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The Louisville Cardinals host a ranked team for the second time this week when the No. 9 Duke Blue Devils pay a visit on Sunday, and the Cardinals hope for a better outcome in the teams' Atlantic Coast Conference opener. Louisville (5-3) has lost two straight, including an 86-63 thrashing at home by No. 23 Ole Miss in the SEC/ACC Challenge on Tuesday. The visiting Rebels shot 56.7 percent and dominated inside with a 48-26 edge on points in the paint. Tuesday's game was the first for coach Pat Kelsey's team without Kasean Pryor, who suffered a season-ending knee injury against Oklahoma in the Battle 4 Atlantis championship game. The 6-foot-10 senior wing, a transfer from South Florida, was a key player early on for Louisville, averaging 12 points and 6.1 rebounds per game and blocking eight shots in seven games. Pryor is the latest Cardinals player to go down with an injury. Before the season started, the school announced center Aly Khalifa and guard Kobe Rodgers would redshirt due to injuries. Then just two games into the season, Aboubacar Traore broke his arm and Koren Johnson injured his shoulder. Traore is expected back this season, but Johnson announced earlier this week that he would also redshirt this season and undergo surgery. Besides the injuries, the Cardinals are also struggling to hit 3-point shots, a key facet to Kelsey's offense. Louisville entered Saturday 340th nationally in 3-point shooting percentage at 27.3 percent and seventh nationally averaging 31.6 attempts per game. Despite the woes, Kelsey told reporters after the Ole Miss loss that he doesn't plan to change his offense, adding that he believes in his players. "The percentages even themselves out," he said. "This has happened before. I just don't want our guys to lose confidence, because I really, really believe in them. They'll bounce back and be better on Sunday." The Blue Devils (6-2) won their SEC/ACC Challenge game on Wednesday, beating No. 2 Auburn 84-78 in Durham. Duke overcame a 13-2 deficit to get the Quadrant 1 victory on its resume. Coach Jon Scheyer's team shot 50 percent from the field and committed just four turnovers. It was just the 14th time in program history the Blue Devils had four or fewer turnovers in a game. Freshman Cooper Flagg, a preseason All-American and a contender for national player of the year awards, leads the Blue Devils in scoring (16.6 ppg), rebounding (8.6 rpg), assists (4.1 apg) and blocked shots (1.4 per game). He scored 22, grabbed 11 rebounds and dished out four assists in the win against the Tigers, but it was another freshman who stole the show. Isaiah Evans came off the bench to score 18 points and hit 6 of 8 3-point shots. The guard averages 9.4 points per game but has only played in five games and has yet to play more than 17 minutes in a contest. Scheyer told reporters after the win that Evans provided a "special moment" when his team needed a lift. "To have that amazing courage to come into this game and do what he did -- I'm not sure if I've ever been a part of something like that in my years here," Scheyer said. --Field Level Media
Sean 'Diddy' Combs denied bail by third judge as he awaits sex trafficking trial
The Indiana State women's basketball team is preparing for a road test against Southeast Missouri State on Saturday. ISU coach Marc Mitchell said SEMO is a really tough team defensively and noted its scrappiness on that side of the ball. He said the Redhawks are defensive-minded and they crash the offensive glass really well. Mitchell said the Sycamores must match SEMO's intensity. "I think we're going to come out really intense and I think we're going to sustain that for 40 minutes," Mitchell said. "I think if we take care of the basketball, don't turn it over and defensive rebound, we'll win the game." Over the course of this season so far, Mitchell said they've learned they need to do a better job of taking care of the ball and making better decisions with it on the offensive side. "I think we need to come out of the locker room at halftime in the beginning of the third quarter and come out with more intensity," Mitchell said. On the positive side, Mitchell noted how hard they play. "You can't replace that," Mitchell emphasized. "I see us playing really really hard." The Sycamores have scored 56 points per game so far this season and have been led by Keslyn Secrist, who has averaged of 14.8 points per game. ISU has one other player in double figures as Chloe Williams averages ppg. Williams leads the Sycamores in blocks with six total. Saige Stahl tops the team in rebounding, grabbing 9.0 per outing.
