Tag Archives: participating

NBA Announces Punishment for Title Contender for Violating Policy

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The NBA has come down hard on the Cleveland Cavaliers for load-managing its two All-Stars, Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley, during a game against the Miami Heat on November 12. In a press release on Tuesday, the NBA announced a $100,000 fine against the Cavaliers for sitting Mitchell and Mobley when both were healthy to play. “The NBA announced today that the Cleveland Cavaliers have been fined $100,000 for violating the league’s Player Participation Policy. The violation occurred when the Cavaliers held Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley, who are both star players under the Policy, out of the team’s game against the Miami Heat on Nov. 12 for rest. “The Policy, which was adopted prior to the 2023-24 season, is intended to promote participation in the NBA’s regular season.” Cavaliers Could Be in 2026 NBA Finals The NBA implemented its Player Participation Policy in 2023 to address the leaguewide trend of star players participating in load management, particularly in games against weaker opponents, on the second night of back-to-backs or towards the end of the 82-game season. However, the league mandate has not prevented teams from routinely sitting out their best players, as the Cavaliers did on November 12. The Cavaliers last year finished with a 64-18 record, clinching the No. 1 seed in the East. And yet, they were eliminated in the second round by the Indian Pacers, in most part due to untimely injuries sustained by Mobley, Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen. As such, the Cavaliers, the odds-on favorites to represent the East in the 2026 NBA Finals, will likely ramp up their load management this year, to ensure their team is fully healthy entering the postseason next April. NBA’s Load-Management Problem Michael Jordan, who played all 82 games nine times in his career, is among the old heads who are appalled by teams routinely resting star players. During his appearance on NBC Sports’ “MJ: Insights to Excellence” last month, the G. O. A. T. did not hold back on his criticism of modern players and teams. “I never wanted to miss a game because it was an opportunity to prove. It was something that I felt like the fans are there that watch me play. I want to impress that guy way up on top who probably worked his (butt) off to get a ticket or to get money to buy the ticket.” Jordan recalled many nights when he willed himself to play, just so he could help his teammates by being on the floor and serving as a decoy for opponent defenses. “I was going to find a way to get out there, even if I was a decoy,” he recalled. “Well, once I got out there, you never know how pushing yourself you never know what happens, right? “Next thing you know, the emotions, the situation, the need of the team. All those things catapulted me to: ‘I’m going to gut this thing out.’”.
https://heavy.com/sports/nba/nba-punishment-cavaliers/

Miss Universe judge resigns ahead of pageant, claims Top 30 ‘pre-selected’ by ‘impromptu jury’

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Miss Universe judge Omar Harfouch has abruptly resigned from the pageant’s official jury just days before this year’s competition is set to kick off on Nov. 21. Harfouch took to his Instagram Stories on Tuesday to claim that the Top 30 finalists had been chosen in secret long before the judges ever cast a vote. His exit has sparked a wave of confusion and frustration among contestants, many of whom say they learned about the alleged pre-selection online rather than from the Miss Universe Organization itself. Harfouch claimed he discovered that an “impromptu jury” had already chosen which contestants would move forward out of the 136 women competing. According to him, some people within this unauthorized group had personal ties to participating contestants including individuals responsible for counting votes and handling results. He argued that such connections created an undeniable conflict of interest. Harfouch also claimed that the existence of this alleged secret jury came to his attention through social media rather than any internal Miss Universe communication. “The results of this selection are currently being kept secret,” he wrote. When Harfouch pushed for answers, he said the organization responded by posting a list of names involved in the process without explaining what those people actually did. He described the move as an attempt to quiet criticism without offering any meaningful clarification and, after what he described as a tense exchange with Miss Universe leadership, ultimately stepped away from the panel. “After having a disrespectful conversation with [Miss Universe CEO] Raul Rocha about the lack of transparency in the Miss Universe voting process, I decided to resign from the jury and refuse to be part of this charade,” Harfouch announced. Harfouch also announced that he was withdrawing the musical performance he had prepared for the competition. The Miss Universe Organization, meanwhile, quickly rejected his allegations and insisted that its procedures remain legitimate and tightly controlled. “The Miss Universe Organization firmly clarifies that no impromptu jury has been created, that no external group has been authorized to evaluate delegates or select finalists, and that all competition evaluations continue to follow the established, transparent, and supervised MUO protocols,” the organization said in a statement. “Given [Mr. Harfouch’s] expressed confusion, his public mischaracterization of the program, and his stated desire not to participate, the Miss Universe Organization respectfully acknowledges his withdrawal from the official judging panel,” the pageant added. This wouldn’t be the first controversy to unfold just days before this year’s Miss Universe pageant kicks off on Nov. 21.
https://nypost.com/2025/11/18/entertainment/miss-universe-judge-resigns-ahead-of-pageant/

