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John Dumelo Files Complaint Against Lydia Seyram Alhassan for Alleged Voter BriberyImmigration measures announced as part of Canada’s border response to president-elect Donald Trump’s 25 per cent tariff threat are starting to be implemented, beginning with a ban on what’s known as “flagpoling.” This is when someone who was in Canada on a temporary visa leaves for the U.S. then quickly re-enters Canada to access immigration services at a port of entry. The restriction on providing work and study permits to flagpolers takes effect today. Last week, Immigration Minister Marc Miller said that going forward temporary visa holders will have to apply online to extend their stay in Canada. The Canadian Border Services Agency processed more than 69,300 people who engaged in flagpoling in the 2023-2024 fiscal year. There are still rare exceptions where a person will be granted a work or study permit even though they meet the definition of flagpoling, including international truck drivers with a work permit, professionals under certain free trade agreements and American citizens. Miller first announced the plan to ban the practice on Dec. 17, alongside Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc who promised a border control package worth $1.3 billion. This includes removing the point value for having a job offer in Canada’s express entry immigration system. The stated goal of this change is to reduce and prevent immigration fraud. In a social media post, Miller said this will take effect in the spring and that it will be a temporary measure. A broader review of the express entry program is being conducted, and a future decision on the value of a job offer in that system will be made at that time. A labour market impact assessment, a key document required for an employer to hire a foreign worker, is currently worth 50 to 200 points in the express entry system. Applicants are not supposed to pay for these, but a black market has emerged where people are charging tens of thousands of dollars for these documents. Applications that are already in progress won’t be affected once this change takes effect. Miller also said the government is looking at ways to streamline Canada’s asylum system at that Dec. 17 press conference. This includes exploring options to “quickly deal with” illegitimate claims. The government’s broader border measures plan to respond to Trump’s 25 per cent tariff threat also includes enhanced aerial surveillance and drug detection efforts. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 24, 2025.
MUNICH, Germany, Dec 3 (Reuters) - Bayern Munich's German Cup hopes were ended with Tuesday's 1-0 loss to visitors Bayer Leverkusen in the round of 16 but the team's energy showed great promise, said coach Vincent Kompany. The Bavarians suffered their first defeat of the season in the league and domestic cup and had keeper Manuel Neuer sent off in the 17th minute with a straight red card. But they still had the better chances in the first half despite being a man down with Kingsley Coman, Leon Goretzka and Konrad Laimer all spurning opportunities. Leverkusen struck against the run of play with substitute Nathan Tella's header in the 69th minute to dash Bayern's hopes. "Fact is we lost and we won't win the Cup this season. But with experience we know this was also a special performance from us," Kompany told a press conference. "If this feeling remains we will win many games but this Cup we cannot win it any more," he said. Kompany is in his first season in charge and his team tops the Bundesliga standings with a four-point advantage over second-placed Eintracht Frankfurt. Bayern have also improved in the Champions League after a rocky start this season. "It is bitter for us. We won't have a good evening," Kompany said. "But if this energy remains then we will win many more games. This team can grow further and we will get our moments." Sign up here. Reporting by Karolos GrohmannEditing by Toby Davis Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tabVedanta shares are in focus today, December 4, after Crisil Ratings upgraded its rating on the company's long-term bank facilities and debt instruments from 'AA-' to 'AA'. The upgrade reflects improved capital structure, better financial flexibility, and robust volume growth. Crisil highlighted significant improvement in Vedanta's consolidated operating profitability (EBITDA) and reduced debt and leverage below rating thresholds as key factors behind the revision. This marks Vedanta's second major credit rating upgrade in three months. In September, ICRA also raised Vedanta's long-term credit rating to 'AA' from 'AA-', citing its strengthened credit profile. UK-based Vedanta Resources, the parent of India's Vedanta, has raised USD 800 million from global investors through a new bond issue. The proceeds will be used to prepay the company's outstanding debt due in 2028. In September, Vedanta raised USD 900 million, the company's first dollar bond issue in more than two years, to prepay existing bonds. 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Also Read: Big movers on D-Street: What should investors do with ITC, Mazagon Dock and Sky Gold? On Tuesday, Vedanta's shares closed at Rs 468.3, up 1.75% on the BSE, while the benchmark Sensex surged 0.74%. Its shares have surged 82% in 2024 to date and 50% over the past two years, with the company currently holding a market capitalization of Rs 1,83,143 crore. Also Read: Multibagger stock with over 100% returns in a year trades ex-split on Thursday. Do you own? (Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times) (You can now subscribe to our ETMarkets WhatsApp channel )