Oregon reinstates plan to cut 90% of fossil fuel emissions by 2050Citizens Financial Group Inc. stock underperforms Thursday when compared to competitors despite daily gainsCaitlin Clark honored as AP Female Athlete of the Year following her impact on women's sports Caitlin Clark has been named the AP Female Athlete of the Year after raising the profile of women’s basketball to unprecedented levels in both college and the WNBA. She led Iowa to the national championship game, was the top pick in the WNBA draft and captured rookie of the year honors in the league. Fans packed sold-out arenas and millions of television viewers followed her journey on and off the court. Clark's exploits also put other women's sports leagues in the spotlight. A group of 74 sports journalists from AP and its members voted on the award. Other athletes who received votes included Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles and boxer Imane Khelif. Clark’s only the fourth women’s basketball player to win the award since it was first given in 1931. Soprano Angel Blue sings her first Metropolitan Opera 'Aida' in a new production Angel Blue, one of the most admired singers of her generation, is headlining the Metropolitan Opera’s first new production of Verdi’s “Aida” in 36 years. The 40-year-old takes on the title role of the enslaved Ethiopian princess torn between love for an Egyptian warrior and loyalty to her country. It’s a part that comes weighted with history, especially for a Black soprano at the Met, where Leontyne Price embodied the role from her first performance in 1961 until her retirement in 1985. Blue tells The Associated Press she’s long looked up to Price, and directors who have worked with her say the singer is ready for the challenge. Blue’s Met debut in ‘Aida’ will happen New Year’s Eve. Centuries-old angels uncovered at Boston church made famous by Paul Revere BOSTON (AP) — Conservators have uncovered eight angels in a historic Boston church that counted Paul Revere as a bell ringer and played a pivotal role in the Revolutionary War. The angels were painted in the early 18th century but painted over in 1912 as part of a renovation of the Old North Church. Inspired by research showing the existence of at least 20 angels, conservators for the past four months have been removing the white paint that covered the eight angels located on the balcony's arches in the church sanctuary. The public is now able to view them. Swiss Olympic snowboarder Sophie Hediger dies in avalanche, aged 26 Swiss Olympic snowboarder Sophie Hediger has died following an avalanche at a mountain resort. The country's skiing federation says the incident took place at the Arosa resort in Switzerland. The 26-year-old Hediger competed at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics in the women’s snowboard cross and the mixed team version of the same event. Hediger achieved her first two World Cup podium finishes in the 2023-24 season. Her best result was a second place in St. Moritz in January. NFL on Netflix: Christmas Day games are a 1st for streaming giant Netflix will have one of its biggest days since the site launched in 1998 when it carries two NFL games for the first time on Christmas. “NFL Christmas Gameday on Netflix” kicks off 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. Magic and lights draw crowds to an alpine village in Washington state for Christmas LEAVENWORTH, Wash. (AP) — Freshly baked pretzels, shining tree lights and sleds in the snow lend a ruddy warmth to an unlikely collection of Bavarian-themed chalets in the mountains of Washington state. Decades ago, the town of Leavenworth was a near ghost town, one of the poorest parts of the Pacific Northwest. The mines and the sawmill had closed, and even the railroad left. That’s when desperate business owners took a serious gamble -- reinventing the community in the vision of an alpine village. More than half a century later, the result brings tourists from near and far -- especially during the holidays, when Leavenworth takes on the flavor of a German Christmas market. Bill Clinton is hospitalized with a fever but in good spirits, spokesperson says WASHINGTON (AP) — Former President Bill Clinton was admitted Monday to MedStar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington after developing a fever. The 78-year-old was admitted in the “afternoon for testing and observation,” Angel Urena, Clinton’s deputy chief of staff, said in a statement. “He remains in good spirits and deeply appreciates the excellent care he is receiving,” Urena said. Packers clinch playoff berth with 1st shutout in NFL this season, 34-0 over Saints GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — Josh Jacobs gained 107 yards from scrimmage and scored a touchdown for a sixth straight game as the Green Bay Packers clinched a playoff berth while producing the first shutout of the NFL season, 34-0 over the hapless New Orleans Saints. Green Bay improved to 11-4 and earned its fifth postseason appearance in six years. New Orleans played without injured quarterback Derek Carr and running back Alvin Kamara. Rookie Spencer Rattler started and went 15 of 30 for 153 yards with an interception and a fumble. The Packers have won nine of their last 11 games. Prosecutors withdraw appeal of dismissed case against Alec Baldwin in fatal movie set shooting SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico prosecutors won’t pursue an appeal of a court’s decision to dismiss an involuntary manslaughter charge against Alec Baldwin. The actor had been charged in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during a rehearsal on a movie set outside Santa Fe in October 2021. Special Prosecutor Kari Morrissey withdrew on Monday the appeal of a July decision at trial to dismiss the charge. The decision to drop the appeal solidifies the decision by Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer halfway through trial to dismiss the case on allegations that police and prosecutors withheld evidence from the defense. An all-Filipino crew is set to make history in the Sydney to Hobart yacht race SYDNEY (AP) — There have been plenty of “firsts” in the history of the Sydney to Hobart yacht race which was first held in 1945. An all-Filipino crew of 15 sailors will make it another when the annual ocean classic begins in Sydney Harbor on Thursday. With veteran sailor Ernesto Echauz at the helm, Centennial 7 will embark on the 628-nautical mile race. The boat itself is no stranger to the race. Previously, the TP52 yacht was known as Celestial and claimed the Sydney to Hobart overall handicap victory in 2022 under Sam Haynes after being runner-up the year before.
