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CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Jonathon Brooks doesn’t know how he’ll feel once Sunday comes, once his long-awaited debut for the Carolina Panthers is here. Same goes for Jonathon’s brother, Jordon. Same goes for his mother, Jennifer Donovan, too. The same probably is true for the throngs of people in Hallettsville, Texas, who’ve been reading all the injury news and calling anyone and everyone they know in Charlotte to get the latest update on their hometown hero. There’s one person who the family has been wondering about, specifically, though. He’s been the subject of the question Jennifer, Jordon and Jonathon have asked more and more lately, as the Panthers’ contest with the Kansas City Chiefs at 1 p.m. Sunday in Bank of America Stadium approaches. What would Dad think? “It’s funny because Jordon and I, we say that a lot, too,” Donovan told The Charlotte Observer over the phone earlier this week. “We just really wonder what Skip would be saying. How would he be reacting?” “Honestly, I don’t know,” Jordon began. He then laughed. “I mean, well, I do know.” James “Skip” Brooks would be happy, the son said. “And I can only imagine how happy he’d be.” When Jonathon Brooks makes his NFL debut Sunday, he’ll be playing for a lot of people. The second-round draft pick, who has missed the first chunk of his rookie season recovering from an ACL tear he suffered Nov. 11 of last year, will be playing for his friends. He’ll be playing for his teammates. He’ll be playing for his mother, who helped raise her shy kid from a small southern Texas town who has a gift for finding the open field. He’ll be playing for his brother, who he used to ride bikes with and jump on trampolines with and played living room football with until the end zone couches couldn’t take anymore. He’ll also be playing for his father, who fueled his football dream, who died in 2022 but who Brooks is convinced has been watching over him since. “I feel like I play for a bigger reason,” Jonathon said. “I play for God, my family.” As he always has. Even when it wasn’t easy. The 3 touchdowns the Brooks family won’t forget Ask about Jonathon, and there are three trips to the end zone that stick out in the Brooks family’s collective memory. It’s not hard to see why. The first came when Jonathon was a freshman at Hallettsville High. Jordon, then a senior, remembers it well. It was the seventh week of the 2017 football season, and Jonathon, who’d been tearing it up at the JV level, had gotten called up to varsity. The offense was less than 5 yards away from the end zone. For years, Jordon had seen what others hadn’t. That’s what happens when you’re two of nine grandchildren, part of a big family that featured three uncles and five aunts on Dad’s side and three uncles on Mom’s. It’s also what happens when you’re the son of Skip. Skip Brooks was born and raised in Shiner, Texas, a slightly bigger town than neighboring Hallettsville that is known for its Shiner Bock beer. He was a football player back in the day and used to tease his kids that he was a great running back, too — that they’re lucky they didn’t have video to show how elusive he was. Skip loved his boys and loved pushing them in their shared passion for football. He coached them at times when they were running around in the community’s youth leagues. Jordon acknowledges that “I know he’s my brother and all” but “the way he could see the field was insane at a young age.” And that’s why when coach called a handoff-counter-right on that Friday night in the fall of 2017, Jordon knew what would happen: a touchdown. With no planned celebration, Jonathon just sprinted to his brother, who’d already jogged to his position as a blocker on the PAT team, and jumped up and celebrated with a shoulder bump. A newspaper photographer captured it mid-air; that’s one of Jennifer’s favorite pictures in her scrapbook, she said. “I almost wish they were closer in age and could have more time playing together because it was just really a lot of fun,” Jennifer said. “Everybody in town was super excited.” The second memorable touchdown came four years later, while Jonathon was at Texas. A lot had happened in those four years. He’d go on long road trips with his father and brother — from San Antonio to Florida to California — to play football and get people to see him play. As a sophomore, Jonathon was offered a scholarship to Texas. As a senior, he lived up to that billing, putting up stats that made eyes across the country pop: 3,530 yards and 62 touchdowns on 350 carries. Who is this guy, and where is Hallettsville? That second special touchdown came late in the fourth quarter in a game against Rice. The Longhorns were on the good side of a blowout. Brooks took a handoff from the shotgun, ran left and sliced through the defense for a 17-yard score. That score was the only one he got in the 2021 season, when he backed up Bijan Robinson, now with the Atlanta Falcons. It was also the only collegiate touchdown his father saw. Skip Brooks passed away March 28, 2022, during a spring practice of Jonathon’s sophomore year. Kidney disease ran in the family, and he was on and off dialysis