Fashion
Biden Taking Heat Over Student Debt Relief Promise
President Joe Biden touted his plan to cancel billions of dollars in student debt in the days and weeks leading up to the midterm elections as he rallied young people to support Democrats.
However, the entire initiative is now in jeopardy due to legal challenges that could mean no one receives a single dollar of debt relief. The saga is quickly becoming a headache for the administration rather than an example of how the president keeps his promises to voters.
Even though two federal courts have blocked the program’s implementation, the White House remains confident that it will prevail. However, the setbacks have alarmed supporters, who are concerned that more than 40 million Americans who expected relief will instead be billed for their student debt in January when a pandemic-era payment moratorium is set to expire.
“You can’t ask people to start repaying on a debt that shouldn’t exist,” said Melissa Byrne, a loan cancellation advocate. “We bear no responsibility for this broken system.”
The impasse has put the White House in a bind over whether to extend the moratorium if the legal battle drags on, even though Biden has stated that the pandemic, which was the original reason for the payment pause, “is over.”
Student Loan Plan Nightmare
According to the Government Accountability Office, the freeze has already cost the federal government more than $100 billion in lost revenue. Critics such as the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget are concerned that another extension will worsen inflation and increase the risk of a recession.
Republicans oppose the cancellation as an unfair handout to the wealthy, arguing that Americans who did not attend college will also bear the cost. Conservatives have launched a legal barrage against Biden’s student loan plan, claiming it exceeds the president’s authority.
Meanwhile, borrowers across the country are once again facing uncertainty. Biden’s plan would cancel $10,000 in student loan debt for those earning less than $125,000 or households earning less than $250,000. An estimated 20 million people were eligible to have their federal student debt cancelled entirely. Those who receive Pell Grants, typically given to those with lower incomes, would be eligible for an additional $10,000 in debt forgiveness.
Now, it’s unclear whether borrowers will be expected to make debt payments when the pause ends, and the political risks are increasing. Support from 43 million borrowers who have been promised at least some debt relief is at stake, including millions of younger Americans, a demographic that helped Democrats won key victories last week.
Anger directed at the Biden administration
Adwoa Asante, eligible for a $20,000 cancellation, stated that her payments would be “destabilizing” if they resumed in January. The Dallas lawyer, 33, owes $163,000 in law school debt, with monthly bills of up to $2,000.
Asante supported Biden but criticized him for reaping the benefits of his plan during the midterm elections while leaving borrowers out in the cold.
“To be honest, there’s a lot of anger directed at the Biden administration.” “I think they expected legal challenges to the student loan cancellation,” she said, calling the court challenges “to be expected.”
Cedric Richmond, a former White House official now a senior adviser to the Democratic National Committee, believes Biden will face no political consequences if the program is ultimately blocked.
If the program is eventually halted, “the blowback should go exactly where it deserves, and that’s with this rogue Supreme Court,” he said.
According to an AP VoteCast poll of more than 94,000 voters, roughly 6 in 10 voters under 45 approve of Biden’s handling of student debt. Voters were nearly evenly divided on the issue, with Democrats far more likely to approve than Republicans.
The legality of mass student loan forgiveness
Out of an estimated 43 million eligible people, nearly 26 million have already applied for debt relief. The Education Department ceased accepting new applications on Friday after a federal judge in Texas ruled against the plan.
On November 3, in New Mexico, Biden stated that he was on solid legal ground.
“We’re going to court,” he explained. We’re not going to let them get away with it.”
According to advocates, many borrowers will likely default on their student loans without the promised relief. According to a report released Tuesday, nearly half of borrowers polled by the Student Debt Crisis Center believe they cannot afford student debt payments within six months.
“Borrowers do not believe the pandemic is over, nor do they believe the economic consequences are over,” said Natalia Abrams, president of the centre. “We must put payments on hold until all legal issues are resolved.”
From the start, the legality of mass student debt forgiveness was questioned. After being elected, Biden stated that it would be preferable if the legislation came from Congress. Soon before leaving office, the Trump administration issued a memo concluding that the White House lacks broad cancellation authority.
