"Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum." Section 1.10.32 of "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum", written by Cicero in 45 BC "Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam aliquam quaerat voluptatem. Ut enim ad minima veniam, quis nostrum exercitationem ullam corporis suscipit laboriosam, nisi ut aliquid ex ea commodi consequatur? Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem eum fugiat quo voluptas nulla pariatur?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" Thanks for your interest in Kalkine Media's content! To continue reading, please log in to your account or create your free account with us.LA Galaxy win record 6th MLS CupCOLLEGE PARK, Md. (AP) — Tafara Gapare scored 19 points, freshman Derik Queen had 15 points and eight rebounds and Maryland beat Bucknell 91-67 on Wednesday night. Maryland opened the game on a 15-2 run, extended it to 25-7 with 10:38 left and led 51-28 at the break. The Terrapins led by at least 16 points the entire second half, which included runs of 12-0 and 9-0. Gapare scored the 10 straight points during the second-half run. Gapare threw down a highlight dunk while being fouled with 2:08 remaining to give Maryland an 89-62 lead. He was called for a technical foul after stepping over Patrick O’Brien, who was attempting to take a charge. Jayden Williams made the two free throws for Bucknell and Gapare missed his free-throw attempt that would have tied his career high of 20 points. Maryland (6-1) has won 20 consecutive home games against unranked nonconference foes with its last loss coming on Dec. 1, 2021, against Virginia Tech in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge. Julian Reese added 14 points and Selton Miguel scored 13 for Maryland. Gapare, a Georgia Tech transfer, reached double-figure scoring as a Terp for the first time. The Terrapins shot 50% from the field with three 3-pointers apiece by Gapare and Miguel. Ruot Bijiek led Bucknell (4-4) with 20 points and Josh Bascoe added 10. The Bison turned it over 20 times leading to 22 Maryland points. Maryland stays at home to play Alcorn State on Sunday. Bucknell returns home to play Siena on Saturday. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball
Finding the perfect gift can be daunting. The only way to truly ensure you get it right would be to ask the recipient what they want, but that wouldn’t be much fun for either of you. Luckily, there’s another tactic to help you earn a “gift whisperer” reputation: seeking out unique, practical, game-changing gifts that will truly surprise and delight. But that’s about as easy as it sounds, which is to say it’s not easy at all. So, we’ve done the legwork for you. Start making your list with this compilation of some of the most innovative, functional and fun gifts of 2024. There’s something for every budget. This image provided by FinaMill shows the FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder Set. The new FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder set elevates the pedestrian pepper and spice mill in both function and style. A pepper grinder, really? Bear with me: The new FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder set elevates the pedestrian pepper and spice mill in both function and style. Available in three colors (Sangria Red, Midnight Black and Soft Cream), the rechargeable-battery unit grinds with a light touch rather than hand-tiring twists. That’s easier for everyone and especially helpful for those experiencing hand or wrist issues such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis. And it’s fun to use. The set includes a stackable storage tray and four pods that can be easily swapped as needed: The GT microplane grater for hard spices, nuts and chocolate; the MAX for large spices and dried herbs; the ProPlus for smaller and oily spices; and the Pepper Pod for, well, pepper. $110. People are also reading... This image provided by Pull Start Fire shows the matchless fire igniter in use. Made of 89% recycled materials, the food-safe, eco-friendly, 3-by-2-by-1-inch fire starters will light a fire quickly without matches, lighters or kindling. To build a fire Campers and backyard firepit lovers who have experienced the heartbreak of wet wood will appreciate having a three-pack of Pull Start Fire on hand. Made of 89% recycled materials, including sanding dust, wax and flint, the food-safe, eco-friendly, 3-by-2-by-1-inch fire starters will light a fire quickly without matches, lighters or kindling. Just loop the attached green string around a log, incorporate it into a wood stack, and pull the attached red string to ignite. Each windproof, rainproof block burns for 30 minutes. $29.99. This image provided by Souper Cubes shows No Mess Utensils held upright on pot edges. The No Mess Utensil lives up to its name. The utensils, a serving spoon and a ladle, have innovative, S-shaped handles designed to rest on the edge of a pot. The place for a ladle is on the pot The No Mess Utensil Set from Souper Cubes , a