mnl168 online casino register philippines 。

Air Force secures 69-61 win against Stony BrookNEW YORK (AP) — New York City Mayor Eric Adams met with President-elect Donald Trump's incoming “border czar” on Thursday, with the Democratic mayor expressing an enthusiasm to work with the incoming administration to pursue violent criminals in the city while Trump promises mass deportations. The mayor's meeting with Tom Homan, who will oversee the southern and northern borders and be responsible for deportation efforts in the Trump administration, came as Adams has welcomed parts of the president-elect's hardline immigration platform. Adams told reporters at a brief news conference that he and Homan agreed on pursuing people who commit violent crimes in the city but did not disclose additional details or future plans. “We're not going to be a safe haven for those who commit repeated violent crimes against innocent migrants, immigrants and longstanding New Yorkers,” he said. “That was my conversation today with the border czar, to figure out how to go after those individuals who are repeatedly committing crimes in our city.” Homan said the two connected as career law enforcement officers and that he came away from the meeting with “a whole new outlook on the mayor.” “I've called him out this past year, many times, about being more of a politician than a police officer. I was wrong,” Homan said during an interview with Dr Phil McGraw on his Merit TV network. “He came through today as a police officer and a mayor that cares about the safety and security of his city.” The meeting marked Adams' latest and most definitive step toward collaborating with the Trump administration, a development that has startled critics in one of the country's most liberal cities. In the weeks since Trump's election win, Adams has mused about potentially scaling back the city's so-called sanctuary policies and coordinating with the incoming administration on immigration. He has also said migrants accused of crimes shouldn't have due process rights under the Constitution, though he eventually walked back those comments. The mayor further stunned Democrats when he sidestepped questions last week on whether he would consider changing parties to become a Republican, telling journalists that he was part of the “American party.” Adams later clarified that he would remain a Democrat. For Adams, a centrist Democrat known for quarrelling with the city's progressive left, the recent comments on immigration follow frustration with the Biden administration over its immigration policies and a surge of international migrants in the city. He has maintained his positions have not changed and argues he's trying to protect New Yorkers, pointing to the law-and-order platform he has staked out throughout his political career and while running for mayor. At his news conference Thursday, Adams reiterated his commitment to New York's generous social safety net. “We're going to tell those who are here, who are law-abiding, to continue to utilise the services that are open to the city, the services that they have a right to utilise, educating their children, health care, public protection,” he said. “But we will not be the safe haven for those who commit violent acts.” Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com .

Big Central Conference: National Silver All-Division football teams, 2024It was December 2, 1805. The fields of Austerlitz were cloaked in fog. Napoleon Bonaparte outnumbered and ostensibly retreating, faced the combined might of the Austrian and Russian imperial armies. The Allies believed they had him cornered. They saw the French emperor’s lines thinning and his forces retreating from a key high ground, the Pratzen Heights. Sensing an opportunity, they charged forward, confident that victory was within their grasp. Yet, what unfolded next would shatter their hopes. As the Allies surged, Napoleon unleashed a meticulously planned counteroffensive, splitting their forces and driving thousands of soldiers onto a frozen lake. When French artillery rained cannonballs onto the fragile ice, it gave way, and entire regiments plunged into the freezing waters below. Austerlitz, later immortalized as the “Battle of the Three Emperors,” was not just a triumph of force but of strategy, deception, and preparation. Fast forward to the 21st century, and the fog of war has moved from battlefields to boardrooms and global markets. The U.S.-China trade war is a modern-day Austerlitz, where tariffs and currency maneuvers have replaced cannonballs and cavalry charges. In 2018, when Donald Trump levied tariffs on Chinese goods, it was an ambush reminiscent of the Allied assault on Napoleon’s ostensibly weakened forces. Trump saw an opening to weaken China’s economic dominance. He expected the tariffs to leave China vulnerable. Initially, the move appeared to succeed. China’s exports faltered, its stock markets stumbled, and Beijing scrambled to contain the damage. But, like Napoleon retreating to draw his enemies into a trap, China was not as vulnerable as it seemed. Over the years, China has hardened its economic defenses, just as Napoleon meticulously prepared his army before Austerlitz. President Xi Jinping’s government has shifted its trade strategies to flood emerging markets with exports, ensuring a broader base of demand. By devaluing the yuan, Beijing made Chinese goods cheaper abroad, effectively neutralizing the tariffs’ impact. This currency manipulation acted like Napoleon’s cannon fire on the ice, destabilizing U.S. manufacturers and forcing global competitors to operate on China’s terms. The infamous “China price” has become a weapon as potent as any artillery barrage, undercutting rivals and consolidating Beijing’s control over key industries. Much like Napoleon’s use of terrain, China has exploited the dynamics of the global economy to its advantage. Trump, for all his strengths and his admirable vision back toward a more just, sustainable U.S. economy, finds himself in a position not unlike the Allies at Austerlitz – overextended and overly confident in its initial moves. The belief that tariffs alone could cripple China underestimated Beijing’s resilience and capacity for adaptation. Chinese leaders, like Napoleon, understand the importance of timing and preparation. They have avoided direct confrontation, opting instead for a strategy of attrition, flooding global markets with inexpensive goods and undercutting U.S. industries. Meanwhile, the devaluation of the yuan functions as a defensive maneuver, absorbing economic shocks and allowing Chinese exporters to remain competitive despite the tariffs. But the parallels between Austerlitz and the trade war extend beyond strategy. They also give us critical lessons about the risks of hubris and the power of long-term planning. Napoleon’s genius lay not only in his military tactics but in his ability to see several moves ahead, anticipating and exploiting the overconfidence of his enemies. Similarly, China’s strategy demonstrates a long view of economic warfare, one that prioritizes resilience and adaptability over immediate victories. By diversifying its trade partners and pouring national resources into its manufacturing base, Beijing has created a buffer against the economic pressures imposed by Washington. The United States, on the other hand, risks repeating the Allies’ mistakes. Overreliance on the dollar’s dominance, combined with political and economic fragmentation at home, has left Trump vulnerable to counterattacks. Just as the Allies underestimated Napoleon’s ability to strike decisively, Trump has underestimated China’s capacity to absorb blows and retaliate in ways that reshape the global economic landscape. The fog of economic war cloaks the real strengths and weaknesses of each side, making it all the more crucial to understand the dynamics at play. At Austerlitz, Napoleon turned the tide of battle with a single decisive move – the destruction of the ice-bound lake that swallowed thousands of Allied soldiers. This dramatic moment was memorably recreated in Ridley Scott’s 2023 film Napoleon. Scott showed the unpredictable, surprising nature of warfare. Similarly, in the trade war, a single misstep – whether a poorly calibrated tariff, an underappreciation of China’s control over supply chains, or a financial crisis – could shatter the fragile balance of power. Both sides are vying for dominance in a global economy that increasingly resembles the thin ice of that fateful battlefield. What if Napoleon could give strategic advice to Trump? Let’s imagine. First, he would likely stress the importance of understanding the opponent’s true strengths and weaknesses. Just as Napoleon studied the terrain and movements of his enemies, Trump must conduct a comprehensive assessment of China’s economic vulnerabilities and strengths rather than relying on outdated assumptions. Second, Napoleon would advise against overextension. He understood that no force, no matter how powerful, can win if it spreads itself too thin. For Trump, this means focusing on shoring up his own economic foundations – investing in domestic manufacturing, securing critical supply chains, and strengthening alliances with other nations to counterbalance China’s global influence. Trump also risks spreading himself too thin if he spends his time and attention encouraging financial market bubbles that risk misallocating scarce capital. Finally, Napoleon would emphasize the importance of timing and decisive strikes. Just as he waited for the perfect moment to counterattack at Austerlitz, Trump must be patient and deliberate in his strategy. Will tariffs with thousands of Commerce Department exemptions be a decisive strike? Or will China view them as bluffs, based on the 2018 experience, as it sets up shell companies in Vietnam and Mexico? It’s hard for me to imagine tariffs being successful in achieving Trump’s goals without at least temporary pain and restructuring in the way many global companies do business. Finally, Napoleon might remind Trump, “Never invade Russia, or shoot missiles at it, in the winter... or in the spring, for that matter.” Although Trump, unlike Joe Biden, long ago realized that extending the Russia-Ukraine conflict, rather than urging peace talks, is one of the most tragic, wasteful, and stupid decisions in history. Editor’s note: Members of Jim Rickards’ Strategic Intelligence Pro can read the rest of Dan’s research, along with the accompanying stock pick, here.