Kenny Atkinson , take a bow. The Cavaliers’ new head coach just got his first hardware of the season, named NBA Eastern Conference Coach of the Month for October and November. And honestly? Well-deserved. The guy’s been nothing short of a maestro, leading Cleveland to a ridiculous 18-3 start, tops in the league. Atkinson isn’t one to hog the spotlight, though. Before Thursday’s game against the Wizards, he was quick to deflect credit, calling his team “99% of the reason” for the success. “This is a roster that’s talented, that has great continuity and it’s together,” Atkinson said. “It makes my job a lot easier.” Let’s be real, though — coaching a team to a franchise-best 15-0 start isn’t just about rolling the ball out there. Atkinson’s system has clicked instantly, blending the likes of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland with a rising force in Evan Mobley . And, oh yeah, those 15 straight wins? The longest streak to open a season in Cavaliers history and tied for the second-best start ever in the NBA. Not bad company to keep. Cleveland’s dominance isn’t just in the win column. They’re lighting it up offensively, leading the league in points per game (122.4), field goal percentage (.511), and three-point shooting (.402). So far, it’s been modern basketball nirvana. Sprinkle in some defensive grit — they’re seventh in defensive rating — and you’ve got a team that’s looking like a legitimate title contender. Atkinson might be underselling his own impact, but let’s not. He’s pushed this group to levels we haven’t seen in Cleveland since the days of LeBron James . Six games scoring 130 or more points already? That’s a Cavs record. And with 60-something games left, who knows where this ceiling is. One thing’s clear: Cleveland is cooking, and Atkinson’s got all the right ingredients. More Cavaliers | All coverage from Hoops Wire This article first appeared on Hoops Wire and was syndicated with permission.Stock market today: Wall Street holds near breakeven ahead of Christmas
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Which focal length is best for street and travel photography: 28mm or 35mm? If you've been thinking about buying a compact camera but you're not sure if 28mm or 35mm suits your style better, hopefully, this article will help. In March 2024, I took two compact classics with me to China for a week: the and the . I shot both cameras side by side during an 8-day trip. Although there doesn't seem to be a huge difference with the focal lengths, you'll see through the photos below just how much of a difference 7mm makes. I must confess that I've always been a 35mm guy—or so I thought. Before I bought the Ricoh GR III Diary Edition camera, I'd always loved 35mm-equivalent lenses. The wonderful for Fujifilm X Series is one of my all-time favorite lenses. I'm also a huge fanboy of the X100 line with its 35mm-equivalent focal length. Since the launch of the original X100 in 2010, I've owned every camera in the series apart from the X100S. In March 2024, I impulsively bought the despite telling myself I wouldn't. A week later, I took it and the on a trip to Beijing, Suzhou, and Shanghai. I was looking forward to this match up, as I'd already come to the conclusion that the . It was a lot of fun using both cameras, but I did get a little sick of swapping back and forth all the time. Soon I'll write an article about which of these you should buy, but for now, we're just looking at how the difference in focal length affects different scenes. In the photo comparisons below, the Ricoh 28mm image is on the left, and the Fujifilm 35mm image is on the right. When taking the comparison images, I tried to stay in the same spot for both photos so I could compare and contrast the shots. All images are JPGs, with only minor cropping and exposure corrections in Lightroom. The Ricoh shots used the camera's Positive Film simulation, and the Fujifilm shots used the new Reala Ace simulation. If you're keen to see how Reala Ace stacks up against four other color film sims, make sure you check out my Fstoppers article That's pretty much down to personal taste and the story you'd like to tell. The wider view of 28mm is ideal for street photography as it allows you to tell a more layered story, including more of your surroundings. The 35mm view can be better for focusing on a main subject in an image, with less distraction. The 28mm vs 35mm choice also depends on which camera brand you want to shoot with, as the X100 line is strictly 35mm-equivalent focal length, unless you use the somewhat hefty wide and tele converters. With Ricoh, you have the choice of 28mm equivalent lens on the GR III or 40mm with the . If you'd like to see example street and travel photos with the 40mm lens, make sure you check out . I'll be including all three cameras in an upcoming comparison article. If you'd like to see even more photo comparisons between the and the , make sure you check out the video at the top of this article where I compare more than 50 side-by-side images. After spending a week shooting two compact classics side by side in China, I've gained a deeper appreciation for how these two focal lengths shape storytelling in street and travel photography. I can't help but feel that for fast-moving travel and street photography, 28mm feels more natural for me. It excels at creating a sense of place and including more elements in the frame to build a richer narrative. However, this wider field of view demands careful composition to avoid clutter or distraction. The 35mm focal length seems to shine more when isolating a subject is key. With a slightly narrower view, it helps simplify compositions and can lend immediacy. It's a much better choice for close-up portraits or if you want to focus attention on a specific detail. Ultimately, the best focal length comes down to personal taste, shooting style, the story you want to tell, and which camera brand you like. Both have their strengths, and choosing one over the other depends on what resonates with you as a photographer. Which is your pick for street and travel photography: 28mm or 35mm? Let me know in the comments. Matt Murray is a travel and portrait photographer from Brisbane, Australia. Matt loves shooting with compact cameras: both film and digital. His YouTube features reviews of film cameras, film stocks, and travel photography with the Ricoh GR III, Fujifilm X100V, and Olympus OM-1. See more of Matt's photography and writing on his Substack.