company known for its portioned, silicone freezer trays, lives up to its name. The utensils — a serving spoon and a ladle — have innovative, S-shaped handles designed to rest on the edge of a pot, keeping them upright so they won’t slip in. The design also eliminates the need for a spoon rest or, worse, placing dirty utensils on the kitchen counter or stovetop between stirs. A silicone coating in a choice of Aqua, Charcoal, Cranberry or Blueberry keeps handles cool to the touch. $24.99. This image provided by FeatherSnap shows a female cardinal bird perched on a FeatherSnap Wi-Fi Solar Powered Camera Smart Bird Feeder. Equipped with an HD camera, the dual-chamber feeder enables up-close livestreaming of avian visitors, as well as species-logging via the free mobile app. Up your birdwatching with this feeder The FeatherSnap Wi-Fi smart bird feeder could turn anyone into an avid birdwatcher. Equipped with an HD camera, the dual-chamber feeder enables up-close livestreaming of avian visitors, as well as species-logging via the free mobile app. An optional premium subscription ($59.99 annually or $6.99 monthly) includes unlimited photo and video storage, AI identification with species-specific details, and the opportunity to earn badges for logging new visitors. Turn on notifications to get alerts sent to your phone whenever there’s activity at the feeder. $179.99. This image provided by FUJIFILM North America Corporation and FUJIFILM Corporation Tokyo shows a smartphone printer. Fujifilm Instax's Mini Link 3 smartphone printer offers a touch of nostalgia without sacrificing technology. Just load the printer with film and connect it to your Android or iOS device via Bluetooth to print wallet-size photos. Printing old-fashioned photos via Bluetooth Fujifilm's Instax Mini Link 3 smartphone printer offers a touch of nostalgia without sacrificing technology. Just load the 4.9-by-3.5-by-1.3-inch printer with Instax Mini instant film and connect it to your Android or iOS device via Bluetooth to print wallet-size photos. If you want to get fancy, you can adjust brightness, contrast and saturation, or apply filters, including 3D augmented-reality effects, via the free Instax Mini Link app. It can also make collages of up to six images, or animate photos to share on social media. Available in Rose Pink, Clay White and Sage Green. $99.95. This image provided by easyplant shows a Marxii Calathea plant in a small, beige, self-watering pot. The appropriately named easyplant is one of the best gifts you can give your houseplant-loving friends, regardless of their experience level. Houseplants don't get much easier than this The appropriately named easyplant is one of the best gifts you can give your houseplant-loving friends, regardless of their experience level. Select a pot color, size and plant (or get recommendations based on sunlight requirements, pet friendliness and other attributes) and fill the self-watering container’s built-in reservoir roughly once a month. Moisture will permeate the soil from the bottom as needed, eliminating the often-fatal consequences of over- or under-watering. It’s also a literal lifesaver come vacation time. $49-$259. This image provided by Nama shows the M1 plant-based milk maker. If you've got a no-dairy friend on your list, a plant-based milk maker could save them money while allowing them to avoid unnecessary ingredients like sugar, stabilizers, thickeners and preservatives. Making your own (plant-based) milk If you’ve got a no-dairy friend on your list, a plant-based milk maker could save them money while allowing them to avoid sugar, stabilizers, thickeners and preservatives. The Nama M1 appliance both blends and strains ingredients, converting nuts, seeds, grains or oats into velvety-smooth milk in just one minute, with zero grit. And for zero waste, the pasty leftover pulp can be used in other recipes for added nutrients. The device also makes infused oils, flavored waters and soups. And, importantly, cleanup is easy. Available in white and black. $400. This image provided by QelviQ shows a wine bottle chiller. For friends who prefer stronger beverages, the QelviQ personal sommelier uses "smart" technology to ensure wine is served at its ideal temperature. The perfect temperature for 350,000-plus wines For friends who prefer stronger beverages, the QelviQ personal sommelier uses “smart” technology to ensure wine is served at its ideal temperature. Unlike traditional wine refrigerators, this device doesn’t take up any floor space. It also doesn’t chill wine to just one or two temperatures based on its color. Instead — paired with the free QelviQ app — the tabletop chiller relies on a database of more than 350,000 wines to bring a bottle to its specific recommended serving temperature in as little as 20 minutes. It also suggests food-wine and wine-food pairings. Plus, the appliance serves as a great icebreaker to inspire dinnertime conversation. Available in Exciting Red, Dashing Black and Dreamy White. $495. Casting light on the grill after dark This image provided by Uncommon Goods shows a 2-piece LED Grilling Tool Set. Uncommon Good's 2-piece LED Grilling Tool Set puts illumination into the handles of its stainless-steel spatula and tongs. Grilling food after dark — and ascertaining its doneness — can prove challenging without outdoor lighting, and it’s nearly impossible to cook while holding a flashlight. But as is often the case, the simplest of solutions can make the biggest of impacts: Uncommon Good’s 2-piece LED Grilling Tool Set puts illumination into the handles of its stainless-steel spatula and tongs. After use, the lights can be removed and the utensils run through the dishwasher. $40. 