OTTAWA — NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh says his party is ready to introduce motions as early as today that would help the Liberals pass legislation to create their promised GST holiday but only if they separate it from their parallel promise to send $250 cheques to working Canadians. Singh said his party would open the procedural "gates" including motions to extend the sitting hours of the House of Commons to debate and pass the legislation in time for it take effect as promised on Dec. 14. Last week, the Liberals brought forward a plan to pause the GST on items like premade grocery items, beer and wine, toys and other holiday staples. The pause would last for two months. Singh says the NDP supports this idea, but oppose the associated $250 working Canadians benefit that is supposed to be mailed in the spring to anyone who earned an income up to $150,000 last year. Singh wants the benefit expanded to include non-working seniors and people who rely on disability benefits who did not have a working income in 2023. The Liberals have put the GST and benefit cheque bill on notice in the House of Commons but have been unable to introduce it because of an ongoing filibuster by the Conservatives over an unrelated matter of privilege. A Conservative motion demanding the government turn over unredacted documents to the RCMP on a green technology fund has been debated since late September, preventing any bills or other motions from being introduced or debated. The Conservatives insist that debate will continue until the documents are given to the RCMP or the NDP join them and the Bloc Québécois to vote non confidence in the government. At least two parties would need to support a motion to end or pause that debate. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said last week that both the GST holiday and the $250 cheques are aimed at helping people struggling with the cost of living. The rebate as planned would be issued to an estimated 18 million Canadians in the spring and cost around $4.7 billion. The government has issued notice of the legislation but hasn't introduced it in the House yet. It also has put on notice a motion calling for debate on the bill, when it is introduced, to be limited to one 10-minute speech per party, and undergo just one vote for all the required stages of debate. Some Liberal MPs said Wednesday they think their government should consider expanding the eligibility for the benefit cheques. After the Liberal caucus meeting Seniors Minister Steven MacKinnon said the government has created a number of benefits to help low-income seniors. But Milton MP Adam van Koeverden said he wants to see more ambition in helping seniors and Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP Marcus Powlowski said if the government can afford to include seniors in the payments it absolutely should. The Bloc Québécois is also calling on the government to offer the rebate to seniors who are fully retired. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre called the measure a "tiny, two month tax trick" and says if Trudeau cared about affordability he'd get rid of the carbon tax. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 27, 2024. David Baxter, The Canadian PressFarmers & Merchants Bancorp (FMCB) Announces Retirement of the Chief Administrative Officer and Appointment of New Chief Administrative Officer

North Macedonian political party demands ban on TikTok after at least 17 students injured

Barnwell knew it wasn't going to be easy to navigate the Class AA football playoffs. The Warhorses earned a favorable draw thanks to their perfect 4-0 run through Region 5-AA, but it's not like their No. 1 seed meant they were going to face bad teams for four rounds to reach the state championship game - it just meant they'd get to play those games at home. A 4-0 run through the Lower State bracket wasn't without its challenges, and Thursday afternoon Barnwell will face its most difficult and most important test of the season - Upper State champion Clinton for the state title. "They're a really good football team," said Barnwell head coach Brian Smith. "They like to run the ball but are still very good at throwing the ball. They're a dominant running team. They're kind of a double-wing kind of set but not a lot of Wing-T principles, more option-like principles than anything, really. Big offensive line, big, physical front on both sides of the ball. "One of the great things about this ball game, is I feel like if you look at history in this state, Barnwell and Clinton are two of the best programs around, and they're matching up for the state championship. ... Both towns are hungry. Both communities are hungry. I think it should be a great ball game." Clinton has eight state titles in program history, highlighted by a run of four in seven seasons in the 1970s under Keith Richardson, but the Red Devils' last title - and state championship appearance - came in 2009. Barnwell is looking for its fourth title, and its first since 1988. To do that, the Warhorses know they have to rise to the occasion one last time against a physical team. They've done that to reach this point, and last week they bullied a stout Manning team in the second half of a 37-14 win, and now is the time to show what all of that work since last year's third-round loss to Oceanside Collegiate was geared toward. "I feel like the last few weeks we've played big, physical, good football teams and could've lost to - I said this since round two, we played well against Timberland but we were terrified that we were going to lose that ball game," Smith said. "Not that we were going to lose, but just that they were going to beat us because they were a great football team. We've stressed to our kids that you can't take anybody lightly and we've got to show up each week and work, and they've done that and that has helped us prevail. "It's another week just the same way. Big, physical bunch. Great offensive line. Great defensive line. Skill guys can run around. Nobody was expecting, at either school, to turn the film on and see a team that just looks awful. I think it's two football teams that are very well-coached, and that's what you expect this time of year in December." Barnwell will look to its experienced, talented offensive line to create gaps for running back Nehemiah Brown (1,083 yards, 11 touchdowns) and dual-threat quarterback Cameron Austin (2,058 passing yards and 19 touchdowns on 65% completions, plus 755 yards and 16 touchdowns rushing), and the Warhorses' dangerous receiver group is full of potential game-breakers who are also among the team's defensive leaders. Two of those are William Robinson (team-high 76 tackles with two interceptions, one returned for a touchdown against Silver Bluff) and Logan Sturkie (60 tackles with a team-best six sacks and a fumble recovery). Damahjai Devoe leads the team in interceptions with four, including the one he returned for a score just before halftime two weeks ago against Cheraw. That third-round win over Cheraw went down to the wire, and had one play gone differently in that game it very well could be the Braves facing Clinton on Thursday. Ditto for the Red Devils, who last week outlasted a Fairfield Central team that was among the favorites to win the title. Barnwell and Clinton were also among that group - the Warhorses were ranked second and the Red Devils fourth in the final media poll of the season - and at the end of a postseason full of tough tests have found their toughest in one another. "We felt like, we were the 1 seed for home games throughout the playoffs, but we really felt like going into the playoffs we had a really tough road to get through, and we knew that," Smith said. "When you're playing in November or December, there's not going to be a lot of bad teams left. We knew we were going to face teams where we had to bring our best every Friday night, and we've been able to prevail and do that."mnl168.com login password 。

LETTERS: ‘The whole education system needs an overhaul’

