Latest news with #McFall
Scottish Sun
09-05-2025
- Sport
- Scottish Sun
‘Very rare' Celtic match-worn shirt from Hoops icon's 1953 testimonial lost in the post as buyer hits out at Royal Mail
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) FOOTBALL fans will pay crazy money to get their hands on prized memorabilia worn by their favourite heroes over the years. But one Celtic fan might be wishing tight now that they had gone back in time and stopped themselves from purchasing a match-worn shirt from 1953 after he revealed it got lost in transit. 3 The shirt was put up for sale by auction house Whyte's 3 A close look at the collar of the iconic jersey Paul McFall, who is a collector of Celtic and Scotland match-worn tops, has taken aim at Royal Mail and accused them of losing an iconic shirt which he ordered. The collector took to social media to express his outrage after waiting four weeks to hear a response from Royal Mail over the delivery after the item was shipped on April 10. Inside the package was a "very rare" match-worn top from Willie Maley's testimonial match against Bohemians 72 years ago. Posting on X, McFall wrote: "Well @RoyalMail have just informed me today that a parcel I have been waiting for 4 weeks to be delivered has been lost by them. "The contents, a very rare 1953 match-worn Celtic Shirt worn in the Willie Maley Testimonial match v Bohemians." McFall also shared a screenshot of the tracking history of the parcel, showing how it had been received at the Heathrow International hub on April 12, but that was the end of the chain. It's unknown which individual donned the jersey for the game but the real significance is the match itself. Maley remains one of the most significant people in Celtic's history having become the club's first ever and longest serving manager, holding the position for 43 years. He won 30 major trophies, including 16 league titles and 14 Scottish Cup. And Celtic faced the Irish side on August 8, 1953, to commemorate and honour the legend. Moment Celtic players and fans celebrate as Hoops clinch fourth successive title Maley, who was 85 at the time, kicked the game off and Celtic went on to win the match 10-1. Jock Stein was one of the Hoops players who starred in the clash. McFall spent €800 (£670) to purchase the shirt but a Royal Mail spokesperson said: 'We deliver more than a billion parcels every year, with the vast majority delivered successfully. "We encourage any customer who experiences a loss to contact us directly and we will investigate.' 3 Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page
Yahoo
12-04-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Voices of Veterans: Major John McFall shares his story of service in the US Army, Texas National Guard
Apr. 11—AUSTIN — Texas Land Commissioner and Veterans Land Board (VLB) Chairwoman Dawn Buckingham, M.D., is proud to introduce the next installment of the series highlighting the VLB's Voices of Veterans oral history program. This week, they highlight the service of Major John McFall who served in the U.S. Army and the Texas National Guard. Born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa, McFall said he joined the U.S. Army in September 1943, following his membership to the religious order, Brother of the Christian Schools in the Catholic Church. While he joined the Army, his first two choices wouldn't take him because of an unknown vision problem. "I decided I'd leave the order and I came home to where my mother lived, and the war was going on, and I thought that I was really healthy and everything, and so I went down to try to enlist in the Marines and they wouldn't take me because I had a bad eye, and I went to the Navy and they wouldn't take me because I had a bad eye," McFall explained. "I found out that I was born with a congenital cataract in my right eye and I didn't know that at the time." McFall said he figured he would give it one last chance and went to volunteer for the U.S. Army and if he didn't get accepted, he would go back to college. As fate would have it, they took him and, as a result, McFall would be part of some of bigger battles throughout Europe, Rome and Southern France. "I figured well, I'll get into something, even I could get into military intelligence or something that would really be good, you know, for the Army and it wouldn't be too much danger to me, although I wasn't really concerned about that too much. I didn't want to get killed, of course," he said when asked about his initial thoughts on joining up. "I kind of spoke French and being a Catholic brother and all, I was really good at Latin and I had a little Spanish, and I thought maybe I, the Army could make use of some of my language like interrogating prisoners of war or something. I was fairly optimistic about it." McFall said once he joined, he was sent to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas before being sent, almost immediately, to Camp Blanding, Florida where he received basic training as a rifleman, a position within the Army that requires good eyesight but something McFall knew he didn't have. "I couldn't fire a rifle with my right eye because I couldn't see the sight, but they let me fire left handed down in basic training," McFall said. "It was 13 weeks and I was a pinup corporal. They put, I was a recruit or a private, but I was a squad — they made me a squad leader and they gave me corporal stripes to wear around and I had the charge of a squad in basic training." McFall said after his 13 weeks of basic training, he quickly was sent overseas because, at that time, things were starting to heat up for the for Army. Once he arrived, he remembered his first