10 hot-ticket gifts we predict will sell out on Black Friday 2024 Best Black Friday deals: When to shop, what to buy and what to skip Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Satisfy your cravings With our weekly newsletter packed with the latest in everything food.
US announces nearly $1 bn in new military aid for UkraineNew Hampshire reels off 27-straight points in 27-9 win over Maine
The Wide Angle: Small town Santa helpers now more than most
NEW YORK (AP) — Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Jose D. Hernandez was suspended for next year’s Arizona Complex League season on Wednesday following a positive test for boldenone and nandrolone under baseball’s minor league drug program. The 21-year-old Hernandez hit .302 with four homers and 21 RBIs in 26 games this year for the ACL Dodgers. The Venezuelan agreed to a contract with the Dodgers in 2019 that included a $10,000 signing bonus. Twenty players have been suspended this year for positive drug tests, including nine under the minor league program and nine under the new program for minor league players assigned outside the United States and Canada. Two players have been suspended this year under the major league drug program. , a 22-year-old infielder who was considered Cincinnati’s top prospect, missed the first 80 games following a positive test for boldenone. Toronto infielder was suspended for 80 games on June 23 following a positive test for the performance-enhancing drug clomiphene, an announcement made . ___ AP MLB:Assessing Prudential Financial: Insights From 9 Financial Analysts
US announces nearly $1 bn in new military aid for Ukraine(ECNS) -- The Belt and Road Forum on People-to-people Connectivity kicked off on Friday in Nanning, capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, aiming to pool wisdom and strength to promote high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). During the opening ceremony, Ding Zhongli, president of the Western Returned Scholars Association, said that 2024 marks the beginning of the second decade of the development of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He called on more overseas Chinese students to tell BRI stories well and play a vital role in promoting exchanges and mutual learning between China and other civilizations. Guangxi is an important gateway for China's opening-up and its cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries. Data from local customs shows that Guangxi's trade with ASEAN reached 307.65 billion yuan ($ 42 billion ) in the first 10 months of 2024, a 15.5 percent increase year-on-year. 2024 is also designated as the China-ASEAN Year of People-to-People Exchanges. Ong Tee Keat, president of the Belt and Road Initiative Caucus for Asia Pacific, stressed in his keynote speech that more BRI programs of in-depth people engagement can be tailor-made to suit the local conditions of ASEAN countries that have agreed to build a community of shared future with China. He also pointed out that more new drivers for economic growth and sociocultural engagement are emerging from time to time as the China-ASEAN partnership is steadily evolving and progressing with the changing regional dynamics and developmental needs. According to Hein Khaing, director of China Studies Institute (Myanmar), the key to promote people-to-people connectivity between China and ASEAN countries is to enhance the building of a community of shared future and an independent knowledge and discourse system of the two sides. Sharlene May Cua, vice president of Philippine Association for Chinese Studies, noted that culture and language mutual learning as well as e-commerce business development through e-commerce platforms and social media channels are the kinds of people-to-people exchanges that China and the Philippines need. In 2013, China proposed building a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future and launched the BRI. Since then, bilateral exchanges and cooperation have intensified, covering tourism, education, culture, sports, and more. This forum is organized by the Western Returned Scholars Association. It has attracted more than 150 political, business and academic representatives from BRI partner countries in southeast Asia, as well as experts, scholars, and representatives from the association and in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.
