NEW DELHI (AP) — India’s former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, widely regarded as the architect of India’s economic reform program and a landmark nuclear deal with the United States, has died. He was 92. Singh was admitted to New Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences late Thursday after his health deteriorated due to a “sudden loss of consciousness at home,” the hospital said in a statement. “Resuscitative measures were started immediately at home. He was brought to the Medical Emergency” at 8:06 p.m., the hospital said, but “despite all efforts, he could not be revived and was declared dead at 9:51 p.m.” Singh was being treated for “age-related medical conditions,” the statement said. A mild-mannered technocrat, Singh became one of India’s longest-serving prime ministers for 10 years and leader of the Congress Party in the Parliament's Upper House, earning a reputation as a man of great personal integrity. He was chosen to fill the role in 2004 by Sonia Gandhi, the widow of assassinated Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi . But his sterling image was tainted by allegations of corruption against his ministers. Singh was reelected in 2009, but his second term as prime minister was clouded by financial scandals and corruption charges over the organization of the 2010 Commonwealth Games. This led to the Congress Party’s crushing defeat in the 2014 national election by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party under the leadership of Narendra Modi . Singh adopted a low profile after relinquishing the post of prime minister. Prime Minister Modi, who succeeded Singh in 2014, called him one of India’s “most distinguished leaders” who rose from humble origins and left “a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years.” “As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives,” Modi said in a post on the social platform X. He called Singh’s interventions in Parliament as a lawmaker “insightful” and said “his wisdom and humility were always visible.” Rahul Gandhi, from the same party as Singh and the opposition leader in the lower house of the Indian Parliament, said Singh’s “deep understanding of economics inspired the nation” and that he “led India with immense wisdom and integrity.” “I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride,” Gandhi wrote on X. The United States offered its condolences, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken saying that Singh was “one of the greatest champions of the U.S.-India strategic partnership.” “We mourn Dr. Singh’s passing and will always remember his dedication to bringing the United States and India closer together,” Blinken said. Born on Sept. 26, 1932, in a village in the Punjab province of undivided India, Singh’s brilliant academic career took him to Cambridge University in Britain, where he earned a degree in economics in 1957. He then got his doctorate in economics from Nuffield College at Oxford University in 1962. Singh taught at Panjab University and the prestigious Delhi School of Economics before joining the Indian government in 1971 as economic advisor in the Commerce Ministry. In 1982, he became chief economic adviser to the Finance Ministry. He also served as deputy chair of the Planning Commission and governor of the Reserve Bank of India. As finance minister, Singh in 1991 instituted reforms that opened up the economy and moved India away from a socialist-patterned economy and toward a capitalist model in the face of a huge balance of payments deficit, skirting a potential economic crisis. His accolades include the 1987 Padma Vibhushan Award, India’s second-highest civilian honor; the Jawaharlal Nehru Birth Centenary Award of the Indian Science Congress in 1995; and the Asia Money Award for Finance Minister of the Year in 1993 and 1994. Singh was a member of India’s Upper House of Parliament and was leader of the opposition from 1998 to 2004 before he was named prime minister. He was the first Sikh to hold the country’s top post and made a public apology in Parliament for the 1984 Sikh Massacre in which some 3,000 Sikhs were killed after then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was assassinated by Sikh bodyguards. Under Singh, India adopted a Right to Information Act in 2005 to promote accountability and transparency from government officials and bureaucrats. He was also instrumental in implementing a welfare scheme that guaranteed at least 100 paid workdays for Indian rural citizens. The coalition government he headed for a decade brought together politicians and parties with differing ideologies that were rivals in the country’s various states. In a move hailed as one of his biggest achievements apart from economic reforms, Singh ended India’s nuclear isolation by signing a deal with the U.S. that gave India access to American nuclear technology. But the deal hit his government adversely, with Communist allies withdrawing support and criticism of the agreement growing within India in 2008 when it was finalized. Singh adopted a pragmatic foreign policy approach, pursuing a peace process with nuclear rival and neighbor Pakistan. But his efforts suffered a major setback after Pakistani militants carried out a massive gun and bomb attack in Mumbai in November 2008. He also tried to end the border dispute with China, brokering a deal to reopen the Nathu La pass into Tibet, which had been closed for more than 40 years. His 1965 book, “India’s Export Trends and Prospects for Self-Sustained Growth,” dealt with India’s inward-oriented trade policy. Singh is survived by his wife Gursharan Kaur and three daughters. Associated Press writer Sheikh Saaliq in New Delhi contributed to this report.Health Secretary Wes Streeting insisted he is “determined” to improve healthcare for trans people as he announced an indefinite ban on puberty blockers for children. The decision was announced after the Government took advice from independent experts who warned prescribing such medication to under-18s for gender dysphoria “presents an unacceptable safety risk for children and young people”. While puberty blockers had been banned on the NHS – outside clinical trials – since March, an order preventing the prescription of the medication from European or private prescribers since May had only been temporary. The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said legislation was being updated on Wednesday to make that order indefinite, and that the ban will be reviewed in 2027. While health is a devolved matter, the ban applies across the UK, the department said, adding that the decision had been taken in consultation with the Scottish and Welsh governments, and in agreement with the Northern Ireland government. Mr Streeting, making a statement in the House of Commons, acknowledged the decision will not be welcomed by everyone but sought to reassure young trans people. He said he had met many of them since taking up his post in July, and listened to their concerns, fears and anxieties. In a message directly to them and referencing having come out as gay, he said: “I know it’s not easy being a trans kid in our country today, the trans community is at the wrong end of all of the statistics for mental ill health, self-harm and suicide. “I can’t pretend to know what that’s like, but I do know what it’s like to feel you have to bury a secret about yourself, to be afraid of who you are, to be bullied for it, and then to experience the liberating experience of coming out. “I know it won’t feel like it based on the decisions I’m taking today, but I really do care about this and so does this Government. I am determined to improve the quality of care and access to healthcare for all trans people.” Green MP Sian Berry said she was “extremely worried and fearful” about the decision, describing it as “discriminatory”, while Labour’s Alex Sobel suggested it was “an attack on trans young people”. Mr Streeting said decisions were being taken “based on the evidence and advice of clinicians, not politics or political pressure”. The decision came after the Commission on Human Medicines (CHM) concluded puberty blockers for people with gender dysphoria presented “an unacceptable safety risk for children and young people under 18 years without significant additional safeguards”. NHS England said the decision “closes a loophole that posed a risk to the safety of children and young people” through private provision. The ban applies to new patients only, with NHS and private patients already receiving these medicines for gender dysphoria continuing to have access. Puberty blockers will also still be available in cases of young people experiencing early puberty, with Mr Streeting saying they are “safe and proven for use” in this way. The Cass Review into children’s gender care had concluded the quality of studies claiming to show beneficial effects of puberty blockers for children and young people with gender dysphoria was “poor”. Its author Dr Hilary Cass, now Baroness Cass, welcomed the Government’s announcement, describing puberty blockers as “powerful drugs with unproven benefits and significant risks”. She said: “That is why I recommended that they should only be prescribed following a multi-disciplinary assessment and within a research protocol. “I support the Government’s decision to continue restrictions on the dispensing of puberty blockers for gender dysphoria outside the NHS where these essential safeguards are not being provided.” Despite opposition from some, plans remain in place to set up a clinical trial into the use of puberty blockers next year, with an aim to recruit the first patients by spring. Mr Streeting said the trial will help to “establish a clear evidence base for the use of this medicine”. Recognising division on the subject, he told the Commons: “There are some who have called on the Government n ot to go ahead with the clinical trial recommended by Dr Cass. “Others on the opposite side of this debate want the Government to ignore the recommendations of the independent expert Commission on Human Medicines. “We are taking a different approach. The decisions we take will always be based on the evidence and advice of clinicians, not politics or political pressure.” James Palmer, NHS medical director for specialised services, welcomed the ban but recognised it “will be a difficult time for young people and their families who are affected”, adding that targeted support through local mental health services was on offer. A third NHS children’s gender clinic for patients in England and Wales opened in Bristol in November, following in the footsteps of two hubs, led by London’s Great Ormond Street Hospital (Gosh) and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool, which opened in April. In total, up to eight new NHS children’s gender clinics – for children of any age – are due to open by 2026. These clinics have been set up following the closure of the Gender Identity Development Service, which had been run by the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, at the end of March. Meanwhile, Mr Streeting also revealed the latest waiting lists for children’s gender care have risen to more than 6,200, having stood at just over 5,700 at the end of May. He said: “As in common with all NHS waiting lists, I want to see those fall.” Anyone affected by the announcement can contact agem.cyp-gnrss@nhs.net or call 0300 131 6775 and select option 3. Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond. 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Two members of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's cabinet will be in Palm Beach, Fla., Friday to meet with members of Donald Trump's team. Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly and newly appointed Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc are making the trip south to further discussions with members of the future Trump administration, ahead of inauguration day on Jan. 20. "They look forward to continuing the discussions that took place when the Prime Minister met with President Trump at Mar-a-Lago last month," said Jean-Sébastien Comeau, director of communications for Minister LeBlanc, in a statement. The duo is also looking to build off a "positive call" the ministers had with Tom Homan, Trump's border czar, earlier this month. In an exclusive interview with CTV's Power Play host Vassy Kapelos on Dec. 19, Homan called border talks with Canada "positive." "The conversation I have in Canada, I couldn't ask for a better conversation," Homan said. "Of course, actions have to follow, but I'm very optimistic from the conversation I had that we're going to come up with a good border security plan." Trump has threatened to impose a 25 per cent tariff on all Canadian imports if the country doesn't take sufficient action to address the flow of illegal drugs and migrants over the shared border. Last week, the federal government laid out a five-pillared approach to boosting border security , but it didn't provide specifics about where and how $1.3 billion in funding earmarked in the fall economic statement will be allocated. Friday's trip to Palm Beach, Fla., will focus on what Canada has done so far to address Trump's border concerns. "The Ministers intend to focus on Canada's efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking and illegal migration and the measures outlined in Canada's Border Plan, as well as the negative impacts that the imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian goods would have on both Canada and the United States," Comeau said in his statement. The meetings also come amid repeated and ongoing online comments from Trump about Canada becoming "the 51st state" and the prime minister being its governor. "...To Governor Justin Trudeau of Canada, whose Citizens' Taxes are far too high, but if Canada was to become our 51st State, their Taxes would be cut by more than 60%, their businesses would immediately double in size, and they would be militarily protected like no other Country anywhere in the World," read in part a Christmas Day message posted by Trump on Truth Social, his own social media platform. The Prime Minister's Office has not directly addressed the repeated comments by Trump. With files from CTV News' Mike Le Couteur and Stephanie Ha MORE POLITICS NEWS India alleges widespread trafficking of international students through Canada to U.S. Nova Scotia premier tones down rhetoric toward Ottawa in end of year interview Canada condemns China's steps against Canadian institutions over Uyghurs, Tibet Trudeau could stay or go. Either way, Canadians should brace for a spring election What is flagpoling? A new ban on the practice is starting to take effect Parties agree on the need to act on online harms, but time is running out for new law Revised airline compensation rules will do little to change status quo: experts Green Party's Elizabeth May reflects on unprecedented week in Canadian politics IN DEPTH Jagmeet Singh pulls NDP out of deal with Trudeau Liberals, takes aim at Poilievre Conservatives NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has pulled his party out of the supply-and-confidence agreement that had been helping keep Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's minority Liberals in power. 'Not the result we wanted': Trudeau responds after surprise Conservative byelection win in Liberal stronghold Conservative candidate Don Stewart winning the closely-watched Toronto-St. Paul's federal byelection, and delivering a stunning upset to Justin Trudeau's candidate Leslie Church in the long-time Liberal riding, has sent political shockwaves through both parties. 'We will go with the majority': Liberals slammed by opposition over proposal to delay next election The federal Liberal government learned Friday it might have to retreat on a proposal within its electoral reform legislation to delay the next vote by one week, after all opposition parties came out to say they can't support it. Budget 2024 prioritizes housing while taxing highest earners, deficit projected at $39.8B In an effort to level the playing field for young people, in the 2024 federal budget, the government is targeting Canada's highest earners with new taxes in order to help offset billions in new spending to enhance the country's housing supply and social supports. 'One of the greatest': Former prime minister Brian Mulroney commemorated at state funeral Prominent Canadians, political leaders, and family members remembered former prime minister and Progressive Conservative titan Brian Mulroney as an ambitious and compassionate nation-builder at his state funeral on Saturday. Opinion opinion | Don Martin: Gusher of Liberal spending won't put out the fire in this dumpster A Hail Mary rehash of the greatest hits from the Trudeau government’s three-week travelling pony-show, the 2024 federal budget takes aim at reversing the party’s popularity plunge in the under-40 set, writes political columnist Don Martin. But will it work before the next election? opinion | Don Martin: The doctor Trudeau dumped has a prescription for better health care Political columnist Don Martin sat down with former federal health minister Jane Philpott, who's on a crusade to help fix Canada's broken health care system, and who declined to take any shots at the prime minister who dumped her from caucus. opinion | Don Martin: Trudeau's seeking shelter from the housing storm he helped create While Justin Trudeau's recent housing announcements are generally drawing praise from experts, political columnist Don Martin argues there shouldn’t be any standing ovations for a prime minister who helped caused the problem in the first place. opinion | Don Martin: Poilievre has the field to himself as he races across the country to big crowds It came to pass on Thursday evening that the confidentially predictable failure of the Official Opposition non-confidence motion went down with 204 Liberal, BQ and NDP nays to 116 Conservative yeas. But forcing Canada into a federal election campaign was never the point. opinion | Don Martin: How a beer break may have doomed the carbon tax hike When the Liberal government chopped a planned beer excise tax hike to two per cent from 4.5 per cent and froze future increases until after the next election, says political columnist Don Martin, it almost guaranteed a similar carbon tax move in the offing. CTVNews.ca Top Stories Ministers Joly, LeBlanc travel to Florida to meet with Trump's team Two members of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's cabinet will be in Palm Beach, Fla., Friday to meet with members of Donald Trump's team. India alleges widespread trafficking of international students through Canada to U.S. Indian law enforcement agencies say they are investigating alleged links between dozens of colleges in Canada and two 'entities' in Mumbai accused of illegally ferrying students across the Canada-United States border. Teen actor Hudson Meek, who appeared in 'Baby Driver,' dies after falling from moving vehicle Hudson Meek, the 16-year-old actor who appeared in 'Baby Driver,' died last week after falling from a moving vehicle in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, according to CNN affiliate WVTM. Aviation experts say Russia's air defence fire likely caused Azerbaijan plane crash as nation mourns Aviation experts said Thursday that Russian air defence fire was likely responsible for the Azerbaijani plane crash the day before that killed 38 people and left all 29 survivors injured. Police identify victim of Christmas Day homicide in Hintonburg, charge suspect The Ottawa Police Service says the victim who had been killed on Christmas Day in Hintonburg has been identified. Pizza deliverer in Florida charged with stabbing pregnant woman at motel after tip dispute A pizza deliverer in central Florida has been charged with pushing her way into a motel room with an accomplice and stabbing a pregnant woman after a dispute over a tip, authorities said. Unwanted gift card in your stocking? Don't let it go to waste Gift cards