What's New? Valentina Gomez, a Republican running for Congress in Texas, drew sharp criticism after suggesting undocumented immigrants who commit violent crimes should be publicly executed. In a video shared on X, formerly Twitter , Gomez simulated shooting a migrant, claiming the measure would serve as a deterrent. Her remarks, following a high-profile subway murder in New York City where the suspect is an undocumented immigrant, ignited a firestorm of backlash online. Newsweek contacted Gomez's campaign for comment via phone. The Context Sebastian Zapeta-Calil, a 33-year-old Guatemalan immigrant, was arrested on murder charges after a woman was set on fire and killed on the subway over the weekend. After the gruesome incident made headlines, Gomez, a Colombian-born American political activist and former Missouri Secretary of State candidate, shared a controversial video on X calling for the public execution of undocumented immigrants who commit violent crimes against Americans. While making the proposal, Gomez simulated shooting a migrant. NEW: Texas Congressional candidate Valentina Gomez releases video demonstrating the punishment she wants for illegal aliens who k*ll Americans. "It's that simple: public executions for any illegal that r*pes or k*lls an American." @ValentinaForUSA pic.twitter.com/P0BzoVhaxN The dummy representing an undocumented migrant in the video was seen tied to a chair with their hands duct taped behind their back. Their face was covered with a hood. After shooting the dummy in the back of the head, Gomez walked up to the camera and said, "It's that simple. Public executions for any illegal that rapes or kills an American," framing the act as a form of justice. "They don't deserve deportation," she said to the camera. "They deserve to be ended." What To Know Gomez's political career has been defined by controversy and provocative statements. She launched her 2024 campaign for Missouri Secretary of State with far-right positions that drew significant attention online but resulted in little support from voters. In one video, Gomez jogged through St. Louis's Soulard neighborhood, a historically LGBTQ+ area, saying, "Don't be weak and gay. Stay hard." Another video showed her using a homemade flamethrower to burn LGBTQ+ books and dismissing countries that ban flamethrowers as "weak and gay." Her antics were widely condemned by LGBTQ+ advocates and mainstream politicians but earned praise from other far-right figures, like former Representative Matt Gaetz . X limited visibility on the video after it was posted, citing its rules against violent speech. "My video being restricted & my account getting suspended shows all of you that I am the biggest threat to the establishment because I call it like I see it, I give people hope, and I don't need their money," Gomez wrote after X limited the video's visibility. "Remember, nobody is coming to save us. Stay strapped." Accompanying the post was a video showing the subway murder in New York. In a written statement to Newsweek , Gomez criticized her opponents and suggested Texas Governor Greg Abbott make use of her video at the U.S.-Mexico border. "Governor Abbott should play my video at the border instead of those signs that don't deter anyone. I choose to fight for Texas because Texas needs a warrior who will speak the truth, cook the crooks, and save the children," Gomez said. "How many little girls and women have to be raped and killed before our 'leaders' start doing their jobs? You can't rehabilitate a pedophile, a rapist, or a murderer. Texas representatives in Congress are only good at funding Ukraine, trading stocks, and holding useless hearings and investigations with strongly worded letters—but no real results for the American people," she added. "You don't mess with Texas, and you definitely don't mess with me. I look forward to serving the farmers, families, and veterans of Texas in Congress," she concluded. What People Are Saying Laura Loomer, conservative activist, wrote on X: " I love how @ValentinaForUSA rolled up with her handgun, Pearl earrings and Versace sunglasses with a FAFO message for illegal aliens." Carlos Montero, Argentinian journalist and former CNN anchor, wrote on X: "I think @ValentinaForUSA forgot about the Christmas spirit." Jim Stewartson, a liberal podcaster, wrote on X: " There was a time this sort of thing was frowned up on in America." What Happens Next The debate surrounding Gomez's comments is likely to continue. While her proposal is unlikely to gain traction in legislative circles, it has also raised questions about the boundaries of acceptable political discourse on policy discussions related to immigration and crime.Oconee Federal Financial ( NASDAQ:OFED – Get Free Report ) and Capitol Federal Financial ( NASDAQ:CFFN – Get Free Report ) are both small-cap finance companies, but which is the superior investment? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their risk, valuation, institutional ownership, earnings, dividends, analyst recommendations and profitability. Valuation and Earnings This table compares Oconee Federal Financial and Capitol Federal Financial”s revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Capitol Federal Financial has higher revenue and earnings than Oconee Federal Financial. Oconee Federal Financial is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Capitol Federal Financial, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Profitability Analyst Ratings This is a summary of recent recommendations for Oconee Federal Financial and Capitol Federal Financial, as provided by MarketBeat.com. Capitol Federal Financial has a consensus price target of $6.75, indicating a potential downside of 2.03%. Given Capitol Federal Financial’s stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Capitol Federal Financial is more favorable than Oconee Federal Financial. Insider & Institutional Ownership 88.5% of Capitol Federal Financial shares are owned by institutional investors. 5.1% of Oconee Federal Financial shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 2.2% of Capitol Federal Financial shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, hedge funds and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth. Dividends Oconee Federal Financial pays an annual dividend of $0.40 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.0%. Capitol Federal Financial pays an annual dividend of $0.34 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.9%. Oconee Federal Financial pays out 33.9% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Capitol Federal Financial pays out 117.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Risk and Volatility Oconee Federal Financial has a beta of 0.24, indicating that its share price is 76% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Capitol Federal Financial has a beta of 0.47, indicating that its share price is 53% less volatile than the S&P 500. Summary Capitol Federal Financial beats Oconee Federal Financial on 11 of the 15 factors compared between the two stocks. About Oconee Federal Financial ( Get Free Report ) Oconee Federal Financial Corp. operates as a holding company for Oconee Federal Savings and Loan Association that provides various banking products and services in the Oconee and Pickens County areas of northwestern South Carolina, and the northeast area of Georgia in Stephens County and Rabun County. It offers deposit products, including demand, money market, NOW, savings, and individual retirement accounts, as well as certificates of deposit. The company’s loan portfolio comprises one-to-four family residential and multi-family real estate loans; home equity loans and lines of credit; nonresidential real estate loans; mortgage loans; construction and land loans; commercial and industrial loans; agricultural loans; and consumer and other loans, such as installment loans for various consumer purposes, including the purchase of automobiles, boats, and other legitimate personal purposes. Oconee Federal Financial Corp. was founded in 1924 and is based in Seneca, South Carolina. Oconee Federal Financial Corp. operates as a subsidiary of Oconee Federal, MHC. About Capitol Federal Financial ( Get Free Report ) Capitol Federal Financial, Inc. operates as the holding company for Capitol Federal Savings Bank that provides various retail banking products and services in the United States. The company accepts a range of deposit products, including savings accounts, money market accounts, interest-bearing and non-interest-bearing checking accounts, and certificates of deposit. It also provides various loan products, such as one- to four-family residential real estate loans, commercial real estate, commercial and industrial, construction loans, and small business loans, as well as consumer loans, which include home equity loans and lines of credit, home improvement loans, vehicle loans, and loans secured by savings deposits. In addition, the company offers mobile, telephone, and online banking services, as well as bill payment services; credit cards; mortgage loan; operates a call center; and invests in various securities. The company serves the metropolitan areas of Topeka, Wichita, Lawrence, Manhattan, Emporia, and Salina, Kansas, and a portion of the metropolitan area of greater Kansas City. Capitol Federal Financial, Inc. was founded in 1893 and is headquartered in Topeka, Kansas. Receive News & Ratings for Oconee Federal Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Oconee Federal Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

mnl168 app download for android Inside RTE Dancing With The Stars’ Jack Woolley life – from Olympics & family to dating lifeUruguay's voters choose their next president in a close runoff with low stakes but much suspense

President-elect Trump wants to again rename North America’s tallest peak

Sir Keir Starmer has pledged to make the “cowardly act” of drink spiking a specific criminal offence as he demanded joint action from police and hospitality chiefs to crackdown on violence against women and girls (VAWG). With Labour promising to halve VAWG in the next decade, the prime minister is calling chief constables, transport bosses and industry executives to Downing Street on Monday to urge a co-ordinated response to “bring the vile perpetrators to justice”. Under the government plans, thousands of workers in the night-time economy will be trained on how to prevent spiking incidents, support victims and help collect evidence by spring next year. Labour pledged in its manifesto to introduce a new offence for spiking, but there was no detail in the King’s Speech this year about a specific crime – however, Sir Keir reaffirmed his commitment on Monday, saying: “I made a promise that, if elected, I would make spiking a new criminal offence. Today, I am proud to have come good on that pledge.” It is unclear when the legislation will be introduced, but ministers and officials are understood to be working to bring it forward as soon as possible – with Sir Keir promising “to take back our streets” from criminals. The government announced that 10,000 workers in the hospitality industry will be trained to deal with incidents by next spring as part of an expansion of a scheme piloted from December. Labour says the proposals are part of the party’s promise to halve VAWG in the next decade – although home secretary Yvette Cooper did admit the pledge is “ambitious” and that the government has not worked out how to measure their progress as she laid out a string of reforms to overhaul policing at an annual summit with police chiefs last Tuesday. Meanwhile, Sir Keir will hear from police and industry leaders at talks in Downing Street on Monday about tactics already being used in response to the issue. Plain clothes officers are being deployed in areas around bars and clubs to spot predatory behaviour, with Chief Constable Jason Hogg of Thames Valley Police due to tell the meeting how his force is implementing such measures. Chief Constable Lucy D’Orsi of British Transport Police will highlight the relaunch of the text-to-report number, 61016, which is free across all major networks and invites women to contact the force for help in the event of harassment on the train. Other figures attending the meeting include Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality and chairwoman of the Institute of Licensing, and Chief Constable Maggie Blythe, the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for VAWG. Sir Keir said: “My Government was elected on a pledge to take back our streets, and we will never achieve this if women and girls do not feel safe at night. “Today, I will bring together police chiefs, heads of industry and transport bosses to demand coordinated action to stop women being targeted, whether they are out with friends or simply travelling home. “Cracking down on spiking is central to that mission. “We know it can be incredibly difficult for victims to come forward to report this awful crime, and these cases can be very hard to prosecute. We must do more to bring the vile perpetrators who carry out this cowardly act, usually against young women and often to commit a sexual offence, to justice. “That is why I made a promise that, if elected, I would make spiking a new criminal offence. Today, I am proud to have come good on that pledge.” Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “Spiking is a disturbing and serious crime which can have a damaging and long-lasting impact on victims. “That’s why today we are taking decisive action to prevent this devastating crime and to crack down on perpetrators, by introducing a new criminal offence for spiking and launching specialist training for thousands of bar staff nationwide. “People shouldn’t have to worry about the safety of their drinks on a night out. These changes are about giving victims greater confidence to come forward, and ensuring that there is a robust response from the police whenever these appalling crimes take place.”Share Vanishingly few people are focused on making the UK the best place in the world for tech Vanishingly few people are focused on making the UK the best place in the world for tech The UK has spent billions to build a machine for distributing regional subsidies The Advanced Research and Innovation Agency was largely the work of outsiders The UK has Schrödinger's science and technology sector. On the one hand, we are a 'science and technology superpower'. The strength of our R&D base is our national differentiator. Ministers celebrate the depth of the UK's private markets. At the same time, universities demand more money to help commercialise innovation. Investors call on the government to plug 'funding gaps' for growth-stage companies. Last week, the Chancellor used her Mansion House address to outline yet another government-backed vehicle for investing in innovative British businesses. UK science and tech manages to be both the best in the world but unable to stay afloat without ever growing sums of taxpayers' money. So what's going on? In short, the UK doesn't have a technology policy. While there is an army of officials working on technology-related issues, they are focused on either regulation or operating a sprawling funding bureaucracy. Vanishingly few people are focused on making the UK the best place in the world to scale impactful research or build a category-defining technology company. Structural barriers to scale – like the high cost of energy, limited lab space, broken procurement, regulatory sluggishness, and predatory behaviour from universities towards entrepreneurs – all go ignored. Instead, the government has channelled billions of pounds into subsidising the UK technology sector over the past two decades. It is the single biggest investor in UK venture capital funds and 'growth-stage' technology companies. On top of this, hundreds of millions of pounds is distributed to fund ineffective NGOs, support low value innovation programmes... Alex Chalmers