The Pittsburgh Steelers will look to snap their two-game losing streak on Christmas Day, as the team will host the Kansas City Chiefs at Acrisure Stadium in an AFC showdown in Week 17. Pittsburgh suffered a disappointing 34-17 divisional road loss to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 16, which dropped their record to 10-5 on the year. The Steelers' offense has looked out of sorts lately, and the absence of wide receiver George Pickens has been the primary reason for the unit's struggles. Pickens has missed the team's last three games due to a hamstring injury suffered during a practice leading up to Pittsburgh's Week 14 contest versus the Cleveland Browns . The 2022 second-round has hauled in 55 catches for 850 yards and three touchdowns in 12 games this season. Pittsburgh desperately needs Pickens back sooner rather than later, and the team received some good news about the star receiver's status for their Christmas Day matchup versus Kansas City. George Pickens injury update After being a limited participant during Sunday's practice, Pickens was a full participant on Monday and Tuesday and is off the injury report, meaning the 23-year-old will make his return to the lineup in Week 17 versus the Chiefs. Steelers WR George Pickens is off the injury report for Wednesday’s game vs. the Chiefs and good to go. pic.twitter.com/2k9rl8RQ7Z Getting Pickens back will greatly boost the Steelers' offense, as the former Georgia Bulldog is the engine of the passing attack and the primary deep threat. Pickens has averaged 15.5 yards per catch in 2024 and led the league in yards per reception last season (18.1) . In other injury news, backup quarterback Justin Fields is questionable to play with an Abdominal, wide receiver Ben Skowronek is out with a hip injury, and starting cornerback Joey Porter Jr. is also out with a knee injury. MORE PITTSBURGH STEELERS NEWS Ben Roethlisberger explains what makes him 'scared' about Steelers Steelers predicted to select 77-TD, dual-threat quarterback to replace Russell Wilson Giants predicted to bolster offensive line with Steelers $26 million guard
Asteroid nearly hits Earth in Siberia, with a 2nd massive asteroid passing this weekEuro plunges to its lowest for two years Purchasing managers' index at 48.1 in November, down from 50 in September Data sent euro plunging to just above $1.03 versus the dollar This is its lowest since November 2022 By JOHN-PAUL FORD ROJAS Updated: 21:50 GMT, 22 November 2024 e-mail 6 View comments The euro sank to a two-year low against the dollar yesterday as political turmoil in Germany and France dragged the single currency zone's economy into reverse. A closely-watched monthly survey of business activity fell unexpectedly to 48.1 in November, down from 50 in September – on an index where the 50 mark separates growth from contraction. The purchasing managers' index (PMI) data sent the euro plunging to just above $1.03 versus the US currency, its lowest since November 2022. Yields on eurozone government bonds also fell as investors bet on faster interest rate cuts. The European Central Bank has cut rates three times this year to 3.25 per cent amid deepening concerns about lacklustre growth. Markets expect another quarter-point cut next month followed by further reductions taking the rate to 1.75 per cent by the end of 2025. Jane Foley, senior FX strategist at Rabobank, said the euro had taken 'a step closer to parity' with the dollar. Struggle: The purchasing managers' index data sent the euro plunging to just above $1.03 versus the US currency, its lowest since November 2022 However, it was little changed versus the pound, after PMI data for the UK also proved dismal as Labour's tax raid on employers in the Budget took its toll. Sterling was trading at just over €1.20. The eurozone PMI figures showed the services sector going into reverse for the first time in ten months and the decline in the manufacturing sector deepening. Germany, Europe's biggest economy, is in limbo after its coalition government collapsed this month – and elections are not due until February. Meanwhile, revised figures yesterday downgraded third-quarter growth from 0.2 per cent to 0.1 per cent. The country, once a manufacturing powerhouse, is in crisis as demand from China slumps and its vast car industry grapples with the transition to electric vehicles. RELATED ARTICLES Previous 1 Next Brussels warning to White House over 'harmful' tariffs Artificial intelligence to replace workers after Budget,... Share this article Share HOW THIS IS MONEY CAN HELP How to choose the best (and cheapest) stocks and shares Isa and the right DIY investing account Bosch became the latest industrial giant to be hit yesterday, announcing 3,500 job cuts, affecting the part of the company that develops technology for vehicles. US car maker Ford is also cutting thousands of jobs in Germany while Volkswagen, Europe's biggest car maker, is expected to close as many as three factories. In France, hard-Right legislators are threatening to topple prime minister Michel Barnier's fragile coalition in a dispute about the 2025 budget. Adding to the gloom is the fear that Donald Trump's threatened trade tariffs will hurt the European economy. Cyrus de la Rubia, chief economist at Hamburg Commercial Bank, which compiled the PMI figures, said: 'Things could hardly have turned out much worse. The manufacturing sector is sinking deeper into recession, and now the services sector is starting to struggle after two months of marginal growth. 