By JOE REEDY AP Sports Writer

Fans will have to Google it beginning next season if they want to access the NFL's “Sunday Ticket” package.

The
 NFL announced an agreement on Thursday for Google to distribute the 
package of out-of-market Sunday afternoon games on YouTube TV and 
YouTube Primetime Channels.

The seven-year deal is worth a little 
more than $2 billion per season. The package has been on DirecTV since 
1994. The satellite provider has paid $1.5 billion per year on an 
eight-year contract that expires at the end of this season.

The 
NFL had been seeking $2.5 billion per season for the package. It could 
still reach that total since the league retains commercial rights to 
bars and restaurants and is in the midst of selling those rights.

Commissioner
 Roger Goodell said during an interview with CNBC over the summer that 
the next move for “Sunday Ticket” would be to a streaming service 
because that would be the best option for fans.

Goodell reiterated that with Thursday's announcement.

“For
 a number of years we have been focused on increased digital 
distribution of our games and this partnership is yet another example of
 us looking towards the future and building the next generation of NFL 
fans," he said in a statement.

It is the second time in less than 
two years that the NFL has partnered with a streaming service to air 
games. The league’s 11-year contract with Amazon Prime Video for 
Thursday night games started this season.

Besides Amazon, Apple and ESPN also expressed interest in “NFL Sunday Ticket.”

“As
 the ways fans enjoy NFL football evolve in a changing media landscape, 
partnerships with innovators like YouTube will ensure that more games 
are available to more fans," said New England Patriots owner Robert 
Kraft, who is also chairman of the NFL’s media committee. “This 
partnership will grow our game for future generations and allow them to 
follow their favorite sport.”

The NFL has had a presence on 
YouTube since 2015, when it launched its official NFL channel. That has 
increased to include channels for all 32 teams and 10 official league 
channels, including NFL Films, NFL Network and Mundo NFL.

NFL Network and NFL RedZone have been available to subscribers of YouTube TV since 2020.

“Through
 this expanded partnership with the NFL, viewers will now also be able 
to experience the game they love in compelling and innovative ways 
through YouTube TV or YouTube Primetime Channels," YouTube CEO Susan 
Wojcicki said in a statement. "We’re excited to continue our work with 
the NFL to make YouTube a great place for sports lovers everywhere.”

Starting
 next season, “NFL Sunday Ticket” will be available as an add-on package
 on YouTube TV and standalone a la carte on YouTube Primetime Channels.

Google
 said in June that YouTube TV, which was launched in 2017, had surpassed
 5 million accounts and was the biggest internet-based pay TV service in
 the U.S. That number includes users on free promotional trials.

YouTube
 Primetime Channels, which launched in November, is a service that 
allows users to subscribe and watch content from streaming services on 
the YouTube app.

Even with “Sunday Ticket” moving to YouTube, the 
price is not expected to substantially decrease due to contracts with 
CBS and Fox, which carry the Sunday afternoon games.

Viewers pay around $300-$400 a season for the package, which averages 2 million subscribers.

By JOE REEDY AP Sports WriterFans will have to Google it beginning next season if they want to access the NFL's “Sunday Ticket” package.The
 NFL announced an agreement on Thursday for Google to distribute the 
package of out-of-market Sunday afternoon games on YouTube TV and 
YouTube Primetime Channels.The seven-year deal is worth a little 
more than $2 billion per season. The package has been on DirecTV since 
1994. The satellite provider has paid $1.5 billion per year on an 
eight-year contract that expires at the end of this season.The 
NFL had been seeking $2.5 billion per season for the package. It could 
still reach that total since the league retains commercial rights to 
bars and restaurants and is in the midst of selling those rights.Commissioner
 Roger Goodell said during an interview with CNBC over the summer that 
the next move for “Sunday Ticket” would be to a streaming service 
because that would be the best option for fans.Goodell reiterated that with Thursday's announcement.“For
 a number of years we have been focused on increased digital 
distribution of our games and this partnership is yet another example of
 us looking towards the future and building the next generation of NFL 
fans," he said in a statement.It is the second time in less than 
two years that the NFL has partnered with a streaming service to air 
games. The league’s 11-year contract with Amazon Prime Video for 
Thursday night games started this season.Besides Amazon, Apple and ESPN also expressed interest in “NFL Sunday Ticket.”“As
 the ways fans enjoy NFL football evolve in a changing media landscape, 
partnerships with innovators like YouTube will ensure that more games 
are available to more fans," said New England Patriots owner Robert 
Kraft, who is also chairman of the NFL’s media committee. “This 
partnership will grow our game for future generations and allow them to 
follow their favorite sport.”The NFL has had a presence on 
YouTube since 2015, when it launched its official NFL channel. That has 
increased to include channels for all 32 teams and 10 official league 
channels, including NFL Films, NFL Network and Mundo NFL.NFL Network and NFL RedZone have been available to subscribers of YouTube TV since 2020.“Through
 this expanded partnership with the NFL, viewers will now also be able 
to experience the game they love in compelling and innovative ways 
through YouTube TV or YouTube Primetime Channels," YouTube CEO Susan 
Wojcicki said in a statement. "We’re excited to continue our work with 
the NFL to make YouTube a great place for sports lovers everywhere.”Starting
 next season, “NFL Sunday Ticket” will be available as an add-on package
 on YouTube TV and standalone a la carte on YouTube Primetime Channels.Google
 said in June that YouTube TV, which was launched in 2017, had surpassed
 5 million accounts and was the biggest internet-based pay TV service in
 the U.S. That number includes users on free promotional trials.YouTube
 Primetime Channels, which launched in November, is a service that 
allows users to subscribe and watch content from streaming services on 
the YouTube app.Even with “Sunday Ticket” moving to YouTube, the 
price is not expected to substantially decrease due to contracts with 
CBS and Fox, which carry the Sunday afternoon games.Viewers pay around $300-$400 a season for the package, which averages 2 million subscribers.

NFL 'Sunday Ticket' headed to YouTube beginning next season

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Police Department Lt. Tim Greenwood shares ways to stay safe while shopping for gifts this holiday season.

<div><iframe title="Stay safe while holiday shopping with these tips from the Hays Police Department" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=5k6aa-133dfaa-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Police Department Lt. Tim Greenwood shares ways to stay safe while shopping for gifts this holiday season.

🎙 Post Podcast: Stay safe while holiday shopping with these tips from the Hays Police Department

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=4pmny-133dea0-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.

🎤 Forward Ever: Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly

On this episode of the Post Podcast, Glen McNeil shares information about holiday snacking during our Nutrition, Health and Wellness report.

<div><iframe title="Holiday treats okay, when eaten in moderation" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=nkwkg-133c0ce-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Glen McNeil shares information about holiday snacking during our Nutrition, Health and Wellness report.

🎙 Post Podcast: Holiday treats OK — in moderation

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kidney donor and Hays Middle School assistant principal Shauna Zweifel.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oruRTdNgg2U" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kidney donor and Hays Middle School assistant principal Shauna Zweifel.

🎤 Forward Ever: Kidney donor, Hays assistant principal Shauna Zweifel

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Teacher, coach and author Rick Keltner.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rr0JlNypUF0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Teacher, coach and author Rick Keltner.

🎤 Forward Ever: Teacher, coach and author Rick Keltner

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22MARK%20KENNEDY%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By MARK KENNEDY AP Entertainment Writer</a>

NEW YORK (AP) — Oscar, Golden Globe and two-time Grammy winning singer-actress Irene Cara, who starred and sang the title cut from the 1980 hit movie “Fame” and then belted out the era-defining hit “Flashdance ... What a Feeling” from 1983's “Flashdance,” has died. She was 63.

Her publicist, Judith A. Moose, announced the news on social media, writing that a cause of death was “currently unknown.” Moose also confirmed the death to an Associated Press reporter on Saturday. Cara died at her home in Florida. The exact day of her death was not disclosed.

“Irene’s family has requested privacy as they process their grief,” Moose wrote. “She was a beautifully gifted soul whose legacy will live forever through her music and films.”

During her career, Cara had three Top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including “Breakdance,” “Out Here On My Own,” “Fame” and “Flashdance ... What A Feeling,” which spent six weeks at No. 1. She was behind some of the most joyful, high-energy pop anthems of the early ’80s.

Tributes poured in on Saturday on social media, including from Deborah Cox, who called Cara an inspiration, and Holly Robinson Peete, who recalled seeing Cara perform: "The insane combination of talent and beauty was overwhelming to me. This hurts my heart so much.”

She first came to prominence among the young actors playing performing arts high schoolers in Alan Parker's “Fame,” with co-stars Debbie Allen, Paul McCrane and Anne Mear. Cara played Coco Hernandez, a striving dancer who endures all manner of deprivations, including a creepy nude photo shoot.

“How bright our spirits go shooting out into space, depends on how much we contributed to the earthly brilliance of this world. And I mean to be a major contributor!” she says in the movie.

Cara sang on the soaring title song with the chorus — “Remember my name/I’m gonna live forever/I’m gonna learn how to fly/I feel it coming together/People will see me and cry” — which would go on to be nominated for an Academy Award for best original song. She also sang on “Out Here on My Own,” "Hot Lunch Jam" and “I Sing the Body Electric.”

