location.

What you’ll love: It comes in three solid colors, is made of hard plastic with a durable central handle and can hold up to 4 gallons. It is lightweight and portable.

What you should consider: It’s not tall, so taller bottles might fall out when carried.

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

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

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.

Time-saving onion choppers every home cook needs

posted in: News | 0

WHAT IS THE BEST ONION CHOPPER?

Onions are a popular vegetable for spicing up meals and garnishing entrees — the average American eats 20 pounds of onions each year. But preparing onions can be messy, and as many people know, cutting them releases sulfuric compounds that cause our eyes to water. So slicing onions can be a tearful kitchen adventure. Onion choppers save the day by not only easily dicing onions but also trapping the eye-irritating odor in the machine.

What to know before you buy an onion chopper

Manual vs. electric onion choppers

Choppers are either manual or electric.

Manual choppers work by pushing the onion through the blade grid or pulling a string that rotates blades around the onion or other vegetables. They are usually less expensive, but the cutting can be inconsistent, which is a problem if the presentation is important.
Electric choppers have powerful motors that are more reliable and simply require pushing a button. They are more expensive but can handle larger quantities and offer different cutting styles.

Sizes

Many choppers are designed for slicing one onion, which typically meets the need of a single meal at home. If you need to chop a lot of onions at once for a party or larger meal, look at choppers that can cut multiple vegetables simultaneously.

Chopping options

The most basic choppers dice onions as they pass through the blade grid. If you need a thinner cut, you may need to manually cut the onion before putting it in the chopper, or put the first cut of onion through the chopper again.

Many choppers come with multiple blades that can be interchanged for different styles of cuts. These choppers cost a little more than basic ones that only dice.

What to look for in a quality onion chopper

Blades

All choppers have stainless steel blades for easy slicing. The blades in manual box choppers are not removable, so they dull over time. When that happens, it is usually time to purchase a new chopper. Other choppers feature blades that can be removed and sharpened, extending the chopper’s life. Consult a professional knife or blade sharpener to maintain your safety and ensure the blades are properly sharpened.

Base

Chopper bases are either plastic or stainless steel. The steel bases are naturally heavier and help hold the machine in place. Regardless of base material, look for choppers with rubberized bottoms that add an extra layer of grip when the chopper is in use.

Container

The container that comes with a chopper is usually plastic, although high-end units have glass bowls. The container size varies, so look for the size that fits your cooking needs. Some hold a small quantity of around 1 cup, while others are designed for larger meal preparations and hold over a quart of onions and vegetables.

Dishwasher-safe

Nearly all chopper components, including the blades, are dishwasher-safe, which makes for quick and easy tear-down and cleanup. Use caution when removing the blades, and always unplug the chopper beforehand. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for additional suggestions about proper cleaning techniques.

How much you can expect to spend on an onion chopper

For $15-$30, you will find basic manual choppers made of plastic with stainless steel blade grids. More powerful choppers with multiple cutting styles cost $30-$60, and for the serious chef who often chops large quantities of onions, commercial-grade choppers are $60-$120.

Onion chopper FAQ

Can the onion chopper be used with other vegetables?

A. Most onion choppers are advertised as vegetable choppers. Most vegetables will work with them, but check the manufacturer’s list of recommended vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, radishes and carrots. Also, consider whether you want to cut vegetables together or separate each kind of vegetable.

What is the best way to remove the onion smell from the container?

A. Even with regular cleaning, the container can take on a slight onion smell over time. Try soaking the bowl in vinegar and then rewashing it. This should help remove the onion odor.

Do all onions taste the same?

A. There are many varieties of onions. Popular Valencia, Spanish and yellow onions, for instance, each have a distinct flavor. Use your chopper to taste-test them and pick your favorite.

What’s the best onion chopper to buy?

Top onion chopper

Alligator Stainless Steel Chopper

What you need to know: This premium chopper is made from stylish, strong stainless steel and has a stellar reputation.

What you’ll love: The chopper has three interchangeable blades for different types of cutting, including a mincer. The blades are beveled for easy cutting, and the cleanup is easy with dishwasher-safe pieces.