can be a quick and easy present for those who don't know what to buy and offer the recipient a chance to pick out something nice for themselves, but sometimes they can still miss the mark. Cat food that caused bird-flu death of Oregon pet was distributed in B.C.: officials Pet food contaminated with bird flu – which killed a house cat in Oregon – was distributed and sold in British Columbia, according to officials south of the border. Raised in Sask. after his family fled Hungary, this man spent decades spying on communists for the RCMP As a Communist Party member in Calgary in the early 1940s, Frank Hadesbeck performed clerical work at the party office, printed leaflets and sold books. Canada Laval police searching for missing teen girl, family fears for her safety Laval police (SPL) are asking for the public’s assistance in locating a missing 15-year-old girl, who was last seen on Christmas Eve. 2 minors, 2 adults critically injured in south Calgary crash; incident was preceded by a robbery Multiple people were rushed to hospital, including two minors, in the aftermath of a serious vehicle collision on Thursday morning. Ship remains stalled on St-Lawrence River north of Montreal A ship that lost power on the St. Lawrence River on Christmas Eve, remains stationary north of Montreal. Raised in Sask. after his family fled Hungary, this man spent decades spying on communists for the RCMP As a Communist Party member in Calgary in the early 1940s, Frank Hadesbeck performed clerical work at the party office, printed leaflets and sold books. Police identify victim of Christmas Day homicide in Hintonburg, charge suspect The Ottawa Police Service says the victim who had been killed on Christmas Day in Hintonburg has been identified. Boxing Day in Canada: Small retailers fear big shopping day won't make up for tough year It’s one of the busiest shopping days of the year: Boxing Day sees thousands of people head to malls and big box stores to find great deals. But it's not so simple for smaller shops. World An uneasy calm settles over Syrian city of Homs after outbreak of sectarian violence Syria's new security forces checked IDs and searched cars in the central city of Homs on Thursday, a day after protests by members of the Alawite minority erupted in gunfire and stirred fears that the country's fragile peace could break down. Israeli attorney general orders probe into report that alleged Netanyahu's wife harassed opponents Israel's attorney general has ordered police to open an investigation into Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's wife on suspicion of harassing political opponents and a witness in the Israeli leader's corruption trial. India's former prime minister Manmohan Singh, architect of economic reforms, dies at 92 India's former prime minister Manmohan Singh, widely regarded as the architect of India's economic reform program and a landmark nuclear deal with the United States, has died. He was 92. Pizza deliverer in Florida charged with stabbing pregnant woman at motel after tip dispute A pizza deliverer in central Florida has been charged with pushing her way into a motel room with an accomplice and stabbing a pregnant woman after a dispute over a tip, authorities said. Russia arrests 4 suspects accused of plotting to kill top military officers on Ukraine's orders Russia's top security agency said Thursday that it has arrested several suspects accused of involvement in an alleged Ukrainian plot to assassinate senior military officers, an announcement that follows the killing of a top Russian general last week. Sinkhole prompts lane closures on Interstate 80 in New Jersey A sinkhole that opened up Thursday along Interstate 80 in northern New Jersey forced authorities to close the heavily travelled highway's eastbound lanes. Politics India alleges widespread trafficking of international students through Canada to U.S. Indian law enforcement agencies say they are investigating alleged links between dozens of colleges in Canada and two 'entities' in Mumbai accused of illegally ferrying students across the Canada-United States border. Nova Scotia premier tones down rhetoric toward Ottawa in end of year interview On the heels of a resounding election victory one month ago, Nova Scotia's premier is adopting a more measured tone when it comes to assessing his province's relationship with the federal government. Canada condemns China's steps against Canadian institutions over Uyghurs, Tibet The Canadian government condemned China on Tuesday for taking steps against two Canadian institutions and 20 people involved in human rights issues concerning the Uyghurs and Tibet. Health Dr. Theresa Tam shares her top health concerns for Canada in 2025 As we enter 2025, Dr. Theresa Tam has her eye on H5N1 bird flu, an emerging virus that had its first human case in Canada this year. Cat food that caused bird-flu death of Oregon pet was distributed in B.C.: officials Pet food contaminated with bird flu – which killed a house cat in Oregon – was distributed and sold in British Columbia, according to officials south of the border. Plush toys recalled in Canada due to choking hazard Health Canada announced a recall on a series of plush toys due to a choking hazard. Anyone who has purchased an elephant, giraffe, lion, tiger and/or panda plush toy with an attached baby can return them to the place of purchase for a refund. Sci-Tech Historical mysteries solved by science in 2024 This year, scientists were able to pull back the curtain on mysteries surrounding figures across history, both known and unknown, to reveal more about their unique stories. AI is a game changer for students with disabilities. Schools are still learning to harness it Getting the latest technology into the hands of students with disabilities is a priority for the U.S. Education Department, which has told schools they must consider whether students need tools like text-to-speech and alternative communication devices. Your kid is spending too much time on their phone. Here's what to do about it Wondering what your teen is up to when you're not around? They are likely on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram or Snapchat, according to a new report. Entertainment Bad Bunny announces a new album, 'Debi Tirar Mas Fotos' Happy holidays from Bad Bunny, who announced Thursday he will release a new album Jan. 5. 'Wicked' will make its streaming debut on New Year’s Eve, with deleted and extended scenes Universal Pictures, the studio behind the hit film, announced on Thursday that “Wicked” will be available to buy or rent on December 31 on digital streaming platforms including Prime Video and Apple TV. Teen actor Hudson Meek, who appeared in 'Baby Driver,' dies after falling from moving vehicle Hudson Meek, the 16-year-old actor who appeared in 'Baby Driver,' died last week after falling from a moving vehicle in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, according to CNN affiliate WVTM. Business Unwanted gift card in your stocking? Don't let it go to waste Gift cards can be a quick and easy present for those who don't know what to buy and offer the recipient a chance to pick out something nice for themselves, but sometimes they can still miss the mark. OPP shut down Hwy. 401 off-ramp clogged with Boxing Day deal-hunters A Highway 401 off-ramp west of Toronto became so clogged up with Boxing Day deal-hunters Thursday that police had to shut it down. Boxing Day in Canada: Small retailers fear big shopping day won't make up for tough year It’s one of the busiest shopping days of the year: Boxing Day sees thousands of people head to malls and big box stores to find great deals. But it's not so simple for smaller shops. Lifestyle Spending the holiday season alone this year? How to make the most of it Spending the holidays alone can feel lonely or empty, but it doesn't have to be that way. Working Well: Returning to the office can disrupt life. Here are some tips to navigate the changes Heading into 2025, thousands of workers face an unsettling reality: after years of working from the comfort of home, they must return to the office full-time for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic or look for new work. Your kid is spending too much time on their phone. Here's what to do about it Wondering what your teen is up to when you're not around? They are likely on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram or Snapchat, according to a new report. Sports World Junior Championship to create a buzz in Ottawa this Boxing Day A Canadian hockey holiday tradition returns to the capital this Boxing Day, as the 2025 World Junior Championship is set to create a buzz in the city. Swimmer Summer McIntosh voted The Canadian Press female athlete of the year for 2024 During the month before her 18th birthday, Summer McIntosh became the first Canadian to win three gold medals in a single Olympic Games, winter or summer, with a silver medal thrown in for good measure. Stephen Curry says 'end is near' for career NBA great Stephen Curry said he is appreciating his 16th season, knowing he is closing in on the end of his record-setting career. Autos More drivers opt for personalized plates in Sask. — and behind every one there's a story You may have noticed a few more vanity plates on Saskatchewan roads in recent years, and every one of them comes with a personal story. Nissan and Honda to attempt a merger that would create the world's No. 3 automaker Japanese automakers Honda and Nissan have announced plans to work toward a merger that would form the world's third-largest automaker by sales, as the industry undergoes dramatic changes in its transition away from fossil fuels. Ford Motor donates US$1 million and fleet of vehicles to Trump's inauguration Ford Motor Co F.N is donating US$1 million and a fleet of vehicles to U.S. president-elect Donald Trump's January inauguration, a company spokesperson said on Monday. Local Spotlight Ho! Ho! HOLY that's cold! Montreal boogie boarder in Santa suit hits St. Lawrence waters Montreal body surfer Carlos Hebert-Plante boogie boards all year round, and donned a Santa Claus suit to hit the water on Christmas Day in -14 degree Celsius weather. Teen cancer patient pays forward Make-A-Wish donation to local fire department A 16-year-old cancer patient from Hemmingford, Que. decided to donate his Make-A-Wish Foundation gift to the local fire department rather than use it himself. B.C. friends nab 'unbelievable' $1M lotto win just before Christmas Two friends from B.C's lower mainland are feeling particularly merry this December, after a single lottery ticket purchased from a small kiosk landed them instant millionaire status. 