Allen took to Twitter Saturday to mourn, posting pictures of them together and calling Cara a “a gifted and beautiful genius. Her talent and her music will live forever! Forever remember her name!”

Three years later, she and the songwriting team of “Flashdance” — music by Giorgio Moroder, lyrics by Keith Forsey and Cara — was accepting the Oscar for best original song for “Flashdance ... What a Feeling.”

The movie starred Jennifer Beals as a steel-town girl who dances in a bar at night and hopes to attend a prestigious dance conservatory. It included the hit song “Maniac,” featuring Beals’ character leaping, spinning, stomping her feet and the slow-burning theme song.

“There aren’t enough words to express my love and my gratitude,” Cara told the Oscar crowd in her thanks. “And last but not least, a very special gentlemen who I guess started it all for me many years ago. To Alan Parker, wherever you may be tonight, I thank him.”

The New York-born Cara began her career on Broadway, with small parts in short-lived shows, although a musical called “The Me Nobody Knows” ran over 300 performances. She toured in the musical “Jesus Christ Superstar" as Mary Magdalene in the mid-1990s and a tour of the musical ”Flashdance" toured 2012-14 with her songs.

She also created the all-female band Irene Cara Presents Hot Caramel and put out a double CD with the single “How Can I Make You Luv Me.” Her movie credits include ”Sparkle" and “D.C. Cab.”

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22MARK%20KENNEDY%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By MARK KENNEDY AP Entertainment Writer</a>NEW YORK (AP) — Oscar, Golden Globe and two-time Grammy winning singer-actress Irene Cara, who starred and sang the title cut from the 1980 hit movie “Fame” and then belted out the era-defining hit “Flashdance ... What a Feeling” from 1983's “Flashdance,” has died. She was 63.Her publicist, Judith A. Moose, announced the news on social media, writing that a cause of death was “currently unknown.” Moose also confirmed the death to an Associated Press reporter on Saturday. Cara died at her home in Florida. The exact day of her death was not disclosed.“Irene’s family has requested privacy as they process their grief,” Moose wrote. “She was a beautifully gifted soul whose legacy will live forever through her music and films.”During her career, Cara had three Top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including “Breakdance,” “Out Here On My Own,” “Fame” and “Flashdance ... What A Feeling,” which spent six weeks at No. 1. She was behind some of the most joyful, high-energy pop anthems of the early ’80s.Tributes poured in on Saturday on social media, including from Deborah Cox, who called Cara an inspiration, and Holly Robinson Peete, who recalled seeing Cara perform: "The insane combination of talent and beauty was overwhelming to me. This hurts my heart so much.”She first came to prominence among the young actors playing performing arts high schoolers in Alan Parker's “Fame,” with co-stars Debbie Allen, Paul McCrane and Anne Mear. Cara played Coco Hernandez, a striving dancer who endures all manner of deprivations, including a creepy nude photo shoot.“How bright our spirits go shooting out into space, depends on how much we contributed to the earthly brilliance of this world. And I mean to be a major contributor!” she says in the movie.Cara sang on the soaring title song with the chorus — “Remember my name/I’m gonna live forever/I’m gonna learn how to fly/I feel it coming together/People will see me and cry” — which would go on to be nominated for an Academy Award for best original song. She also sang on “Out Here on My Own,” "Hot Lunch Jam" and “I Sing the Body Electric.”Allen took to Twitter Saturday to mourn, posting pictures of them together and calling Cara a “a gifted and beautiful genius. Her talent and her music will live forever! Forever remember her name!”Three years later, she and the songwriting team of “Flashdance” — music by Giorgio Moroder, lyrics by Keith Forsey and Cara — was accepting the Oscar for best original song for “Flashdance ... What a Feeling.”The movie starred Jennifer Beals as a steel-town girl who dances in a bar at night and hopes to attend a prestigious dance conservatory. It included the hit song “Maniac,” featuring Beals’ character leaping, spinning, stomping her feet and the slow-burning theme song.“There aren’t enough words to express my love and my gratitude,” Cara told the Oscar crowd in her thanks. “And last but not least, a very special gentlemen who I guess started it all for me many years ago. To Alan Parker, wherever you may be tonight, I thank him.”The New York-born Cara began her career on Broadway, with small parts in short-lived shows, although a musical called “The Me Nobody Knows” ran over 300 performances. She toured in the musical “Jesus Christ Superstar" as Mary Magdalene in the mid-1990s and a tour of the musical ”Flashdance" toured 2012-14 with her songs.She also created the all-female band Irene Cara Presents Hot Caramel and put out a double CD with the single “How Can I Make You Luv Me.” Her movie credits include ”Sparkle" and “D.C. Cab.”

'Fame' and 'Flashdance' singer-actor Irene Cara dies at 63

NEW YORK (AP) — Oscar, Golden Globe and two-time Grammy winning 
singer-actress Irene Cara, who starred and sang the title cut from the 
1980 hit movie “Fame” and then belted out the era-defining hit 
“Flashdance ... What a Feeling” from 1983's “Flashdance,” has died. She 
was 63.

Her publicist, Judith A. Moose, announced the news on 
social media, writing that a cause of death was “currently unknown.” 
Moose also confirmed the death to an Associated Press reporter on 
Saturday. Cara died at her home in Florida. The exact day of her death 
was not disclosed.

“Irene’s family has requested privacy as they 
process their grief,” Moose wrote. “She was a beautifully gifted soul 
whose legacy will live forever through her music and films.”

During
 her career, Cara had three Top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, 
including “Breakdance,” “Out Here On My Own,” “Fame” and “Flashdance ...
 What A Feeling,” which spent six weeks at No. 1. She was behind some of
 the most joyful, high-energy pop anthems of the early ’80s.

Tributes
 poured in on Saturday on social media, including from Deborah Cox, who 
called Cara an inspiration, and Holly Robinson Peete, who recalled 
seeing Cara perform: "The insane combination of talent and beauty was 
overwhelming to me. This hurts my heart so much.”

She first came 
to prominence among the young actors playing performing arts high 
schoolers in Alan Parker's “Fame,” with co-stars Debbie Allen, Paul 
McCrane and Anne Mear. Cara played Coco Hernandez, a striving dancer who
 endures all manner of deprivations, including a creepy nude photo 
shoot.

“How bright our spirits go shooting out into space, depends
 on how much we contributed to the earthly brilliance of this world. And
 I mean to be a major contributor!” she says in the movie.

Cara 
sang on the soaring title song with the chorus — “Remember my name/I’m 
gonna live forever/I’m gonna learn how to fly/I feel it coming 
together/People will see me and cry” — which would go on to be nominated
 for an Academy Award for best original song. She also sang on “Out Here
 on My Own,” "Hot Lunch Jam" and “I Sing the Body Electric.”

Three
 years later, she and the songwriting team of “Flashdance” — music by 
Giorgio Moroder, lyrics by Keith Forsey and Cara — was accepting the 
Oscar for best original song for “Flashdance ... What a Feeling.”

The
 movie starred Jennifer Beals as a steel-town girl who dances in a bar 
at night and hopes to attend a prestigious dance conservatory. It 
included the hit song “Maniac,” featuring Beals’ character leaping, 
spinning, stomping her feet and the slow-burning theme song.

“There
 aren’t enough words to express my love and my gratitude,” Cara told the
 Oscar crowd in her thanks. “And last but not least, a very special 
gentlemen who I guess started it all for me many years ago. To Alan 
Parker, wherever you may be tonight, I thank him.”

The New 
York-born Cara began her career on Broadway, with small parts in 
short-lived shows, although a musical called “The Me Nobody Knows” ran 
over 300 performances. She toured in the musical “Jesus Christ 
Superstar" as Mary Magdalene in the mid-1990s and a tour of the musical 
”Flashdance" toured 2012-14 with her songs.

She also created the 
all-female band Irene Cara Presents Hot Caramel and put out a double CD 
with the single “How Can I Make You Luv Me.” Her movie credits include 
”Sparkle" and “D.C. Cab.”

