You can trust VideoGamer. Our team of gaming experts spend hours testing and reviewing the latest games, to ensure you're reading the most comprehensive guide possible. Rest assured, all imagery and advice is unique and original. Check out how we test and review games hereOn release, Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl was a game that ran pretty damn well on Xbox Series consoles, but the release suffered from a devastated A-Life system. Now, a new patch fixes the games A-Life AI simulation, making the world feel more alive, but performance has suffered.In an interview shortly after launch, developer GSC Game World revealed that the games busted A-Life system was butchered by aggressive optimisation. Now that the system has been moderately fixed, although theres still a long way to go, the Xbox version of the game isnt running so hot.Stalker 2 A-Life kneecaps Xbox performanceFollowing the release of the Stalker 2 Patch 1.1 update, players immediately noticed a massive cut to performance on Xbox Series X and Series S. Prior to the update, the game was mostly stable, outside of key areas filled with NPCs and interactive elements.However, now, Stalker 2 runs at a significantly lower level of performance with even normal traversal through the games lush open world resulting in noticeable drops in framerate. What was once a smooth experience on console, despite the number of other technical issues, is buckling under the improved systems. But is it that bad?In our testing, Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl on Xbox seems mostly stable when moving across the world. However, when A-Life activities start taking placesuch as two factions fighting each other from afarthe framerate does noticably drop. While we dont have the bespoke framerate measuring tools of, say, Digital Foundry, my TVs VRR tracker noticed a drop down to 42fps, just barely hitting the VRR window.For players with VRR displays, this means that youll notice the game going in and out of that special window that makes games with uneven framerates feel better to play. For those without, the huge variance in performance may be very noticeable.Players on the official Xbox subreddit have noticed the significant cut in performance with one player saying: this patch has made performance much worse on XBSX. I was so excited to continue my playthrough over the holidays but now that there are more NPCs and mutants the framerate tanks down to 40fps or less when there is action happening.However, in our experience, which is only a couple of hours with this patch, the performance drop is worth the benefit. Even across just two hours of play, the world of Stalker 2 feels so much closer to its predecessors. This world is now truly alive, and we already adored the original release. That doesnt mean everything is fixed. For example, enemies still see you through walls and the like, but its much improved.If you can handle uneven performancealthough it has yet to drop under 30fps for usthen this update is absolutely balling.S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of ChornobylPlatform(s):PC, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series S/X, Xbox Series XGenre(s):Action, Adventure, RPG, Shooter, Survival HorrorSubscribe to our newsletters!By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.Share

You can trust VideoGamer. Our team of gaming experts spend hours testing and reviewing the latest games, to ensure you're reading the most comprehensive guide possible. Rest assured, all imagery and advice is unique and original. Check out how we test and review games here Contents hide The year is wrapping up, and this means stores are providing sales to help gamers splash the cash on a host of excellent video games for Christmas. The Steam Winter Sale 2024 start time countdown is nearly over, and its something players will want to take advantage of as the confirmed games list so far includes some major GOTY winners. While 2024 has been a very good year of releases, 2025 is poised to be even better before the knowledge of any delays. The GTA 6 release date is still pegged for 2025, although it wont launch day one on PC, and theres also upcoming releases for Borderlands 4, Kingdom Come Deliverance 2, and Assassins Creed Shadows. Yes, next year should be another phenomenal 12-months of video game releases, but, before the new year arrives, you will want to take advantage of the Steam Winter Sale 2024. The start time countdown is nearly over, and some exceptional games are known to be included. Steam Winter Sale 2024 start date The start date for the Steam Winter Sale 2024 is December 19th. This has been confirmed on the stores official X account. Valves promotion is no doubt fantastic, but PC players should also keep an eye on the Epic Games store. Starting today, too, the Epic Games store is giving away a free game every day until January 2nd as per dealabs. When does the Steam Winter Sale 2024?The start time for the Steam Winter Sale 2024 is 10AM PT/1PM ET/6PM GMT on December 19th. The store discounts will only last until January 2nd, so you will only have a couple of weeks to splurge on the sale. While Valves holiday discounts start today, we have to wait until December 31st for the Steam Award winners to be announced. Steam Winter Sale 2024 start time US 10AM PT on Thursday, December 19th1PM ET on Thursday, December 19th Steam Winter Sale 2024 start time UK 6PM GMT on Thursday, December 19th CountdownBelow is a countdown to when the store discounts will launch:Confirmed games list Below is the confirmed list of included games so far: Assassins Creed MirageBaldurs Gate 3 Castle Crashers Carx StreetCore KeeperFinal Fantasy 16 Helldivers 2 The Last of Us Part 1 Remastered Manor LordsMetal Slug TacticsPlanet Coaster 2 TCG Card Shop Simulator Sonic x Shadow GenerationsWe dont know the price slashes for the above games as of writing, but they were spotted in the trailer from Valve. Looking at the above list theres some exceptional games included. Baldurs Gate 3 won GOTY at The Game Awards 2023, meanwhile, Helldivers 2 won multiplayer game of the year at TGA 2024. The Last of Us Part 1 Remastered is also a beautiful visual overhaul of the 2013 game-of-the-year winner, and Final Fantasy 16 is arguably the best Final Fantasy installment after FF9, not including the FF7 Remake and Rebirth. When is the next Steam sale? Below are Valves next set of events confirmed up until July 2025:Winter Sale 2024 Dec 19th Jan 2ndReal-Time Strategy Fest Jan 20th 27thIdler Fest Feb 3rd 10thCouch Co-Op Fest Feb 10th 17thNext Fest February 2025 Feb 24th Mar 3rdVisual Novel Fest Mar 3rd 10thSpring Sale 2025 Mar 13th 20thCity Builder and Colony Sim Fest Mar 24th 31stSokoban Fest Apr 21st 28thWargames Fest Apr 28th May 5thCreature Collector Fest May 12th 19thZombies vs Vampires Fest May 26th June 2ndNext Fest June 2025 Jun 9th 16thFishing Fest Jun 16th 23rdSummer Sale 2025 Jun 26th Jul 10thIn other gaming news, Helldivers 2 CEO admits Arrowhead missed the mark with Killzone crossover prices. Subscribe to our newsletters!By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.Share

