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New York Post
7 days ago
- Politics
- New York Post
Supremes slap SWAT stupidity, DOGE cuts inspire innovation and other commentary
From the right: Supremes Slap SWAT Stupidity The Supreme Court just unanimously opened the door for 'innocent injured parties to hold federal law enforcement officers accountable,' notes the Washington Examiner's editorial board. In 2017, a SWAT team led by an FBI special agent raided the wrong Atlanta house, but a lower court tossed the homeowners' lawsuit. Huh? 'The Federal Tort Claims Act was amended in 1974 specifically to allow' for compensation in such cases. The 11th Circuit had 'held that unless a source of federal law 'specifically prescribes' a course of conduct,' any 'official act is immune from suit'; now the Supremes have 'rejected that test,' demanding 'a rule that is more in spirit with the 1974 amendments.' Libertarian: DOGE Cuts Inspire Innovation 'Downsizing pushed the Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau to adopt tech solutions that it could have tried years ago,' cheers C. Jarrett Dieterle at Reason. DOGE cuts are 'clearly forcing agencies to think more creatively and to explore new ideas for increasing efficiency and cutting costs.' Look at the agency tasked with approving labels on cans and bottles of alcohol: 'The TTB is exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to help with the label review and approval process,' though 'before the staff reductions, it does not appear to have been on the agency's radar.' Plus: The pre-DOGE TTB had expanded its own brief 'to police the naming protocols of orange-tinted Pinot Grigio. If downsizing is what it takes to pull Washington back from that sort of micromanagement, we need more of it.' Mideast beat: Jewish State Here To Stay 'The meaning of [Israel's] attack on Iran is unmistakable,' argues Commentary's John Podhoretz: 'Israel will not allow itself to be wiped off the earth.' Rather, 'it will thrive, as successful nations that defend themselves from evil and prevail in the wake of it always thrive.' Indeed, it's proof 'Israel is now a reality' — it has 'legitimized itself' — and will 'endure, as the Jewish people have endured.' 'The sheer scale of the first night's sorties and attacks leaves one breathless,' indeed 'mute at the audacity of the planning and the magnificence (thus far) of the execution. And one wonders, yet again, if what is happening here is once more a sign not just of Israel finding its own salvation in Jewish self-rule — but of God's providence.' Israeli opposition leader: A Nation United 'Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is my political rival,' Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid concedes at The Jerusalem Post, 'but his decision to strike Iran at this moment in time is the right one. The whole country is united in this moment, when faced with an enemy sworn to our destruction, nothing will divide us.' Fact is, 'the Iranian regime has repeatedly said, without hesitation and without shame, that its ultimate goal is the destruction of the State of Israel,' and its actions such as funding 'terror organizations that do everything they can to murder Jews in Israel and abroad' bear that out. 'Israel isn't interested in destroying Iran'; 'we went to war for the only reason that justifies war — we had no choice. A nuclear Iran would have been an existential threat to the State of Israel. Iran cannot be a nuclear state. Not now. Not ever.' Economist: Fed Owns Far Too Much US Debt The Federal Reserve 'has become the largest single holder of U.S. national debt,' frets Judy Shelton at The Wall Street Journal. It now 'owns $4.2 trillion in U.S. government debt in the form of Treasury bills, notes and bonds,' estimated to hit '$9.9 trillion in 2035 — more than double today's amount.' Yet 'the central bank owned less than $500 billion in Treasurys before the 2008 global financial crisis' and Fed chief Jerome Powell in 2019 vowed to reduce the size of that portfolio. 'The ramifications of the nation's compromised debt funding raise disturbing questions about the commingling of government functions.' One way out: 'Congress could rescind the Fed's authority to pay interest on reserve balances, which was granted in October 2008 as part of an emergency package' to push the central bank back toward traditional operations. — Compiled by The Post Editorial Board
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Some Federal Agencies Are Actually Getting More Efficient
With the Department of Government Efficiency aiming to reduce the size and scope of the federal bureaucracy, the Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has not been immune. The agency recently reported a 13 percent reduction in its workforce since last year. While much of this appears to have come in the form of "voluntary resignations," it's clear that many of DOGE's policies are directly targeted at encouraging such attrition. The TTB is the primary federal regulatory body responsible for alcohol. The bulk of alcohol regulation has taken place at the state and local level since the end of Prohibition, but the feds have kept their hands in the pie through this agency, which oversees myriad tax issues, trade practice rules, and a label approval regime that determines what illustrations you're allowed to see on your favorite beer can. Under the TTB's pre-approval process, the agency has to sign off on the labels that attach to alcohol bottles and cans before those products hit the market. This contrasts with the Food and Drug Administration's system for food labels on non-alcoholic items, which polices label