'It is no surprise, given the political mess in the biggest eurozone economies lately. 'France's government is on shaky ground and Germany's heading for early elections. Throw in the election of Donald Trump and it is no wonder the economy is facing challenges.' Bert Colijn, chief economist at ING Bank, said 'The November PMI is another wake-up call for eurozone policymakers that the economy continues to show signs of weakness. 'New business is weakening again for manufacturing and services with export orders in particular being down sharply as the eurozone economy battles weak demand from abroad.' DIY INVESTING PLATFORMS AJ Bell AJ Bell Easy investing and ready-made portfolios Learn More Learn More Hargreaves Lansdown Hargreaves Lansdown Free fund dealing and investment ideas Learn More Learn More interactive investor interactive investor Flat-fee investing from £4.99 per month Learn More Learn More Saxo Saxo Get £200 back in trading fees Learn More Learn More Trading 212 Trading 212 Free dealing and no account fee Learn More Learn More Affiliate links: If you take out a product This is Money may earn a commission. These deals are chosen by our editorial team, as we think they are worth highlighting. 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Max Brooks scores 26 points and UMass-Lowell secures 92-83 victory over DartmouthThe Advantages of 980nm and 1470nm Diode Laser Technology for Body Contouring 12-13-2024 11:02 PM CET | Fashion, Lifestyle, Trends Press release from: ABNewswire The Advantages of 980nm and 1470nm Diode Laser [ https://www.tazmedicalaser.com/endoskin-jowl-neck-face-lifting-1470nm-diode-laser-machine-tr-b1470-1-product/ ] Technology for Body Contouring The use of laser technology in cosmetic treatments has significantly evolved over the past decades, offering non-invasive solutions for those seeking body contouring. Specifically, 980nm and 1470nm diode lasers have become popular choices for addressing areas of stubborn fat, such as double chins, bat wings (the flabby skin under the arms), and belly fat. These wavelengths are absorbed by water and hemoglobin, which allows them to effectively target adipose tissue without causing significant damage to the surrounding structures. The precision of these lasers ensures that they can penetrate deep enough into the tissue to disrupt fat cells while promoting collagen production, leading to a firmer and smoother appearance of the treated area. This selective photothermolysis not only helps in reducing localized fat deposits but also minimizes downtime and side effects compared to traditional surgical procedures. Mechanism of Action and Patient ExperienceWhen it comes to treating double chins, bat wings, and belly fat with 980nm and 1470nm diode lasers [ https://www.tazmedicalaser.com/laser-treatment-for-body-lipolysis-body-sculpture-machine/ ], the mechanism involves heating the fat cells to a temperature that causes apoptosis or programmed cell death. The lasers create microchannels within the fat layer, allowing the contents of the fat cells to be released and naturally metabolized by the body. Patients generally experience a warm sensation during the procedure, which is typically well-tolerated and requires no anesthesia. Post-treatment, there may be mild redness or swelling, but these effects are transient. Multiple sessions might be necessary to achieve optimal results, depending on the individual's condition and desired outcome. Importantly, the patient should maintain a stable weight post-procedure to sustain the improvements, as remaining fat cells can still grow larger if weight is gained. Safety and Future Prospects of Diode Laser TreatmentsSafety is paramount in any cosmetic procedure, and 980nm and 1470nm diode laser [ https://www.tazmedicalaser.com/endolift-laser-machine-model-tr-august-1470-product/ ] treatments have demonstrated a favorable safety profile. They offer a controlled method of targeting fat cells while preserving the integrity of the skin and underlying tissues. However, like all medical treatments, they come with potential risks and should be performed by qualified professionals. The future of diode laser technology looks promising as ongoing research continues to refine the process, potentially expanding its applications and efficacy. As public awareness grows regarding non-invasive body contouring options, we can expect an increase in demand for these treatments. Moreover, advancements in laser technology could lead to even more precise and effective methods for achieving the desired body sculpting outcomes, making it an increasingly viable option for those looking to address specific areas of concern without undergoing surgery. Image: https://ecdn6.globalso.com/upload/p/893/image_product/2024-12/1470nm-laser.jpg Media Contact Company Name: Baoding Te'anzhou Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=the-advantages-of-980nm-and-1470nm-diode-laser-technology-for-body-contouring ] Country: China Website: https://www.tazmedicalaser.com/ This release was published on openPR.
