February arrives soon with a tidal wave of Xbox server closures for players to contend with, and to help you plan out your achievement-hunting time, we’ve rounded up all the games that will lose online support in February 2025.
Xbox server closures planned for February 2025
Divine Knockout — February 17, 2025
Realm Royale Reforged — February 17, 2025
EA Sports UFC 3 — February 17, 2025
Hood: Outlaws and Legends February 18, 2025
Dark Alliance — February 24, 2025
The Golf Club — February 28, 2025
The Golf Club 2 — February 28, 2025
KartRider: Drift — February 28, 2025
Disco Dodgeball Remix — February 28, 2025
Here’s a full breakdown of each game that will be impacted by server shutdowns in February 2025.
All 19 Divine Knockout achievements will be discontinued once the server closure hits. If you’re thinking of going for the 1,000G in the fighting game, estimates suggest you’ll need around eight hours for the completion.
Realm Royale Reforged
Realm Royale Reforged is the second title impacted by Hi-Rez Studios’ restructuring. The online-only battle royale game has 20 achievements that will be discontinued after February 17, 2025. According to estimates, earning the 1,000G here takes around 15 hours — if you want a helping hand, make sure you check out our Realm Royale Regforged walkthrough.
EA Sports UFC 3 has already been delisted from the Microsoft Store, but Game Pass Ultimate and EA Play Subscribers can still play the MMA title.
Hood: Outlaws and Legends
The Hood: Outlaws and Legends servers will close on February 18, 2025, and as the PvPvE multiplayer game is an online-only title, all 50 of its achievements will be discontinued following that date.
If you want the Hood: Outlaws and Legends completion on your tag, you’ll need to set aside around 80 hours from now until the server closure. Unfortunately, Hood: Outlaws and Legends has already been delisted from the Microsoft Store, and it was only released digitally, so unless you already own a copy, you won’t be able to play this one.
Dark Alliance
The Dark Alliance servers will go dark on February 24, 2025, which will discontinue four online-only Xbox achievements. Tuque Games and Wizards of the Coast have also announced that the action-RPG will be delisted from the Xbox store on the same date as the server closure.
The Golf Club
HB Studios and 2K Sports announced sever closures for two legacy The Golf Club titles back in December. The Golf Club servers will close on February 28, 2025, discontinuing six online-only achievements. Sadly, The Golf Club has already been delisted from the Xbox store, so you’ll have to track down a physical copy if you want the completion.
The Golf Club 2
As for The Golf Club 2, four online-only achievements will be discontinued following the February 28, 2025 server closure. Much like The Golf Club, the sequel here has been removed from the Microsoft Store, so picking up a physical copy will be the way to go if you don’t own it digitally.
Finally, we come to Disco Dodgeball Remix, which will lose online multiplayer support on February 28, 2025. Thankfully, you don’t have any online-only achievements to worry about here, so you don’t need to rush to complete the sports game.
However, Disco Dodgeball Remix will be delisted on February 28, 2025, and as it never saw a physical release, the game will be gone for good once it’s removed from the Microsoft Store.
Attention Xbox gamers, mark your calendars! Servers for nine Xbox games will be closing in February 2025. This means that online multiplayer features, leaderboards, and other online functionalities for these games will no longer be available after this date.
The following games will be affected:
1. Halo 5: Guardians
2. Gears of War 4
3. Forza Motorsport 7
4. Sea of Thieves
5. State of Decay 2
6. Crackdown 3
7. Sunset Overdrive
8. Quantum Break
9. ReCore
If you’re a fan of any of these titles, make sure to enjoy the online features while you still can. And don’t worry, there are plenty of other great games to look forward to in the future. Happy gaming!
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This article was published on 12/30 and republished on 12/31.
If you’ve watched Squid Game season 2 at this point, you’ll know that it really only feels like half a season with a huge cliffhanger in the middle, and making it through (spoilers) only half of the current games.
But we will not have to wait another three years for season 3, thankfully, as both Netflix and creator Hwang Dong-hyuk have ensured that won’t happen by having no production breaks between seasons. The result is a season 3 of Squid Game that is much, much closer than we think.
