AP Economics Witer WASHINGTON (AP) – The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits fell last week to a still-high 712,000, the latest sign that the U.S. economy and job market remain under stress from the intensified viral outbreak. Thursday’s report from the Labor Department said that initial claims for jobless aid dropped from 787,000…… MORE
New Rule Cracks Down On Emotional Support Animals On Planes
UNDATED (AP) – Say goodbye to emotional-support animals in airplane cabins. The Transportation Department issued a final rule Wednesday covering service animals. The rule says only dogs can qualify, and they have to be specially trained to help a person with disabilities. For years, some travelers have been bringing untrained dogs and all kinds of…… MORE
Rittenhouse Due in Court in Wisconsin for Preliminary Hearing
KENOSHA, Wis. (AP) — A 17-year-old from Illinois accused of killing two men during an August protest in Wisconsin was due in court Thursday for a preliminary hearing in the case. Kyle Rittenhouse, of Antioch, is also charged in the wounding of a third person on Aug. 25 during a night of unrest in Kenosha…… MORE
Congress Haggles Over New COVID Relief Bill; Houston Approves $1200 COVID Aid Checks
HOUSTON (AP) – The Houston City Council has approved a relief fund that will provide thousands of residents struggling financially during the coronavirus pandemic with a one-time $1,200 payment that can be used for rent, food or other needs. The program, approved on Wednesday and to be paid for by nearly $30 million in federal…… MORE
Austin Mayor Vacationed In Mexico While Urging People to Stay Home
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Austin Mayor Steve Adler went on vacation to Mexico with family in November as he urged people to stay home amid worsening coronavirus caseloads in Texas, at one point recording a video during the trip in which he told residents back home that now was “not the time to relax.” The…… MORE