for years. A few months after restarting dialysis in December 2021, he underwent surgery, and complications from that surgery formed a blood clot, which ultimately killed him. The loss of Skip was an incalculable one for a Shiner community who adored him and a devastating one for the family who loved him. That leads us to the third touchdown — and to the many more thereafter. Jonathon and Jordon, a few weeks after the death of their father, each got tattoos on their forearms that read the date March 28, 2022 in roman numerals with “Dad” emblazoned over it. Every time Jonathon stomps into paydirt now — and every time he will in the future — the shy, small-town Texas kid taps his forearm, as if he’s ringing Skip’s heavenly doorbell, and points to the sky. ‘To finally live out his dream’ You’re probably familiar with Jonathon Brooks from here. After waiting two seasons to be the premier back at Texas — behind talents Roschon Johnson and Robinson — he broke out like everyone figured he would as a redshirt sophomore. In 11 games that 2023 season, he finished with 1,139 yards and 10 touchdowns rushing, enough to solidify him as one of the best running backs in the country. That 11th game, against TCU, Brooks tore his right ACL. That meant no NFL scouting combine. No Senior Bowl appearances. But that didn’t stunt Brooks’ NFL stock. The Panthers selected Brooks in the second round of this year’s draft, making him the first running back taken off the board. And despite reports of his timeline being ready by training camp — that it was a complete tear, making the recovery process potentially less complicated — the Panthers’ brass made it clear that they were content taking their time with Brooks. That time almost came two weeks ago, when Brooks was activated to the 53-man roster. But on Sunday, that time will finally come: Panthers coach Dave Canales said that he “fully expects” Brooks to make his debut against the Chiefs — and it’s possible to expect him to get more touches than he otherwise might, with typical third-down back Miles Sanders still nursing an ankle injury from Week 10. It might not be a lot of touches, of course. Panther running backs not-named Chuba Hubbard have only earned 42 rushes through 10 games. But the most memorable moments for Jonathon haven’t come in the biggest seasons, after all. They’ve come in the smaller moments. They’ve all involved his family, too: as a freshman in high school celebrating with his older brother; as a freshman at Texas scoring the last touchdown Skip saw; as a player now, every time he hits the end zone and points to his father. To Brooks, family is everything. And everyone can tell. “It would be amazing,” Ja’Tavion Sanders said Monday. The jovial rookie tight end said this when he was asked how he might feel when Jonathon — his Texas Longhorn teammate and next-door locker buddy who considers himself an honorary member of the Brooks family — finally makes his NFL debut. He said it in earshot of Brooks, who could only smile and shake his head as Sanders bragged on him. “All the trials and tribulations, and then him putting all the work in just to get back to this point and to ultimately have his debut, to finally live out his dream that he’s worked so hard for, I’ll be so excited,” Sanders continued. “Hopefully I’m in when he gets that first carry so I’m blocking for him.” Jonathon’s mother feels the same. Jordon does as well. They, too, have thought about Skip a lot — whether that be while walking their two golden doodles, Nala and Nova, or while Jordon chips away at getting his commercial driver’s license. Skip, after all, was an 18-wheel truck driver and carried lumber and pipes across the country while always finding ways to prioritize one of his joys: watching his sons play football. As Sunday approaches, the question gets louder: How would Dad feel? “I wonder that,” Jennifer said. “Because he was kind of an introvert. He didn’t show a whole lot. Didn’t say a whole lot, sometimes even. But I do want to believe that he would have some tears. I do. Just proud. Just feeling really happy that his child has done this. And he pushed it and wanted it so bad for him. I think he would probably have some tears. He might wipe them real quick so nobody sees. But I think he would be feeling quite a lot.” Skip would have every right to. He has every right to. As does his son. ©2024 The Charlotte Observer. Visit charlotteobserver.com . Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.Thieves get a taste for cheese and butter amid surging prices