UFC 322 live blog: Jack Della Maddalena vs. Islam Makhachev

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This is the UFC 322 live blog for the highly anticipated welterweight championship main event bout between Jack Della Maddalena and Islam Makhachev, taking place Saturday at Madison Square Garden in New York.

Islam Makhachev currently holds the No. 1 spot in MMA Fighting’s Pound-for-Pound Rankings, while Jack Della Maddalena is ranked No. 8.

Della Maddalena (18-2) captured the welterweight title this past May with a thrilling decision victory over Belal Muhammad. For his first title defense, he faces off against Makhachev, the former lightweight king who hasn’t lost a fight since 2015.

“JDM” has been on an incredible run himself, boasting an unbeaten 8-0 record in the UFC and extending his overall professional win streak to 18. After suffering defeats in his first two pro bouts, Della Maddalena discovered a winning formula and hasn’t looked back.

For Makhachev (27-1), this fight is an opportunity to cement his legacy and join the ranks of the sport’s immortals by becoming a rare two-division champion.

Makhachev, a close friend and protégé of Khabib Nurmagomedov, continued the legacy at lightweight by winning the title in 2022 and successfully defending it four times — a UFC record. This isn’t his first championship superfight; two of his title defenses came against featherweight legend Alexander Volkanovski. This time, Makhachev is moving up in weight class, determined to prove that size doesn’t matter.

Stay tuned to this UFC 322 live blog for all the latest updates and in-depth coverage of Della Maddalena vs. Makhachev.
https://sports.yahoo.com/article/ufc-322-live-blog-jack-050501043.html

After Whitelist Maxes Out & Presale Rapidly Grows, Milk Mocha ($HUGS) Becomes 2025’s Most Talked-About Meme Coin Launch

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**The Milk Mocha (UGS) Whitelist Officially Maxed Out, Sparking One of 2025’s Most Intense Buying Rushes**

The Milk Mocha (UGS) whitelist has officially reached capacity, igniting one of the most intense buying rushes of 2025. Fans and traders who secured whitelist access are now actively participating in the live presale, driving unprecedented demand throughout the crypto market.

Accessible, inclusive, and built around a global brand boasting millions of fans, UGS has now entered its live presale phase. With the whitelist officially closed, only early participants gained first-entry advantage, while new buyers are joining at the next stage price.

The countdown is on, and those who hesitate risk missing the biggest feel-good success story of 2025 — a story powered by emotion, transparency, and token utility that goes far beyond hype.

—

### Whitelist Closes & UGS Presale Takes Center Stage

The UGS whitelist sold out faster than anyone anticipated, closing within hours and igniting one of the most energetic presale launches of the year. Milk Mocha’s fanbase — from casual collectors to serious crypto traders — has driven massive activity during the live presale, with new participants rushing to secure tokens before the next price increase.

Whitelist participants received early access to the 40-stage presale, starting at just $0.0002 per token. New buyers are now purchasing at higher price rounds as the presale progresses.

To reinforce scarcity and long-term sustainability, unsold tokens are burned weekly. The excitement has clearly shifted from registration to accumulation, and the market response proves UGS is far more than a passing trend.