White House erred in its Legal Reasoning.
Supporters believe Biden’s plan will survive, despite predictions that it will be heard by a Supreme Court that has shifted to the right and limited Biden’s authority in other cases. They claim that the Higher Education Act, a massive federal statute, already gives the president broad authority to cancel federal student debt.
Some groups believe Biden should use other legal means to fulfill his promise. The Debt Collective, a borrowers’ union, urges Biden to cancel debt immediately by invoking the Higher Education Act, the same legal authority first suggested by supporters such as Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren.
“He has an ace up his sleeve that he hasn’t used,” said Braxton Brewington, a collective spokesperson. “The Biden administration should avoid these lawsuits entirely.”
Some legal experts believe Biden should abandon his current strategy and start over. Jed Shugerman, a law professor at New York’s Fordham University, believes the White House erred in its legal reasoning.
“The Biden administration has run into predictable trouble,” he said. “They should start from scratch.”
Even though it would take time, Shugerman believes waiting for a Supreme Court decision is preferable. He claimed that the White House is “sticking to a sure loser” rather than “changing tracks to something that has a better chance.”
No matter how many eras, generations, or trends pass, Rolex Cellini remains one of the top wristwatch brands known for its premium status.
With its highly accurate mechanisms, the selection of top-grade durable Rolex continues to impress withers, and luxurious, standout designs continue to impress. Each collection is designed to meet tons in various fields.
In addition to the well-known Rolex models popular among professionals and investors, there’s a model that many may have overlooked or are unfamiliar with: the Rolex Cellini. This gold-accented watch is named after the famous Renaissance artist Benvenuto Cellini.
It’s like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered, and its value only continues to rise, never dropping! For Rolex enthusiasts or investors looking to learn more about Rolex’s high-end watches, the Rolex Cellini is worth exploring in this article!
The Origins of Rolex Cellini
The Rolex Cellini is one of Rolex’s collections that has been around for nearly a century, dating back to the 1920s-1960s. The name “Cellini” was chosen to honor Benvenuto Cellini, an Italian goldsmith and sculptor from the Renaissance, widely regarded as one of the most famous artists since it pays tribute to a renowned goldsmith.
The Rolex Cellini features a standout design, particularly in its highly valuable gold bezel. The overall design is simple yet classic and contemporary, emphasizing functionality with precise and clear timekeeping. Its elegant yet understated classic design makes the Rolex Cellini versatile, effortlessly matching any outfit for any occasion.
4 Popular Rolex Cellini Models with Captivating Designs
Since the 1920s-1960s and continues to the present day, Rolex Cellini has released numerous sub-models, each with a unique design and captivating storytelling behind the watch case. Look at four of the most popular Rolex Cellini models we’ve handpicked for you.
1. Rolex Cellini Time
Starting with the Rolex Cellini Time, today is considered the flagship of the Rolex Cellini collection and is a great entry point for those looking to start a collection. The watch features a 39mm case mf 18K white gold, known for its strength and value.
The case has a distinctive curved shape with a fluted bezel. The dial is simple and classic, focusing on easy time reading with just hour, minute, and second hands, along with Arabic numerals. It comes with a black alligator leather strap that is lightweight and comfortable for any occasion.
2. Rolex Cellini Danaos
Next, we have the Rolex Cellini Danaos, which shares a design similar to Ellini Time’s. It also has an 18K white gold case with curved lines, a fluted bezel, the same simple dial featuring hour, minute, and second hands, and Arabic numerals.
However, the Danaos has a smaller 36mm case, making it more compact and ideal for those seeking a more delicate watch. Inside, it uses Rolex’s automatic Calibre 3135 movement, certified by COSC for superior precision.
3. Rolex Cellini Prince
The Rolex Cellini Prince is one of the rarest models in the Cellini collection. Inspired by vintage “Doctor’s Watches, ” it features an 18K white gold case and a clear, easy-to-read dial.
However, it stands out with its rectangular shape and transparent case back, which allows a view of the intricate mechanics inside—a unique feature for Rolex. The Prince is no longer in production, making it highly sought after in the second-hand market, especially by collectors and investors.
