Skip to main content

Featured

Italy Advances Tougher Measures on Migrant Arrivals

ILE PHOTO: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni attends a bilateral meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance (not pictured), during his visit to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, February 6, 2026.  Italy’s government has approved a new migration bill that would grant authorities the power to impose temporary naval blockades during periods of intense pressure on the country’s borders. The proposal, backed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, is designed to curb irregular sea crossings by restricting access to Italian territorial waters. The draft law would allow officials to bar vessels from entering for up to 30 days, with the option to extend the measure to six months if national security or public order is deemed at risk. The plan also strengthens border surveillance, increases penalties for human smuggling, and expands the list of offenses that can lead to deportation. Supporters argue the move is necessary to manage migration flows more effectively, whi...

article

Holiday Gifting on a Budget: Tips and Tricks

 


The holiday season is a time for giving, but it can also be a time of financial stress. If you’re looking for ways to save money on holiday gifts this year, you’re not alone. Here are some tips and tricks to help you stay within your budget while still giving thoughtful and meaningful gifts:

  1. Set a budget: Before you start shopping, decide how much you can afford to spend on gifts. Make a list of everyone you need to buy for and allocate a specific amount for each person.

  2. Shop early: Start your holiday shopping early to avoid last-minute impulse buys. This will give you time to compare prices and find the best deals.

  3. Get creative: Consider making your own gifts or giving gifts of service, like a homecooked meal or a night of babysitting. These gifts can be just as thoughtful and meaningful as store-bought gifts.

  4. Shop smart: Look for deals and discounts on holiday gifts. Many online retailers offer payment plans, which can help you spread out the cost of your purchases. You can also consider buying second-hand items or shopping at discount stores.

  5. Communicate with loved ones: Let your loved ones know if you’re planning to go without gift-giving, or purchase smaller gifts to stay within budget, and ask that they do the same for you. Some friends and family might welcome the opportunity to cut back or consider alternatives to gift giving.

Remember, the holidays are about spending time with loved ones, not about how much you spend on gifts. With a little creativity and planning, you can give thoughtful and meaningful gifts without breaking the bank.


 

Comments