HOUSTON (AP) — Addison Patterson's 25 points helped Northwestern State defeat Houston Christian 64-57 on Saturday night. Patterson also added five rebounds and three steals for the Demons (5-5, 2-0 Southland Conference). Jon Sanders shot 5 of 9 from the field, including 2 for 4 from 3-point range, and went 5 for 5 from the line to add 17 points. Willie Williams shot 5 of 6 from the field to finish with 10 points, while adding 11 rebounds. Bryson Dawkins finished with 13 points for the Huskies (3-7, 1-1). D'Aundre Samuels added nine points for Houston Christian. Julian Mackey also had nine points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by and data from .Angela Rayner to ride roughshod over planning laws in bid to meet new homes target and thwart protests by Nimby neighboursFellow politicians and family members have paid tribute to former US president Jimmy Carter, who died on Sunday afternoon, aged 100. The centenarian and Nobel Peace Prize winner , surrounded by his family, the Carter Center said. The current US president and first lady paid tribute, calling him "an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian" as well as a "dear friend". In a statement, they added: "But, what's extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well." The incoming US president Donald Trump, who takes office on 20 January, said: "The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country, and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. "For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude." Fellow Democrat Barack Obama honoured Mr Carter's achievements in the White House, including "the Camp David Accords he brokered that reshaped the Middle East... nominating a pioneering women's rights activist and lawyer named Ruth Bader Ginsburg to the federal bench... [and] becoming one of the first leaders in the world to recognise the problem of climate change". He also paid tribute to the "longest, and most impactful, post-presidency in American history", during which he monitored more than 100 national elections, helped virtually eliminate Guinea worm disease, and built or repaired thousands of homes around the world with his wife Rosalynn as part of Habitat for Humanity. Mr Bush said his predecessor "dignified the office". "And his efforts to leave behind a better world didn't end with the presidency. His work with Habitat for Humanity and the Carter Center set an example of service that will inspire Americans for generations." Former president Bill Clinton, who worked with Jimmy Carter after he left the White House, and secretary Hillary Clinton said he "lived to serve others - until the very end". "From his commitment to civil rights as a state senator and governor of Georgia; to his efforts as president to... secure peace between Egypt and Israel at Camp David; to his post-presidential efforts at the Carter Center supporting honest elections, advancing peace, combating disease, and promoting democracy... he worked tirelessly for a better, fairer world," they said in a statement. Mr Gore praised Jimmy Carter for living "a life full of purpose, commitment and kindness" and for being a "lifelong role model for the entire environmental movement". In his tribute, Sir Keir said Mr Carter "redefined the post-presidency with a remarkable commitment to social justice and human rights at home and abroad". The UK's monarch said he learned of President Carter's death with "great sadness", adding that he was "a committed public servant, and devoted his life to promoting peace and human rights". The King added: "His dedication and humility served as an inspiration to many, and I remember with great fondness his visit to the United Kingdom in 1977. "My thoughts and prayers are with President Carter's family and the American people at this time." Mr Brown said he was "so sad" to hear of the death of his "good friend". The former UK leader said Mr Carter would be "rightly remembered as a statesman of unimpeachable integrity, who was admired around the world for his lifelong charitable work, his unwavering support for human rights and for his wonderful generosity of sprit". "Throughout his life, Jimmy Carter defended the rights of the most vulnerable people and tirelessly led the fight for peace," the French president wrote on X. "France sends its heartfelt thoughts to his family and to the American people." Mr Zomlot, now ambassador to the UK, said Mr Carter would be "remembered by the Palestinian people as the first US president to advocate for the freedom of Palestine and the first to warn about Israeli apartheid". He added: "He worked for decades to achieve a just and lasting peace in Palestine and the rest of the region." His son, Chip Carter, said: "My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights and unselfish love. "My brothers, sister and I shared him with the rest of the world through these common beliefs. "The world is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honouring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs."