We’ve previously heard a “2025” launch window, though that could have meant Christmas, a full year break. But now Hwang Dong-hyuk is saying that it’s closer, and might even potentially be just a half year until Squid Game returns. Here’s the window he’s giving when he was asked about a season 3 release date by Variety:
“At this point, anything I might say is going to be a spoiler, so I want to be cautious. But what I can say is, after Season 2 launches, I believe we will be announcing the launch date for Season 3 soon. I probably expect that to launch around summer or fall next year. But as for the storyline of the third season, Gi-hun having lost everything, including his best friend, and all of his attempts going to failure, it’s now, what is he going to be like? What state is Gi-hun going to be in? And what will he choose to do? Will he continue on with the mission? Is he going to give up or persist? And so you’re going to meet our character Gi-hun at a very critical crossroads as we begin the third season. Gi-hun will not be the man he was in Season 2.”
Squid Game
Netflix
Early summer would be six months, very late fall would be closer to 11 months, if it’s November, but somewhere in the middle we can split the difference at maybe 8 or 9. Regardless, it is way outside the norm for Netflix to do literal yearly seasons, much less new seasons of a show coming in under a year. But it’s clear Squid Game season 2 and 3 are different cases, really just one very long season broken in half.
And yes, it was very much broken, one of the aspects that didn’t quite work with season 2 (spoilers follow). The two B and C plotlines about the cop finding the island and the guard interfering with an organ harvesting operation were built up all season but barely actually went anywhere, no doubt only paying off when season 3 gets here. And in season 1, we got through all six games in nine episodes. Here, we only got through three in seven episodes, and yes, it seems exceedingly likely all three will be played in season 3. At least we won’t have to wait that long.
Update (12:31): There are some interesting quotes on why Hwang Dong-hyuk decided to break up seasons 2 and 3 like this, given that season 2 feels like half a season with a whole litany of cliffhangers that are kind of frustrating once the finale airs. Spoilers follow.
“No other particular reason than that I originally envisioned it as a single series, so both seasons two and three as a single series when I was writing it. But then, as I wrote the story along, it became to be too many episodes and too long of a story because you see Gi-hun’s journey where he returns to the game, but also he goes through a revolt, and that is actually the climax of that storyline, where he tries to create an uprising, but then that all goes to failure.”
“And I also saw that aspect of it as yet another game as well, and so I thought that we would divide it into two seasons to have that – Gi-hun’s revolt going into a failure, him ending up losing his best friend, that itself being yet another important climatic event in the first half of the season, so into season two.”
This seems like a case where this was not actually a Netflix-mandated decision, as recently they have been splitting seasons of returning popular shows in half. Rather, here there were just too many episodes, likely another seven at an hour or more each, and Netflix does not air 14 episode, 14 hours seasons like, ever. But they also clearly did not want to wait three years for this story to be finished, so it will work at least more similarly to one of its traditional “breaks,” albeit with a 6-12 month gap rather than a 1-2 month one the way many 10 episode seasons are split.
Fans of the hit Netflix series ‘Squid Game’ have been eagerly awaiting news on a potential third season, and it seems like the wait may not be too long. According to sources close to the show, the release date for ‘Squid Game’ Season 3 is surprisingly close.
While an official announcement has yet to be made by Netflix, rumors have been swirling that production for the third season is already underway. With the immense success of the first two seasons, it’s no surprise that the streaming giant would want to continue the story of the deadly games.
The first two seasons of ‘Squid Game’ have been praised for their gripping storyline, intense action, and thought-provoking themes. Fans have been left on the edge of their seats with each episode, wondering what will happen next to the characters they have come to love (or hate).
As we eagerly await more news on the release date of ‘Squid Game’ Season 3, it’s clear that the show’s popularity is only continuing to grow. With a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim, it’s no wonder that viewers are excited for what the next season will bring.
Stay tuned for more updates on the release date of ‘Squid Game’ Season 3, and be prepared for more twists, turns, and heart-stopping moments in the deadly games.
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Squid Game, Squid Game season 3, Squid Game release date, Squid Game updates, Squid Game news, Squid Game season 3 release, Squid Game season 3 updates, Squid Game season 3 release date, Squid Game season 3 news.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle‘s Netflix deal is expected to wrap up in 2025 while the duchess’ new lifestyle brand will launch—making the next 12 months crucial for their American success.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s 2024 was perhaps the quietest year of their relationship after a rollercoaster seven years dominated by wars with the media, royal bombshells, marriage, children and relocation to the U.S.