WASHINGTON — Senate Democrats reelected Chuck Schumer as party leader on Tuesday as the party moves into a deeply uncertain time, with no real consensus on a strategy as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office. From left, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of N.Y., Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., and Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., gather after Senate Democratic leadership elections for the next session of Congress on Tuesday in Washington. Mark Schiefelbein, Associated Press Schumer faced no opposition in the party leadership elections, in which Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin was also reelected to the No. 2 spot and Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar became the new No. 3. In a statement, Schumer, of New York, said he was honored to move the party forward “during this crucial period for our country.” “Our preference is to secure bipartisan solutions wherever possible and look for ways to collaborate with our Republican colleagues to help working families,” Schumer said. “However, our Republican colleagues should make no mistake about it, we will always stand up for our values.” While Schumer remains popular with his colleagues, it is a bleak moment for Senate Democrats, who were hopeful they could hold the majority for the third election in a row. Instead they lost four seats and will be in the minority, 53-47, as Trump takes office. Trump dialed in Tuesday with Senate Republicans as they began laying the groundwork for control of government. The brief call was more celebratory than a prescriptive policy agenda, according to those attending the private GOP retreat, urging senators to confirm his Cabinet nominees as they launch an agenda of tax cuts, deportations and other priorities. "It was a love fest," said Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo. “There was a real sense of unity in the room.” Republicans want to notch an early accomplishment after Trump’s inauguration Jan. 20. Incoming Senate Republican leader John Thune of South Dakota outlined a potential roadmap during the private retreat at the Library of Congress, detailing a potential strategy that would have senators working on an initial legislative package — energy, border security and defense priorities — that could be approved in the first 30 days of the new administration. Next, he explained that the senators would turn to reviving the expiring tax cuts from Trump's first term. The new Congress convenes Jan. 3, and the Senate expects to quickly begin holding confirmation hearings for Trump’s top Cabinet nominees. Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., also addressed the GOP senators — noting his slim majority in the House. He “emphasized the need for unity heading into the first 100 days agenda,” his spokesman Taylor Haulsee said. Unlike eight years ago, when opposition to Trump’s narrow election win fueled enthusiasm in their party, Democratic lawmakers and many of their voters are exhausted and looking for answers. So far, Democrats stayed relatively quiet on Trump’s nominees and plans for office. Schumer declined to comment on specifics of any nominees, instead allowing Republican reaction to dominate the conversation. On Monday, Schumer wrote a public letter to Thune, asking him to resist Trump’s pressure to allow him to appoint some of his nominees without a Senate vote and to insist on full FBI background checks for all nominees. But he has said little else about Trump’s upcoming presidency. While some have been more aggressive — Washington Sen. Patty Murray, a former chairwoman of the Senate Health, Labor, Education and Pensions Committee, said that Trump’s nomination of Robert Kennedy Jr. to lead the Health and Human Services Department is “dangerous” and “nothing short of disaster” — several Democratic senators say they are saving their strength and figuring out a focus. “Everybody’s in kind of a wait-and-see mode right now,” said Nevada Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, part of Schumer’s leadership team. “Under the previous Trump administration, there was chaos all the time, all the time. And I do think it is important to pick your battles.” It’s still unclear which battles they will pick, and Democrats have differing opinions on how to fight them. Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz, who is also in Democratic leadership, says “anyone who has a grand strategy is full of crap” but thinks Democrats, for now, “need to keep things simple.” “We need to talk about people, protect people, advocate for people,” he said. “Do not talk about protecting institutions. Do not talk about advocating for institutions. It’s a not just a rhetorical shift, but an attitudinal shift. We have to remind ourselves, that we’re not fighting for programs and projects and line items and agencies or norms. We’re fighting for people.” Virginia Sen. Mark Warner said he’s spent a lot of time reflecting, and “I don’t think anyone can claim this was a policy election,” and Democrats need to look at cultural issues. Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman says Democrats just need to “pace ourselves” and avoid the “massive freakout” of Trump's last term. Democrats should be preparing, says Connecticut Sen. Richard Blumenthal. He says Schumer is picking his battles “very thoughtfully and strategically.” “We’re thinking about how we protect against using the FBI, or the prosecutorial authority of the Justice Department for retribution against critics,” Blumenthal said. “How we elevate these issues in a way that American people understand them.” Democrats know better now “the extraordinary challenges we’re going to face,” Blumenthal said. Madison Chock and Evan Bates of the U.S. compete in the ice dance rhythm dance program at the Grand Prix of Figure Skating series competition in Tokyo, Japan, Friday, Nov. 