Teen who mysteriously died on Carnival Cruise was straight-A student planning to join military

A teen passenger who mysteriously died on a Carnival cruise ship was a bubbly, straight-A student with hopes of joining the military, her loved ones said.

Anna Kepner, 18, had been aboard the Carnival Horizon, which returned to Miami from the Caribbean on Saturday, when she passed away, according to authorities and her family. The circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear.

Authorities have released few details, including the exact time of her death or who she was traveling with at the time.

Her grief-stricken family has since paid tribute to Anna, affectionately known as “Anna Banana.”

“She was a people person,” the family told ABC News. “She loved being around people. She had that type of energy that just drew you in with her smile and the way she carried herself. She was such an easy person to talk to.”

The teen, who was set to graduate from high school in May, had recently started the process of joining the military.

“She had just finished taking the test to join the military,” the family said. “She was already talking to recruiters and had chosen her career path. She wanted to do something that would help her community.”

Kepner was a gymnast and varsity cheerleader who, her family said, would light up any room she walked into.

“If you were sad, she’d make you laugh. She would joke around and be the funniest little person in school,” they shared. “She was the best child you could ever meet.”

Carnival Cruise Line confirmed the passenger’s death but stopped short of releasing further details. The cruise line noted it is working with the FBI to investigate the incident.

“Our focus is on supporting the family of our guest and cooperating with the FBI,” the company said in a statement.

FBI Miami spokesperson James Marshall stated that the office responded to the scene but provided no additional information.
https://nypost.com/2025/11/10/us-news/teen-who-died-on-carnival-cruise-was-straight-a-student-planning-to-join-military/

Digital Euro Faces Uncertain Future as Brussels Rethinks Its Purpose

The European Union’s Digital Euro Faces a Critical Crossroads

The European Union’s long march toward a digital euro has hit a crossroads. In Brussels, lawmakers are debating whether the continent even needs a central bank digital currency or if private innovation might already be fulfilling that role.

For years, the European Central Bank (ECB) has envisioned a public digital currency that would anchor Europe’s payment system in the 21st century. But a new parliamentary proposal could dramatically slow that momentum.

A Conditional Approach to the Digital Euro

The initiative, introduced by Fernando Navarrete of Spain’s center-right EPP group, argues that a digital euro should only exist if the private sector fails to build a seamless European payment network. In other words, the ECB’s project would become a backup plan, not the default future.

If approved, this “conditional” approach would redefine the EU’s digital finance agenda by prioritizing commercial innovation before central-bank intervention.

Private Competition First

Navarrete’s draft report envisions a “market test” before any online version of the digital euro goes live — a process that would require Brussels to confirm the absence of a pan-European retail payment system before giving the ECB the green light.

His argument is straightforward: if companies can deliver efficient, borderless payment systems on their own, there may be no reason to spend billions of euros building a state-run alternative.

“The ECB has been calling for a solution — public or private — to connect Europe’s payment systems,” Navarrete told reporters. “The private market should have the first chance to do that.”

Concerns and Criticism

Critics warn that this approach could derail years of technical and political progress.

The ECB views the digital euro not as competition to banks but as a guaranteed European alternative to U.S.-based payment networks such as Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal.

A Split Vision for Europe’s Money

The timing of Navarrete’s report has raised eyebrows. It arrived just as the ECB announced plans to begin pilot testing the digital euro in 2027, with a possible rollout in 2029.

This coincidence underscores a growing divide between the bloc’s technocrats, who want to move forward swiftly, and lawmakers, many of whom fear the ECB is moving too fast without sufficient proof of public need.

Navarrete insists he is not trying to kill the project. “I’m not for or against the digital euro,” he said. “But we must ensure stability and proportionality.”

The Offline Digital Euro Compromise

While the online version faces pushback, Navarrete’s plan supports developing an offline digital euro. This version would function more like digital cash stored locally on secure devices and transferrable even without internet access.