Friday, December 27, 2024 Phuket welcomes global luxury enthusiasts to the Thailand International Boat Show 2025, showcasing superyachts, villas, marine tech, and lifestyle from Jan 9-12. PHUKET, THAILAND – From January 9–12, 2025, the picturesque island of Phuket will host the highly anticipated Thailand International Boat Show at Phuket Yacht Haven Marina. Renowned as a hub for high-net-worth individuals and luxury enthusiasts, this prestigious event will spotlight an impressive array of superyachts, luxury villas, marine innovations, and lifestyle experiences, solidifying Phuket’s status as a global luxury destination. Building on its record-breaking success, the 2025 Thailand International Boat Show promises to be the largest and most exciting edition yet. With over 50 boats on display in the water, 60+ exhibitors, and expanded exhibition spaces both onshore and offshore, organizers are forecasting the event to generate over one billion baht for Thailand’s marine leisure and luxury lifestyle industries. Phuket’s tourism resurgence further sets the stage for the event’s success. As reported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the island is on track to welcome 13 million international visitors this year. This surge has also bolstered its appeal as Asia’s premier destination for luxury holiday homes, drawing high-net-worth individuals seeking exclusive villas and embracing Phuket’s unique blend of yachting and opulent living. Thailand’s government is leveraging events like the Thailand International Boat Show to bolster luxury tourism and marine development. This includes enhancing facilities for visiting superyachts and growing the cruise tourism sector. In alignment with these goals, the 2025 event will host a diverse lineup of exhibitors featuring not only yachts and marine services but also luxury real estate and lifestyle offerings. Esteemed international boat brands and brokers will be in attendance, with highlights including: Additional participants like DCH Marine, Sunreef Yachts, and Asiamarine will contribute to an unparalleled display of craftsmanship and innovation. Newcomer Primus Marine is set to impress with the largest in-water lineup, including six boats from Aquila and Beneteau. Onshore, visitors can explore cutting-edge marine technology, water toys, and luxury real estate developments such as Aquella Lakeside Villas and The Standard Residence, Bangtao. The 2025 event offers unique experiences, including the VIP Lounge hosted aboard the Superyacht Lady Eileen II and the Exhibitors and Captain’s Lounge on the Free Bird . This marks the first time these exclusive spaces are set aboard superyachts, elevating the event’s allure. The Thailand International Boat Show is more than a business event; it’s a celebration of culture and lifestyle. From live DJ performances and alfresco dining to Children’s Day activities on January 11, there’s something for everyone. The four-day event will also feature the Thailand Yachting Conference and Gala Dinner on January 8 at the Splash Beach Resort, kicking off the festivities in style. The Thailand International Boat Show runs daily from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM, except for an earlier closing at 7:00 PM on Sunday, January 12. Admission is free, ensuring accessibility for all to enjoy this grand showcase of luxury and innovation. Prepare to be captivated as Phuket opens its doors to the world, celebrating the finest in marine leisure, luxury, and lifestyle at the Thailand International Boat Show 2025.
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By DAVID A. LIEB Artificial intelligence. Abortion. Guns. Marijuana. Minimum wages. Name a hot topic, and chances are good there’s a new law about it taking effect in 2025 in one state or another. Many of the laws launching in January are a result of legislation passed this year. Others stem from ballot measures approved by voters. Some face legal challenges. Here’s a look at some of the most notable state laws taking effect: California, home to Hollywood and some of the largest technology companies, is seeking to rein in the artificial intelligence industry and put some parameters around social media stars. New laws seek to prevent the use of digital replicas of Hollywood actors and performers without permission and allow the estates of dead performers to sue over unauthorized AI use. Parents who profit from social media posts featuring their children will be required to set aside some earnings for their young influencers. A new law also allows children to sue their parents for failing to do so. New social media restrictions in several states face court challenges. Related Articles National Politics | Trump has pressed for voting changes. GOP majorities in Congress will try to make that happen National Politics | Exhausted by political news? TV ratings and new poll say you’re not alone National Politics | Looking for relevance in Republican Florida, Democratic leader seeks distance from progressives National Politics | Fate of Trump’s Cabinet picks unclear as Republicans prepare to take power in Senate National Politics | Trump vows to pursue executions after Biden commutes most of federal death row A Florida law bans children under 14 from having social media accounts and requires parental consent for ages 14 and 15. But enforcement is being delayed because of a lawsuit filed by two associations for online companies, with a hearing scheduled for late February. A new Tennessee law also requires parental consent for minors to open accounts on social media. NetChoice, an industry group for online businesses, is challenging the law. Another new state law requires porn websites to verify that visitors are at least 18 years old. But the Free Speech Coalition, a trade association for the adult entertainment industry, has filed a challenge. Several new