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Hiro Komae) Hiro Komae A discarded plastic bag floats in the waters of Botafogo beach in Rio de Janeiro, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Bruna Prado) Bruna Prado China's President Xi Jinping, left center, and Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, walk into the Alvorada palace after attending a welcoming ceremony in Brasilia, Brazil, Nov. 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres) Eraldo Peres Slovakia's Rebecca Sramkova competes against Great Britain's Katie Boulter during a Billie Jean King Cup semi-final match at Martin Carpena Sports Hall in Malaga, southern Spain, on Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez) Manu Fernandez President-elect Donald Trump's nominee to be attorney general, former Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., closes a door to a private meeting with Vice President-elect JD Vance and Republican Senate Judiciary Committee members, at the Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) J. Scott Applewhite A surfer rides on an artificial wave in the river 'Eisbach' at the 'Englischer Garten' (English Garden) downtown in Munich, Germany, Monday, Nov. 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Matthias Schrader) Matthias Schrader A woman carries a gift basket as she arrives at a park to attend a friend's birthday party, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024, in Kampala, Uganda. (AP Photo/David Goldman) David Goldman Tania hugs her brother-in-law Baruc after rescuing some of their belongings from their flooded house after the floods in Paiporta, Valencia, Spain, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) Emilio Morenatti Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris looks at a monitor backstage, just before taking the stage for her final campaign rally, Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) Jacquelyn Martin President-elect Donald Trump listens during an America First Policy Institute gala at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024, in Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) Alex Brandon President Joe Biden meets with President-elect Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Evan Vucci A resident returns to his burned village, Monday Nov. 25, 2024, one day after a fire broke out leaving about 2,000 families homeless at a slum area in Manila, Philippines. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila) Aaron Favila Isaac Young rests his cheek on the family horse Rusty's forehead during farm chores before homeschooling, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, in Sunbury, Ohio. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) Carolyn Kaster Students from anti-discrimination movements attack an Awami League supporter in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Mahmud Hossain Opu) Mahmud Hossain Opu A young girl holds a "Black Voters for Harris-Walz" sign outside of Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris' election night watch party at Howard University, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams) Terrance Williams Visitors walk through the 'Cathedral' on the Christmas light trail as it returns for its12th year with a showcase of new installations set within the UNESCO World Heritage Site landscape of Kew Gardens in London, England, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth) Kirsty Wigglesworth Venezuelan migrant Alvaro Calderini carries his niece across a river near Bajo Chiquito, Panama, after walking across the Darien Gap from Colombia on their way north to the United States, Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix) Matias Delacroix An aerial view shows a packed parking lot at Citadel Outlets in Commerce, Calif., Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024, as early Black Friday shoppers arrive at the mall. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) Jae C. Hong Israeli soldiers holding their weapons bathe with residents in a hot water pool coming from a drilling project which exposed a subterranean hydrothermal spring near Mount Bental in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights, on the first day of the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg) Ohad Zwigenberg Voters stand in line outside a polling place at Madison Church, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, in Phoenix, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt York) Matt York Molten lava flows on the road to the Blue Lagoon, Grindavik, after the volcanic eruption that started Wednesday, on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland, Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Marco di Marco) Marco di Marco Firefighters and sheriff's deputies push a vintage car away from a burning home as the Mountain Fire burns in Camarillo, Calif., on Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Noah Berger) Noah Berger Supporters of the Frente Amplio (Broad Front) celebrate the victory of candidate Yamandú Orsi in the presidential run-off election in Montevideo, Uruguay, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko) Natacha Pisarenko People gather at the site where former Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah was killed by Israeli airstrikes late September during a memorial ceremony in Dahiyeh, in the southern suburb of Beirut, Lebanon, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Hussein Malla) Hussein Malla Katia, 11, with her grandmother and mother sit in an armored minivan during en evacuation by the "White Angels" police unit in Kurakhove, Donetsk region, Ukraine, on Nov. 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Anton Shtuka) Anton Shtuka People clean mud from a house affected by floods, in Algemesi, Spain, Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez) Manu Fernandez Cattle stand on a heap of textile waste at the Old Fadama settlement of Accra, Ghana, Oct. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Misper Apawu) Misper Apawu Family members accompany the coffin that contain the remains of Mexican actress Silvia Pinal, during a memorial service at the Palacio de Bellas Artes, in Mexico City, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. Pinal, an actress from Mexico's Golden Age of cinema in the 1940s and 50s, died Thursday. She was 93. (AP Photo/Aurea Del Rosario) Aurea Del Rosario A family arrive to cross into Lebanon through the Jousieh border crossing, between Syria and Lebanon, Nov. 28, 2024, following a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah that went into effect on Wednesday. (AP Photo/Omar Sanadiki) Omar Sanadiki