You can trust VideoGamer. Our team of gaming experts spend hours testing and reviewing the latest games, to ensure you're reading the most comprehensive guide possible. Rest assured, all imagery and advice is unique and original. Check out how we test and review games here Contents hide Call of Duty remains one of the largest franchises in gaming. Whether its Black Ops 6, Zombies, or Warzone, Activisions shooter series continues to attract millions of players wanting their fix of fast-paced action. Thanks to its free-to-play nature, Warzone continues to spark debate among players aiming to become the last one standing. The integration of Black Ops 6 into the battle royale hasnt been smooth with inconsistent hit registration and an infestation of hackers ruining both casual and competitive matches. To add even more fuel to the fire, one of Call of Dutys biggest streamers claims the latest cycle will be dead before the next season gets underway. Is Call of Duty dying?Following Activision admitting the publisher missed the mark with Ricochet anti-cheat, FaZe Clan member Swagg believes the current cycle wont last beyond the start of Season 2 which is expected to begin in late January 2025.Swagg is so convinced by the demise of Call of Duty, he says he wont bother playing Warzone or any other area of Black Ops 6 anytime soon. It appears Swagg isnt the only one who believes the death of Warzone is on the horizon. Game already dead, says one fan. People left in droves.On the other hand, others believe that the negativity among players is all part and parcel of the annual Call of Duty cycle where players have grown tired of whats on offer during the opening season. I see weve arrived at the yearly this is the worst the game has ever been part of the CoD cycle, comments an unconcerned player.The lack of anti-cheat has caused widespread frustration especially if youve attempted to load into Ranked Play matches in either Black Ops 6 or Warzone. Without any kind of preventative measures against hackers, the integrity of matches taking place in Call of Dutys competitive matches continues to be called into question. The next stepsActivision has already promised anti-cheat measures are on their way as part of the Season 2 update which is a step in the right direction. If Call of Dutys publisher is capable of tackling the cheaters quickly, theres a strong chance Black Ops 6 and Warzone will experience a resurgence in the not-too-distant future. Swaggs concerns are also shared by other content creators worried about what the future of Warzone and Call of Duty holds. With Verdansks return expected to result in a huge influx of players, only time will tell if this latest hiccup is another bump in Call of Dutys long road. For more CoD intel, check out all of the active promos along with the best controller settings guaranteed to keep you shooting straight.Call of DutyPlatform(s):macOS, PC, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360Genre(s):Action, First Person, ShooterSubscribe to our newsletters!By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.Share

In line with this eras embrace of earthiness, York Wallcoverings Fire Clay selection is an homage to the enchanting vistas of the Sonoran desert, imbuing the color with a sense of both warmth and worldliness. Inextricably linked with the Southwests love of terra-cotta, its a natural fit for cultivating ranchlike vibes on stucco exteriors or, naturally, livening up a roof. Inside, Fire Clays connection to humble yet masterful pottery breeds a sense of rusticity. And if youre simply interested in a color that can match aged oaks and leathers, Fire Clay fits the bill.Looking for even more insights on color? Be sure to read AD PROs 2024 Color Trends Report.Join NowHoliday Sale: Become an AD PRO member for only $20 $12 per monthArrowThis Time Last YearReview Predictions for the 2024 Color of the YearThough youll see a variety of blues in predictions for the 2024ranging from misty sky-like shades to bolder hues inspired by the sea and twilightcompanies are also offering up plenty of other options for designers with an eye towards trending colors. From light and airy hues to earthier, more muddy tones, 2024s selects serve moods for any room.Upward by Sherwin-Williams Sherwin-Williams looked to the skies to source its 2024 Color of the Year. Upward is a soft and beautiful blue, imbued with slight red undertones, a hint of gray, and some of the natural attributes we associate with green. Evocative of Scandi slow living or coastal vibes depending on its application, Upward is an asset for anyone looking to create a calming contrast from the busyness of modern life.Image courtesy Sherwin-WilliamsSkipping Stones by Dunn-Edwards Similar yet distinct from Sherwin-Williamss Upward, Skipping Stones takes its cues from the sea rather than the sky. Described by Dunn-Edwards color expert Deming Carpenter as a perfect bridge between warm and cool, this moody, meditative blue is a welcome addition to an interior, whether it appears on cabinets, all four walls, or more subtle applications. Its also right at home alongside the other nature-inspired colors of the New Dawn collection, part of the brands broader 2024 Color + Design Trends selections.Image courtesy Dunn-EdwardsCracked Pepper by Behr Behrs top pick for 2024 goes boldly back to black at a time when brighter near-neutrals would seem to rule the day. A luxe charcoal tone, Cracked Pepper proves that even a darker color can feel soft, cozy, and comfortable while still making a statement. Whether used as an anchor in a modern space or as feature of something more classic, there are plenty of reasons why this top seller in Behrs Designer Collection Palette is worthy of its Color of the Year status.Illustration courtesy BehrBlue Nova by Benjamin Moore Benjamin Moores Blue Nova is another mid-toned blue that balances the warm with the cool. Andrea Magno, the brands color marketing and development director, describes Blue Nova as a captivating, otherworldly color that captures the spirit of twilight to achieve something magical. As a matte finish, Magno appreciates its ability to introduce a velvety feel, but its also got the versatility to add an air of approachable excitement to kitchen islands, cabinetry, and even front doors.Image courtesy Benjamin MooreSweet Embrace by Dulux Described by Dulux as delicate and optimistic, Sweet Embrace exudes warm, welcoming qualities. Ready to illuminate rooms that otherwise dont see much sun or to create an oasis of calm in a home office, this lavender-leaning near-neutral can be either a foundational or transformational color depending on its application. No matter if its paired with greens and blues, an earthy orange, or a soft gold, Sweet Embraces light, airy attributes are a fit for any style or season.Image courtesy DuluxPeach Fuzz by Pantone Amid 2024s rising tide of cool tones, Pantones Peach Fuzz is a warming counterweight. Whether as a rug offering a textural contrast to harder surfaces or deployed as a dining room accent wall to create a convivial atmosphere, Peach Fuzz brings comfort, compassion, and connectivity to any space where people want to feel at ease. Capable of both standing out amid traditional neutrals and holding its own among todays landscape of brighter, bolder colors, expect to see Pantones pick pop up anywhere that calls for chilled out vibes or creative inspiration.Image courtesy PantoneViridis by Graham & Brown Viridis, Graham & Browns 2024 Color of the Year, is a garden of earthy green delight. The color plays well with the lush, forest scene of New Eden, the brands Design of the year, grounding the jewel tones of its illustrated flora and fauna. However, Viridis is more than capable of holding its own, bringing out the best of dark woods, soft decor, and any number of adjacent shades of green.Image courtesy Graham & BrownBay Brown, as shown in the Seesaw wallpaper by York Wallcoverings As rich as fertile soil and fine leather, York Wallcoverings choice of Bay Brown for 2024 is a reminder that