What a year for the People's Party in 2024. The orangemen are black and blue after two successive political defeats. But that should be treated as good news for them as the two losses gave them a crucial lesson. The party lost a poll in Udon Thani on Nov 25. Its candidate, Kanisorn Khurirang, gained 268,675 votes in the election for the provincial administration organisation president in the northeastern province. But that was not enough for the win as Sarawut Pethpanomporn, who ran under the Pheu Thai banner, came first with 327,487 votes. The result was sweet redemption for Mr Sarawut after he was stunned by Nattapong Pipatchaisiri of the People's Party's predecessor, the Move Forward Party, in the general election in May last year, when both fought for the seat in Muang district. Earlier in September, Jadet Jantar of Pheu Thai won the by-election in Phitsanulok with 37,209 votes, some 7,000 more than Nathachanon Chanaburanasak of the People's Party. The by-election took place to replace Padipat Santipada of the then-Move Forward Party after he was one of 11 party executive members banned from politics for threatening the constitutional monarchy, under a ruling of the Constitutional Court. Pheu Thai should be happy with the results, and influencer ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra has promised to engineer campaigns to keep the momentum going into the next general election. Thaksin admitted at a party meeting in Hua Hin on Nov 14 that Pheu Thai was a bit short as it should have gotten more MPs in the national poll last year. It bagged 141 seats in the contest on May 14 last year, while the People's Party received three more. Although the People's Party suffered the latest losses in Udon Thani and Phitsanulok this year, the defeats were a blessing in disguise for the orangemen. They knew by now what they would encounter when a new general election came. And it can be any time, depending on the popularity of Pheu Thai and the unity of the coalition government. In the general election last year, the now-defunct Move Forward rallied against the coup and attempts of then-prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha to hold on to power, from ordering tanks and soldiers onto the streets to leading the coalition government after the 2019 election. The loss in Udon Thani has shown the People's Party that its next big rival is Thaksin. Pheu Thai alone would find it hard competing with the People's Party, as the results of the previous general election showed Pheu Thai was losing its charm for voters in urban areas and young voters. The ruling party needs a big push from Thaksin to remind his supporters of what he claimed were the glory days when he was the prime minister and that voters would have a future under the administrative guidance of his daughter, Ms Paetongtarn. The earlier defeat in Phitsanulok showed what the People's Party could encounter when a new election is called. The party knew it was not a one-on-one fight with Pheu Thai. In fact, the People's Party candidate was beaten by all coalition parties led by Pheu Thai in an effort to do what was needed to take the seat. The People's Party certainly expects the same scenario in the next election. The coalition parties only fielded a poll candidate in any constituency in which the People's Party won by a large margin last year and was still popular with voters. That would block more orangemen from going to parliament. The next general election is vital for the People's Party. Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the main man behind the party, and other strategists laid the political foundations in the previous two national polls. Future Forward won 81 seats in 2019, and Move Forward moved them up to 143 last year. Mr Thanathorn has projected the People Party's popularity would rise to control the majority of the lower house next time, as he admitted that would be the only way to form a government. His projection was made when the presence of Thaksin and the tactic of the parties in the coalition government to keep it at bay were not factored in. The road to parliament for the orangemen is no longer rosy and is not easy. Saritdet Marukatat is a 'Bangkok Post' columnist and former Digital Media News Editor at the paper.We love this budget-friendly office chair's breathability — and it's over $100 off right now

'A Real Pain,' 'English Teacher' among Independent Spirit Award nominees

Former star receiver Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson had his secret formula for staying healthy re-revealed during a podcast appearance last week. While hoping on the “7PM in Brooklyn,” which had been released on Thursday, the hosts played an old clip of Johnson discussing how he used to “collect warm urine from my teammates, heat it up and put my ankle in it for 30 minutes” to fend off ankle sprains. Upon hearing the comments, which had originally made back in 2016, Johnson reiterated how helpful that method had been. “Yeah, that worked,” he said during the recent podcast appearance. “There’s a reason I never been injured — home remedies. ... I’m sitting here living proof,” he said. Johnson only missed 10 games over the course of his 11-year career in the NFL, which included 10 seasons with the Bengals. The wide receiver, who recorded 766 catches, 11,059 yards and 67 touchdowns, said that his grandmother was the one who gave him the idea and that it wasn’t hard to get his teammates to help. “It’s a good thing,” he said. “This is how I was able to collect it all at one time, right? You got team meetings in the morning, right? Everybody. ‘Hey y’all, boy, do me a favor, boy. My ankle kind of f–ked up, I need you to all y’all to drink water at one time. “So, when we break meeting, if y’all pee it’s a bucket in the bathroom.’ Boom. Y’all all peeing that bucket for me.” Johnson has been eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. His final season in the NFL came in 2011 when he played for the Patriots making 15 catches for 276 yards and one touchdown. Johnson made three starts and 15 appearances in his single season in New England.