Stock market today: Wall Street inches higher to set more recordsFantasy football is a passion for many. Sometimes that passion pushes fantasy managers to make emotional decisions even when the data suggest otherwise. Each week during the 2024 NFL season, Liz Loza will attempt to strike a balance between what the data states and what the heart wants. This is called Facts vs. Feelings. I'm writing this week's column on Christmas Eve, feeling as though I should incorporate a Yuletide theme. The fact is, however, you're probably going to read this after December 25th. In which case, I hope that your holiday was merry and bright. Whether Santa slid down your chimney, the glow of Hanukkah is lighting up your evenings, or the bemusement of Festivus tickled your counter-culture soul, may the ritual of your choosing have brought you a comfortable sufficiency of your favorite things and people. If it didn't ... well, then notes for next year. Because we're already thinking about next year, aren't we? These final few days of 2024 are guaranteed to be stuffed with "spin it forward" takes and headlines selling us the "hottest new resolutions" for 2025. Many of us will pen mental manifestos about counting macros (because cutting carbs faded away with the flip phone and trucker hats) and prioritizing probiotics. Others will make public proclamations regarding intentional self-care while committing to grabbing those long overdue drinks with that friend who lives across town. It's all just wheel-spinning, really. Not that creating healthful change is frivolous. Or that I would ever doubt the authenticity of anyone's personal promises. Not at all. Rather, this specific space of time exists in such a liminal way that we can't help but feel disoriented. I don't want to dodder around in a fugue-like state but straddling the end of one year while not beginning the next invites a discomforting amount of confusion. Ripping off robust resolutions and organizing tool sheds offers us agency. Sitting still is tough. Distractions often provide us with deep delight. I'm not advocating for either. Though, I am planning to give "staying present" a valiant try. The concept is not novel. I've hinted at it throughout the season. Aiming to live in the now when the now is muddy, however, requires an accented amount of discipline. And who wants to talk about discipline on Dec. 27? Instead, why don't we just allow events to unfold? Maybe change things up when new data is discovered or different feelings bubble to the surface? Even if the calendar and the coordinating fantasy football season don't imply an expanse of hours or minutes with which to cull updated information. Who cares? We still have one, maybe two more weeks. And besides, if we can't control our circumstances, let's at least focus on how we react to them. So, don't let the purgatory of this period mess with your mentals. Ponder what it is you really want and then do that thing, taking full responsibility for any potential consequences. Trust your gut in late December as much as you did in early October and as much as you will in mid-January. Purge your garage with as much enthusiasm as a De'Von Achane Stan starting him at Cleveland. Or languish in cozies on the sofa with satisfaction similar to that of Bijan Robinson managers coming off of a third multi-TD effort. The stakes may be high and the time may be muted, but you remain the captain of your destiny in fantasy ... and life. Now, get out there and enjoy all of it. It's not too late to play for free There's still time to join or create a league in the No. 1 Fantasy basketball game. Your league starts fresh on the first scoring period following your draft. Create or join a fantasy basketball league on ESPN. Your championship run starts today! Sign up today! Brock Purdy , QB, San Francisco 49ers : Few players have seized an unexpected moment with as much vigor as Purdy. From being under center at the Super Bowl to being unceremoniously eliminated from the postseason 10 months later, the 49ers' QB has moved through an impressive number of obstacles. And, yet, he's battled through all of the disappointment and continued to produce. Purdy is currently fantasy's QB12 in terms of points per game, registering nearly 17 per contest. That's down just 1.5 points from his 2023 average. Certainly, not bad given the number of offensive stars that made early exits from San Fran's season. Moreover, Purdy has posted 20 or more fantasy points in four of his past seven games. There were two single-digit outliers (most notably the 'snow game' versus Buffalo) during that span and he tossed an ugly INT at Miami in Week 16, but his performances have been of starting caliber more times than not. Part of Purdy's appeal sneakily exists in his legs. The 24-year-old is QB8 in rushing fantasy points behind Jalen Hurts , Josh Allen , Jayden Daniels , Lamar Jackson , Anthony Richardson , Kyler Murray and Bo Nix . More specifically, Purdy is in the second tier of mobile QBs, averaging 3.9 fantasy points per game from rushing alone. That sets up nicely versus Detroit, as the Lions' defense has given up the third-most rushing yards per game (28.3) to opposing QBs. Speaking of the Lions' defense, it is banged up to say the least. As the injuries have mounted, so has the opposing offenses' production; all three signal-callers that have reached 22 fantasy points against the Lions this season have come over the team's most recent four games. The unit allowed seven passing scores from Weeks 1-12. That number jumped to eight over the most-recent four games. With Purdy playing for pride in what's expected to be a relatively close (+3.5) and high-scoring affair (51.5) , Mr. Irrelevant is in a position to make fantasy squads anything