NEW YORK (AP) — Oscar, Golden Globe and two-time Grammy winning 
singer-actress Irene Cara, who starred and sang the title cut from the 
1980 hit movie “Fame” and then belted out the era-defining hit 
“Flashdance ... What a Feeling” from 1983's “Flashdance,” has died. She 
was 63.Her publicist, Judith A. Moose, announced the news on 
social media, writing that a cause of death was “currently unknown.” 
Moose also confirmed the death to an Associated Press reporter on 
Saturday. Cara died at her home in Florida. The exact day of her death 
was not disclosed.“Irene’s family has requested privacy as they 
process their grief,” Moose wrote. “She was a beautifully gifted soul 
whose legacy will live forever through her music and films.”During
 her career, Cara had three Top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, 
including “Breakdance,” “Out Here On My Own,” “Fame” and “Flashdance ...
 What A Feeling,” which spent six weeks at No. 1. She was behind some of
 the most joyful, high-energy pop anthems of the early ’80s.Tributes
 poured in on Saturday on social media, including from Deborah Cox, who 
called Cara an inspiration, and Holly Robinson Peete, who recalled 
seeing Cara perform: "The insane combination of talent and beauty was 
overwhelming to me. This hurts my heart so much.”She first came 
to prominence among the young actors playing performing arts high 
schoolers in Alan Parker's “Fame,” with co-stars Debbie Allen, Paul 
McCrane and Anne Mear. Cara played Coco Hernandez, a striving dancer who
 endures all manner of deprivations, including a creepy nude photo 
shoot.“How bright our spirits go shooting out into space, depends
 on how much we contributed to the earthly brilliance of this world. And
 I mean to be a major contributor!” she says in the movie.Cara 
sang on the soaring title song with the chorus — “Remember my name/I’m 
gonna live forever/I’m gonna learn how to fly/I feel it coming 
together/People will see me and cry” — which would go on to be nominated
 for an Academy Award for best original song. She also sang on “Out Here
 on My Own,” "Hot Lunch Jam" and “I Sing the Body Electric.”Three
 years later, she and the songwriting team of “Flashdance” — music by 
Giorgio Moroder, lyrics by Keith Forsey and Cara — was accepting the 
Oscar for best original song for “Flashdance ... What a Feeling.”The
 movie starred Jennifer Beals as a steel-town girl who dances in a bar 
at night and hopes to attend a prestigious dance conservatory. It 
included the hit song “Maniac,” featuring Beals’ character leaping, 
spinning, stomping her feet and the slow-burning theme song.“There
 aren’t enough words to express my love and my gratitude,” Cara told the
 Oscar crowd in her thanks. “And last but not least, a very special 
gentlemen who I guess started it all for me many years ago. To Alan 
Parker, wherever you may be tonight, I thank him.”The New 
York-born Cara began her career on Broadway, with small parts in 
short-lived shows, although a musical called “The Me Nobody Knows” ran 
over 300 performances. She toured in the musical “Jesus Christ 
Superstar" as Mary Magdalene in the mid-1990s and a tour of the musical 
”Flashdance" toured 2012-14 with her songs.She also created the 
all-female band Irene Cara Presents Hot Caramel and put out a double CD 
with the single “How Can I Make You Luv Me.” Her movie credits include 
”Sparkle" and “D.C. Cab.”

'Fame,' 'Flashdance' singer-actor dies at 63

<a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/popular-christmas-movies-by-state/">Wealth of Geeks</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

‘Tis the season for curling up by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa and, of course, your favorite Christmas movie. But deciding which Christmas movie truly captures the essence of the holidays is a point of contention across the nation.

Using data from Rotten Tomatoes and Google Trends,&nbsp;<a href="https://wealthynickel.com/most-popular-christmas-movies-by-state/">Wealthy Nickel</a>&nbsp;crunched the numbers to determine the most popular Christmas movie in every state. Many holiday classics made the list, but a few states surprised us with their non-traditional picks. So cozy up on the couch amidst the twinkling glow of Christmas lights and find out if your state's idea of the most wonderful time of the year involves the North Pole or Nakatomi Plaza.

The Highest-Ranked Christmas Movies by State

Something about Christmas movies really captures the spirit of the season and can bring on a sense of nostalgia that transports viewers to Christmases past.

One of those holiday classics is&nbsp;The Polar Express, which took the top spot in Alabama, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and South Carolina. These states love the mysterious train headed to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Who doesn't love the dancing waiters and chefs who serve hot chocolate to all the kids?

Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Texas, and West Virginia loved&nbsp;The Grinch, the story of a cynical grump who attempts to ruin Christmas for all of Whoville. While there are a few theatrical versions of the story, the most popular is 2018's animated interpretation starring the voice of Benedict Cumberbatch as the Grinch.

With a flair for the romantic, Maryland, Massachusetts, Oregon, Virginia, and The District of Columbia all chose&nbsp;Love Actually, which follows ten Brits as they navigate their love lives in a countdown to Christmas. This romantic comedy has become a modern-day Christmas staple for many.

Other favorite Christmas&nbsp;<a href="https://hellosensible.com/the-best-free-movies-online-sites/">movies</a>&nbsp;include&nbsp;Home Alone,&nbsp;Elf, and&nbsp;It's a Wonderful Life.

The Midwest - Illinois, Ohio, and North Dakota - support the Chicago-based&nbsp;Home Alone, starring Macaulay Culkin as the resourceful eight-year-old who fends off two hapless robbers from his family home. Nebraska, Nevada, and Utah eat up all the sugar they can as they watch Will Ferrell run around New York City in the endearing story of Buddy the Elf. And Connecticut, Missouri, New Hampshire, and Wisconsin stand by the oldie but goodie,&nbsp;It's a Wonderful Life.

Some newer movies are even starting to make their mark and become a part of the Christmas tradition. The 2019 Netflix&nbsp;<a href="https://hellosensible.com/best-christian-cartoons-for-kids/">animated</a>&nbsp;movie&nbsp;Klaus&nbsp;is popular among states such as Colorado and Washington.

What counts as a Christmas movie? Does anything set during the holiday season fit the bill, or does Santa Claus have to make an appearance? This debate has undoubtedly started many squabbles at family gatherings. However, the cold, hard facts don't lie. The research from Wealthy Nickel showed that search volume spiked in December for several movies that wouldn't usually spring to mind as heartwarming holiday classics.

One of the most surprising Christmas movies, voted a favorite by six states, is&nbsp;Trading Places. The 1980s comedy captures audiences year after year in Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. The movie follows an upper-class financial executive and a street hustler who switch lifestyles to win a bet. Set in Philadelphia during Christmas, there are plenty of opportunities for holiday hijinks, including Dan Akroyd in a Santa suit.

Edward Scissorhands&nbsp;shockingly makes the cut with four states - Arizona, California, Florida, and New Mexico - all agreeing that the movie is a must-see during the holidays. While it does not adhere to the "merry and bright" definition of a standard holiday flick, it does take place during Christmastime and is beloved by many.

Perhaps the most well-known Christmas-movie-that-maybe-isn't-a-Christmas-movie is&nbsp;Die Hard. Both Montana and Idaho enjoy seeing John McClane fighting to save Christmas from a group of rogue terrorists.

Which States Have the Most and Least Christmas Spirit?

According to the rankings, Utah is the most festive state, always on the lookout for a dose of holiday cheer. Of the twenty movies rated, Utahns were among the top five searchers for twelve of them. West Virginia and New Hampshire took second and third place as states that can't say no to a good Christmas movie. West Virginia was among the top five searchers for eleven movies and New Hampshire for seven.

The least festive states, at least by volume of Christmas movie searches, were Hawaii, Florida, Mississippi, New York, and Louisiana. While most of these states will never have a white Christmas, New York should be slightly ashamed to be counted in that list.

What do Nevada and Nebraska have in common? Their love of the movie&nbsp;Elf, of course! Here is the complete list of the most popular Christmas movie in every state.

More Articles From the Wealth of Geeks Network:

This article was produced and syndicated by&nbsp;<a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/popular-christmas-movies-by-state/">Wealth of Geeks</a>.