—

### A Token With Real Utility Beneath the Adorable Surface

Milk Mocha’s cuddly charm might catch your eye, but UGS is much more than a meme token. It anchors a comprehensive ecosystem featuring staking, NFTs, governance, and interactive rewards — all designed for genuine, long-term engagement.

Holders can earn up to 60% APY through flexible staking options that include daily compounding and instant reward access. Every transaction, from NFT purchases to community activities, contributes to deflationary burns that reduce the overall token supply.

The result is a balanced, sustainable model that rewards participation rather than mere speculation. This combination of emotional appeal and real-world mechanics has made UGS one of the standout presales of 2025.

While other meme coins fade shortly after launch, Milk Mocha’s token is engineered to grow — proving that the right mix of structure, scarcity, and sentiment can turn even a cartoon bear duo into a blockchain powerhouse.

—

### From Comics to Crypto: The Power of a Loyal Community

Milk Mocha’s rise didn’t begin on the blockchain. It started with heartfelt comics, viral stickers, and a devoted global fanbase spanning social media, LINE, and physical storefronts worldwide.

That loyalty now forms the backbone of the UGS ecosystem, transforming casual fans into active stakeholders. One of the strongest community drivers is the 10% lifetime referral bonus program, which rewards users for every friend they bring into the presale.

Additionally, the HugVotes governance system empowers holders to influence NFT designs, game integrations, and community initiatives. This isn’t just about trading tokens — it’s about joining a movement.

Every holder becomes a participant in Milk Mocha’s next chapter, where fandom meets finance and love turns into liquidity.

—

### Final Thoughts

With the whitelist phase now behind it, UGS is deep into its live presale — entering the next stage of growth. Prices rise progressively with each round, rewarding early participants and reinforcing the project’s deflationary structure.

Analysts forecast a potential ROI of 150x to 200x for early buyers as staking, NFT utilities, and gaming integrations continue to unfold.

Between 60% APY staking, NFT-driven incentives, and governance through HugVotes, UGS offers both fun and functionality. Its no-KYC structure and global accessibility have fueled one of the fastest presale surges of 2025.

The window to join is narrowing as prices rise with each presale stage. For fans and traders alike, joining now means becoming part of this year’s most heart-driven crypto success.

In a market often defined by fleeting trends, Milk Mocha’s UGS proves that loyalty and smart tokenomics never go out of style.

—

**Explore Milk Mocha Now:**
Website: [Insert Website URL]
X (Twitter): [Insert X Handle]
Telegram: [Insert Telegram Link]
Instagram: [Insert Instagram Link]
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/crypto/after-whitelist-maxes-out-presale-rapidly-grows-milk-mocha-hugs-becomes-2025s-most-talked-about-meme-coin-launch/

Veterans Day 2025 in South Florida: Ceremonies, patriotic music & a parade to honor military service

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Communities across South Florida are preparing their annual salutes to all who have helped defend and protect the United States through their military service. They will mark Veterans Day, officially observed on Tuesday, Nov. 11, to honor the end of World War I. These events provide an opportunity to pause, reflect, and say thanks to veterans while celebrating their courage and commitment.

Throughout Broward and Palm Beach counties, plans include ceremonies, music, guest speakers, honor walls, and more, scheduled to take place before and on the federal holiday. Here’s a city-by-city guide.

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## Broward County

### Coconut Creek
Dignitaries, guest speakers, the Coconut Creek Police Department Honor Guard, and the Monarch High JROTC will be part of a Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Veterans Park, 3550 Lyons Road. The city is also participating in the *Stars for Our Troops* program, which repurposes U.S. flags in honor of veterans. Donate worn flags (3-by-5 feet, made in the U.S. with embroidered stars) at the ceremony or drop off at City Hall, 4800 W. Copans Road.
[Visit coconutcreek.gov](https://coconutcreek.gov)

### Cooper City
Show your appreciation for veterans past and present during the city’s Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Memorial Park, 9001 SW 51st St.
[Visit coopercity.gov](https://coopercity.gov)