but. Alexander Mattison , RB, Las Vegas Raiders : The Raiders' backfield has been giving EOY energy since Josh Jacobs left town. Make no mistake; the team cast Mattison in an understudy role, but with Zamir White (quadriceps) and Sincere McCormick (ankle) both on the IR, the former Viking figures to receive top billing over the next pair of weeks. Even with Ameer Abdullah stumbling into a resurgence, Mattison found the spotlight in the passing game, converting four of seven looks in Week 16. The 26-year-old has handled lead back duties on five occasions this season, registering at least 16 touches and averaging 19.5 opportunities over the collection of games. His output in those efforts has been of the RB2 variety, as he's managed a solid 13.6 fantasy points per contest. He figures to post similar stats in a plus matchup at New Orleans. The Saints have allowed 17 rushing TDs to RBs, including a whopping three (to three different Packers running backs) this past Monday night. Mattison may not have been on early-season bingo cards but could be a perfectly-timed Band-Aid for facile managers seeking positional depth. Introducing the ESPN Smack Talk Fantasy Football Greeting Cards This 3-card pack offers the perfect blend of humor and humiliation, making sure your league's biggest underachievers get the recognition they deserve. Use code FOCUS10 for 10% off your order. Shop Now Terry McLaurin , WR, Washington Commanders : Talk about delayed gratification! The unlocking of Scary Terry has been a journey six years in the making. No matter the stumbling blocks or setbacks, McLaurin efforted towards ascent. That dedication exists not only on a macro level, but also from a micro POV. The chemistry between McLaurin and Jayden Daniels didn't happen overnight. At no point, however, did the duo stop massaging it into existence. Take, for example, their splits facing Philadelphia. McLaurin converted just one of two balls for 10 yards in Week 11. That number improved to a 5-60-1 stat line (worth 17 fantasy points) in Week 16. The evolution has been equal parts constant and consistent. Currently the virtual game's WR5 overall, McLaurin has posted 15 or more fantasy points in nine of his past 10 outings and in 11 total contests over the course of 2024. For context, those 11 games of 15-plus fantasy points ranks second-most in the NFL among non-QBs. Only Justin Jefferson has more (12), while Ja'Marr Chase and Jahmyr Gibbs are tied with the same number. The climb figures to continue in a game with major postseason implications on Sunday night. Washington will host a Falcons' squad miraculously still in the hunt for the NFC South crown and, with it, a playoff berth. With both offenses firing on all cylinders and Atlanta's defense allowing the highest completion percentage in the NFL (69.8%), McLaurin should put forth a commanding display. Additionally working in the wideout's favor is the fact that the Falcons have allowed a league-high (tied with the Texans) 20 receiving scores to wide receivers. That's got to make McLaurin investors feel pretty good about their chances of victory in Week 17. Alec Pierce , WR, Indianapolis Colts : No better way to close out the year than with a little YOLO. Pierce has brought the boom (and the bust) throughout 2024. Assuming he clears the leagues' concussion protocol (from a head injury suffered in Week 15), the explosive wideout figures to deliver more of the former, especially facing an ultra-generous Giants' secondary. Ranking first at the position in deep targets (29), Pierce is averaging an astounding 22.2 yards per reception (WR2). He's listed second among Colts' pass-catchers in routes run (353) and receiving yards registered (645) while leading the corps in air yards per target (21.41) and receiving scores hauled in (tied with Josh Downs for five). Pierce's downfield ability figures to be healthily exploited given the matchup. New York's defense has given up an absurd 62% completion rate on deep passes, which is by far the worst in the NFL, registering a full five points behind of the down-and-out Jaguars (57%). Interestingly, three of the six receivers who, like Pierce (21.5 yards, WR1), rank inside the top 20 in terms of aDOT have each logged season-high fantasy point totals when facing the G-Men: Calvin Austin III (20.4 FPTS, which included a kick return), Amari Cooper (27.6 FPTS), and Rashod Bateman (23.0 FPTS). The timing for Pierce and his managers could not be better. Editor's Picks The Playbook: Your fantasy football guide for Christmas Day games 2h Mike Clay Shadow Report: Your weekly guide to WR/CB matchups 1h Mike Clay Matchup rankings: Bucky Irving, Jayden Reed set up well 56m Tristan H. Cockcroft Chig Okonkwo , TE, Tennessee Titans : I am but a humble fantasy analyst, standing before you, and asking you to, once again, consider the underutilized talents of the Titans' second-most targeted pass-catcher. To be fair, it appears as though Mason Rudolph and I share an affinity for the tight end's receiving potential. Okonkwo -- who has drawn double-digit looks in back-to-back efforts -- has logged a healthy target share of 19% with Rudolph under center as opposed to 11% with Will Levis at the helm. Coincidentally, the Maryland product has also experienced an increase in snap share, up from 54% in Weeks 1-8 to 70% since Week 9. While Rudolph has not been perfect, he has provided the offense with an undeniable spark. So much so that the Titans are favored (-1) at Jacksonville in Week 17. Of course, much of that has to do with the state of the Jaguars' (briefly aforementioned) defense. Jacksonville has given up the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing TEs, including 20.9 to Brock Bowers last Sunday. Chig may not be Brock, but his Week 16 effort (19.1) ranked second-most at the position, behind only the Raiders rookie. He has a solid shot to flirt with those numbers again this go-around, reminding managers that late is better than never. Yes, I just gave you two entire paragraphs of Mason Rudolph-adjacent analysis without a single on-the-nose reference. Happy New Year. Follow Liz on social @LizLoza_FFNone