<a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/popular-christmas-movies-by-state/">Wealth of Geeks</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;‘Tis the season for curling up by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa and, of course, your favorite Christmas movie. But deciding which Christmas movie truly captures the essence of the holidays is a point of contention across the nation.Using data from Rotten Tomatoes and Google Trends,&nbsp;<a href="https://wealthynickel.com/most-popular-christmas-movies-by-state/">Wealthy Nickel</a>&nbsp;crunched the numbers to determine the most popular Christmas movie in every state. Many holiday classics made the list, but a few states surprised us with their non-traditional picks. So cozy up on the couch amidst the twinkling glow of Christmas lights and find out if your state's idea of the most wonderful time of the year involves the North Pole or Nakatomi Plaza.The Highest-Ranked Christmas Movies by StateSomething about Christmas movies really captures the spirit of the season and can bring on a sense of nostalgia that transports viewers to Christmases past.One of those holiday classics is&nbsp;The Polar Express, which took the top spot in Alabama, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and South Carolina. These states love the mysterious train headed to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Who doesn't love the dancing waiters and chefs who serve hot chocolate to all the kids?Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Texas, and West Virginia loved&nbsp;The Grinch, the story of a cynical grump who attempts to ruin Christmas for all of Whoville. While there are a few theatrical versions of the story, the most popular is 2018's animated interpretation starring the voice of Benedict Cumberbatch as the Grinch.With a flair for the romantic, Maryland, Massachusetts, Oregon, Virginia, and The District of Columbia all chose&nbsp;Love Actually, which follows ten Brits as they navigate their love lives in a countdown to Christmas. This romantic comedy has become a modern-day Christmas staple for many.Other favorite Christmas&nbsp;<a href="https://hellosensible.com/the-best-free-movies-online-sites/">movies</a>&nbsp;include&nbsp;Home Alone,&nbsp;Elf, and&nbsp;It's a Wonderful Life.The Midwest - Illinois, Ohio, and North Dakota - support the Chicago-based&nbsp;Home Alone, starring Macaulay Culkin as the resourceful eight-year-old who fends off two hapless robbers from his family home. Nebraska, Nevada, and Utah eat up all the sugar they can as they watch Will Ferrell run around New York City in the endearing story of Buddy the Elf. And Connecticut, Missouri, New Hampshire, and Wisconsin stand by the oldie but goodie,&nbsp;It's a Wonderful Life.Some newer movies are even starting to make their mark and become a part of the Christmas tradition. The 2019 Netflix&nbsp;<a href="https://hellosensible.com/best-christian-cartoons-for-kids/">animated</a>&nbsp;movie&nbsp;Klaus&nbsp;is popular among states such as Colorado and Washington.Elf or Edward Scissorhands?What counts as a Christmas movie? Does anything set during the holiday season fit the bill, or does Santa Claus have to make an appearance? This debate has undoubtedly started many squabbles at family gatherings. However, the cold, hard facts don't lie. The research from Wealthy Nickel showed that search volume spiked in December for several movies that wouldn't usually spring to mind as heartwarming holiday classics.One of the most surprising Christmas movies, voted a favorite by six states, is&nbsp;Trading Places. The 1980s comedy captures audiences year after year in Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. The movie follows an upper-class financial executive and a street hustler who switch lifestyles to win a bet. Set in Philadelphia during Christmas, there are plenty of opportunities for holiday hijinks, including Dan Akroyd in a Santa suit.Edward Scissorhands&nbsp;shockingly makes the cut with four states - Arizona, California, Florida, and New Mexico - all agreeing that the movie is a must-see during the holidays. While it does not adhere to the "merry and bright" definition of a standard holiday flick, it does take place during Christmastime and is beloved by many.Perhaps the most well-known Christmas-movie-that-maybe-isn't-a-Christmas-movie is&nbsp;Die Hard. Both Montana and Idaho enjoy seeing John McClane fighting to save Christmas from a group of rogue terrorists.Which States Have the Most and Least Christmas Spirit?According to the rankings, Utah is the most festive state, always on the lookout for a dose of holiday cheer. Of the twenty movies rated, Utahns were among the top five searchers for twelve of them. West Virginia and New Hampshire took second and third place as states that can't say no to a good Christmas movie. West Virginia was among the top five searchers for eleven movies and New Hampshire for seven.The least festive states, at least by volume of Christmas movie searches, were Hawaii, Florida, Mississippi, New York, and Louisiana. While most of these states will never have a white Christmas, New York should be slightly ashamed to be counted in that list.What do Nevada and Nebraska have in common? Their love of the movie&nbsp;Elf, of course! Here is the complete list of the most popular Christmas movie in every state.<ul>
 <li>Alabama -&nbsp;The Polar Express</li><li>Alaska -&nbsp;Jack Frost</li><li>Arizona -&nbsp;Edward Scissorhands</li><li>Arkansas -&nbsp;The Grinch</li><li>California -&nbsp;Edward Scissorhands</li><li>Colorado -&nbsp;Klaus</li><li>Connecticut -&nbsp;It's a Wonderful Life</li><li>Delaware -&nbsp;Trading Places</li><li>District of Columbia -&nbsp;Love Actually</li><li>Florida -&nbsp;Edward Scissorhands</li><li>Georgia -&nbsp;Trading Places</li><li>Hawaii -&nbsp;Trading Places</li><li>Idaho -&nbsp;Die Hard</li><li>Illinois -&nbsp;Home Alone</li><li>Indiana -&nbsp;A Christmas Story</li><li>Iowa -&nbsp;Christmas Vacation</li><li>Kansas -&nbsp;Miracle on 34th Street</li><li>Kentucky -&nbsp;The Grinch</li><li>Louisiana -&nbsp;The Grinch</li><li>Maine -&nbsp;Jingle All the Way</li><li>Maryland -&nbsp;Love Actually</li><li>Massachusetts -&nbsp;Love Actually</li><li>Michigan -&nbsp;Krampus</li><li>Minnesota -&nbsp;Jingle All the Way</li><li>Mississippi -&nbsp;The Polar Express</li><li>Missouri -&nbsp;It's a Wonderful Life</li><li>Montana -&nbsp;Die Hard</li><li>Nebraska -&nbsp;Elf</li><li>Nevada -&nbsp;Elf</li><li>New Hampshire -&nbsp;It's a Wonderful Life</li><li>New Jersey -&nbsp;Trading Places</li><li>New Mexico -&nbsp;Edward Scissorhands</li><li>New York -&nbsp;Trading Places</li><li>North Carolina -&nbsp;The Polar Express</li><li>North Dakota -&nbsp;Home Alone</li><li>Ohio -&nbsp;Home Alone</li><li>Oklahoma -&nbsp;The Polar Express</li><li>Oregon -&nbsp;Love Actually</li><li>Pennsylvania -&nbsp;Trading Places</li><li>Rhode Island -&nbsp;Jack Frost</li><li>South Carolina -&nbsp;The Polar Express</li><li>South Dakota -&nbsp;Christmas Vacation</li><li>Tennessee -&nbsp;The Santa Clause</li><li>Texas -&nbsp;The Grinch</li><li>Utah -&nbsp;Elf</li><li>Vermont -&nbsp;Miracle on 34th Street</li><li>Virginia -&nbsp;Love Actually</li><li>Washington -&nbsp;Klaus</li><li>West Virginia -&nbsp;The Grinch</li><li>Wisconsin -&nbsp;It's a Wonderful Life</li><li>Wyoming -&nbsp;Krampus</li>
 </ul>More Articles From the Wealth of Geeks Network:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://savoteur.com/travel-gifts-guide/">The Ultimate Holiday Travel Gift Guide for Every Aspiring Jetsetter</a></li><li><a href="https://hellosensible.com/make-10-dollars-fast/">Easy Ways to Make $10 Fast This Holiday Season</a></li>
 </ul>This article was produced and syndicated by&nbsp;<a href="https://wealthofgeeks.com/popular-christmas-movies-by-state/">Wealth of Geeks</a>.

And the most popular Christmas movie in Kansas is...

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22CLAIRE%20RUSH%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By CLAIRE RUSH Associated Press/Report for America</a>

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Good news for fans of “The Goonies:” the old Victorian home featured in the film is on sale in Astoria, Oregon, and potential buyers are considering making it more accessible to the public.

“We have a few interested parties right now,” said realtor Jordan Miller, the listing agent for the property. “It seems to be everybody's intention to be able to open up the house a little bit more and have more access.”

The 1896 home with sweeping views of the Columbia River flowing into the Pacific Ocean has been listed with an asking price of $1.7 million on Zillow, where it's described as “fully loaded with history, nostalgia and iconic level of fame.”

Since the movie hit theaters in 1985, fans have flocked to the home in northwestern Oregon's historic port of Astoria. The city celebrates Goonies Day on June 7, the film's release date, and welcomes thousands of people for the event.

Owner Sandi Preston was known to have been largely welcoming to visitors. But she lived in the house full time, and the constant crowds were a strain that prompted her at times to close it to foot traffic.

After the film's 30th anniversary drew about 1,500 daily visitors in 2015, Preston posted “no trespassing” signs prohibiting tourists from walking up to the property. She reopened it to the public this past August.

City officials, who restricted parking in the area, have long sought to mediate the tensions between residents and the fans hoping to see and photograph the location.

“While the owner of this location from The Goonies is a fan of the movie and enjoys chatting with visitors making the trek to Astoria to see the film locations, as you can imagine, it gets hard having hundreds of people crowding into your personal space every single day,” the Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce wrote in August on a Facebook page they administer called Goonies Day in Astoria, Oregon.

In the coming-of-age film, based on a story by Steven Spielberg and featuring a young Sean Astin, a group of friends fight to protect their homes from an expanding country club and threats of foreclosure. In the process, they discover an old treasure map that leads them on an adventure and allows them to save their “Goon Docks” neighborhood.

Astoria and its rugged coastline served as the backdrop for several well-known films from the 1980s and ’90s, including “Kindergarten Cop” starring Arnold Schwarzenegger.

For now, potential buyers of the iconic Goonies house don't seem to want to make the house their primary residence, said listing agent Miller, suggesting it has drawn interest from people who want to “make it their passion.”

“It’s kind of a fun buy,” Miller said. “Whoever buys the house is going to have a relatively steady stream of extremely happy people walking up outside to fulfill their childhood dreams.”

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22CLAIRE%20RUSH%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By CLAIRE RUSH Associated Press/Report for America</a>PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Good news for fans of “The Goonies:” the old Victorian home featured in the film is on sale in Astoria, Oregon, and potential buyers are considering making it more accessible to the public.“We have a few interested parties right now,” said realtor Jordan Miller, the listing agent for the property. “It seems to be everybody's intention to be able to open up the house a little bit more and have more access.”The 1896 home with sweeping views of the Columbia River flowing into the Pacific Ocean has been listed with an asking price of $1.7 million on Zillow, where it's described as “fully loaded with history, nostalgia and iconic level of fame.”Since the movie hit theaters in 1985, fans have flocked to the home in northwestern Oregon's historic port of Astoria. The city celebrates Goonies Day on June 7, the film's release date, and welcomes thousands of people for the event.Owner Sandi Preston was known to have been largely welcoming to visitors. But she lived in the house full time, and the constant crowds were a strain that prompted her at times to close it to foot traffic.After the film's 30th anniversary drew about 1,500 daily visitors in 2015, Preston posted “no trespassing” signs prohibiting tourists from walking up to the property. She reopened it to the public this past August.City officials, who restricted parking in the area, have long sought to mediate the tensions between residents and the fans hoping to see and photograph the location.“While the owner of this location from The Goonies is a fan of the movie and enjoys chatting with visitors making the trek to Astoria to see the film locations, as you can imagine, it gets hard having hundreds of people crowding into your personal space every single day,” the Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce wrote in August on a Facebook page they administer called Goonies Day in Astoria, Oregon.In the coming-of-age film, based on a story by Steven Spielberg and featuring a young Sean Astin, a group of friends fight to protect their homes from an expanding country club and threats of foreclosure. In the process, they discover an old treasure map that leads them on an adventure and allows them to save their “Goon Docks” neighborhood.Astoria and its rugged coastline served as the backdrop for several well-known films from the 1980s and ’90s, including “Kindergarten Cop” starring Arnold Schwarzenegger.For now, potential buyers of the iconic Goonies house don't seem to want to make the house their primary residence, said listing agent Miller, suggesting it has drawn interest from people who want to “make it their passion.”“It’s kind of a fun buy,” Miller said. “Whoever buys the house is going to have a relatively steady stream of extremely happy people walking up outside to fulfill their childhood dreams.”