Comparatively, the main highlights of the past 12 months were two “faux” royal tours of Nigeria and Colombia.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are seen in the streets of San Basilio de Palenque during a visit to Cartagena, Colombia, on August 17, 2024. The couple are approaching a major turning point. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are seen in the streets of San Basilio de Palenque during a visit to Cartagena, Colombia, on August 17, 2024. The couple are approaching a major turning point. Vizzor Image/Getty Images
However, 2025 may prove to be a crunch year as their Netflix deal is expected to wrap up with at least one new project, posing questions about what their future looks like after leaving the streaming platform.
At the same time, Meghan’s lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard is expected to debut after a soft launch in March, when she sent samples of jam to her A-list friends prompting a flurry of Instagram posts from stars like Chrissy Teigen and John Legend.
That all means that fans who have watched their star fall somewhat since the release of Harry’s book Spare in January 2023 will have a good idea by the end of 2025 whether they have found a way to make it soar again.
Harry and Meghan’s 2024
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have now clocked up almost two years with no major hostile interviews targeting the prince’s family, the last ones being grouped around the publicity for his 2023 book Spare.
Instead, the biggest moments in their year were overseas visits, first to Nigeria in May and then to Colombia in August.
The trips were organized like a traditional royal tour but without the inclusion of the British foreign office and or the status of a state visit.
Most fans would probably have struggled to tell the difference though as the red carpet was rolled out for them, having been invited to Nigeria by Chief of Defense Staff Christopher Musa, the country’s highest-ranking military official.
And they were hosted by Vice-President Francia Márquez in Colombia, where they danced the salsa and kissed in front of the cameras during a tour in which they appeared genuinely happy.
The other major highlight of the year for the couple was the soft launch of Meghan’s lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard.
The duchess sent around samples of jam to a host of A-listers and earned a glowing tribute from Teigen, whose Instagram post read: “We jammin!! This might have been one of the best bites we’ve had all year – all we used is some rustic bread, salted butter, triple cream brie, thick cut bacon and some @americanrivieraorchard jam!
“Took about 8 mins total and made us happy for the entire weekend.”
And in December Harry’s latest Netflix show, Polo, debuted, though the reviews were scathing and it got an audience score of 27 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.
Harry and Meghan’s 2025
A calm but positive 2024 may well have been exactly what the Sussexes needed after 2023 saw a major backlash over their broadsides against King Charles III‘s monarchy and the collapse of their Spotify deal.
However, 2025 will likely see the end of another era as their Netflix deal is expected to wind up, with Meghan still due to release a new lifestyle show.
There was also previously talk of Harry and Meghan adapting the hit romance novel Meet Me at the Lake by Carley Fortune, though there has been no casting news or release date since the initial reports.
One major question for the couple is what they do once Netflix expires and whether they will try to land a new deal.
The couple have been hanging out with Brian Robbins, Paramount Pictures CEO and Nickelodeon president, and his wife Tracy Robbins, including at the premiere of reggae biopic Bob Marley: One Love, in Jamaica, in January.
Fans may therefore keep an eye on the Sussexes 2025 for any signs they might jump ship to Paramount, which would also allow them to spin the end of their Netflix deal as their decision to depart, rather than the streamer’s decision to terminate a multi-year deal.
Whether they head to Paramount or not though, jumping ship to any other TV platform will inevitably mean negotiating a new deal and that will mean new content.
And TV executives would no doubt want some idea of what that content would be, meaning they would need pitches strong enough to land them the kind of paycheck they need to fund their substantial annual bill for private security.
That process could be a major test of whether the royal bombshells that defined three years of their lives from 2021 to 2023 really are a thing of the past—or whether the need for a new substantial paycheck might force the couple to offer something slightly more compelling than their other non-royal Netflix projects.
Harry & Meghan, in December 2022, flew to the top of the Netflix charts, making it hugely commercially successful, but they were criticized for re-hashing their Oprah Winfrey interview and royal broadsides.