infractions only after products go on sale. Speaking remotely to a recent Napa Valley wine conference, TTB spokesperson Janelle Christian said that the average processing time for label approval has increased in recent months. While she attributed this to the aforementioned staff reductions, she also provided a great real-world example of necessity becoming the mother of invention: The TTB is exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to help with the label review and approval process. The possibility that AI could enhance food labeling compliance has been touted for several years now, so this is an idea that the TTB should have pursued long ago. But before the staff reductions, it does not appear to have been on the agency's radar. Downsizing is clearly forcing agencies to think more creatively and to explore new ideas for increasing efficiency and cutting costs. (Christian's remarks via laptop to the wine conference are another example of that: TTB officials used to attend that conference in person.) The TTB's labeling regime has not only suffered from long processing times in the past. It is also a case study in the inanity of bureaucracy. The agency's labeling rules prohibit "health-related statements," which it has construed to be comically broad. The agency once rejected a label for King of Hearts beer because the picture—a playing card with a heart—was deemed to imply a health benefit. St. Paula's Liquid Wisdom got in trouble because "wisdom" supposedly implied a medical claim. That mentality is still alive and well at the TTB labeling office. In those same remarks to the Napa Valley conference, Christian declared that the two most common wine label violations the agency sees involve rosé and orange wine. "Rosé is a color. It does need to say 'rosé wine,'" she said. "'Orange wine' is a fruit wine under TTB regulations. You aren't allowed to call it 'orange wine' on your label. You can call it 'orange-tinted Pinot Gris' or an 'amber-colored' or an 'orange-hued wine.'" Something is wrong when the federal government has grown large enough to police the naming protocols of orange-tinted Pinot Grigio. If downsizing is what it takes to pull Washington back from that sort of micromanagement, we need more of it. The post Some Federal Agencies Are Actually Getting More Efficient appeared first on
Business Wire
13-06-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Through Transport Mutual Insurance Association Limited and Its Subsidiaries
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings of 'a-' (Excellent) of Through Transport Mutual Insurance Association Limited (TTB) (Bermuda) and its subsidiaries, TT Club Mutual Insurance Limited (TTI) (United Kingdom) and TT Club Mutual Insurance N.V. (TTNV) (Netherlands). TTB, TTI and TTNV are collectively known as the TT Club (the club). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. The ratings of TTB reflect its balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management. The ratings of TTI and TTNV reflect their strategic importance to TTB, and the implicit and explicit support that they receive from TTB, particularly in the form of comprehensive reinsurance protection. TTB's balance sheet strength is underpinned by its consolidated risk-adjusted capitalisation, which is well in excess of the minimum required for the strongest assessment level, as measured by Best's Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). The club's balance sheet strength also benefits from a relatively conservative investment strategy and a long track record of prudent reserving, with releases of overall reserves recorded in all financial years, except 2023. AM Best views TTB's moderate dependence on reinsurance, used to manage the club's capacity, as an offsetting balance sheet strength assessment factor. The associated risks are mitigated partially by the high credit quality of the club's reinsurance partners, many of which TT Club has long-established relationships with. TTB's adequate operating performance is demonstrated by a five-year (2020-2024) weighted average return-on-equity ratio of 4.3%. TTB reported technical losses in 2023 and 2024, in part driven by higher reserves booked for U.S. bodily injury claims due to the elevated loss experience of this line in recent years. To mitigate the risk of adverse development in prospective years, management has been increasing the reserve margin, which it holds in excess of the best estimate reserves. In addition, TT Club elected to expense the cost of an information technology project upfront in years 2021 to 2024, rather than capitalising it on the balance sheet. These factors resulted in the company reporting a five-year weighted average combined ratio of 100.8%. The club's overall earnings remain supported by modest investment returns, reflecting the conservative asset allocation. TT Club is a specialist mutual insurance organisation, operating in the international transport and logistics industry. It offers property and liability risk covers for port, ship and logistics operators, and provides loss prevention and risk management services to its members. The club has a strong position in its niche market, which is highlighted by its excellent member retention and supported by its global presence. This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best's website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best's Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best's Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best's Credit Ratings, Best's Performance Assessments, Best's Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best's Ratings & Assessments.