What you should consider: You must turn the cup upside-down to get the onions out.

Top onion chopper for the money

Fullstar Vegetable Chopper

What you need to know: This affordable chopper has seven interchangeable blades for easily cutting onions and other vegetables.

What you’ll love: The 1.2-quart tray holds a lot of chopped onions. The chopper has a molded finger guard and a rubber base to prevent slipping. It is dishwasher-safe and can be completely taken apart.

What you should consider: The blades are extremely sharp, so you should be extra careful when using or cleaning it.

Worth checking out

Oxo Good Grips Vegetable and Onion Chopper

What you need to know: This chopper’s simple push-down design makes it easy to cut onions and pour them out without disassembling.

What you’ll love: The stainless steel blade pattern quickly cuts vegetables with one push. The 2.5-cup container pours easily without having to lift the lid. The bottom is rubberized to prevent slips, and the components are dishwasher-safe.

What you should consider: Some consumers found it challenging to remove the blades for cleaning.

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

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

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.

Harvey Weinstein indicted on additional sex crimes charges ahead of New York retrial

posted in: Politics | 0

By MICHAEL R. SISAK

NEW YORK (AP) — Disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein has been indicted on additional sex crimes charges ahead of his retrial in New York, Manhattan prosecutors said at a hearing Thursday.

The indictment will remain under seal until Weinstein’s arraignment on the new charges, which is scheduled for Sept. 18.

Weinstein, 72, is recovering from emergency heart surgery Monday at a Manhattan hospital to remove fluid on his heart and lungs and was not at Thursday’s hearing.

Prosecutors retrying Weinstein’s overturned rape conviction disclosed last week that they had begun presenting to a grand jury evidence of up to three additional allegations against Weinstein, dating as far back as the mid-2000s.

They include alleged sexual assaults at the Tribeca Grand Hotel, now known as the Roxy Hotel, and in a Lower Manhattan residential building between late 2005 and mid-2006, and an alleged sexual assault at a Tribeca hotel in May 2016.

Because the indictment is under seal, it was not known whether the new charges involved some or all of the additional allegations.

Prosecutors had been seeking to retry Weinstein after New York’s highest court, the Court of Appeals, overturned his 2020 conviction on rape and sexual assault charges earlier this year and ordered a new trial.

It remains to be seen whether the new charges will be included in the retrial, as prosecutors hope, or handled as a separate case by the court.

The new charges come after prosecutors in Britain announced last week that they would no longer pursue charges of indecent assault against Weinstein, who was the most prominent villain of the #MeToo movement in 2017 when women began going public with accounts of his behavior.

Weinstein, who co-founded the film and television production company Miramax, has long maintained that any sexual activity was consensual.

At Thursday’s hearing, Judge Curtis Farber ruled that because of Weinstein’s health concerns, he will be allowed to remain at Bellevue Hospital indefinitely instead of being moved back to the city’s Rikers Island jail complex.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office had signaled for months that new charges were imminent against Weinstein, who was once one of the most powerful people in Hollywood, having produced films such as “Pulp Fiction” and “The Crying Game.”

In July, prosecutors told a judge they were actively pursuing claims of rape that occurred in Manhattan within the statute of limitations.

They said some potential accusers who were not ready to come forward during Weinstein’s first New York trial had indicated they were now willing to testify.

New York’s highest court threw out Weinstein’s 2020 conviction in April after determining the trial judge unfairly allowed testimony against him based on allegations from other women that were not part of the case.

Prosecutors have said one of the accusers in that case, Jessica Mann, is prepared to testify against him again. It’s unclear if the second accuser, Mimi Haley, would participate. Her lawyer, Gloria Allred, declined to comment.

The Associated Press does not generally identify people alleging sexual assault unless they consent to be named, as Haley and Mann did.

Weinstein, who had been serving a 23-year sentence in New York when his conviction was quashed, was convicted in Los Angeles in 2022 of another rape.

His 16-year prison sentence in that case still stands, but his lawyers appealed in June, arguing he did not get a fair trial in Los Angeles. Weinstein has remained in custody in New York’s Rikers Island jail complex while awaiting the retrial.