### Coral Springs
The city has planned two events to honor veterans:
– **Patriotic Community Concert:** From 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Nov. 7 at City Hall Lawn, 9500 W. Sample Road, featuring Eagles tribute band *Hotel California* and Coldplay tribute band *Life in Technicolor*. Veterans and their families will have a designated VIP area with free refreshments, commemorative lanyards, and gifts. The Honor Walk will recognize local heroes, and a letter-writing station will be set up for messages to active-duty service members. Food trucks will also be on site. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Free admission.
– **Veterans Day Ceremony:** At 10:45 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Veterans Park, 8601 Royal Palm Blvd., in partnership with the Veterans Coalition of Coral Springs.
[Visit coralsprings.gov](https://coralsprings.gov)

### Deerfield Beach
The city will hold its Veterans Day Ceremony, *A Tribute of Gratitude and Remembrance*, at 9 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Johnny L. Tigner Community Center, 435 SW Second St. Expect a ceremonial three-round volley, Presentation of Colors, guest speakers, and patriotic music.
[Visit deerfield-beach.com](https://deerfield-beach.com)

### Fort Lauderdale
The city and William C. Morris American Legion Post 36’s Veterans Day Ceremony will honor all who served at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11 at the Sandy Nininger statue along the Riverwalk, by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave. A paver will be unveiled in memory of U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Willis Rozelle Hall.
[Visit fortlauderdale.gov](https://fortlauderdale.gov)

### Hallandale Beach
The Veterans Day Salute will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. on Nov. 11 at the Cultural Community Center, 410 SE Third St., followed by refreshments.
[Visit cohb.org/veteransday](https://cohb.org/veteransday)

### Hollywood
The city is hosting two food-focused gatherings for veterans and their families:
– **Centennial Celebration: Veterans Day Barbecue:** Begins at noon on Nov. 11 at TY (Topeekeegee Yugnee) Park, 3300 N. Park Road, Corporate Pavilion 12. Veterans and active-duty members can enjoy barbecue, music, and entertainment, plus a banner plane flyover and recognition ceremony. Participants must present valid military ID, driver’s license with veteran status, or DD Form 214. Free for veterans with ID and one guest; $3 gate fee per vehicle applies to others. RSVP at 954-921-3404.
– **Seventh Annual Honoring Our Veterans Buffet Dinner:** From 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Nov. 12 at the Hollywood Hills Civic Association and Rotary Club of Hollywood headquarters, 2349 Taylor St. Features food, drinks, a raffle, color guard salute, and musical performances. Veterans will share experiences, including Honor Flight trips. Attendees are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue and bring a nonperishable canned good for the food pantry. Free admission.
[Visit hollywoodfl.org](https://hollywoodfl.org) | [Facebook.com/cityofhollywoodfl](https://facebook.com/cityofhollywoodfl)

### Lauderhill
Vice Mayor S. “Ray” Martin and the Northwest Lauderhill Neighbors Association will present the Veterans Day Ceremony from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 11 at Veterans Park, 7600 NW 50th St. The city is accepting nominations for veterans to be honored.
[Visit lauderhill-fl.gov](https://lauderhill-fl.gov)

### Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
The town’s Veterans Day Celebration will take place from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Nov. 11 at El Prado Park, 4500 El Mar Drive.
[Visit lauderdalebythesea-fl.gov](https://lauderdalebythesea-fl.gov)

### Miramar
A guest speaker and Honor Guard Presentation of Colors will highlight the city’s Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Veterans Memorial Park, 6405 Arbor Drive. Refreshments will follow.
[Visit miramarfl.gov/events](https://miramarfl.gov/events)

### Oakland Park
The city and American Legion Post 222 will honor all who served at the Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11 at the post’s headquarters, 4250 NE Fifth Ave.
[Visit Facebook.com/americanlegion222](https://facebook.com/americanlegion222)

### Parkland
The community will gather for the city’s Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Veterans Park, 6620 University Drive.
[Visit cityofparkland.org](https://cityofparkland.org)