greens and blues arent the hues found in nature. This particular neutral is stately enough to function in classical design contexts while possessing a depth that makes it a provocative choice for moodier, more contemporary spaces. But no matter how its used, Bay Brown carries with it a sense of quietyet unmistakableluxury.Image courtesy YorkMountain Sage by James Hardie Mountain Sage marks the first-ever Color of the Year selection for siding manufacturer James Hardie. Specifically billed as a trending color for exteriors, this neutral-tinged take on an earthy green shows that turning the home into a soothing sanctuary can start from the outside in. Available in various James Hardie sidings and trim battens, Mountain Sage offers mood-boosting tranquility while blurring the boundaries between the built environment and the natural world.Photography courtesy James HardieRenew Blue by Valspar Cant decide between the greens of today or the blues of tomorrow? Renew Blue, Valspars 2024 Color of the Year, rejects that false binary. As the name suggests, this blue is all about restoring equilibrium and recharging, managing to feel peaceful yet provocative. Whether grounded with help from neutrals like Perfect Backdrop and Dusk in the Valley or standing out on its own, theres no doubt that Renew Blue has what it takes to help your home feel like a space for getting in touch with your true colors.Image courtesy ValsparThis Time Two Years AgoReview Predictions for the 2023 Color of the YearFrom a cool color that gently nudges us away from last years dominant shade to a supersaturated hue that celebrates color at its richest, paint color picks in 2023 brought a range of design trends and moods into perspective. There may not be a single aesthetic theme, but as Behrs choice of Blank Canvas suggests, the years defining color story was whatever you chose to make it.Raspberry Blush by Benjamin MooreRepresenting a conscious desire to leave 2022s neutrals behind, Raspberry Blush is Benjamin Moores unapologetically bold choice for its 2023 Color of the Year. Warm and vivid, its designed to create an instant impression in both big or small doses, adding a touch of excitement and happiness to any space. I think theres definitely a wow factor, Benjamin Moore color marketing and development director Andrea Magno says. We just kept coming back to the color again and again and finding different things we really loved about it.Photography courtesy Benjamin MooreAlizarin by Graham & BrownGraham & Brown honoredAlizarin, a rich, stirring auburn hue, with its annual title. The color, which is named after the pigment spawned from the rubia plant species long utilized as a dye, evokes a lush, ebullient ambiance. With its warm richness and muted shade, Alizarin can infuse great rooms with a sense of old-world grandeur that feels incredibly timeless. Meanwhile, small spaces can benefit from the dose of color thats enlivening without being domineering. The water-based, low-VOC paint complements Florenzia Dusk, Graham & Browns 2023 wallpaper selection, which reimagines a floral pattern from the brands archives in shades of navy, gold, and rust.Photography courtesy Graham & BrownWild Wonder by DuluxWith roots in the natural world,Wild Wonder radiates positivity with a soft, slightly yellow glow. The magic of Duluxs selection is that it can continue to surprise and delight across contexts in the home. Whether used to foster a sense of comfort and shelter when paired with a neutral such as Duluxs Brave Ground in a bedroom or to create a sense of fun in a naturally lit living room alongside Manuka Honeybee and Rocksalt Rose accents, the color is an inspiring yet balanced selection fit for brighter days ahead.Illustration courtesy DuluxTerra Rosa by Dunn-EdwardsAs its name implies, Terra Rosa is also in the realm of earthy tones, pairing rich terra-cotta with a bit of dusty rose. Part of the brands Life in Poetry palette, the color more than holds its own as a dominant ground, while its muted shade makes it a tasteful, timeless accent to almost any color palette.Redend Point by Sherwin-WilliamsA dusty blush-beige with a desertlike feel, Redend Point sits at the center of both the neutral spectrum and the emerging trend towards energizing earth tones. Sue Wadden, Sherwin-Williamss director of color marketing, references notions of empathy and care culture when explaining the brands selection, so it only makes sense that Redend Point nicely adapts with its surroundings. Its a great option [that] plays well with other neutrals, Wadden says. If you put it next to beige, Redend Point really looks like a color. But on its own, you see that it really does act like a neutral, so its well-behaved.Illustration courtesy Sherwin-WilliamsVining Ivy by Glidden and PPGRepresenting a relatively subtle transition away from the neutral-ish greens that defined 2022, Vining Ivy successfully straddles the line between green and blue by incorporating jewel-like elements. Exuding the same kind of calm, grounding, natural qualities of a green while offering a bit of intrigue, Vining Ivy suggests that consumers arent quite ready to settle for just one color when the possibilities of the present feel so open-ended. Were really talking about how this color is both green and blue because, realistically, thats how our customers are talking about color, says Ashley McCollum, Glidden color expert, of the decision.Photography courtesy PPGBlank Canvas by BehrWhile Glidden and PPG chose to offer up green and blue as their color of the year, Behrs choice of Blank Canvas represents the starting point of a forked path: a journey towards a more colorful future, or one of a neutral, monochrome calm as seen in trending organic modern interiors. Despite the implications of its name, Blank Canvas is more than capable of standing on its own by offering a playful, warmer take on traditional white. And whenever youre ready to design your masterpiece, Erika Woelfel, Behrs vice president of color and creative services, sees Blank Canvas as the perfect artistic color for people to start expressing their creativity.Photo courtesy of BehrViva Magenta by PantoneA berry red that blurs the lines between warm and cool,Viva Magenta is the bold color that is turning heads on the runway and turning up in the metaverse. Described by Pantone Color Institutes executive director, Leatrice Eiseman, as audacious, witty and like a fist in a velvet glove, Viva Magenta can make a statement big or small, whether it is color-drenching kitchen cabinets or simply as an accent in colored glassware on open shelving. Indeed, its an appealing option for any room of the home that calls for a color that can be as alluring as it is accessible.Photo: Michael MarquandThis Time Three Years AgoReview Predictions for the 2022 Color of the YearPaint companies were strikingly in unison on the shade that would define 2022. Of course, outliers existed (such as Pantones Very Peri), but the manufacturers generally hovered in the pale green palette. Below, weve gathered a comprehensive rundown of the colors that companies like Behr, Sherwin-Williams, and more predicted would rule 2022.Breezeway by BehrA silvery green suitable for everything from beachside vibes to modern, contemporary settings, Behrs Breezeway inspires us to fully embrace the hobbies or adventures, both near and far, that excite us, said Woeful. A standout of the 20 shades comprising the companys 2022 Color Trends palette, Breezeway functions as an intriguing and perfectly viable neutral for those ready to brighten a space by bringing the outdoors in.Photo: Courtesy of BehrArt and Craft by Dunn-EdwardsThough visually a departure from the parade of pale greens other brands chose to define 2022 trends, Art and Crafta highlight of Dunn-Edwardss Naturrensing palettemaintains a similar connection to the earth and an ability to offer something more than just the neutrals of the past. This is a versatile color that we expect to see applied across a variety of industries and disciplines throughout 2022, said Sarah McLean, Dunn-Edwardss color expert and stylist, of this light and airy take on brown. Art and Craft is truly a down-to-earth color that signifies stability, comfort, and calm.Photo: Courtesy of Dunn-EdwardsEvergreen Fog by Sherwin-WilliamsAnother grayish green taking its name from thick, heavy air, Evergreen Fog is what Wadden called a universally accepted, super-versatile color thats emblematic of growth, rebirth, and joy. Capable of merging the spirit of organic modernism with the aesthetics of the 70s, Sherwin-Williams sees Evergreen Fog playing well on walls and cabinets at home, while also fitting in nicely with some of the interior design trends that the brand expects to define the commercial spaces of a post-pandemic world.Photo: Courtesy of Sherwin-WilliamsOctober Mist by Benjamin MooreAlthough the month that gives this color its name might conjure images of orange pumpkins or umber leaves, October Mist is among the soothing shades of green that offers a grounding connection to the natural world for 2022. Magno admitted that October Mist doesnt scream green, but much like the stem of a flower, this grayish shade blends in effortlessly while creating an opportunity for other dazzling colors to flourish.Photo: Courtesy of Benjamin MooreOlive Sprig by PPGAs the name suggests, PPGs Olive Sprig was another of 2022s grayish greens. The culmination of bubbling trends that were accelerated by the pandemic, Olive Sprig is usable and also aligned with the warm, colorful neutrals that we had seen rising in popularity, as PPG senior color marketing manager Amy Donato put it. Tying in with notions of renewal and rebirtha theme mentioned by multiple brandsOlive Sprig offers a chance to transition from cool grays to neutrals with a bit more personality.Photo: Gross&DaleyVery Peri by PantoneLast but certainly not least, industry leader Pantone announced its color of the year for 2022 in early December. The selection was Very Peri, a perfectly purple blue shade of periwinkle. For those who are gun-shy about using too much color and taking that first step, its a great color to use maybe just on one wall instead of all four walls, said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, and its decidedly different from any pale or olive green.Photo: Courtesy of PantoneBreathe by Graham & BrownNot content to let earthier greens and browns have all the fun, Graham & Browns Breathe shows that the idea of connection to nature can draw inspiration from the sky as well. The pale and powdery blue of Breathe also nods to wellness and sustainability, and the shade works remarkably well when paired with Restore Midnight, Graham and Browns deep blue, naturally inspired wallpaper of the year.Photo: Courtesy of Graham & BrownBright Skies by DuluxFitting for a year where forecasters latched onto the idea of brighter days ahead, Duluxs Bright Skies is an airy, open tone that can reinvigorate any room through the sense of freedom and possibility it offers. Honored as the brands color of the year by a team of international color and design experts, Bright Skies is a fun yet functional option that pushes the boundaries of a neutral without flying too close to the sun.Photo: Courtesy of DuluxGuacamole by GliddenWhile parent company PPG opted for Olive Sprig, Glidden advocated for a more festive and appetizing shade of green for 2022. Made for kitchens, Guacamole looks great against a white subway tile backsplash. And now that were cautiously entertaining more, its certainly a living room conversation-starter best discussed over a bowl of chips.Photo: Courtesy of GliddenCraving more color? Check out AD PRO's Color Trends Report, a full spectrum of color intel from interior designersfrom the non-negotiable color rules they live by to the palettes they're loving right now. Read more

From significant business changes to noteworthy product launches, theres always something new happening in the world of design. In this biweekly roundup, AD PRO has everything you need to know.In the NewsA pivotal legal win for Jean Royres estateA sofa from the Ours Polaire (Polar Bear) collection, which is now are now officially trademarks of Jean Royre SAS.Photo: Delphine ChanetIn 2022, the Estate of Jean Royre and Jean Royre SAS, which honors and faithfully reproduces the 20th-century French talents furniture designs, filed a lawsuit against designer Denis de la Msire and his atelier, Edition Modern, alleging that the studio had been manufacturing and selling unauthorized replicas of more than 50 original Royre designs. Recently the court ruled in favor of the Estate and Jean Royre SAS, validating claims of trademark and copyright infringement and unfair competition. The defendants have paid an undisclosed sum as compensation, ceased using the Royre name, and permanently terminated all sales of the illegitimate products. The victory protects the Royre oeuvre for generations to comeand underscores the importance of provenance and authenticity in the industry.AD PRO Hearsthat Dunes Point Capital has acquired a majority interest in trade furniture and textiles company Kravet Inc. for an undisclosed amount. The Kravet family, which is now in its fifth generation of leadership since the textile houses founding in 1918, announced they will continue to lead the corporate operations and maintain a significant ownership position.Design HappeningsDollhouses go designer at the third annual La Petite Maison GalaOn December 4, Houston design aficionados flocked to Hotel ZaZa in the citys Museum District for the aprs-ski-themed La Petite Maison Gala. Founded by local designer Alexandra Killion, the buzzy benefit tasks Texas-based architects, designers, and builders to construct fantastical dollhouses, which are then auctioned off to support a local nonprofit. This year, the miniature marvels by Jennifer Barron Interiors, Courtney Barton, Elizabeth Garrett Interiors, Amy Kummer Interiors, Kristen Leigh Studio, Jean Liu Design, Wills Design Associates, and AD PRO Directorys Avery Cox Design garnered $213,000 for Family Houston, which provides counseling and employment coaching. Structurally crafted by Reagan & Andr Architecture Studio and Alair Homes Houston, the miniature forms spanned aesthetics: Barrons Southern Georgianstyle abode flashed a teeny delft tile fireplace, while Coxs Art Deco meets Greco Roman villa was coated in jewel tones.AD PRO Hears