He argues this offline model would preserve Europeans’ right to hold central bank money “under all circumstances” without destabilizing the banking sector.

The report also calls for strict limits on how much digital euro any one person can hold — a safeguard against deposit flight from commercial banks during periods of stress.

ECB’s Response and Next Steps

The ECB has responded cautiously, describing the proposal as a “constructive step” toward Parliament’s position while reaffirming its commitment to completing preparatory work.

“Europe needs a payments system that works everywhere and for everyone,” said Executive Board Member Piero Cipollone, adding that the digital euro project remains vital for economic sovereignty.

Despite this, the central bank faces an uphill political battle. With several parties skeptical about the necessity of a digital euro, reaching consensus could take years. Legislative negotiations are not expected to conclude before mid-2026.

Between Sovereignty and Market Reality

Europe’s digital currency debate captures a larger philosophical divide: Should the future of money be designed by central banks or discovered by the market?

For ECB supporters, a digital euro symbolizes independence — a European answer to American and Chinese payment dominance.

For skeptics, it is a bureaucratic solution in search of a problem.

Navarrete’s proposal effectively challenges the ECB to prove its relevance: if private firms can unify Europe’s fragmented payment systems, the digital euro may never need to exist.

Whether that bet pays off will depend not on ideology, but on what happens first — innovation from the market, or exhaustion from Brussels.

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice.

Source: Coindoo agencies.

https://coindoo.com/digital-euro-faces-uncertain-future-as-brussels-rethinks-its-purpose/

Steelers Predicted to Find Darius Slay Replacement

The Pittsburgh Steelers secondary has been a significant disappointment through the first seven weeks of the 2025 NFL season. Despite adding veterans Jalen Ramsey and Darius Slay over the offseason to bolster the backfield, the duo of former All-Pros has not led to markedly improved results.

The struggles were especially evident in what many are calling the secondary’s worst performance of the season against the Cincinnati Bengals. In light of this, Pro Football Network’s Ian Cummings projects the Steelers to focus on strengthening their secondary in the upcoming offseason through the draft.

In his latest mock draft released Saturday, Cummings predicted that the Steelers will select Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy in the first round. Highlighting the urgency for the team, he wrote, “Unexpected circumstances have positioned the Steelers as the favorites to win the AFC North and secure a postseason berth in 2025, but there’s still work to do before this team is a sustained contender year in and year out. Adding youth at CB is one such key.”

With the Steelers aiming to solidify their defense, the addition of young, talented cornerbacks like McCoy could be crucial to their long-term success.
https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/darius-slay-nfl-draft-rumors-news/

$75,000 A Year Is How Much An Hour? and Best Jobs To Give You 75K

Making a yearly income of $75,000 seems like a good deal, but is it really enough? Do you know how much you have and owe at the end of each pay period? Or are you wondering: **$75,000 a year is how much an hour?**

In this article, you will find out how much $75,000 is hourly, daily, weekly, biweekly, and monthly. We will also factor in several other variables that affect your income and offer some tips on how to live within your salary. Read on.

## $75,000 a Year Is How Much an Hour?

A $75,000 yearly salary translates to approximately **$36.06 or $36 an hour**.

To calculate this, first find the total number of hours worked in a year. Assuming you work full-time:

– 5 working days each week
– 8 hours per workday
– 40 hours per week (5 days × 8 hours)
– 52 working weeks in a year

Total working hours per year = 40 hours/week × 52 weeks = **2,080 hours**

Then, divide your annual salary by total working hours:

“`
$75,000 / 2,080 = $36.06 per hour
“`

If you have a part-time job working 4 hours a day instead of 8, your total annual pay will also be halved to $37,500. With 1,040 working hours per year (4 hours/day × 5 days/week × 52 weeks), your hourly rate remains roughly the same:

“`
$37,500 / 1,040 = $36.06 per hour
“`

## $75,000 a Year Is How Much After Taxes?

When you earn $75,000 a year, your take-home pay typically ranges between **$55,286 and $59,995** after taxes, depending on your location and personal circumstances.