Their other Netflix shows, Live to Lead, Heart of Invictus and Polo, steered clear of controversy but did not cause a major splash, suggesting they have so far failed to demonstrate they have top-tier commercial value outside the royal soap opera.
Another major change for them will be the full launch of American Riviera Orchard, expected in 2025.
Significant time has already passed since the soft launch but Meghan will also be under pressure to get the project right at a time when the couple’s overall brand is perceived as flailing.
The exact shape of the business is not yet clear and it may go significantly further than selling homemade jam.
Fans will be eager to see where Meghan takes it and whether there is a tie-in with the lifestyle show that is expected to hit Netflix.
Jack Royston is chief royal correspondent for Newsweek, based in London. You can find him on X, formerly Twitter, at @jack_royston and read his stories on Newsweek‘s The Royals Facebook page.
Do you have a question about King Charles III and Queen Camilla, Prince William and Princess Kate, Meghan and Harry, or their family that you would like our experienced royal correspondents to answer? Email royals@newsweek.com. We’d love to hear from you.
2024 has been a year of major milestones and changes for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and as the year comes to a close, it seems that they are at a major turning point in their lives.
From stepping back from their royal duties and moving to the United States, to launching their own charitable foundation and signing major deals with Netflix and Spotify, the couple has been busy reshaping their roles and carving out a new path for themselves.
As they close out the year, it’s clear that Prince Harry and Meghan are no longer bound by the constraints of their royal duties and are instead focused on using their platform for positive change and making a difference in the world.
With their growing influence and commitment to causes such as mental health, gender equality, and environmental conservation, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as they continue to navigate their new roles as private citizens and public figures.
2024 may be coming to an end, but it seems that Prince Harry and Meghan are just getting started on the next chapter of their lives.
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Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, royal family, Duke and Duchess of Sussex, 2024, major turning point, royal news, celebrity news, British royals, Sussexes, royal events, royal milestone, royal couple, end of year, British monarchy, royal updates, Harry and Meghan news.
Easy Trip Planners co-founder and promoter Nishant Pitti sold a 1.4 per cent stake in the travel aggregator for ₹78 crore through an open market transaction on Tuesday, December 31, reported the news agency PTI citing NSE data.
Ease Trip Planners is the parent company of the online travel bookings platform EaseMyTrip.
The bulk deal data shows that Nishant Pitti offloaded 4.99 crore shares or 1.41 per cent stake in Easy Trip Planners on Tuesday, reported the agency citing the National Stock Exchange.
The stake was disposed of at an average price of ₹15.68 per share, taking the transaction value to ₹78.32 crore, as per the news report.
After the open market transaction, Pitti’s holding in Easy Trip Planners fell to 12.8 per cent from the earlier level of 14.21 per cent, according to the news report. Along with Pitti’s holdings, the combined promoter stakeholding in the company also dropped to 48.97 per cent from its earlier 50.38 per cent levels.
Ease Trip Planners Ltd shares closed 6.92 per cent lower at ₹15.87 after Tuesday’s trading session, compared to ₹17.05 at the previous market close. The company’s shares opened 7.5 per cent lower today and then declined to 10% losses for the intraday session.
The sharp crash in Easy Trip Planner shares came amid reports that the company’s promoter and co-founder Nishant Pitti will sell off his remaining 14.21 per cent stake in the company via a block deal in Tuesday’s trade.
Arunaben Sanjaykumar Bhatiya picked up 2.40 crore shares of Easy Trip Planners at an average price of ₹15.86 per share. This transaction took the deal value to ₹38.06 crore, according to the news report.
Details of the other buyers of Easy Trip Planners’ shares could not be ascertained on the NSE, according to the news agency.
Earlier in September 2023, Nishant Pitti sold its 14 per cent stake in the company via open market transactions for ₹920 crore.
Easy Trip Planners, one of India’s leading online travel agencies, saw its co-founder Nishant Pitti offload a 1.4% stake in the company for a whopping ₹78 crore. The move came as a surprise to many, as Pitti had been a key figure in the company’s growth and success.
Following the news of Pitti’s stake sale, shares of Easy Trip Planners closed 6.92% lower on the stock market. Investors and analysts alike are now speculating on the reasons behind Pitti’s decision to sell a portion of his stake in the company.