4. Rolex Cellini Moonphase
Finally, the Rolex Cellini Moonphase (model 50535) was introduced in 2017, making it the most recent addition to the collection. As the name suggests, it is the first Cellini to feature a moon phase function, which tracks the moon’s phases.
The 39mm case is crafted from Rolex’s exclusive Everose gold, a special blend developed by the brand. The dial is lacquered white, with a stunning blue enamel display at 6 o’clock that tracks the moon phases. It even features a meteorite symbol representing the full moon, adding a unique touch not found in other models.
This exclusivity makes the Moonphase one of the priciest in the Cellini line.
Here we have the Rolex Cellini, a precious gold timepiece and one of the rarest models in the Rolex lineup. While its design—such as the simplicity of the numeral display or the understated watch strap—may not be as bold or specific as other professional Rolex models, many Cellini pieces boast a unique vintage and classic style that no other model can replicate.
For instance, the rectangular case of the Rolex Prince or the meteorite fragment on the dial of the Moonphase. Some models are even discontinued, making them even more coveted!
Rolex Cellini is an attractive choice for those passionate about Rolex or looking to invest in rare watches for future value appreciation. It stands out among other Rolex lines.
Suppose you’re searching for a reliable source to purchase Rolex watches or to check updated Rolex prices. Namsawang, the official Rolex dealer in Thailand, offers a wide selection of Rolex collections. Their experienced technicians provide full support and advice every step of the way.
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Crocs, the foam footwear company, is known for its quirky designs, which range from cowboy boots to fried chicken-scented charms. Crocs is putting its best paw forward this month with the release of a range of clogs for dogs.
Crocs has partnered with pet supply provider and subscription service BARK to develop Pet Clogs as part of their annual “Croctober” campaign, which features a fan-inspired product.
New Croc Clogs Mean Matching Togs For Your Dogs
Companies frequently release promotional or limited-time merchandise to increase brand awareness. Special flavors of sodas or candies, collaborations with influencers or other brands, and even items that aren’t meant to be taken seriously can all help a company gain attention and stand out in a crowded marketplace among shoppers fighting inflation and looking to stretch their dollars.
“(The market) is returning, from my perspective, to what it was before the pandemic, which is that key promotional periods are extremely important,” CEO Andrew Rees told analysts during an earnings call in August. “We believe you have to participate in those promotional periods to get your fair share of consumer spending.”
Americans have spent more money on their pets during the last decade. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, pet expenses climbed by 77.9% between 2013 and 2021.
Pet owners spent a total of $147 billion on pet-related expenses in 2023, with that figure expected to rise to $150.6 billion this year, according to the American Pet Products Association.
However, observers believe Crocs’ entry into the pet industry is more than simply another eye-catching marketing stunt; it is a show of the power of its devoted fan base.
The Power of Fandom
Despite — or perhaps because of — regular ridicule from fashionistas, Crocs has carved out a niche for themselves in mainstream culture. Its meme status and proclivity for going viral are aided by star-studded collaborations from Justin Bieber to Bad Bunny.
And sales of the footwear brand skyrocketed in 2020, owing to the increase of casual fashion during the pandemic.
“Crocs has a very strong base of fans, and it is very good at engaging with them via social channels and marketing campaigns,” said Neil Saunders, a retail analyst at GlobalData.
New Croc Clogs Mean Matching Togs For Your Dogs
If you need proof of the power of its fans, look at how rapidly limited-edition releases sell out. In 2021, a pair of adult clogs modeled by the Disney/Pixar character Lightning McQueen from the film “Cars” sold out in less than an hour after debuting on the Crocs website.
Crocs’ continued success with its fans, which Saunders described as “cult-like,” may be due to its active interaction with its consumers, making even the most seemingly ludicrous fan requests a reality (see: Crocs inspired by the DreamWorks movie character “Shrek”).
According to Saunders, the introduction of Pet Crocs, which the business describes as “one of the most highly requested products in brand history,” is another move aimed at younger, more social media-savvy consumers.