'Can I taste it?': Rare $55,000 bottle of spirits for sale in Moncton, N.B. A rare bottle of Scotch whisky is for sale in downtown Moncton, N.B., with a price tag reading $55,000. No need to dream, White Christmas all but assured in the Maritimes An early nor'easter followed by a low-pressure system moving into the region all but ensure a Maritime White Christmas 'I'm still thinking pinch me': lost puppy reunited with family after five years After almost five years of searching and never giving up hope, the Tuffin family received the best Christmas gift they could have hoped for: being reunited with their long-lost puppy. Big splash: Halifax mermaid waves goodbye after 16 years Halifax's Raina the Mermaid is closing her business after 16 years in the Maritimes. Willistead Manor celebrates the Christmas season in style, with only two weekends left to visit From the Great Hall to the staircase and landings, to the conservatory – hundreds of people have toured the Willistead Manor this December. Music maker, 88, creates unique horn section, with moose antler bass guitar and cello Eighty-eight-year-old Lorne Collie has been making musical instruments for more than three decades, creations that dazzle for their unique materials as much as their sound. Vancouver 1 airlifted, highway closed after crash in Mission Lougheed Highway is closed in Mission, B.C., after a car crash Thursday morning that seriously injured at least one person, Mounties say. These were the most-borrowed books from Vancouver libraries in 2024 What have Vancouverites been reading in 2024? The Vancouver Public Library has released its lineup of the books that kept flying off the shelf this year, which can serve as inspiration for bookworms’ 2025 reading lists. Cat food that caused bird-flu death of Oregon pet was distributed in B.C.: officials Pet food contaminated with bird flu – which killed a house cat in Oregon – was distributed and sold in British Columbia, according to officials south of the border. Toronto OPP shut down Hwy. 401 off-ramp clogged with Boxing Day deal-hunters A Highway 401 off-ramp west of Toronto became so clogged up with Boxing Day deal-hunters Thursday that police had to shut it down. Pedestrian seriously injured after being struck by driver of vehicle in North York A pedestrian has been seriously injured after being hit by the driver of a vehicle in North York late Thursday afternoon. Man wanted for 2 unprovoked incidents in downtown Toronto on Christmas Eve Toronto police are searching for a suspect who allegedly choked a female in downtown Toronto then threatened an employee at a business with a hammer. Calgary 2 minors, 2 adults critically injured in south Calgary crash; incident was preceded by a robbery Multiple people were rushed to hospital, including two minors, in the aftermath of a serious vehicle collision on Thursday morning. Boxing Day draws deal-seekers, but maybe fewer than in times past Calgarians hoping to save some money—or get that last gift they missed out on for Christmas—headed to the store for Boxing Day. Boxing Day in Canada: Small retailers fear big shopping day won't make up for tough year It’s one of the busiest shopping days of the year: Boxing Day sees thousands of people head to malls and big box stores to find great deals. But it's not so simple for smaller shops. Ottawa Police identify victim of Christmas Day homicide in Hintonburg, charge suspect The Ottawa Police Service says the victim who had been killed on Christmas Day in Hintonburg has been identified. World Junior Championship to create a buzz in Ottawa this Boxing Day A Canadian hockey holiday tradition returns to the capital this Boxing Day, as the 2025 World Junior Championship is set to create a buzz in the city. What's open and closed in Ottawa over the holidays CTVNewsOttawa.ca takes a look at what's open and closed over the Christmas and New Year's holidays this year. Montreal WEATHER | Smog warning in effect in Montreal, Laval Residents of Montreal, Laval and other regions are advised that a smog warning is in effect. Quebec teenager gives his Make-A-Wish donation to his community When the Make-A-Wish Foundation offered Gerry McAdam anything he wanted he didn't know what to do. The 16-year-old from Hemmingford, Quebec is battling sarcoma, a rare form of tissue cancer. A very different Boxing Day from previous years In a markedly different economic context than last year, with fiercer and more unfair international competition than ever and less than two weeks after the end of the Canada Post strike, this year’s Boxing Day sales are set to be different from those in previous years, says the Quebec Retail Council (CQCD). Edmonton These are the scams that affected Albertans the most in 2024 CTV News Edmonton looks at the scams that affected Albertans the most in 2024, and how you can protect yourself. Alberta premier hopes for health reform payoff in 2025, regrets deferring tax cut "It may have been better for Albertans if we'd implemented and then found a way to be able to pay for it." Aviation experts say Russia's air defence fire likely caused Azerbaijan plane crash as nation mourns Aviation experts said Thursday that Russian air defence fire was likely responsible for the Azerbaijani plane crash the day before that killed 38 people and left all 29 survivors injured. Atlantic Christmas Day fire causes heavy damage to building in Saint John, N.B. A fire caused a power outage for around 900 residents of Saint John, N.B., Wednesday afternoon. Civil War sword with N.B. ties now on display at Loyalist House The blade of Dr. John F. Stevenson, who was born in Saint Andrews, N.B., is now part of the New Brunswick Historical Society’s collection after being purchased from a collector for $6,200 dollars. Temporary overnight parking ban for Saint John, N.B. Saint John, N.B., has declared an overnight parking ban for the South/Central Peninsula beginning 11 p.m. Thursday evening through 7 a.m. Friday morning. Winnipeg 16-year-old boy found with machete: Police A 16-year-old boy is in custody after police said they found him with a machete. Boxing Day in Canada: Small retailers fear big shopping day won't make up for tough year It’s one of the busiest shopping days of the year: Boxing Day sees thousands of people head to malls and big box stores to find great deals. But it's not so simple for smaller shops. Have you seen Davis? Winnipeg police search for missing man Winnipeg police are asking the public to help find a man who went missing last week. Regina Yorkton RCMP seek tips to locate unlawfully-at-large inmate Yorkton RCMP is seeking tips from the public to locate an inmate after staff noticed he was not present at the Whitespruce Provincial Training Centre. Pedestrian collision sends man to hospital with life-threatening injuries One man has been sent to hospital with life-threatening injuries after he was struck by a vehicle in the early hours of Wednesday in Regina. Raised in Sask. after his family fled Hungary, this man spent decades spying on communists for the RCMP As a Communist Party member in Calgary in the early 1940s, Frank Hadesbeck performed clerical work at the party office, printed leaflets and sold books. Kitchener Fire rips through former Peter Hay Knife Company building in Cambridge Emergency responders were called to a fire in Cambridge on Thursday as flames ripped through the building that formerly belonged to the Peter Hay Knife Company. Sawed-off shotgun and three knives seized during Cambridge arrest Two people from Thunder Bay are facing drug trafficking and weapons charges after they were arrested in Cambridge. Baden-born player, Guelph Storm forward and former Kitchener Ranger prepare to hit the ice at World Juniors Waterloo Region and Guelph will be well represented as the International Ice Hockey Federation World Juniors gets underway. Saskatoon Raised in Sask. after his family fled Hungary, this man spent decades spying on communists for the RCMP As a Communist Party member in Calgary in the early 1940s, Frank Hadesbeck performed clerical work at the party office, printed leaflets and sold books. IN PICTURES: CTV Saskatoon viewers send us their holiday photos A living gallery of viewer-submitted photos from the holiday season. Share your pictures with us at SaskatoonNews@bellmedia.ca Sask. highway closed following serious collision The Saskatchewan RCMP are investigating a serious collision on Highway 7, approximately 15 kilometres west of Rosetown. Northern Ontario Drug trade fuelling increase in gun crime in Timmins, police say Police in Timmins say gun crime is increasing in the city because of the drug trade, especially involving opioids. Freezing drizzle advisory in effect for Greater Sudbury Environment Canada issued a freezing drizzle advisory Thursday for areas in and around Greater Sudbury. Average home sale prices in the Sault set new record last month Homes sales edged upward in many markets in northern Ontario last month, including Sault Ste. Marie, where average sale prices set a new record. London Palace Theatre boarded up over the holidays due to recent damage A break in, theft, and continued property damage has led to the boarding up of the Palace Theatre over the Christmas holidays. Knights stars ready to help Canada chase gold at World Juniors Three London Knights are on the roster, including Easton Cowan, who scored a hat-trick in Canada’s first exhibition game. London fire responds to Wellington Road collision, contains fuel leak London Fire Department was on the scene of a two vehicle collision involving a delivery truck on Tuesday morning. Barrie Police in Barrie searching for two missing individuals Police in Barrie are searching for two individuals who were both reported missing on Thursday. Teen allegedly attempting to avoid R.I.D.E. program leads to police chase, arrest A teenage driver is facing numerous charges after reportedly attempting to avoid a R.I.D.E. program and flee from police in Essa Township late Christmas night. Christmas Day break and enter under investigation Police are searching for those who were involved in an alleged break and enter at a Gravenhurst business on Christmas Day. Windsor Mother-daughter duo pursuing university dreams at the same time For one University of Windsor student, what is typically a chance to gain independence from her parents has become a chance to spend more time with her biggest cheerleader — her mom. VIDEO | From a repaired stuffed animal to an ATV, shoppers reveal the best gift they have ever received We asked people of all ages getting in some last-minute Christmas Eve shopping inside Windsor’s Devonshire Mall to talk about the best present they've ever received — and their answers might just warm your heart this holiday season. 