Swiss Olympic snowboarder Sophie Hediger dies in avalanche, aged 26 Swiss Olympic snowboarder Sophie Hediger has died following an avalanche at a mountain resort. The country's skiing federation says the incident took place at the Arosa resort in Switzerland. The 26-year-old Hediger competed at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics in the women’s snowboard cross and the mixed team version of the same event. Hediger achieved her first two World Cup podium finishes in the 2023-24 season. Her best result was a second place in St. Moritz in January. NFL on Netflix: Christmas Day games are a 1st for streaming giant Netflix will have one of its biggest days since the site launched in 1998 when it carries two NFL games for the first time on Christmas. “NFL Christmas Gameday on Netflix” kicks off with a two-hour pregame show at 11 a.m., before Pittsburgh hosts Kansas City. Baltimore faces Houston in the second game. The streaming giant agreed to a three-year contract in May to carry Christmas Day games. Centuries-old angels uncovered at Boston church made famous by Paul Revere BOSTON (AP) — Conservators have uncovered eight angels in a historic Boston church that counted Paul Revere as a bell ringer and played a pivotal role in the Revolutionary War. The angels were painted in the early 18th century but painted over in 1912 as part of a renovation of the Old North Church. Inspired by research showing the existence of at least 20 angels, conservators for the past four months have been removing the white paint that covered the eight angels located on the balcony's arches in the church sanctuary. The public is now able to view them. Soprano Angel Blue sings her first Metropolitan Opera 'Aida' in a new production Angel Blue, one of the most admired singers of her generation, is headlining the Metropolitan Opera’s first new production of Verdi’s “Aida” in 36 years. The 40-year-old takes on the title role of the enslaved Ethiopian princess torn between love for an Egyptian warrior and loyalty to her country. It’s a part that comes weighted with history, especially for a Black soprano at the Met, where Leontyne Price embodied the role from her first performance in 1961 until her retirement in 1985. Blue tells The Associated Press she’s long looked up to Price, and directors who have worked with her say the singer is ready for the challenge. Blue’s Met debut in ‘Aida’ will happen New Year’s Eve. Magic and lights draw crowds to an alpine village in Washington state for Christmas LEAVENWORTH, Wash. (AP) — Freshly baked pretzels, shining tree lights and sleds in the snow lend a ruddy warmth to an unlikely collection of Bavarian-themed chalets in the mountains of Washington state. Decades ago, the town of Leavenworth was a near ghost town, one of the poorest parts of the Pacific Northwest. The mines and the sawmill had closed, and even the railroad left. That’s when desperate business owners took a serious gamble -- reinventing the community in the vision of an alpine village. More than half a century later, the result brings tourists from near and far -- especially during the holidays, when Leavenworth takes on the flavor of a German Christmas market. Bill Clinton is hospitalized with a fever but in good spirits, spokesperson says WASHINGTON (AP) — Former President Bill Clinton was admitted Monday to MedStar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington after developing a fever. The 78-year-old was admitted in the “afternoon for testing and observation,” Angel Urena, Clinton’s deputy chief of staff, said in a statement. “He remains in good spirits and deeply appreciates the excellent care he is receiving,” Urena said. Packers clinch playoff berth with 1st shutout in NFL this season, 34-0 over Saints GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — Josh Jacobs gained 107 yards from scrimmage and scored a touchdown for a sixth straight game as the Green Bay Packers clinched a playoff berth while producing the first shutout of the NFL season, 34-0 over the hapless New Orleans Saints. Green Bay improved to 11-4 and earned its fifth postseason appearance in six years. New Orleans played without injured quarterback Derek Carr and running back Alvin Kamara. Rookie Spencer Rattler started and went 15 of 30 for 153 yards with an interception and a fumble. The Packers have won nine of their last 11 games. Prosecutors withdraw appeal of dismissed case against Alec Baldwin in fatal movie set shooting SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico prosecutors won’t pursue an appeal of a court’s decision to dismiss an involuntary manslaughter charge against Alec Baldwin. The actor had been charged in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during a rehearsal on a movie set outside Santa Fe in October 2021. Special Prosecutor Kari Morrissey withdrew on Monday the appeal of a July decision at trial to dismiss the charge. The decision to drop the appeal solidifies the decision by Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer halfway through trial to dismiss the case on allegations that police and prosecutors withheld evidence from the defense. An all-Filipino crew is set to make history in the Sydney to Hobart yacht race SYDNEY (AP) — There have been plenty of “firsts” in the history of the Sydney to Hobart yacht race which was first held in 1945. An all-Filipino crew of 15 sailors will make it another when the annual ocean classic begins in Sydney Harbor on Thursday. With veteran sailor Ernesto Echauz at the helm, Centennial 7 will embark on the 628-nautical mile race. The boat itself is no stranger to the race. Previously, the TP52 yacht was known as Celestial and claimed the Sydney to Hobart overall handicap victory in 2022 under Sam Haynes after being runner-up the year before. Pandas An An and Ke Ke celebrate their 1st Christmas in Hong Kong HONG KONG (AP) — A pair of five-year-old pandas, named An An and Ke Ke, celebrated their first Christmas early in a Hong Kong park, munching on special treats and looking cute for the cameras. An An, the male panda, was presented with an ice slab that had “Merry Christmas” written on it with sweet potato and carrots while Ke Ke, his female companion, got a snowman garnished with slices of carrot and apple in a special press event Monday before visitors streamed to the park. China sent the pair to Hong Kong in late September in a bid to boost tourism in the city.Police say searchers in Pennsylvania don’t expect to find woman in sinkhole alive UNITY TOWNSHIP, Pa. (AP) — The search for a woman who is believed to have fallen into a sinkhole in western Pennsylvania is moving into a recovery effort after two days of searching 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 jury asked for a second look at videos captured by the body cameras of officers who responded to the subway car where Penny grabbed hold of Jordan Neely in May 2023. Neely's agitated behavior and remarks were frightening passengers. Jurors also asked to revisit Penny's interview with detectives and a bystander's video of much of the roughly six-minute restraint. And the jury also requested to rehear part of a city medical examiner’s testimony. Penny's lawyers say his actions were justified. 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.

New York Jets head coaching search: 3 underrated candidatesAffirm Holdings president Michalek sells $12.3 million in stockJ&K: Omar govt facing quota, power, unemployment challenges

Five Below, Inc. Announces Third Quarter Fiscal 2024 Financial Results

Percentages: FG .596, FT .833. 3-Point Goals: 10-23, .435 (Kopp 4-7, Nyeri 3-5, Petty 2-3, Ammons 1-3, Grady 0-2, Hall 0-3). Team Rebounds: 0. Team Turnovers: 1. Blocked Shots: 2 (Nyeri, Petty). Turnovers: 8 (Ammons 2, Hall 2, Ebonkoli, Ijeh, Kopp, Petty). Steals: 6 (Kopp 2, Diallo, Ebonkoli, Grady, Petty). Technical Fouls: None. Percentages: FG .475, FT .462. 3-Point Goals: 5-18, .278 (Ríos 2-7, L.Gonzalez 1-1, Fret 1-2, Hollingsworth 1-2, Fraguada 0-1, Texidor 0-1, Rivera 0-2, Torres 0-2). Team Rebounds: 0. Team Turnovers: 1. Blocked Shots: 1 (Rivera). Turnovers: 12 (L.Gonzalez 4, Fret 3, Benitez 2, A.Gonzalez, Ríos, Torres). Steals: 3 (Benitez, L.Gonzalez, Ramirez). Technical Fouls: None. .