Forbes
12-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Father's Day Gift Guide 2025: The Tastiest Non-Alcoholic Beers
Dale's non-alcoholic beer is part of the booming trend of NA and alcohol-free brews worldwide. It happens every year: it's January, you blink, and somehow, Father's Day is this weekend. For anyone hunting for something to bring (or even if you already have some great gifts lined up already), check out this list of non-alcoholic and alcohol-free beers. You won't be alone: according to an IWSR report released in May, volume was up 9%, and they 'forecast that it will surpass ale to become the second largest overall beer category by volume worldwide this year.' In this list, you'll see a number of names from major conglomerates, as well as a few smaller manufacturers, but before we crack the list open, here's a point of clarification: the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) defines a 'non-alcoholic' brew as having less than 0.5% ABV, while an 'alcohol free' offering must be 0.0% ABV. Also, none of these beers are technically 'beer'— according to the TTB, they're actually just a 'malt beverage' (but for the purposes of this list, we'll stick to saying 'beer.') Now that that's settled, here are some of the tastiest non-alcoholic beers worth cracking open this Father's Day, whether you're sipping together or doing a cheers from afar. Guinness 0 manages to preserve the rich, creamy taste of the original with less than 0.5% ABV. From Diageo—the same drinks giant behind everything from Johnnie Walker to Tanqueray—comes perhaps the most technically impressive NA beer on the market. Guinness 0 manages to preserve the thick, cascading pour, the creamy mouthfeel, and the malty coffee notes that make the original so beloved. It's made with the same ingredients as the standard draft, just with the alcohol gently removed after brewing. For stout fans, this one's hard to beat. Developed by AB InBev and brought to you (in the US, at least) by Constellation Brands, Corona's NA version sticks to its roots with a light, citrus-kissed body and that unmistakable beach-adjacent flavor. Priced at the same level as Corona Extra, you'd be hard-pressed to tell the difference in a blind tasting. The signature clear bottle is here, the lime suggestion is still valid, and the easy-drinking quality hasn't gone anywhere. It's best served outside, ideally next to a lawn chair. Years is the new kid on the block, based in the Midwest as a release from Pilot Project Brewing. They have a Pilsner and a Classic Pale Ale: the former is brewed with precision and gives a classic pils mouthfeel, while the latter offers a bright hops flavor with a smooth malt base. They're both delicious, but just a note: you might not be able to find them in bars outside their home region, but they ship all across the country. Designated Dale's NA Pils is a great NA offering from a legacy craft brewery. From Oskar Blues—the Longmont, Colorado-based brewery best known for putting craft beer in a can—comes this crisp, clean take on a pilsner that doesn't sacrifice flavor for functionality. Designated Dale's is a nod to their flagship Dale's Pale Ale, and while this one drops the ABV to less than 0.5%, it keeps the iconic flavor. There's a real beer texture here, a bready flavor, and a crisp snap on the finish. They're also the official sponsor of US Curling, which is a sport that really benefits from the ability to keep your balance on ice (or not). Co-founded by actor Tom Holland and CEO John Herman, Bero is a minimalist NA beer that comes with real European brewing cred. They have four total styles, with a new West Coast style IPA rolling out this year. They've also landed distribution deals with Target, Sprouts, and Total Wine, and their CEO says they're the top-selling NA beer on Amazon—so there's some real buzz behind this relatively new brand. Founded in 2017 and now one of the fastest-growing beverage brands in the U.S., Athletic Brewing is all-in on NA beer. Their Connecticut-based operation has everything from IPAs to stouts to seasonal releases, and the beers routinely win awards in both nonalcoholic and general craft categories. With Nielsen data from 2024 claiming that they hold 19% of the domestic NA beer market, Athletic doesn't just make good NA beer; they make good beer, period, and it shows. Heineken 0.0 is one of the oldest NA offerings from a major brewer, with a presence in the US market since 2019. One of the earliest legacy brands to take NA beer seriously—they've had a presence in the US market since 2019. Heineken put real resources behind 0.0 and it shows, with