California measures aimed at combating political deepfakes are also being challenged, including one requiring large social media platforms to remove deceptive content related to elections and another allowing any individual to sue for damages over the use of AI to create fabricated images or videos in political ads . In a first nationally, California will start enforcing a law prohibiting school districts from adopting policies that require staff to notify parents if their children change their gender identification . The law was a priority for Democratic lawmakers who wanted to halt such policies passed by several districts. Many states have passed laws limiting or protecting abortion rights since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned a nationwide right to the procedure in 2022. One of the latest is the Democratic-led state of Delaware. A law there will require the state employee health plan and Medicaid plans for lower-income residents to cover abortions with no deductible , copayments or other cost-sharing requirements. A new Minnesota law prohibits guns with “binary triggers” that allow for more rapid fire, causing a weapon to fire one round when the trigger is pulled and another when it is released. In Delaware, a law adds colleges and universities to a list of school zones where guns are prohibited, with exceptions for those working in their official capacity such as law officers and commissioned security guards. Kentucky is becoming the latest state to let people use marijuana for medical purposes . To apply for a state medical cannabis card, people must get written certification from a medical provider of a qualifying condition, such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, epilepsy, chronic nausea or post-traumatic stress disorder. Nearly four-fifths of U.S. states have now legalized medical marijuana. Minimum wage workers in more than 20 states are due to receive raises in January. The highest minimum wages will be in Washington, California and Connecticut, all of which will top $16 an hour after modest increases. The largest increases are scheduled in Delaware, where the minimum wage will rise by $1.75 to $15 an hour, and in Nebraska, where a ballot measure approved by voters in 2022 will add $1.50 to the current minimum of $12 an hour. Twenty other states still follow the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour. In Oregon, using drugs on public transit will be considered a misdemeanor crime of interfering with public transportation. While the measure worked its way through the legislature, multiple transportation officials said drug use on buses and trains, and at transit stops and stations, was making passengers and drivers feel less safe. In Missouri, law enforcement officers have spent the past 16 months issuing warnings to motorists that handheld cellphone use is illegal. Starting with the new year, penalties will kick in: a $150 fine for the first violation, progressing to $500 for third and subsequent offenses and up to 15 years imprisonment if a driver using a cellphone cause an injury or death. But police must notice a primary violation, such as speeding or weaving across lanes, to cite motorists for violating the cellphone law. Montana is the only state that hasn’t banned texting while driving , according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Tenants in Arizona will no longer have to pay tax on their monthly rent , thanks to the repeal of a law that had allowed cities and towns to impose such taxes. While a victory for renters, the new law is a financial loss for governments. An analysis by Arizona’s nonpartisan Joint Legislative Budget Committee estimated that $230 million would be lost in municipal tax revenue during the first full fiscal year of implementation. Meanwhile Alabama will offer tax credits to businesses that help employees with child care costs. Kansas is eliminating its 2% sales tax on groceries. It also is cutting individual income taxes by dropping the top tax rate, increasing a credit for child care expenses and exempting all Social Security income from taxes, among other things. Taxpayers are expected to save about $320 million a year going forward. An Oklahoma law expands voting privileges to people who have been convicted of felonies but had their sentences discharged or commuted, including commutations for crimes that have been reclassified from felonies to misdemeanors. Former state Sen. George Young, an Oklahoma City Democrat, carried the bill in the Senate. “I think it’s very important that people who have gone through trials and tribulations in their life, that we have a system that brings them back and allows them to participate as contributing citizens,” Young said. Associated Press writers Trân Nguyễn in Sacramento, California; Kate Payne in Tallahassee, Florida; Jonathan Mattise in Nashville, Tennessee; Randall Chase in Dover, Delaware; Steve Karnowski in Minneapolis; Bruce Schreiner in Frankfort, Kentucky; Claire Rush in Portland, Oregon; Summer Ballentine in Jefferson City, Missouri; Gabriel Sandoval in Phoenix; Kim Chandler in Montgomery, Alabama; John Hanna in Topeka, Kansas; and Sean Murphy in Oklahoma City contributed.