Tafara Gapare throws down 19 points and a highlight dunk, and Maryland beats Bucknell 91-67FARGO, N.D., Nov. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NI Holdings, Inc. (the "Company”, NASDAQ: NODK) announced today the appointment of Seth C. Daggett as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective December 1, 2024. Mr. Daggett brings over two decades of industry experience, most recently serving as the Company's Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Treasurer. Mr. Daggett succeeds Cindy L. Launer, who had been serving as Interim CEO during the Board of Directors' (the "Board”) search for a permanent CEO, as previously announced. "It is an honor and privilege to have the opportunity to lead this outstanding organization,” Mr. Daggett said. "I look forward to continue working alongside our talented team of employees and agents who are committed every day to serving our customers and local communities,” said Mr. Daggett. "I'm confident that we will build upon our strong and longstanding foundation in North Dakota to create lasting value for our shareholders and a new chapter of sustained growth and success. I look forward to working closely with the Board and the Company's leadership team to help build off this foundation and lead the organization toward a successful future.” Eric K. Aamundstad, Chairman of the Board, commented, "On behalf of the Board, I'd like to thank Cindy for her service as Interim CEO. Her experience was invaluable in helping lead the company through this transition period. We are fortunate to have a proven leader in Seth, who has earned the respect of the Board, our employees, and agents for his judgment, strong leadership, extensive industry experience, and demonstrated ability to build and develop successful teams. He has deep ties not only to the Company, but also the North Dakota community, and we are confident in his ability to lead the Company forward.” Ms. Launer will return to her role as an independent non-executive director on the NI Holdings Board effective December 1, 2024. With Mr. Daggett's appointment as CEO, Matt Maki, Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis, will assume the role of Interim CFO, effective December 1, 2024. The Company will immediately begin a search for a permanent CFO, with no definitive timeline. About Seth Daggett Seth Daggett most recently served as the Company's Executive Vice President, Treasurer and CFO. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Daggett was CFO and Treasurer of RAM Mutual Insurance Company. He began his career as an auditor at Deloitte, prior to joining Travelers Companies, Inc. where he spent over ten years in a variety of roles, including Senior Director of Finance. A graduate of the University of North Dakota, he currently lives in West Fargo, North Dakota with his wife and children. About Matt Maki Matt Maki most recently served as the Company's Vice President, Financial Planning and Analysis. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Maki served as Vice President of Accounting and Treasurer of RAM Mutual Insurance Company. He began his career as an auditor at Ernst & Young, subsequently joining Travelers Companies, Inc., where he held various roles in international finance, financial reporting and treasury. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, he currently lives in Duluth, Minnesota with his wife and children. About the Company NI Holdings, Inc. is an insurance holding company. The company is a North Dakota business corporation that is the stock holding company of Nodak Insurance Company and became such in connection with the conversion of Nodak Mutual Insurance Company from a mutual to stock form of organization and the creation of a mutual holding company. The conversion was consummated on March 13, 2017. Immediately following the conversion, all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Nodak Insurance Company were issued to Nodak Mutual Group, Inc., which then contributed the shares to NI Holdings in exchange for 55% of the outstanding shares of common stock of NI Holdings. Nodak Insurance Company then became a wholly-owned stock subsidiary of NI Holdings. NI Holdings' financial statements are the consolidated financial results of NI Holdings; Nodak Insurance Company, including Nodak Insurance Company's wholly-owned subsidiaries American West Insurance Company, Primero Insurance Company, and Battle Creek Insurance Company; and Direct Auto Insurance Company. Safe Harbor Statement Some of the statements included in this news release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results could vary materially. Factors that could cause actual results to vary materially include risks we describe in the periodic reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. We disclaim any obligation to update such statements or to announce publicly the results of any revisions that we may make to any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements. For a detailed discussion of the risk factors that could affect our actual results, please refer to the risk factors identified in our SEC reports, including, but not limited to our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as filed with the SEC. Investor Relations Contact: Matt Maki Vice President, Interim Chief Financial Officer 701-212-5976 [email protected]