Supreme Court to weigh bans on puberty blockers, hormones for trans teens
New Hampshire reels off 27-straight points in 27-9 win over MaineSometimes going to a Caribbean island just isn’t enough; you need a private Caribbean island escape to fully unplug and recharge. Enter COMO Parrot Cay , an exclusive, secluded fleck of land in Turks and Caicos with miles of white sand beach, lush greenery and a wide variety of accommodations from hotel rooms to sprawling residences for up to 8 guests. Here you can hit the reset button on your daily routine by kayaking through the property’s mangrove forest, booking a pilates session in the property’s open-air exercise studio, or simply enjoying a slice of Neapolitan pizza poolside. This and next year there are also several wellness journeys to guide guests ensuring they don’t just feel good during their time at COMO Parrot Cay, but also when they return home. With many direct flights to Turks and Caicos from the U.S., Canada and the UK, and an easy transfer by boat from the mainland, you can be in your private island paradise relatively quickly, making it the perfect warm-weather escape. COMO Parrot Cay introduced new three-bedroom villas this May which can easily accommodate a family or a group of friends of up to six people. Envision these beachfront accommodations as mini private estates with large indoor and outdoor dining spaces, expansive pools and giant kitchens if you want to have a private alfresco dinner. Each villa comes with butler service and is stocked with your favorite bites and drinks. When you do leave your villa, a visit to the wellness center is essential. You can get a great stretch and workout doing one of their yoga or Pilates classes with a magical view of the ocean and of North Caicos. After exercising, treat yourself to one of their Asian-inspired therapies like an indulgent massage to work out any kinks from traveling. The spa space is massive, blooming with flowers, and features a private cottage, meditation hut and pavilion. You can also sweat and get steamy in their sauna, steam room or outdoor jacuzzi. Guests who want to immerse themselves further in wellness and fitness can book COMO Journeys to deepen their experience. From December 27, 2024 to January 16, 2025 Pilates instructor and postural specialist Amy Buck will be teaching “ Improve Your Posture .” During sessions guests will enjoy a mix of Pilates, clinical somatics, neuromechanics and fascia release, as well as learn about their posture in an analysis screening to assess asymmetries in alignment. Improve your posture and movement by experiencing antigravity fitness inspired by yoga, Pilates and calisthenics. This journey will inform your life far longer than just the duration of your COMO Parrot Cay trip. Every time you stand tall you may have a memory flashback to the island. If you can’t make it to this posture-focused journey, from March 1 to May 15, 2025 certified physiotherapist, Kim Kosters, will be teaching guests how to manage and reduce daily pain. “ Living Pain Free with Kim Kosters ” goes through a variety of treatments and therapies like detox drainage therapy, how to destress Vagus-nerve activation, craniosacral therapy and more. This retreat is especially interesting for those with chronic back pain, as there will also be a one-hour workshop to educate guests on back pain causes and how to reduce them in their daily life. With pristine Caribbean waters and abundant marine life, every guest should also partake in some aquatic excursion while on the island, whether that’s snorkeling near the beach or booking a boat trip to explore the surrounding waters. Turks and Caicos is famous for dolphin sightings, with father and son bottlenose dolphins JoJo and Dreamer enjoying somewhat of a celebrity status in the island archipelago. If you’re lucky they’ll follow your boat and put on a show for you. After a day of activity, there are a variety of dining options that await to satiate your palate. At Lotus, enjoy Asian cuisine with tasty dishes like roasted duck bao and grilled halibut “Hanoi style.” The Terrace features an Italian menu and offers a view of the island. It’s the ideal place to cap off your day with a Negroni and Linguine al Pesce. After a few days of restoring wellness sessions, tasty bites and soaking up Caribbean living on a private island, you’d be hard-pressed to not feel relaxed. COMO Parrot Cay is the ultimate place to unplug and feel refreshed after spending some time in this picture-perfect private island landscape.