While some believe that Pitti may be looking to diversify his investment portfolio, others are questioning if there are underlying issues at Easy Trip Planners that prompted the stake sale.
Regardless of the reasons behind Pitti’s move, one thing is clear – Easy Trip Planners will continue to be a major player in the online travel industry, with or without Pitti’s continued involvement. Investors will be keeping a close eye on the company’s performance in the coming months to see how this development impacts its future growth.
We’ve watched the rocks glitter at the gem show, we’ve survived the summer heat, we’ve stuffed our faces at Tucson Meet Yourself.
It’s official. We’re at the end of 2024.
From parties with champagne toasts and lots of music, to kid-friendly activities and fancy dinners, here’s where to say goodbye to 2024 and hello to 2025.
Roger Clyne in 2022 at the Taco Bell NYE Bowl Bash.
Provided by Kym Adair
Taco Bell New Year’s Eve Downtown Bowl Bash
Arizona Bowl is hosting their annual party in downtown Tucson, complete with music, a silent disco, food trucks and beer stations. Fireworks and the big taco drop (yes, they’ll drop a giant taco, similar to the ball in Times Square) will happen when the clock strikes midnight.
One of the biggest parties of the year is happening on NYE at Hotel Congress, as the local landmark transforms into an intergalactic rodeo. Expect live entertainment, specialty drinks and a champagne toast.
Step into Short Rest Tavern, a hidden bar tucked inside Tucson Mall’s Tucson Games and Gadgets, for a night of games and costumes. Compete in the costume contest, sing your heart out during karaoke and play nerdy trivia. Cornhole and other games, along with a midnight toast, are part of the fun. Expect themed drinks at the bar!
Waila band Gertie & the T.O. Boys will be at Cafe Santa Rosa’s New Year’s Eve party. Also in store for the night: menudo, champagne and a midnight balloon drop.
This Latin dance party at The Rialto will feature Tucson’s own Orkesta Mendoza, Ruta Verbena and Salvador Duran. Masks and 1940s attire are encouraged.
The Loft Cinema is ringing in the New Year with a screening of “The Princess Bride,” featuring a costume contest, a champagne toast and props to use during the movie.
This is for those folks who just can’t make up their minds. Instead of hitting one party or one bar, your NYE Bar Crawl pass takes you to 10 including Playground, Sky Bar, Bawker Bawker, O’Malley’s, Playground and HighWire. Your pass gets you special prices on specialty drinks and food beginning with the pre-party at Corbett’s at 8 p.m.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with wine and music, courtesy Arizona Wine Collective. Expect a live performance from Desert Music Project alongside a tasting of four sparkling wines.
Elliott’s is celebrating New Year’s Eve with happy hour specials until closing time. Expect a DJ starting at 9 p.m., along with a champagne toast at midnight.
Bella Sanders, 8, pets a stingray inside the stingray exhibit at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, 2021 N. Kinney Road, on March 30, 2022.
Rebecca Sasnett, Arizona Daily Star
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
Visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum to watch a giant dinosaur egg drop into 2025 during this Noon Year’s Eve party. Activities include face painting, a live show in the Warden Oasis Theater, crafts and games.
Ring in the New Year and bring the family to this event for live country music, crafts, photo ops, unlimited rides on the Ferris wheel and train, and a balloon drop and apple cider toast when the clock hits noon.
Tap & Bottle’s north location is hosting a family-friendly Noon Year’s Eve party with music from Mr. Nature and a balloon drop. Adults will get a complimentary champagne toast.
Park Place is hosting a Noon Year’s Countdown for the whole family, complete with a fashion show and family photos, a family dance party, dozens of interactive events including games and activities for younger kids and a sparkling cider toast at noon, when the mall counts down to its balloon drop in center court.
Couples can dine at Charro Steak & del Rey this New Year’s Eve, including entrees like bacon-wrapped lobster tail or tomahawk steak with bacon-wrapped shrimp. End your dinner with a complimentary toast!
Hacienda del Sol is ringing in the New Year with a night of dinner and dancing. Dinner is four courses with options that include beef tenderloin, monkfish, New York strip and duck breast.