### Pembroke Pines
Presentation of Colors, musical performances, and guest speakers will be part of the Veterans Day Ceremony at noon on Nov. 11 at the Charles F. Dodge City Center Memorial Park, 601 City Center Way.
[Visit ppines.com](https://ppines.com)

### Plantation
Elected officials and dignitaries will speak during the Veterans Day Service set for 9:30 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Veterans Park, 1776 Lauderdale West Drive. The ceremony will be livestreamed at [Facebook.com/cityofplantationfl](https://facebook.com/cityofplantationfl).
[Visit plantation.org](https://plantation.org)

### Sunrise
Veterans from all military branches are invited to the third annual Veterans Appreciation Luncheon at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Amerant Bank Arena, 1 Panther Parkway. Feeding South Florida is partnering with the Florida Panthers, Publix, Publix Charities, and others for this event, which includes a chef-prepared meal, entertainment, and recognition. Admission is free for veterans and one guest. RSVP by Nov. 9 at [feedingsouthflorida.org/vets](https://feedingsouthflorida.org/vets).

### Tamarac
A Veterans Honor Wall will be unveiled during the city’s Veterans Day Ceremony at 10:30 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Veterans’ Park, 7825 Southgate Blvd. Activities include music, remarks from dignitaries, bagpipe selections by the Celtic Bagpipe Team, and a keynote address by Army Sgt. Maj. Joseph J. Hissong. Attendees are encouraged to bring donations of toiletries, nonperishable food, socks, and hand towels for the Veterans Affairs Committee. To be included on the Honor Wall, fill out an application at [tamarac.me/honorwall](https://tamarac.me/honorwall).
[Visit tamarac.org](https://tamarac.org)

### Wilton Manors
A Veterans Day Ceremony honoring everyone who has served the country will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Nov. 11 at Hagen Park, 2020 Wilton Drive.
[Visit wiltonmanors.gov](https://wiltonmanors.gov)

—

## Palm Beach County

### Boynton Beach
The community will come together for the city’s Veterans Day Ceremony from 11 a.m. to noon on Nov. 11 at Veterans Memorial Park, 411 N. Federal Highway.
[Visit boynton-beach.org](https://boynton-beach.org)

### Boca Raton
*Red, White & Boca: A Veterans Day Celebration* will feature speakers, music, and a JROTC Presentation of Colors from 4 to 8 p.m. on Nov. 11 at Mizner Park Amphitheater, 590 Plaza Real. Other activities include the Veterans Marketplace, providing connections to service organizations, veteran-owned businesses, and sports teams, plus a Classic Car Show with vintage vehicles on the east lawn. Food vendors will be on site. Veterans may present their military or veteran ID for a free food ticket at the City of Boca Raton booth.
[Visit myboca.us](https://myboca.us)

### Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation
The county’s Veterans Day Ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Veterans Memorial Park, 9400 W. Palmetto Park Road. The schedule includes a Procession of Colors, guest speakers, patriotic music, and memorial wreath laying.
[Visit discover.pbcgov.org](https://discover.pbcgov.org)

### Delray Beach
Join the Veterans Day Ceremony at 9 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Old School Square, 51 N. Swinton Ave., to pay tribute to those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
[Visit delraybeachfl.gov](https://delraybeachfl.gov)

### Greenacres
The city’s Veterans Day Tribute at 9 a.m. on Nov. 11 will feature a Presentation of Colors, patriotic music, and guest speakers at Greenacres City Hall, 5800 Melaleuca Lane.
[Visit greenacresfl.gov](https://greenacresfl.gov)

### Lake Worth Beach
The Veterans Day Ceremony of Honor will feature guest speaker Army Maj. Andres Grisales at 2 p.m. on Nov. 8 at Bryant Park (Lake Avenue and Golfview). The Lake Worth High School JROTC Color Guard will participate, and a jump demonstration by the All Veteran Group freefall team will follow at 3 p.m.