duty assignment well. "There were 36 of us came in as replacements to one company of Company E, the 141st Infantry of the 36th Infantry Division which had really been clobbered at Casino, and probably lost half their regimental personnel in the Division in two attempts to cross the Rapido River," McFall recalled. "So there was a massive replacements came into this company and so I, there was one opening in the mortars and I said I wanted the mortars. So I was a crewman on a 60 millimeter mortar in the rifle company of an infantry regiment." McFall said the first combat he saw as part of the 36th Division, which was 13,000 men, when they were sent to the Anzio Beachhead, located roughly 17 miles south of Anzio, Rome. "The Germans didn't know it was coming or anything like that and when they found out, the way they found out about it was when the Americans and English unloaded and got there. But Hitler sent a whole bunch of Panzer divisions down there to contain the Anzio beachhead because he didn't want Rome to fall," McFall explained. "Rome was the big, would be the first big, you know, capital that would fall to our troops." McFall added they lost a lot of men along the way and recalled a moment the Germans tried their best to stop his unit, firing artillery shells as they crossed a field. "I heard it come in, so I hit the ground, and I put my head down and I put my arms around my helmet so that my face would be kind of protected as much as possible. I was just lying on top of the ground and this shell came in and I thought it was gonna hit me right in the head, but it went right over me and hit my buddy — well it hit between me and my buddy who was on the ground behind me, and it really hurt him bad," McFall explained, adding he did everything he could to help him before he was sent to a hospital in North Africa but later, he said, died because of that attack by the Germans. Click here to listen to Maj. John McFall tell his story.
Yahoo
05-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
10 Tips for Balancing Family, Finances and Freedom in Your Retirement
Thinking about retirement can be overwhelming, especially if you're still raising children or supporting them in college, caring for elderly parents and working. Managing your finances now and looking ahead to financial freedom during retirement is a big load. That's why we talked to an expert on the subject. Trending Now: For You: James McFall is a certified financial planner (CFP) who is the founder, managing director and senior financial advisor of Yield Financial Planning. He has been in the financial industry for over 20 years. He's helped hundreds of people plan and manage their finances, so they can live the life they want, both now and well into retirement. His expertise includes retirement planning, tax structuring, investing in shares, property and debt markets, debt restructuring and more. Here are his 10 tips for balancing family, finances and freedom in your retirement. The first step to finding financial freedom in your retirement, while finding time for family, is to figure out what it is you want. 'Before diving into the financial side of retirement, pause and ask yourself: 'What does the best version of retirement look like for me?' When I talk with my clients about retirement, I ask them to imagine their ideal lifestyle with no compromises,' McFall said. 'Because if there ever comes a time when choices need to be made, having a clear picture upfront makes it easier to prioritize what truly matters.' Check Out: More than one-third of employees in the private sector don't have a retirement plan. 'This is where setting clear and realistic retirement goals becomes so powerful,' McFall explained. 'Think about both your short-term desires, like taking that long-awaited trip across Europe and your long-term ambitions, like leaving a financial legacy for your family or staying financially independent for as long as possible.' Now that you have a vision, McFall wants you to get a clear plan written down. 'To understand what it will take to fund them and where you currently stand,' he said. 'Start by looking at your income, expenses, assets and liabilities. How much does your lifestyle cost today? And what might change in retirement?' These questions are critical to move forward with a plan. 'As you outline your living costs, account for unavoidable expenses like housing, food, clothing, utilities, transportation, insurance and healthcare,' McFall added. 'Then think about what you want, like holidays, supporting your children, car upgrades and entertainment.' 'Defined-contribution plans are one of the most powerful tools for funding your retirement and it's designed specifically for that purpose. It's also incredibly tax-effective, which means more of your money stays with you in retirement,' McFall explained. 'You can make different types of contributions, like concessional (pre-tax), non-concessional (after-tax), spouse contributions, catch-up contributions and downsizer contributions. Understanding how to use them can significantly boost your retirement nest egg,' he added. 'Also, knowing when you can access your super is just as important. While everyone can access it once they turn 65, you may be able to access it earlier if you've reached your preservation age and have retired,' he said. 'For many people approaching retirement in the next few years, this age is likely to be 60, depending on their birth year.' Figuring out these defined-contribution plans and how they will benefit you will pay off tremendously in your retirement years. One big problem for many is that they have a single income stream. When that dries up, you're in trouble. 