Different U.S. states have different tax rates:
– Texas has no state income tax
– Colorado has a flat income tax rate
– California has a graduated tax rate

Other deductions include federal taxes, Social Security, and Medicare.

For example:
– In California, after deducting $19,714 in taxes, your net annual income is approximately **$55,286**.
– In Texas, with only $15,006 in total taxes, your net take-home pay is **$59,995**.

For part-time workers earning $37,500:
– California taxes of approximately $6,875 bring your net pay to **$30,625**.
– Texas workers would take home around **$31,891** after $5,609 in taxes.

## $75,000 a Year Is How Much per Month?

Dividing $75,000 by 12 months gives a **monthly gross income of $6,250**.

Tax deductions vary by state:
– In California, monthly taxes are approximately $1,643, leaving a **net monthly income of $4,607**.
– In Texas, monthly taxes are around $1,250, with a **net monthly take-home of $5,000**.

Part-time workers earning $3,125 gross monthly income will take home:
– $2,552 in California (after $573 in taxes)
– $2,658 in Texas (after $467 in taxes)

## $75,000 a Year Is How Much per Week?

To calculate weekly gross pay:
“`
$75,000 / 52 weeks = $1,442.31 per week
“`

After taxes:
– California residents pay $379 weekly in taxes, resulting in **$1,063 net weekly income**.
– Texas residents pay $288 in taxes, taking home **$1,154 weekly**.

Part-time workers earning $721 gross weekly income take home:
– $589 in California (after $132 taxes)
– $613 in Texas (after $108 taxes)

## $75,000 a Year Is How Much Biweekly?

Multiply your weekly gross income by two:
“`
$1,442 × 2 = $2,884 biweekly gross pay
“`

After taxes:
– California: $984 deducted, with a **net biweekly pay of $1,900**.
– Texas: $731 deducted, leaving a **net biweekly pay of $2,153**.

Part-time biweekly gross income is $1,442, with net pay around:
– $1,063 in California (after $379 taxes)
– $1,154 in Texas (after $288 taxes)

## $75,000 a Year Is How Much per Day?

Your gross daily income is based on 8 working hours:

“`
$36 per hour × 8 hours = $288 per day
“`

After taxes:
– California residents take home about **$212 daily** (after $75.63 in taxes).
– Texas residents take home about **$230 daily** (after $57.58 taxes).

Part-time workers working 4 hours daily at $36/hour earn $144 gross daily income. After taxes:
– California: $118 net daily pay (after $26.38 taxes).
– Texas: $122 net daily pay (after $21.53 taxes).

### Important Note:

These figures may vary based on your exact tax situation and work attendance. Using a free tax calculator during tax season and when planning finances is highly recommended to better understand your true income.

## Tips for Living on $75,000 a Year

### 1. Saving
Aim to save at least 10% to 15% of your income for future needs. Consider investing your savings to grow your wealth over time.

You can also save money through cashback apps such as:
– **Rakuten:** Earn cashback while shopping at over 3,500 stores.
– **MyPoints:** Earn points by shopping and doing surveys.
– **Fetch Rewards:** Earn points redeemable as gift cards or cash.

### 2. Investing
Invest wisely in stocks, cryptocurrency, or other platforms after thorough research. Investment options include:
– **M1 Finance:** Invest in stocks and ETFs with as little as $100.
– **EstateGuru:** Crowdfunding real estate investment platform.
– **Mintos:** Peer-to-peer lending platform offering cashback incentives.

### 3. Avoiding Debt
Avoid unnecessary debt to preserve your income. Use savings instead of loans to purchase luxuries.

### 4. Budgeting
Create a monthly budget that allocates:
– 10% to 15% for food
– 15% to 20% for utilities
– 5% to 10% for personal entertainment
– 10% to 15% for savings and investments

### 5. Cutting Expenses
Manage subscriptions and bills wisely. Apps like **Trim** can help negotiate bills and cancel unused subscriptions to save money.