Sean 'Diddy' Combs denied bail by third judge as he awaits sex trafficking trialPrincess Charlotte looks on in awe at surprise performance after Kate Middleton said Prince Louis, six, was 'bursting' to spill the beans The Princess of Wales's Together At Christmas aired on ITV on Christmas Eve READ MORE: Prince Louis' words to Kate at her Christmas carol concert By ELEANOR DYE and ALANAH KHOSLA and REBECCA ENGLISH, ROYAL EDITOR Published: 22:39 GMT, 24 December 2024 | Updated: 23:09 GMT, 24 December 2024 e-mail 28 shares View comments It appears Prince Louis may have managed to keep his 'big secret' after all - as Princess Charlotte was surprised with a ballet performance at Kate's carol concert. The service, which was filmed at London 's Westminster Abbey earlier this month, is Kate's fourth annual Christmas Eve concert and was attended by members of the royal family including Prince William and their children George, Charlotte and Louis. When the service was filmed on December 6, Kate said that she had enlisted Prince Louis, six, to keep the performance by soloists from the Royal Ballet as a surprise for her daughter Princess Charlotte, nine. Kate told Paloma Faith that Louis had been 'bursting' to spill the beans - leading royal fans to doubt that he would actually be able to. But during the spectacular performance on Tuesday night, Charlotte appeared awed and surprised as she watched the ballet - meaning Louis may have held true to his word after all. Speaking to Paloma Faith, Kate said she asked Louis 'Can you keep a secret otherwise it won't be a surprise for Charlotte, who loves her ballet dancing'. She said that Louis agreed. 'He has kept the secret for, what, nearly two weeks now.' 'Very challenging,' said Faith. Princess Charlotte appeared visibly awed as she watched a ballet performance at Kate's carol concert - meaning Prince Louis kept his 'big secret' after all Kate told Paloma Faith that Louis had been 'bursting' to spill the beans - leading royal fans to doubt that he would actually be able to 'For a six-year-old,' replied Kate. 'And then this morning he said: "Mummy, please can I tell her - I'm bursting." I did drop off and he really wanted to tell her. I think - hopefully - he's kept it.' Prince Louis has long stolen the nation's hearts with his adorable actions, and he also delivered a sweet handwritten note during the service. 'Thank you for granny and grandpa because they have played games with me,' the special message read. Meanwhile Princess Charlotte certainly stole the show at the carol service. The young royal, nine, won hearts across the nation through her sweet enjoyment of the service, giggling at various moments alongside her brothers Prince George, 11, and Louis. Richard E. Grant was one of the readers at the service, retelling his tale of A Christmas Carol with some very entertaining voices and expressions. The Wales siblings appeared to be having a thoroughly enjoyable time, with all three laughing and exchanging glances with one another. Charlotte, nine, couldn't keep the smile off her face as she watched the ballet with her family Louis had managed to keep it to himself despite sitting next to Charlotte for the duration of the service Princess Charlotte certainly stole the show at her mother Kate's annual carol service, which aired on Christmas Eve The princess was also seen giggling during the carol O Come All Ye Faithful - but soon composed herself and began singing along heartily. She was also very much the sensible sibling as the family lit candles at the start of the service, with a calm and controlled Charlotte making sure young Prince Louis had his candle lit and was behaving sensibly. During Away In A Manager Charlotte didn't even need to look at her carol sheet, confidently belting the words alongside her smiling mother Kate. And during a ballet performance - for which she was in the front row - Charlotte looked on in awe, fixated on the spectacle. The Princess of Wales returned to screens to host her annual Together At Christmas carol concert after her toughest year yet. The service, which was filmed at Westminster Abbey earlier this month, is Kate's fourth annual Christmas Eve concert and was attended by members of the royal family including Prince William and their children George, Charlotte and Louis. Kate bravely hosted crowds with a beaming smile on her face after an incredibly difficult year in which she has completed preventative chemotherapy treatment for cancer . At the start of her annual carol concert, Kate called for people to 'slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all' and turn to 'love, not fear'. The broadcast of Kate's service featured a special festive message from the royal, 42, in which she spoke about the importance of love and empathy. It marked one of the few times the mother-of-three has made a public appearance this year, after undergoing her cancer treatment - and is part of her gradual return to royal duties. Her heartfelt message was also given in a letter to every guest at the concert on December 6, and 15 regional community services. Kate said: 'Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year, it is a time for presents, tinsel and mince pies, but it's also a time to slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all. 'It is when we stop and take ourselves away from the pressures of daily life, that we find the space to live our lives with an open heart, with love, kindness and forgiveness, so much of what the Christmas spirit is all about. The young royal, nine, took charge with lighting the candles, making sure her brothers were being sensible She was also very much the sensible sibling as the family lit candles at the start of the service, with a calm and controlled Charlotte making sure young Prince Louis had his candle lit and was behaving sensibly The young princess was as regal as ever as she sat in the front row alongside her brother Louis and mother Kate Charlotte was listening very intently throughout the service and enthusiastically joined in the singing Prince William and Catherine Princess of Wales together with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis at the end of the service The Princess of Wales has returned to screens to host her