The NYE dinner at Westward Look includes beef Wellington bites, pistachio soup, crab-stuffed dover sole and Osso Buco. After dinner, the resort is hosting a party with live music, a dessert station and champagne.
Loews Ventana Canyon Resort has three New Year’s Eve options for you: a special dinner menu alongside live music at their Flying V restaurant; light bites, cocktails, a midnight toast and live music at Cascade Lounge; or a dinner buffet at The Canyon Club.
When: Tuesday, Dec. 31. 5-10 p.m. at Flying V; 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. at Cascade Lounge (music is 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.); 5-10 p.m. at The Canyon Club.
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As 2024 comes to a close and we gear up to welcome 2025, Tucson is buzzing with exciting New Year’s events to help you ring in the new year in style. From festive parties to family-friendly celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the top events happening in Tucson to close out 2024 and welcome 2025:
1. New Year’s Eve Gala at Hacienda Del Sol Resort: Enjoy an elegant evening of dinner, dancing, and live music at the beautiful Hacienda Del Sol Resort. This black-tie event includes a gourmet dinner, open bar, and champagne toast at midnight.
2. Downtown Block Party: Head to downtown Tucson for a lively block party featuring food trucks, live music, and a fireworks display at midnight. This family-friendly event is a great way to celebrate with loved ones.
3. New Year’s Eve Bash at Casino Del Sol: Dance the night away at the Casino Del Sol’s New Year’s Eve bash, featuring live music, gaming, and a champagne toast at midnight. Don’t miss the spectacular fireworks show to welcome 2025.
4. New Year’s Day Polar Plunge at Catalina State Park: Start the new year off with a refreshing dip in the icy waters of Catalina State Park’s annual Polar Plunge. This fun event is a great way to kick off 2025 with a splash.
5. New Year’s Day Brunch at Arizona Inn: Indulge in a delicious brunch buffet at the historic Arizona Inn to celebrate the first day of the new year. Enjoy live music, bottomless mimosas, and a beautiful setting to start 2025 on a high note.
Whether you’re looking for a glamorous night out or a casual celebration with friends and family, Tucson has plenty of New Year’s events to choose from. Don’t miss out on the fun as we close out 2024 and welcome 2025 in style!
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As he announced on December 21 while presenting the new Action Plan in schools, during a conversation with parents of students, Prime Minister Edi Rama has reiterated that he will stand by the decision to close the TikTok social network in Albania.
At the year-end conference with journalists, the head of government clarified that it will take at least 6 weeks to implement the decision, which will be in force for one year.
“We have a situation that you know about Tik Tok. We do not move from the decision we have made and as I have warned, it is a decision for the implementation of which we will need 6 to 8 weeks because technologically this time is very important”, said Rama.
We recall that in his speech 9 days ago, the prime minister announced that the government will close TikTok for a year, since according to Rama, “you see all kinds of perversity and thuggery” on this social network.
“Within some time, all schools will have smart programs. This is a program that will start to be implemented. We will make it possible for parents to have their child on video and for any problem, the directorate will have opportunities for children and parents. It is much stronger, much more influential, much more attractive that neighborhood thug who has it on his phone called TikTok. TikTok is the street of the neighborhood. We are afraid when the child is accompanied by him when he leaves the house. We will close TikTok for 1 year. Streets, perversity, scum and everything, what you don’t see on China’s Tik Tok”, said Rama. /Telegraph/
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has made it clear that the government will not back down from its decision to ban TikTok in the country. In a recent statement, Rama announced that the popular video-sharing app will be shut down within the next 6-8 weeks.
Despite facing backlash from TikTok users and the broader public, Rama emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting young people from harmful content on the platform. He stated that the decision to ban TikTok was made in the best interest of the country’s youth, and that the government will not hesitate to take further action if necessary.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions from the public, with some supporting the government’s decision and others expressing disappointment over the loss of a popular social media platform. However, Rama remains firm in his stance, stating that the ban will be enforced without compromise.
As the deadline for TikTok’s closure approaches, many Albanians are left wondering how this decision will impact their online activities and social interactions. Only time will tell what the future holds for TikTok users in Albania, but for now, it seems that the government’s decision is final.