'We may have to look at other sensible locations': Where will Windsor’s new H4 be located? The search for a site to house Windsor’s new Homelessness and Housing Help Hub (H4) is back underway after the city scrapped plans at 700 Wellington Avenue on Monday. Vancouver Island Multiple sailing waits for BC Ferries after further cancellations BC Ferries cancelled multiple early morning sailings between the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island Thursday morning, as weather warnings due to wind and heavy rain remain in effect. Avalanche risk 'extreme' for parts of B.C. coast The avalanche danger rating for mountains on B.C.’s South Coast was “extreme” on Boxing Day, according to Canada’s non-profit forecaster. Cat food that caused bird-flu death of Oregon pet was distributed in B.C.: officials Pet food contaminated with bird flu – which killed a house cat in Oregon – was distributed and sold in British Columbia, according to officials south of the border. Kelowna Forfeited Hells Angels clubhouse in Kelowna, B.C., sold to the city A former Hells Angels clubhouse that was seized by the British Columbia government in 2023 after years of fighting in court has been sold to the City of Kelowna. Death of woman found in Kelowna's Waterfront Park in June deemed 'non-criminal in nature': RCMP Police in Kelowna say a death they began investigating back in June has now been confirmed as "non-criminal in nature." B.C. man sentenced for 'execution-style' murder of bystander in drug trade conflict A B.C. man convicted of the "intentional and ruthless killing of a bystander" while acting as an enforcer in the drug trade has been sentenced for a second time in the slaying. Lethbridge Lake Louise ice climber takes a scary fall, then carries on climbing ice The sport of ice climbing is becoming more and more popular, but one man is lucky to be alive after a serious fall in Alberta’s back country. Safety tips for holiday home cooks: Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services If you’re planning to cook over the holidays, Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services is reminding everyone to do it safely. Here’s which bins your Christmas wrapping, ribbons and leftovers should go into With piles of presents unwrapped Wednesday, Environment Lethbridge is reminding everyone to dispose of all that waste properly. Sault Ste. Marie Average home sale prices in the Sault set new record last month Homes sales edged upward in many markets in northern Ontario last month, including Sault Ste. Marie, where average sale prices set a new record. Sault shopper caught with stolen credit cards A Sault man’s illegal shopping spree came to an abrupt end over the weekend. Ontario First Nation challenging selection of underground nuclear waste site in court A First Nation in northern Ontario is challenging the selection of a nearby region as the site of a deep geological repository that will hold Canada's nuclear waste, arguing in a court filing that it should have had a say in the matter as the site falls "squarely" within its territory. N.L. Her son needed help with addiction. Instead, he's spending Christmas in N.L. jail. As Gwen Perry prepares for a Christmas without contact from her son, who is locked inside a notorious St. John's, N.L., jail, she wants people to understand that many inmates need help, not incarceration. A massive, menacing Steller's sea eagle is dazzling birders in a Newfoundland park A national park in Newfoundland has made the unusual move of opening in the winter so people can catch a glimpse of its rare and menacing new guest. Newfoundland woman washed sick patients' hair every Saturday for more than 20 years A retired nurse and teacher in Newfoundland was honoured this week for her volunteer work, which included more than two decades washing the hair of bedridden hospital patients. Stay Connected
Jamaat not in favour of banning AL
Last week, UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was shot to death on a New York City sidewalk in what was clearly a thoroughly planned-out attack. Over the next few days, as authorities hunted for the killer, online progressives did not try hard to hide their delight that a millionaire health insurance executive like Thompson was killed. Social media was flooded with posts and videos—with different ranges of subtlety—suggesting that Thompson, at the very least, did not deserve to be mourned because of all the health care his company has denied to poor and working people. Progressives framed the shooting as an act of self-defense on behalf of the working class. Before the alleged killer was caught Monday, they promised not to snitch if they saw the shooter themselves and fantasized about a working-class jury nullifying all charges, leading to other CEOs getting gunned down with impunity if they oversaw price increases. The narrative that these online progressives clearly subscribe to and perpetuate is one where, in the United States, healthcare is a totally unfettered, unregulated industry; where—because of a total lack of government involvement—wealthy CEOs charge whatever prices they want and then refuse to provide customers what they already paid for without facing any bad consequences. The characterization of healthcare and health insurance companies charging absurdly high prices while treating their customers terribly without the risk of losing them is spot on. But the idea that what caused this was a lack of government involvement in the healthcare system is completely delusional. And this delusion conveniently removes all the responsibility progressives bear for the nightmare that is the US healthcare system. Today, healthcare is one of the most heavily government-regulated industries in the economy—right up there with the finance and energy sectors. Government agencies are involved in all parts of the process, from the research and production of drugs, the training and licensing of medical professionals, and the building of hospitals to the availability of health insurance, the makeup of insurance plans, and the complicated payment processes. And that is nothing new. The US government has been intervening heavily in the healthcare industry for over a century. And no group has done more to bring this about than the progressives. It really began, after all, during the Progressive Era, when the American Medical Association maneuvered its way into setting the official accreditation standards for the nation’s “unregulated” medical schools. The AMA wrote standards that excluded the medical approaches of their competitors, which forced half of the nation’s medical schools to close. The new shortage of trained doctors drove up the price of medical services—to the delight of the AMA and other government-recognized doctor’s groups—setting the familiar healthcare affordability crisis in motion. Around the same time, progressives successfully pushed for strict restrictions on the production of drugs and, shortly afterward, to grant drug producers monopoly privileges. After WWII, as healthcare grew more expensive, the government used the tax code to warp how Americans paid for healthcare. Under President Truman, the IRS made employer-provided health insurance tax deductible while continuing to tax other means of payment. It didn’t take long for employer plans to become the dominant arrangement and for health insurance to morph away from actual insurance into a general third-party payment system. These government interventions restricting the supply of medical care and privileging insurance over other payment methods created a real affordability problem for many Americans. But the crisis didn’t really start until the 1960s when Congress passed two of the progressive’s favorite government programs—Medicare and Medicaid. Initially, industry groups like the AMA opposed Medicare and Medicaid because they believed the government subsidies would deteriorate the quality of care. They were right about that, but what they clearly didn’t anticipate was how rich the programs would make them. Anyone who’s taken even a single introductory economics class could tell you that prices will rise if supply decreases or demand increases. The government was already keeping the supply of medical services artificially low—leading to artificially high prices. Medicare and Medicaid left those shortages in place and poured a ton of tax dollars into the healthcare sector—significantly increasing demand. The result was an easily predictable explosion in the cost of healthcare. Fewer and fewer people could afford healthcare at these rising prices, meaning more people required government assistance, which meant more demand, causing prices to grow faster and