Famed 'Goonies' house for sale in coastal Astoria, Oregon

PORTLAND,
 Ore. — Good news for fans of “The Goonies:” the old Victorian home
 featured in the film is on sale in Astoria, Oregon, and potential 
buyers are considering making it more accessible to the public.

“We
 have a few interested parties right now,” said realtor Jordan Miller, 
the listing agent for the property. “It seems to be everybody's 
intention to be able to open up the house a little bit more and have 
more access.”

The 1896 home with sweeping views of the Columbia 
River flowing into the Pacific Ocean has been listed with an asking 
price of $1.7 million on Zillow, where it's described as “fully loaded 
with history, nostalgia and iconic level of fame.”

Since the movie
 hit theaters in 1985, fans have flocked to the home in northwestern 
Oregon's historic port of Astoria. The city celebrates Goonies Day on 
June 7, the film's release date, and welcomes thousands of people for 
the event.

Owner Sandi Preston was known to have been largely 
welcoming to visitors. But she lived in the house full time, and the 
constant crowds were a strain that prompted her at times to close it to 
foot traffic.

After the film's 30th anniversary drew about 1,500 
daily visitors in 2015, Preston posted “no trespassing” signs 
prohibiting tourists from walking up to the property. She reopened it to
 the public this past August.

City officials, who restricted 
parking in the area, have long sought to mediate the tensions between 
residents and the fans hoping to see and photograph the location.

“While
 the owner of this location from The Goonies is a fan of the movie and 
enjoys chatting with visitors making the trek to Astoria to see the film
 locations, as you can imagine, it gets hard having hundreds of people 
crowding into your personal space every single day,” the 
Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce wrote in August on a Facebook page
 they administer called Goonies Day in Astoria, Oregon.

In the 
coming-of-age film, based on a story by Steven Spielberg and featuring a
 young Sean Astin, a group of friends fight to protect their homes from 
an expanding country club and threats of foreclosure. In the process, 
they discover an old treasure map that leads them on an adventure and 
allows them to save their “Goon Docks” neighborhood.

Astoria and 
its rugged coastline served as the backdrop for several well-known films
 from the 1980s and ’90s, including “Kindergarten Cop” starring Arnold 
Schwarzenegger.

For now, potential buyers of the iconic Goonies 
house don't seem to want to make the house their primary residence, said
 listing agent Miller, suggesting it has drawn interest from people who 
want to “make it their passion.”

“It’s kind of a fun buy,” Miller 
said. “Whoever buys the house is going to have a relatively steady 
stream of extremely happy people walking up outside to fulfill their 
childhood dreams.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669144243224.jpeg" alt="The house featured in the Steven Spielberg film "The Goonies" is seen in Astoria, Ore., on May 24, 2001. The Victorian home, built in 1896 with sweeping views of the Columbia River as it flows into the Pacific Ocean, is now for sale has been listed with an asking price of $1.7 million. Since the film was released in 1985, fans have flocked to the home, and the owner has long complained of constant crowds and trespassing. (AP Photo/Stepanie Firth, File)" />
 <figcaption>The house featured in the Steven Spielberg film "The Goonies" is seen in Astoria, Ore., on May 24, 2001. The Victorian home, built in 1896 with sweeping views of the Columbia River as it flows into the Pacific Ocean, is now for sale has been listed with an asking price of $1.7 million. Since the film was released in 1985, fans have flocked to the home, and the owner has long complained of constant crowds and trespassing. (AP Photo/Stepanie Firth, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>Associated PressPORTLAND,
 Ore. — Good news for fans of “The Goonies:” the old Victorian home
 featured in the film is on sale in Astoria, Oregon, and potential 
buyers are considering making it more accessible to the public.“We
 have a few interested parties right now,” said realtor Jordan Miller, 
the listing agent for the property. “It seems to be everybody's 
intention to be able to open up the house a little bit more and have 
more access.”The 1896 home with sweeping views of the Columbia 
River flowing into the Pacific Ocean has been listed with an asking 
price of $1.7 million on Zillow, where it's described as “fully loaded 
with history, nostalgia and iconic level of fame.”Since the movie
 hit theaters in 1985, fans have flocked to the home in northwestern 
Oregon's historic port of Astoria. The city celebrates Goonies Day on 
June 7, the film's release date, and welcomes thousands of people for 
the event.Owner Sandi Preston was known to have been largely 
welcoming to visitors. But she lived in the house full time, and the 
constant crowds were a strain that prompted her at times to close it to 
foot traffic.After the film's 30th anniversary drew about 1,500 
daily visitors in 2015, Preston posted “no trespassing” signs 
prohibiting tourists from walking up to the property. She reopened it to
 the public this past August.City officials, who restricted 
parking in the area, have long sought to mediate the tensions between 
residents and the fans hoping to see and photograph the location.“While
 the owner of this location from The Goonies is a fan of the movie and 
enjoys chatting with visitors making the trek to Astoria to see the film
 locations, as you can imagine, it gets hard having hundreds of people 
crowding into your personal space every single day,” the 
Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce wrote in August on a Facebook page
 they administer called Goonies Day in Astoria, Oregon.In the 
coming-of-age film, based on a story by Steven Spielberg and featuring a
 young Sean Astin, a group of friends fight to protect their homes from 
an expanding country club and threats of foreclosure. In the process, 
they discover an old treasure map that leads them on an adventure and 
allows them to save their “Goon Docks” neighborhood.Astoria and 
its rugged coastline served as the backdrop for several well-known films
 from the 1980s and ’90s, including “Kindergarten Cop” starring Arnold 
Schwarzenegger.For now, potential buyers of the iconic Goonies 
house don't seem to want to make the house their primary residence, said
 listing agent Miller, suggesting it has drawn interest from people who 
want to “make it their passion.”“It’s kind of a fun buy,” Miller 
said. “Whoever buys the house is going to have a relatively steady 
stream of extremely happy people walking up outside to fulfill their 
childhood dreams.”

Famed 'Goonies' house for sale in coastal Oregon

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22BROOKE%20SCHULTZ%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By BROOKE SCHULTZ </a> <a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22BROOKE%20SCHULTZ%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">Associated Press/Report for America</a>

Some of Taylor Swift’s fans want you to know three things: They’re not still 16, they have careers and resources and, right now, they’re angry. That’s a powerful political motivator, researchers say.

It started Nov. 15, when millions crowded a presale for Swift’s long-awaited Eras Tour,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-ticketmaster-concert-tickets-parents-34399cca6403c97f0983a5c69c7edec0">resulting in crashes, prolonged waits and frantic purchases.</a>&nbsp;By Thursday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-ticketmaster-sale-canceled-music-concert-tour-70c8a21059174c37a06b7a8475239b06">Ticketmaster had canceled the general sale,</a>&nbsp;citing insufficient remaining tickets and inciting a firestorm of outrage from fans. Swift herself said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-music-taylor-swift-af5d58d2a8c6def368ded1bd2ddd8a6f">the ordeal “really pisses me off.”</a>

Ticketmaster apologized but the bad blood had already been sowed. And now fans — and politicians — have started acting on it.

U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez directed Swifties to where they could make U.S. Department of Justice complaints. Multiple&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/josh-shapiro-business-taylor-swift-tennessee-e157badef297f7c302615b3a6080ba2a">state attorneys general</a>&nbsp;— including in Pennsylvania and Tennessee, key states in Swift’s origin story — have announced investigations.

Stephanie Aly, a New York-based professional who has worked on community organizing for progressive politics, for years has thought mobilizing fandoms for social progress could be beneficial.

“Fandoms are natural organizers,” said the 33-year-old Swiftie. “If you find the right issues and you activate them and engage them then you can effect real change.”

In 2020, for instance, K-pop fans organized to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/death-of-george-floyd-music-ap-top-news-south-korea-entertainment-09aaf5560b48385f5adf8ae7a6af3740">back the Black Lives Matter movement</a>&nbsp;and sought to&nbsp;<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/[https://apnews.com/article/pop-music-music-donald-trump-us-news-united-states-2f18f18a8b40a4635fd3590fd159241c">inflate registration</a>&nbsp;for a Donald Trump rally. Aly and Swifties from different industries — law, public relations, cybersecurity and more — have joined forces to create Vigilante Legal, a group targeting Ticketmaster by creating email templates to petition attorneys general and providing antitrust information. Thousands have expressed interest in helping or learning more.