Stocks closed higher on Wall Street at the start of a holiday-shortened week. The S&P 500 rose 0.7% Monday. Several big technology companies helped support the gains, including chip companies Nvidia and Broadcom. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.2%, and the Nasdaq composite rose 1%. Honda’s U.S.-listed shares rose sharply after the company said it was in talks about a combination with Nissan in a deal that could also include Mitsubishi Motors. Eli Lilly rose after announcing that regulators approved Zepbound as the first prescription medicine for adults with sleep apnea. Treasury yields rose in the bond market. On Monday: The S&P 500 rose 43.22 points, or 0.7%, to 5,974.07. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 66.69 points, or 0.2%, to 42,906.95. The Nasdaq composite rose 192.29 points, or 1%, to 19,764.89. The Russell 2000 index of smaller companies fell 4.93 points, or 0.2%, to 2,237.44. For the year: The S&P 500 is up 1,204.24 points, or 25.2%. The Dow is up 5,217.41 points, or 13.8%. The Nasdaq is up 4,753.53 points, or 31.7%. The Russell 2000 is up 210.36 points, or 10.4%.Buried among Florida’s manicured golf courses and sprawling suburbs are the artifacts of its slave-holding past: the long-lost cemeteries of enslaved people, the statutes of Confederate soldiers that still stand watch over town squares, the old plantations turned into modern subdivisions that bear the same name. But many students aren’t learning that kind of Black history in Florida classrooms. In an old wooden bungalow in Delray Beach, Charlene Farrington and her staff gather groups of teenagers on Saturday mornings to teach them lessons she worries that public schools won’t provide. They talk about South Florida’s Caribbean roots, the state’s dark history of lynchings , how segregation still shapes the landscape and how grassroots activists mobilized the Civil Rights Movement to upend generations of oppression. “You need to know how it happened before so you can decide how you want it to happen again,” she told her students as they sat as their desks, the morning light illuminating historic photographs on the walls. >> AROUND THE COUNTRY: National coverage from WVTM 13 Florida students are giving up their Saturday mornings to learn about African American history at the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum in Delray Beach and in similar programs at community centers across the state. Many are supported by Black churches, which for generations have helped forge the cultural and political identity of their parishioners. Since Faith in Florida developed its own Black history toolkit last year, more than 400 congregations have pledged to teach the lessons, the advocacy group says. Florida has required public schools to teach African American history for the past 30 years, but many families no longer trust the state’s education system to adequately address the subject. By the state’s own metrics, just a dozen Florida school districts have demonstrated excellence at teaching Black history, by providing evidence that they are incorporating the content into lessons throughout the school year and getting buy-in from the school board and community partners. >> WVTM 13 ON-THE-GO: Download our app for free School district officials across Florida told The Associated Press that they are still following the state mandate to teach about the experience of enslavement, abolition and the “vital contributions of African Americans to build and strengthen American society.” But a common complaint from students and parents is that the instruction seems limited to heroic figures like the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks and rarely extends beyond each February’s Black History Month . When Sulaya Williams’ eldest child started school, she couldn’t find the comprehensive instruction she wanted for him in their area. So in 2016, she launched her own organization to teach Black history in community settings. “We wanted to make sure that our children knew our stories, to be able to pass down to their children,” Williams said. Williams now has a contract to teach Saturday school at a public library in Fort Lauderdale, and her 12-year-old daughter Addah Gordon invites her classmates to join her. “It feels like I’m really learning my culture. Like I’m learning what my ancestors did,” Addah said. “And most people don’t know what they did.” State lawmakers unanimously approved the African American history requirement in 1994 at a time of atonement over Florida’s history. Historians commissioned by the state had just published an official report on the deadly attack on the town of Rosewood in 1923, when a white mob razed the majority-Black community and drove out its residents. When the Florida Legislature approved financial compensation for Rosewood’s survivors and descendants in 1994, it was seen as a national model for reparations . >> FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube “There was a moment of enlightenment in Florida, those decades ago. There really was,” said Marvin Dunn, who has authored multiple books on Black Floridians. “But that was short-lived.” Three decades later, the teaching of African American history remains inconsistent across Florida classrooms, inadequate in the eyes of some advocates, and is under fire by the administration of Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has championed efforts to restrict how race , history and discrimination can be talked about in the state’s public schools . DeSantis has led attacks on “wokeness” in education that rallied conservatives nationwide, including President-elect Donald Trump . In 2022, the governor signed a law restricting certain race-based conversations in schools and businesses and prohibits teaching that members of one ethnic group should feel guilt or bear responsibility for actions taken by previous generations. Last year, DeSantis’ administration blocked a new Advanced Placement course on African American Studies from being taught in Florida, saying it violates state law and is historically inaccurate. A spokesperson for the College Board, which oversees Advanced Placement courses, told the AP they are not aware of any public schools in Florida currently offering the African American Studies class. It’s also not listed in the state’s current course directory. Representatives for the Florida Department of Education and the state’s African American History Task Force did not respond to requests for comment from the AP. “People who are interested in advancing African diaspora history can’t rely on schools to do that,” said Tameka Bradley Hobbs, manager of Broward County’s African-American Research Library and Cultural Center. “I think it’s even more clear now that there needs to be a level of self-reliance and self-determination when it comes to passing on the history and heritage of our ancestors.” Last year, only 30 of Florida’s 67 traditional school districts offered at least one standalone course on African American history or humanities, according to state data. While not required by state law, having a dedicated Black history class is a measure of how districts are following the state mandate. Florida’s large urban districts are far more likely to offer the classes, compared to small rural districts, some of which have fewer than 2,000 students. Even in districts that have staff dedicated to teaching Black history, some teachers are afraid of violating state law, according to Brian Knowles, who oversees African American, Holocaust and Latino studies for the Palm Beach County school district. “There’s so many other districts and so many kids that we’re missing because we’re tiptoeing around what is essentially American history,” Knowles said. Frustration over the restrictions that teachers face pushed Renee O’Connor to take a sabbatical last year from her job teaching Black history at Miami Norland Senior High School in the majority-Black city of Miami Gardens. Now, she is back in the classroom, but she also has been helping community groups develop their own Black history programs outside of the public school system. “I wish, obviously, all kids were able to take an African American history class,” O’Connor said, “but you have to pivot if it’s not happening in schools.”

TORONTO — Canada's premiers are calling on the federal government to extend the deadline for claiming charitable donations on tax returns through to the end of February. Ontario Premier Doug Ford made the request in a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday, sent in his capacity as chair of the Council of the Federation. Ford says the premiers are echoing calls from charities to help account for a decline in mail-in donations due to the Canada Post strike, which brought letter mail to a standstill for a month starting in mid-November. The premiers are requesting that the federal government extend the deadline from the end of the year to the end of February 2025, which would allow donors to send their cheques later than usual but still get credited for the 2024 tax year. The Salvation Army reported over the weekend that holiday donations had fallen by 50 per cent this year, which it attributes to the strike. Trudeau's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 24, 2024. Nicole Thompson, The Canadian PressBiden gives life in prison to 37 of 40 federal death row inmates before Trump can resume executions