The judges of Colorado's federal trial court have voted to give themselves the power to refer lawyers for discipline — potentially resulting in suspension or disbarment — simply for violating individual courtroom protocols. Without explanation, the U.S. District Court amended its local rules effective Dec. 1 to permit judges to impose "additional standards of professional conduct" beyond those contained in the rules of conduct governing the legal profession in Colorado. Previously, Colorado Politics reported that none of the other district courts falling within the jurisdiction of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit has adopted such a broad grant of power for its judges. Attorney Matthew Skeen, U.S. District Court Judges Gordon P. Gallagher and S. Kato Crews, retired U.S. Magistrate Judge Kristen L. Mix and attorney Kevin Homiak speak on a panel about pro bono opportunities for lawyers at Colorado's federal trial court on May 8, 2024. Former U.S. Magistrate Judge Kristen L. Mix, who was on the bench for 16 years before retiring in 2023, said she could understand the desire to enforce more concrete expectations of courtroom professionalism. "Judges get tired of unethical — or borderline unethical — conduct in their courtrooms, especially as the years go by," she said. Colorado's district court sets forth a lengthy list of local rules governing topics as diverse as case assignments, criminal pleas and communications with judges. In addition, each district judge and magistrate judge has practice standards addressing their individual courtroom procedures. But in the latest round of revisions to the local rules, one unidentified district judge proposed empowering each member of the court to set forth their own rules via practice standards that would be grounds for discipline if violated. The proposed change to the U.S. District Court’s local rules in red During the brief window in October for public input, the court received no comments in support and two statements critiquing the proposal in detail. The U.S. Attorney's Office, which handles criminal prosecutions and also represents the federal government in civil cases, warned that lawyers would be subject to "a new set of unpredictable rules" established unilaterally by the two dozen district judges and magistrate judges on the court's bench. Further, it is currently unclear which portions of a judge's practice standards fall into the category of "professional conduct" subject to discipline. "After this amendment, all the judges could, without any process, adopt their own individual practice standards or orders setting professional practice standards," the office argued. "Conduct might be subject to discipline before one judge under that judge’s practice standards even if the same conduct in another courtroom would be permitted." The U.S. Attorney's Office pointed to a related complication: The rule change also lowers the threshold for disciplining lawyers from "clear and convincing evidence" to "a preponderance of the evidence." Taken together, the new rules could encourage the submission of "marginal complaints" that would be harder to dismiss. "We recognize that the Court may have good reasons for seeking additional tools to ensure appropriate behavior by attorneys appearing before the Court, and we don’t wish to interfere with that goal. We believe, however, that additional consideration of the best means to achieve this goal is warranted," the office concluded. Courtesy of U.S. District Court The Alfred A. Arraj U.S. Courthouse in downtown Denver. Damon Davis, an attorney in Mesa County, noted judges can already enforce their expectations by holding people in contempt of court, imposing financial sanctions or ordering attorneys to re-file a motion properly. He called those options a "far more appropriate way" for judges to enforce their expectations compared to a disciplinary process that may result in an attorney's suspension or disbarment. "I would welcome a rule change that allows a judge to impose reasonable sanctions in an individual case, while I oppose a rule that allows an attorney’s entire career to be impacted by the idiosyncratic rule of a single judge found in their practice standards," he wrote. Davis raised further concerns not addressed by the rule change: What happens if a case is reassigned? Could the new judge pursue discipline for conduct that occurred prior to the reassignment? Given the consequences to an attorney's career, rules of conduct "should be well known, well publicized, and universal so that attorneys can be sure of their obligations," he added. At the same time the court updated its local rules, several judges posted amended versions of their individual practice standards. No judge appears to have delineated specific conduct that will be grounds for discipline in their courtrooms. The active and semi-retired senior district judges voted on the court's rule changes. The amendments also clarify that a defendant being sued by a self-represented plaintiff need not respond to a complaint until a judge screens the filing and determines that it states a claim.