“The level of anger that you’ve just seen in the country around this issue is astounding,” said Jean Sinzdak, associate director for the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University. “People are really sharing their feelings about that and building a movement about that online, which I really think is quite fascinating. It’s certainly an opportunity to engage people politically. Whether it lasts is hard to say, but it certainly feels like a real opportunity.”

In one way, said Sinzdak, this is giving Swift’s large following of younger people a direct line to seeing how policy takes shape. It’s also targeting a demographic that is seldom courted by politicians during election season.

“Nobody goes out and thinks, ‘Let’s target young women,’” said Gwen Nisbett, a University of North Texas professor who researches the intersection of political engagement and pop culture. “Be it about abortion or student loans, that age group is super mobilized and young women are super mobilized.”

Fan culture and community has boosted that tendency toward mobilization. Nisbett was studying parasocial relationships — when fans have strong one-way relationships with celebrities — in 2018, when the previously apolitical Swift posted an endorsement of Democratic candidates to social media. Nisbett found that while such posts may not determine fans' votes, they still led to the increased likelihood fans would look for more information about voting — and actually vote.

For the record:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-votecast-quirky-polls-e9c117cb5be549f91ca7d98d249c5f9d">AP VoteCast,</a>&nbsp;an extensive survey of the U.S. electorate, showed about a third of Tennessee voters in 2018 said they had a favorable opinion of Swift, and among them, a large majority — about 7 in 10 — backed Democrat Phil Bredesen in the Senate contest. That was in clear contrast to the roughly third of voters who had an unfavorable opinion of Swift and overwhelmingly backed Republican Marsha Blackburn.

For Swifties, the ire for Ticketmaster is not just about a ticket: “It’s the fact that you can’t participate in your community and your fandom and it’s part of your identity,” Nisbett said.

This isn’t even the first time a fandom or an artist has targeted Ticketmaster.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/063fca1ccd36ad2fe398537b71426d21">Pearl Jam took aim at the company</a>&nbsp;in 1994, although the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/c3efaa2c4026495236f2035e93fe8a3f">Justice Department ultimately declined</a>&nbsp;to bring a case. More recently, Bruce Springsteen fans were enraged over high ticket costs because of the platform’s dynamic pricing system.

“It’s not just about getting vengeance for Swifties. It’s not about getting an extra million Taylor Swift fans tickets, or all of us going to a secret session,” said Jordan Burger, 28, who is using his law background to help the cause. “It’s about fundamental equality. And when you have a monopolist like that, it’s just so representative of the class structure of a society where there isn’t equality anymore, there isn’t fairness.”

The sheer power and size of Swift’s fandom has spurred conversations about economic inequality, merely symbolized by Ticketmaster.

Aly noted that quite a few of the members of the group did get tickets; the issue is is bigger than Ticketmaster, she said.

“We’ve gotten some feedback that, ‘This is too big, let the government handle it.’ Have you seen the U.S. government? The government only functions when the people push it to and when the people demand that it function and the people are involved,” she said. “Even when something seems too big to fail or too powerful to fail, there are always enough of us to make a difference. Your involvement may be the thing that pushes it over the edge that forces the government to act.”

Aly says many grown-up Swifties have 10-15 years’ experience of being bullied for liking the singer — but what fans have in mind might be better than revenge.

“We have thick skin and nothing to lose, really,” Aly said.

Associated Press journalist Hannah Fingerhut contributed to this report from Washington. Brooke Schultz is a Harrisburg, Pennsylvania-based corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reportforamerica.org/">Report for America</a>&nbsp;is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22BROOKE%20SCHULTZ%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By BROOKE SCHULTZ </a> <a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22BROOKE%20SCHULTZ%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">Associated Press/Report for America</a>Some of Taylor Swift’s fans want you to know three things: They’re not still 16, they have careers and resources and, right now, they’re angry. That’s a powerful political motivator, researchers say.Look what Ticketmaster made them do.It started Nov. 15, when millions crowded a presale for Swift’s long-awaited Eras Tour,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-ticketmaster-concert-tickets-parents-34399cca6403c97f0983a5c69c7edec0">resulting in crashes, prolonged waits and frantic purchases.</a>&nbsp;By Thursday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-ticketmaster-sale-canceled-music-concert-tour-70c8a21059174c37a06b7a8475239b06">Ticketmaster had canceled the general sale,</a>&nbsp;citing insufficient remaining tickets and inciting a firestorm of outrage from fans. Swift herself said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-music-taylor-swift-af5d58d2a8c6def368ded1bd2ddd8a6f">the ordeal “really pisses me off.”</a>Ticketmaster apologized but the bad blood had already been sowed. And now fans — and politicians — have started acting on it.U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez directed Swifties to where they could make U.S. Department of Justice complaints. Multiple&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/josh-shapiro-business-taylor-swift-tennessee-e157badef297f7c302615b3a6080ba2a">state attorneys general</a>&nbsp;— including in Pennsylvania and Tennessee, key states in Swift’s origin story — have announced investigations.Stephanie Aly, a New York-based professional who has worked on community organizing for progressive politics, for years has thought mobilizing fandoms for social progress could be beneficial.“Fandoms are natural organizers,” said the 33-year-old Swiftie. “If you find the right issues and you activate them and engage them then you can effect real change.”In 2020, for instance, K-pop fans organized to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/death-of-george-floyd-music-ap-top-news-south-korea-entertainment-09aaf5560b48385f5adf8ae7a6af3740">back the Black Lives Matter movement</a>&nbsp;and sought to&nbsp;<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/[https://apnews.com/article/pop-music-music-donald-trump-us-news-united-states-2f18f18a8b40a4635fd3590fd159241c">inflate registration</a>&nbsp;for a Donald Trump rally. Aly and Swifties from different industries — law, public relations, cybersecurity and more — have joined forces to create Vigilante Legal, a group targeting Ticketmaster by creating email templates to petition attorneys general and providing antitrust information. Thousands have expressed interest in helping or learning more.“The level of anger that you’ve just seen in the country around this issue is astounding,” said Jean Sinzdak, associate director for the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University. “People are really sharing their feelings about that and building a movement about that online, which I really think is quite fascinating. It’s certainly an opportunity to engage people politically. Whether it lasts is hard to say, but it certainly feels like a real opportunity.”In one way, said Sinzdak, this is giving Swift’s large following of younger people a direct line to seeing how policy takes shape. It’s also targeting a demographic that is seldom courted by politicians during election season.“Nobody goes out and thinks, ‘Let’s target young women,’” said Gwen Nisbett, a University of North Texas professor who researches the intersection of political engagement and pop culture. “Be it about abortion or student loans, that age group is super mobilized and young women are super mobilized.”Fan culture and community has boosted that tendency toward mobilization. Nisbett was studying parasocial relationships — when fans have strong one-way relationships with celebrities — in 2018, when the previously apolitical Swift posted an endorsement of Democratic candidates to social media. Nisbett found that while such posts may not determine fans' votes, they still led to the increased likelihood fans would look for more information about voting — and actually vote.For the record:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-votecast-quirky-polls-e9c117cb5be549f91ca7d98d249c5f9d">AP VoteCast,</a>&nbsp;an extensive survey of the U.S. electorate, showed about a third of Tennessee voters in 2018 said they had a favorable opinion of Swift, and among them, a large majority — about 7 in 10 — backed Democrat Phil Bredesen in the Senate contest. That was in clear contrast to the roughly third of voters who had an unfavorable opinion of Swift and overwhelmingly backed Republican Marsha Blackburn.For Swifties, the ire for Ticketmaster is not just about a ticket: “It’s the fact that you can’t participate in your community and your fandom and it’s part of your identity,” Nisbett said.This isn’t even the first time a fandom or an artist has targeted Ticketmaster.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/063fca1ccd36ad2fe398537b71426d21">Pearl Jam took aim at the company</a>&nbsp;in 1994, although the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/c3efaa2c4026495236f2035e93fe8a3f">Justice Department ultimately declined</a>&nbsp;to bring a case. More recently, Bruce Springsteen fans were enraged over high ticket costs because of the platform’s dynamic pricing system.“It’s not just about getting vengeance for Swifties. It’s not about getting an extra million Taylor Swift fans tickets, or all of us going to a secret session,” said Jordan Burger, 28, who is using his law background to help the cause. “It’s about fundamental equality. And when you have a monopolist like that, it’s just so representative of the class structure of a society where there isn’t equality anymore, there isn’t fairness.”The sheer power and size of Swift’s fandom has spurred conversations about economic inequality, merely symbolized by Ticketmaster.Aly noted that quite a few of the members of the group did get tickets; the issue is is bigger than Ticketmaster, she said.“We’ve gotten some feedback that, ‘This is too big, let the government handle it.’ Have you seen the U.S. government? The government only functions when the people push it to and when the people demand that it function and the people are involved,” she said. “Even when something seems too big to fail or too powerful to fail, there are always enough of us to make a difference. Your involvement may be the thing that pushes it over the edge that forces the government to act.”Aly says many grown-up Swifties have 10-15 years’ experience of being bullied for liking the singer — but what fans have in mind might be better than revenge.“We have thick skin and nothing to lose, really,” Aly said.___Associated Press journalist Hannah Fingerhut contributed to this report from Washington. Brooke Schultz is a Harrisburg, Pennsylvania-based corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reportforamerica.org/">Report for America</a>&nbsp;is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.