With Republicans determined to make her arrival in Congress a spectacle, Sarah McBride is decidedly shutting it down as a “distraction” from their agenda. America’s first openly transgender member of Congress has been far from the most vocal candidates on the Democratic side after their party sustained losses in the Senate and presidential races, while seeing the balance of power change little in the House. But McBride, an incoming representative from Delaware, now finds herself in the center of the House GOP ’s crosshairs. Republican officials unveiled a bill that would specifically bar transgender women from using the women’s restrooms on Capitol Hill, a move that the resolution’s author Nancy Mace has said was explicitly aimed at McBride. Mace, a bomb-thrower in the House GOP caucus , is now resorting to nodding along as a Fox News host openly taunted McBride and other transgender officials such as assistant health secretary Rachel Levine, as she contends for the spotlight after GOP victories in congressional and presidential races. She posted a video of herself ripping down transgender flags around the Hill, she raged about trans people on social media in hundreds of posts within a matter of days, and she filed legislation to ban trans people from bathrooms that align with their gender at any federal facility nationwide. “I know that’s not a woman!” Fox News host Rachel Campos-Duffy said in her interview with Mace on Sunday, referring to Levine. Campos-Duffy and Mace repeatedly linked the congresswoman’s effort to ban McBride and other transgender people on the Hill from using the bathrooms of their respective gender identities to Mace’s survival of sexual assault. They repeatedly referred to transgender women as “men” in the interview, and Mace also fired back at a Democratic congresswoman, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who accused her of putting society on a path towards women and girls facing“inspections” of their genitalia before they are admitted into restrooms. The Republican from South Carolina said that accusation was “disgusting.” “That's really disgusting, and to say that about me, a survivor of rape and sexual abuse?” Mace remarked to Campos-Duffy. But McBride is largely staying above the fray. While she did make appearances on Sunday news shows this week, she did so while vowing to respect any resolutions governing restroom use passed by House Republicans in the Capitol. ”There’s certainly been a lot of noise around me, but I’ve remained focused,” she said in an interview on MSNBC’s The Weekend . “It is an attempt to distract from what they are actually doing,” she added. “Every single time we hear them say the word ‘trans,’ look what they’re doing with their right hand. Look at what they’re doing to pick the pocket of American workers, to fleece seniors by privatizing Social Security and Medicare.” McBride told Face the Nation on CBS that she ran for Congress in response to the experience she had caring for her late husband during his cancer battle. “We both knew how lucky we were,” said the incoming congresswoman. “We knew how lucky Andy was to have health insurance that would allow him to get care that would hopefully save his life. And we both knew how lucky we were to have flexibility with our employers.” She continued: “That allowed Andy to focus on the full time job of getting care, and me to focus on the full time job of being there by his side to care for him, to love him, to marry him, and to walk him to his passing.” Some conservative members of McBride’s party — unhappy with Kamala Harris’s stunning election defeat against Donald Trump, and the blame being tossed around over the failure of Democrats to turn out younger voters and working-class voters — have urged the Democratic Party to abandon support for transgender rights in the wake of the 2024 election, echoing rhetoric that emerged from Republican officials and right-wing groups. One of them was Tom Suozzi of New York, famous for taking back his district for the Democrats after his predecessor lost it to disgraced former congressman George Santos. “The Democrats have to stop pandering to the far left,” he told The New York Times after Harris’s defeat. “I don’t want to discriminate against anybody, but I don’t think biological boys should be playing in girls’ sports.”Suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO struggles, shouts while entering courthouse ALTOONA, Pa. (AP) — The suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO struggled with deputies and shouted while arriving for a court appearance in Pennsylvania a day after he was arrested at a McDonald’s and charged with murder. Luigi Nicholas Mangione emerged from a patrol car, spun toward reporters and shouted something partly unintelligible while deputies pushed him inside Tuesday. At the brief hearing, the defense lawyer informed the court that Mangione would not waive extradition to New York but instead wants a hearing on the issue. Mangione was denied bail. Brian Thompson, who led the United States’ largest medical insurance company, was killed last Wednesday as he walked alone to a Manhattan hotel for an investor conference. From wealth and success to murder suspect, the life of Luigi Mangione took a hard turn Luigi Nicholas Mangione was apparently living a charmed one: the grandson of a wealthy real estate developer, valedictorian of his elite Baltimore prep school and with degrees from one of the nation’s top private universities. Friends at an exclusive co-living space at the edge of touristy Waikiki in Hawaii where the 26-year-od Mangione once lived widely considered him a “great guy.” Pictures on his social media accounts show a fit, smiling, handsome young man on beaches and at parties. Now, investigators are working to piece together why Mangione diverged from a path of seeming success to make the violent and radical decision to gun down UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in a brazen attack on a Manhattan street. Key details about the man accused of killing of UnitedHealthcare's CEO The 26-year-old man charged in last week’s killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO in New York City has appeared in a Pennsylvania courtroom. Luigi Nicholas Mangione was arrested Monday after a worker at a McDonald's in Altoona, Pennsylvania, notified police that he resembled the suspect in last Wednesday's killing of Brian Thompson. While being led into court to be arraigned Tuesday, Mangione shouted something that was partly unintelligible but referred to an “insult to the intelligence of the American people.” During the hearing in Hollidaysburg, Mangione was denied bail and his attorney said Mangione would not waive extradition. DA suggests unusual idea for halting Trump’s hush money case while upholding his conviction NEW YORK (AP) — Prosecutors are trying to preserve President-elect Donald Trump’s hush money conviction as he returns to office, and they're suggesting various ways forward. One novel notion is based on how some courts handle criminal cases when defendants die. In court papers made public on Tuesday, the Manhattan district attorney’s office proposed an array of options for keeping the historic conviction on the books. The proposals included freezing the case until he’s out of office, or agreeing that any future sentence wouldn’t include jail time. Another idea: closing the case with a notation that acknowledges his conviction but says that he was never sentenced and that his appeal wasn’t resolved because of presidential immunity. There's no immediate response from Trump's lawyers. Middle East latest: Israel bombs hundreds of sites across Syria as army pushes into border zone Israel says it bombed more than 350 military sites in Syria during the previous 48 hours, targeting “most of the strategic weapons stockpiles” in the country. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the wave of strikes was necessary to keep the weapons from being used against Israel following the Syrian government’s stunning collapse. Israel also acknowledged its troops were pushing into a border buffer zone inside Syria, which was established after the 1973 Mideast war. However, Israel denied its forces were advancing Tuesday toward the Syrian capital of Damascus. Life in the capital was slowly returning to normal. People celebrated for a third day in a main square, and shops and banks reopened. Donald Trump is returning to the world stage. So is his trolling NEW YORK (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump’s recent dinner with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his visit to Paris for the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral were not just exercises in policy and diplomacy. For Trump, they were also prime trolling opportunities. Throughout his first term in the White House and his recent campaign to return there, the Republican has dished out provocative, antagonizing and mocking statements. Now that’s he’s preparing to return to the Oval Office, Trump is back at it, and his trolling is attracting more attention — and eyerolls. Report on attempts to kill Trump urges Secret Service to limit protection of foreign leaders WASHINGTON (AP) — A congressional task force looking into the assassination attempts against Donald Trump during his presidential campaign is recommending changes to the Secret Service. These include protecting fewer foreign leaders during the height of the election season and considering moving the agency out of the Department of Homeland Security. The 180-page report was released Tuesday. It constitutes one of the most detailed looks so far into the July 13 assassination attempt against Trump during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania and a second one in Florida two months later. South Korea's ex-defense minister is formally arrested over brief imposition of martial law SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea's previous defense minister has been formally arrested over his alleged collusion with President Yoon Suk Yeol and others in imposing martial law last week. Kim Yong Hyun resigned last week and has been detained since Sunday. He is the first person arrested in the case. Prosecutors have up to 20 days to determine whether to indict him. A conviction on the charge of playing a key role in rebellion carries the maximum death sentence. Kim is accused of recommending martial law to Yoon and sending troops to the National Assembly to block lawmakers from voting on it. Homes burn as wind-driven wildfire prompts evacuations in Malibu, California MALIBU, Calif. (AP) — Thousands of Southern California residents are under evacuation orders and warnings as firefighters battle a wind-driven wildfire in Malibu. The flames burned near seaside mansions and Pepperdine University, where students sheltering at the school’s library on Monday night watched as the blaze intensified. Officials on Tuesday said a “minimal number” of homes burned, but the exact amount wasn’t immediately known. More than 8,100 homes and other structures are under threat, including more than 2,000 where residents have been ordered to evacuate. Pepperdine University on Tuesday morning said the worst of the fire has pushed past campus. It was not immediately known how the blaze started. More beans and less red meat: Nutrition experts weigh in on US dietary guidelines Americans should eat more beans, peas and lentils and cut back on red and processed meats and starchy vegetables. That's advice from a panel of nutrition experts charged with counseling the U.S. government about the next edition of the dietary guidelines. The panel did not weigh in on the growing role of ultraprocessed foods that have been linked to health problems or alcohol use. But they did say people should continue to limit added sugars, sodium and saturated fat in pursuit of a healthy diet. Tuesday’s recommendations now go to federal officials, who will draft the final guidance set for release next year.

mnl168 games BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) — Tommy Mellott threw for 300 yards and four touchdowns and top-seeded Montana State tied a school record with its 13th straight win, dominating Tennessee-Martin 49-17 on Saturday in the second round of the FCS playoffs. Scottre Humphrey ran for 102 yards and a touchdown, one of three rushing touchdowns for the Bobcats (13-0), who are home next weekend against the winner of Saturday's late game between Lehigh and eighth-seeded Idaho. MSU, which has scored at least 30 points in every game this season, won 13 games in 1975-76. Mellott threw for 178 yards and three touchdowns in the first half and the Bobcats rolled to a 28-10 lead. Mellott had touchdown passes of 24 yards to Hunter Provience and 12 yards to Taco Dowler in the first quarter and 39 yards to Ty McCullouch in the second. McCullouch also had a 6-yard touchdown run. The pass to McCullouch ended a six-play, 73-yard drive that took just 53 seconds, and came immediately after Trevonte Rucker took a pass from Kinkead Dent 78 yards to the end zone that made it 21-10. The Bobcats only allowed only 10 total points in the first half of home games in the regular season. Humphrey had a 36-yard TD run and Mellott hit Dowler for a 29-yard score in the third quarter Adam Jones contributed a 30-yard scoring run in the fourth. Mellott finished 22-of-25 passing and the Bobcats had 501 total yards. Dent threw for 167 yards and two touchdowns, both to Rucker, who had six receptions for 107 yards. The Skyhawks (9-6) finished with 264 yards. AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football . Sign up for the AP’s college football newsletter: https://apnews.com/cfbtop25Enzo Maresca ‘thankful’ for connection at Leicester ahead of return with Chelsea

Megan Fox's hunky co-star Michele Morrone responds to fan romance theory amid Machine Gun Kelly split