annual Together At Christmas carol concert after her toughest year yet The Waleses had the front row at the carol service, with the three children sitting in between Kate and William The Princess of Wales called for people to 'slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all' and turn to 'love, not fear' in the opening for her annual carol concert 'The Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others. It also reflects our own vulnerabilities and reminds us of the importance of giving and receiving empathy, as well as just how much we need each other in spite of our differences. Above all else, it encourages us to turn to love, not fear.' The theme of this year's 'Together at Christmas' concert is love and empathy, which is perhaps suitable considering the difficult year the Princess has had. Kate continued: 'The love that we show ourselves and the love we show others. Love that listens with empathy, love that is kind and understanding, love that is forgiving, and love that brings joy and hope. 'It is love which is the greatest gift we can receive, not just at Christmas but every day of our lives.' Her message was told in the form of a voice over played at the start of the 'Together at Christmas' carol concert at Westminster Abbey. Kate has been described as being ‘hands on’ over every aspect of the service, including holding regular planning meetings at Windsor ahead of filming. On the day the service was filmed, the Princess arrived on her own at 4pm to view the abbey and oversee last minute arrangements. However, the supportive royals have also helped Kate bring her ideas together, with everyone from King Charles , who donated Christmas trees, and Prince Louis, who penned a sweet note, helping to make the service a seasonal success. Kate was joined by her supportive family - Prince William and her children George, Charlotte and Louis A sweet moment from the start of the service showed Princess Charlotte lighting her younger brother Prince Louis's candle Kate was joined by her supportive children who have been by her side throughout her cancer battle Kate (pictured left) hosted her fourth 'Together at Christmas ' concert at Westminster Abbey at the start of December, with members of the royal family such as Prince William and the Wales children Prince George, Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte in attendance The Princess of Wales looked elegant in an Alexander McQueen red coat, featuring a statement black bow, which she teamed with black Ralph Lauren boots for the festive occasion. The event, which was attended by 1,600 people 'reflects upon...how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives'. The service will shine a light on individuals from all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities'. 'It's been a focal point for her, as it is each year,' a source added. Combining traditional and modern elements to encompass people of all faiths and none, the service will see the world-renowned Westminster Abbey choir perform some of the nation’s most beloved carols, alongside musical performances by guests including Olivia Dean, Gregory Porter, Paloma Faith and JP Cooper, as well as a specially composed piece by pianist Rosey Chan. Guests will also watch a specially curated performance by two Soloists from The Royal Ballet and students from The Royal Ballet School. During the service, poignant readings linked to the theme of love and empathy will be delivered by speakers including The Prince of Wales, Olympian Adam Peaty OBE, Sophie Okonedo CBE, Michelle Dockery and Richard E. Grant. The Princess of Wales, 42, hosted her fourth 'Together at Christmas' service at the historic church in the heart of London at the start of December Alongside this, candles will be lit by notable people linked to the theme including Lindsey Burrow, Sir Chris Hoy MBE, and teammate Paralympians Lizzi Jordan and Danni Khan. Nodding to the importance of nature as a source of healing and comfort, the Abbey will be adorned with sustainable, festive decorations and foliage, providing a beautiful Christmas backdrop for the Service. This year a ‘Kindness Tree’ will be situated outside the Abbey for guests to dedicate a decoration to someone who has supported them throughout their life, highlighting the importance of empathy, love and kindness to us all. 'In addition, guests waiting to enter the Abbey, will be treated to 2 music by young performers, including a 25-piece steel pan band and jazz ensemble from Restore the Music, a nationwide charity funding music education for young people Sat behind the Wales family, who were in the front row, was Princess Anne 's daughter Zara Tindall, who looked stunning in a velvet suit, while the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester were behind William. Next to them was George Gilman, who is married to the Gloucesters' daughter, Lady Rose Windsor. Prince Louis and the Princess of Wales during the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey Lady Rose wasn't present, but Gilman was joined by their daughter Lyla, 14, amid the backdrop of the beautifully decorated Abbey. After Kate's opening speech, the broadcast of her annual festive gathering is narrated by Scottish actress Kelly Macdonald and 'featurse three special community films which bring to life the stories of people and organisations who have inspired, counselled and comforted others in their times of need'. Kensington Palace said: 'In each of the films, the groups are seen receiving letters from the princess inviting them to attend – and in the case of the Sankofa Songsters sing at – the service at Westminster Abbey.' The films showcase the Worcestershire Gingerbread Group, Go Beyond and intergenerational choir the Sankofa Songsters. The Prince and Princess of Wales and their children, Prince George, Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte, arrive for the Together At Christmas carol service The first - focusing on the Worcestershire Gingerbread Group - will highlight a single mother based in Worcestershire, who set up the ground to tackle loneliness. The film showcasing Go Beyond will feature six young carers aged between eight and 13, who 'go above and beyond every day to show empathy and support to their families'. And the last will detail an intergenerational choir based in Belong Chester. This not-for-profit care village brings together care home residents and their young friends from The Nursery in Belong, operated by national charity Ready Generations. Kensington Palace says the choir has 'enhanced the lives of everyone, strengthening relationships between all ages by spreading kindness and love, with members aged from two to 100.' It comes after it was revealed the Princess reached out to grieving Lady Gabriella Windsor for help in planning her carol concert. Kate made her appeal over the summer to Lady Gabriella, 43, whose husband Thomas Kingston killed himself in February. The daughter of Prince and Princess Michael of Kent took a major role in planning the Westminster Abbey service on December 6. Lady Gabriella’s husband financier Thomas Kingston, 45, died on February 25 from a head injury and a gun was found near his body at his parents’ home in the Cotswolds. Lady Helen Taylor and Lady Gabriella Windsor arrive for the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey in London The Princess of Wales meets Gregory Porter, Olivia Dean and Paloma Faith during the carol service Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and the Princess of Wales during the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey The carol service was staged on December 6 and featured performances by Paloma Faith, jazz singer Gregory Porter, singer-songwriter JP Cooper who performed with the Soul Sanctuary Choir and new singing talent Olivia Dean. Kate and William were joined by their children Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, aged six, who all held candles during the service, as did the other guests who included members of the monarchy. Olympic cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy, who is terminally ill with prostate cancer, lit a candle as did Lindsey Burrow, the wife of former rugby league star Rob Burrow who died in June following a much-publicised battle with motor neurone disease. Readings were given by actors Richard E Grant, Downton Abbey star Michelle Dockery, Sophie Okonedo, nominated for an Oscar for her role in the film Hotel Rwanda, and Olympic swimming gold medallist Adam Peaty. The service, produced by The Royal Foundation, aims to 'celebrate the many people supporting those in need – individuals who have inspired, counselled, comforted, and above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive'. ITV said: 'This theme takes inspiration from the Christmas story which encourages us to consider the experiences of others and the important human need of giving and receiving empathy.' The concert was the first time the Wales family had been seen together in public since their appearance at Trooping the Colour , the King's birthday parade, in June. Kate Middleton , 42, hosted her fourth 'Together at Christmas ' service at the historic church in the heart of London at the start of December. Pictured: Gregory Porter As he performs the Christmas anthem - written by Noël Regney and Gloria Shayne in 1962 as a plea to end the Cuban Missile Crisis - the camera pans to show an audience engrossed in his rendition The concert was one of the few times the mother-of-three has made a public appearance this year, after undergoing a course of preventative chemotherapy in the first half of 2024 She was also accompanied by the wider Middleton family , from supportive mother Carole to sister Pippa, 41, and brother James, 37. The princess, who has been 'hands on' over every aspect of the service and held regular planning meetings at Windsor, arrived on her own at 4pm to view the abbey and oversee last minute arrangements before walking around to greet other guests. When singer Paloma Faith expressed sympathy for the princess, who this year underwent chemotherapy, Kate, 42, replied: 'I didn't know this time last year it was going to be the year I've just had '. She went on: ‘The unplanned... but I think lots of people this year have had such challenging times and many who are here today...' The princess, who married Prince William in 2011 and attended the late Queen's funeral in 2022 at Westminster Abbey, said that the building held 'so many memories' for her. Royal Carols: Together At Christmas is available to watch now on ITV1 and ITVX. Prince George Kate Middleton ITV Royals Share or comment on this article: Princess Charlotte looks on in awe at surprise performance after Kate Middleton said Prince Louis, six, was 'bursting' to spill the beans e-mail 28 shares Add comment