faster. Meanwhile, private health “insurance” providers were also benefiting from the mounting crisis. In a free market, insurance serves as a means to trade risk. Insurance works well for accidents and calamities that are hard to predict individually but relatively easy to predict in bulk, like car accidents, house fires, and unexpected family deaths. Health insurance providers were already being subsidized by all the taxes on competing means of payment, which allowed their plans to grow beyond the typical bounds of insurance and begin to cover easily-predictable occurrences like annual physicals. And, as the price of all of these services continued to shoot up, the costs of these routine procedures were becoming high enough to resemble the costs of emergencies—making consumers even more reliant on insurance. With progressives cheering on, the political class used government intervention to create a healthcare system that behaves as if its sole purpose is to move as much money as possible into the pockets of healthcare providers, drug companies, hospitals, health-related federal agencies, and insurance providers. But the party could not last forever. As the price of healthcare rose, the price of health insurance rose, too. Eventually, when insurance premiums grew too high, fewer employers or individual buyers were willing to buy insurance, and the flow of money into the healthcare system started to falter. The data suggests that that tipping point was reached in the early 2000s. For the first time since the cycle began back in the 1960s, the number of people with health insurance began to fall each year. Healthcare providers—who had seemingly assumed that the flow of money would never stop increasing—began to panic. Then came Barack Obama. Obama’s seminal legislative accomplishment—the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare—can best be understood as a ploy by healthcare providers and the government to keep the party going. Obamacare required all fifty million uninsured Americans to obtain insurance, and it greatly expanded what these “insurance” companies covered. Demand for healthcare shot back up, and the vicious cycle started back up again—which is why the bill enjoyed so much support from big corporations all across the healthcare industry. Before it was passed, economists were practically screaming that the Affordable Care Act would make care less affordable by raising premiums and healthcare prices while making shortages worse. Progressives dismissed such concerns as Reagan-era “free market fundamentalist” propaganda. But that is exactly what happened . Now, the affordability crisis is worse than ever as prices reach historic levels. And, because Obamacare brought American healthcare much closer to a single-payer system, the demand for healthcare far exceeds the supply of healthcare—leading to deadly shortages. There are literally not enough resources or available medical professionals to treat everyone who can pay for care. Also, the tax code and warped “insurance” market protect these providers from competition—making it almost impossible for people to switch to a different provider after their claims are unfairly denied. If it were simply greed, denying customers who already paid would be a feature in all industries. But it’s not. It requires the kind of policy protections progressives helped implement. And on top of all that, despite paying all this money, Americans are quickly becoming one of the sickest populations on Earth. This is one of the most pressing problems facing the country. A problem that requires immediate, radical change to solve. But it also requires an accurate and precise diagnosis—something that, this week, progressives demonstrated they are incapable of making. Related Articles Commentary | After so many years of failure, time’s up for California Democrats Commentary | Vince Fong: We don’t need Newsom to lecture us. We need him to listen to us. Commentary | Deregulation rather than fossil fuel controls needed to fix California insurance market Commentary | The FBI has been political from the start Commentary | A new Legislative session: Time for pocketbook pragmatism The American progressive movement is responsible for providing the political class the intellectual cover they needed to break the healthcare market and transform the entire system into a means to transfer wealth to people like Brian Thompson. Now, they want to sit back, pretend like they’ve never gotten their way, that the government has never done anything with the healthcare market, and that these healthcare executives just popped up and started doing this all on their own—all so they can celebrate him being gunned down in the street. It’s disgusting. Brian Thompson acted exactly like every economically literate person over the last fifty years has said health insurance CEOs would act if progressives got their way. If we’re ever going to see the end of this century-long nightmare, we need to start listening to the people who have gotten it right, not those who pretend they are blameless as they fantasize online about others starting a violent revolution. Connor O’Keeffe ( @ConnorMOKeeffe ) produces media and content at the Mises Institute. This commentary is republished with permission from the Mises Institute.
If you are operating under standard fantasy league rules, the fantasy playoffs are just two weeks away and the trade deadline is just a few days away. If you're a team on the bubble, you need to make a move to push yourself into the postseason. However, making trades with your league mates can be a headache. Everyone wants way more than their players are worth. They don't want to get better in a trade. They just don't want you to get better. If that sounds like your league mates, maybe you'd prefer the waiver wire. While the upside of the waivers isn't as high, they are much less likely to give you a brain aneurysm. Here are eight players to consider adding from waivers ahead of Week 13: NFL News: NFL flexes Thursday night game for first time, tabs Chargers and Broncos to play in Week 16 Fantasy players to add in Week 13 *All roster numbers are via Yahoo NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more. WR Noah Brown , Washington Commanders (Rostered in 10% of leagues) Although Terry McLaurin is going to dominate headlines after his last-second 86-yard touchdown, Noah Brown has quietly earned nearly as many targets as McLaurin recently. In the past seven games, Brown has earned 42 targets. McLaurin has seen only 38. Brown appears to have earned a lot of trust from quarterback Jayden Daniels, and the Commanders will need to lean on their passing game after their tough loss to Dallas. RB Jaylen Warren , Pittsburgh Steelers (Rostered in 59% of leagues) It's been the case for a while, but Jaylen Warren, when healthy, is more efficient than Najee Harris. Warren earned five fewer carries than Harris against Cleveland, but outgained him, received more targets, and found the end zone. As the Pittsburgh Steelers fight for the top spot in their division, Warren could continue seeing his usage increase. The Steelers face a lackluster Cincinnati defense in Week 13, meaning Warren could be in for big production coming off a few extra days of rest. TE Zach Ertz , Washington Commanders (Rostered in 48% of leagues) Over his last seven games with the Commanders, Ertz has tallied at least 10 PPR points in five of them. He's earned at least seven targets in four of his last five as well. While Ertz has produced some duds throughout the season, with three games with under six PPR points, he provides a level of consistency that has been hard to come by at the tight end position this year. He's definitely worth an add. QB Drake Maye , New England Patriots (Rostered in 19% of leagues) Patriots rookie Drake Maye may not be winning many games, but he's certainly winning fantasy managers games this season. Since taking over as the starter for New England, he has yet to score fewer than 10 fantasy points in any game. That high a floor is spectacular for anyone who needs a fill-in during bye weeks. The only issue? Maye's bye week comes in Week 14. TE Austin Hooper , New England Patriots (Rostered in
Trump vows to pursue executions after Biden commutes most of federal death rowDon’t expect Denis Villeneuve to take a call while making Dune Messiah , and not because the signal is weak on Arrakis. The 3x Oscar nominee recently revealed that phones are “absolutely” banned from his sets as they’re “addictive,” noting that he’s “very tempted to disconnect myself” from screens altogether as well. “Cinema is an act of presence. When a painter paints, he has to be absolutely focused on the color he’s putting on the canvas. It’s the same with the dancer when he does a gesture,” he explained to the Los Angeles Times . “With a filmmaker, you have to do that with a crew, and everybody has to focus and be entirely in the present, listening to each other, being in relationship with each other. So cellphones are banned on my set too, since Day 1. It’s forbidden. When you say cut, you don’t want someone going to his phone to look at his Facebook account.” Explaining his own relationship to technology, Villeneuve said, “I’m like anybody. There’s something addictive about the fact that you can access any information, any song, any book. It’s compulsive. It’s like a drug. I’m very tempted to disconnect myself. It would be fresh air.” After David Lynch adapted Frank Herbert’s Dune for his 1984 space opera, Villeneuve returned to the source material for his adaptation Dune (2021) and this year’s Dune: Part Two . The first film took home six Oscars, with both movies earning a combined $1.12 billion globally. The franchise has spawned the prequel series Dune: Prophecy , which recently debuted, with new episodes airing Sundays at 9pm ET/PT on HBO and streaming on Max. Villeneuve told Deadline last month that he plans to start filming the film franchise’s third installment, based on Herbert’s ’69 novel Dune Messiah , in late 2025 or 2026.