an NA lager that stacks up against of s, and pours and drinks like the classic green-bottled original. It's got a sweet grainy nose, a mild hop character, and a touch of bitterness on the finish to keep it grounded. If your dad's a longtime Heiny drinker, this will hit the mark. Best Day Brewing, a California-based outfit, specializes in funky NA beers that deliver some serious flavor. They're part of the new wave of NA producers treating the category seriously without forgetting to make it fun. Their Electro-Lime Cerca de Cerveza is particularly tasty, with a zippy hint of lime and a smooth mouthfeel that make it a refreshing summer swig. Find them in stores or get them shipped (unless you're in Georgia, Michigan, Mississippi, Kansas, Idaho, and Nebraska, for legal reasons). Owned by Asahi Group Holdings, the Italian stalwart Peroni has brought its famously crisp Euro-lager into the zero-proof world with serious fidelity. It smells and tastes nearly identical to the full-strength version, with a lean, dry body and a faint hop character. It's the kind of beer that feels just fancy enough for dinner but still works with pizza—or a grill weekend with Dad. Bottom line: Not every father wants or needs a buzz to enjoy their Father's Day. With this lineup, he can still have his beer moment, minus the next-day regret. Or the designated driving duties.
Yahoo
17-05-2025
- Yahoo
749 Cartons of Cigarettes Worth Nearly $60,000 Confiscated from Cruise Passengers in California
749 cartons of illegally imported cigarettes concealed in 10 pieces of luggage were found in California on Thursday, April 17, per a U.S. Customs and Border Protection press release The discovery was made after CBP officers inspected cruise passengers who had traveled out of Ensenada, Mexico The total value of the cigarettes is estimated to be $59,920Two female cruise passengers attempted to illegally import 749 cartons of cigarettes worth nearly $60,000 into California. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said in a press release on Wednesday, May 14, that the cruise ship traveled out of Ensenada, Mexico, and arrived at the Long Beach Cruise Ship Terminal on Thursday, April 17. Upon inspection by CBP officers assigned to the Los Angeles/Long Beach Seaport area on that date, it was discovered that the women had 10 pieces of luggage full of cigarettes. CBP officers found 326 cartons of Newport 100's, 58 cartons of Newport regulars, 112 cartons of Marlboro Red, 43 cartons of Marlboro Silver, and 210 cartons of Marlboro Gold cigarettes, the agency said. According to the CBP, based on a low-end estimate of $80 a carton in California, the cigarettes' total value is estimated to be $59,920. Although the two women could present purchase receipts for the 749 cartons of cigarettes, the CBP said the pair did not provide the appropriate permits to import the large quantity of tobacco products. The CBP said that because the women were traveling with a high number of cigarettes, they would be considered "commercial" and not for personal use, resulting in the need for an importer permit from the U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). The TTB states on its website that an importer permit is required anytime anyone wishes to import tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, snuff, pipe tobacco, or roll your own tobacco into the U.S. for business purposes. Tobacco product labels must also meet FDA standards, including nicotine warnings and accurate product descriptions. Since the women did not present the proper documentation, the CBP said that all 749 cartons were seized and would be destroyed under CBP supervision. Cheryl M. Davies, CBP Director of Field Operations in Los Angeles, said in a statement that the "importation of tobacco products is highly regulated from both tax and consumer safety perspectives." 'Travelers who intentionally disregard U.S. importation laws and regulations often pay a high price," she added. Africa R. Bell, CBP Port Director of Los Angeles/Long Beach Seaport noted that the selling of illegally important cigarettes could also "yield high profits for underground vendors due to the low cost of cigarettes when purchased overseas and the evasion of taxes owed upon import." Never miss a story — sign up for to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 'This type of scheme not only evades revenue owed to the United States but may be harmful to the American consumer," Bell said. "CBP officers at our nation's largest seaport complex, remain committed to enforcing our laws and to protect the American public." Read the original article on People