### 6. Engaging in Online Money-Making and Side Hustles
Boost your income through side gigs such as:
– Freelance work on Fiverr, Upwork, or FlexJobs
– Online tutoring on platforms like Magic Ears
– Delivery services with DoorDash or Postmates
– Content creation on YouTube or blogging via BlueHost hosting
– Pet sitting or dog walking with Rover
– Data entry jobs from home
– Flipping items for profit on Craigslist, eBay, or Amazon
– Taking online surveys via Swagbucks, InboxDollars, and Survey Junkie

## What Jobs Pay $75,000 a Year?

Here are some careers with median salaries at or above $75,000:

– **Commercial Pilots:** Median salary $78,740 | Growth rate: 4%
– **Detectives and Criminal Investigators:** Median salary $79,970 | Growth rate: 5%
– **Elevator Installers and Repairers:** Median salary $79,480 | Growth rate: 12%
– **Funeral Service Managers:** Median salary $78,040 | Growth rate: 7%
– **Power Plant Operators:** Median salary $77,180 | Growth rate: 1%

## Is $75,000 a Year a Good Salary?

Yes, $75,000 annually is considered a good salary, especially if you manage your expenses wisely. Living in states with low tax rates further improves your purchasing power.

While $75,000 is around the average annual salary for Americans, it can comfortably cover basic expenses and allow for some personal entertainment.

## Can You Live on $75,000 a Year?

If you live alone, $75,000 can provide a very comfortable lifestyle. For families, the luxuries might be fewer, but the salary will generally cover all your basic needs.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### $75,000 a Year Is How Much an Hour?
Approximately $36 per hour based on 2,080 working hours annually.

### How Much Will I Take Home if I Earn $75,000?
If taxed at a 25% overall rate, your take-home pay will be roughly **$56,250**. This varies by state and personal deductions.

### What Is the Tax on $75,000 a Year?
Here are approximate annual taxes by state for a $75,000 salary:
– New York: $19,161
– New Mexico: $18,092
– New Hampshire: $15,006
– Nevada: $15,006
– Nebraska: $19,051
– Montana: $19,084
– Massachusetts: $18,914

### Is $75,000 a Year Considered Middle Class?
Yes. According to Pew Research Center, the middle-class income range in America is approximately $46,000 to $126,000, with 52% of Americans falling into this category.

## Conclusion

Earning $75,000 a year provides a solid gross income. You can expect to make approximately **$6,250 per month** before taxes, with net monthly income varying from $4,607 to $5,000 depending on your state.

Understanding how much you earn per hour, day, week, or month—both pre- and post-tax—helps you manage your finances better and live within your means.

If you find it challenging to cover expenses on your current salary, consider exploring side hustles or investment options to boost your income.

For more information on pay scales and managing your finances, be sure to check out our related posts.

*Thank you for reading!*
https://radicalfire.com/75000-a-year-is-how-much-an-hour/

Baker Mayfield’s wife Emily reveals Bucs QB’s personality trait that makes him ideal father figure

Baker Mayfield has been married to his wife, Emily Mayfield, for more than five years, and they share a healthy relationship. The couple often publicly express their appreciation for one another. Emily frequently compliments the quarterback’s game-day outfits on Instagram, while Baker admires her during interviews.

Beyond being partners, Baker and Emily are parents to their daughter, Kova, who was born in April 2024. She holds a special place in her father’s heart, a bond Emily discussed in detail on “Monday Night Countdown.”

During the interview, Baker joined Emily, and host Michelle Beisner-Buck asked Emily what kind of dad she felt Baker has been to Kova. Emily praised Baker for being “such a good dad” and highlighted a key character trait that makes him an ideal father.

“I’ve always said it,” Emily shared. “Baker is not for everyone. He’s a little polarizing on the field. He’s kind of hard and harsh in certain circumstances, but he’s such a softy, so I knew he’d be a good dad.”

Emily also described the special bond Baker shares with Kova and their dynamic as father and daughter. “But he has that little girl wrapped around his finger, and it’s a very sweet dynamic they have,” she said. “She loves her daddy.”

### How Baker and Emily’s Romance Began

Baker Mayfield also reflected on his early dating days with Emily, revealing the challenges he faced to win his first date. According to the quarterback, it was an old friend from The University of Oklahoma, Patrick Haye, who played matchmaker by approaching Emily to get her number.

“Patrick, of course, being a good friend, asked her if I could have her number,” Baker recalled. “She said no. So, I went to Instagram, hit the follow button, no follow back. Hit the unfollow button, hit the follow again, and no follow back. Tried to slide into the DMs, no response. At this point, feeling pretty rejected. Finally, you (Emily) gave Patrick the ‘OK, I can get your number.’”

The couple dated for almost six months before getting engaged. They tied the knot in July 2019 in a romantic ceremony at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, exchanging vows in a beautiful setting.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-baker-mayfield-s-wife-emily-reveals-bucs-qb-s-personality-trait-makes-ideal-father-figure

Teen seriously injured in Wake County shooting

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — The Wake County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating after a teenager was shot on Monday afternoon.

Deputies responded around 1 p.m. to the 4200 block of Ruby Drive near Raleigh, where they found a juvenile suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was immediately taken to a hospital with serious injuries.

Law enforcement officials remained at the scene to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The sheriff’s office confirmed that there is no known threat to the community at this time.

No further details have been released. Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the Wake County Sheriff’s Office at (919) 856-6911.

ABC11 continues to track crime and safety updates throughout Raleigh and your neighborhood.

https://abc11.com/post/teen-injured-wake-county-shooting/18045726/

Several hurt after apartment balcony collapses in Cincinnati

At least 10 people were injured when the wooden balcony of a third-floor apartment collapsed Friday evening in Cincinnati, Ohio, officials said.

Cincinnati Fire Chief Frank McKinley told reporters that the balcony gave way at an apartment complex in the Corryville neighborhood, located just off the campus of the University of Cincinnati.

Chief McKinley said 10 people were rushed to local hospitals, with at least one sustaining life-threatening injuries. The exact conditions of the victims were not immediately provided.

The circumstances leading up to the collapse remain unknown. “From what we’re being told, it was a gathering, many of these individuals were students,” McKinley said. “We don’t have the detailed information of what was actually being celebrated.”

It is also unclear how many people were on the balcony at the time of the collapse. The situation is under investigation, and the university has been notified.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/several-hurt-apartment-balcony-collapses-university-of-cincinnati/

Junior High School Girl Dies After Fall From Building in Kabukicho

The accident occurred shortly after 5 p.m. on October 13th in Shinjuku Ward. A girl fell from a landing on a building staircase and collided with a man in his 20s who was on the ground below.

It is believed that the girl jumped intentionally. She was taken to a hospital but was pronounced dead.

The man suffered head injuries; however, his life is not in danger.

Investigators have indicated that the girl may have consumed an excessive amount of over-the-counter medication. The Metropolitan Police Department is currently working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/147273.php

Manchester synagogue attacker ‘may have been influenced by extreme Islamist ideology’, police say – as three more arrested on suspicion of terror offences following knife rampage

The terrorist behind the Manchester synagogue attack may have been influenced by “extreme Islamist ideology,” police have said.

Syrian-born Jihad al-Shamie, 35, was shot dead just minutes after he unleashed a murderous rampage on Heaton Park Synagogue yesterday morning.

In an update tonight, police announced they had arrested three more people on suspicion of terror offences in connection with the attack that left two people dead. This brings the total number of people in custody to six, with the latest suspects identified only as a man and two women, aged between 18 and their mid-40s.

Detectives also revealed that al-Shamie was seen acting suspiciously near the synagogue about 15 minutes before the attack. Police said the suspect, who was born in Syria but granted British citizenship as a teenager, was confronted by security before he walked away.

He then returned at 9:31 a.m. in his car, and after ramming it into crowds of worshippers, he started stabbing people at random.

Two men, Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66, died in the attack. Three other men remain in hospital with serious injuries.

Laurence Taylor, head of counter terrorism at Greater Manchester Police, said:
“We have been told from witness accounts that a man was seen acting suspiciously outside the synagogue before he was confronted by security and walked away. Based on the information we have at this time, we don’t believe this was reported to Greater Manchester Police because the man had left the area. Around 15 minutes later, the individual returned in a vehicle and began his horrific attack.”

He added:
“At this stage, we believe Al-Shamie may have been influenced by extreme Islamist ideology. Establishing the full circumstances of the attack is likely to take some time.

We have now arrested three further people, one man and two women, aged between 18 and mid-40s. This brings the number of people in custody arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation and instigation of acts of terrorism to six. We will be seeking warrants of further detention for all six individuals and will seek to issue an update on this later.”

It comes as Greater Manchester Police confirmed that two innocent victims sheltering in the synagogue were hit by rounds discharged by armed officers. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) tonight said they are investigating the use of lethal force by Greater Manchester Police firearms officers.

IOPC Director Emily Barry said:
“This was a tragic incident that has had a devastating impact on so many people in Manchester and beyond. Families have lost loved ones and communities have been rocked by a senseless act of violence, which police are treating as terrorism. Our thoughts are with all those affected.

Police investigations are ongoing and there are measures in place to ensure our enquiries do not get in the way of the vital work being done to keep people safe. However, we are also required to ensure there is an independent investigation to understand the circumstances that have led to the use of lethal force by police.

This includes the decision to deploy armed officers and the use of force against the suspected attacker. At this time, the officers involved are being treated as witnesses to our investigation. As with all our investigations, this will remain under review as we continue to gather evidence.”

Mr. Daulby, 53, is believed to have been shot by police while attempting to prevent al-Shamie entering the synagogue during the car and knife attack. He was killed together with Mr. Cravitz, 66, from Crumpsall, who was working as a security guard at the synagogue and also helped prevent the attacker entering the premises.

A tribute provided by Mr. Daulby’s family said:
“Adrian Daulby was a hero and tragically lost his life in the act of courage to save others. He was a beloved brother, loving uncle to his four nieces and one nephew, and a cherished cousin. The family is shocked by the tragic, sudden death of such a lovely, down-to-earth man.

His final act was one of profound courage and he will forever be remembered for his heroic act on Thursday, October 2, 2025.”

A member of the synagogue’s executive, Brian Bell, said Mr. Daulby was shot as he was holding a door shut, adding that he was “an unassuming member of the synagogue who actually rose to the terrible danger, because he ran to close all the doors, back and front.”

Mr. Cravitz’s family said in their tribute that he was “kind” and “caring” and was “devoted” to his wife and family.

A statement read:
“Melvin would do anything to help anyone. He was so kind, caring and always wanted to chat and get to know people. He was devoted to his wife, family and loved his food. He will be sorely missed by his wife, family, friends and community.

We ask for privacy as we try to come to terms with this shocking loss.”

Earlier today, it emerged that al-Shamie was on police bail for an alleged rape when he carried out the attack. It is also thought that the killer had additional criminal convictions, although he was not being monitored by British counter-terrorism officers.

Al-Shamie was also struggling with debt after splitting up with his wife and young son, the Daily Mail can reveal. He had been living with his mother and one of his two brothers at his old family home on Langley Crescent in Prestwich, Greater Manchester.

Neighbours in the quiet cul-de-sac said that al-Shamie appeared to be “a bit of a loner,” and was often seen in traditional Islamic clothes and lifting weights in the garden.

Al-Shamie’s father, Faraj Al-Shamie, issued a statement on behalf of his family, saying the “terrorist attack targeting a Jewish synagogue has been a profound shock to us.”
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15160653/Police-arrest-three-people-suspicion-terror.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490