SOURCE | CNN
Curiously enough, despite the arrival of the smart watch with all its multitasking allure and its flashy functionality, mechanical watches have grown a lot in popularity over the past few years.
And though the Quartz revolution has made watches so much more affordable and accessible to everybody, the advance in manufacturing technology has brought to us in recent decades some outstanding mechanical timepieces that rival the affordability of higher-end Quartz ones.
If you’re looking for a mechanical watch that is worth it and is also affordable, you’ve come to the right place because today, we’re going to be listing the best mechanical watches in 2024.
Best Mechanical Watches
Seiko Recraft
The Seiko Recraft is a wacky collection, out of which we prefer the SMK P27 with its lovely green dial and the rectangular case shape with slightly curved edges. It’s a rarity in the watch world, a vintage-inspired timepiece, reminiscent of the 1970s. The watch comes with only 50 meters of water resistance, an automatic movement without hacking function and without hand winding, and just a mineral crystal hard lex protecting the dial, but it’s an impressive timepiece nonetheless, and it costs a humble $275.
Tissot Everytime Swissmatic
An elegant and affordable piece that costs around $400. It’s one of the best mechanical timepieces you can get for the money. The simplicity of its dial, the clean and minimalistic esthetic with that lovely contrast between the stark the dial and the silver hue of the case, hands and indices, really make for a stunning watch. And inside, there’s a reliable Swiss automatic movement with a hearty power reserve of 70 hours with an accuracy of plus or minus 10 seconds a day, proving to be quite a capable mechanical caliber, especially for that price.
Citizen NJ0100 Automatic
One of the big Japanese names in affordable watches is Citizen and their NJ0100 Automatic proves to be quite a sight, powered by a Myota 8210 automatic movement with a water resistance of 50 meters. The price doesn’t exceed $150, so it’s perfect, but the fact that it’s an older model and not in production anymore makes it a little harder to find. But if you look around the internet, you should find plenty.
Seiko Presage Cocktail Time Blue Moon
The Seiko Presage Cocktail Time Blue Moon is a real stunner. It may be a little more expensive at $440, but still on the affordable side, and it’s worth all those bucks. It comes in a 40.5 millimeter stainless steel case with an automatic four R-3-5 movement as it’s ticking hot, reliable, and with a 41-hour power reserve. But the most captivating part of this timepiece is that dark blue sunburst style, giving the watch an artistic and captivating look.
Tufina Sahara Mechanical
The Tufina Sahara is among the most popular mechanical watches out there, one with a dressy look and plenty of variants to choose from. Our favorite is the rose gold one, which boasts a remarkable silver dial with an intricate skeleton composition, playing with light in such a way that it creates a mesmerizing show. On the technical side, it comes powered by a mechanical movement with 17 rubies, a 3 ATM water resistance, rhodium plated case, Alpha photoluminescent hands and a superb sapphire coated lens protecting the dial. The thin bezel and classic guarded crown gives this watch a very elegant look, and the fact that you can find it for about $990 makes it that much more appealing.
Orient Kamaso
The Orient Kamaso is a worthy divers watch, bringing some impressive features for less than $300. The sapphire crystal glass, for example, is a rare feature on affordable watches. Then there’s the rugged stainless steel case that is depth rated for 200 meters, another feature that usually comes with higher price tags. When it comes to appearance, the Kamaso has a stunning black, blue, red, or green sunburst dial, complemented by the rotating vessel, finished in the same color. Under the dial, there’s an automatic Orient Calibur F692, a movement that’s said to be reliable and accurate.
Dan Henry 1970 Automatic Diver
Remaining in the diving watch world, the Dan Henry 1970 Automatic Diver, a tribute to the Compressor case dive watchers that were the thing back in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It comes with the Seco NH-3 five automatic movement, water resistance of 200 meters, and in two case sizes, 40 millimeters and 44 millimeters. What we’re most impressed with is the beautiful and refreshing dial. It’s a classic, but it’s also one that departs from the similar designs that most divers have.
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