Taylor Swift ticket trouble could drive political engagement

NEW YORK (AP) — Swifties, your girl has spoke on the Ticketmaster meltdown.

Taylor Swift posted a story Friday on Instagram expressing her anger and frustration over the hours spent by <a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-ticketmaster-concert-tickets-parents-34399cca6403c97f0983a5c69c7edec0">fans trying to buy tickets</a> for her tour next year.

“I'm
 not going to make excuses for anyone because we asked them, multiple 
times, if they could handle this kind of demand and we were assured they
 could,” she wrote. “It's truly amazing that 2.4 million people got 
tickets, but it really pisses me off that a lot of them feel like they 
went through several bear attacks to get them.”

Of those who lost out, Swift said she hopes to “provide more opportunities for us to all get together and sing these songs.”

Fans
 trying to scoop up tickets Tuesday in a pre-sale for Swift's The Eras 
tour were met by massive delays and error messages that Ticketmaster 
blamed on bots and historically unprecedented demand. It was the most 
tickets sold on the platform in a single day, the company said in a 
statement. A <a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-ticketmaster-sale-canceled-music-concert-tour-70c8a21059174c37a06b7a8475239b06">general public sale</a> scheduled for Friday was canceled the day before.

Some fans wondered why Swift hadn't spoken out sooner.

On
 Instagram, the pop star didn't address timing but said she has trust 
issues when it comes to her fans' experience, trying to keep many 
elements of her career in house.

“It's really difficult for me to 
trust an outside entity with these relationships and loyalties, and 
excruciating for me to just watch mistakes happen with no recourse,” 
Swift said.

In addition to Tuesday's nightmare, Ticketmaster cited
 “extraordinarily high demands on ticketing systems and insufficient 
remaining ticket inventory to meet that demand” as a reason for calling 
off Friday’s sale.

Fresh off one of the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-music-taylor-swift-930a204fbbfccea45f6012f0da4feef6">biggest album launches of her career,</a>
 Swift announced earlier this month that she was going on a new U.S. 
stadium tour, with international dates to follow. Fans who received a 
special code after registering had exclusive access to buy tickets 
Tuesday. Those who didn't score tickets were placed on a waiting list.

The
 52-date Eras Tour kicks off March 17 in Glendale, Arizona, and wraps up
 with five shows in Los Angeles ending Aug. 9. It’s Swift’s first tour 
since 2018.

NEW YORK (AP) — Swifties, your girl has spoke on the Ticketmaster meltdown.Taylor Swift posted a story Friday on Instagram expressing her anger and frustration over the hours spent by <a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-ticketmaster-concert-tickets-parents-34399cca6403c97f0983a5c69c7edec0">fans trying to buy tickets</a> for her tour next year.“I'm
 not going to make excuses for anyone because we asked them, multiple 
times, if they could handle this kind of demand and we were assured they
 could,” she wrote. “It's truly amazing that 2.4 million people got 
tickets, but it really pisses me off that a lot of them feel like they 
went through several bear attacks to get them.”Of those who lost out, Swift said she hopes to “provide more opportunities for us to all get together and sing these songs.”Fans
 trying to scoop up tickets Tuesday in a pre-sale for Swift's The Eras 
tour were met by massive delays and error messages that Ticketmaster 
blamed on bots and historically unprecedented demand. It was the most 
tickets sold on the platform in a single day, the company said in a 
statement. A <a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-ticketmaster-sale-canceled-music-concert-tour-70c8a21059174c37a06b7a8475239b06">general public sale</a> scheduled for Friday was canceled the day before.Some fans wondered why Swift hadn't spoken out sooner.On
 Instagram, the pop star didn't address timing but said she has trust 
issues when it comes to her fans' experience, trying to keep many 
elements of her career in house.“It's really difficult for me to 
trust an outside entity with these relationships and loyalties, and 
excruciating for me to just watch mistakes happen with no recourse,” 
Swift said.In addition to Tuesday's nightmare, Ticketmaster cited
 “extraordinarily high demands on ticketing systems and insufficient 
remaining ticket inventory to meet that demand” as a reason for calling 
off Friday’s sale.Fresh off one of the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-music-taylor-swift-930a204fbbfccea45f6012f0da4feef6">biggest album launches of her career,</a>
 Swift announced earlier this month that she was going on a new U.S. 
stadium tour, with international dates to follow. Fans who received a 
special code after registering had exclusive access to buy tickets 
Tuesday. Those who didn't score tickets were placed on a waiting list.The
 52-date Eras Tour kicks off March 17 in Glendale, Arizona, and wraps up
 with five shows in Los Angeles ending Aug. 9. It’s Swift’s first tour 
since 2018.

Taylor Swift angry for fans in Ticketmaster meltdown

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Tree Top Security and STEM Harvest owner Dallas Haselhorst.

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Tree Top Security and STEM Harvest owner Dallas Haselhorst.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6ODSqp4YVT0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎤 Forward Ever: Tree Top Security and STEM Harvest owner Dallas Haselhorst

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Ticketmaster says <a href="https://twitter.com/Ticketmaster/status/1593333211769106433">it is canceling Friday's planned general public sale</a> for Taylor Swift's upcoming stadium tour because it doesn't have enough tickets.

The decision came two days after a presale event caused the site to crash and <a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-ticketmaster-concert-tickets-parents-34399cca6403c97f0983a5c69c7edec0">left many fans without tickets</a>. The ticketing company <a href="https://business.ticketmaster.com/business-solutions/the-taylor-swift-on-sale-explained-2/">said in a statement Thursday</a>
 two million tickets to The Eras tour next year were sold during 
presales on Tuesday, the most tickets ever sold on the platform in a 
single day.

Ticketmaster cited "extraordinarily high demands on 
ticketing systems and insufficient remaining ticket inventory to meet 
that demand" as a reason for calling off Friday's sale.

Questions 
remain about how remaining tickets — and how many — would be sold. But 
Ticketmaster said about 1.5 million fans who had gone through an early 
verification process — called Verified Fan — were invited to purchase 
tickets and the remaining 2 million were placed on a waiting list.

A company representative said Ticketmaster is not involved in ticket resales for Swift's shows.

It's been a record year for Swift after releasing <a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-music-taylor-swift-930a204fbbfccea45f6012f0da4feef6">her latest album “Midnights," which also broke a Billboard record.</a>

The
 52-date Eras Tour kicks off March 17 in Glendale, Arizona, and wraps up
 with five shows in Los Angeles ending Aug. 9. International dates will 
be announced as well. It’s Swift’s first tour since 2018.

But fans and families around the country <a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-ticketmaster-concert-tickets-parents-34399cca6403c97f0983a5c69c7edec0">battled it out with long queues and error messages</a> to try to race to the checkout cart.

Ticketmaster
 said that the site was overwhelmed both by real people and bot attacks 
resulting in unprecedented traffic on their site. The statement said 
about 15 percent of interactions with the site had problems, including 
errors that caused people to lose tickets after they had waited in an 
online queue.

"While it’s impossible for everyone to get tickets 
to these shows, we know we can do more to improve the experience and 
that’s what we’re focused on," the company statement said.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Ticketmaster says <a href="https://twitter.com/Ticketmaster/status/1593333211769106433">it is canceling Friday's planned general public sale</a> for Taylor Swift's upcoming stadium tour because it doesn't have enough tickets.The decision came two days after a presale event caused the site to crash and <a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-ticketmaster-concert-tickets-parents-34399cca6403c97f0983a5c69c7edec0">left many fans without tickets</a>. The ticketing company <a href="https://business.ticketmaster.com/business-solutions/the-taylor-swift-on-sale-explained-2/">said in a statement Thursday</a>
 two million tickets to The Eras tour next year were sold during 
presales on Tuesday, the most tickets ever sold on the platform in a 
single day.Ticketmaster cited "extraordinarily high demands on 
ticketing systems and insufficient remaining ticket inventory to meet 
that demand" as a reason for calling off Friday's sale.Questions 
remain about how remaining tickets — and how many — would be sold. But 
Ticketmaster said about 1.5 million fans who had gone through an early 
verification process — called Verified Fan — were invited to purchase 
tickets and the remaining 2 million were placed on a waiting list.A company representative said Ticketmaster is not involved in ticket resales for Swift's shows.It's been a record year for Swift after releasing <a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-music-taylor-swift-930a204fbbfccea45f6012f0da4feef6">her latest album “Midnights," which also broke a Billboard record.</a>The
 52-date Eras Tour kicks off March 17 in Glendale, Arizona, and wraps up
 with five shows in Los Angeles ending Aug. 9. International dates will 
be announced as well. It’s Swift’s first tour since 2018.But fans and families around the country <a href="https://apnews.com/article/taylor-swift-ticketmaster-concert-tickets-parents-34399cca6403c97f0983a5c69c7edec0">battled it out with long queues and error messages</a> to try to race to the checkout cart.Ticketmaster
 said that the site was overwhelmed both by real people and bot attacks 
resulting in unprecedented traffic on their site. The statement said 
about 15 percent of interactions with the site had problems, including 
errors that caused people to lose tickets after they had waited in an 
online queue."While it’s impossible for everyone to get tickets 
to these shows, we know we can do more to improve the experience and 
that’s what we’re focused on," the company statement said.Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Ticketmaster canceling next Taylor Swift concert ticket sale

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Someone who bought a Powerball ticket in 
Southern California has won a record $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot 
after more than three months without anyone hitting the top prize.