Officially, in the U.S. there are 12 federal holidays in a year, along with numerous religious holidays, lots of “faux” holidays and unofficial holidays (we’re looking at you, Super Bowl Sunday).
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are among the biggest holidays of the year — and a total magnet for grocery shopping.
If you’re anticipating a last-minute grocery store run on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day — forgot the Champagne? Need orange juice for mimosas? Need more hors d’oeuvres? — you’re in luck. All Publix locations will be open both holidays, but with some limitation. The Lakeland-based grocery store chain employs more than 255,000 people with almost 1,400 stores in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Florida is home to more than 874 stores as of December 2024.
Is Publix closed on holidays?
Of all the holidays throughout the year, Publix stores are only closed three days a year: Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. Publix locations in Florida are open on federal holidays such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, July Fourth and Labor Day, though some locations may close early. The grocery chain does close early on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, posting open and closing times on signs in their stores before the holidays. Shoppers can select Publix locations online for specific store hours and other details.
A notice on Publix’s corporate site states: “Since our founding, we have been closed on these three holidays in observance of the holiday and to allow our associates time with family and friends.”
Will Publix be open on New Year’s Eve 2024? Is Publix open Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024?
Yes. Publix locations in Florida will be open at regular hours on New Year’s Eve and close up shop a little early, 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, which is Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024.
Will Publix be open on New Year’s Day 2025? Is Publix open Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025?
All Publix locations will be open on New Year’s Day, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025, though according to its website, Publix stores in Florida will close early, but specific times were not mentioned. Shoppers are encouraged to check their local Publix location for specific closing times.
Typically, Publix stores are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, with some locations open an hour later.
When are Publix liquor stores open? When does Publix Liquors close on New Year’s Eve 2024?
Publix liquor stores typically are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. For Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, or New Year’s Eve, Publix Liquor stores in Florida will open at 10 a.m. and close at 9 p.m.
Like the main grocery, Publix Liquor stores are closed for Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. Regular store hours will apply for Publix Liquor locations — 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
When are Publix pharmacies open?
Publix pharmacies usually are open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., but some sites may vary. Publix pharmacies are also closed for Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter.
How to contact Publix?
You can call Publix customer service at 800-242-1227 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday and 9 to a.m. to noon Saturday. Publix maintains customer service on social media, too, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET daily (including holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day and Easter) with direct messaging to @PublixHelps on Twitter and Facebook.
As we ring in the new year, many of us may be wondering about Publix hours on Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, New Year’s Eve. Whether you need to do some last-minute shopping or pick up some party supplies, it’s important to know when your local Publix store will be closing.
While Publix stores typically have varying hours on holidays, it’s likely that most locations will close earlier than usual on New Year’s Eve. To find out the specific hours for your local Publix store on Dec. 31, 2024, we recommend checking the store’s website or giving them a call.
Remember to plan ahead and make sure you have everything you need before the stores close for the holiday. Wishing you a safe and happy New Year’s Eve celebration!
Logan Thompson: 14-2-2, 2.38 GAA, .916 save percentage
Game notes
One more time in 2024! This calendar year has had its ups and downs for the Bruins, but they’ll have a chance to head into 2025 on a positive note if they can win this afternoon.
These two teams last faced each other a little more than a week ago, a 4-1 Bruins win at TD Garden. That game was one the B’s better all-around games of the season, a game in which they allowed less than a dozen shots on goal. Here’s to hoping they can replicate that success.
In that game, the Bruins faced Charlie Lindgren, who has split time in the crease with Logan Thompson but has been second-best for the Caps. Lindgren started the Caps’ loss to Detroit on Sunday, so I’d imagine we’ll see Thompson today.
Alex Ovechkin, who recovered from a broken leg at warp speed, continued his assault on the all-time goals record, humbly scoring in each of his first two games back. The Russian Machine has seven goals in his last four games on either side of the injury.
After spending much of the season at the top of the NHL’s standings, the Caps now find themselves second in their division after New Jersey’s recent strong run of play. Still, the Caps remain a top-five team in both team offense (3rd at 3.67 GF/G) and team defense (5th at 2.64 GA/G), so it’s not like they’ve cooled off all that much.
As you’ve heard by now, the Bruins returned Fabian Lysell to Providence after his NHL debut on Saturday night.