Welcome to AD PROs biweekly real estate roundup, covering the biggest deals, most important announcements, and notable listings.This week, a home once owned by Bob Dylan lists, a Sea Ranchinspired Malibu home asks $14.8 million, and Michael Jordan finally sells his custom Illinois home. In this roundup, AD PRO has everything you need to know.Notable ListingsIn Malibu, a refreshed modernist gem for $14.8 millionThe Point Dume neighborhood is famous for superb Californian surfing, fishing, boating, snorkeling, whale-watching, and scuba diving.Photo: Gavin CaterDefined by its simple forms and organic materials, the Sea Ranch planned community in Sonoma County is still attracting new converts decades after it began construction in the 1960s. In the 70s and 80s, architect Ron Goldman crafted a few Sea Ranchstyle homes in Malibu, offering a taste of the lifestyle for those who werent willing to leave the warmth of SoCal. AD PRO Directory firm Alexander Design has recently reimagined one of these homes, located in the Point Dume neighborhood. Its now on the market for $14.8 million.The five-bedroom, four-bathroom home is flooded with natural light from a bay of skylights above the open living space and floor-to-ceiling windows in most rooms. While the Sea Ranch approach is quite in line with contemporary Californian designs taste for earth tones, Alexander Designs fresh take is thoroughly 21st century. Stone countertops in the bathroom and kitchen, new appliances, custom lighting, and an integrated Sonos sound system disappear the notion that youve visited a different period. The revamped backyard has a new stone patio with a built-in fire pit and pizza oven station. Just around the corner, a new saltwater pool takes advantage of the ample backyard space.The listing is held by Branden and Rayni Williams of the Beverly Hills Estates.For $7.25 million, a Manhattan town house that Bob Dylan, Mike Nichols, and Mary Tyler Moore have all called homeTurtle Bay Gardens, nestled a mere few blocks away from the UN Headquarters and the East River, is now an official Historic District of New York City.Photo: Hayley Day / DDReps for Sothebys International RealtyYou might not think of Manhattans Midtown East as the hottest spot for celebrity real estate, but the collection of town houses on East 48th and East 49th streetsknown as Turtle Bay Gardenswere once home to a bevy of celebrities. Katharine Hepburn and Stephen Sondheim lived in the Gardens, as well as Bob Dylan, Mike Nichols, and Mary Tyler Moore. The latter three all lived in one particular town house, 242 East 49th Street, which has recently listed for $7.25 million.Bob Dylan purchased the town house in 1990 and owned it until 2005, per Curbed. The home contains five bedrooms and six bathrooms spread across five floors. The parlor level is the heart of the 5,400-square-foot residence, with French doors leading out to a brick terrace off of the living and dining space. Adjacent is a library lined with floor-to-ceiling bookcases, complete with a ladder and a wood-burning fireplace. The third and fourth floors each have two bedrooms, while the entire fifth floor is dedicated to the primary suite boasting a walk-in closet, another fireplace, and a south-facing terrace.The listing is held by Lisa Larson and Angela Wu of Sothebys International Realtys East Side Manhattan Brokerage.A Los Angeles property with AD100-designed landscapes firm asks $3.65 millionThe property is located at 1942 Lemoyne Street in East Los Angeles.Photo: Will MyersIndoor-outdoor living is one of the greatest perks of Los Angeles living, and theres perhaps no architectural style better suited to the lifestyle than modernism. One Echo Park property that fully embraces the genre is now on the market with an asking price of $3.65 million.The three-bedroom, two-bathroom home designed by Rachel Allen of Radar Inc. is surrounded by vegetation curated by AD100 landscape design firm Terremoto. Large windows in almost every room allow glimpses of greenery to serve as artwork in each space. Above the staircase that connects the upper and lower levels, a long row of skylights reveals a view of a mature tree. Most of the finishes are either white or wood, limiting the distraction from the natural features. Stone walking paths lead to additional garden spaces, a pool, and an additional structure (designed by Thinc Los Angeles) that currently serves as an artists studio.The listing is held by Jonah Wilson of Carolwood Estates.Notable salesMichael Jordan finally sells his Illinois mansionTheres no denying that Michael Jordan is a legendary athlete, but if the tale of his Highland Park, Illinois, mansion makes one thing clear, its that even the most talented have their fair share of struggles. Jordan first listed the property in 2012 for $29 million, per TheRealDeal, and after nearly 13 years, it has officially sold for $9.5 million.The home was custom built for Jordan and his then wife, Juanita Vanoy, in 1995. The sprawling 56,000-square-foot property has nine bedrooms, 15 full bathrooms, and four half-baths. Theres also a regulation-size basketball court and a full-size gym space that blurs the line between home gym and professional facility. An infinity pool, tennis court, putting green, and cigar room are among the many other amenities available on the property. The 8.4-acre lot is fenced in for privacy, with Jordans jersey number 23 prominently displayed on the iron gates.Jordan brought the homes asking price down numerous times over the 12 years that it was on the market, but its last asking was $14.855 millionconsiderably higher than the $9.5 million sale price it clinched in the recent deal.Model unitA new model unit in a building by AD100 Robert A.M. Stern ArchitectsClaremont Hall is located at 100 Claremont Avenue, near Riverside Park on the West side of Manhattan.Photo: Evan JosephClaremont Hall, a new 165-unit condominium development in Manhattan's Morningside Heights neighborhood, sits just a few blocks from the Columbia University Campus. The new 41-story structure was designed by AD100 Hall of Fame firm Robert A.M. Stern Architects with reference to the iconic Gothic architecture of the Union Theological Seminary campus in which it is located. Developers Lendlease and Daiwa House Texas Inc. are now sharing a glimpse inside a model unit designed by L.B. Copeland Interior Design.The three-bedroom units core living space offers vistas of the Hudson River and the Neo-Gothic Riverside Church. The blue and silver-ish tones of the furnishings and decor call these views into focus, while the brick exterior of the building is visible in the adjacent loggia. Vintage pieces were included throughout, with pieces by Maiden Home, McGee & Co., Jayson Home, and Dash & Albert are among the mix. The primary suite has direct access to a lengthy open-air terrace, giving the space an additional opportunity to enjoy outdoor living and the propertys phenomenal views.New developmentAuberge announces its first branded residences in Puerto RicoMoncayo spans 1,100 acres of Puerto Rican Eastern seacoast.Courtesy of Auberge Resorts CollectionAuberge Resorts has announced that its opening its first-ever branded residence collection in Puerto Rico. Studio Paolo Ferrari is designing the homes, which will include 15 detached villas, 50 condos and penthouses, and 70 custom homesites in addition to the hotel property.All of the residences will enjoy views of the Isla de Ramos, Vieques, and Culebra. Each will feature some element of outdoor livingwhether its in the form of a terrace, balcony, or rooftop space. The villas will be delivered fully furnished. Located within the 1,100-acre private community of Moncayo, residents will be able to enjoy a Mackenzie & Ebertdesigned golf course, private wellness facilities, and a 400-acre nature reserve. Theyll also have the ability to join the private Moncayo Ocean Club.We are honored to have been chosen to manage this remarkable Caribbean property that will set new standards for luxury in Puerto Rico and globally, Dan Friedkin, chairman of the Auberge Resorts Collection, said in a statement shared with AD PRO. Moncayo is an exciting addition to our collection of hotels, resorts and residences, and it aligns perfectly with our continued expansion into the most alluring destinations in the world.Units are expected to be delivered in 2027.