A top hedge fund manager who once likened China 's human rights abuses to being a "strict parent" sits on the board of an NGO whose goal is to advance the priorities of the Chinese Communist Party. Ray Dalio, a self-described moderate who has been critical of Democrats and Republicans, sits alongside several Chinese businessmen with ties to the CCP on the board of the China Global Philanthropy Institute. CGPI, which has received accolades from the Chinese government for its work, conducts research and educates professionals intending to help the CCP achieve its goals in the realm of civil society. Ma Weihua, the chairman of the organization’s board of directors, previously served in China’s National People’s Congress and was a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, a government body which describes itself as “a major achievement of the Communist Party of China” that exists to integrate “Marxist-Leninist theories on the united front, political parties, and democratic politics with the unique realities and fine traditional culture of China.” Dalio sits alongside Ma and a number of others with links to the Chinese government on CGPI’s board of directors. Trustee Shen Xuxin is also a member of the CPCC, board supervisor Liu Jing held leadership roles in the Chinese government before joining the CGPI, and trustee Lei Yongsheng is the chief supervisor of the China Charity Alliance, an organization led by China’s minister of civil affairs that undertakes tasks “assigned by the government.” Wang Zhenyao, the founding president of the CGPI and the man who convinced Dalio to co-found the NGO, served as the director of China’s Ministry of Civil Affairs before embarking on transforming Chinese philanthropy. Dalio has landed himself in hot water for his comments on China’s approach to human rights. In 2021, Dalio likened China to a "strict parent" when discussing the disappearances of political dissidents in the country, sparking backlash. He later walked these comments back, saying that he "sloppily answered a question” and affirming his commitment to human rights. Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT), who also has a background in finance, has criticized Dalio for his activities in China. “Ray Dalio is brilliant and a friend, but his feigned ignorance of China’s horrific abuses and rationalization of complicit investments, there is a sad moral lapse,” the senator wrote in 2021. “Tragically, it is shared by far too many here and throughout the free world.” In addition to being led by former members of the Chinese government, CGPI has also won the praise of the Chinese government for its operations, with the Ministry of Civil Affairs granting it an award for its research on public services. More than 20 individuals trained by CGPI received awards at the state-run China Charity Awards in 2021. The admiration goes both ways as Ma, the CGPI chairman, praised the CCP in 2019 for making “historic progress in its fight against poverty.” The warm relationship between CGPI and the CCP is reflected in the organization’s operations. CGPI is a proponent of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, a state-funded global infrastructure investment project that critics argue is being used by China to build political influence in foreign nations. “With the wisdom and responsibility of a great power, China is strengthening international cooperation and promoting exchange and integration of economy and culture of the Belt and Road countries with win-win cooperation,” a 2019 press release reads , describing the infrastructure program. “CGPI is willing to provide academic support for the ‘Belt and Road’ World Charity Journey, jointly contribute to Belt and Road construction, and contribute to the development of philanthropy in China and the world.” CGPI believes in “integrating charity into the Belt and Road Initiative” to help "guarantee" its success in part by encouraging “private foundations to take part in and contribute to the initiative.” In 2019, the organization signed a memorandum of understanding with Italian philanthropists to commemorate Italy’s entrance into the global infrastructure program. It was joined by the China Development Research Foundation in signing the memorandum. The China Development Research Foundation operates under the State Council, which is the “executive body of the supreme organ of state power,” according to the National People’s Congress. The Dalio Foundation granted nearly $6 million to the state-run research foundation between 2018 and 2023, according to tax forms. The Government Accountability Office, the U.S. federal government’s official watchdog agency, worries that China is using the Belt and Road Initiative to purchase influence in the developing world by shackling nations with infrastructure debt, according to a report released in October. CGPI launched a “Global Climate Action” initiative alongside the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 2018. The State Council oversees the Chinese Academy of Sciences , and its president, a member of the CCP, wrote that the agency “will be guided by Xi Jinping’s thoughts on socialism with Chinese characteristics for [a] new era.” Among the initiative’s goals were building a “green” Belt and Road Initiative. Aside from lending his name and labor to CGPI, Dalio also donates a considerable amount of wealth to the organization. The Dalio Foundation has donated about $2.2 million to the NGO since 2018, according to the most recently available tax forms. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, who helped Dalio found CGPI, himself directs millions of dollars into the arms of the Chinese government and organizations that collaborate with the Chinese military through the Gate Foundation. Robert Rosen, the director of philanthropic partnerships at the Gates Foundation, also sits on CGPI’s board of directors. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER Politically, Dalio positions himself as a moderate. He has called the Republican Party “unethical” and “almost fascist” while lambasting Democrats for being “untruthful and enigmatic.” “What the country needs is the moderates coming together to be able to work together and make great reform,” Dalio said in September, criticizing both Vice President Kamala Harris and President-elect Donald Trump. “What the country needs is broad-based prosperity.” Trump and Harris were both critical of China on the campaign trail, often accusing each other of being too weak on the CCP. CGPI and the Dalio Foundation did not respond to the Washington Examiner’s requests for comment.