'I always remind our clients that retirement isn't just about having savings, it's about having a strategy to turn those savings into income,' McFall said. Contributing to retirement plans is a key pillar, but it's not the only option. Depending on your situation, SMSFs, companies, trusts, joint investments or business structures can help you manage tax effectively, diversify your holdings and protect your wealth. As you approach retirement years, it's time to start thinking outside of the box. 'Diversifying your investments can help create multiple sources of income,' McFall explained. 'Managed accounts, shares, property, ethical investments, managed funds and ETFs are all strategies that can help you maintain financial stability while allowing your portfolio to grow over time.' The right mix of income streams will ensure you enjoy freedom and family with financial independence to boot. But what about taxes? McFall covers us there, too. 'Whether you're still building your wealth or already thinking about retirement, having a smart tax strategy can make a big difference to your long-term financial outcomes,' he said. Tax structuring simply refers to how your assets are owned and what legal structure they sit in. For instance, are your investments in your name? Shared with your partner? Held through a family trust, a company or inside your super? Each of these setups has different tax rules, advantage and disadvantages. These are conversations you should be having with your family, with your estate attorney and with your accountant, of course. 'Especially once you hit the retirement phase, where earnings can even become tax-free,' McFall added. 'Trusts give you the flexibility to share income between family members. Companies can help you lock in a fixed tax rate. And holding assets jointly with your partner might work well if one of you is on a lower tax rate.' You want to think now about how to structure your taxes during retirement best. You're usually better off paying taxes now, so you won't have to pay later when you're on a more fixed income. You're not just saving and cutting taxes, however. You also want to get clear of all the debts you can, without sacrificing your wealth. 'Instead of putting every spare dollar into debt, consider combining repayments with smart investment and tax strategies. For example, selling an asset to pay off debt might be a good move,' McFall explained. 'But is it the right time? If yes, it could reduce your capital gain tax. Likewise, consider using an income-generating investment to help you cover repayments without eating into your savings. Also, don't underestimate the power of debt restructuring. Refinancing or consolidating debt can reduce your interest costs. And if you haven't already set up a proper repayment plan, now is the time. Focus on clearing high-interest debt first, but also think about whether any of your debt is tax-deductible. That can make a real difference to what they're actually costing you in the long run.' The goal isn't just to be debt-free. It's to be in control of your money, including your debt. You want to head into your retirement with more freedom and flexibility. If you've been living large, you might want to reevaluate that lifestyle. Why? 'Downsizing can be a great way to free up cash, simplify your lifestyle and better align your living space with your retirement goals,' McFall said. 'While your home holds sentimental value, it may no longer suit your future plans or budget.' Here's how McFall explained downsizing can support you: Free up equity to boost your super or fund your lifestyle. Lower ongoing costs like maintenance, utilities and rates. Access tax-free super contributions of up to $300,000 per person through the downsizer scheme. Move into a home that better suits your needs, maybe closer to family, health facilities or something easier to manage. It's not just about moving to a smaller home; it's about making space for the lifestyle and financial freedom you truly want in retirement. The bottom line: if you don't need it and you don't use it, why do you still have it if it's costing you money? While we all dream of being the picture of health well into our golden years, it doesn't always work out that way. 'Old age care might not be the first thing when planning for retirement, but it really should be. The costs can add up fast if you need support at home or a residential care facility,' McFall said. 'There are daily fees, means-tested charges and accommodation costs, which can really add up and affect your finances. So, planning early can help you avoid unexpected stress.' According to the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, 70% of people who reach age 65 will end up requiring some type of elderly assistance, often long-term care. 'Rather than leaving it to chance, take the time now to understand what's coming,' McFall said. 'That way, you'll be in a better position to make smart decisions that suit your needs and lifestyle. 'Estate planning isn't just about having a will; it's about making sure your wishes are clear, your loved ones are looked after and your legacy is protected.' McFall said a good estate plan can help you: Decide who gets what (and when) Reduce tax for your beneficiaries Avoid family disputes Make sure your super and insurance go to the right people Appoint someone you trust to make decisions if you can no longer 'It's not the easiest conversation to have, but sorting it now means peace of mind for you and less stress for your family later,' he added. You're better off having too much insurance as you age than not enough. Why? 