Blender Renaissance 2025 Megapack 20% off till 31st December By Blender Renaissance on December 19, 2024 Add-ons The Blender Renaissance Megapack offers a comprehensive collection of tools, assets, and features for Blender, including geometry node-based graphs, motion presets, animated text options, and extensive customization capabilities.All of my digital products (and resulting updates till December 2025) in one megapack.(20% off till December 31st 2024, Available only for 47.99 for Single seat and 95.99 for Multi-seat)Node Charts: Info Graphs For Blender Using Geometry Nodes CSV support MySQL Database support Dynamic Graphs Frame Rate changer Aspect Ratio changer Bar Graph Highlighting Bulk Font Changer Animation Duration Control for all Graphs Graphs are available to use in Asset Browser 24 Graphs: (Bubble Graph, Scatter Graph, Circle Graph, 2-3 Circle Graph, Candlestick Graph, 2-3 Pie Graph, Horizontal Bar Graph, Horizontal Bar Graph comparison, Horizontal Bar Graph Stacked, Horizontal Bar Graph Opposing, Pie Graph, Multiple Circle Graph, Multiple Pie Graph, Line Graph, Line Graph comparison, Mountain Graph, Mountain Graph Comparison, Radar Graph, US Data Viz Map, Vertical Bar Graph, Profit Loss Bar Graph, Vertical Bar Graph comparison, Vertical Bar Graph Stacked, Vertical Bar Graph Multiple) Five 3D Cycles Graphs: (Circle Graph, 2-3 Circle Graph, 2-3 Pie Graph, Pie Graph, Horizontal Bar Graph) Experimental GenAI support for 10 Graphs (API Charges separate) Python add-on automation Custom Animations for each Graph No need of Keyframes (Just change numbers) 12 Simple Customizable Callouts 5 Professional Title Animations 25 Dynamic Flag animations 4 Icon Animations Support for Brand Colors For Cycles and Eevee For Personal and Commercial use Made in Geometry nodes Customizable One Click Output settings Detailed PDF Manual and Video Training Tutorials available 1080p and 4K support 3 Free Background videos for Graphs Motion Presets For Blender One Click Animation Animate Multiple meshes at once Delta Keyframes used (non-destructive) Ready to use 108 Motion Presets 52 Motion Presets for Blender VSE Mix and Match presets to create new animations Relative Keyframe support Works with any text, mesh and curve Saves Time and Effort Uses Python Shaded Monkey mesh from poster PDF and Video Training Tutorial available For beginner and Advanced users For Personal and Commercial use Quick Support Multi-Platform Support: (macOS, Linux, Windows) Node + Vse Titles - Animated Text For Blender Using Geometry Nodes And Python 20 Professional Title Animations 26 VSE Text Animation Presets 12 Simple Customizable Callouts 25 Dynamic Flag animations 4 Icon Animations Auto-resizing Titles Can be used as Lower Thirds Link Text Strip Length (VSE titles) Link Text Strip Properties (VSE titles) 24FPS and 30FPS available Bulk Font Changer using Python Addon All assets are available to use in Asset Browser Custom Animations for each Titles For Cycles and Eevee For Personal and Commercial use Made in Geometry nodes Limitless customization Detailed PDF Manual and Video Training Tutorials available My Notes On Making Money With BlenderPDF, EPUB and AZW3 FormatThanking you,Vikrant JadhavBlender RenaissanceProduct link: https://a.blendernation.com/go/go.php?src=BN&url=https://blendermarket.com/products/blender-renaissance-megapack&code=73a5d835049e50e9d03654c025c02fc1

Tech Massive data breach at federal credit union exposes 240,000 members Find out what information has been compromised and how to stay safe Published December 19, 2024 10:00am EST close 'CyberGuy': This years most devastating data breaches Kurt Knutsson: Data breaches in 2024 exposed info of millions, stressing the need for better cybersecurity. SRP Federal Credit Union, a South Carolina-based financial institution, had a major data breach impacting more than 240,000 people.The credit union handles highly sensitive information of hundreds of thousands of Americans, which is now in the hands of cybercriminals.SRP revealed in a notice that the data breach was part of a two-month attack by hackers, raising concerns about how it took the company so long to detect unauthorized entry into its systems. I discuss the details of the data breach, its impact on people and what you need to do to stay safe. Illustration of a hacker at work (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)What you need to knowSRP Federal Credit Union has reported a data breach that exposed the personal information of more than 240,000 individuals, according to documents filed Friday with regulators inMaine andTexas.The company said it discovered suspicious activity on its network and notified law enforcement. An investigation determined that hackers accessed the credit unions systems between Sept. 5 and Nov. 4, potentially acquiring sensitive files. The investigation concluded on Nov. 22, the company said.SRP did not specify the exact details exposed in its notice to Maine regulators, saying only that names and government-issued identification were affected in the cyberattack.However, in a filing with Texas regulators, the company said names, Social Security numbers, drivers license numbers, dates of birth and financial information, including account numbers and credit or debit card numbers, were compromised. SRP said the breach did not affect its online banking or core processing systems. Illustration of a hacker at work (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)Whos responsible for the breachSRP has not disclosed who was behind the attack or the attackers' motives. However, the ransomware group Nitrogen claimed responsibility last week, alleging it had stolen 650 GB of customer data, according toThe Record. Ransomware attacks use malicious software to block access to a victims files, systems or networks and demand payment to restore access.The credit union could face legal challenges following the data breach, as Oklahoma City-based Murphy Law Firm isinvestigating claims on behalf of individuals whose personal information was exposed. The firm is also encouraging affected individuals to join a potential class-action lawsuit.SRP will provide impacted individuals with free-of-charge identity theft protection services, so take advantage of it to safeguard your information.We reached out to SRP for comment but did not hear back by our deadline.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? A person working on their laptop (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson)7 ways you can protect yourself from SRP data breachIf you have received a notice from SRP Federal Credit Union about the data breach, consider taking the following steps to protect yourself.1. Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your bank accounts, credit card statements and other financial accounts for any unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity. Contact one of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian or TransUnion) to place a fraud alert on your credit report, making it harder for identity thieves to open accounts in your name.2. Freeze your credit: Consider freezing your credit to prevent new accounts from being opened without your consent. This service is free and can be lifted at any time.