Politics3 min readAI

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Deals, Secrets, & Scams: Presidents' Day News Roundup

A Best Buy employee in Florida was charged with fraud after allegedly using his manager's code to discount nearly 150 items, including MacBooks, by as much as 99 percent, according to an ABC News affiliate. The employee, Matthew Lettera, conducted 97 discounted purchases for himself and 52 additional transactions for others, resulting in a loss of over $118,000 for the retailer, a local CW affiliate reported.

The manager reportedly became suspicious of unusual sales figures in December 2024, which led to a private investigation. The investigation traced the fraudulent activity back to Lettera. The case highlights the potential for internal theft and the importance of monitoring employee access to sensitive information, such as manager codes.

In other news, retailers are offering significant discounts on various gadgets and electronics for Presidents Day, according to The Verge. The publication reported that deals have been scarce since the holidays, but strong discounts are returning across several categories. These discounts include deals on earbuds, speakers, TVs, smart home tech, and other gadgets.

Meanwhile, the recent airspace closure over El Paso, Texas, and parts of New Mexico has raised concerns about the state of U.S. anti-drone defenses. The Federal Aviation Administration initially planned the closure to last 10 days, but it was ultimately shortened. As low-cost drone technology proliferates, analysts have warned of potential destructive attacks, making the development of safe countermeasures a challenge, according to Wired.

In other news, the ultrawealthy employ various strategies to reduce taxes and ensure the smooth transfer of wealth to future generations. Estate planning attorney Mark Bosler told Fortune that the wealthy use a different playbook than the average person, often utilizing trusts and other complex financial instruments. These strategies are designed to expedite payouts to heirs and minimize tax liabilities.

Finally, the US Forest Service Diaries, documenting the daily work of Ranger Reuben P. Box in the Lassen National Forest from 1927 to 1945, have been digitized and made available. These diaries provide a glimpse into forest management, fire suppression, law enforcement, and daily life in the California mountains, according to Hacker News. The diaries, scanned and digitized by Lance Orner, offer valuable historical context.

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Synthesized from multiple sources. Reviewed for accuracy.

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