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Six-year-old JonBenet Ramsey was killed in her home in Boulder, Colorado, US, on December 25, 1996. The girl had suffered a broken skull and her body was also found with a garotte around the neck. Images and footage of JonBenet competing in child beauty pageants helped fan interest in the case, which mushroomed hugely in the US and internationally. A lengthy ransom note and a missing person's call initially convinced police the girl had been kidnapped. The note made a demand for US$118,000 on behalf of a "small foreign faction" and threatened to kill JonBenet. "Speaking to anyone about your situation, such as Police, FBI, etc, will result in your daughter being beheaded. If we catch you talking to a stray dog, she dies," it read. JonBenet's body was found in the basement of her family's home on December 26. It was behind a latched door in a basement that an initial police search had determined to be unimportant - as at the time they were checking for a possible kidnapper's escape route, and the door was latched from the inside. Her father opened it during a subsequent search to find JonBenet's body covered by a white blanket. Despite multiple theories being pursued over the years, the murder remains unsolved. The case is still considered open at the Boulder Police Department. Mikhail Gorbachev, the final leader of the Soviet Union, signs the decree relinquishing control of nuclear weapons to Boris Yeltsin at the Kremlin in Moscow, on Wednesday, December 25, 1991. Gorbachev announced his resignation in a live televised address to the nation that same day, drawing a line under more than 74 years of Soviet history. By the fall of 1991, however, deepening economic woes and secessionist bids by Soviet republics had made the collapse of the USSR all but inevitable. The red flag of the Soviet Union was pulled down over the Kremlin that night as well, and replaced with the tricolour of the Russian Federation. Charlemagne, King of the Franks, was crowned as Emperor of the Romans by Pope Leo III in Rome on December 25, 800. Although the Eastern Roman Empire had persisted past the "fall of Rome", the papacy wanted to return imperial glory to western Europe as well. Charlemagne united much of western Europe under his rule, and imposed conversions to Christianity on many of his subjects. However, his capital was in Aachen, not Rome. His Carolingian Empire did not last for long, but it is considered to have planted the seed for the German-based Holy Roman Empire that persisted into the early modern age. US revolutionary general George Washington led a surprise attack across the Delaware River on the night of December 25, 1776. Washington was able to defeat German mercenaries hired by Britain in the Battle of Trenton on December 26 in a crucial turning point of the War of Independence. On December 25, 1951, four University of Glasgow students - Ian Hamilton, Gavin Vernon, Kay Matheson, and Alan Stuart - managed to break into Westminster Abbey and retrieve (or steal, depending on your perspective) the Stone of Scone. The Stone was used in the coronation of Scottish monarchs, until King Edward I took it during his invasion of Scotland in 1296. It has since been used in the coronation of English and British monarchs since that day, up until Charles III. The theft of the stone led to the first closing of the Anglo-Scottish border in centuries. The stone was eventually recovered in February 1952, though the students were not prosecuted for fear of sparking bitter political backlash. Typhoon Phanphone devastated the Philippines on December 25, 2019. Winds hit up to 150km/hr ravaged the country, just a week after a similar typhoon had passed through. The typhoon ultimately killed about 50 people, with 55 missing and hundreds more injured. It left a damage bill of more than $100 million.
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Watson and Loyola Chicago defeat South Florida 74-72The Container Store which is a 46 year old retail chain specializing in storage and organization solutions has eventually filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in a Texas district court, reported Npr. ET Year-end Special Reads Top 10 equity mutual funds of the year. Do you have any? How India flexed its global power muscles in 2024 2024 was the year India became the talk of America According to Npr, in spite of the significant financial challenges, the company still remains pretty committed to continuing operations with CEO Satish Malhotra assuring their customers that the business will ‘stay’ and also maintain its service quality. The retailer is burdened with approximately $243 million in debt while holding just $11.8 million in cash. To navigate this severe financial crisis, the company plans to secure $40 million in new financing and develop a reorganization plan within the next 35 days, asserted Npr. Its 102 nationwide locations and website will continue to operate normally during the bankruptcy process. The bankruptcy follows a challenging period of declining sales with a 10.5% sales drop in the most recent quarter resulting in a $16 million loss. The company actually attributes its financial struggles to softening consumer demand and increased price sensitivity, noted Npr. 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It should be also noted that the Container Store's Elfa brand which is based in Sweden is not at all included in the bankruptcy filing which is potentially providing a financial buffer for the restructuring efforts of the renowned company. FAQs: Which renowned retail chain has recently filed for bankruptcy? The Container Store which is a 46 year old retail chain specializing in storage and organization solutions has eventually filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in a Texas district court. Which brand of Container Store is not based in the bankruptcy filing? The Container Store's Elfa brand which is based in Sweden is not at all included in the bankruptcy filing which is potentially providing a financial buffer for the restructuring efforts of the renowned company. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )