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Check out CGPA of UI student who emerged as best graduating student in arts faculty

President-elect Donald Trump’s lawyers urge judge to toss his hush money conviction

The 2024 fire season cost Oregon emergency response agencies nearly $350 million, and the state leaders are struggling to find a way to cover outstanding bills. Gov. Tina Kotek announced Tuesday following reporting from Oregon Public Broadcasting that she’ll call a special session of the Legislature on Dec. 12 to appropriate at least $218 million from the state’s general fund to cover remaining fire costs. Lawmakers will already be at the Capitol for committee hearings during that time. More than half of the $350 million in outstanding debts will eventually be covered by disaster relief funds from the federal government, according to a news release from Kotek’s office, but the state wants to pay those owed as soon as possible. Rep. Pam Marsh, D-Ashland, explained that it’s about ensuring state agencies don’t burn bridges with private contractors who stepped in to help with fire prevention or response work this year. “We contracted with people, and we are obligated to pay them, and we will want many of those people to bring their machines, their aircraft, their bodies back next fire season,” Marsh said. Nearly 2 million acres burned this summer and fall — more than three times the 10-year average — mostly in eastern Oregon grass and shrub, with about 25% of it in forestland, according to the Wildland Mapping Institute . More than one-third of all acres burned have been on private land, and about 62% was on federal land. At least 42 homes and 132 other structures were burned. President-elect Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to withhold federal wildfire reimbursements to California as a form of political gamesmanship. Asked whether Kotek is seeking more money to prepare for potential federal withholding, Anca Matica, a Kotek spokesperson, said it’s not part of the current issue being solved by the special session. “The state needs to pay its bills as expeditiously as possible,” Matica said in an email. Kotek declared a state of emergency in response to wildfire threats and invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act a record 17 times. This mobilized structural firefighting resources coordinated by the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office to local communities. The state fire marshal is on the hook for more than $200 million of the $218 million owed by the state to contractors. Incoming House Republican leader Christine Drazan of Canby expressed frustration in a news release that Kotek did not talk with her or her peers before announcing the special session, but she said Republicans are willing to work cooperatively to solve the funding issues. Drazan lost the 2022 gubernatorial race to Kotek, and the two frequently butted heads in the House when Kotek served as speaker and Drazan as minority leader. “Evidently, the Governor will be communicating via press release rather than a phone call. That is her prerogative,” Drazan said. “Despite this bizarre approach to leadership, Republicans welcome the opportunity to solve this problem by ensuring the people who work to protect Oregon communities during wildfire season are paid for their service.” The Department of Administrative Services, responsible for tracking spending, did not respond to a request for a list of outstanding payments from the wildfire season by Tuesday afternoon. Fire agencies already got $47.5 million from the Legislature’s Emergency Board in September to cover some outstanding costs, and the Oregon State Treasury rejected the Department of Forestry’s request for a $60 million loan last month, according to reporting from Willamette Week. Wildfire protection and response costs in Oregon are generally split between private and public forest and range landowners and Oregonians via the state’s general fund. Costs for 2024 were projected to be about $136 million. “Fighting wildfires of the magnitude we saw this season required a tremendous level of resources that even wildfire experts couldn’t foresee,” said House Speaker Julie Fahey, D-Eugene, in a statement. GET THE MORNING HEADLINES. SUBSCRIBECollege Football Playoff's first 12-team bracket is set with Oregon No. 1 and SMU in, Alabama out

Aussie great takes a dig at Sam Konstas over Jasprit Bumrah theatrics in 4th Test

President-elect Donald Trump’s lawyers urge judge to toss his hush money conviction

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), during its “Ask BSNL” campaign conducted on X (formerly Twitter) on December 20, shared several significant updates about the progress of its 4G network rollout and other upcoming services. Among the key announcements, the state-owned telecom company confirmed its plan to introduce eSIM services by March 2025. This development is particularly important for users of devices from manufacturers like Apple and Google, which typically feature a single physical SIM card slot alongside an eSIM option. BSNL also reiterated its commitment to completing the nationwide rollout of its 4G network by June 2025. As part of this expansion, the company plans to introduce supplementary services like Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) in a gradual, phased approach. These enhancements aim to improve the user experience and provide seamless connectivity across the network. #AskBSNL BSNL is in the process of rolling out 4G services pan India, and the process is likely to be completed by June 2025. eSIM will be made available in next three months. VoWifi feature is being tested in BSNL Network. We expect to launch it all over India basis in near... https://t.co/fqH0PJQ51h — BSNL India (@BSNLCorporate) December 20, 2024 ALSO READ | Samsung Terminates Employees For Leaking Images Of Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: Report Will BSNL Increase Tariffs? Sandeep Govil, Director of Consumer Mobility on the BSNL board, addressed concerns about potential price changes. He assured users that BSNL currently has no intention of raising tariffs, providing a sense of relief to customers. This announcement comes at a time when all three major private telecom providers in India have recently implemented price hikes, making BSNL a more appealing alternative for those considering a switch. These updates highlight BSNL's efforts to enhance its service offerings while maintaining affordability for its subscribers. BSNL's 4G network rollout is set to be supported by the deployment of 22,000 towers across India as part of the ambitious 4G saturation project. The telecom company aims to establish a total of 100,000 towers nationwide, with plans to expand this infrastructure in subsequent phases based on future requirements. In addition to its 4G efforts, BSNL has been introducing various innovative services. Notably, the company serves as the exclusive provider of global satellite phone services in India. BSNL has also become the first telecom operator in the country to offer direct-to-device satellite connectivity. However, specific details regarding the subscription process for this cutting-edge service are yet to be disclosed, leaving customers eager for further information.

But it is not the largest prize a person has won in this country. Here are the 10 biggest UK lottery winners – all from EuroMillions draws – and what some of them did with their fortunes. A UK ticket-holder scooped the record EuroMillions jackpot of £195 million on July 19 2022 – the biggest National Lottery win of all time. Joe and Jess Thwaite, from Gloucester, scooped a then record-breaking £184,262,899 with a Lucky Dip ticket for the draw on May 10 2022. At the time, Joe was a communications sales engineer, and Jess ran a hairdressing salon with her sister. Tuesday’s winner is wealthier than former One Direction member Harry Styles and heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua, who are both worth £175 million, according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List. Players have been urged to check their tickets to see if they can claim the prize. The fourth biggest winner of the National Lottery to date scooped £170 million in October 2019, after matching all the numbers in a Must Be Won draw. Colin and Chris Weir, from Largs, North Ayrshire, bagged their historic winnings in July 2011, making them the biggest UK winners at the time. Colin used £2.5 million of his fortune to invest in his beloved Partick Thistle Football Club, which led to one of the stands at the stadium being named after him. He later acquired a 55% shareholding in the club, which was to be passed into the hands of the local community upon his death. He died in December 2019, aged 71. The couple also set up the Weir Charitable Trust in 2013 and donated £1 million to the Scottish independence referendum in 2014. They divorced in the same year as Colin’s death. Adrian and Gillian won 190 million euros in a EuroMillions draw in August 2012, which came to just over £148 million. The couple bought a Grade II listed estate in Cambridgeshire, complete with cinema and billiards room, but it was sold in 2021, some years after the pair divorced, as reported by The Mirror. The seventh biggest National Lottery winner won a Superdraw rollover jackpot in June 2019, and decided not to go public with their success. After nine rollovers, one lucky anonymous ticket-holder bagged more than £122 million in April 2021. Another of the UK’s top 10 lottery winners found their fortune through a Superdraw jackpot rollover, this time in April 2018. Former social worker and teacher Frances set up two charitable foundations after she and her husband won almost £115 million on New Year’s Day 2019. She estimates that she has already given away £60 million to charitable causes, as well as friends and family. She considers helping others to be an addiction, saying: “It gives you a buzz and it’s addictive. I’m addicted to it now.”

Pep Guardiola’s side avoided the indignity of a sixth successive defeat in all competitions and looked on course for a welcome victory thanks to a double from Erling Haaland – the first from the penalty spot – and a deflected effort from Ilkay Gundogan. Yet Guardiola was left with his head in hands as Feyenoord roared back in the last 15 minutes with goals from Anis Hadj Moussa, Sergio Gimenez and David Hancko, two of them after Josko Gvardiol errors. FULL-TIME | A point apiece. 🩵 3-3 ⚫️ #ManCity | #UCL pic.twitter.com/6oj1nEOIwm — Manchester City (@ManCity) November 26, 2024 Arsenal delivered the statement Champions League win Mikel Arteta had demanded as they swept aside Sporting Lisbon 5-1. Arteta wanted his team to prove their European credentials, and goals from Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Gabriel, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard got their continental campaign back on track in style following the 1-0 defeat at Inter Milan last time out. A memorable victory also ended Sporting’s unbeaten start to the season, a streak of 17 wins and one draw, the vast majority of which prompted Manchester United to prise away head coach Ruben Amorim. Putting on a show at Sporting 🌟 pic.twitter.com/Yi9MgRZEkl — Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 26, 2024 Paris St Germain were left in serious of danger of failing to progress in the Champions League as they fell to a 1-0 defeat to Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena. Kim Min-jae’s header late in the first half was enough to send PSG to a third defeat in the competition this season, leaving them six points off the automatic qualification places for the last 16 with three games to play. Luis Enrique’s side, who had Ousmane Dembele sent off, were deservedly beaten by Bayern who dominated chances and possession. 🔔 FULL TIME – Victory at home! +3 in the #UCL 👏❤️ #FCBayern #MiaSanMia | #FCBPSG #UCL pic.twitter.com/BYE23dXXih — FC Bayern (@FCBayernEN) November 26, 2024 Elsewhere, Atletico Madrid were 6-0 winners away to Sparta Prague, Julian Alvarez and Angel Correa each scoring twice whilst there were also goals from Marcos Llorente and Antoine Griezmann. Barcelona ended tournament debutants Brest’s unbeaten start with a 3-0 victory courtesy of two goals from Robert Lewandowski – one a penalty – and Dani Olmo. Lewandowski’s first was his 100th Champions League goal, only the third man to reach the mark after Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. A Castello Lukeba own goal saw Inter Milan go top of the standings with a narrow 1-0 win over RB Leipzig at San Siro, whilst Bayer Leverkusen were emphatic victors against Red Bull Salzburg, Florian Wirtz scoring twice to move Xabi Alonso’s side into the automatic qualification places. Atalanta continued their strong start, albeit whilst conceding a first goal in Europe this season in a 6-1 win away to Young Boys, whilst Tammy Abraham scored the decisive goal as AC Milan beat Slovan Bratislava 3-2.As we count the days to the new year, talks surrounding the next-generation flagships have become more interesting, as we are hearing several leaks and rumours. While the Apple iPhone 17 series is months away from launch, people are quite excited to know about its upgrades, new features, and any major changes. Every year we see Apple putting more effort into performance and user experience with minor design changes. Now, with iPhone 17 Pro models, the trend may change as several new reports hint towards a major design overhaul for the rear as well as the front panel. Therefore, know what the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max would look like. Also read: iPhone 17 Pro: After a month with the iPhone 16 Pro, here's what I'd like to see next iPhone 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max design upgrades For the past few weeks, we have been hearing about the iPhone 17 Pro model design change with a new camera module design resembling Google Pixel 9 Pro models. While it's very uncertain and unlikely for Apple to use a horizontal camera island, however, if we are waiting for a big design change then this might be it. Recently tipster who goes by the name Majin Bu shared renders of the iPhone 17 Pro model, which showcases a new camera island, however, the cameras were placed similarly to previous generation models. It was also revealed the camera island will be made up of aluminium, whereas, the rest of the rear panel will be glass. Also read: iPhone 17 Pro tipped for a major display upgrade- Here's what we know so far Now, a Chinese publication known as My Drivers has tipped the front view of the iPhone 17 Pro model, featuring a narrower Dynamic Island. In an early leak, analyst Jeff Pu reported that Apple may bring new Face ID technology that will significantly reduce the size of Dynamic Island. Now the new tipped image confirms the same with new new-looking Dynamic Island and slimmer bezels. Therefore, these are some major design changes which will likely be introduced later in 2025. If you are curious about the new face ID technology, then Apple is expected to use metalens which are a type of optical lens that takes less space than traditional lenses. To confirm these claims we may have to wait a little longer for the launch. One more thing! We are now on WhatsApp Channels! Follow us there so you never miss any updates from the world of technology. ‎To follow the HT Tech channel on WhatsApp, click here to join now!Brazil’s Bolsonaro planned and participated in coup plot, police report alleges

Hull City v Sheffield Wednesday player ratings from game featuring a surprise star performerNEW YORK (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump’s lawyers formally asked a judge Monday to throw out his hush money criminal conviction , arguing that continuing the case would present unconstitutional “disruptions to the institution of the Presidency.“ In a filing made public Tuesday, Trump’s lawyers told Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan that anything short of immediate dismissal would undermine the transition of power, as well as the “overwhelming national mandate” granted to Trump by voters last month. They also cited President Joe Biden’s recent pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, who had been convicted of tax and gun charges . “President Biden asserted that his son was ‘selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted,’ and ‘treated differently,’” Trump’s legal team wrote. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, they claimed, had engaged in the type of political theater “that President Biden condemned.” Prosecutors will have until Dec. 9 to respond. They have said they will fight any efforts to dismiss the case but have indicated a willingness to delay the sentencing until after Trump’s second term ends in 2029. In their filing Monday, Trump’s attorneys dismissed the idea of holding off sentencing until Trump is out of office as a “ridiculous suggestion.” Following Trump’s election victory last month, Merchan halted proceedings and indefinitely postponed his sentencing, previously scheduled for late November, to allow the defense and prosecution to weigh in on the future of the case. He also delayed a decision on Trump’s prior bid to dismiss the case on immunity grounds. Trump has been fighting for months to reverse his conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal a $130,000 payment to porn actor Stormy Daniels to suppress her claim that they had sex a decade earlier. He says they did not and denies any wrongdoing. The defense filing was signed by Trump lawyers Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, who represented Trump during the trial and have since been selected by the president-elect to fill senior roles at the Justice Department. Taking a swipe at Bragg and New York City, as Trump often did throughout the trial, the filing argues that dismissal would also benefit the public by giving him and “the numerous prosecutors assigned to this case a renewed opportunity to put an end to deteriorating conditions in the City and to protect its residents from violent crime.” Clearing Trump, the lawyers added, would also allow him to “to devote all of his energy to protecting the Nation.” Merchan hasn’t yet set a timetable for a decision. He could decide to uphold the verdict and proceed to sentencing, delay the case until Trump leaves office, wait until a federal appeals court rules on Trump’s parallel effort to get the case moved out of state court or choose some other option. An outright dismissal of the New York case would further lift a legal cloud that at one point carried the prospect of derailing Trump’s political future. Last week, special counsel Jack Smith told courts that he was withdrawing both federal cases against Trump — one charging him with hoarding classified documents at his Florida estate, the other with scheming to overturn the 2020 presidential election he lost — citing longstanding Justice Department policy that shields a president from indictment while in office. The hush money case was the only one of Trump’s four criminal indictments to go to trial, resulting in a historic verdict that made him the first former president to be convicted of a crime. Prosecutors had cast the payout as part of a Trump-driven effort to keep voters from hearing salacious stories about him. Trump’s then-lawyer Michael Cohen paid Daniels. Trump later reimbursed him, and Trump’s company logged the reimbursements as legal expenses — concealing what they really were, prosecutors alleged. Trump has said the payments to Cohen were properly categorized as legal expenses for legal work. A month after the verdict, the Supreme Court ruled that ex-presidents can’t be prosecuted for official acts — things they did in the course of running the country — and that prosecutors can’t cite those actions to bolster a case centered on purely personal, unofficial conduct. Trump’s lawyers cited the ruling to argue that the hush money jury got some improper evidence, such as Trump’s presidential financial disclosure form, testimony from some White House aides and social media posts made during his first term. Prosecutors disagreed and said the evidence in question was only “a sliver” of their case. If the verdict stands and the case proceeds to sentencing, Trump’s punishments would range from a fine to probation to up to four years in prison — but it’s unlikely he’d spend any time behind bars for a first-time conviction involving charges in the lowest tier of felonies. Because it is a state case, Trump would not be able to pardon himself once he returns to office.

They argue continuing the case would present unconstitutional 'disruptions to the institution of the Presidency.'Published 10:56 pm Sunday, December 29, 2024 By Joshua Windus Georgia Southwestern English professor Blue Argo shared recollections of her efforts in the campaign to elect Jimmy Carter president. While Argo stated that she was not a member of the Peanut Brigade, she did have the opportunity to campaign for Carter at a crucial time and place. Argo had just gotten accepted into graduate school at the University of Iowa before the election. “Since I was going to Iowa, I offered to help in any way I could. Future President Carter and his staff got really excited about that because they had a plan in place.” Argo states that she had a premonition of Carter’s candidacy. “I guess I was a senior, and this [was] before he ever announced that he was gonna run.” Argo told how she dreamed of a Carter presidency. “I had a dream in which there was a fife and drummer boy and President Carter and the flag was flowing behind them. And I woke up, and I told everybody President Carter is gonna be the next President, and everybody just laughed at me.” She told how at the time, there was no indication that Carter was planning to run. “But he did run, and they got very excited about the idea that I was gonna be in Iowa and so connected me with people that they were putting in place in Iowa.” Argo told of conferring with Hamilton Jordan and Jody Powell, along with Tim Kraft. “I got involved with the Johnson County democrats. I started the Carter for President Club at the University of Iowa and was president.” Argo shared details about her introduction to politics. “We met in places in Johnson County quite a bit. We met in Des Moines. We did the caucus thing. I really got kind of soured on politics because I saw the backroom kind of wheeling and dealing that people did.” She shared the focus of their campaign efforts. “When there were political rallies where various candidates would come for forums, we went to those things and talked to people about Carter. I really had a huge impact on the voting population that I talked to, because I knew him.” Argo told how the campaign efforts progressed. “I gave speeches in all kind of places, and speeches at some of these conventions. And then we had the Jefferson Jackson day dinner. We knew this was a big deal because there was always a straw poll. It was the first indication in the nation which candidate was in the lead. We had campaigned hard. Tim Kraft was there and then the Carter’s showed up. Carter won the straw poll handily.” She also shared a memory of how her personal connection with Carter helped with campaigning. Argo recalled talking to one potential voter who was dismissive of her support for Carter. “A woman said ‘yeah sure you know him, and that’s why you want, you say you want, to vote for him. And I said, ‘no ma’am, I know him and I still think he would be. . . the best candidate for president.’ I saw that had an effect on the people standing around me. They all did a double take. And so, you know, just little moments like that, I knew I made an impact.” For more stories about Jimmy Carter please go to www.americustimesrecorder.com/ category/jimmy-carter/But it is not the largest prize a person has won in this country. Here are the 10 biggest UK lottery winners – all from EuroMillions draws – and what some of them did with their fortunes. – Anonymous, £195,707,000 A UK ticket-holder scooped the record EuroMillions jackpot of £195 million on July 19 2022 – the biggest National Lottery win of all time. – Joe and Jess Thwaite, £184,262,899.10 Joe and Jess Thwaite, from Gloucester, scooped a then record-breaking £184,262,899 with a Lucky Dip ticket for the draw on May 10 2022. At the time, Joe was a communications sales engineer, and Jess ran a hairdressing salon with her sister. – Unclaimed ticket holder, £177 million Tuesday’s winner is wealthier than former One Direction member Harry Styles and heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua, who are both worth £175 million, according to the latest Sunday Times Rich List. Players have been urged to check their tickets to see if they can claim the prize. – Anonymous, £170,221,000 The fourth biggest winner of the National Lottery to date scooped £170 million in October 2019, after matching all the numbers in a Must Be Won draw. – Colin and Chris Weir, £161,653,000 Colin and Chris Weir, from Largs, North Ayrshire, bagged their historic winnings in July 2011, making them the biggest UK winners at the time. Colin used £2.5 million of his fortune to invest in his beloved Partick Thistle Football Club, which led to one of the stands at the stadium being named after him. He later acquired a 55% shareholding in the club, which was to be passed into the hands of the local community upon his death. He died in December 2019, aged 71. The couple also set up the Weir Charitable Trust in 2013 and donated £1 million to the Scottish independence referendum in 2014. They divorced in the same year as Colin’s death. – Adrian and Gillian Bayford, £148,656,000 Adrian and Gillian won 190 million euros in a EuroMillions draw in August 2012, which came to just over £148 million. The couple bought a Grade II listed estate in Cambridgeshire, complete with cinema and billiards room, but it was sold in 2021, some years after the pair divorced, as reported by The Mirror. – Anonymous, £123,458,008 The seventh biggest National Lottery winner won a Superdraw rollover jackpot in June 2019, and decided not to go public with their success. – Anonymous, £122,550,350 After nine rollovers, one lucky anonymous ticket-holder bagged more than £122 million in April 2021. – Anonymous, £121,328,187 Another of the UK’s top 10 lottery winners found their fortune through a Superdraw jackpot rollover, this time in April 2018. – Frances and Patrick Connolly, £114,969,775 Former social worker and teacher Frances set up two charitable foundations after she and her husband won almost £115 million on New Year’s Day 2019. She estimates that she has already given away £60 million to charitable causes, as well as friends and family. She considers helping others to be an addiction, saying: “It gives you a buzz and it’s addictive. I’m addicted to it now.”

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Researchers find compromised indoor air in homes following Marshall FirePresident Katerina Sakellaropoulou extended holiday greetings to Greeks abroad, recognizing their vital role in preserving Greece’s ideals and promoting its cultural heritage worldwide. “The Greek State is grateful for your contributions in maintaining our values and advancing our heritage,” Sakellaropoulou said. “Your achievements in science, business and culture inspire us and strengthen Greece’s international presence.” Sakellaropoulou also addressed global challenges, noting, “As we enter 2025, we face geopolitical tensions and social challenges. Greece, committed to international law, continues to build bridges of friendship with other nations while safeguarding its national rights.” She emphasized the diaspora’s influence in bolstering Greece’s global standing, adding, “Your initiatives and energy play a key role in reinforcing Greece’s position worldwide.” Concluding her message, Sakellaropoulou expressed hope for continued collaboration with the Greek diaspora, wishing all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year filled with health and success.

Beyond Bank Australia leverages Cognizant's expertise to modernize IT infrastructure and enhance operational resilience. SYDNEY and TEANECK, N.J. , Dec. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) has announced a collaboration with Beyond Bank Australia , one of Australia's largest customer-owned banks, to help revolutionize the digital banking experience. The collaboration aims to enhance operational resilience, streamline processes and improve customer experience through the implementation of innovative technology solutions. Cognizant's engagement is expected to uplift Beyond Bank's End User Compute (EUC) teams, automate patching processes, enable self-service and extend the value of existing licenses. These initiatives aim to create an even more resilient and secure environment for Beyond Bank's operations. Additionally, this collaboration seeks to modernize the bank's IT infrastructure, establish a Security Operations Centre (SOC) and strengthen vendor assurance frameworks to help align with the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) standards. Beyond Bank's digital transformation focuses on several key workstreams, including cloud and API architecture modernization and an enterprise-wide Windows 11 migration. These integrations will be designed to be flexible, scalable and secure technology ecosystems that enable the introduction of new products with enhanced speed to market, further preparing Beyond Bank for future growth. Cognizant will also help develop a comprehensive data and information management strategy for Beyond Bank. Leveraging AI, this strategy aims to optimize structured data from core banking systems and organize unstructured data from knowledge management sources for organization-wide insights, enabling more tailored services for its customers. Leveraging Cognizant's deep banking expertise, Beyond Bank will introduce new products and services designed to better serve a younger demographic, while simultaneously enhancing the overall service experience for all customers. "Our partnership with Cognizant is pivotal in advancing our digital transformation," said Stevie-Ann Dovico , Chief Information Officer, Beyond Bank Australia. "Their expertise allows us to modernize our IT infrastructure and enhance security, aligning with our values as a customer-owned bank. Cognizant's comprehensive approach makes them the ideal partner to help us better serve our customers." "Beyond Bank is a lighthouse client for us in the customer-owned banking sector," said Rob Marchiori , Australia Country Manager at Cognizant. "By enhancing their digital capabilities, we will help them provide better services to their customers and support paving the way for a resilient banking model that addresses current and future market demands." The customer-owned banking sector is navigating increased regulatory burdens, economic pressures, and the need for digital transformation. With increased cost-to-income ratios and net interest margins, banks need to modernize operations and enhance customer engagement through innovative technology. The collaboration between Beyond Bank and Cognizant highlights the importance of strategic partnerships in supporting innovation and maintaining service standards in the evolving financial sector. About Cognizant Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) engineers modern businesses. We help our clients modernize technology, reimagine processes, and transform experiences to stay ahead in our fast-changing world. Together, we're improving everyday life. See how at www.cognizant.com or @cognizant. About Beyond Bank Australia Beyond Bank is one of Australia's largest customer-owned banks with branches and offices in New South Wales , South Australia , Western Australia , ACT and Victoria . We partner with more than 6000 community organisations around the nation to create and return value for our customers and communities. Beyond Bank is a B Corp, a business that is certified as meeting high standards of social and environmental impact, ensuring their practices benefit people, communities and our planet. To learn more, visit beyondbank.com.au For more information, contact: globalcommunications@cognizant.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/beyond-bank-and-cognizant-join-forces-to-lead-the-future-of-customer-owned-banking-302328856.html SOURCE Cognizant Technology Solutions

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How Trump’s bet on voters electing him managed to silence some of his legal woesIncentive programs meant to catalyze the adoption of greener, cleaner, low carbon technologies, such as we’ve seen with solar and EVs, and most recently e-bikes, can be effective if done right, but when a cookie-cutter one-size-fits-all approach is used, they can end up being not very cost-effective or efficient in moving the needle toward the desired outcome. A recent study analyzing the “consumer purchase response” to existing e-bike incentive programs suggests that these programs could be more equitable, cost-effective, and efficient if they begin with the end in mind. In essence, starting out with clear and well-defined goals for incentive programs is necessary for designing, funding, and implementing them with maximum effectiveness. The study, “ Consumer purchase response to e-bike incentives: Results from a nationwide stated preference study , ” was published in the journal ScienceDirect this past April, with the authors stating in its Abstract that it is “among the first to experimentally analyze prospective purchase behavior of e-bike consumers to assess price sensitivity, behavioral response to incentives, and consumer value of e-bike attributes.” “Purchase incentives offset the price of an e-bike for consumers, with the goal of increasing e-bike adoption and ownership. While programs initially offered incentives of $300 or less, amounts have progressively increased over time. The 2023 legislative cycle has seen a notable expansion in state- and province-level purchase assistance programs, as well as the re-introduction of a proposed federal tax credit known as the “E-BIKE” Act. Despite the growing funding allocated to e-bike purchase incentives, there is little evidence as to their cost-effectiveness or optimal design.” Some of the results of the study are pretty straightforward, and perhaps no-brainers: Point-of-purchase discounts are more cost-effective than rebates or tax credits for stimulating additional e-bike adoption Cost-effective e-bike incentives require equivalent amounts provided across standard and cargo e-bike types, and require the largest incentives be provided to those in the 200–300% FPL (Federal Poverty Level) income range However, one finding that really stood out was this (emphasis added): “[W]e find that even when e-bike incentive programs are designed cost-effectively, the costs per ton of CO2 reduced still far exceed those of alternatives or reasonable social costs of GHG emissions . We conclude that the argument for allocating public funds for e-bike incentive programs must be based on the co-benefits of e-bike travel and ownership, and not solely on GHG reduction. If you don’t have time (or access) to read the full text, an article published on GovTech about the study offers a great summary and some additional insights direct from the authors. For example, “it takes about $4,000 worth of incentives to induce that extra e-bike purchase,” which far exceeds the benefits gained by displacing carbon emissions due to the adoption of that e-bike. As we are likely to see a lot of political pushback on any and all government incentive programs for cleaner transport and energy in the US in coming years, using the findings of this study — and others like it that may follow — could be a key element in designing and funding effective programs in the near future. CleanTechnica's Comment Policy LinkedIn WhatsApp Facebook Bluesky Email RedditCHICAGO, Dec. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Board of Directors of Oil-Dri Corporation of America (NYSE: ODC) today declared quarterly cash dividends of $0.155 per share of the Company's Common Stock and $0.1165 per share of the Company's Class B Stock. The dividend amount has been proportionately reduced to reflect the anticipated two-for-one stock split, in the form of a stock dividend, where stockholders of record at the close of business on December 20, 2024, the record date of the stock split, will receive one additional share of Common Stock for every share of Common Stock held on the record date, and one additional share of Class B Stock for every share of Class B Stock held on the record date. Oil-Dri expects the additional shares will be distributed after market close on January 3, 2025. The cash dividends will be payable on March 7, 2025 to stockholders of record at the close of business on February 21, 2025. Oil-Dri has paid cash dividends continuously each year since 1974 and has increased dividends annually for twenty-one consecutive years. The Company's press release outlining its performance for the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 will be issued after the close of the U.S. stock market on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Oil-Dri will host an earnings discussion via a live webcast on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. Central Time. Participation details will be posted on the Company's website's Events page approximately one week prior to the call. About Oil-Dri Corporation of America Oil-Dri Corporation of America ("Oil-Dri”) is a leading manufacturer and supplier of specialty sorbent products for the pet care, animal health and nutrition, fluids purification, agricultural ingredients, sports field, industrial and automotive markets. Oil-Dri is vertically integrated which enables the Company to efficiently oversee every step of the process from research and development to supply chain to marketing and sales. With over 80 years of experience, the Company continues to fulfill its mission to Create Value from Sorbent Minerals . To learn more about the Company, please visit oildri.com . Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release may contain forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that are based on our current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about our future performance, our business, our beliefs and our management's assumptions. In addition, we, or others on our behalf, may make forward-looking statements in other press releases or written statements, or in our communications and discussions with investors and analysts in the normal course of business through meetings, webcasts, phone calls and conference calls. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "expect,” "outlook,” "forecast,” "would,” "could,” "should,” "project,” "intend,” "plan,” "continue,” "believe,” "seek,” "estimate,” "anticipate,” "may,” "assume,” "potential,” "strive,” and similar references to future periods. Such statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially, including, but not limited to, those described in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and from time to time in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Should one or more of these or other risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, intended, expected, believed, estimated, projected, planned or otherwise expressed in any forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Except to the extent required by law, we do not have any intention or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements after the distribution of this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, or otherwise. Contact: Leslie A. Garber Director of Investor Relations Oil-Dri Corporation of America [email protected] (312) 321-1515 This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.The rumor mill is churning with whispers of Apple potentially reviving its beloved AirPort networking technology, this time integrated into new iterations of the HomePod and Apple TV. This move could mark a significant shift in Apple’s home strategy, offering users a more unified and seamless smart home ecosystem. While Apple officially discontinued its AirPort routers in 2018, leaving many users disappointed, the potential return of this technology has sparked excitement and speculation among tech enthusiasts and Apple aficionados alike. This potential revival is not just about bringing back a popular product; it’s about addressing the evolving needs of modern home s. With the increasing number of connected devices and the rise of smart home technology, a robust and reliable Wi-Fi network is more critical than ever. By integrating AirPort-like capabilities into the HomePod and Apple TV, Apple could provide a comprehensive solution for users seeking to optimize their home networks. This strategy could potentially simplify network management, improve device connectivity, and enhance overall user experience within the Apple ecosystem. Why Did Apple Discontinue AirPort in the First Place? To understand this potential revival, we need to look back at why Apple abandoned the AirPort lineup in the first place. While AirPort routers were praised for their user-friendly design and seamless integration with Apple devices, they faced increasing competition from dedicated networking companies like Netgear, Asus, and TP-Link. These companies often offered more advanced features, wider customization options, and more aggressive pricing strategies. From my own experience, I loved the simplicity of AirPort routers. Setting up my network was a breeze compared to the often convoluted interfaces of other brands. However, as my home network grew with more devices and demanding applications like online gaming and 4K streaming, I started to feel limited by the AirPort’s capabilities. Ultimately, I switched to a mesh Wi-Fi system that provided better coverage and performance throughout my home. It seems Apple recognized this shift in the market. Instead of trying to compete head-to-head with networking giants , they chose to focus on their core strengths: software and ecosystem integration. By discontinuing AirPort, Apple could dedicate more resources to enhancing its software platforms and developing new products like the HomePod and Apple TV. The Rise of Mesh Wi-Fi and the Smart Home In the years since Apple exited the router market, mesh Wi-Fi systems have become increasingly popular. These systems use multiple nodes placed throughout your home to create a seamless and extended Wi-Fi network, eliminating dead spots and providing consistent coverage. This technology is particularly well-suited for larger homes or those with complex layouts. Moreover, the growing adoption of smart home devices has further emphasized the need for robust Wi-Fi networks. From smart lights and thermostats to security cameras and voice assistants, these devices rely on a stable internet connection to function reliably. A mesh network can provide the necessary bandwidth and coverage to support a growing ecosystem of interconnected devices. How Could AirPort be Integrated into HomePod and Apple TV? Rumors suggest that Apple could leverage the HomePod and Apple TV as central hubs for a mesh Wi-Fi network. These devices are already strategically placed throughout many homes, making them ideal candidates for extending Wi-Fi coverage. Imagine a scenario where your new HomePod mini not only acts as a smart speaker but also as a Wi-Fi extender, seamlessly expanding the network coverage to previously hard-to-reach areas. Similarly, your Apple TV could serve as the central hub, managing network traffic and optimizing performance for streaming and gaming. This approach aligns with Apple’s strategy of creating a tightly integrated ecosystem . By combining the functionality of a mesh Wi-Fi system with the existing capabilities of the HomePod and Apple TV, Apple could offer a compelling solution for users invested in its ecosystem. Potential Benefits of an AirPort Revival What are the Challenges and Considerations? While the prospect of an AirPort revival is exciting, there are also challenges and considerations that Apple needs to address: What Do Users Think? Online discussions on platforms like Reddit and Quora reveal a mix of excitement and apprehension among users. Many express nostalgia for the simplicity and reliability of AirPort routers, while others are concerned about potential limitations and pricing. Some users are hopeful that Apple will learn from its past experience and address the shortcomings of the original AirPort lineup. Others are skeptical, wondering if Apple can truly compete with dedicated networking companies that have years of experience in this field. The overall sentiment, however, seems to be positive. Many users believe that Apple’s focus on user experience and ecosystem integration could give them an edge in the market. They are eager to see what Apple has in store and how this potential revival could shape the future of home networking. The potential return of AirPort technology, integrated into the HomePod and Apple TV, represents an intriguing possibility for Apple and its users. It reflects the evolving needs of modern homes and the growing importance of robust Wi-Fi networks in the age of smart home technology. While challenges and uncertainties remain, the prospect of a more unified and seamless home network experience within the Apple ecosystem is undoubtedly appealing. Whether this rumor materializes into reality remains to be seen, but it has certainly captured the attention of the tech world and sparked a renewed interest in Apple’s approach to home networking.

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49ers Starting QB Brandon Allen In Week 12Netflix getting set to air NFL on Christmas Day

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. But Christmas is on a Wednesday when games usually aren't played. 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 be at 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. How many Christmas games will Netflix carry in the next two seasons? 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. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks climbed after market superstar Nvidia and another round of companies said they’re making even fatter profits than expected. The S&P 500 pulled 0.5% higher Thursday after flipping between modest gains and losses several times in the morning. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 1.1%, and the Nasdaq composite edged up less than 0.1%. Banks, smaller companies and other areas of the stock market that tend to do best when the economy is strong helped lead the way, while bitcoin briefly broke above $99,000. Crude oil, meanwhile, continued to rise. Treasury yields edged higher in the bond market. THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below. NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks are climbing Thursday after market superstar Nvidia and another round of companies said they’re making even fatter profits than expected. The S&P 500 was pulling 0.7% higher, as of 2:45 p.m. Eastern time, after flipping between modest gains and losses several times in the morning. Banks, smaller companies and other areas of the stock market that tend do best when the economy is strong helped lead the way, while bitcoin briefly broke above $99,000. Crude oil, meanwhile, continued to rise. The Dow Jones Industrial Average jumped 532 points, or 1.2%, and the Nasdaq composite gained 0.2%. Nvidia's rise of 1.4% was the strongest force pushing the S&P 500 upward after yet again beating analysts’ estimates for profit and revenue. It also gave a forecast for revenue in the current quarter that topped most analysts’ expectations thanks to voracious demand for its chips used in artificial-intelligence technology. Its stock initially sank in afterhours trading Wednesday following the release of the results. Some investors said the market might have been looking for Nvidia's revenue forecast to surpass expectations by even more. But its stock recovered in premarket trading Thursday, and Wedbush analyst Dan Ives said it was another “flawless” profit report provided by Nvidia and CEO Jensen Huang, whom Ives calls “the Godfather of AI.” How Nvidia’s stock performs has tremendous impact because it’s quickly grown into Wall Street’s most valuable company at roughly $3.6 trillion. Its meandering up and down through the day dragged the S&P 500 and other indexes back and forth. The frenzy around AI is sweeping up other stocks, and Snowflake jumped 32.3% after reporting stronger results for the latest quarter than analysts expected. The company, whose platform helps customers get a better view of all their silos of data and use AI, also reported stronger revenue growth than expected. BJ’S Wholesale Club rose 9.1% after likewise delivering a bigger profit than expected. That may help calm worries about how resilient U.S. shoppers can remain, given high prices across the economy and still-high interest rates. A day earlier, Target tumbled after reporting sluggish sales in the latest quarter and giving a dour forecast for the holiday shopping season. It followed Walmart , which gave a much more encouraging outlook. Nearly 90% of the stocks in the S&P 500 were also rising, and the gains were even bigger among smaller companies. The Russell 2000 index of smaller stocks jumped a market-leading 1.9%. Google’s parent company, Alphabet, helped keep indexes in check. It fell 5.5% after U.S. regulators asked a judge to break up the tech giant by forcing it to sell its industry-leading Chrome web browser. In a 23-page document filed late Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Justice called for sweeping punishments that would include restrictions preventing Android from favoring its own search engine. Regulators stopped short of demanding Google sell Android but left the door open to it if the company’s oversight committee continues to see evidence of misconduct. Drops for other Big Tech stocks also weighed on the market, including a 2.4% slide for Amazon. In stock markets abroad, shares of India’s Adani Enterprises plunged 22.6% Thursday after the U.S. charged founder Gautam Adani, 62, in a federal indictment with securities fraud and conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud. The businessman and one of the world’s richest people is accused of duping investors by concealing that his company’s huge solar energy project on the subcontinent was being facilitated by an alleged bribery scheme. Indexes elsewhere in Asia and Europe were mixed. In the crypto market, bitcoin eclipsed $99,000 for the first time before easing back to roughly $98,250, according to CoinDesk. It’s more than doubled so far this year, and its climb has accelerated since Election Day. President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to make the country “the crypto capital of the planet” and create a “strategic reserve” of bitcoin. Bitcoin also got a boost after Gary Gensler, the chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission who has pushed for more protection for crypto investors, said he would step down in January . Bitcoin and related investments, of course, have a notorious history of big price swings in both directions. MicroStrategy, a company that's been raising cash expressly to buy bitcoin, saw an early gain of 14.6% for its stock on Thursday quickly disappear. It was most recently down 10.7%. In the oil market, a barrel of benchmark U.S. crude rose 2% to bring its gain for the week to 4.8%. Brent crude, the international standard, climbed 1.8%. Oil has been rising amid escalations in the Russia-Ukraine war. In the bond market, Treasury yields edged higher following some mixed reports on the U.S. economy. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.43% from 4.41% late Wednesday. One report said fewer U.S. workers applied for unemployment benefits last week in the latest signal that the job market remains solid. Another report, though, said manufacturing in the mid-Atlantic region unexpectedly shrank. Sales of previously occupied homes, meanwhile, strengthened last month by more than expected. AP Business Writers Matt Ott and Yuri Kageyama contributed.Luke Littler has had a stellar year after reaching the final of the World Darts Championship 2024 plus being awarded the BBC's Youngs Sports Personality of the Year . So it's quite right that the 17-year-old is revelling in his success. Luke has reportedly splashed out on a £6,000 per month to rent a mansion in Cheshire. According to The Mirror, Luke is now living in the fancy property located on what is known locally as 'Millionaire's Road'. This year, the sportsman is said to have made almost £600,000 so far from his darts career. Luke bagged a £200,000 prize for reaching the final of the World Darts Championship and a further £275,000 for winning his first Premier League title. Luke and his family have left their humble two-bedroom semi-detached house behind in favour of a sprawling home that features swanky interiors, an indoor pool and a cinema room. Let's take a look... Christmas celebrity door displays that will blow your mind David Beckham has fans swooning in cheeky 'home' video - but all is not as it seems Jamie Oliver's three wildly different Christmas trees at £6m mansion 1 / 4 The listing on Rightmove states that the home comes with pool and garden maintenance including the flat rent. It also says that the five-bedroom house is "finished to an uncompromising standard, with intelligent design, impressive technology, top of the range fixtures and fittings and superb leisure facilities"." It's been "carefully and cleverly redesigned to optimise and enhance space, creating a perfect balance of luxury finish and ease of living". This photo shows how stunning the kitchen is. The fully fitted, state of the art cooking area comes with a dark, modern interior with a light oak parquet flooring. There are multiple ovens, a huge American-style fridge and a breakfast bar topped with monochrome quartz marble. There are also four chairs resting underneath the breakfast bar in a gorgeous teal and gold design. To the right of one stool, we can also spot a wine fridge. 2 / 4 The living room is also impressive in size. While it's not known if the property came furnished or whether the family has decided to place their own furniture inside to make it their own – the photo offers an idea of how the room can be utilised. A large five-person sofa sits in the middle of the room facing the TV which has been placed into the wall. The lounge also has a gorgeous cream carpet and two skylights so plenty of daylight can flood the room. 3 / 4 Perhaps the biggest draw of the home, however, is the wow-worthy indoor pool. The full-size swimming pool is nestled in a large room facing out into the huge garden. The room also has plenty of seating and loungers around the pool plus a workout area just off to the side, making the entire pool house resemble a luxury gym. 4 / 4 Meanwhile, Luke recently celebrated when his wish was granted by former Manchester United player David Beckham. Man-U mad Luke was chuffed when Becks "texted him" to say good luck ahead of the SPOTY ceremony which took place this week. Luke then made a cheeky comment that David hadn't yet followed him on Instagram, but then shared a screenshot of David after he followed the darts pro alongside a love-heart emoji. Of his Young SPOTY award, Luke said: "It just goes to show how well I've done this year. "But not only for myself changed the sport of darts [with] all the other professionals. But I have played a big part in it."Incentive programs meant to catalyze the adoption of greener, cleaner, low carbon technologies, such as we’ve seen with solar and EVs, and most recently e-bikes, can be effective if done right, but when a cookie-cutter one-size-fits-all approach is used, they can end up being not very cost-effective or efficient in moving the needle toward the desired outcome. A recent study analyzing the “consumer purchase response” to existing e-bike incentive programs suggests that these programs could be more equitable, cost-effective, and efficient if they begin with the end in mind. In essence, starting out with clear and well-defined goals for incentive programs is necessary for designing, funding, and implementing them with maximum effectiveness. The study, “ Consumer purchase response to e-bike incentives: Results from a nationwide stated preference study , ” was published in the journal ScienceDirect this past April, with the authors stating in its Abstract that it is “among the first to experimentally analyze prospective purchase behavior of e-bike consumers to assess price sensitivity, behavioral response to incentives, and consumer value of e-bike attributes.” “Purchase incentives offset the price of an e-bike for consumers, with the goal of increasing e-bike adoption and ownership. While programs initially offered incentives of $300 or less, amounts have progressively increased over time. The 2023 legislative cycle has seen a notable expansion in state- and province-level purchase assistance programs, as well as the re-introduction of a proposed federal tax credit known as the “E-BIKE” Act. Despite the growing funding allocated to e-bike purchase incentives, there is little evidence as to their cost-effectiveness or optimal design.” Some of the results of the study are pretty straightforward, and perhaps no-brainers: Point-of-purchase discounts are more cost-effective than rebates or tax credits for stimulating additional e-bike adoption Cost-effective e-bike incentives require equivalent amounts provided across standard and cargo e-bike types, and require the largest incentives be provided to those in the 200–300% FPL (Federal Poverty Level) income range However, one finding that really stood out was this (emphasis added): “[W]e find that even when e-bike incentive programs are designed cost-effectively, the costs per ton of CO2 reduced still far exceed those of alternatives or reasonable social costs of GHG emissions . We conclude that the argument for allocating public funds for e-bike incentive programs must be based on the co-benefits of e-bike travel and ownership, and not solely on GHG reduction. If you don’t have time (or access) to read the full text, an article published on GovTech about the study offers a great summary and some additional insights direct from the authors. For example, “it takes about $4,000 worth of incentives to induce that extra e-bike purchase,” which far exceeds the benefits gained by displacing carbon emissions due to the adoption of that e-bike. As we are likely to see a lot of political pushback on any and all government incentive programs for cleaner transport and energy in the US in coming years, using the findings of this study — and others like it that may follow — could be a key element in designing and funding effective programs in the near future. CleanTechnica's Comment Policy LinkedIn WhatsApp Facebook Bluesky Email Reddit

New York, NY, Nov. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bleichroeder Acquisition Corp. I (Nasdaq: BACQU) (the " Company ”) announced today that, commencing December 2, 2024, holders of the units sold in the Company's initial public offering may elect to separately trade the Company's Class A ordinary shares and rights included in the units. The Class A ordinary shares and rights that are separated will trade on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbols "BACQ” and "BACQR,” respectively. Those units not separated will continue to trade on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol "BACQU.” This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities of the Company, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. About Bleichroeder Acquisition Corp. I Bleichroeder Acquisition Corp. I is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, amalgamation, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company may pursue an acquisition opportunity in any business or industry. The Company's primary focus, however, will be on businesses in the technology, media and telecommunications ("TMT”) sector as well as sectors that are being transformed via technology adoption. Forward-Looking Statements This press release may include, and oral statements made from time to time by representatives of the Company may include, "forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Statements regarding possible business combinations and the financing thereof, and related matters, as well as all other statements other than statements of historical fact included in this press release are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, words such as "anticipate,” "believe,” "continue,” "could,” "estimate,” "expect,” "intend,” "may,” "might,” "plan,” "possible,” "potential,” "predict,” "project,” "should,” "would” and similar expressions, as they relate to us or our management team, identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of management, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, the Company's management. Actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors detailed in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (" SEC ”). All subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are qualified in their entirety by this paragraph. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company's registration statement and prospectus for the Company's initial public offering filed with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law. Company contact: Bleichroeder Acquisition Corp. I 1345 Avenue of the Americas, 47th Floor New York, NY 10105 Attn: Robert Folino (o) 212.984.3835 [email protected]

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Jimmy Carter: Many evolutions for a centenarian ‘citizen of the world’HATTIESBURG, Miss. (AP) — Denijay Harris scored 29 points as Southern Miss beat Marshall 68-66 on Saturday in a Sun Belt Conference opener. Harris also contributed 10 rebounds for the Golden Eagles (5-7). Christian Watson scored 10 points while shooting 4 for 12 (1 for 5 from 3-point range) and 1 of 3 from the free-throw line and added five rebounds. Harris made one of two free throws for a 68-66 lead with 16 seconds left and Watson's steal with four seconds left sealed the win. Obinna Anochili-Killen led the way for the Thundering Herd (7-6) with 15 points, seven rebounds and three blocks. Mikal Dawson added 14 points and six rebounds for Marshall. Dezayne Mingo also had 14 points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

NoneUN Resolution 1701 is at the heart of the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire deal. What is it?

okbet+philippines The Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up for their Week 12 contest against the Carolina Panthers, and they will be looking to put together a bounce back performance after suffering their first loss of the season against the Buffalo Bills in Week 11. With that in mind, all eyes will be on star tight end Travis Kelce. While the Chiefs didn't play well enough as a whole to come out on top against the Bills, Kelce didn't exactly enjoy a productive day at the office. In fact, he hauled in just two catches for eight yards, making it one of the worst games of his highly prolific career. Kelce has a great chance to get back on track against the lowly Panthers, and he's been putting in the work during practice throughout the week in an effort to right the ship. However, he surprised fans by wearing shorts and a short sleeve t-shirt to the team's practice on Friday, even though the temperature was only 42 degrees. "The cold never bothered me anyway." - Travis Kelce, probably. Current temp in KC: 42° #ChiefsKingdom pic.twitter.com/eKAS0tcUU1 Winter is rolling in quickly, and with temperatures dropping across the country, many folks are switching to long sleeve shirts and pants to combat the cold. Kelce doesn't seem to be too bothered by it, though, as he is still dressed like it's summer, while the majority of his teammates coaches are bundled up. Temperatures will soon be hitting lows that make 42 degrees look scorching hot in Kansas City, but it's not exactly the type of weather you'd be wearing shorts and a t-shirt for, especially if you are working outside all day at practice like Kelce is. © Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images Playing in cold games is simply a part of the job in the NFL, especially for a team like the Chiefs. So in a way, Kelce may simply be trying to get himself ready for the upcoming cold front that is set to arrive with winter, or he may not believe 42 degrees to be all that cold. Regardless, it's great to see Kelce is locked in on his preparation for Kansas City's next game, especially considering how poorly things went against Buffalo. Kickoff for their contest against the Panthers is set for 1 P.M. EST on Sunday, Nov. 24th. Related: Travis Kelce's 2024 Struggles Draw Strong 'Double Team' Message from Ex-NFL Pro Bowler

ISTANBUL Turkish Airlines' new routes to Australia are vital for the development and expansion of the country’s relations with Türkiye, said the consul-general of Australia in Istanbul. "We not only have people-to-people links that are refreshed and brought closer; the number of people that can travel directly is much further expanded," Tony Huber told Anadolu. "You’re seeing a lot of tourists both ways. You’re seeing a lot of businesspeople that are making their way now, and you’re also seeing a general business expanding between the two in different areas, services related," he said. Huber predicted that as familiarity between the two countries grows, prospective investment opportunities will surpass those of the past. At the end of November, Turkish Airlines began flying to Sydney — the air carrier's second destination in the country after Melbourne. Huber said Turkish Airlines’ connections offer the biggest network in the world, adding: "I think that Australian businesses see the opportunities." ⁠Trade relations On bilateral trade and economic ties, Huber said the trade level between Australia and Türkiye is rather modest, and that reflects the distance between the two countries and the fact that there are many other countries that Australia is supplying that are closer to it. But that paradigm is changing, and now the parties are seeing around 2-3 billion Australian dollars ($1.28 billion to $1.92 billion) in trade, and it is roughly balanced. "Last year, we had an increase in agriculture exports, and that reflected the fact that there were competitive and seasonal products that Türkiye needed at the time, and Türkiye has products evenly based across a wide range that are being sent to Australia," he said. There are also new areas of business that Türkiye is engaging with Australia in within the services area, and one of those is aviation, he underlined. He said cargo flights are also in the cards for business relations between Türkiye and Australia. Turkish Airlines is aware of the available slot range, and despite some residual restrictions delaying shipments in certain areas, the skies are largely open, offering numerous opportunities and substantial capacity, he emphasized. Turkish Airlines is serving many routes that Australia has not, he said. He recalled that Australia has a new airport, Western Sydney Airport, which is due to open next year that is interested along with the country's other major airports in supplying air freight. "So we have air freight connectivity. We have all the features," he added. ⁠Istanbul hub for Australian businesses Türkiye is advanced in manufacturing and services, and it is taking its strength into new areas of business that it was not doing before and reduces its reliance on other countries, Huber said. Australia is also a great supplier of food and commodities, and it is a particularly fortunate country in terms of supplies of some of the critical minerals that are needed to help fuel the change to green-friendly process to economies all around the world, he stressed. "I think that certainly Türkiye and Australia have complementarity," he noted. On the other hand, Türkiye has become an important market and Australia has some very great strengths, he said. "We hope that we can develop new links with Türkiye, not only in the supply of the minerals themselves, but in the services and the knowledge that we have," he added. Last year, Australia had only hundreds of students from Türkiye, but since the direct flights were implemented, the country has seen an expansion to around 6,000 or 7,000 students from Türkiye, he said. "Istanbul as a hub, I think it will come on the agenda a lot more than had been in the past. "Old shipping is much slower, but the connection that Istanbul offers, with I think around 340 destinations, really does open up opportunities for Australian businesses to link to those other parts of the world," he added. Touching on energy field, Huber said there are great opportunities between the two countries, as Australia has vast reserves of gas and Türkiye has gas pipelines which pass through it. "So we are all participants in the supply chain of the energy market," he said. For both countries' efficiency, the technology can be shared, he added.

Mumbai: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will test the waters for the central bank digital currency (CBDC) with its own officials. The central bank recently decided to credit a slice of allowances that it reimburses to CBDC wallets of RBI officers. Perceived as a move by central banks to offer a safer and smarter payment option, as well as counter cryptocurrencies, CBDC is digital form of fiat currency — a sovereign paper currency issued digitally by a country’s monetary authority. ET Year-end Special Reads Take That: The gamechanger weapon's India acquired in 2024 10 big-bang policy moves Modi government made in 2024 How governments tried to rein in the social media beast According to an internal communique to senior officials dated December 27, “As a part of scaling up of CBDC retail pilot and to encourage the use of CBDC wallet by the officers of the bank (RBI), it has been decided to credit the reimbursement amount towards internet/data charges to the CBDC wallets of officers...” A user manual for updating the CBDC wallets has been circulated. RBI launched the pilot for retail digital- or e Rs in December 2022. Unlike conventional deposits, CBDC is the liability of the central bank. When an account holder converts some money in a savings account into CBDC, the bank’s deposit diminishes by that amount. Additionally, CBDC fetches no interest returns (like normal bank deposits) to the owner of the digital wallet. As a result, neither the lenders nor customers have been particularly interested in CBDC till now. 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View Program Data Science SQL for Data Science along with Data Analytics and Data Visualization By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI and Analytics based Business Strategy By - Tanusree De, Managing Director- Accenture Technology Lead, Trustworthy AI Center of Excellence: ATCI View Program Web Development A Comprehensive ASP.NET Core MVC 6 Project Guide for 2024 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Digital Marketing Masterclass by Pam Moore By - Pam Moore, Digital Transformation and Social Media Expert View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI-Powered Python Mastery with Tabnine: Boost Your Coding Skills By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Office Productivity Mastering Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and 365 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Digital marketing - Wordpress Website Development By - Shraddha Somani, Digital Marketing Trainer, Consultant, Strategiest and Subject Matter expert View Program Office Productivity Mastering Google Sheets: Unleash the Power of Excel and Advance Analysis By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Web Development Mastering Full Stack Development: From Frontend to Backend Excellence By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Finance Financial Literacy i.e Lets Crack the Billionaire Code By - CA Rahul Gupta, CA with 10+ years of experience and Accounting Educator View Program Data Science SQL Server Bootcamp 2024: Transform from Beginner to Pro By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program While a few banks have taken steps similar to what RBI is planning, CBDC as a currency for payments has not taken off. Besides, with the wide adoption of UPI and use of mobile phones for shopping and fund transfers, CBDC never quite captured retail users’ imagination. Nonetheless, government as well as senior Reserve Bank officials have come out with statements from time to time to stoke up interest in CBDC, which most admit could make cross-border fund transfers quicker and cheaper, if the technical and macro-implications can be addressed. Against this backdrop, the RBI is taking baby steps to popularise CBDC with its latest move. It is unclear whether more reimbursements could be credited to CBDC wallets in future if the present decision goes down well among employees. The move comes a fortnight after the change of guard at the regulator. “Users would not mind if they can freely use UPI and payment modes like Gpay to make payments from CBDC wallets, or convert unspent digital rupee in wallets back into savings accounts,” said a banker. “However, it would be at the back of their minds that there would be no interest on the wallet amounts. Plus, most banks would not actively encourage depositors to open CBDC wallets.” The CBDC wallets are linked to user accounts with banks, which would only act as aggregators. Amid the interest and discussions on CBDC, monetary authorities and bodies like the International Monetary Fund have pointed out the possible repercussions of such a digital currency — that is not part of bank deposits but represents a direct claim on central banks. Some observations made are as follows: CBDC could trigger flight to safety from retail bank deposits in periods of market stress. Volatility in CBDC demand could affect central banks’ ability to forecast liquidity. While CBDC could dramatically increase speed and cut cost in cross-border flows, it could cause volatile capital flows and faster transmission of financial shock across markets. The advent of CBDC in a big way would require central banks to fine tune their monetary policy operations. Nominations for ET MSME Awards are now open. The last day to apply is December 31, 2024. Click here to submit your entry for any one or more of the 22 categories and stand a chance to win a prestigious award. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )Otu, Ododo, AbdulRazaq flag off 2024 carnival in Calabar, seek prosperity for allSwinney: I'd consider Australia-style ban on social media use for teenagers under the age of 16

Share this Story : Major passion for World Juniors: 13th tournament for superfan Art Benjamin Copy Link Email X Reddit Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Breadcrumb Trail Links News Local News Sports World Juniors Local Sports Major passion for World Juniors: 13th tournament for superfan Art Benjamin The Winnipeg resident admits he has spent "a small fortune" attending Canadian team games at the world junior tournament over the past couple of decades. Get the latest from Marlo Glass straight to your inbox Sign Up Author of the article: Marlo Glass Published Dec 28, 2024 • Last updated 4 minutes ago • 2 minute read Join the conversation You can save this article by registering for free here . Or sign-in if you have an account. Art Benjamin has travelled around the world to attend more than a dozen IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships since 2005. He's one of thousands of superfans in Ottawa for the 2025 tournament, hoping to see Canada regain its top spot after a disappointing fifth-place finish last year. Photo by Marlo Glass / Postmedia Article content Don’t ask Art Benjamin how much money he’s spent or how many kilometres he’s travelled to more than a dozen IIHF World Junior Ice Hockey Championships. Article content We apologize, but this video has failed to load. Try refreshing your browser, or tap here to see other videos from our team . Major passion for World Juniors: 13th tournament for superfan Art Benjamin Back to video Article content He says he’d attend every year if only ticket prices weren’t so high. “I’ve spent a small fortune,” he admits, “but it’s worth it.” The first year he attended was 2005, when the tournament was hosted in Grand Forks, N.D. There he saw Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin face off as juniors amid a National Hockey League lockout. Advertisement 2 Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles from Elizabeth Payne, David Pugliese, Andrew Duffy, Bruce Deachman and others. Plus, food reviews and event listings in the weekly newsletter, Ottawa, Out of Office. Unlimited online access to Ottawa Citizen and 15 news sites with one account. Ottawa Citizen ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles from Elizabeth Payne, David Pugliese, Andrew Duffy, Bruce Deachman and others. Plus, food reviews and event listings in the weekly newsletter, Ottawa, Out of Office. Unlimited online access to Ottawa Citizen and 15 news sites with one account. Ottawa Citizen ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Sign In or Create an Account Email Address Continue or View more offers If you are a Home delivery print subscriber, online access is included in your subscription. Activate your Online Access Now Article content Benjamin was also in Vancouver the next year and in Ottawa in 2009, where many of Canada’s players went on to become NHL household names, including John Tavares, Jamie Benn and P.K. Subban. Saskatoon was next. Then Buffalo, N.Y. In 2013, Benjamin made the trip to Ufa, Russia, a round trip of more than 16,000 kilometres from his home in Winnipeg. Since then he has also been to Helsinki, Montreal, Vancouver and Ostrava, Czech Republic. Next year, the world junior tournament will be in Saint Paul, Minn., just a 750-kilometre trip down the highway from Winnipeg. In all, this year’s tournament in Ottawa is the 13th Benjamin has attended. Superfan Art Benjamin shows off his jersey listing all of the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships he’s attended since 2005. This year, he’s one of thousands of superfans descending on the nation’s capital, with the hopes of seeing Canada reclaim gold after a disappointing fifth-place finish last year. He keeps coming back, Benjamin says, because of the friends he’s made along the way and the parade of talented Canadian team members developing into tomorrow’s NHL superstars. “They’re kids, they’re just kids and they’re going to the NHL,” he said, “and you get to see them progress. It’s just crazy.” Advertisement 3 Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content In his travels, he’s made friends from coast to coast. “We see all our friends here,” he said. “And we travel together all over the world.” Benjamin says he prefers to support the IIHF tournament instead of the NHL because of the chance to see promising young players hone their talents before they step up to the big show. The 2005 tournament, for example, saw a powerhouse Canadian team with a star-studded roster filled with players who may have already been playing in the NHL if not for the lockout and drawn-out negotiations that ultimately led to a league-wide salary cap. That year Canada beat Russia in 6-1 in a marquee final, bringing home the gold medal to kick off a five-year tournament winning streak. At this year’s Boxing Day showdown between Canada and Finland at the Canadian Tire Centre, dozens of other superfans donned jerseys bearing the names of legends from Team Canadas of yesteryear: Gretzky, Crosby, Iginla and Bedard. Other rabid Canadian fans wore red morph suits (the full-body Lycra coverings that make people look like cartoon characters) and flew Canadian flags, and at least two spectators dressed as Santa Claus. The Boxing Day game produced a 4-0 win for Canada against Finland, but the following night the home side lost to Latvia in a shocking 3-2 upset capped by an eight-round shootout. Canada next faces off against Germany on Dec. 29, and the tournament hosts will play the defending-champion United States at the Canadian Tire Centre on New Year’s Eve. Article content Share this article in your social network Share this Story : Major passion for World Juniors: 13th tournament for superfan Art Benjamin Copy Link Email X Reddit Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Comments You must be logged in to join the discussion or read more comments. Create an Account Sign in Join the Conversation Postmedia is committed to maintaining a lively but civil forum for discussion. Please keep comments relevant and respectful. Comments may take up to an hour to appear on the site. You will receive an email if there is a reply to your comment, an update to a thread you follow or if a user you follow comments. Visit our Community Guidelines for more information. Trending Canadian military fears maintenance issues will plague equipment sent to Latvia Defence Watch Canada suffers two big losses against Latvia at world juniors World Juniors Caldwell: These 2024 photos of Ottawa expose its struggles and small wins News Victim of Christmas Day homicide remembered as 'a beautiful person' News The Arena at TD Place, as it stands, is hosting its last World Juniors — and that's good for Ottawa Sports Read Next Latest National Stories Featured Local SavingsDayle Haddon, a pioneering former "Sports Illustrated" model, actor, and activist who challenged age discrimination by returning to the industry as a widow, has passed away due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. The 76 year old was found deceased in a second-floor bedroom of a house in Solebury Township, Pennsylvania, on Friday morning following a call to emergency dispatchers about an unconscious person. Also affected was a 76 year old man, later identified as Walter J. Blucas from Erie, who is now in critical condition in hospital. High levels of carbon monoxide were detected at the property, and on Saturday, township police confirmed that a defective flue and exhaust pipe on a gas heating system were to blame for the deadly leak. Two medics required hospital treatment for exposure to the toxic gas, while a police officer received treatment at the scene. In her heyday as a model, Haddon graced the covers of prestigious magazines such as Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Elle, and Esquire during the 1970s and 1980s, including featuring in the 1973 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. Her acting career spanned approximately two dozen films from the 1970s through the 1990s, with credits listed on IMDb.com, such as the 1994 film "Bullets Over Broadway," which starred John Cusack and was directed by Woody Allen. Haddon, who initially left the modelling world after giving birth to her daughter, Ryan, in the mid-1970s, was forced to return to work following her husband's death in 1991. However, she found the industry less welcoming this time around: "They said to me, ‘At 38, you’re not viable,’" Haddon revealed to The New York Times in 2003. Taking a job at an advertising agency, Haddon began approaching cosmetic companies, highlighting the growing market for beauty products aimed at ageing baby boomers. She eventually secured contracts with Clairol, Estée Lauder and L’Oreal, promoting their anti-ageing products for over a decade. In 2008, Haddon founded WomenOne, an organisation dedicated to improving educational opportunities for girls and women in marginalised communities, including Rwanda, Haiti and Jordan. Haddon's daughter, Ryan, paid tribute to her mother in a social media post, describing her as "everyone’s greatest champion. An inspiration to many. "A pure heart. A rich inner life. Touching so many lives. A life well lived. Rest in Light, Mom," she said.

By BILL BARROW, Associated Press ATLANTA (AP) — Jimmy Carter, the peanut farmer who won the presidency in the wake of the Watergate scandal and Vietnam War, endured humbling defeat after one tumultuous term and then redefined life after the White House as a global humanitarian, has died. He was 100 years old. The longest-lived American president died on Sunday, more than a year after entering hospice care , at his home in the small town of Plains, Georgia, where he and his wife, Rosalynn, who died at 96 in November 2023 , spent most of their lives, The Carter Center said. Businessman, Navy officer, evangelist, politician, negotiator, author, woodworker, citizen of the world — Carter forged a path that still challenges political assumptions and stands out among the 45 men who reached the nation’s highest office. The 39th president leveraged his ambition with a keen intellect, deep religious faith and prodigious work ethic, conducting diplomatic missions into his 80s and building houses for the poor well into his 90s. “My faith demands — this is not optional — my faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can, with whatever I have to try to make a difference,” Carter once said. A moderate Democrat, Carter entered the 1976 presidential race as a little-known Georgia governor with a broad smile, outspoken Baptist mores and technocratic plans reflecting his education as an engineer. His no-frills campaign depended on public financing, and his promise not to deceive the American people resonated after Richard Nixon’s disgrace and U.S. defeat in southeast Asia. “If I ever lie to you, if I ever make a misleading statement, don’t vote for me. I would not deserve to be your president,” Carter repeated before narrowly beating Republican incumbent Gerald Ford, who had lost popularity pardoning Nixon. Carter governed amid Cold War pressures, turbulent oil markets and social upheaval over racism, women’s rights and America’s global role. His most acclaimed achievement in office was a Mideast peace deal that he brokered by keeping Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin at the bargaining table for 13 days in 1978. That Camp David experience inspired the post-presidential center where Carter would establish so much of his legacy. Yet Carter’s electoral coalition splintered under double-digit inflation, gasoline lines and the 444-day hostage crisis in Iran. His bleakest hour came when eight Americans died in a failed hostage rescue in April 1980, helping to ensure his landslide defeat to Republican Ronald Reagan. Carter acknowledged in his 2020 “White House Diary” that he could be “micromanaging” and “excessively autocratic,” complicating dealings with Congress and the federal bureaucracy. He also turned a cold shoulder to Washington’s news media and lobbyists, not fully appreciating their influence on his political fortunes. “It didn’t take us long to realize that the underestimation existed, but by that time we were not able to repair the mistake,” Carter told historians in 1982, suggesting that he had “an inherent incompatibility” with Washington insiders. Carter insisted his overall approach was sound and that he achieved his primary objectives — to “protect our nation’s security and interests peacefully” and “enhance human rights here and abroad” — even if he fell spectacularly short of a second term. Ignominious defeat, though, allowed for renewal. The Carters founded The Carter Center in 1982 as a first-of-its-kind base of operations, asserting themselves as international peacemakers and champions of democracy, public health and human rights. “I was not interested in just building a museum or storing my White House records and memorabilia,” Carter wrote in a memoir published after his 90th birthday. “I wanted a place where we could work.” That work included easing nuclear tensions in North and South Korea, helping to avert a U.S. invasion of Haiti and negotiating cease-fires in Bosnia and Sudan. By 2022, The Carter Center had declared at least 113 elections in Latin America, Asia and Africa to be free or fraudulent. Recently, the center began monitoring U.S. elections as well. Carter’s stubborn self-assuredness and even self-righteousness proved effective once he was unencumbered by the Washington order, sometimes to the point of frustrating his successors . He went “where others are not treading,” he said, to places like Ethiopia, Liberia and North Korea, where he secured the release of an American who had wandered across the border in 2010. “I can say what I like. I can meet whom I want. I can take on projects that please me and reject the ones that don’t,” Carter said. He announced an arms-reduction-for-aid deal with North Korea without clearing the details with Bill Clinton’s White House. He openly criticized President George W. Bush for the 2003 invasion of Iraq. He also criticized America’s approach to Israel with his 2006 book “Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid.” And he repeatedly countered U.S. administrations by insisting North Korea should be included in international affairs, a position that most aligned Carter with Republican President Donald Trump. Among the center’s many public health initiatives, Carter vowed to eradicate the guinea worm parasite during his lifetime, and nearly achieved it: Cases dropped from millions in the 1980s to nearly a handful. With hardhats and hammers, the Carters also built homes with Habitat for Humanity. The Nobel committee’s 2002 Peace Prize cites his “untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.” Carter should have won it alongside Sadat and Begin in 1978, the chairman added. Carter accepted the recognition saying there was more work to be done. “The world is now, in many ways, a more dangerous place,” he said. “The greater ease of travel and communication has not been matched by equal understanding and mutual respect.” Carter’s globetrotting took him to remote villages where he met little “Jimmy Carters,” so named by admiring parents. But he spent most of his days in the same one-story Plains house — expanded and guarded by Secret Service agents — where they lived before he became governor. He regularly taught Sunday School lessons at Maranatha Baptist Church until his mobility declined and the coronavirus pandemic raged. Those sessions drew visitors from around the world to the small sanctuary where Carter will receive his final send-off after a state funeral at Washington’s National Cathedral. The common assessment that he was a better ex-president than president rankled Carter and his allies. His prolific post-presidency gave him a brand above politics, particularly for Americans too young to witness him in office. But Carter also lived long enough to see biographers and historians reassess his White House years more generously. His record includes the deregulation of key industries, reduction of U.S. dependence on foreign oil, cautious management of the national debt and notable legislation on the environment, education and mental health. He focused on human rights in foreign policy, pressuring dictators to release thousands of political prisoners . He acknowledged America’s historical imperialism, pardoned Vietnam War draft evaders and relinquished control of the Panama Canal. He normalized relations with China. “I am not nominating Jimmy Carter for a place on Mount Rushmore,” Stuart Eizenstat, Carter’s domestic policy director, wrote in a 2018 book. “He was not a great president” but also not the “hapless and weak” caricature voters rejected in 1980, Eizenstat said. Rather, Carter was “good and productive” and “delivered results, many of which were realized only after he left office.” Madeleine Albright, a national security staffer for Carter and Clinton’s secretary of state, wrote in Eizenstat’s forward that Carter was “consequential and successful” and expressed hope that “perceptions will continue to evolve” about his presidency. “Our country was lucky to have him as our leader,” said Albright, who died in 2022. Jonathan Alter, who penned a comprehensive Carter biography published in 2020, said in an interview that Carter should be remembered for “an epic American life” spanning from a humble start in a home with no electricity or indoor plumbing through decades on the world stage across two centuries. “He will likely go down as one of the most misunderstood and underestimated figures in American history,” Alter told The Associated Press. James Earl Carter Jr. was born Oct. 1, 1924, in Plains and spent his early years in nearby Archery. His family was a minority in the mostly Black community, decades before the civil rights movement played out at the dawn of Carter’s political career. Carter, who campaigned as a moderate on race relations but governed more progressively, talked often of the influence of his Black caregivers and playmates but also noted his advantages: His land-owning father sat atop Archery’s tenant-farming system and owned a main street grocery. His mother, Lillian , would become a staple of his political campaigns. Seeking to broaden his world beyond Plains and its population of fewer than 1,000 — then and now — Carter won an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating in 1946. That same year he married Rosalynn Smith, another Plains native, a decision he considered more important than any he made as head of state. She shared his desire to see the world, sacrificing college to support his Navy career. Carter climbed in rank to lieutenant, but then his father was diagnosed with cancer, so the submarine officer set aside his ambitions of admiralty and moved the family back to Plains. His decision angered Rosalynn, even as she dived into the peanut business alongside her husband. Carter again failed to talk with his wife before his first run for office — he later called it “inconceivable” not to have consulted her on such major life decisions — but this time, she was on board. “My wife is much more political,” Carter told the AP in 2021. He won a state Senate seat in 1962 but wasn’t long for the General Assembly and its back-slapping, deal-cutting ways. He ran for governor in 1966 — losing to arch-segregationist Lester Maddox — and then immediately focused on the next campaign. Carter had spoken out against church segregation as a Baptist deacon and opposed racist “Dixiecrats” as a state senator. Yet as a local school board leader in the 1950s he had not pushed to end school segregation even after the Supreme Court’s Brown v. Board of Education decision, despite his private support for integration. And in 1970, Carter ran for governor again as the more conservative Democrat against Carl Sanders, a wealthy businessman Carter mocked as “Cufflinks Carl.” Sanders never forgave him for anonymous, race-baiting flyers, which Carter disavowed. Ultimately, Carter won his races by attracting both Black voters and culturally conservative whites. Once in office, he was more direct. “I say to you quite frankly that the time for racial discrimination is over,” he declared in his 1971 inaugural address, setting a new standard for Southern governors that landed him on the cover of Time magazine. His statehouse initiatives included environmental protection, boosting rural education and overhauling antiquated executive branch structures. He proclaimed Martin Luther King Jr. Day in the slain civil rights leader’s home state. And he decided, as he received presidential candidates in 1972, that they were no more talented than he was. In 1974, he ran Democrats’ national campaign arm. Then he declared his own candidacy for 1976. An Atlanta newspaper responded with the headline: “Jimmy Who?” The Carters and a “Peanut Brigade” of family members and Georgia supporters camped out in Iowa and New Hampshire, establishing both states as presidential proving grounds. His first Senate endorsement: a young first-termer from Delaware named Joe Biden. Yet it was Carter’s ability to navigate America’s complex racial and rural politics that cemented the nomination. He swept the Deep South that November, the last Democrat to do so, as many white Southerners shifted to Republicans in response to civil rights initiatives. A self-declared “born-again Christian,” Carter drew snickers by referring to Scripture in a Playboy magazine interview, saying he “had looked on many women with lust. I’ve committed adultery in my heart many times.” The remarks gave Ford a new foothold and television comedians pounced — including NBC’s new “Saturday Night Live” show. But voters weary of cynicism in politics found it endearing. Carter chose Minnesota Sen. Walter “Fritz” Mondale as his running mate on a “Grits and Fritz” ticket. In office, he elevated the vice presidency and the first lady’s office. Mondale’s governing partnership was a model for influential successors Al Gore, Dick Cheney and Biden. Rosalynn Carter was one of the most involved presidential spouses in history, welcomed into Cabinet meetings and huddles with lawmakers and top aides. The Carters presided with uncommon informality: He used his nickname “Jimmy” even when taking the oath of office, carried his own luggage and tried to silence the Marine Band’s “Hail to the Chief.” They bought their clothes off the rack. Carter wore a cardigan for a White House address, urging Americans to conserve energy by turning down their thermostats. Amy, the youngest of four children, attended District of Columbia public school. Washington’s social and media elite scorned their style. But the larger concern was that “he hated politics,” according to Eizenstat, leaving him nowhere to turn politically once economic turmoil and foreign policy challenges took their toll. Carter partially deregulated the airline, railroad and trucking industries and established the departments of Education and Energy, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. He designated millions of acres of Alaska as national parks or wildlife refuges. He appointed a then-record number of women and nonwhite people to federal posts. He never had a Supreme Court nomination, but he elevated civil rights attorney Ruth Bader Ginsburg to the nation’s second highest court, positioning her for a promotion in 1993. He appointed Paul Volker, the Federal Reserve chairman whose policies would help the economy boom in the 1980s — after Carter left office. He built on Nixon’s opening with China, and though he tolerated autocrats in Asia, pushed Latin America from dictatorships to democracy. But he couldn’t immediately tame inflation or the related energy crisis. And then came Iran. After he admitted the exiled Shah of Iran to the U.S. for medical treatment, the American Embassy in Tehran was overrun in 1979 by followers of the Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Negotiations to free the hostages broke down repeatedly ahead of the failed rescue attempt. The same year, Carter signed SALT II, the new strategic arms treaty with Leonid Brezhnev of the Soviet Union, only to pull it back, impose trade sanctions and order a U.S. boycott of the Moscow Olympics after the Soviets invaded Afghanistan. Hoping to instill optimism, he delivered what the media dubbed his “malaise” speech, although he didn’t use that word. He declared the nation was suffering “a crisis of confidence.” By then, many Americans had lost confidence in the president, not themselves. Carter campaigned sparingly for reelection because of the hostage crisis, instead sending Rosalynn as Sen. Edward M. Kennedy challenged him for the Democratic nomination. Carter famously said he’d “kick his ass,” but was hobbled by Kennedy as Reagan rallied a broad coalition with “make America great again” appeals and asking voters whether they were “better off than you were four years ago.” Reagan further capitalized on Carter’s lecturing tone, eviscerating him in their lone fall debate with the quip: “There you go again.” Carter lost all but six states and Republicans rolled to a new Senate majority. Carter successfully negotiated the hostages’ freedom after the election, but in one final, bitter turn of events, Tehran waited until hours after Carter left office to let them walk free. At 56, Carter returned to Georgia with “no idea what I would do with the rest of my life.” Four decades after launching The Carter Center, he still talked of unfinished business. “I thought when we got into politics we would have resolved everything,” Carter told the AP in 2021. “But it’s turned out to be much more long-lasting and insidious than I had thought it was. I think in general, the world itself is much more divided than in previous years.” Still, he affirmed what he said when he underwent treatment for a cancer diagnosis in his 10th decade of life. “I’m perfectly at ease with whatever comes,” he said in 2015 . “I’ve had a wonderful life. I’ve had thousands of friends, I’ve had an exciting, adventurous and gratifying existence.” ___ Former Associated Press journalist Alex Sanz contributed to this report.

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Jimmy Carter, the Georgia peanut farmer who as US president struggled with a bad economy and the Iran hostage crisis but brokered peace between Israel and Egypt has died, according to US media. He was 100. or signup to continue reading A Democrat, he served as president from January 1977 to January 1981 after defeating incumbent Republican President Gerald Ford in the 1976 US election. Carter was swept from office four years later in an electoral landslide as voters embraced Republican challenger Ronald Reagan, the former actor and California governor. Carter lived longer after his term in office than any other US president. Along the way, he earned a reputation as a better former president than he was a president - a status he readily acknowledged. His one-term presidency was marked by the highs of the 1978 Camp David accords between Israel and Egypt, bringing some stability to the Middle East. But it was dogged by an economy in recession, persistent unpopularity and the embarrassment of the Iran hostage crisis that consumed his final 444 days in office. In recent years, Carter experienced several health issues including melanoma that spread to his liver and brain. Carter decided to receive hospice care in February 2023 instead of undergoing additional medical intervention. His wife, Rosalynn Carter, died in November 2023, at age 96. He looked frail when he attended her memorial service and funeral in a wheelchair. Carter left office profoundly unpopular but worked energetically for decades on humanitarian causes. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 in recognition of his "untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development." The 1979 Egypt-Israel peace treaty, based on the 1978 Camp David accords, ended a state of war between the two neighbours. Carter brought Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin to the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland for talks. Later, as the accords seemed to be unravelling, Carter saved the day by flying to Cairo and Jerusalem for personal shuttle diplomacy. The treaty provided for Israeli withdrawal from Egypt's Sinai Peninsula and establishment of diplomatic relations. Begin and Sadat each won a Nobel Peace Prize in 1978. By the 1980 election, the overriding issues were double-digit inflation, interest rates that exceeded 20 per cent and soaring gas prices, as well as the Iran hostage crisis that brought humiliation to America. These issues marred Carter's presidency and undermined his chances of winning a second term. On November 4, 1979, revolutionaries devoted to Iran's Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini had stormed the US Embassy in Tehran, seized the Americans present and demanded the return of the ousted shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who was backed by the United States and was being treated in a US hospital. The American public initially rallied behind Carter. But his support faded in April 1980 when a commando raid failed to rescue the hostages, with eight US soldiers killed in an aircraft accident in the Iranian desert. Carter's final ignominy was that Iran held the 52 hostages until minutes after Reagan took his oath of office on January 20, 1981, to replace Carter, then released the planes carrying them to freedom. DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. WEEKDAYS Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. WEEKLY The latest news, results & expert analysis. WEEKDAYS Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. WEEKLY Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. WEEKLY Love footy? We've got all the action covered. WEEKLY Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. WEEKLY Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. WEEKDAYS Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. TWICE WEEKLY Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. WEEKLY Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. TWICE WEEKLY Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. AS IT HAPPENS Be the first to know when news breaks. DAILY Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! DAILY Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily! Advertisement AdvertisementSaudi Arabia scored a major win in its campaign to attract major sports events to the kingdom when it was formally appointed as the 2034 World Cup host on Wednesday. Still, many questions remain about the tournament as well as the 2030 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Spain, Portugal and Morocco, with three games in South America. Here are some of the key issues that need to be answered over the next decade: Saudi Arabia proposes 15 stadiums — eight still on paper — in five cities: Eight in the capital Riyadh, four in the Red Sea port city Jeddah, and one each in Abha, Al Khobar and Neom, the planned futuristic mega-project. Each would have at least 40,000 seats for World Cup games. The opening game and final are set for a 92,000-seat venue planned in Riyadh. Some designs are vivid. In Neom, the stadium is planned 350 meters (yards) above street level and one near Riyadh is designed to be atop a 200-meter cliff with a retractable wall of LED screens. Saudi Arabia aims to host all 104 games, though there has been speculation that some games could be played in neighboring or nearby countries. Surely not in the traditional World Cup period of June-July, when temperatures in Saudi Arabia routinely exceed 40 Celsius (104 degrees). FIFA moved the Qatar-hosted World Cup to November-December 2022, though those dates were not loved by most European clubs and leagues whose seasons were interrupted. Also, that slot is complicated in 2034 by the holy month of Ramadan through mid-December and Riyadh hosting the multi-sport Asian Games. January 2034 could be a possibility even though that would be just before the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. The International Olympic Committee has signaled it won’t be opposed to back-to-back major events. In an interview with The Associated Press on Wednesday, Saudi World Cup bid official Hammad Albalawi said the precise dates of the tournament are up the world soccer body. “That’s a decision by FIFA. We stand ready to be part of this conversation. But ultimately it’s a FIFA decision together with the confederations,” Albalawi said. Giving more rights and freedoms to women in a traditionally conservative society is fundamental to Saudi messaging around the modernization program known as Vision 2030. The kingdom decided in 2017 to let women attend sports events, initially in major cities and in family zones separate from men-only sections. By 2034, at the promised pace of social reforms, female fans should not be restricted. Saudi Arabia launched a women’s professional soccer league in 2022 with players joining from clubs in Europe. They face no restrictions playing in shorts and with hair uncovered. The Saudi prohibition of alcohol is clear and understood before FIFA signs any sponsor deals for 2034. But will there be any exceptions? The alcohol issue was problematic for the World Cup in Qatar because the expectation was created that beer sales would be allowed at stadiums even before Qatar won its bid in 2010. One year later, FIFA extended a long-time deal to have Budweiser as the official World Cup beer through 2022. Qatar then backtracked on that promise three days before the first game, causing confusion and the sense of a promise broken. In Qatar, alcohol was served only at luxury suites at the stadiums. Visitors could also have a drink in some hotel bars. But Saudi Arabia has even stricter rules on alcohol — and there is no indication that will change. Albalawi noted that Saudi Arabia has successfully hosted dozens of sports events where alcohol wasn't served. “We’re creating a safe and secure family environment for fans to bring their families into our stadiums,” he said. Saudi promises to reform and enforce labor laws, and fully respect migrant workers, have been accepted by FIFA but face broad skepticism from rights groups and trade unions. A formal complaint is being investigated by the U.N.-backed International Labor Organization. Protecting the migrant workers needed to build stadiums and other tournament projects — a decade after it was a defining issue for Qatar — looms as a signature challenge for Saudi Arabia. Saudi-Israeli relations had been improving when FIFA all but gave the 2034 World Cup to the kingdom on Oct. 4 last year. Three days later Hamas attacked Israel and diplomacy got more complicated. Any soccer federation bidding to host a FIFA tournament accepts a basic principle that whichever team qualifies is welcome. That did not stop Indonesia putting up barriers last year to Israel coming for the men’s Under-20 World Cup. Indonesia does not have formal diplomatic relations with Israel which had qualified through a European tournament nine months before the issue flared. FIFA moved the entire tournament to Argentina and the Israeli team reached the semifinals. Israel played at the 1970 World Cup but has never advanced through qualifying in Europe, where it has been a member of UEFA for 30 years. Europe should have 16 places in the 48-team World Cup in Saudi Arabia. Most of the attention at the FIFA Congress on Wednesday was on the Saudi decision, but the soccer body and its members also formally approved the hosts of the 2030 World Cup — the most spread out and longest ever. One game each in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, the original host in 1930, will be played from June 8-9. The tournament resumes four days later for the other 101 games shared between Spain, Portugal and Morocco. Six countries, three continents, multiple languages and currencies. Fans traveling on planes, trains, automobiles and boats across about 14 kilometers (10 miles) of water between Spain and Morocco. The final is due on July 21, 2030 and a decision on where it will be played could cause some tension between the host countries. Morocco wants it in the world’s biggest soccer venue — the planned 115,000-seat King Hassan II Stadium in Casablanca. Spain, meanwhile, has proposed to host the final in either of the remodeled home stadiums of club giants Real Madrid or Barcelona. ___ Associated Press writer Baraa Anwer in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, contributed to this report.

Bills defense out to prove against high-scoring Lions that it's better than its dud vs. Rams

The crypto market is gearing up for the next big movers. Five digital currencies stand out as essential considerations for the upcoming quarter. Among them is a promising token built on the Solana blockchain that's attracting a lot of attention. Discover which assets could potentially redefine portfolios and why they shouldn't be overlooked. Catzilla Wrecks Chaos: The Meme Coin for Warriors of Crypto In a world where financial freedom feels out of reach, a new opportunity emerges— Catzilla ! Born from the frenzy of meme culture and set for explosive growth , this is the meme coin investors have been waiting for! A legendary cat warrior with lives to spare, Catzilla offers you 14 chances to grab the power-packed $CATZILLA token before it goes public. Imagine leveling up your stash from Stage 1 to Stage 14, where your gains soar up to 700%! Catzilla evolves as the presale progresses, bringing you closer to financial victory with every step. But beware, fellow warriors—the clock is ticking, and only the swift and the daring will secure their share of Catzilla’s unstoppable might . Claim your share before Catzilla stomps the competition flat! The crypto world’s gone barking mad for years, but now it’s time for cats to claw their way to the top. MEW and Popcat are the latest feline sensations proving that dogs might fetch headlines, but cats bring home the gains. MEW: Purring into the top 15 meme coins, this clever kitty pulled off a 103.7% climb in just three months Popcat: This one didn’t just pounce—it soared, delivering a jaw-dropping 157.44% surge. These aren’t just one-off flukes. Cats are on the prowl , staking their claim in the meme coin kingdom. And if you think MEW and Popcat are impressive, wait until Catzilla roars onto the scene. Forget chasing tails—this is where the real action is. Catzilla is here to destroy the old systems that hold you back. It’s time to build a new world where you, the warriors of the crypto space, rise up and claim what’s yours . With every stage of this presale, the forces of profit grow stronger. Time is running out, and the opportunity to join Catzilla’s army won’t last forever. The profits are set to explode , and only those brave enough to seize this moment will see their gains rise like a true anime hero’s power level . Get in now, watch Catzilla wreck the market, and bring chaos to the competition! Uniswap's UNI Token: Decentralized Governance in DeFi Uniswap's UNI token, launched in September 2020, allows holders to influence the platform's development by voting on proposals related to fee structures and token distribution. This move responded to competition from SushiSwap, with Uniswap distributing 150 million UNI tokens to past users, each receiving 400 UNI tokens valued over $1,000 at launch. Since 2018, Uniswap has operated as a decentralized exchange on the Ethereum blockchain, using an automated liquidity protocol that enables trading without an order book. Users maintain full control of their funds, and the platform's open-source nature allows free token listing. With over $3 billion in assets, Uniswap stands as the fourth-largest DeFi platform, highlighting the UNI token's significance in the current market. Shiba Inu: An Ethereum-Based Memecoin with Growing Utility Shiba Inu (SHIB) is an Ethereum-based cryptocurrency inspired by Dogecoin. Launched in August 2020 by an anonymous developer named Ryoshi, it began with a supply of 1 quadrillion tokens. Half of these tokens were sent to Ethereum co-creator Vitalik Buterin, who donated a significant portion to the India Covid Crypto Relief Fund and burned 40% of the total supply. SHIB's integration with Ethereum allows for applications like ShibaSwap, a decentralized exchange. Plans include a future NFT platform and a DAO-based governance system. This positions SHIB for broader utility in the crypto space. In the current market cycle, SHIB's expanding ecosystem adds to its appeal. Worldcoin (WLD): Advancing Global Digital Identity Through Biometrics Worldcoin (WLD) is a cryptocurrency introduced in 2023 that aims to revolutionize digital identity and financial inclusion. Co-founded by Sam Altman, it utilizes eye-scanning technology through a device called the Orb to create unique, secure digital IDs for individuals worldwide. With a fixed supply of 10 billion tokens, Worldcoin focuses on fair wealth distribution and universal access to the digital economy. It has attracted over two million users and plans significant funding to value the token at $3 billion. While privacy concerns due to biometric data use have led to investigations in several countries, Worldcoin's innovative approach positions it as a notable player in the crypto space. Understanding Raydium (RAY): A Key Player on Solana Blockchain Raydium (RAY) is the native token of Raydium, a decentralized exchange and automated market maker built on the Solana blockchain. Raydium offers fast and low-cost token swaps by leveraging Solana's high-performance network. The RAY token is used for governance, staking, and earning rewards within the platform. The technology aims to improve liquidity provision and trading efficiency in the decentralized finance ecosystem. Given Solana's growing adoption and Raydium's role in the DeFi space, RAY may have potential in the current market. However, its attractiveness depends on overall market trends and investor interest in DeFi projects. Conclusion While UNI, SHIB, WLD, and RAY offer some opportunities, their short-term potential seems limited. In contrast, Catzilla stands out as the ultimate meme coin hero aiming for financial freedom for all. With a remarkable 700% ROI potential during its presale and triple utility features, it invites crypto enthusiasts to join the fight against crypto villains. Site: Catzilla ($CATZILLA) Twitter: https://x.com/CatzillaToken Telegram: Telegram Chat Telegram News Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.

okbet. ph The suspect in the high-profile killing of a health insurance CEO that has gripped the United States graduated from an Ivy League university, reportedly hails from a wealthy family, and wrote social media posts brimming with cerebral musings. Luigi Mangione, 26, was thrust into the spotlight Monday after police revealed he is their person of interest in the brutal murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, a father of two, last week in broad daylight in Manhattan in a case that laid bare deep frustration and anger with America's privatized medical system. News of his capture in Pennsylvania -- following a tip from a McDonald's worker --triggered an explosion of online activity, with Mangione quickly amassing new followers on social media as citizen sleuths and US media tried to understand who he is. While some lauded him as a hero and lamented his arrest, others analyzed his intellectual takes in search of ideological clues. A photo on one of his social media accounts includes an X-ray of an apparently injured spine. No explicit political affiliation has emerged. Meanwhile, memes and jokes proliferated, many riffing on his first name and comparing him to the "Mario Bros." character Luigi, sometimes depicted in AI-altered images wielding a gun or holding a Big Mac. "Godspeed. Please know that we all hear you," wrote one user on Facebook. "I want to donate to your defense fund," added another. According to Mangione's LinkedIn profile, he is employed as a data engineer at TrueCar, a California-based online auto marketplace. A company spokesperson told AFP Mangione "has not been an employee of our company since 2023." Although he had been living in Hawaii ahead of the killing, he originally hails from Towson, Maryland, near Baltimore. He comes from a prominent and wealthy Italian-American family, according to the Baltimore Banner. The family owns local businesses, including the Hayfields Country Club, its website says. A standout student, Mangione graduated at the top of his high school class in 2016. In an interview with his local paper at the time, he praised his teachers for fostering a passion for learning beyond grades and encouraging intellectual curiosity. A former student who knew Mangione at the Gilman School told AFP the suspect struck him as "a normal guy, nice kid." "There was nothing about him that was off, at least from my perception," this person said, asking that their name not be used. "Seemed to just be smiling, and kind of seemed like he was a smart kid. Ended up being valedictorian, which confirmed that," the former student said. Mangione went on to attend the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, where he completed both a bachelor's and master's degree in computer science by 2020, according to a university spokesperson. While at Penn, Mangione co-led a group of 60 undergraduates who collaborated on video game projects, as noted in a now-deleted university webpage, archived on the Wayback Machine. On Instagram, where his following has skyrocketed from hundreds to tens of thousands, Mangione shared snapshots of his travels in Mexico, Puerto Rico and Hawaii. He also posted shirtless photos flaunting a six-pack and appeared in celebratory posts with fellow members of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity. However, it is on X (formerly Twitter) that users have scoured Mangione's posts for potential motives. His header photo -- an X-ray of a spine with bolts -- remains cryptic, with no public explanation. Finding a coherent political ideology has also proved elusive, though he had written a review of Ted Kaczynski's manifesto on the online site goodreads, calling it "prescient." Kaczynski, known as the Unabomber, carried out a string of bombings in the United States from 1978 to 1995, a campaign he said was aimed at halting the advance of modern society and technology. Mangione called Kaczynski "rightfully imprisoned," while also saying "'violence never solved anything' is a statement uttered by cowards and predators." According to CNN, handwritten documents recovered when Mangione was arrested included the phrase "these parasites had it coming." Mangione has also linked approvingly to posts criticizing secularism as a harmful consequence of Christianity's decline. In April, he wrote, "Horror vacui (nature abhors a vacuum)." The following month, he posted an essay he wrote in high school titled "How Christianity Prospered by Appealing to the Lower Classes of Ancient Rome." In another post from April, he speculated that Japan's low birthrate stems from societal disconnection, adding that "fleshlights" and other vaginal-replica sex toys should be banned. ia/nro/dwXavier aims to rebound from a tough week and get one more critical tune-up for a rivalry matchup when it hosts Morgan State on Tuesday night in Cincinnati. The Musketeers (7-2) were ranked No. 22 in the AP poll two weeks ago but fell out after a 25-point loss to Michigan in the Fort Myers Tip-Off tournament final on Nov. 27. Xavier then barely escaped with a 71-68 home win over South Carolina State on Dec. 1 before losing 76-72 at TCU on Thursday. Dante Maddox Jr. came off the bench to score nine points in 20 minutes on three 3-pointers against the Horned Frogs. He also grabbed six rebounds before fouling out. The Musketeers have been waiting for the Toledo transfer to add a punch to an underwhelming bench cast that many thought would be a strength for Xavier coming into the season. "I really feel like you can almost be baited into a false sense of how deep your team is because you're around guys every day and have a good, older group, which we do," Musketeers coach Sean Miller said. "You see the good in a lot of different guys. It's not until you get 8 to 10, 10 to 15 games in when you truly understand how deep your team is." Maddox hit a 3-pointer and started a fastbreak with a steal that gave Xavier a 60-54 lead with 7:28 remaining, but the Musketeers faded down the stretch and lost for the second time in three games. Maddox is averaging 4.7 points per game, while Ryan Conwell leads the team with 16.6. Tuesday's game will be the last chance for Xavier to straighten up before visiting No. 22 Cincinnati on Saturday for the teams' annual intense crosstown showdown. Morgan State (5-7) is coming off a 102-81 road loss at Bowling Green on Saturday. Preseason All-MEAC First Team selection Will Thomas led the Bears with 19 points on 8-of-15 shooting from the field, while Kameron Hobbs scored 12 points off the bench. Amahrie Simpkins made all five of his field-goal attempts to add 11 points and Wynston Tabbs had 10 points, six rebounds and six assists. Tabbs leads Morgan State in scoring this season at 16.8 points per game, while Simpkins (12.8) and Thomas (12.2) round out the Bears' double-digit scorers. The Bears have struggled away from home, losing all five road contests this season. --Field Level Media

Hillenbrand Inc. stock rises Wednesday, still underperforms marketDoha: The State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Municipality, is celebrating World Soil Day, which falls on December 5 each year. Held under the theme of rural soil care: measurement, monitoring, and management, the celebration intends to shine a spotlight on the importance of accurate data and information to figure out soil characteristics, as well as support insightful decisions on the sustainable management of soil, thereby fostering food security. The State of Qatar's participation in marking this day stems from the Qatar National Vision 2030, that seeks to achieve sustainable development, including the preservation of environment and natural resources, as long as the priority given to soil is a core part of environment protection, in addition to achieving sustainability in utilizing natural resources and reducing desertification. In addition, the Ministry of Municipality, represented by the Department of Agricultural Research, has accomplished concrete results in protecting soil and lands in Qatar from wind-induced degeneration, erosion and desertification through protecting the plant genetic resources and biodiversity, as well as the national Gene Bank. Director of the Agricultural Research Department at the Ministry of Municipality, Hamad Saket Al Shammari, stated that the Qatari genetic seed bank currently includes 1,138 plant entries, comprising many local wild plants such as Al Ghaf Sidr, Awsaj and others, as well as plants related to food and agriculture, such as tomatoes, corn, onions, et al. He highlighted that the key objective of this bank is to preserve seeds that are compatible with the soil and climate conditions in Qatar after conducting the necessary research on them. Additionally, the Department of Agricultural Research is making significant efforts in scientific research and development to optimize soil quality and increase its productivity, while leveraging various technologies, especially in light of the focus on achieving and sustaining food security, added Al Shammari. He highlighted several critical successes that have been made to protect biodiversity and soil in Qatar, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, since 2015, such as the protection of the Qatari Al Ghaf at Al Ghaf meadow in the north of Qatar, where an overall research was conducted on the site to receive the essential imprimaturs to embark on implementing an integrated plan that included fencing the area and cleaning it from harmful and invasive plants, primarily the Mesquite plant, in addition to exploring the most appropriate scientific techniques to propagate Al Ghaf seeds and recultivate its offshoots These efforts resulted in restoring the site's standard environmental criteria, where the vegetation cover density and soil coverage with plants and plant remains have increased in the summer, and subsequently the wild Al Ghaf trees have developed, with an increase in their annual seed production, after they were in a state of severe degeneration prior to taking the protection decision, Al Shammari outlined. Aisha Dasmal Al Kuwari from the Department of Agricultural Research asserted that since its inception in 2012, the Qatar Gene Bank has succeeded in studying and collating approximately 70% of local plant species in a form of seeds, along with herbaceous plants and DNA samples, emphasizing that plant genetic resources are one of the national assets with strategic and economic value, since directly or indirectly support human livelihoods and ensure stability by providing food, medicine, fodder, fibers, clothing, shelter, and energy, in addition to their crucial role in conserving the environment and preventing soil degradation and erosion. The Gene Bank pursues a sophisticated system to manage and document genetic resources in compliance with international standards, with overall data for each type logged in the international database of Qatar's Gene Bank. This database was established in 2015, in collaboration with the Arab Organization for Agricultural Development (AOAD), highlighted Al Kuwari. For his part, Biotechnology & Genetic Resources Expert at Ministry of Municipality, Dr. Elsayed M. Elazazi, indicated that the Qatari Gene Bank compiled 1,138 samples from various sites across the State of Qatar that included over 9 million seeds saved under standard conditions, either for long or short term preservation mechanism, representing over 150 species and nearly 200 unique species, with a special focus on vital domestic types that prevent land degeneration and enhance their sustainable management. Noteworthy, the State of Qatar has successfully activated the law of the unified system for the management of plant genetic resources proposed by Qatar for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states to protect the rights of GCC states over their local plants and regulate the mechanism for sharing genetic resources among the countries.

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Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes are headed to the Alamo Bowl after a phenomenal college football season in the Big 12. The Buffaloes finished the year as the No. 4 team in the Big 12 standings. They'll face BYU, a conference opponent, in their bowl game on Dec. 28 at 7:30 p.m. ET in San Antonio, Texas. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Thanks for the feedback.Gun found on suspect in killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO matches shell casings at scene, police say ALTOONA, Pa. (AP) — New York City’s police commissioner says the gun found on the suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO matches shell casings found at the crime scene. Commissioner Jessica Tisch also said Wednesday that lab results matched suspect Luigi Mangione’s prints to a water bottle and a snack bar wrapper found near the scene of the killing. Police had said earlier that they believed the gunman bought the items at a nearby coffee shop while awaiting his target. Mangione is jailed in Pennsylvania on weapon and forgery charges, but he also has been charged in New York with murder in Brian Thompson's death. His lawyer has noted that Mangione is presumed innocent. Authorities are scrutinizing evidence and the suspect’s experiences with the health care industry. Arguments over whether Luigi Mangione is a 'hero' offer a glimpse into an unusual American moment Memes and online posts in support of 26-year-old Luigi Mangione, who's charged with killing UnitedHealthcare's CEO, have mushroomed online. Some cast Mangione as a hero. That's too far, says Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a rising Democrat who was almost the Democratic vice presidential nominee this year. CEO Brian Thompson's death touched off off these ripples. They offer a glimpse into how so many different aspects of 21st-century life can be surreally connected, from public violence to politics, from health care to humor, or attempts at it. FBI Director Wray says he intends to resign before Trump takes office in January WASHINGTON (AP) — FBI Director Christopher Wray says he plans to resign at the end of President Joe Biden’s term in January. The announcement Wednesday comes a week and a half after President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate loyalist Kash Patel for the position. His impending resignation will bring him three years short of the completion of a 10-year term during which he tried to keep the FBI out of politics even as the bureau found itself entangled in a string of explosive investigations. Trump applauded the news Wednesday, saying it will end the weaponization of what he called the “Department of Injustice.” Donald Trump will ring the New York Stock Exchange bell as he's named Time's Person of the Year NEW YORK (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump is expected to ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange for the first time and be named Time magazine's Person of the Year. Thursday's events will be a notable moment of twin recognitions for Trump, a born-and-bred New Yorker who has long seen praise from the business world and media as a sign of success. Four people with knowledge of his plans told The Associated Press that Trump was expected to be on Wall Street on Thursday to mark the ceremonial start of the day's trading, while a person familiar with the selection confirmed that Trump had been selected as Time's Person of the Year. The Trump and Biden teams insist they're working hand in glove on foreign crises WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump doesn’t think much of Joe Biden’s foreign policy record. He frequently casts the outgoing Democratic president as a feckless leader who shredded American credibility around the world during his four-year term. But the Trump and Biden national security teams have come to an understanding that they have no choice but to work together as conflicts in Gaza, Syria and Ukraine have left a significant swath of the world on a knife’s edge. It’s fuzzy how much common ground Biden and Trump’s teams have found as they navigate crises that threaten to cause more global upheaval as Trump prepares to settle back into the White House. Syrians flock to morgues looking for loved ones who perished in Assad's prisons DAMASCUS (AP) — Many bodies have been found in Syrian detention centers and prisons since President Bashar al-Assad's government fell. Now Syrians around the world are circulating images of the corpses in hopes that they will see slain loved ones whose fate had been a mystery. At the morgue visited by The Associated Press on Wednesday in Damascus, families flocked to a wall where some of the pictures were pinned in a haunting gallery of the dead. Relatives desperately scanned the images for a recognizable face. Some of the prisoners died just weeks ago. Others perished months earlier. US warns Russia may be ready to use new lethal missile against Ukraine again in 'coming days' WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon says Russia could launch its lethal new intermediate-range ballistic missile against Ukraine again soon. Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh cited a U.S. intelligence assessment in telling reporters on Wednesday that an attack could come “in the coming days.” She says the U.S. does not consider the Oreshnik missile a game changer on the battlefield. But that Russia is using the weapon to intimidate Ukraine as both sides wrestle for an advantage that will give them leverage in any negotiations to end the war. The Russian Defense Ministry also is warning it may retaliate against Kyiv for an attack on a military base in the Rostov region in southern Russia on Wednesday. Israeli strikes on Gaza kill at least 33 including children, Palestinian medics say DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Palestinian medical officials say Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip have killed at least 33 people. One of the strikes hit a home where displaced people were sheltering in the isolated north, killing 19. A separate strike outside nearby Kamal Adwan Hospital killed a woman and her two children, and another strike in central Gaza killed at least seven people. Israel's military says it tries to avoid harming civilians and accuses militants of hiding among them, putting their lives in danger. Local health officials say Israel’s retaliatory offensive after the Hamas attack on Oct. 7, 2023 has killed over 44,000 Palestinians in Gaza. Hannah Kobayashi, missing Hawaii woman whose disappearance prompted a massive search, is found safe LOS ANGELES (AP) — Hannah Kobayashi has been found safe. That’s according to the Los Angeles Police Department. Kobayashi vanished last month in Los Angeles. The missing Hawaii woman's disappearance prompted a massive search and a missing persons investigation. It was not immediately clear where she was found, but police previously said she had voluntarily crossed the border into Mexico. The LAPD said Wednesday the department will wrap up its investigation. Kobayashi's family reported her missing to law enforcement on Nov. 11 after relatives received “strange and cryptic, just alarming” text messages. Kobayashi’s mother and sister said they are “grateful” she has been found safe. Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 World Cup. But when exactly? ZURICH (AP) — Saudi Arabia scored a major win in its campaign to attract major sports events to the kingdom when it was formally appointed as the 2034 World Cup host on Wednesday. Still, many questions remain about the tournament. Key issues include during which part of the year to stage the tournament, where to play the games, whether alcohol will be allowed at all and how to protect workers rights in the massive construction projects required to host the World Cup.Guwahati: Infrastructure projects valued at approximately Rs 1 lakh crore are at various stages of development, said chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday, noting that the state govt has been endeavouring to secure approval for several projects by Feb 25. During a press briefing in New Delhi, Sarma revealed that discussions concerning numerous crucial infrastructure projects were deliberated in his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said, “The list of the projects is extensive. We have requested the PM to consider several key projects. The PM has assured us that the projects, albeit not all, would be undertaken.” Sarma disclosed that an express highway from Guwahati to Silchar in Barak Valley via Barapani in Meghalaya is being planned, with an estimated budget of Rs 25,000 crore. “Should this project receive central govt approval and implementation, the journey duration between Guwahati and Silchar will be substantially reduced. People will be able to travel to Silchar from Guwahati and return the same day. We have requested the PM’s consideration for this project,” he elaborated. He further mentioned that a new bridge spanning the Brahmaputra River, linking Morigaon district on the south bank and Darrang district on the north bank, is being envisioned. This was also discussed with the PM. Another significant project involves establishing direct train connectivity between Guwahati and Gelephu in Bhutan, which was also addressed during his meeting with the PM. Beyond these major initiatives, he said expanding the capacity of the Bongaigaon Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd to five million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) from the current 2.7 MMTPA is another vital project discussed with the PM. He specified that the budget would be approximately Rs 9,000 crore. Bongaigaon Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd, an Indian Oil subsidiary, is situated in Assam’s Chirang district. The CM said efforts are underway for PM Modi to lay the foundation stone for the Guwahati ring-road and the bridge over the Brahmaputra connecting Narengi on the south bank and Kuruwa on the north bank during his February visit to the state. He also anticipated positive developments regarding the Gohpur-Numaligarh underwater tunnel and Kaziranga elevated corridor by Feb. We also published the following articles recently Guwahati-North Guwahati flyover to be complete in 6 months: Sarma Guwahati's new six-lane Brahmaputra River bridge, linking Bharalumukh and Majgaon, is nearing completion, with a projected inauguration between September and October 2024. This bridge will drastically cut travel time, and tolls will apply only to lorries and night super buses to manage city traffic. Sarma, Conrad inaugurates IISF at IIT-Guwahati The 10th India International Science Festival (IISF) commenced on Saturday at IIT-Guwahati, celebrating scientific advancements and collaboration. Chief Ministers of Assam and Meghalaya, along with other dignitaries, inaugurated the event, which is supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences. Silchar 4-laning project nears completion Silchar's infrastructure receives a major boost with the ongoing conversion of a key two-lane road into a four-lane highway. Cachar DC Mridul Yadav recently inspected the Rangirkhari Point to Birbal Bazar stretch, assessing progress and preparations for the next phase. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , and Mini Crossword .

The Jacksonville Jaguars placed quarterback Trevor Lawrence (concussion) on injured reserve Wednesday, likely ending his season after a vicious illegal hit in last week's loss to the Houston Texans. Lawrence, slammed in the head and neck by Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair after giving himself up, would be eligible to return Week 18. However, the 2-10 Jags are already eliminated from playoff contention. Mac Jones will start for the Jags this week against the Tennessee Titans. Al-Shaair, meanwhile, was suspended three games by the NFL on Tuesday. Lawrence, 25, has thrown for 2,045 yards, 11 touchdowns and seven interceptions in 10 starts this season. He also missed time with a left (non-throwing) shoulder injury. Lawrence was carrying the ball and went into a feet-first slide at Houston's 45-yard line during the second quarter of Sunday's game. Al-Shaair launched into him and delivered a forearm shot near the quarterback's head and shoulder. More from this section Multiple skirmishes erupted as Lawrence lay prone on the field. Al-Shaair was ejected, along with Jaguars cornerback Jarrian Jones. Lawrence immediately displayed the hand motion known as the fencing posture that is associated with traumatic brain injury. However, he was able to stand after being attended to briefly, and he sat up while being taken to the locker room on a cart. Al-Shaair took to social media Monday to apologize but the NFL was unmoved, announcing the three-game suspension on Tuesday. He is appealing. Al-Shaair, 27, is a repeat offender this season, having just been fined $11,255 for a late hit on Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard last week. He was also fined $11,817 for punching Chicago Bears running back Roschon Johnson in a Week 2 game. That came after a sideline skirmish that began after Al-Shaair hit Bears quarterback Caleb Williams late out of bounds but wasn't flagged. Lawrence has thrown for 13,815 yards, 69 TDs and 46 INTs since being selected No. 1 overall by the Jags in the 2021 draft out of Clemson. --Field Level Media

NoneJaguars place QB Trevor Lawrence (concussion) on IRNone

Artivion VP regulatory Andrew Green sells $228,540 in stock

SMDV Has High Exposure In Banks And Lags CompetitorsNEW ORLEANS (AP) — The largest artificial intelligence data center ever built by Facebook’s parent company Meta is coming to northeast Louisiana, the company said Wednesday, bringing hopes that the $10 billion facility will transform an economically neglected corner of the state. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The largest artificial intelligence data center ever built by Facebook’s parent company Meta is coming to northeast Louisiana, the company said Wednesday, bringing hopes that the $10 billion facility will transform an economically neglected corner of the state. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The largest artificial intelligence data center ever built by Facebook’s parent company Meta is coming to northeast Louisiana, the company said Wednesday, bringing hopes that the $10 billion facility will transform an economically neglected corner of the state. Republican Gov. Jeff Landry called it “game-changing” for his state’s expanding tech sector, yet some environmental groups have raised concerns over the amount of energy it would use — and whether it could lead to higher energy bills in the future. Meanwhile, Elon Musk’s AI startup, xAI, is expanding its existing supercomputer project in Memphis, Tennessee, the city’s chamber of commerce said Wednesday. The chamber also said that Nvidia, Dell, and Supermicro Computer will be “establishing operations in Memphis,” without offering further details. Louisiana is among a growing number of states seeking to lure big tech firms in need of energy-intensive data centers with tax credits and other incentives. The U.S. Commerce Department found that there aren’t enough data centers in the U.S. to meet the rising AI-fueled demand, which is projected to grow by 9% each year through 2030, citing industry reports. Meta anticipates its Louisiana data center will create 500 operational jobs and 5,000 temporary construction jobs, said Kevin Janda, director of data center strategy. At 4 million square feet (370,000 square meters), it will be the company’s largest AI data center to date, he added. “We want to make sure we are having a positive impact on the local level,” Janda said. Congressional leaders and local representatives from across the political spectrum heralded the Meta facility as a boon for Richland parish, a rural part of Louisiana with a population of 20,000 historically reliant on agriculture. About one in four residents are considered to live in poverty and the parish has an employment rate below 50%, according to the U.S. census data. Meta plans to invest $200 million into road and water infrastructure improvements for the parish to offset its water usage. The facility is expected to be completed in 2030. Entergy, one of the nation’s largest utilities providers, is fast-tracking plans to build three natural gas power plants in Louisiana capable of generating 2,262 megawatts for Meta’s data center over a 15 year period — nearly one-tenth of Entergy’s existing energy capacity across four states. The Louisiana Public Service Commission is weighing Entergy’s proposal as some environmental groups have opposed locking the state into more fossil fuel-based energy infrastructure. Meta said it plans to help bring 1,500 megawatts of renewable energy onto the grid in the future. Louisiana residents may ultimately end up with rate increases to pay off the cost of operating these natural gas power plants when Meta’s contract with Entergy expires, said Jessica Hendricks, state policy director for the Alliance for Affordable Energy, a Louisiana-based nonprofit advocating for energy consumers. “There’s no reason why residential customers in Louisiana need to pay for a power plant for energy that they’re not going to use,” Hendricks said. “And we want to make sure that there’s safeguards in place.” Public service commissioner Foster Campbell, who represents northeast Louisiana, said he does not believe the data center will increase rates for Louisianians and views it as vital for his region. “It’s going in one of the most needed places in Louisiana and maybe one of the most needed places in the United States of America,” Foster said. “I’m for it 100%.” Environmental groups have also warned of the pollution generated from Musk’s AI data center in Memphis. The Southern Environmental Law Center, among others, says the supercomputer could strain the power grid, prompting attention from the Environmental Protection Agency. Eighteen gas turbines currently running at xAI’s south Memphis facility are significant sources of ground-level ozone, better known as smog, the group said. Patrick Anderson, an attorney at the law center, said xAI has operated with “a stunning lack of transparency” in developing its South Memphis facility, which is located near predominantly Black neighborhoods that have long dealt with pollution and health risks from factories and other industrial sites. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. “Memphians deserve to know how xAI will affect them,” he said, “and should have a seat at the table when these decisions are being made.” _____ Sainz reported from Memphis, Tennessee. Associated Press writer Matt O’Brien in Providence, Rhode Island, contributed to this report. _____ Brook is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Brook on the social platform X: @jack_brook96 Advertisement Advertisement

Yankees’ Juan Soto backup plans taking shape in free agencyThe Jacksonville Jaguars placed quarterback Trevor Lawrence (concussion) on injured reserve Wednesday, likely ending his season after a vicious illegal hit in last week's loss to the Houston Texans. Lawrence, slammed in the head and neck by Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair after giving himself up, would be eligible to return Week 18. However, the 2-10 Jags are already eliminated from playoff contention. Mac Jones will start for the Jags this week against the Tennessee Titans. Al-Shaair, meanwhile, was suspended three games by the NFL on Tuesday. Lawrence, 25, has thrown for 2,045 yards, 11 touchdowns and seven interceptions in 10 starts this season. He also missed time with a left (non-throwing) shoulder injury. Lawrence was carrying the ball and went into a feet-first slide at Houston's 45-yard line during the second quarter of Sunday's game. Al-Shaair launched into him and delivered a forearm shot near the quarterback's head and shoulder. Multiple skirmishes erupted as Lawrence lay prone on the field. Al-Shaair was ejected, along with Jaguars cornerback Jarrian Jones. Lawrence immediately displayed the hand motion known as the fencing posture that is associated with traumatic brain injury. However, he was able to stand after being attended to briefly, and he sat up while being taken to the locker room on a cart. Al-Shaair took to social media Monday to apologize but the NFL was unmoved, announcing the three-game suspension on Tuesday. He is appealing. Al-Shaair, 27, is a repeat offender this season, having just been fined $11,255 for a late hit on Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard last week. He was also fined $11,817 for punching Chicago Bears running back Roschon Johnson in a Week 2 game. That came after a sideline skirmish that began after Al-Shaair hit Bears quarterback Caleb Williams late out of bounds but wasn't flagged. Lawrence has thrown for 13,815 yards, 69 TDs and 46 INTs since being selected No. 1 overall by the Jags in the 2021 draft out of Clemson. --Field Level Media

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Powell: Fed's independence from politics is vital to its interest rate decisions WASHINGTON (AP) — Chair Jerome Powell said the Federal Reserve’s ability to set interest rates free of political interference is necessary for it to make decisions to serve “all Americans” rather than a political party or political outcome. Speaking at the New York Times’ DealBook summit, Powell addressed a question about President-elect Donald Trump’s numerous public criticisms of the Fed and of Powell himself. During the election campaign, Trump had insisted that as president, he should have a “say” in the Fed’s interest rate policies. Despite Trump’s comments, the Fed chair said he was confident of widespread support in Congress for maintaining the central bank’s independence. UnitedHealthcare CEO kept a low public profile. Then he was shot to death in New York NEW YORK (AP) — Brian Thompson led one of the biggest health insurers in the US but was unknown to millions of people his decisions affected. The fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare's chief executive on a midtown Manhattan sidewalk Wednesday became a mystery that riveted the nation. Police say it was a targeted killing. Thompson was 50. He had worked at the company for 20 years and had run health care giant UnitedHealth Group Inc.'s insurance business since 2021. It provides health coverage for more than 49 million Americans and brought in $281 billion in revenue last year. Thompson's $10.2 million annual compensation made him one of the company’s highest-paid executives. Trump nominates cryptocurrency advocate Paul Atkins as SEC chair President-elect Donald Trump says he intends to nominate cryptocurrency advocate Paul Atkins to chair the Securities and Exchange Commission. Atkins is the CEO of Patomak Partners and a former SEC commissioner. Trump calls Atkins a “proven leader for common sense regulations.” In the years since leaving the SEC, Atkins has made the case against too much market regulation. The SEC oversees U.S. securities markets and investments. If confirmed next year by the new Republican-led Senate, Atkins would replace Gary Gensler, who's been leading the U.S. government’s crackdown on the crypto industry. Atkins was widely considered the most conservative SEC member during his tenure and known to have a strong free-market bent. Australia is banning social media for people under 16. Could this work elsewhere — or even there? It is an ambitious social experiment of our moment in history. Experts say it could accomplish something that parents, schools and other governments have attempted with varying degrees of success — keeping kids off social media until they turn 16. Australia’s new law was approved by its Parliament last week. It's an attempt to swim against many tides of modern life — formidable forces like technology, marketing, globalization and, of course, the iron will of a teenager. The ban won’t go into effect for another year. But how will Australia be able to enforce it? That’s not clear, nor will it be easy. White House says at least 8 US telecom firms, dozens of nations impacted by China hacking campaign WASHINGTON (AP) — A top White House official says at least eight U.S. telecom firms and dozens of nations have been impacted by a Chinese hacking campaign. Deputy national security adviser Anne Neuberger offered the new details Wednesday about the breadth of the sprawling Chinese hacking campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans. Neuberger divulged the scope of the hack a day after the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency issued guidance intended to help root out the hackers and prevent similar cyberespionage in the future. White House officials cautioned that a number of telecommunication firms and countries impacted could still grow. Pete Hegseth's mother says The New York Times made 'threats' by asking her to comment on a story A basic tenet of journalism — calling someone for comment on a story — was seen as a threat by defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth's mother. Penelope Hegseth appeared on Fox News Channel to talk about her son, whose nomination by President-elect Trump to lead the Pentagon is threatened by a series of stories about his past behavior. One came this past weekend, when The New York Times wrote about a private email Penelope Hegseth sent to her son about his treatment of women. She said on Fox News that she felt threatened when the Times called her about the email, which she had quickly regretted sending. The Times said they were engaging in routine journalism. District of Columbia says Amazon secretly stopped fast deliveries to 2 predominantly Black ZIP codes The District of Columbia is alleging in a lawsuit that Amazon secretly stopped providing its fastest delivery service to residents of two predominantly Black neighborhoods in the city. The district says the online retailer still charged residents of two ZIP codes millions of dollars for a service that provides speedy deliveries. The complaint filed on Wednesday in District of Columbia Superior Court revolves around Amazon’s Prime membership service. The lawsuit alleges Amazon in mid-2022 imposed what it called a delivery “exclusion” on the two low-income ZIP codes. An Amazon spokesperson says the company made the change based on concerns about driver safety. The spokesperson says claims that Amazon's business practices are discriminatory are “categorically false.” Biden says 'Africa is the future' as he pledges millions more on the last day of Angola visit LOBITO, Angola (AP) — President Joe Biden has pledged another $600 million for an ambitious multi-country rail project in Africa as one of the final foreign policy moves of his administration. He told African leaders Wednesday that the resource-rich continent of more than 1.4 billion people had been “left behind for much too long. But not anymore. Africa is the future.” Biden used the third and final day of his visit to Angola to showcase the Lobito Corridor railway. The U.S. and allies are investing heavily to refurbish train lines in Zambia, Congo and Angola in a region rich in critical minerals to counter China's influence. The end of an Eras tour approaches, marking a bittersweet moment for Taylor Swift fans NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The global phenomenon that is Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is coming to an end after the popstar performed more than 150 shows across five continents over nearly two years. Since launching the tour in 2023, Swift has shattered sales and attendance records. It's even created such an economic boom that the Federal Reserve took note. But for many who attended the concerts, and the millions more who eagerly watched on their screens, the tour also became a beacon of joy. It's become a chance not only to appreciate Swift’s expansive music career, but also celebrate the yearslong journey fans have taken with her. US senators grill officials from 5 airlines over fees for seats and checked bags A U.S. Senate subcommittee is taking aim at airlines and their growing use of fees for things like early boarding and better seats. Members of the Senate Permanent on Investigations say airlines have raised billions of dollars by imposing fees that are getting hard to understand and even harder to avoid paying. The senators and the Biden administration call them “junk fees,” and they say the extra charges are making travel less affordable. Some senators expressed frustration during a hearing on Wednesday hearing when airline executives couldn't explain how they set various fees. Airlines say fees let consumers pay for things they want, like more legroom, and avoid paying for things they don't want.

Musk causes uproar by backing German far-right party ahead of key electionsUS And Foreign Leaders Praise Jimmy Carter's Legacy

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Fifth-year defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton has surged forward this season. He’s started more games (seven) than in the rest of his career combined (three), and he produced one of the Kansas City Chiefs’ season highlights with his fourth-down sack in Las Vegas to punctuate an epic goal-line stand. And he tends to be found in the middle of pivotal scrums, like he was against the Raiders on Friday as Nick Bolton made a game-saving fumble recovery. To understand a bit about how and why, well, consider what might be called the most important play of the season: The alert, instinctive way he came to catch 13-year-old Andy Radzavicz as the boy fell headfirst out of the stands at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Nov. 24. “They say I’m a hero,” Wharton said in an interview with The Kansas City Star, spoken in such a tone as to suggest that he just did what anyone would. But look closely at the start of the viral TikTok video and you see something revealing about both the person and the player – who happened to be looking up because he likes to give his gloves away after games. “His eyes just get kind of big, and he darts over,” Jay Radzavicz, Andy’s father, said Monday in a phone interview with The Star. “We had a good guy in a good position.” ‘A different way to meet him’ In fact, the undrafted free agent out of Missouri S&T made his way to the NFL in large part because of a soul and heart that make him relentless – something coach Andy Reid noted earlier this season when he said “nobody practices harder, nobody works harder than ‘Turk’,” and that persistence has paid off for him. Those traits certainly paid off for the Radzavicz family, now forever grateful to Wharton for what he did to save Andy from a potentially serious injury. As Wharton reflected on the moment in an interview after the Chiefs’ 19-17 victory over the Raiders on Friday, he recalled hearing someone calling his name. Then he felt fear himself as he saw the boy wearing a Bolton No. 32 jersey tumbling from the stands above the Chiefs exit. So he barged through a couple security guards, who had their back to the stands. “I don’t think they knew what I was doing,” Wharton said with a laugh. “So I kind of had to just lay out a little bit and push them (back).” You can’t see any of that in the video that Jay jokingly has likened to the Zapruder film. And you don’t get to see that Wharton asked Andy if he was OK and helped hoist him back into the stands and somehow still had the presence of mind to give Andy his gloves. The football-crazy family that lives near Jacksonville got to express their gratitude more directly on Friday at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. As part of another trip spanning the country for NFL and college games, they’d already arranged to be at the game. But through word of mouth, the Chiefs organization discovered they would be attending and arranged pregame field passes and let Wharton know where they’d be. “It was a different way to meet him,” Wharton deadpanned with a smile, “other than when he was falling.” The family gave Wharton a Missouri S&T sweatshirt; Wharton gave them the jersey he wore in Charlotte and signed it in a few different places on the numbers: “To Andy” “Go Chiefs!!!” “TW#98” “Strive for Greatness” “Always put God First” “Love those who love you” Count Andy in the latter group. “He’s my favorite by far now,” Andy said. Holiday roads Jay Radzavicz was raised in upstate New York and had an early fascination with football. Around the time he was in eighth grade, he remembers a family cross-country drive in a Griswold-esque paneled station wagon highlighted by stops in Columbus, Ohio, and Manhattan, Kansas, just so he could stare at the empty stadiums and imagine them on game days. He’d become far more acquainted with the area and grew to be a Chiefs fan when he was a football graduate assistant at Central Missouri State and during his 11 years in Pittsburg, Kansas, where he was a reporter, producer and sports director for KOAM-TV. The imagination and wanderlust for sports stoked in his youth stayed with Jay Radzavicz, who later spent 20 years as a producer with the Golf Channel and now runs his own production company. So traveling for events has been a big part of family life for Jay Radzavicz, his wife, Maureen (LIV Golf’s director of tournament media operations) and their sons Andy and Asher. By Jay’s estimate, Andy probably has been to about 40 NFL games by now, including a number in Jacksonville, and several dozen college games. While the boys have different NFL allegiances (Asher is a Bills guy and secured a glove from Josh Allen on Sunday night), they are aligned when it comes to their favorite college team: Kansas State. In 2020, Andy was elated to get gloves from one of his idols, Deuce Vaughn, after Kansas State’s 69-31 loss to Texas. “Because he’s short (5-foot-5), and I’m short, too,” Andy said. “He inspired me.” (For the record, Andy said he wasn’t sure how tall he is right now but was reminded by his father he was about a foot shorter than the other receivers on his team this fall.) That 2020 game was part of a combo trip to see the Chiefs against the Broncos, one of a number of such travels they set up a couple times a year. Last week, for instance, Jay and the boys flew on Thursday after Thanksgiving dinner and took in the Chiefs game on Friday. Then they drove to Ames, Iowa, for the Kansas State game on Saturday and rather remarkably made the 870-mile drive to Buffalo for the Sunday night game. The boys had hoped to stop to see Notre Dame Stadium and Toledo’s Glass Bowl on the way. But they had to stay on track to get to Wally World, er, Highmark Stadium, on time. ‘You’ve got to root for him’ Andy’s first game at Arrowhead was the 37-31 overtime loss to New England in the 2018 season AFC Championship Game. “I liked the experience,” he said from the airport in Buffalo on Monday, “and I wanted to be a Chiefs fan.” At the time, Wharton had just finished his senior year at Division II Missouri S&T, where he thrived in every way after not attracting any Division I offers coming out of University City High outside St. Louis. Wharton, who studied psychology at the school best known for engineering, was both a dominant player and standout young man there. Andy Ball, then the assistant head coach calling the offense, still raves about Wharton’s tremendous athleticism, phenomenal “motor” and the selfless and deeply caring teammate he was. “He’s such a humble good guy,” said Ball, the school’s head coach since 2022. “If you know him, you’ve got to root for him.” All the more so, or at least all the more so for more people, as Wharton’s career has rebooted after he missed most of the 2022 season with a torn ACL and was working his way back in 2023. And after making that vital postgame play that suddenly made him national news in about every media outlet imaginable. When it happened, Jay was some 30 or so yards away to give Andy room to converge among a group of kids as he so often does to get autographs, a high-five or a glove. (Or baseballs, for that matter: The boys have a bin full from MLB games). By now, Andy knows how to handle himself. But this time, something was different as he went down the stands to “try to meet all the Chiefs players” and leaned in to call out to Wharton and running back Carson Steele: He thought one railing was extending right into another. Only when he leaned his hip into it did he discover they didn’t connect. “I just, like, got off-balance,” Andy said, “and I just toppled over.” It was so sudden he almost didn’t have time to be really scared of what it would have been like to land on his head. For that matter, by the time Wharton was handing him back up he was worrying about something else: whether he was going to be in trouble for falling on the field. It all happened so fast that Jay didn’t really realize the gravity of it until the TikTok video emerged in the next day or so. Next thing you know, it’s featured on “The Pat McAfee Show” and “Today” and “Inside Edition.” “It just kind of snowballed from there,” Jay said. All because a potential tragedy was averted by “a good guy in a good position.”

Stock market today: Wall Street gains ground as it notches a winning week and another Dow recordNEW YORK (AP) — Brian Thompson led one of the biggest health insurers in the U.S. but was unknown to millions of people his decisions affected. Then Wednesday's targeted fatal shooting of the UnitedHealthcare CEO on a midtown Manhattan sidewalk thrust the executive and his business into the national spotlight. Thompson, who was 50, had worked at the giant UnitedHealth Group Inc for 20 years and run the insurance arm since 2021 after running its Medicare and retirement business. As CEO, Thompson led a firm that provides health coverage to more than 49 million Americans — more than the population of Spain. United is the largest provider of Medicare Advantage plans, the privately run versions of the U.S. government’s Medicare program for people age 65 and older. The company also sells individual insurance and administers health-insurance coverage for thousands of employers and state-and federally funded Medicaid programs. The business run by Thompson brought in $281 billion in revenue last year, making it the largest subsidiary of the Minnetonka, Minnesota-based UnitedHealth Group. His $10.2 million annual pay package, including salary, bonus and stock options awards, made him one of the company's highest-paid executives. The University of Iowa graduate began his career as a certified public accountant at PwC and had little name recognition beyond the health care industry. Even to investors who own its stock, the parent company's face belonged to CEO Andrew Witty, a knighted British triathlete who has testified before Congress. When Thompson did occasionally draw attention, it was because of his role in shaping the way Americans get health care. At an investor meeting last year, he outlined his company's shift to “value-based care,” paying doctors and other caregivers to keep patients healthy rather than focusing on treating them once sick. “Health care should be easier for people,” Thompson said at the time. “We are cognizant of the challenges. But navigating a future through value-based care unlocks a situation where the ... family doesn’t have to make the decisions on their own.” Thompson also drew attention in 2021 when the insurer, like its competitors, was widely criticized for a plan to start denying payment for what it deemed non-critical visits to hospital emergency rooms. “Patients are not medical experts and should not be expected to self-diagnose during what they believe is a medical emergency,” the chief executive of the American Hospital Association wrote in an open letter addressed to Thompson. “Threatening patients with a financial penalty for making the wrong decision could have a chilling effect on seeking emergency care.” United Healthcare responded by delaying rollout of the change. Thompson, who lived in a Minneapolis suburb and was the married father of two sons in high school, was set to speak at an investor meeting in a midtown New York hotel. He was on his own and about to enter the building when he was shot in the back by a masked assailant who fled on foot before pedaling an e-bike into Central Park a few blocks away, the New York Police Department said. Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said investigators were looking at Thompson's social media accounts and interviewing employees and family members. “Didn’t seem like he had any issues at all,” Kenny said. "He did not have a security detail.” AP reporters Michael R. Sisak and Steve Karnowski contributed to this report. Murphy reported from Indianapolis.Readers Write: Abortion debate, Gaetz report, Dean Phillips, headlines, media literacy

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Legendary Scottish pop star Jimmy Somerville has condemned LGB Alliance for the "unapproved misuse" of one of his songs. The former lead singer and lyricist of Bronski Beat and The Communards posted a clip on social media telling the campaign group, which has been accused of transphobia, not to use 1984 hit "Smalltown Boy" in a forthcoming documentary. Describing the group as "anti-trans", the Glaswegian-born singer said: "It has come to my attention that the LGB Alliance is using Smalltown Boy in a film called Generational Gay. “LGB Alliance is anti-trans. I would never allow anything of mine to be used by such a group. “We will do everything we can as soon as possible to have Smalltown Boy removed from this film. How dare you? How f*****g dare you?” Released in May 1984, "Smalltown Boy" reached number three in the UK chart and became the biggest hit for Bronski Beat, the synth-pop group formed of Somerville, Steve Bronski and Larry Steinbachek. The track became and remains a queer anthem, and in 2022 was named one of the greatest dance songs of all time by Rolling Stone. READ MORE: Tunnock's targeted with boycott calls after donating to LGB Alliance England urged to follow Scotland on LGBT education in schools Transgender rights must be part of the struggle for the wider LGB movement It tells the story of a young gay man forced to leave his hometown due to prejudice and discrimination, reflecting Somerville's own decision to leave Glasgow for London aged 17. Critics of LGB Alliance say the group are against the rights of trans people. The group are advocates of sex-based rights and oppose proposed legislation in the Scottish Parliament to change the process of legal recognition of gender to be "based only on self-identification rather than biological sex".NEW YORK (AP) — Bitcoin extended its streak of record highs after ticking above $99,000 for the first time. The cryptocurrency has rocketed more than 40% in just two weeks. Now, bitcoin is at the doorstep of $100,000, just two years after dropping below $17,000 following the collapse of crypto exchange FTX . The dramatic rally rolls on as industry players expect the incoming Trump administration to bring a more “crypto-friendly” approach toward regulating the digital currency. Bitcoin was trading at $99,526 Friday afternoon, according to CoinDesk. As with everything in the volatile crypto markets, the future is impossible to know. And while some are bullish, other experts continue to warn of investment risks. Here’s what you need to know. Cryptocurrency has been around for a while now. But, chances are, you've heard about it more and more over the last few years. In basic terms, cryptocurrency is digital money. This kind of currency is designed to work through an online network without a central authority — meaning it’s typically not backed by any government or banking institution — and transactions get recorded with technology called a blockchain. Bitcoin is the largest and oldest cryptocurrency, although other assets like ethereum, tether and dogecoin have also gained popularity over the years. Some investors see cryptocurrency as a “digital alternative” to traditional money, but the large majority of daily financial transactions are still conducted using fiat currencies such as the dollar. Also, bitcoin can be very volatile, with its price reliant on larger market conditions. A lot of the recent action has to do with the outcome of the U.S. presidential election. Crypto industry players have welcomed Trump’s victory, in hopes that he would be able to push through legislative and regulatory changes that they’ve long lobbied for — which, generally speaking, aim for an increased sense of legitimacy without too much red tape. Trump, who was once a crypto skeptic, recently pledged to make the U.S. “the crypto capital of the planet” and create a “strategic reserve” of bitcoin. His campaign accepted donations in cryptocurrency and he courted fans at a bitcoin conference in July. He also launched World Liberty Financial, a new venture with family members to trade cryptocurrencies. How of this will actually pan out — and whether or not Trump will successfully act quickly on these promises — has yet to be seen. “This is not necessarily a short-term story, it’s likely a much longer-term story," Citi macro strategist David Glass told The Associated Press last week. "And there is the question of how quickly can U.S. crypto policy make a serious impact on (wider adoption).” One step Trump must take in the short-term is name a new head of the Securities and Exchange Commission, which shares oversight of cryptocurrencies. Gary Gensler, current chair of the SEC, has led the U.S. government’s crackdown on crypto over recent years, penalizing a number of companies for violating securities laws. But he's also faced criticism from industry players in the process, like the chief legal officer of Robinhood , who described Gensler's approach toward crypto as “rigid” and "hostile.” Gensler will step down in January when Trump takes office. Adam Morgan McCarthy, a research analyst at Kaiko, thinks the industry is craving “just some sort of clarity.” Much of the approach to regulating crypto in the past has been “enforcement based,” he notes, which has been helpful in weeding out some bad actors — but legislation might fill in other key gaps. Despite crypto’s recent excitement around Trump, McCarthy said that 2024 has already been a “hugely consequential year for regulation in the U.S.” — pointing to January’s approval of spot bitcoin ETFs, for example, which mark a new way to invest in the asset. Spot ETFs have been the dominant driver of bitcoin for some time now — but, like much of the crypto’s recent momentum, saw record inflows postelection. According to Kaiko , bitcoin ETFs recorded $6 billion in trade volume for the week of the election alone. In April, bitcoin also saw its fourth “halving” — a preprogrammed event that impacts production by cutting the reward for mining, or the creation of new bitcoin, in half. In theory, if demand remains strong, some analysts say this “supply shock” can also help propel the price long term. Others note it may be too early to tell. History shows you can lose money in crypto as quickly as you’ve made it. Long-term price behavior relies on larger market conditions. Trading continues at all hours, every day. At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, bitcoin stood at just over $5,000. Its price climbed to nearly $69,000 by November 2021, during high demand for technology assets, but later crashed during an aggressive series of Federal Reserve rate hikes. And the late-2022 collapse of FTX significantly undermined confidence in crypto overall, with bitcoin falling below $17,000. Investors began returning in large numbers as inflation started to cool — and gains skyrocketed on the anticipation and then early success of spot ETFs. But experts still stress caution, especially for small-pocketed investors. And lighter regulation from the coming Trump administration could mean less guardrails. “I would say, keep it simple. And don’t take on more risk than you can afford to," McCarthy said — adding that there isn't a “magic eight ball” to know for certain what comes next. Assets like bitcoin are produced through a process called “mining,” which consumes a lot of energy. Operations relying on pollutive sources have drawn particular concern over the years. Recent research published by the United Nations University and Earth’s Future journal found that the carbon footprint of 2020-2021 bitcoin mining across 76 nations was equivalent to the emissions from burning 84 billion pounds of coal or running 190 natural gas-fired power plants. Coal satisfied the bulk of bitcoin’s electricity demands (45%), followed by natural gas (21%) and hydropower (16%). Environmental impacts of bitcoin mining boil largely down to the energy source used. Industry analysts have maintained that clean energy has increased in use in recent years, coinciding with rising calls for climate protections

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Among the 500,000 objects in the collection of the Powerhouse museum, its new trust president nominates a shopping arcade sign as his favourite. Business leader, and former Labor roads minister, David Borger, has the job of delivering the largest cultural infrastructure project in Australia since the Sydney Opera House. Powerhouse president, David Borger, says there is a lot riding on the opening of the Parramatta museum. Credit: James Brickwood All of that will be during an election campaign year, smack bang in the middle of one of the most marginal seats in NSW. “I’d be derelict in my duty if I didn’t feel pressure because there’s a lot riding on the opening of this museum,” Borger says. The electric neon sign to which he shares an emotional attachment once belonged to a mall he’d take his mum. Representative of the 1980s commercial retail development in Parramatta CBD – much of it flattened in a local building boom – it will be hung in one of the museum’s opening exhibitions showcasing the psychology of the shopping mall. “Mum had a mental illness,” Borger says. “She would be in Cumberland Hospital every three years, and we would come for a cup of tea in the Parramall cafe. “Now that sign from that little old shopping centre is going to be a part of something bigger. It’s remnant of a place that’s probably changed more than Dubai.” Born and bred nearby to Parramatta, Borger has been a longtime critic of the lop-sided distribution of cultural investment to city museums and galleries. He was, therefore, an obvious choice to step into the shoes of former Coalition arts minister Peter Collins to lead the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences trust from January 1. The trust has oversight of a $300 million revamp of the shuttered Ultimo campus, as well as the museum’s new $915 million Parramatta headquarters, the region’s first state-run cultural institution due to open in 2026. On the Parramatta riverside, more than 70 per cent of its 1300 pieces of exterior structure of the building are in place. Inside the concierge room of the Powerhouse where visitors will be welcomed. Credit: James Brickwood Installation of doors in the largest of the presentation spaces is underway where visitors will marvel at large objects showcasing the history of air travel and space exploration and First Nations stargazing. Visitors will spill out to a northern terrace. The museum will serve a region home to one-eighth of NSW’s population, one in five of whom are under 15 years, and half born outside Australia. For many, it will be the first time they step into a museum. “We’ve got to be a bit unpretentious here,” Borger says. “We don’t want to be too stuffy and conservative; we have to be welcoming. We have to deliver a great experience when someone walks in the door for the first time, something that knocks their socks off.” Suzette Meade, who led protests against the demolition of the historic villa, Willow Grove, which made way for the Powerhouse, questions spending on authors, chefs and photographers appointed as museum associates alongside professional curators and conservators. She is looking for the trust, led by Borger, to focus on delivering what was promised to the families of western Sydney – a museum of science and technology to rival the Smithsonian, as well as celebrating Parramatta’s rich cultural heritage. Borger is promising dedicated family exhibitions, with the interests of families and children embedded in all its offerings. He is “unapologetic” about finding new ways to present the collection. Nor should the public mind, he says, if weddings share presentation floor space. All but one of the seven Parramatta display spaces will be available for commercial hire. “The hope is that there’s some great experiences here and some revenue generating opportunities that can go to help with the operational costs. Loading “We need to make sure that people come back for multiple visits, that they feel a connection to the museum because quite frankly a lot of people haven’t felt close to their museums for a long time. They’ve lived so far away from them, it’s been hard to get to them.” Borger’s first challenge is meeting the government’s $75 million goal for private donations for building costs. Some $53 million has been raised for capital works over three years, $27 million short of its target. The museum is without a campaign director. Borger says there was a pipeline of prospective donors to the museum with “real weight” and was confident of “closing the gap”. Should he fall short, the bill will be picked up by taxpayers. To rumours of overruns in fitout and program, Borger concedes budgets can move. “I’m confident we will deliver an amazing series of exhibitions within the money that has been given to us,” he said, adding: “I think some people frankly don’t believe western Sydney could host a tier-one cultural institution. There’s some who still don’t. We’re going to prove them wrong.” Find out the next TV, streaming series and movies to add to your must-sees. Get The Watchlist delivered every Thursday . Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. License this article City life Tourism Australian culture For subscribers Linda Morris is an arts writer at The Sydney Morning Herald Connect via Twitter , Facebook or email . 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Among the 500,000 objects in the collection of the Powerhouse museum, its new trust president nominates a shopping arcade sign as his favourite. Business leader, and former Labor roads minister, David Borger, has the job of delivering the largest cultural infrastructure project in Australia since the Sydney Opera House. Powerhouse president, David Borger, says there is a lot riding on the opening of the Parramatta museum. Credit: James Brickwood All of that will be during an election campaign year, smack bang in the middle of one of the most marginal seats in NSW. “I’d be derelict in my duty if I didn’t feel pressure because there’s a lot riding on the opening of this museum,” Borger says. The electric neon sign to which he shares an emotional attachment once belonged to a mall he’d take his mum. Representative of the 1980s commercial retail development in Parramatta CBD – much of it flattened in a local building boom – it will be hung in one of the museum’s opening exhibitions showcasing the psychology of the shopping mall. “Mum had a mental illness,” Borger says. “She would be in Cumberland Hospital every three years, and we would come for a cup of tea in the Parramall cafe. “Now that sign from that little old shopping centre is going to be a part of something bigger. It’s remnant of a place that’s probably changed more than Dubai.” Born and bred nearby to Parramatta, Borger has been a longtime critic of the lop-sided distribution of cultural investment to city museums and galleries. He was, therefore, an obvious choice to step into the shoes of former Coalition arts minister Peter Collins to lead the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences trust from January 1. The trust has oversight of a $300 million revamp of the shuttered Ultimo campus, as well as the museum’s new $915 million Parramatta headquarters, the region’s first state-run cultural institution due to open in 2026. On the Parramatta riverside, more than 70 per cent of its 1300 pieces of exterior structure of the building are in place. Inside the concierge room of the Powerhouse where visitors will be welcomed. Credit: James Brickwood Installation of doors in the largest of the presentation spaces is underway where visitors will marvel at large objects showcasing the history of air travel and space exploration and First Nations stargazing. Visitors will spill out to a northern terrace. The museum will serve a region home to one-eighth of NSW’s population, one in five of whom are under 15 years, and half born outside Australia. For many, it will be the first time they step into a museum. “We’ve got to be a bit unpretentious here,” Borger says. “We don’t want to be too stuffy and conservative; we have to be welcoming. We have to deliver a great experience when someone walks in the door for the first time, something that knocks their socks off.” Suzette Meade, who led protests against the demolition of the historic villa, Willow Grove, which made way for the Powerhouse, questions spending on authors, chefs and photographers appointed as museum associates alongside professional curators and conservators. She is looking for the trust, led by Borger, to focus on delivering what was promised to the families of western Sydney – a museum of science and technology to rival the Smithsonian, as well as celebrating Parramatta’s rich cultural heritage. Borger is promising dedicated family exhibitions, with the interests of families and children embedded in all its offerings. He is “unapologetic” about finding new ways to present the collection. Nor should the public mind, he says, if weddings share presentation floor space. All but one of the seven Parramatta display spaces will be available for commercial hire. “The hope is that there’s some great experiences here and some revenue generating opportunities that can go to help with the operational costs. Loading “We need to make sure that people come back for multiple visits, that they feel a connection to the museum because quite frankly a lot of people haven’t felt close to their museums for a long time. They’ve lived so far away from them, it’s been hard to get to them.” Borger’s first challenge is meeting the government’s $75 million goal for private donations for building costs. Some $53 million has been raised for capital works over three years, $27 million short of its target. The museum is without a campaign director. Borger says there was a pipeline of prospective donors to the museum with “real weight” and was confident of “closing the gap”. Should he fall short, the bill will be picked up by taxpayers. To rumours of overruns in fitout and program, Borger concedes budgets can move. “I’m confident we will deliver an amazing series of exhibitions within the money that has been given to us,” he said, adding: “I think some people frankly don’t believe western Sydney could host a tier-one cultural institution. There’s some who still don’t. We’re going to prove them wrong.” Find out the next TV, streaming series and movies to add to your must-sees. Get The Watchlist delivered every Thursday . Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. License this article City life Tourism Australian culture For subscribers Linda Morris is an arts writer at The Sydney Morning Herald Connect via Twitter , Facebook or email . 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Pope Francis sends pointed message to Israel with detail in Nativity scene By ALEX HAMMER FOR DAILYMAIL.COM Published: 21:49, 8 December 2024 | Updated: 22:01, 8 December 2024 e-mail 7 View comments Pope Francis unveiled the annual nativity scene at the Vatican over the weekend - raising some eyebrows in the process. A noticeable addition this year saw the seminal scene's baby Jesus draped in a keffiyeh - a traditional scarf used by Palestinians as a national symbol. Jesus was born into a Jewish family in Bethlehem some 2,000 years ago - and his death triggered the birth of Christianity. A statement from the wheelchair-bound pontiff, moreover, saw him humbly ask onlookers for peace in the Middle East, weeks after he called for an investigation into what he said may be a 'genocide' occurring in the Gaza Strip. That came in response to repeated Israeli military attacks in the region - also considered the holy land in the Catholic faith. On Sunday, the 87-year-old was gifted a 'Star of Bethlehem' plaque by two Palestinian children - paving the way for an impassioned speech. In it, the Catholic Church's leader pleaded 'Enough with wars, enough of violence!', after thousands turned out to St Peter's Basilica to see him install 21 new cardinals the day before. 'You know that one of the most profitable investments is in the weapons industry? They earn money to kill. But why?' he continued, again condemning the arms industry he has said is fueling the war effort. 'No more wars!' he again said - this time drawing cheers. As he spoke, the symbolic addition served as a poignant - yet polarizing - nod to one side's struggle, ahead of what's set to be the 2,023rd birthday of Jesus Christ. Scroll down for video: Pope Francis unveiled the annual nativity scene at the Vatican over the weekend - including one installment saw the seminal scene's baby Jesus draped in a keffiyeh - a traditional scarf used by Palestinians as a national symbol A statement from the wheelchair-bound pontiff, moreover, saw him humbly ask onlookers for peace in the Middle East, weeks after he called for an investigation into what he said may be a 'genocide' occurring in the Gaza Strip 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill to all people,' a message on the Bethlehem Star gifted to Pope Francis during the ceremony, engraved in both Latin and Arabic, read. After airing his call to put a cease to the violence, the 266th head of the Catholic Church paid somber respects to the installation. It was designed by Palestinian artists Johny Andonia and Faten Nastas Mitwasi, both of whom hail from the Palestinian town of Bethlehem. Figures of the Holy Family, meanwhile, were carved from olive wood, further connecting the scene to its place of origin. The accompanying plaque also contained an inscription asserting 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men,' again in Arabic and Latin. The plaque and nativity scene will now remain in the Paul VI Hall, the church said - as part of several nativity scenes collectively titled 'Nativity of Bethlehem 2024. It is not to be confused with the main nativity scene currently propped up in St Peter's Square, which does not include a keffiyeh. In another controversial move, the pope was joined Sunday by PLO executive committee member Ramzi Khouri, who conveyed 'warm greetings' on behalf of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. On Saturday, the 87-year-old was gifted a 'Star of Bethlehem' plaque by two Palestinian children - paving the way for an impassioned speech. The installation was designed by Palestinian artists Johny Andonia and Faten Nastas Mitwasi, both of whom hail from Bethlehem, in Palestine 'No more wars!' he again said - this time drawing cheers. As he spoke, the symbolic addition served as a poignant - yet polarizing - nod to one side's struggle, ahead of what's set to be the 2,023rd birthday of Jesus Christ The first prime minister of the Palestinian Authority, Abbas led the PLO's Negotiations Affairs Department before assuming his post in 2003. Now the president of the State of Palestine as well the Palestinian National Authority, the politician has since been subject to criticism for allegedly distorting Jewish history and engaging in Holocaust denial. Just last year, the 89-year-old claimed during a speech later condemned by the US, European Union, France, and Germany that Hitler killed Jews because of their 'social role' as moneylenders, rather than out of antisemitism. He further claimed that Ashkenazi Jews are descendants of Khazars - an obscure warlike tribe in Turkistan who fought against the Arabs starting in the 600s. Abbas's comments saw Paris's Mayor Anne Hidalgo rescind the Medal of the City she gave him back in 2015 - a mere month before the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that killed more than 1,200 people and saw 251 taken hostage. Khouri, in turn, reportedly expressed 'deep gratitude for the pope’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and his tireless efforts to end the war on Gaza and promote justice.' Meanwhile, just last month, in a collection of interviews conducted by author Hernán Reyes Alcaide, Pope Francis called for an investigation into what he framed as a potential 'genocide' occurring in the Gaza Strip. 'According to some experts, what is happening in Gaza has the characteristics of a genocide,” Pope Francis told Reyes in his section of the book, 'Hope Never Disappoints'. That came in response to repeated Israeli military attacks in the region - also considered the holy land in the Catholic faith. Pictured, a Palestinian father wearing the traditional pattern at al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al Balah, Khan Younis, Gaza Strip, Palestinian Territory, on Thursday 'It should be carefully investigated to determine whether it fits into the technical definition formulated by jurists and international bodies,' the pontiff continued - making history as the first pope to openly ponder the possibility of genocide in the war-torn country. Two months before, he appeared to suggest the extent of Israel’s defense in Lebanon and Gaza may be disproportionate to the threat on the country. In response to the statement made in the book, Yaron Sideman, Israel’s ambassador to the Church’s central government in the Vatican posted to X to insist “there was a genocidal massacre on [Oct. 7] of Israeli citizens, 'And since then, Israel has exercised its right of self-defense against attempts from seven different fronts to kill its citizens,' the ambassador added, The Palestinian Community of Rome, meanwhile, had a different take, saying in its own statement, 'Pope Francis has consistently voiced concern over Palestinian suffering and called for respect for international law.' Share or comment on this article: Pope Francis sends pointed message to Israel with detail in Nativity scene e-mail Add commentPolice say searchers don’t expect to find woman in Pennsylvania sinkhole alive UNITY TOWNSHIP, Pa. (AP) — The search for a woman who is believed to have fallen into a sinkhole in western Pennsylvania has become a recovery effort after two treacherous days of digging through mud and rock produced no signs of life. Pennsylvania State Police spokesperson Trooper Steve Limani said during a news conference Wednesday that authorities no longer believe they will find 64-year-old Elizabeth Pollard alive, but that the search for her remains continues. Limani says crews have seen "no signs of any form of life or anything.” Pollard was last seen alive Monday evening when she went out looking for her cat in the village of Marguerite, about 40 miles east of Pittsburgh. WWE is seeking a bigger stage and Netflix, pushing for more live events, is providing it WWE will perform on a stage next month that could be vastly larger than its current home on cable television when it makes its “Raw” debut on Netflix. The sports entertainment company is moving to a platform with about 283 million subscribers worldwide as it departs its current home on the USA Network, which averaged 688,000 viewers in prime-time last year, according to the Nielsen company. For Netflix, onboarding the WWE is part of strategic move to air more live events on the heels of a hugely successful fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul that was viewed by more than 60 million people. Michigan court upholds light sentence for woman who killed dad in dispute over ride DETROIT (AP) — The Michigan Court of Appeals has declined to overturn a light jail sentence for a young woman who killed her father by burning him with a dangerous powder. Prosecutors said Megan Imirowicz was upset when her father couldn’t drive her to a hair appointment before her 18th birthday party. Imirowicz was sentenced to only a year in jail in 2023. She actually spent more than a year in custody because she was locked up before trial and while awaiting her punishment in suburban Detroit. Sumo wrestlers bring 1,500 years of tradition to London as the sport has an international moment LONDON (AP) — London’s Royal Albert Hall is preparing to host a different kind of spectacle: Sumo wrestling. Wrestlers put on an exhibition of heavyweight grappling to promote a tournament scheduled for next October. It marks only the second time an elite five-day tournament will be held outside Japan. The first was held in 1991 at the same venue. Organizers are hoping to whip up the kind of excitement that was generated three decades ago, when the deeply ritualistic sport attracted sell-out crowds and a national television audience. The end of an Eras tour approaches, marking a bittersweet moment for Taylor Swift fans NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The global phenomenon that is Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is coming to an end after the popstar performed more than 150 shows across five continents over nearly two years. Since launching the tour in 2023, Swift has shattered sales and attendance records. It's even created such an economic boom that the Federal Reserve took note. But for many who attended the concerts, and the millions more who eagerly watched on their screens, the tour also became a beacon of joy. It's become a chance not only to appreciate Swift’s expansive music career, but also celebrate the yearslong journey fans have taken with her. Jury revisits key videos in NYC subway chokehold death trial NEW YORK (AP) — Jurors have asked to review police and bystander video at the heart of the New York City chokehold manslaughter case against Daniel Penny. The request came during a second day of deliberations Wednesday. The anonymous jury also asked to rehear part of a city medical examiner’s testimony. The request included testimony about her decision to issue a death certificate without getting toxicology test results for Jordan Neely. He was the agitated subway rider whom Penny held him around the neck for roughly six minutes. Penny has pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide. Prosecutors say he recklessly killed Neely. Penny's defense maintains he was justified in acting to protect fellow subway riders from Neely. Relatives hunt for the missing after Guinea stadium crush amid fears official death toll is too low CONAKRY, Guinea (AP) — Kambaly Kouroumah was searching a local morgue for his teenage brother, Adama, who died after chaos erupted at a soccer game in southern Guinea’s Nzerekore city. Adama, 15, was among 56 people that officials said were killed in Sunday's crush, although rights groups reported a death toll nearly three times higher. Local media, rights groups and witnesses say security forces used tear gas to respond after fans began to throw stones to protest a referee's decision during the soccer game that was organized in honor of Guinea's junta leader, Col. Mamadi Doumbouya. Many of the dead were crushed as they tried to escape through the stadium gates, videos showed. Power shortages in Ecuador are melting away the future of a small town’s ice-cream industry SALCEDO, Ecuador (AP) — Ice-cream production in this quiet Ecuadorian town began in the mid-20th century in a convent for Franciscan nuns. The nuns sold their creamy popsicles in town to gather funds for the poor. But the people of Salcedo saw a business opportunity and began experimenting with new flavors and techniques, establishing a thriving popsicle industry that has made their small town famous among ice-cream lovers. But now, the South American nation is struggling with a relentless wave of power cuts that threaten the future of Salcedo’s ice-cream industry, melting away its dreams of a more prosperous future. Senegalese artisans in the spotlight as they exhibit for the first time at a prestigious art event DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — For the artistic and cultural elites of the West African nation of Senegal, the monthlong Dakar Biennale of Contemporary African Arts is a celebratory moment. But it wasn’t until this year that the local artisans in the Soumbedioune crafts market, just off the Corniche and at the doorstep on the Medina working-class neighborhood, realized what the Biennale was. Craftsmanship is deeply rooted in the country’s culture, but its role has declined in recent years. As living costs rise, many Senegalese opt for cheaper, Chinese-imported products. And those that can afford it buy Western clothes and furniture to mark their social status. Eminem's mother Debbie Nelson, whose rocky relationship fueled the rapper's lyrics, dies at age 69 Debbie Nelson, the mother of rapper Eminem whose rocky relationship with her son was known widely through his song lyrics, has died. She was 69. Eminem’s longtime representative Dennis Dennehy confirmed Nelson’s death in an email on Tuesday. He did not provide a cause of death, although Nelson had battled lung cancer. Nelson’s fraught relationship with her son, whose real name is Marshall Mathers III, has been no secret since the Detroit rapper became a star. Nelson brought and settled two defamation lawsuits over Eminem’s statements about her in magazines and on radio talk shows. In her 2008 book, “My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem,” she attempted to set the record straight.WASHINGTON (AP) — Rep. Jerry Nadler announced Wednesday that he will be stepping down as the top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee next year, avoiding an intra-party fight over a prominent position as the party prepares to confront a second Trump presidency. Nadler's decision to relinquish control of the powerful committee came a day after fellow Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin announced his bid for the job and quickly amassed support from colleagues. “I am also proud that, under my leadership, some of our caucus’s most talented rising stars have been given a platform to demonstrate their leadership and their abilities,” Nadler wrote in the letter to Democrats that was obtained by The Associated Press. “That includes Jamie Raskin, who in just a few terms in Congress has already proven himself to be an exceptional leader and spokesperson for our party’s values.” The 77-year-old chose to step aside as the Democratic party undergoes an internal reckoning over their losses in the election, which swept Republicans into a trifecta of power in Washington. Many Democrats are eager for generational change and a new approach as President-elect Donald Trump returns to the White House. The decision by Nadler, who is serving his 17th term in Congress, reflects that generational shift. Before he made his decision Wednesday morning, Nadler spent time speaking with staff about what his next step should be. He also made a call to Raskin, which was described as cordial by a person familiar with the conversation who was not authorized to discuss it publicly. “Jerry Nadler is an extraordinary lawyer, patriot and public servant,” Raskin posted on X. “His dogged defense of civil rights and civil liberties is a great inspiration to our people.” He added, “I am honored and humbled to have his support in the battles ahead.” Farnoush Amiri, The Associated Press

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Dollar General ( NYSE:DG – Get Free Report ) had its price target lifted by investment analysts at BMO Capital Markets from $80.00 to $84.00 in a report issued on Friday, Benzinga reports. The firm presently has a “market perform” rating on the stock. BMO Capital Markets’ target price suggests a potential upside of 2.95% from the company’s current price. DG has been the topic of several other research reports. UBS Group reduced their price objective on shares of Dollar General from $155.00 to $108.00 and set a “buy” rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, August 30th. Evercore ISI lowered their price target on shares of Dollar General from $97.00 to $95.00 and set an “in-line” rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, December 3rd. Sanford C. Bernstein began coverage on shares of Dollar General in a research note on Tuesday, October 22nd. They issued an “outperform” rating and a $98.00 price objective on the stock. Oppenheimer restated a “market perform” rating on shares of Dollar General in a report on Monday, August 26th. Finally, Daiwa America downgraded Dollar General from a “moderate buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a report on Wednesday, September 4th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, fourteen have assigned a hold rating, eight have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company’s stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of “Hold” and an average price target of $98.27. Get Our Latest Stock Report on Dollar General Dollar General Stock Performance Dollar General ( NYSE:DG – Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, December 5th. The company reported $0.89 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.97 by ($0.08). The firm had revenue of $10.18 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.14 billion. Dollar General had a net margin of 3.57% and a return on equity of 20.62%. Dollar General’s revenue for the quarter was up 5.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $1.26 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts forecast that Dollar General will post 5.78 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Insider Buying and Selling In related news, EVP Steven R. Deckard sold 2,010 shares of Dollar General stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, September 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $86.66, for a total value of $174,186.60. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 2,887 shares in the company, valued at approximately $250,187.42. The trade was a 41.05 % decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink . Also, EVP Roderick J. West sold 2,510 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction on Thursday, September 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $83.25, for a total value of $208,957.50. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 9,163 shares in the company, valued at approximately $762,819.75. The trade was a 21.50 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . 0.49% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Dollar General Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Wilmington Savings Fund Society FSB bought a new stake in Dollar General during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $33,000. Studio Investment Management LLC grew its position in Dollar General by 117.7% during the second quarter. Studio Investment Management LLC now owns 283 shares of the company’s stock worth $37,000 after buying an additional 153 shares in the last quarter. Strategic Financial Concepts LLC bought a new stake in shares of Dollar General during the 2nd quarter valued at about $37,000. TruNorth Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Dollar General during the 2nd quarter valued at about $39,000. Finally, Quarry LP purchased a new position in shares of Dollar General during the second quarter worth about $46,000. 91.77% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Dollar General Company Profile ( Get Free Report ) Dollar General Corporation, a discount retailer, provides various merchandise products in the southern, southwestern, midwestern, and eastern United States. It offers consumable products, including paper and cleaning products, such as paper towels, bath tissues, paper dinnerware, trash and storage bags, disinfectants, and laundry products; packaged food comprising cereals, pasta, canned soups, fruits and vegetables, condiments, spices, sugar, and flour; and perishables that include milk, eggs, bread, refrigerated and frozen food, beer, and wine. Read More Five stocks we like better than Dollar General What Percentage Gainers Tell Investors and Why They Don’t Tell the Whole Story Fast-Growing Companies That Are Still Undervalued 3 Grocery Stocks That Can Help Take a Bite Out of Inflation Top Cybersecurity Stock Picks for 2025 What Does a Gap Up Mean in Stocks? How to Play the Gap Archer or Joby: Which Aviation Company Might Rise Fastest? Receive News & Ratings for Dollar General Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Dollar General and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

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NoneHoliday cooking can feel like a high-stakes game, especially when juggling multiple dishes, guests with dietary restrictions, and kids who just won't listen when you say, "Get out of the kitchen!" As a culinary professional, I know holiday feasts can be as daunting as a busy night on the line, but it doesn't have to be. Recently, I asked the BuzzFeed Community to share with me, a culinary school graduate and experienced cook, what they were worried about while cooking during the holidays. Their responses gave me ample opportunity to offer some advice and kitchen wisdom that might take some stress out of holiday hosting! 1. Q: "I always make WAY too much food. How do you decide which dishes you're going to cook for Thanksgiving? I usually make everything I can think of, and we end up with leftovers until the New Year, but I always worry about pleasing everyone." — rnd13001 A: Thanksgiving leftover sandwiches are one of my favorite parts of the holiday season — but having leftovers until New Year’s? That’s a bit much! As someone with a background in hospitality, I get the desire to take care of everyone and make them happy. But remember, your guests are just that — guests. As the host, focus on making dishes that excite you for the Thanksgiving table. Most people are simply grateful to be welcomed into a home and treated to a meal! Instead of cooking “everything you can think of,” go into the holiday with a plan — or, more specifically, a menu plan. Here’s an example menu: Once you know how many guests to expect, choose an appropriately sized turkey (or whatever main dish you plan to serve). A good rule of thumb is about 1.5 pounds of turkey per person. To keep guests happy while you finish preparing dinner, a cheese and charcuterie board is a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer. For the board, pick one firm cheese like manchego and one soft cheese like Camembert*; add a cured sausage like soppressata, a cured meat like bresaola, and some fall fruits like sliced apples or figs. I prefer serving these with torn or sliced fresh bread rather than a variety of crackers — fresh bread is visually inviting and avoids leaving you with half-empty boxes of stale crackers after the holidays. For the main meal, serving one main dish with three sides, a sauce, and some kind of bread offers guests plenty of options to mix and match without overwhelming yourself. As for dessert, pie is a must on Thanksgiving in my book. When I host, I always bake an apple pie, but desserts are also a great thing to outsource! If a guest offers to bring something, suggesting a dessert is an easy way to lighten your load. *Both cheeses can easily be swapped for plant-based alternatives to accommodate vegan or dairy-free guests! 2. Q: "Every year for Thanksgiving, I cook my family's dressing and deep fry a turkey, and my wife makes her family recipe for carrot puff (it's closer to a sugary dessert that nearly everyone raves about). However, I try to make something different and more innovative each year. For instance, a few Thanksgivings back, I made green bean steamed dumplings with a creamy mushroom sauce (my take on green bean casserole). I am struggling this year to come up with something, and I suspect the family will expect me to produce another different dish, but I am at a loss this season. Any ideas?" —Harry, Alexandria, 51 A: I love having both annual cooking traditions and new, creative dishes at the Thanksgiving table! If you are looking for an unexpected vegetable side dish that is still cozy and indulgent, as all great Thanksgiving dishes should be, I would recommend something like these pomegranate-glazed Brussels sprouts, which I made for Thanksgiving last year. To make Pomegranate-Glazed Brussel Sprouts for 8 people, I trimmed and halved 2 lbs. sprouts and roasted them with roughly 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt on a sheet pan in a 400°F oven for about 30 minutes until tender, giving the pan a shake every 10 minutes or so. While the sprouts roasted, I made the glaze in a saucepan over medium heat, pouring 2 tablespoons of olive oil into the pan. Once the oil began to shimmer, I added a teaspoon of finely minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of ground Aleppo pepper. I stirred to coat the garlic and chili in oil before turning off the heat and adding 1/3 cup of pomegranate molasses and 2 tablespoons of honey. I poured this glaze over the roasted sprouts and tossed them before tasting and seasoning them with more salt. I garnished it with fresh pomegranates and served it! Note: The glaze is delicious but thin, and may pool towards the bottom; make sure to serve with a large spoon to scoop up all that pomegranate-y goodness! 3. Q: "If you could help with dinner rolls that don't come out dense and potato chip-like, I would appreciate it. Thanks." —Harry, Alexandria, 51 A: Let’s make sure your rolls come out fluffy and golden this time! Before you dive into your next bread project, check your yeast. Fresh active dry yeast is key — when activated with warm water, it produces carbon dioxide, which helps the dough rise. Expired yeast, however, won’t do the job, leaving you with a dense, hard dough like the one you're describing. Once you have some fresh yeast, get started on this dinner roll recipe by Tasty. I love it for two reasons: First, it’s an enriched dough, meaning it includes fat and protein-rich ingredients like dairy and eggs. These enrichments enhance the flavor, moisture, and structure, giving the rolls a tender, pillowy texture and a lightly buttery taste. Second, this recipe is quick. It can be made from start to finish in under three hours! For that perfect finishing touch, an egg wash creates a gorgeous golden crust and doubles as a glue for any toppings you’d like to sprinkle on. One reviewer jazzed up their rolls with honey, sesame, and poppy seeds. 98% of people say they would make these rolls again, and the recipe has hundreds of positive reviews. Definitely give this one a shot! 4. Q: "How to make the perfect, basic, 'even a fool couldn't mess up' turkey?" —Karen, Texas, 24 A: Do not let the turkey intimidate you! I find that, as in most things in life, success in the kitchen is 40% knowledge and 60% mindset. Attack prepping and roasting the turkey with confidence, and a plan, and dinner guests will sing your poultry cooking praises! But you want advice from a chef, not a life coach, so here are some practical tips for a good turkey. My first recommendation is to start early. Prepping your turkey a day ahead is the key to juicy, flavorful meat; brining is the magic trick. A brine , either wet or dry, seasons the turkey and helps retain moisture during roasting. For a dry brine (the most effective and easiest method, in my opinion): Rub kosher salt (not table salt, as it's too refined and concentrated) all over a turkey and let it rest uncovered in the fridge overnight. And don't just take my word for why dry-brining is so great; back in 2015, BuzzFeed conducted a blind taste test of turkeys and found dry-brining made the best turkey. For a wet brine: Soak the turkey overnight (up to 24 hours) in a solution of water, salt, and optional seasonings like apple cider vinegar or herbs. While effective in imparting flavor, this method takes more space in the fridge and a bit more effort than a dry brine. I love Samin Nosrat's buttermilk brine method. More turkey tips in the following question! 5. Q: "I’ve been in charge of cooking Thanksgiving dinner since my grandma passed away two years ago. How do I cook the perfect turkey that’s juicy and not dry?" —Anonymous A: As mentioned above, brining is a great first step to making a great turkey, but there are a few additional tricks to keep it moist. One of my favorites is coating the bird in a compound butter.* Rubbing the butter underneath the turkey's skin infuses the meat with flavor and moisture as it cooks. The butter melts and bastes the meat from the inside, while the skin keeps it locked in, preventing it from dripping off. This Tasty recipe breaks down the step-by-step process. *Compound butter is made of soft butter combined with aromatic ingredients, like citrus zest, herbs, and spices. Also, I strongly suggest having a calibrated meat thermometer on hand during roasting. I was taught to cook to temperature, not time, which I always recommend. Depending on the size of your turkey and the oven you're using, the bird may take more or less time than a recipe states. Check the thickest part of the thigh, breast, and wing periodically as the turkey roasts. Poultry should reach 165°F, but pull the bird out at 157-160°F — it will rise to perfection as it rests (we call this carryover cooking ). I like to start roasting my turkey in a hot oven at 425°F for the first 30 minutes, then lower the temperature to 325°F for the remainder of the cooking time. This initial burst of heat helps develop a beautiful, golden exterior while speeding up the cooking process. Lowering the heat afterward ensures the interior cooks evenly and stays moist without overcooking or burning the skin. 6. Q: "What’s the best seasoning for the turkey?" —Anonymous A: When it comes to seasoning your turkey, fresh, woody herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary are classics for a reason — they add depth and warmth that pair beautifully with poultry. Layering herbs with other seasonings is key to a standout savory turkey. Lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy kick, minced garlic for savory richness, and a touch of Dijon mustard to add tang and complexity. Black pepper and kosher salt are essential for bringing out all the flavors, and a hint of nutmeg or allspice can add more warmth and spice that's perfect for the season. There are so many flavor profiles to try; turkey is a savory blank slate, so feel free to get creative! Sumac and coriander? Star anise and soy? Fennel, apple, and allspice? It's your turkey; make it special! 7. Q: "How often should you baste the turkey?" —Anonymous A: Here's my hot take: You don't need to baste your turkey. I'll butter-baste a filet of beef or cod in a pan, but basting doesn't really contribute much moisture or flavor to an oven-roasted turkey. Plus, it can be dangerous! Opening a sweltering oven repeatedly to ladle sizzling fat and juices onto a heavy bird is not worth the risk. Plus, if you're anything like me, once the turkey is in the oven, you'll want to focus on the side dishes. If you are worried about going baste-free, try Martha Stewart's cheesecloth hack. Soak a square of cheesecloth large enough to cover your turkey in butter and white wine, and then cover your brined and buttered turkey in the soaked cheesecloth. The extra layer of fatty protection can help the bird retain moisture while allowing the skin to brown. This method has also gone TikTok-viral in the past few years. 8. Q: "What drink goes best with a Thanksgiving meal?" —Anonymous A: Festive mocktails and cocktails can elevate any Thanksgiving gathering, especially as a pre-dinner treat. The Rosemary Pom Spritzer, featured in our November recipe roundup , is the perfect drink to set the holiday mood. This versatile option can be enjoyed as a mocktail or easily transformed into a cocktail by adding an ounce of gin to the glass. For wine lovers, a dry Riesling or Pinot Grigio are good choices, as both pair beautifully with turkey and often offer great value. If you'd like to offer red wine as well, consider a Beaujolais — a Thanksgiving classic — or Lambrusco, a sparkling red I can only describe as flirty. These selections are sure to delight your guests and complement the holiday feast. 9. Q: "How do you make your own cranberry sauce?" —Anonymous A: I am in the homemade cranberry sauce camp because it is easy to make ahead of the big day, takes just a few minutes and fewer ingredients, and yields a much tastier product than the canned stuff! I make cranberry sauce the same way I make other fruit jams. First, zest and juice two oranges. Then, in a heavy-bottomed* saucepan, I combine one 12-ounce bag of fresh (or frozen) cranberries with a cup of sugar, the orange juice, and a 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. A cinnamon stick or sprig of thyme would add another lovely aroma to this sauce, but it isn't necessary. *Why do I use a heavy-bottomed saucepan? Because sugar can burn quickly when in direct contact with heat (in this case, a gas stove flame), and the thick metal prevents certain parts of the pan from scorching the sauce. 10. Q: "What's the best recipe for a simple pumpkin pie? I have a version that I absolutely love — it's a buttermilk pumpkin pie with streusel topping — but unfortunately, this year, it has been requested that I do something 'simpler.' Should I use my beloved recipe and just leave off the topping, or can you suggest something equally scrumptious?" —Anonymous A: Your special pumpkin pie recipe sounds DELICIOUS! If you have many guests coming, perhaps you could make double the pie filling and serve one pie with the streusel, and one without. While it's nice to accommodate the guests, as the host, you should make the food you want to eat the most! Especially around the holidays! Still, if you're looking to try a different classic pumpkin pie recipe, try this Old-Fashioned Pumpkin Pie . Evaporated milk is the key ingredient in the pumpkin filling, ensuring a luscious custard that holds its shape when cut. While the crust in this recipe uses shortening, you can easily substitute it for butter! What are your holiday cooking questions? Drop your queries and holiday conundrums in the comments or anonymously with this form .

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Pep Guardiola claims three-quarters of the Premier League want to see Manchester City relegated over financial irregularities. But the City boss has vowed to stay on and lift the club back to the top even if they are sent all the way down to the National League. Guardiola ended speculation over his immediate future this week by extending his contract, which had been due to expire at the end of the season, through to the summer of 2027. That has given the club some stability at a time of great uncertainty as they fight 115 charges related to alleged breaches of the Premier League’s financial regulations. City have denied all wrongdoing but their punishment if found guilty could be severe, with demotion even a possibility. Guardiola has strongly defended the club in the past and is happy to continue doing so. The Spaniard said: “I don’t enjoy it, I prefer not to be in that position, but once it’s there I love it because, when you believe in your club, and the people there – I believe what they say to me and the reasons why. “I cannot say yet because we’re awaiting the sentence in February or March – I don’t know when – but at the same time, I like it. “I read something about the situation and how you need to be relegated immediately. Seventy-five per cent of the clubs want it, because I know what they do behind the scenes and this sort of stuff. “I said when all the clubs accused us of doing something wrong, (and people asked) what happens if we are relegated, (I said) I will be here. “Next year, I don’t know the position of the Conference they are going to (put) us, (but) we are going to come up and come up and come back to the Premier League. I knew it then and I feel it now.” The immediate priority for Guardiola, who said his contract negotiations were completed in “just two hours”, is to arrest a run of four successive defeats in all competitions. Yet, ahead of their return to action against Tottenham at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, the champions continue to grapple with a lengthy injury list. Mateo Kovacic is their latest casualty after sustaining a knock on international duty that could keep him out for up to a month. On the positive side, defenders Nathan Ake, John Stones and Manuel Akanji could feature and Jack Grealish is also closing in on a return after a month out. Much to Guardiola’s frustration, Grealish was called up by England for their recent Nations League games, although he later withdrew. Guardiola said: “I want the best for Jack and I want the best for Jack with the national team but the doctor said to me that he was not ready to play. “I know (England) want him but they have 200 players to select from and Jack was not fit. He had to recover from many things.” Kyle Walker played for England against both Greece and the Republic of Ireland despite limited game time since suffering injury in the October international break. Guardiola said: “If he is fit I like him to play in the national team. It is not a problem, don’t misunderstand me. “Kyle has a dream to make 100 caps for the national team. Do I want to cancel this dream? Absolutely not. “But if you are not fit, if you cannot play here, you cannot play for the national team. It is quite obvious.”