'Retirement planning isn't just about growing your money and ensuring it's protected. Let's be real: things don't always go to plan,' McFall explained. 'A sudden health issue or an accident can disrupt your life in ways you didn't see coming. That's why having the right insurance in place is so important. Also, as your situation changes, it's worth reviewing your policies to make sure they still suit your needs and give you good value.' Here are some key types of insurance to consider: Income Protection Insurance (IP): If you're unable to work due to illness or injury, this can help cover your regular expenses with a monthly benefit until you recover. Trauma Insurance: Pays a lump sum if you're diagnosed with a serious condition, like cancer, stroke or a heart attack. Total and Permanent Disability (TPD): Provides a lump sum if you can't return to work permanently. It can help with things like medical costs, adjustments to your home or ongoing bills. Life Insurance: Gives financial support to your family if something unexpected happens to you. Finally, remember you're not alone. 'Retirement planning comes with a lot of decisions and it's completely normal to have questions, whether it's about retirement plan contributions, investments, tax, old age care or estate planning,' McFall said. 'That's where speaking with an experienced financial advisor can make a difference. 'Investment markets, tax laws and government benefits don't stay the same and what works today might not be relevant next year or in five years. At the same time, no two retirements are the same. So, advice that's right for someone else may not be the best fit for you,' he added. Work with an advisor who understands the retirement landscape and takes the time to listen, understand your goals and create a plan tailored to your unique situation. With the right support, you can feel more confident in your decisions and focus on enjoying the retirement for which you've worked hard. More From GOBankingRates 6 Used Luxury SUVs That Are a Good Investment for RetireesI'm Retired and Regret Moving to Arizona -- Here's Why How Much Money Is Needed To Be Considered Middle Class in Every State? This article originally appeared on 10 Tips for Balancing Family, Finances and Freedom in Your Retirement Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
05-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Construction begins on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers new hopper dredge
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Construction on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' new medium class hopper dredge is officially underway. Eastern Shipbuilding crews held a traditional steel-cutting ceremony Friday morning at the Allanton Shipyard. Eastern is building the vessel for the U.S Army Corps of Engineers' Ready Reserve Fleet. It will respond to emergency dredging jobs, operating about 70 days of the year. 'Congress passed a law long ago that said dredging is so critical. We want to make sure as a nation that we have a ready reserve fleet, proper dredges, and other dredges that can respond in the event that private businesses can't respond timely. So that's exactly what this ship will do,' Eastern Shipbuilding Group CEO Joey D'Isernia said. Buy surplus government vehicles and equipment at Panama City auction The hopper dredge is the primary tool used in beach renourishment projects. However, this vessel will be primarily used to dredge shipping channels up to 100 feet deep. 'We have over 45,000 miles of coastline in inland navigation federal channels that must be dredged to ensure that we support economic growth in the country and in the region,' U.S Army Corps of Engineers Headquarters Director of Operations Stephen Hill said. The hopper dredge costs about $250 million to build. The Army Corps will pay for it with money generated from other projects. 'It's like taking out a loan from ourselves. We borrowed money from ourselves to award a contract to build the vessel. And then once it's in place, the service will repay the loan by a daily rental where the costs go up between $120,000 a day to run the McFall, to pay the crew the oil to take care of the vessel,' U.S Army Corps of Engineers Regional Business Director John Primavera said. It will take up to 30 months to finish the dredge. Once completed, the vessel will work out the Philadelphia district. It has not yet been named. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Ammon
25-02-2025
- Health
- Ammon
British "parastronaut" becomes first person with a disability to be cleared for ISS mission
Ammon News - The world's very first astronaut with a physical disability has been cleared to head on a mission to the International Space Station (ISS) in the future. On Friday, The European Space Agency (ESA) announced John McFall, who is also a British surgeon and former Paralympic sprinter for Great Britain, had been given medical clearance for a longer mission on the ISS. The astronaut, who lost his leg in an accident when he was 19, said he was proud following the news. He hopes it'll change people's ideas about what those with disabilities are capable of achieving. "This is way bigger than me this is a cultural shift," the astronaut said at an online press conference. Since McFall was first announced as an ESA astronaut in 2022, the agency has been looking into how possible it would be for someone who uses prosthetics to become a crew member on a space mission. There isn't a set date for when McFall will become the first "parastronaut", but the The next phase of the process will look at what will be needed so he can best overcome any additional challenges he encounters in space.