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE3. Use identity theft protection services: Consider enrolling in identity theft protection services that monitor your personal information and alert you to potential threats. These services can help you detect and respond to identity theft more quickly. Some identity theft protection services also offer insurance and assistance with recovering from identity theft, providing additional peace of mind.See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft.4. Change your passwords: Update passwords for your online accounts, especially those related to banking and email. Use strong, unique passwords and consider using apassword manager to generate and store complex passwords. Also,enable two-factor authentication for added security.5. Beware of phishing scams: Be cautious of emails, texts or calls claiming to be from SRP or related organizations. Avoid clicking on links or providing personal information unless you verify the sender.The best way to safeguard yourself from malicious links is to have antivirus software installed on all your devices. This protection can also alert you to phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe.Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices.6. Keep your device's operating system updated:Make sure your cellphone and other devices automatically receive timely operating system updates. These updates often include important security patches that protect against new vulnerabilities exploited by hackers. For reference, see my guide onhow to keep all your devices updated.7. Invest in personal data removal services: Consider services that scrub your personal information from public databases. This reduces the chances of your data being exploited in phishing or other cyberattacks after a breach.Check out my top picks for data removal services here.Kurts key takeawayThe SRP Federal Credit Union data breach is a harsh reminder of how vulnerable our sensitive information can be. Over 240,000 individuals had their personal data compromised, including Social Security numbers, drivers licenses and financial details. Even more alarming is the two-month window hackers had to exploit the credit union's systems before being detected. This highlights significant gaps in cybersecurity protocols. If youre an SRP customer, monitor your accounts closely, enable fraud alerts and consider identity theft protection services to stay ahead of potential threats.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APPDo you think financial institutions should be held more accountable for data breaches like this one? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.Follow Kurt on his social channels:Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:New from Kurt:Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com.All rights reserved. Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurts free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Amazon warehouse workers and delivery drivers at seven facilities in the metro areas of San Francisco, Chicago, Atlanta, Southern California, and New York City are out on strike today, in what the union says is the largest strike against Amazon in U.S. history. Unionized workers at Staten Islands JFK8 fulfillment center have also authorized a strike and could soon follow.Workers in all these locationsfive delivery stations and two fulfillment centershave already shown majority support and demanded union recognition. The Teamsters set Amazon an ultimatum: recognize the unions and agree to bargaining by December 15, or face strikes. Amazon hasnt moved.They are skirting their responsibility as our employer to bargain with us on higher pay and safer working conditions, said Riley Holzworth, a driver who makes deliveries from the DIL7 delivery station in Skokie, Illinois. At the DBK4 delivery station in Queens, New York, cops swarmed and arrested an Amazon driver who stopped his van in support of the strike. Then they forcibly broke the picket line. In anticipation of a possible strike at JFK8, police had camped out by the facility in advance.The Teamsters have made organizing Amazon a priority; the New York Times reported that the union has committed $8 million to the project, plus access to its $300 million strike fund.ALL YOU CAN THINK OF IS SLEEPThe strikes timing is strategic: package volumes balloon around the holidays, known as peak season, so its no easy feat for Amazon to cope with disruption. During the 2023 holiday season, Amazon netted 29 percent of all global online orders.To keep up with the surge in demand, many workers are forced to work mandatory overtimechildcare and other obligations be damned. They give us one day extra, plus one hour extra a day, said Wajdy Bzezi, a shift lead steward who has worked at JFK8 since 2018. I barely see my son. Whan you think of the holidays you think of spending time with your family, you think of reconnecting, said Ken Coates, a packer who has worked at JFK8 for five years. And during peak, all you can think of is sleep.To help meet the increased demand the company has hired 250,000 seasonal workers across the country. This influx could also dilute strike power, though seasonal workers face the same stressors and often support the union push.PEAK SEASON, INJURY SEASONRushed training for the seasonal hires has knock-on effects that leaves everyone less safe.Just this past month I think I ran into half a dozen new employees that didnt know how to do the job, Coates said. Not due to any fault of their own, due entirely to the fault of their trainer not giving them adequate time.For instance, Coates says, new workers assigned to rebin duties (moving items from the conveyor belt to a designated shelf so packers can package and ship them) can unintentionally push items too far across the shelf, where they fall off the other side and hit packers.Peak season at Amazon means peak injuries for workers. A July interim report from the Senates Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee found that injury rates skyrocket during Prime Day and the holiday season.During the week of Prime Day 2019, the report found, Amazons rate of recordable injuries would correspond to more than 10 annual injuries per 100 workersmore than double the industry average. During that same period, Amazons total rate of injuries (including those that do not need to be reported to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA) would correspond to almost 45 injuries per 100 full-time workers. That is to say, if they kept up the Prime Day pace, nearly half the workers would be injured in a year.There hasnt been a year that Ive worked at Amazon where we havent broken a record in the number of packages weve handled, said Coates.IT DOESNT FEEL LIKE A JOB THAT SHOULD BE LEGALEven outside the busy season, the work is grueling. Amazons relentless productivity quotas are nearly impossible to meet safely, forcing workers to barter their backs and knees for $18 an hour.A new report from the same Senate committee has found that Amazons injury rate is having a significant and growing impact on the average injury rate for the entire warehouse sector.Amazon is a corporation that transports goods and breaks down bodies. And why wouldnt it, when this level of exploitation is incentivized at every turn? Reporting requirements are easily bypassed; the company appears to be using its on-site health facilities to obscure the true number of injuries sustained by workers on the job, or to shift the blame to workers for using improper technique.SUPPORT LABOR NOTESBECOME A MONTHLY DONORGive $10 a month or more and get our "Fight the