Netflix will have one of its biggest days Wednesday since the site launched in 1998 when it airs two NFL games for the first time. “NFL Christmas Gameday on Netflix” begins with a two-hour pregame show at 11 a.m., before Pittsburgh hosts Kansas City. Baltimore faces Houston in the second game. The streaming giant agreed to a three-year contract in May to carry Christmas Day games. Netflix’s 282.3 million subscribers in over 190 countries will be able to stream the games, marking the first time one outlet has distributed an NFL game globally. Netflix will have the games available in five languages — English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and German. The games will also air on CBS affiliates in Kansas City, Pittsburgh, Baltimore and Houston. NFL policy dictates that games on cable or being exclusively streamed must also be on an over-the-air station in the competing teams’ markets. It will also be available on mobile devices in the U.S. for those who have NFL+. The biggest reason is money. The league is getting $150 million from Netflix for the two games this season. It also continues the NFL’s moves into streaming — Thursday night games are in their third season on Amazon Prime Video and the “Sunday Ticket” package moved to YouTube TV last year. That’s true, but the league wasn’t about to give up Christmas after seeing the ratings. Last year’s three games averaged 28.68 million viewers. The early afternoon contest between the Las Vegas Raiders and Chiefs led the way, averaging 29.48 million. The Chiefs, Steelers, Ravens and Texans played on Saturday, giving them the same turnaround they would have if they played on Sunday and then Thursday. All four have clinched playoff spots in the AFC, but seeding remains up for grabs. Kansas City (14-1) can clinch the top seed — which would mean a first-round bye and home field throughout the playoffs — with a win over the Steelers. Pittsburgh and Baltimore are tied atop the AFC North at 10-5, with the Steelers holding the tiebreaker due to a better conference record. Houston (9-6) has wrapped up the AFC South and holds the fourth seed. Netflix hopes so. Brandon Riegg, Netflix’s vice president of nonfiction series and sports, said the system was stress tested, and then some, during the Nov. 14 bout, along with internet service providers reporting they were also overwhelmed by the surge that occurred before and during the fight. The bout peaked at 65 million concurrent streams, including 38 million concurrent streams in the United States. According to the website Down Detector, nearly 85,000 viewers logged problems with outages or streaming leading up to and during the fight. Possible? Yes. Likely? No. The largest audience for a streamed-exclusive NFL game was 23 million on Peacock for last season’s AFC wild-card game between the Miami Dolphins and Chiefs. Nielsen will measure the ratings for the Christmas Day games, with early numbers expected late afternoon on Thursday. It will probably beat kickoff for both games, but especially around 5:45 p.m. EST. That would be near halftime of the Ravens-Texans game, and when Beyoncé will be performing. Mariah Carey will kick off the day with a taped performance of “All I Want for Christmas is You.” There is no word if Taylor Swift will make the trip to Pittsburgh to watch her boyfriend, Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. Swift has been spending time in Kansas City since she wrapped up her Eras Tour two weeks ago. The NFL will have at least two games on Dec. 25 in 2025 and ’26, with Netflix slated to have at least one each year. Amazon Prime Video will have a night game with Christmas on a Thursday next year. Netflix’s worldwide partnership with World Wrestling Entertainment will begin on Jan. 6 when “Monday Night Raw” moves to the streaming service. On Friday, Netflix secured the U.S. rights for the 2027 and 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
Seongnam City to Participate in CES 2025, Paving the Way as a Global Innovation Hub
China launches amphibious assault ship that can launch fighter jets
The Nepal Police is investigating numerous cases, raising significant concerns about the integrity and accountability of lawmakers entrusted with the responsibilities of legislation and governance. According to the Nepal Police database, 37 people’s representatives are in custody for further investigation into their alleged involvement in various crimes. These individuals include two federal parliament members, one provincial minister, one mayor, one rural municipality chairperson, one vice-chairperson, and several ward chairpersons. Many are allegedly involved in cooperative scams. Additionally, three face charges of attempted murder, one for abduction, two for acts of discrimination, and one for child sexual abuse. MPs Under Police Investigation and in Custody Several Members of Parliament (MPs), responsible for making laws, are currently in police custody for violating the law, while some are still under investigation. For example, Deepak Manange, an MP from the Gandaki Provincial Assembly, is in jail following a Supreme Court verdict that found him guilty of attempting to murder Milan Gurung. Investigations into cooperative scams are ongoing against Rabi Lamichhane, President of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, following a recommendation by the Parliamentary Committee. Additionally, an investigation into money laundering is underway. Meanwhile, Congress MP Dhanraj Gurung was interrogated by a team from the Central Bureau of Investigation regarding the Miteri Cooperative scam for five hours on November 13. An investigation into Rastriya Prajatantra Party MP Geeta Basnet regarding the cooperative scam is also ongoing, with a case registered against her in Nawalparasi. MP Top Bahadur Rayamajhi has been remanded to custody for trial in connection with the fake Bhutanese refugee case and was suspended from his position as an MP after being remanded. Recently, following the recommendation for an investigation into money laundering against Rabi Lamichhane, discussions have arisen regarding whether he will be suspended from his position as an MP. Parliamentarians from the Rastriya Swatantra Party have urged Speaker Devraj Ghimire not to suspend him. On Monday, Rastriya Swatantra Party MPs Santosh Pariyar, Sobita Gautam, and Ganesh Parajuli met Speaker Ghimire at Singha Durbar and requested him not to suspend Lamichhane, citing the precedent of MP Tek Bahadur Gurung. "We have requested the Speaker not to suspend him, providing the precedent of MP Tek Bahadur Gurung," said Ganesh Parajuli. The Speaker informed them that he is seeking legal consultation on the matter. What Was the Case of MP Tek Bahadur Gurung? Gurung was elected as a Member of Parliament from Manang in the general election held on December 4 last year. At the time of his candidacy, a corruption case was already under consideration against him. During his tenure as the State Minister for Labour and Employment, Gurung faced allegations of corruption related to renting land at Kathmandu Funpark, which led to a case being filed against him at the Special Court. Following a letter from the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA), Gurung was suspended by the Parliament Secretariat on December 12, 2022. In the case, the Special Court found him guilty and imposed a fine of NPR 1,21,84,000. After the verdict, Gurung filed a petition with the Supreme Court seeking the revocation of his suspension. The Supreme Court, while hearing his case, determined that the letter from the CIAA and the subsequent suspension notice issued by the Parliament Secretariat were flawed. Consequently, the Supreme Court overturned the suspension through an order of remand. What Are the Provisions of the Money Laundering Act and Parliamentary Regulation? Section 27 of the Money Laundering (Prevention) Act states: “A person holding any position in an organized institution established under prevailing law, or a government employee, or any public servant, shall be considered suspended during the period of detention under this Act, and until the completion of the case filed under Section 22, such person will remain suspended.” This section mentions automatic suspension, which applies to MPs as well, meaning it does not require a letter from the police or notice from the Speaker. However, parliamentary regulations provide a slightly different arrangement. According to Section 248(3), suspension does not occur automatically upon the filing of a case. Suspension only takes effect when an MP is detained and remanded for trial. In accordance with parliamentary regulations, UML MP Top Bahadur Rayamajhi, who was arrested in the Fake Bhutanese refugee case, was suspended by the Speaker only after the court remanded him to custody for trial. Constitutional expert Bhimarjun Acharya stated that in the case of an MP's suspension, the provisions outlined in the Regulation of the Federal Parliament must be followed. "The suspension procedure mentioned in the Money Laundering Prevention Act will not be applicable to parliamentarians. Parliamentarians will be suspended following the provisions in the Regulation of the Federal Parliament," he said. In Lamichhane's case, the court's decision will be crucial. If the court decides to remand him for trial in custody, he will be suspended as an MP. If the investigation proceeds with bail, the question remains whether he will be permitted to continue functioning as an MP.
Johnson Lukaza Unveils Brand New Personal Website to Inspire Innovation and Leadership 12-24-2024 09:32 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: Getnews / PR Agency: Erase Technologies, LLC Image: https://www.globalnewslines.com/uploads/2024/12/1735054798.jpg Johnson Lukaza, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Johnson Lukaza, the visionary Chairman of Proin Group of Companies and a renowned figure in business innovation, is proud to announce the launch of his brand-new personal website: https://www.johnsonlukaza.com/ Dar es Salaam, Tanzania - Johnson Lukaza, the visionary Chairman of Proin Group of Companies and a renowned figure in business innovation, is proud to announce the launch of his brand-new personal website: https://www.johnsonlukaza.com/ . Designed to showcase his entrepreneurial journey, leadership insights, and commitment to transformative growth, the website serves as a hub for connecting with audiences and inspiring future innovators. The new website highlights Johnson's remarkable career, from his roots in Tanzania to becoming a global leader in bridging gaps across industries. Visitors will find in-depth information about his professional philosophy, current projects, and a wealth of resources designed to empower budding entrepreneurs and established professionals alike. "My goal with this website is to create a platform that not only shares my journey but also sparks ideas and conversations that lead to meaningful change," said Lukaza. "I hope it becomes a resource for individuals looking to innovate, collaborate, and grow in their respective fields." The website's sleek and user-friendly design allows visitors to easily navigate through sections detailing Johnson's educational background, leadership principles, and Proin Group's groundbreaking initiatives. Key features include: * Insights and Interviews: Exclusive articles and Q&A sessions that offer a deep dive into Johnson's entrepreneurial strategies and his views on business creativity. * Innovation Resources: Tips and tools for fostering innovation, building teams, and achieving sustainable growth in any industry. * Cultural Exploration: Stories and insights on how Johnson's passion for understanding global cultures shapes his approach to leadership and business. As a forward-thinking entrepreneur, Johnson Lukaza understands the importance of leveraging digital platforms to engage with audiences worldwide. His new website exemplifies this commitment by providing valuable content and an opportunity to connect directly with him. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a business leader, or someone curious about the intersections of innovation and leadership, Johnson Lukaza's website offers a unique and engaging experience. About Johnson Lukaza Johnson Lukaza is the Chairman of Proin Group of Companies, based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Known for his visionary leadership and passion for fostering innovation, he has made significant strides in bridging gaps across industries while empowering skilled talent and driving technological advancement. With a background in global education and a deep commitment to his Tanzanian roots, Johnson is dedicated to creating sustainable solutions that benefit businesses and communities alike. To read more, visit the website here: https://www.johnsonlukaza.com/ Media Contact Contact Person: Johnson Lukaza Email: Send Email [ http://www.universalpressrelease.com/?pr=johnson-lukaza-unveils-brand-new-personal-website-to-inspire-innovation-and-leadership ] City: Dar es Salaam Country: Tanzania Website: https://www.johnsonlukaza.com/ This release was published on openPR.10 hot-ticket gifts we predict will sell out on Black Friday 2024Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece, Othello, cautions us that certain things are better left unaltered. The phrase “Let it alone” serves as a poignant reminder to preserve the integrity of what is already exemplary. The recent proposal by the Federal Executive Council to rechristen the University of Abuja as Yakubu Gowon University is a decision that should evoke profound concern among all patriotic Nigerians, particularly those who cherish national unity, identity, and educational heritage. The idea of renaming the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University since the announcement has sparked intense debate and protests from students, indigenous people of Abuja and other stakeholders. This move is part of a larger political culture of changing the names of tertiary institutions to immortalize politicians, which is highly unnecessary, especially for schools that have lived for decades. Universities are brands that have been built over decades, and changing their names can confuse foreign employers and academic institutions. For instance, if a university’s name were to be changed, it would be a challenge for graduates and raise questions about the validity of certificates issued to graduates. Moreover, renaming a university can be a complex issue. It’s essential to consider the potential consequences and ensure that any changes align with the institution’s values and mission. This is particularly important for institutions like the University of Abuja, which has established a strong reputation over the years and is known for unity and scholarship. It’s puzzling why anyone would risk damaging the reputation of a university for political gain. There are alternative ways to honour notable individuals, such as naming national symbols, or infrastructure after them. This approach would allow us to recognise the contributions of notable individuals without compromising the identity and heritage of our universities. This rejection is not driven by political resentment and as a matter of fact, this writer is a staunch member of APC but by a desire to maintain the integrity and recognition of Nigerian universities worldwide. In Social Exchange Theory, we are taught that honouring individuals for their achievements in office is not a bad omen. However, considering Gowon’s role in establishing five universities in his time as Head of State between 1966-1975, including the University of Jos, wouldn’t it be more fitting to rename the University of Jos after him instead? This approach would not only honour Gowon’s legacy but also acknowledge his contributions to the establishment of the University of Jos. Renaming the University of Abuja, on the other hand, might be seen as erasing its unique identity and the values it represents. Isn’t it worth considering alternative ways to honour Gowon’s legacy, such as naming a new institution, a major landmark after him or the unity schools? This argument isn’t about diminishing General Yakubu Gowon’s remarkable legacy. As a revered elder statesman and gentleman, he played a pivotal role in preserving Nigeria’s unity during the Civil War, and his contributions undoubtedly deserve recognition and immortalisation. Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the best President we never had was deservedly honoured with the rechristening of the former University of Ife after him in 1987. This was in acknowledgement of his visionary endeavour in conceptualising and developing that iconic institution, which once held the record of arguably the most beautiful university campus in Africa. The erstwhile University of Ife was one of Awolowo’s several heroics in the consummation of the growth of the old Western region. However, honouring Gowon’s legacy shouldn’t come at the expense of dismantling an institution that embodies the very unity he fought tirelessly to preserve. Related News Deputy Senate president restates N'Assembly's commitment to oversight functions Group hails Badaru over collaboration with security agencies AFAN advocates increased support for Bayelsa farmers The National Assembly, stakeholders of higher education and every Nigerian who believes in the power of unity and heritage, I implore you to reject this proposal as students and stakeholders of the University of Lagos resisted and rebelled against the attempt by the government of former President Goodluck Jonathan to re-designate the school after Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola in 2012. They voted loud and clear for the retention of the preexisting name and brand. The University of Abuja is not just another institution; it is a living embodiment of our national aspiration. Its name carries the weight of hope, and possibility, a Nigeria that can transcend its differences. The name ‘University of Abuja’ is more than a geographical descriptor. It is a brand, an identity, a promise. It stands shoulder to shoulder with legendary institutions like the University of Nigeria and the University of Lagos — each name a testament to something greater than a single individual. As always said by the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, UniAbuja is a number one University in Nigeria by accident of location. This institution is more than just a place of learning; it is a symbol of national unity, federal character, and collective identity. To rename it is to undermine these principles and send the wrong message to future generations. Let us preserve the University of Abuja for what it represents: a beacon of hope, unity, and national identity. Let us honour our past leaders in ways that do not compromise the core values and identities that bind us together as a nation. The University of Abuja must remain the University of Abuja. By preserving this name, we safeguard the sanctity of our national unity and ensure that future generations inherit an institution where the diverse spirit of Nigeria is celebrated and truly represented. The proposed name change is not just an administrative decision; it is a potential erosion of a carefully constructed symbol of national unity. The University of Abuja represents what Nigeria can be: diverse, integrated, and respectful of all its constituent parts. Let us protect this and let the University of Abuja remain the University of Abuja — a beacon of hope, a sanctuary of national integration, and a testament to what we can achieve when we see beyond our differences. Our unity is sacred. Our institutions are its guardians. The University of Abuja must remain exactly what it is: A University for all Nigerians. Universities displace indigenous people when you rename universities at a whim. You erase the history of people who identify with that place and what it stands for. I would suggest a national call for a stop to this tradition, not just UniAbuja. Instead, the government can build new infrastructure in those universities and name them after politicians like “Yakubu Gowon Digital Development Mega Library” or Hostels. To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you’re a father of the nation and a respected democrat. All the students of the University of Abuja are standing for your mandate, not for the gain of political goodies but in firm belief of your capacity. We hope you will have a rethink on this issue at hand. You have done so well for the nation’s educational sector, with the largest percentage given to education in the 2025 budget, which no one has done before you. In this light, we implore you not to give UniAbuja a new name, let it alone. •Sulayman Nafiu, a student of Law at the University of Abuja, writes via [email protected]
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