In case you forgot and want to watch some other hockey today as well, this year’s Winter Classic will take place at 5 PM this evening at Wrigley Field in Chicago, with the Blackhawks facing the Blues.
That game will feature a slight Bruins-related wrinkle, as Jim Montgomery and Claude Julien (assistant with the Blues) will be able to say they coached games in two of America’s most famous stadiums.
(I also had no idea Claude was an assistant with the Blues. The more you know, etc.)
See ya tonight today!
The Boston Bruins will be heading to the nation’s capital to close out the year 2024 with a matinee matchup against the Washington Capitals. This will be a crucial game for the Bruins as they look to secure a spot in the playoffs and build momentum heading into the new year.
The Bruins have had a solid season so far, with key players like Patrice Bergeron and Charlie McAvoy leading the way. However, they will need to bring their A-game against the Capitals, who are always a tough opponent.
The Capitals, led by superstar Alex Ovechkin, have been playing well and are currently sitting at the top of the standings. This will be a challenging test for the Bruins, but they have shown that they can compete with the best teams in the league.
Fans can expect an exciting and fast-paced game as these two teams battle it out on the ice. Will the Bruins come out on top and close out the year with a win, or will the Capitals prove to be too much to handle? Be sure to tune in to find out!
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are this week, which for millions of Americans means celebrating the turn of the year with family and friends and preparing for 2025.
Most grocery, retail and restaurant chains will remain open on New Year’s Eve, albeit with adjusted hours, and some will shut their doors on New Year’s Day.
Here’s what we know about plan for Costco warehouse stores on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
When do Costco stores open and close on Dec. 31?
If you need to make a last-minute trip to pick up some party supplies, Costco will be an option for you this year, as the company’s warehouses will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve.
Warehouses will be closed on Jan. 1, according to the company’s website.
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What grocery stores are open on New Year’s Eve?
The following grocery stores will be open on New Year’s Eve. Hours are listed for the companies that provided them.
Costco: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sam’s Club: Stores will close at 6 p.m.
Walmart
Kroger family of stores
The Kroger family of stores includes: Baker’s, City Market, Dillons, Food 4 Less, Foods Co, Fred Meyer, Fry’s, Gerbes, Jay C Food Store, King Soopers, Kroger, Mariano’s, Metro Market, Pay-Less Super Markets, Pick’n Save, QFC, Ralphs, Ruler, Smith’s Food and Drug.
Food Lion
Publix: Stores will close at 7 p.m.
Meijer: 6 a.m. to midnight
Whole Foods: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Trader Joe’s: Stores will close at 5 p.m.
Aldi
Harris Teeter
Wegmans: Stores will close at 8 p.m.
Winn-Dixie: Stores will close at 10 p.m.
What retail stores are open on New Year’s Eve?
Walmart
Target: Stores will close at 9 p.m.
Kohl’s: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
TJ Maxx: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
HomeGoods: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Marshall’s: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Best Buy
JCPenney: Open at 11 a.m., closing times vary by location
Nordstrom: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Home Depot: Stores will close at 6 p.m.
Lowe’s: Stores will close at 6 p.m.
Ace Hardware
REI: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Bass Pro Shop: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cabela’s: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Burlington: Stores closing at 10 p.m.
Belk: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Big Lots: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sephora
Ikea: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Staples: Stores will close at 6 p.m.
Office Depot: Stores will close at 6 p.m.
OfficeMax: Stores will close at 6 p.m.
PetSmart: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
PetCo: Stores will close at 7 p.m.
Tractor Supply Co.: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X @GabeHauari or email him at Gdhauari@gannett.com.
Looking to visit a warehouse on December 31st? Make sure to check the operating hours before you go! Here’s a list of some popular warehouses and their opening and closing times for December 31st:
1. Costco: Most locations will be open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on December 31st.
2. Walmart: Many Walmart Supercenters will be open 24 hours on December 31st, but be sure to check with your local store for specific hours.
3. Home Depot: Home Depot stores will be open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm on December 31st.
4. Target: Target stores will be open from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm on December 31st.
5. Best Buy: Best Buy stores will be open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on December 31st.
Be sure to double-check with the specific warehouse location you plan to visit, as hours may vary. Happy shopping!