The
 winning numbers drawn Tuesday morning at the Florida Lottery draw 
studio in Tallahassee were: white balls 10, 33, 41, 47 and 56, and the 
red Powerball was 10.

The jackpot ticket was sold at Joe’s Service
 Center in Altadena, an unincorporated community in the foothills 
northeast of Los Angeles. A voicemail left for Joe’s Service Center was 
not immediately returned.

The jackpot was by far the largest 
lottery prize ever won, topping the previous record $1.586 billion prize
 won by three Powerball ticketholders in 2016. <a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-d074aec16d0f17eba2cc51c814faa99e">Only four previous jackpots</a>
 have topped $1 billion, but none of those are close to the current 
prize, which started at $20 million back on Aug. 6 and over three 
winless months has grown massive. No one has won the jackpot since Aug. 
3.

The jackpot was initially reported as <a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-drawing-today-what-to-know-75a57b3d83a5c5d1e0264c55261671cf">an estimated $1.9 billion</a> on Monday, but the prize was increased to $2.04 billion Tuesday morning after updated calculations.

The
 Multi-State Lottery Association said Monday night’s scheduled drawing 
was delayed by nearly 10 hours until Tuesday because a participating 
lottery had issues processing sales.

The problems in holding a 
drawing Monday night were blamed on one participating lottery's 
inability to process its sales data. After the lottery, which wasn't 
identified, completed its pre-draw procedures, the drawing was able to 
go ahead.

“Protecting the integrity of the draw is of upmost 
importance, and we were able to do that during this historic drawing 
with the cooperation of all participating lotteries,” said Drew Svitko, 
the chairman of the Powerball Product Group and executive director of 
the Pennsylvania Lottery.

Terry Rich, a former director of the 
Iowa Lottery who also served on the Powerball board, said the delay was 
likely due to a two-part verification system of ticket sales that makes 
use of an outside vendor to ensure all is in order before the game's 
numbers are drawn.

“Each state must verify through a dual process 
that all of the sales and dollars match before the Multi-State Lottery 
Association can do the draw," said Rich, who headed the Iowa Lottery for
 10 years and was president of the North American Lottery Association. 
“This is a state-by-state procedure, which separates the whole process 
and has been very effective."

Rich said state lotteries deal with 
similar problems several times a year but the delays usually don't 
attract much attention because the potential jackpots are far less than 
was up for grabs this week.

The winning numbers and recorded video of the drawing were posted to the Powerball's YouTube channel.

The $2.04 billion prize is for a <a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-annuity-vs-cash-0e741f164106c0f4dba89707c5763c99">winner who chooses an annuity</a>, paid annually over 29 years. Nearly all winners instead opt for cash, which was valued at $997.6 million.

The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million.

The game is played in 45 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667933043117.jpeg" alt="AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes" />
 <figcaption>AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes</figcaption>
 </figure>DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Someone who bought a Powerball ticket in 
Southern California has won a record $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot 
after more than three months without anyone hitting the top prize.The
 winning numbers drawn Tuesday morning at the Florida Lottery draw 
studio in Tallahassee were: white balls 10, 33, 41, 47 and 56, and the 
red Powerball was 10.The jackpot ticket was sold at Joe’s Service
 Center in Altadena, an unincorporated community in the foothills 
northeast of Los Angeles. A voicemail left for Joe’s Service Center was 
not immediately returned.The jackpot was by far the largest 
lottery prize ever won, topping the previous record $1.586 billion prize
 won by three Powerball ticketholders in 2016. <a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-d074aec16d0f17eba2cc51c814faa99e">Only four previous jackpots</a>
 have topped $1 billion, but none of those are close to the current 
prize, which started at $20 million back on Aug. 6 and over three 
winless months has grown massive. No one has won the jackpot since Aug. 
3.The jackpot was initially reported as <a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-drawing-today-what-to-know-75a57b3d83a5c5d1e0264c55261671cf">an estimated $1.9 billion</a> on Monday, but the prize was increased to $2.04 billion Tuesday morning after updated calculations.The
 Multi-State Lottery Association said Monday night’s scheduled drawing 
was delayed by nearly 10 hours until Tuesday because a participating 
lottery had issues processing sales.The problems in holding a 
drawing Monday night were blamed on one participating lottery's 
inability to process its sales data. After the lottery, which wasn't 
identified, completed its pre-draw procedures, the drawing was able to 
go ahead.“Protecting the integrity of the draw is of upmost 
importance, and we were able to do that during this historic drawing 
with the cooperation of all participating lotteries,” said Drew Svitko, 
the chairman of the Powerball Product Group and executive director of 
the Pennsylvania Lottery.Terry Rich, a former director of the 
Iowa Lottery who also served on the Powerball board, said the delay was 
likely due to a two-part verification system of ticket sales that makes 
use of an outside vendor to ensure all is in order before the game's 
numbers are drawn.“Each state must verify through a dual process 
that all of the sales and dollars match before the Multi-State Lottery 
Association can do the draw," said Rich, who headed the Iowa Lottery for
 10 years and was president of the North American Lottery Association. 
“This is a state-by-state procedure, which separates the whole process 
and has been very effective."Rich said state lotteries deal with 
similar problems several times a year but the delays usually don't 
attract much attention because the potential jackpots are far less than 
was up for grabs this week.The winning numbers and recorded video of the drawing were posted to the Powerball's YouTube channel.The $2.04 billion prize is for a <a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-annuity-vs-cash-0e741f164106c0f4dba89707c5763c99">winner who chooses an annuity</a>, paid annually over 29 years. Nearly all winners instead opt for cash, which was valued at $997.6 million.The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million.The game is played in 45 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Powerball ticket sold in California snags record $2.04B win

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Boot Hill Distillery owner Hayes Kelman.

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Boot Hill Distillery owner Hayes Kelman.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V5dXj8UcwAc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎤 Forward Ever: Boot Hill Distillery owner Hayes Kelman

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab about the upcoming November 2022 election.

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab about the upcoming November 2022 election.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4CT12zEhq6M" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎤 Forward Ever: Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with American Cancer Society chief patient officer Arif Kamal.

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with American Cancer Society chief patient officer Arif Kamal. <div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IeNjfIjMO0M" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎤 Forward Ever: American Cancer Society chief patient officer Arif Kamal

It's almost time for the Smoky Hill Museum Street Fair!

The event is scheduled for Saturday in and around the museum, 211 W. Iron Avenue in downtown Salina. Entry to the street fair is open to the public at no charge.

According to information from the museum, the street fair is a time to celebrate the Old West with a chili cook-off, music, activities, food vendors and, of course, the museum itself.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663609354689.jpeg" alt="Just a part of the crowd at the 2021 Smoky Hill Museum Street Fair.&nbsp;Salina Post file photo&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Just a part of the crowd at the 2021 Smoky Hill Museum Street Fair.&nbsp;Salina Post file photo&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTIt's almost time for the Smoky Hill Museum Street Fair!The event is scheduled for Saturday in and around the museum, 211 W. Iron Avenue in downtown Salina. Entry to the street fair is open to the public at no charge.According to information from the museum, the street fair is a time to celebrate the Old West with a chili cook-off, music, activities, food vendors and, of course, the museum itself.Salina's Old West is the theme for this year's parade, which is scheduled to kick off the festivities at 10 a.m. at the N. Santa Fe Avenue/Elm Street intersection. The parade will travel south on Santa Fe Avenue and conclude at South Street.A variety of activities will then be available in the area of the museum, including an Old West chuck wagon, horseshoe tossing, roping, archery, blacksmithing, chili cook-off, free make-and-take crafts, a caricaturist, and Color Me Crazy airbrush tattoos, according to information from the museum.Those attending will get the opportunity to taste a various chili samples and vote for the winner of the street fair chili cookoff from noon to 1:30 p.m. The cost is $2 to sample chili from six booths. The People’s Choice Award and best decorated booth winners will be announced at 2 p.m. on the main stage.Also on the main stage will be some returning favorites and some new acts. Following is the schedule and performer information as provided by the museum.11 a.m.: Steel Skarecrow.&nbsp;The Wichita-area band's unique sound is a blend of '90s country, modern country, red dirt, and southern soul.Noon: Everyday Lights.&nbsp;These Salina-based musicians have a love for folk and jazz rhythms. Their unique instrumentation and improvised harmony gives them a fresh, creative sound.1 p.m.: Don Wagner and Friends.&nbsp;This group is comprised of four local musicians. Because of their diverse musical backgrounds, the band arranges and performs a variety of musical genres ranging from folk and country to rock and blues as well as original compositions.2:15 p.m.: David Zerf.&nbsp;A singer-songwriter from Manhattan, this original Kansas Cowboy Minstrel's repertoire consists of Kansas cowboy and pioneer tunes, and original songs of Kansas frontier towns and characters.3 p.m.: Steel SkarecrowThe museum gallery is scheduled to be open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. with its special exhibit, Let’s Play. In addition, there is the popular hands-on interactive exhibit, The Curiosity Shop. The Museum Store also is scheduled to be open with selections of Kansas-made items and locally made artwork.