ANDOVER, Mass., Dec. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MKS Instruments, Inc. (NASDAQ: MKSI), a global provider of enabling technologies that transform our world, was recognized today as one of America's Most Responsible Companies for 2025 , presented by Newsweek and Statista, Inc. "We are honored to be recognized for the second consecutive year as one of our nation's most responsible companies by Newsweek and Statista,” said John T.C. Lee, President and Chief Executive Officer of MKS. "We are committed to providing our customers with world-leading innovative technology to help them succeed in a manner that also protects our planet and the communities in which we work and live.” The America's Most Responsible Companies ranking analyzes companies through a holistic view of corporate responsibility. An overall score is calculated for each company based on over 30 key performance indicators for the top 2,000 publicly traded U.S. companies by revenue and a public survey of 26,000 U.S. residents evaluating each company's corporate social responsibility reputation. About MKS Instruments MKS Instruments enables technologies that transform our world. We deliver foundational technology solutions to leading edge semiconductor manufacturing, electronics and packaging, and specialty industrial applications. We apply our broad science and engineering capabilities to create instruments, subsystems, systems, process control solutions and specialty chemicals technology that improve process performance, optimize productivity and enable unique innovations for many of the world's leading technology and industrial companies. Our solutions are critical to addressing the challenges of miniaturization and complexity in advanced device manufacturing by enabling increased power, speed, feature enhancement, and optimized connectivity. Our solutions are also critical to addressing ever-increasing performance requirements across a wide array of specialty industrial applications. Additional information can be found at www.mks.com . Contacts: Bill Casey Senior Director, Marketing Communications Telephone: +1 (630) 995-6384 Email: [email protected] Kelly Kerry, Partner Kekst CNC Email: [email protected]

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Iowa Republican U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson defended Iowa Republican U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst against conservative criticism over Ernst’s hesitation to back Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s embattled pick to head the U.S. Department of Defense. Ernst declined Thursday to commit to supporting Hegseth, who faces allegations of sexual impropriety, financial mismanagement, public drunkenness and other personal misconduct. Hegseth has denied the allegations. Asked Friday during a conference call with reporters whether attacks over Ernst advocating for a thorough vetting before confirming Hegseth have been unfair, Hinson called Ernst a “fierce conservative fighter.” U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst talks about Rep. Ashley Hinson during Ashley Hinson’s BBQ Bash at Hawkeye Downs in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024. (Savannah Blake/The Gazette) “She has dedicated her life to serving our Iowans and her country, and it is her constitutional duty to vet all of these nominees thoroughly, and I think that's what she is doing,” Hinson said. “That's what she has pledged to do. And also, by the way, doing some incredible work with DOGE to help cut government waste and abuse there.” People are also reading... Ernst late last month formed a caucus of Senate Republicans to involve Congress in discussions of spending cuts with tech billionaire Elon Musk and former GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. Trump picked the pair to head the new Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, an advisory body to Trump’s incoming administration. Ernst has embraced the DOGE goal of cutting $2 trillion in government spending. “So I can't think of a better person to helm that crucial caucus (and) help President Trump carry out his agenda,” Hinson said. “And I do think that we need to make sure we're giving every single nominee, no matter who it was — she did this in the minority, she is doing this in the majority — a thorough vetting.” Hinson, in a follow-up statement to The Gazette, called Hegseth “a strong pick.” “I was able to hear him speak earlier this week and think he will be a disruptor, end work DEI infecting our military, and cut through the endless bureaucracy at the Pentagon,” Hinson said. Ernst on Hegseth During a Fox News interview, Ernst said she had a “very frank and productive discussion” with Hegseth on Wednesday and that his vetting will continue. Ernst, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the first female combat veteran to be elected to the Senate, is seen as a swing vote and crucial barometer for Hegseth’s support among Senate Republicans. She has been rumored as a possible replacement for the post herself. Hegseth also has been critical of women serving in combat. Republicans will hold a slim 53-47 majority in the U.S. Senate next year, making each of the party’s votes crucial to approving Trump’s nominations to federal agency leadership positions. Ernst, a former officer in the Iowa National Guard and a sexual assault survivor who has made combating sexual assault and harassment in the military a key focus, told Real Clear Politics Phillip Wegmann on Thursday that while she has not yet made up her mind on Hegseth’s nomination, “I don’t have a campaign against Pete.” Ernst also told Real Clear Politics she is not seeking to be secretary of defense. “I’ve known Pete for a very long time,” Ernst said of Hegseth, a former Fox News host and Army National Guard veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. “I really appreciated the time that he took to sit down with me and walk through a number of issues,” Ernst told Real Clear Politics, adding the pair discussed the misconduct allegations during their 45-minute sit-down. Ernst said Hegseth “deserves to have a hearing" before the Senate Armed Services Committee to ”recount his service and rebut any allegations.“ Trump on Friday made his first public show of support for Hegseth since the nominee began meeting with Republican senators amid the misconduct allegations. "Pete Hegseth is doing very well. His support is strong and deep," Trump posted on his social media platform Truth Social. “He was a great student — Princeton/Harvard educated — with a Military state of mind. He will be a fantastic, high energy, Secretary of Defense Defense, one who leads with charisma and skill. Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that,” Trump added. Conservative blowback Trump supporters and MAGA activists took to social media to accuse Ernst of working behind the scenes to sink the President-elect’s nominee, and threatened to support someone to challenger her for the GOP nomination should she run for reelection. Ernst this summer told Iowa reporters she intends to seek reelection to a third term in the Senate in 2026. Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk wrote on X, formerly Twitter: “We are learning a lot about Joni Ernst and the Senate establishment right now. Trump faithful are talking about finding a primary challenger. This is getting very serious.” Republican Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, the first statewide elected official in Iowa to endorse Trump, recently told Breitbart: “What we’re witnessing in Washington right now is a Deep State attempt to undermine the will of the people.” Bob Vander Plaats, president and CEO of the Christian conservative group The Family Leader, posted to X: “Undermining his nomination is to be in denial of America's clear voice in the November 5 election.” House passes Hinson bill on Chinese trade violations The House earlier this week passed a bill Hinson sponsored to aid federal prosecution of trade-related crimes by Chinese companies. Companies based in the People’s Republic of China frequently violate U.S. trade laws, including trade fraud, forced labor and efforts to evade U.S. tariffs, which undermine U.S. companies and workers, Hinson said. Despite the large volume of trade crime-related cases, the U.S. Department of Justice lacks the resources to prosecute these crimes, she said. The legislation, which Hinson co-introduced, would establish a new task force within the Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute trade crimes and would require annual reports to Congress on those efforts. The legislation also would authorize training and technical assistance to other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, “expanding investigations and prosecutions and allowing for parallel criminal and civil enforcement action,” Hinson said. “While tariffs are one tool in our tool kit to level the playing field, we also must enforce our trade laws and hold China accountable for repeated violations that have a catastrophic impact on American workers and industry,” Hinson told reporters Friday. Hinson cited the example of a Chinese auto manufacturer that was shipping its products to Thailand to avoid U.S. customs duties. She said the ripple effect led to layoffs at an Illinois company. “This is far from the only Chinese company taking action to exploit our trade system to bolster China's nonmarket economy, but this is crippling American industry and manufacturing, again, threatening workers wages and livelihoods and enabling slave labor in China,” Hinson said. Hinson said cracking down on unfair trade practices will help boost domestic manufacturing. Hinson, a Republican from Marion, serves on the House Select Committee on China and hopes to remain on the committee when the new Congress convenes in January. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.Beyond Meat Inc. stock rises Friday, outperforms market

Southwest Airlines Co. Announcement: Southwest Airlines Co. Investors Are Encouraged To Contact The Rosen Law Firm About Ongoing Investigation Of Breaches Of Fiduciary Duties By The Directors And Officers LUVWINNIPEG — The Manitoba government is looking to bring in tougher penalties on people who are convicted of impaired driving offences that cause injury or death. A bill currently before the legislature would impose a lifetime licence suspension on a driver convicted of two such offences within a 10-year period. That's an increase from the current 10-year suspension. The bill would also prohibit people convicted of these offences from driving with any alcohol in their blood for seven years for a first offence. The bill was introduced on the last sitting day of the fall legislature session and is expected to be debated in the spring. The legislature is scheduled to reconvene on March 5. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 5, 2024. Steve Lambert, The Canadian Press

NoneWhy UnitedHealthcare is a four-letter word to criticsSeattle (7-5) at Arizona (6-6) Sunday, 4:05 p.m. EST, CBS BetMGM NFL Odds: Cardinals by 2 1/2. Series record: Seahawks lead 28-22-1. Against the spread: Seahawks 5-6-1, Cardinals 8-4. Last meeting: Seahawks beat Cardinals 16-6 on Nov. 24, 2024, in Seattle. Last week: Seahawks beat Chargers, 26-21; Cardinals lost to Vikings, 23-22. Seahawks offense: overall (16), rush (28), pass (2), scoring (15). Seahawks defense: overall (18), rush (21), pass (12), scoring (12). Cardinals offense: overall (11), rush (6), pass (22), scoring (17). Cardinals defense: overall (17), rush (13), pass (18), scoring (11). Turnover differential: Seahawks minus-6, Cardinals minus-1. DT Leonard Williams has been one of the most dominant players in the league over the past two weeks. Williams had 2 1/2 sacks, four tackles for loss and three quarterback hits two weeks ago against the Cardinals. Williams sacked Aaron Rodgers twice and scored his first career touchdown on a 92-yard pick-6. QB Kyler Murray has had some good moments over the past two games and completed 31 of 45 passes for 260 yards and a touchdown against the Vikings. But he also threw two interceptions in the fourth quarter which proved costly. QB Geno Smith vs. Arizona's defense. Smith has had another solid season and now he'll face an Arizona defense that's been vastly improved over the past 1 1/2 months. The Cardinals have been much more productive in the pass rush with 23 sacks over the past six games. That ranks third in the NFL over that span. Coach Mike Macdonald said he is optimistic that P Michael Dickson (back spasms) will be able to play this weekend, but bringing in another punter this week is “on the table.”.. LB Uchenna Nwosu has a chance to play this week. Nwosu missed the first four games of the season with a knee injury, then injured his thigh in his first game back in Week 5, and has been on injured reserve since. ... The Cardinals are relatively healthy. DLs Darius Robinson (calf) and Dante Stills (back) have been limited in practice this week. The Seahawks have won six straight games in the series going back to 2022. The Cardinals last won 23-13 on Nov. 21, 2021. The Cardinals haven't won at home against the Seahawks since 2020. The Seahawks' next win will be the 400th in franchise history. ... Since Week 9, Seattle’s defense ranks fifth in the NFL with 17.5 points allowed per game, 299 yards allowed per game, and 84.3 rushing yards allowed per game, while ranking sixth in the league with 18.8 first downs allowed. ... The Seahawks have two pick-6s in the past two games, the first time the team has done so since 2012. ... The Seahawks have held three straight opponents to under 300 yards, and fewer than 100 rushing yards. ... Seattle has outscored its opponents by 37 points in the final two minutes of halves this season, the best in the NFL. .. WR DK Metcalf needs one receiving TD to pass Steve Largent for the most in a player’s first six seasons in franchise history with 47. ... Smith needs one 300-yard game to tie Russell Wilson for the most 300-yard games in a single season in franchise history with five. ... WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba Needs 171 yards for his first 1,000-yard season, and to become the 10th player in franchise history to reach that mark. ... Arizona has won three straight games at home. The Cardinals outscored those opponents 77-30 while scoring nine touchdowns and allowing none. ... TE Trey McBride has caught 12 passes in two straight games, which is the first time a tight end has had at least 12 receptions in two straight games in NFL history. ... Arizona's six losses have come to teams with a combined 55-18 record this season entering Week 14. ... S Budda Baker has 114 tackles this season, which ranks sixth in the league. ... McBride's caught 73 passes this season. He needs just nine more catches over the next five games to break his franchise record for a tight end. ... WR Marvin Harrison Jr. has caught seven TD passes this season, which leads all NFL rookies. ... The Cardinals have been flagged for 61 penalties this season, which is the fewest in the NFL. But the team was flagged 10 times in last week's loss to the Vikings. Arizona's defense is a strong play at home. The Cardinals are giving up just 17 points per game at State Farm Stadium, which is second in the league behind Pittsburgh. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflStock market today: Wall Street gains ground as it notches a winning week and another Dow record

AP Trending SummaryBrief at 11:43 p.m. ESTMax Brooks scores 26 points and UMass-Lowell secures 92-83 victory over DartmouthDallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic was the victim of a home burglary that occurred on Friday night, continuing a string of break-ins at notable athletes' houses. The Dallas Morning News reported that about $30,000 worth of jewelry was taken. "No one was home at the time, and thankfully Luka and his family are safe," Doncic's business manager Lara Beth Seager told ESPN and The Stein Line. "Luka has filed a police report, and an investigation is ongoing." It's been a rough week for Doncic, who is expected to miss at least one month after straining his left calf during a 105-99 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday. Dallas is 7-2 in games that Doncic has missed this season. Athletes have been targets of burglaries as of late, as Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, Cincinnati Bengals signal-caller Joe Burrow, Minnesota Timberwolves veteran guard Mike Conley and Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis have all had their homes broken into since the start of September. Both the NFL and NBA have told players to be on the lookout while stressing the importance of added security to their residences. Doncic, 25, has averaged 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, 7.8 assists and 2.0 steals in 22 games (all starts) this season. --Field Level Media/Reutersokbet online 。

Home of Mavericks star Luka Doncic is burglarized

NEW YORK , Nov. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report with the AI impact on market trends - The global strategy consulting market size is estimated to grow by USD 121.2 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 23.3% during the forecast period. Rising need for improved customer digital experience is driving market growth, with a trend towards consulting firm selection process. However, increased risks related to data security and privacy poses a challenge. Key market players include A.T. Kearney Inc., Accenture Plc, Bain and Co. Inc., Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp., Boston Consulting Group Inc., Capgemini Service SAS, CGI Inc., Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Ltd., Ernst and Young Global Ltd., Infosys Ltd., International Business Machines Corp., KPMG International Ltd., Marsh and McLennan Companies Inc., McKinsey and Co., Oracle Corp., PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Roland Berger Holding GmbH, Tata Consultancy Services Ltd., and The Hackett Group Inc.. AI-Powered Market Evolution Insights. Our comprehensive market report ready with the latest trends, growth opportunities, and strategic analysis- View Free Sample Report PDF Key Market Trends Fueling Growth The strategy consulting market is thriving with trends like management consulting, staff optimization, and corporate sustainability. Consulting firms provide expert advice on digital business models, digital strategy, business model innovation, and digital transformation. SaaS, intelligent automation, artificial intelligence, IoT, Blockchain, and disruptive technologies are shaping the future of professional services. Security concerns are a major focus, including data security, data breaches, and cyber security regulations. Healthcare, ecommerce, and customer purchasing patterns are driving innovation. Strategy consulting services offer domain expertise in areas like organizational strategy, economic policy, IT and telecommunication, and customer relationship management. Risk management is crucial, with risk identification and assessment being key components. Strategy consultants help large enterprises make high-level decisions, develop operational strategies, and leverage digital channels for brand experience. Consultants bring valuable insights to startup projects and offer assurance technology platforms and digital transaction management solutions. Strategy consulting firms face new challenges in the market as customers shift towards online research for selecting consultants. With the availability of fast and cost-effective Internet databases, clients can easily identify subject-matter experts (SMEs) based on their specific requirements. This trend eliminates the traditional reliance on referrals and hiring based on domain expertise. Even well-established firms with long-standing reputations can be overshadowed by smaller businesses offering specialized knowledge. The consulting industry continues to evolve, requiring firms to adapt to this digital transformation to remain competitive. Insights on how AI is driving innovation, efficiency, and market growth- Request Sample! Market Challenges Strategy consulting services play a crucial role in helping businesses navigate complex challenges. In today's dynamic business landscape, management consulting firms provide expert advice on various areas including staff optimization, corporate sustainability, and digital business models. Digital strategy, business model innovation, and digital transformation are key focus areas. Consulting firms assist large enterprises in adopting disruptive technologies like SaaS, intelligent automation, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Blockchain, and more. However, there are challenges such as security concerns, risk management, and assurance technology platforms. In healthcare, digital transaction management and customer relationship management are essential. Ecommerce and customer purchasing patterns require strategic focus. Professional consultants bring domain expertise to the table, helping organizations make high-level decisions on operational strategies, digital channels, brand experience, and data security. With the increasing importance of cyber security regulations, risk identification and data security breaches are critical issues. Consulting firms also help startups with their projects and provide management training in IT and telecommunication. Cloud-based marketing automation software is a popular solution for managing marketing consulting due to its convenience and cost-effectiveness. However, the use of cloud services comes with risks. Organizations must ensure the security and reliability of cloud providers before transferring confidential information. The loss of data control increases dependency on cloud computing services. The potential for information leakage raises concerns regarding infrastructure security, access control, risk management, auditing and logging, and regulatory and legislative compliance. It is crucial for strategy consulting firms to address these issues to maintain client trust and protect sensitive data. Insights into how AI is reshaping industries and driving growth- Download a Sample Report Segment Overview This strategy consulting market report extensively covers market segmentation by 1.1 Large enterprises 1.2 SMEs 2.1 Business strategy consulting 2.2 Operations consulting 2.3 Investment consulting 2.4 Technology consulting 3.1 North America 3.2 Europe 3.3 APAC 3.4 Middle East and Africa 3.5 South America 1.1 Large enterprises- The large enterprises segment is a significant part of the global strategy consulting market. Companies like McKinsey, Bain and Company, A.T. Kearney, and PricewaterhouseCoopers provide strategy formulation assistance to large enterprises. Strategy consulting offers large businesses a fresh perspective, innovative methods, and a competitive edge. These consulting firms help create sustainable competitive advantage and profitability through forward-looking business strategies. They build alignment within organizations and offer industry-specific solutions for strategic challenges, including market assessment, scenario planning, strategic planning process design, and alliance management. The availability of these services for large enterprises contributes to the growth of this segment. Download complimentary Sample Report to gain insights into AI's impact on market dynamics, emerging trends, and future opportunities- including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 - 2022) Research Analysis Strategy consulting is a specialized area of management consulting that focuses on helping businesses make high-level decisions and develop corporate strategies. In today's rapidly changing business landscape, strategy consulting services are more crucial than ever. Consultants provide expert advice on various aspects of business operations, including staff optimization, corporate sustainability, digital business models, and customer relationship management. As businesses increasingly embrace ecommerce and digital channels, strategy consultants play a vital role in helping them adapt to disruptive technologies and automation. They help identify risks, such as data security breaches and cyber security regulations, and provide solutions to mitigate them. Moreover, strategy consultants bring domain expertise and a deep understanding of customer purchasing patterns to the table. They help businesses optimize their operations, develop operational strategies, and enhance brand experience through cloud-based marketing automation and other digital means. In the era of digital transformation, strategy consulting is essential for businesses looking to stay competitive and thrive in an ever-evolving market. Whether it's navigating complex security concerns or implementing innovative operational strategies, strategy consultants are the trusted advisors businesses turn to for guidance. Market Research Overview Strategy consulting is a specialized area of management consulting that focuses on helping organizations make high-level decisions and develop long-term plans for achieving their business objectives. This can include staff optimization, corporate sustainability, digital business models, and business model innovation. In today's digital age, digital strategy, digital transformation, and the adoption of disruptive technologies such as SaaS, intelligent automation, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Blockchain, and digital transaction management are key areas of focus. Consulting firms provide expert advice and domain expertise to large enterprises and startup projects, assisting with risk management, assurance technology platforms, and professional services. Digital channels, customer purchasing patterns, and ecommerce are also important areas of consideration. Security concerns, including data security, cyber security regulations, and risk identification, are increasingly crucial in the digital landscape. Organizational strategy, economic policy, and IT and telecommunication are additional areas of expertise. Strategy consultants help clients navigate the complexities of digital transformation, providing guidance on operational strategies, brand experience, and information security. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation End-user Large Enterprises SMEs Type Business Strategy Consulting Operations Consulting Investment Consulting Technology Consulting Geography North America Europe APAC Middle East And Africa South America 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio

Santa Clara Vice Mayor Anthony Becker found guilty of leaking 49ers report, perjury

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save Drones for commercial and recreational use have grown rapidly in popularity, despite restrictions on who can operate them and where they can be flown. No-fly zones are enforced around airports, military installations, nuclear plants, certain landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, and sports stadiums during games. Not everybody follows the rules. Sightings at airports have shut down flights in a few instances. Reported sightings of what appear to be drones flying over New Jersey at night in recent weeks have created anxiety among some residents, in part because it is unclear who is operating them or why. Some state and local officials have called for stricter rules to govern drones. After receiving reports of drone activity last month near Morris County, the Federal Aviation Administration issued temporary bans on drone flights over a golf course in Bedminster that is owned by President-elect Donald Trump, and over the Picatinny Arsenal Military Base . The Federal Aviation Administration says the bans are in response to requests from “federal security partners.” Body matching description of missing 84-year-old found in Galloway Township 1 injured in Egg Harbor Township crash Absecon police detain suspect in dollar store robbery Pentagon refutes Van Drew Iran claims as New Jersey officials meet to discuss mystery drones Work on Mike Trout's Vineland golf course completed, but play still more than a year away Could American Airlines bus program lead to more flights at Atlantic City airport? Atlantic City now has more weed shops than casinos with dozens more on the way These South Jersey bars and restaurants have transformed into holiday wonderlands Latest on New Jersey mystery drones: White House officials say there is no threat LGBTQ+ restaurant the ByrdCage to open in Atlantic City in January Questions about Gillian’s Wonderland finances draw angry response from Mita Egg Harbor Township installing 4-way stop signs at troubled intersections Large drones spotted in Philadelphia area as FBI investigates mysterious drone sightings in NJ Egg Harbor City church celebrates its inspiration with 1,700-year-old artifact Bridgeton nursing home barred from Medicaid after NJ comptroller finds fraud and abuse Who regulates drones? The FAA is responsible for the regulations governing their use , and Congress has written some requirements into law. Who enforces the rules? With a 2018 law, the Preventing Emerging Threats Act, Congress gave certain agencies in the Homeland Security and Justice departments authority to counter threats from unmanned aircraft to protect the safety of certain facilities. New drones must be outfitted with equipment allowing law enforcement to identify the operator, and Congress gave the agencies the power to detect and take down unmanned aircraft that they consider dangerous. There is no national security or public safety threat from the drones that have been spotted over the past month in New Jersey, national security spokesperson John Kirby said Thursday during a White House press briefing. The law spells out where the counter-drone measures can be used, including “national special security events” such as presidential inaugurations and other large gatherings of people. What does it take to become a drone pilot? To get a “remote pilot certificate,” you must be at least 16 years old, be proficient in English, pass an aeronautics exam, and not suffer from a ”mental condition that would interfere with the safe operation of a small unmanned aircraft system.” Are drones allowed to fly at night? Yes, but the FAA imposes restrictions on nighttime operations. Most drones are not allowed to fly at night unless they are equipped with anti-collision lights that are visible for at least 3 miles (4.8 kilometers). Are drones a hazard? Over the past decade, pilots have reported hundreds of close calls between drones and airplanes including airline jets. In some cases, airplane pilots have had to take evasive action to avoid collisions. Drones buzzing over a runway caused flights to be stopped at London’s Gatwick Airport during the Christmas travel rush in 2018 and again in May 2023 . Police dismissed the idea of shooting down the drones, fearing that stray bullets could kill someone. Advances in drone technology have made it harder for law enforcement to find rogue drone operators — bigger drones in particular have more range and power. Will drone rules get tougher? Some state and local officials in New Jersey are calling for stronger restrictions because of the recent sightings, and that has the drone industry worried. Scott Shtofman, director of government affairs at the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International, said putting more limits on drones could have a “chilling effect” on “a growing economic engine for the United States.” For the past month, drones have been spotted all over the state. Authorities have not said where they are coming from. Here is what we know about the drones and the investigation into them. “We would definitely oppose anything that is blindly pushing for new regulation of what are right now legal drone operations,” he said. AirSight, a company that sells software against “drone threats,” says more than 20 states have enacted laws against privacy invasion by drones, including Peeping Toms. Will Austin, president of Warren County Community College in New Jersey, and founder of its drone program, says it's up to users to reduce public concern about the machines. He said operators must explain why they are flying when confronted by people worried about privacy or safety. “It's a brand new technology that's not really understood real well, so it will raise fear and anxiety in a lot of people,” Austin said. “We want to be good professional aviators and alleviate that.” Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.German Vice Chancellor Flew All The-Way To Kenya to Stop Construction of Russian-Backed Nuclear Power Plant Plan

Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan to enter 2025 NFL DraftFollowing a restructure and review John Sanday, a former Flying Fijian, has been elected as Chairman of the Fiji Rakavi Football Union ("FRU"), along with a new Board of Trustees. The new FRFUL Board members are Mosese Naivalu - Legal Director, John Sanday - Commercial Director, Tevita Tuiloa - Commercial Director, Cathy Wong - Women's Director, Koli Sewabu - Rugby Director, Conway Beg - Rugby Director and Anare Manulevu - Finance Director. They replace the interim Trustees Board chaired by Peter Mazey. After 20 years of uncertain times, including questions about financial management, local rugby unions expressed hope that the new Board and the restructure will further develop Fijian rugby. When speaking to RNZ Pacific , Sanday said he was excited about the new challenge and working with all stakeholders in moving Fiji Rugby forward. Sanday outlined a number of areas that required urgent attention, including: Sanday said his main focus as Chairman was to serve and to listen. In particular to challenges faced by Member Unions. Sanday told RNZ Pacific that the FRU's financial position had improved and was currently stable, compared to 2022, in which it operated at a FJD$1.5 million loss. He said that the biggest challenge for the Board was managing the ever-increasing cost of expanding and strengthening Fiji Rugby, while remaining financially sustainable. Sanday suggested that this was a problem around the world, as teams compete for a limited pool of sponsorship. He acknowledged the Fijian Diaspora, and their unmatched passion for the Fijian national team. He noted that merchandise sales to Fijians around the world helps contribute to keeping the FRU and the team sustainable. The Board hope to "harness the patriotism" of Fijians abroad through better online media content and annual subscriptions. Sanday also commented that the Board's objective was to develop local coaches, to eventually take over the Drua and National Team. Finally, Sanday acknowledged that member clubs were the "backbone" of Fijian Rugby. He said that more energy would be expended engaging with clubs and unions to strengthen relationships and foster the growth of the game at every level.