On Nov. 11, from 5 to 7 p.m., Mayor Betty Resch will lead *Lights Across the Bridge* to light up the Lake Worth Beach Bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway. Bring flashlights and meet at the Bryant Park Bandshell.
[Visit Facebook.com/LakeWorthBeachPBC](https://facebook.com/LakeWorthBeachPBC)

### Lantana
The town’s Veterans Day Celebration will include a short ceremony honoring the brave men and women who served the country at 10 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Bicentennial Park, 321 E. Ocean Ave.
[Visit lantana.org](https://lantana.org)

### Wellington
Veterans Day activities in Wellington begin at 8:30 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Village Hall, 12300 Forest Hill Blvd., and end at the Veterans Memorial at Forest Hill and South Shore boulevards. The ceremony includes remarks by the Village Council and the placement of memorial wreaths. Active or retired veterans may register that morning at the Wellington tent to have their names recognized during the event.
[Visit wellingtonfl.gov](https://wellingtonfl.gov)

The Mall at Wellington Green, 10300 Forest Hill Blvd., has teamed with Stand Down, a nonprofit supporting veterans and their families, for three initiatives:
– Through Nov. 8, post an American flag on the Honor Wall in the City Furniture Court to honor a veteran or active military member.
– Attend the Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. on Nov. 8 in City Furniture Court featuring the Palm Beach Lakes Community High School Ram Regiment Band, posting of the colors, Pledge of Allegiance, and guest speaker remarks. Light refreshments will be served.
– The *Tree of Joy* in Grand Court displays tags listing names, ages, sizes, and holiday wishes of children from veteran families across Palm Beach County. Shoppers can select a tag, purchase a gift, and drop off donations at Starbucks by Dec. 10.

—

These Veterans Day events across South Florida honor the sacrifices and service of veterans and active-duty members, offering communities meaningful ways to show their gratitude. Plan to attend or participate in these celebrations and help recognize the dedication of those who have served our country.
https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2025/11/07/veterans-day-2025-in-south-florida-ceremonies-patriotic-music-a-parade-to-honor-military-service/

CTO Realty Growth, Inc. (CTO) Q3 2025 Earnings Call Transcript

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Operator: Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for standing by. Welcome to CTO Realty Growth’s Third Quarter 2025 Earnings Call. [Operator Instructions] Please be advised that today’s conference is being recorded.

I would now like to turn the conference over to Jenna McKinney, Director of Finance. Please go ahead, Jenna.

—

**Jenna McKinney:**
Good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining us today for the CTO Realty Growth Third Quarter 2025 Operating Results Conference Call.

Participating on the call this morning are John Albright, President and Chief Executive Officer; Philip Mays, Chief Financial Officer; and other members of the executive team who will be available to answer questions during the call.

I would like to remind everyone that many of our comments today are considered forward-looking statements under federal securities laws. The company’s actual future results may differ significantly from the matters discussed in these forward-looking statements, and we undertake no duty to update these statements.

Factors and risks that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations are discussed from time to time in greater detail in the company’s Form 10-K, Form 10-Q, and other SEC filings.

You can find our SEC reports, earnings release, supplemental information, and the most recent investor presentation on our website at [ctoreit.com](http://ctoreit.com).

With that, I will turn the call over to John.
https://seekingalpha.com/article/4834899-cto-realty-growth-inc-cto-q3-2025-earnings-call-transcript?source=feed_all_articles

20 Hissterical Halloween Costumed Cat Pics Straddling the Line Between Spooky and Cutie

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Well, well, winter sure has crept up on us without us even realizing it, hasn’t it? It feels as though, within the blink of an eye, we have found ourselves staring at a bunch of ghoulish monsters once more, as Halloween comes around for another run.

But that also means our cute cat children have been prepping for the big day. While they will likely be staying at home, judging strangers through the window, they’re certainly not missing out on the Halloween spirit.

Although they probably won’t be participating in any official costume parades, that hasn’t stopped them—and their pawrents—from pulling out all the stops when it comes to their Halloween costumes. We’ve gathered a delightful collection of hysterical Halloween-costumed cat pics that walk the thin line between spooky and adorable.

Which one is which, we’ll leave up to you to decide. But one thing is clear: cat child costumes are far better than human child costumes!
https://cheezburger.com/42958853/20-hissterical-halloween-costumed-cat-pics-straddling-the-line-between-spooky-and-cutie

BetMGM Bonus Code TOP150: Claim $150 Bonus for NCAAF Week 8

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Set up a new account and place a $10 bet on any game with BetMGM Sportsbook, a top choice for football fans this weekend. New players who pick a winner on this initial wager in Michigan (MI), New Jersey (NJ), Pennsylvania (PA), and West Virginia (WV) will receive a $150 bonus.

For new users in other states, use bonus code **TOP1500** to start with a $1,500 first bet. Take advantage of this generous welcome offer along with other exciting in-app promotions available throughout the app.

—

### How to Redeem BetMGM Bonus Code TOP150 and TOP1500

– **For players in MI, NJ, PA, and WV:**
Click [here](#) and input bonus code **TOP150** to qualify for the $150 bonus by placing a $10 winning wager.

– **For players in other eligible states:**
Click [here](#) and apply bonus code **TOP1500** to secure a $1,500 first bet.

—

### New User Offer Details

– **Bet $10, Get $150 Bonus with a Win** (Available only in MI, NJ, PA, and WV)
– **$1,500 First Bet** for new users in other states
– BetMGM will back up any losses on the initial wager up to $1,500. Players who lose will receive five bonus bets totaling their original stake.

—

### Additional In-App Promotions to Enhance Your Weekend

BetMGM Sportsbook offers plenty of opportunities beyond the sign-up bonus to boost your betting experience:

– **College Football Odds Boost Token:** Apply this token to any college football game this weekend for enhanced odds.
– **College Football Parlay Boost Token:** Opt in and obtain a parlay boost token to use throughout Saturday’s college football slate.
– **MLB Postseason Odds Boost Token:** Baseball fans can claim an odds boost token for any MLB postseason game.

—

### How to Get Started with BetMGM

Follow these straightforward steps to start betting with BetMGM Sportsbook:

1. Use the links on this page to begin your registration.
2. Enter the appropriate bonus code during sign-up—**TOP150** for Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia; **TOP1500** for other states.
3. Complete the required information fields to create your account.
4. Deposit $10 or more using one of BetMGM’s secure payment options.
5. Start placing bets on NFL, college football, MLB, NHL, or any other sport available.

—

### Important Information

– New players must be 21 years or older and located in participating states.
– Terms and conditions apply.
– Offer last verified on October 18, 2025.
– Information confirmed by WTOP.

—

**Gambling problem?** Call **1-800-GAMBLER** for help.

Start your winning streak today with BetMGM Sportsbook and enjoy both the welcome bonuses and ongoing in-app promotions!
https://wtop.com/sports/2025/10/betmgm-bonus-code-top150-claim-150-bonus-for-ncaaf-week-8/

Louis CK defends Saudi Arabia gig: ‘Felt like good opportunity’

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**Louis CK Defends Saudi Arabia Gig: ‘Felt Like Good Opportunity’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | October 6, 2025, 2:05 PM*

Emmy-winning comedian Louis CK has addressed the controversy surrounding his decision to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia. The event, which he co-headlined alongside British comedian Jimmy Carr, has faced criticism from fellow comedians for allegedly whitewashing a regime notorious for human rights abuses.

**Unexpected Audience Response**

On *Real Time With Bill Maher*, CK shared that many comedians were “really surprised” by the audience’s reaction in Riyadh. He highlighted that a Jewish lesbian comedian, Jessica Kirson, received a standing ovation during the festival. Kirson, who also performed at the event, later expressed “sincere regret” for her participation.

“There’s stuff going on that’s unexpected in this thing,” CK said. “People have been playing Saudi Arabia for years. Comedians have been going and playing Arab countries.”

**Decision-Making and Performance Guidelines**

CK revealed that organizers informed him of only two restrictions for his performance: to avoid jokes about “their religion and their government.” He noted that he didn’t have any material targeting those topics.

“When I heard it’s opening, I thought, that’s awfully interesting. That just feels like a good opportunity. And I just feel like comedy is a great way to get in and start talking,” CK explained.

**Criticism from Fellow Comedians**

Several comedians, including Marc Maron, Atsuko Okatsuka, and David Cross, have strongly criticized performers who have previously spoken out against cancel culture and censorship but chose to participate in the Riyadh festival.

David Cross published a scathing statement on his website, explicitly calling out Louis CK by name. “Clearly you guys don’t give a shit about what the rest of us think, but how can any of us take any of you seriously ever again?” he wrote.

**Defenses from Performers**

Jessica Kirson requested assurances that she could discuss her identity as a lesbian on stage before agreeing to perform. Despite her initial participation, she later expressed “sincere regret” about performing under the Saudi government’s auspices.

Comedian Burr, who performed at the festival on September 26, defended his decision, describing it as “a mind-blowing experience.” He emphasized the value of experiencing that part of the world firsthand.

Other notable comedians such as Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, Pete Davidson, and Aziz Ansari also participated in the festival, adding to the diversity of voices present.

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The Riyadh Comedy Festival continues to spark debate about the intersection of entertainment, cultural exchange, and human rights concerns in politically sensitive regions.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/louis-ck-defends-performance-at-riyadh-comedy-festival/story

Louis CK defends Saudi Arabia gig: ‘Felt like good opportunity’

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**Louis CK Defends Saudi Arabia Gig: ‘Felt Like Good Opportunity’**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Oct 06, 2025*

Emmy-winning comedian Louis CK has come forward to defend his decision to perform at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia, an event he co-headlined alongside British comedian Jimmy Carr. The festival has sparked controversy, with critics accusing participating comedians of whitewashing a regime known for serious human rights abuses.

Speaking on *Real Time with Bill Maher*, Louis CK revealed that many of his fellow comedians were “really surprised” by the audience’s response in Riyadh.

### Audience Response

CK highlighted an unexpected positive moment at the festival: a Jewish lesbian comedian, Jessica Kirson, received a standing ovation during her set. Kirson has since expressed “sincere regret” for her participation in the event. CK remarked, “So, there’s stuff going on that’s unexpected in this thing. People have been playing Saudi Arabia for years. Comedians have been going and playing Arab countries.”

### Decision-Making and Restrictions

Louis CK shared that he was informed of only two restrictions imposed on his performance — “Their religion and their government.” He admitted that he did not have jokes addressing these topics, which influenced his decision. “When I heard it’s opening, I thought, that’s awfully interesting. That just feels like a good opportunity. And I just feel like comedy is a great way to get in and start talking,” CK explained.

### Backlash from Fellow Comedians

Several comedians, including Marc Maron, Atsuko Okatsuka, and David Cross, have criticized those who perform at the Riyadh festival, especially when some of these performers have previously spoken out against cancel culture and censorship. David Cross published a scathing statement on his website, calling out Louis CK by name: “Clearly you guys don’t give a shit about what the rest of us think, but how can any of us take any of you seriously ever again?”

### Responses from Other Performers

Jessica Kirson, who performed at the festival on September 29, requested and received a guarantee to speak about her identity as a lesbian on stage. Despite this, she later expressed regret for participating under the Saudi government’s auspices.

Comedian Bill Burr, who also performed in Riyadh on September 26, defended his decision, describing the experience as “mind-blowing” and valuing the opportunity to explore that part of the world.

Other notable comedians at the festival included Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, Pete Davidson, and Aziz Ansari.

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The Riyadh Comedy Festival continues to spark debate about the balance between artistic freedom and the ethical implications of performing in countries with controversial human rights records.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/louis-ck-defends-performance-at-riyadh-comedy-festival/story