Boss, Build the Union" T-shirt.I couldnt tell you how many times Ive been injured on the job, said Coates. In our bathroom theres a mirror that says, Youre looking at the person who is most responsible for your safety. It pisses me off every time I have to see it. Thats just them passing off the buck. The OSHA penalties for instances that do get reported are capped at around $16,000 for each serious violation, the report notes. For a company making $70,000 in profits per minute, thats just the cost of doing business. It doesnt feel like a job that should be legal, Holzworth said. Ive had a lot of different jobs in this industry, and this one by far feels like my employer is really getting away with a lot. A GLOBAL FIGHTWorkers organizing at key chokepoints in the supply chain have managed to extract a few concessions from Amazon, including increased pay for Chicago-area delivery station workers and the reinstatement of a suspended air hub employee in San Bernardino and another in Queens. But Amazon has made significant investments that reduce its vulnerability. The expansion of its fulfillment network allows the company to reroute orders within its network of warehouses and reduces its reliance on any one location in the event of strikes or disruptions. Building sufficient power to tip the scales will require organizing across the global supply chain.Around the world, the company has fiercely opposed organizing efforts, leaning on anti-union tactics like delaying elections, holding captive-audience meetings, and going on a hiring spree ahead of a union election to dilute the vote.Between 2022 and 2023, Amazon spent more than $17 million on union avoidance consultants. And where other companies are content to bring in these swindlers to train management, Amazon is sometimes cutting out the middleman and hiring them directly as managers.TAKE SOME ACCOUNTABILITYFor delivery drivers, theres another wrinkle: The drivers officially work for third-party contractors known as delivery service partners (DSPs), allowing Amazon to skirt responsibility.When drivers unionized last year at a DSP in California called Battle-Tested Strategies, Amazon ended its contract and cut tieswith the contractor, effectively firing the 84 drivers (Amazon was the companys only client, and the company hasnt operated since.)This year, Amazon pulled the same stunt when drivers organized at a DSP in Illinois, Four Star Express Delivery.Amazon maintains that since drivers are employed by DSPs, it has no duty to bargain with the workers. But drivers call bullshit, insisting that Amazon meets the legal standard for a joint employer: We drive your branded van, we wear your uniform, said Rubie Wiggins, a delivery driver at Amazons DAX5 facility in Southern California. Take some accountability. WE CAN BRING THEIR STANDARDS HERESafety is a central concernand a key organizing issue. Delivery vans are packed to the brim, forcing some drivers to jam packages behind seats and behind any available crevice.It looks like a crypt in your van, said Andrew Wiggins, Rubies husband, who works for the same DSP. A lot of drivers put packages on the dash, wherever they can. Its very unsafe, but people are just doing what they have to do.Rubie and Andrew talk regularly with UPS delivery drivers about the benefits of a strong union contract. Its amazing what you hear that they have, Rubie said. They have mechanics on site, they can watch their vehicles on site, we dont have any of that. When you see that UPS is less profitable than Amazon and theyre able to do that for their drivers, you really want to tell Amazon, Please take care of me like that. At Amazon its like, in order to perform, you have to think in your head a complete system of exact steps, Holzworth said. Im gonna organize my packages in this way and as soon as I stop, Im gonna engage the brake, pull out the keys, take off my seatbelt, in this order every single time so that youre wasting as few seconds as possible. If Amazon can have this as their business model, whats the future working conditions gonna look like for other corporations? Rubie Wiggins said. We have nieces and nephews, I have younger brothers. Whats the workforce gonna look like for them in a couple years?You get a lot of Why dont you work for UPS? she said. Were drivers already. We can bring their standards here. We can start making the working conditions better here.

Why it matters: It's not just corporate employees leaving over the company's aggressive return-to-office policy that Amazon has to worry about. Workers at seven of its facilities walked off the job this morning in what their union is calling the "largest strike" against Amazon in US history. According to the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, which represents 10,000 workers at ten Amazon facilities, warehouse workers in cities including New York, Atlanta, and San Francisco are taking part in the strike.The union had given Amazon a December 15 deadline to begin talks with employees, but the company has refused to negotiate contracts with unionized workers."If your package is delayed during the holidays, you can blame Amazon's insatiable greed. We gave Amazon a clear deadline to come to the table and do right by our members. They ignored it," Teamsters General President Sean M. O'Brien said in a statement."These greedy executives had every chance to show decency and respect for the people who make their obscene profits possible. Instead, they've pushed workers to the limit and now they're paying the price. This strike is on them."The prospect of not receiving your Amazon-bought goods in time for Christmas is certainly concerning. However, Amazon says that it does not expect the strike to impact its operations. A company spokesperson said the union continues to "intentionally mislead the public claiming that they represent 'thousands of Amazon employees and drivers'. They don't, and this is another attempt to push a false narrative."Amazon added that the Teamsters have threatened, intimidated, and attempted to coerce Amazon employees and third-party drivers. It says such actions are illegal and the subject of multiple pending unfair labor practice charges against the union. // Related StoriesStriking during Amazon's busiest period of the year will cause some headaches for the company and customers, but its unionized facilities make up only about 1% of Amazon's hourly workforce, and areas such as New York have multiple warehouses and smaller delivery depots, writes Reuters.Amazon has long faced accusations that its warehouse employees have to endure abusive and dangerous working conditions. The company continues to deny these claims, despite repeatedstrikes by staff.A US senate committee released a report on Amazon's warehouse safety practices on Sunday. It stated that at least two internal studies showed a link between the speed at which workers perform tasks and workplace injuries, but Amazon rejected many safety recommendations as it feared they may reduce productivity.Amazon said the report was "wrong on the facts and features selective, outdated information that lacks context and isn't grounded in reality."November saw the launch of the Make Amazon Pay campaign, in which Amazon workers and allies in more than 20 countries strike and protest against what it calls the company's anti-worker and anti-democratic practices. The actions, which took place over Black Friday weekend, are now in their fifth year.