Lewandowski double helps Barca to 3-0 win over Brest in Champions League

DA suggests unusual idea for halting Trump's hush money case while upholding convictionNoneNEW YORK (AP) — He's making threats, traveling abroad and negotiating with world leaders. Donald Trump has more than a month and a half to go before he's sworn in for a second term. But the Republican president-elect is already moving aggressively not just to fill his Cabinet and outline policy goals, but to achieve those priorities . Trump has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico, prompting emergency calls and a visit from Canada's prime minister that resulted in what Trump claimed were commitments from both U.S. allies on new border security measures. The incoming president has warned there will be “ALL HELL TO PAY" if, before his inauguration on Jan. 20, 2025, Hamas does not release the hostages being held in Gaza . He has threatened to block the purchase of U.S. Steel by a Japanese company, warning "Buyer Beware!!!” And this weekend, Trump was returning to the global stage, joining a host of other foreign leaders for the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral five years after it was ravaged by a fire. On Saturday, he met with French President Emmanuel Macron — joined at the last minute by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy — and had plans to see Britain's Prince William also in Paris. Absent in Paris: lame duck President Joe Biden, who has largely disappeared from headlines, except when he issued a pardon of his son , Hunter, who was facing sentencing for gun crimes and tax evasion. First lady Jill Biden is attending in his place. “I think you have seen more happen in the last two weeks than you’ve seen in the last four years. And we’re not even there yet,” Trump said in an over-the-top boast at an awards ceremony Thursday night . For all of Trump's bold talk, though, it is unclear how many of his efforts will bear fruit. The pre-inauguration threats and deal-making are highly unusual, like so much of what Trump does, said Julian Zelizer, a political historian at Princeton University. “Transitions are always a little complicated in this way. Even though we talk about one president at a time," he said, “the reality is one president plus. And that plus can act assertively sometimes." Zelizer said that is particularly true of Trump, who was president previously and already has relationships with many foreign leaders such as Macron, who invited both Trump and Biden to Paris this weekend as part of the Notre Dame celebration. “Right now he’s sort of governing even though he’s not the president yet. He’s having these public meetings with foreign leaders, which aren't simply introductions. He's staking out policy and negotiating things from drug trafficking to tariffs," Zelizer said. Trump already has met with several foreign leaders, in addition to a long list of calls. He hosted Argentinian President Javier Milei in Florida at his Mar-a-Lago club in November. After the tariff threat, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a pilgrimage to Mar-a-Lago for a three-hour dinner meeting. Canadian officials later said the country is ready to make new investments in border security, with plans for more helicopters, drones and law enforcement officers. Last Sunday, Trump dined with Sara Netanyahu, wife of the Israeli prime minister. Incoming Trump aides have also been meeting with their future foreign counterparts. On Wednesday, several members of Trump's team, including incoming national security adviser Mike Waltz, met with Andriy Yermak, a top aide to Zelenskyy, in Washington, as Ukraine tries to win support for its ongoing efforts to defend itself from Russian invasion, according to a person familiar with the meeting. Yermak also met with Trump officials in Florida, he wrote on X . That comes after Trump's incoming Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, traveled to Qatar and Israel for high-level talks about a cease-fire and hostage deal in Gaza, according to a U.S familiar with the efforts, meeting with the prime ministers of both countries. There is no prohibition on incoming officials or nominees meeting with foreign officials, and it is common and fine for them to do so — unless those meetings are designed to subvert or otherwise impact current U.S. policy. Trump aides were said to be especially cognizant of potential conflicts given their experience in 2016, when interactions between Trump allies and Russian officials came under scrutiny. That included a phone call in which Trump's incoming national security adviser, Michael Flynn, discussed new sanctions with Russia’s ambassador to the United States, suggesting things would improve after Trump became president. Flynn was later charged with lying to the FBI about the conversation. Trump’s incoming press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that, “All transition officials have followed applicable laws in their interactions with foreign nationals.” She added: “World leaders recognize that President Trump is returning to power and will lead with strength to put the best interests of the United States of America first again. That is why many foreign leaders and officials have reached out to correspond with President Trump and his incoming team.” Such efforts can nonetheless cause complications. If, say, Biden is having productive conversations on a thorny foreign policy issue and Trump weighs in, that could make it harder for Biden “because people are hearing two different voices” that may be in conflict, Zelizer said. Leaders like Russia's Vladimir Putin and Netanyahu may also anticipate a more favorable incoming administration and wait Biden out, hoping for more a better deal. It also remains unclear how extensively the Biden administration has been kept apprised of Trump transition efforts. Although there is no requirement that an incoming administration coordinate calls and meetings with foreign officials with the State Department or National Security Council, that has long been considered standard practice. That is, in part, because transition teams, particularly in their early days and weeks, do not always have the latest information about the state of relations with foreign nations and may not have the resources, including interpretation and logistical ability, to handle such meetings efficiently. Still, the Biden and Trump teams have been talking, particularly on the Middle East, with the incoming and outgoing administrations having agreed to work together on efforts to free hostages who remain in held in Gaza, according to a U.S. official, who, like others, was not authorized to comment publicly about the sensitive talks and spoke on condition of anonymity. That includes conversations between Witkoff and Biden’s foreign policy team as well as Waltz and Biden national security adviser Jake Sullivan. Last month, Biden administration officials said they had kept Trump’s team closely apprised of efforts to broker a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah on the Israel-Lebanon border. “I just want to be clear to all of our adversaries, they can’t play the incoming Trump administration off of the Biden administration. I’m regularly talking to the Biden people. And so, this is not a moment of opportunity or wedges for them," Waltz said Friday in a Fox Business interview. But when it comes to immigration, Biden administration officials haven’t been entirely in the loop on discussions around how to execute on Trump’s pledge to deport millions of migrants, according to four administration officials with knowledge of the transition who spoke on condition of anonymity. That’s not terribly surprising given how differently the teams view migration. Trump’s team, meanwhile, is already claiming credit for everything from gains in the stock and cryptocurrency markets to a decision by Walmart to roll back diversity, equity and inclusion policies Trump opposes. “Promises Kept — And President Trump Hasn’t Even Been Inaugurated Yet,” read one press release that claimed, in part, that both Canada and Mexico have already pledged "immediate action” to help “stem the flow of illegal immigration, human trafficking, and deadly drugs entering the United States." Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has stopped short of saying Trump mischaracterized their call in late November. But she said Friday that Trump “has his own way of communicating, like when we had the phone call and he wrote that we were going to close the border. That was never talked about in the phone call.” Earlier this week, Mexico carried out what it claimed was its largest seizure of fentanyl pills ever. Seizures over the summer had been as little as 50 grams per week, and after the Trump call, they seized more than a ton. Security analyst David Saucedo said that "under the pressure by Donald Trump, it appears President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration is willing to increase the capture of drug traffickers and drug seizures that Washington is demanding.” Biden, too, tried to take credit for the seizure in a statement Friday night. ___ Associated Press writers Matthew Lee, Aamer Madhani, Colleen Long and Ellen Knickmeyer in Washington and Mark Stevenson in Mexico City contributed to this report.

Australians are so exhausted they've become less productive at work, chucking sickies or having a surreptitious nap on the job, according to new sleep data. or signup to continue reading Fifteen per cent of workers have admitted to taking a sneaky nap at work, while 30 per cent of shift workers say they have fallen asleep on the job, according to . More than half of the 1003 people surveyed reported turning up for work exhausted this past year with the vast majority of 90 per cent saying it had effected their productivity by up to 15 per cent. Three in 10 admitted to faking being sick and taking the day off because they were tired, while eight in 10 fly-in-fly-out workers said they were turning up to their long shifts exhausted. As well as being a less-than-desirable situation for Australian employees, the exhaustion levels are having an impact on businesses and the economy too, sleep expert Amanda Slinger says. "Poor sleep is a critical workplace issue, affecting both employee and organisational health and performance through higher absenteeism, reduced productivity, and weakened innovation," said Ms Slinger, founder of SleepSpot. "When employees are underslept, they're at greater risk of errors, poor decisions, and stress-related illnesses, which directly impact an organisation's bottom line." HIF's CEO Justin James concurred said it was concerning how exhausted Australia was as a nation, describing sleep as "one of the three pillars of health". "Not getting enough of it is clearly costing the economy dearly - but the health impacts are so significant, and often underestimated," he said. "Not enough importance is placed on sleep in Australia... There are no medals for 'powering through'; sleep is a health issue, and we need to treat it as such. No one needs to 'fake a sickie' if they're tired." The results of the survey complement the findings of the , conducted by Real Insurance, which found while most Australians considered eight hours to constitute a "good sleep", on average people averaged seven. Nearly four in 10 people had frequent or consistent struggles with sleep difficulties with stress and anxiety, financial worries or family concerns most likely to keep people up at night, the survey of 1202 people found. The sleep issues contributed to or made worse several other health issues facing Australians, including mental health, high blood pressure, a weakened immune system and obesity, it said. Research by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has found nearly half of all Australian adults report at least two sleep-related problems including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, and stroke. People are aware of the importance of sleep and are making moves to address the issue, the Real Sleep Report found, with nearly half adopting a sleeping schedule, avoiding caffeine, alcohol and nicotine or maintaining a balanced diet in a bid to improve their sleep quality. Three in 10 are using health supplements designed to promote better sleep and a quarter of Australians have sought medical advice for their problem in the bedroom. Sex has a role to play in better sleep, according to the Real Sleep Report, with 68 per cent of respondents reporting better sleep if they have frequent sex and, conversely, a lack of sleep negatively affecting the libido of 63 per cent. However, nearly half of respondent prioritised a better sleep over sex. But the impact of a bad night's sleep on workplace activity is pronounced in this report too, with more than 40 per cent saying they had called in sick in the past year due to tiredness and 12 per cent admitting to doing so four times or more. Ms Slinger says there are steps that can be taken in the workplace, through targeted education and smart work design, to enhance employee sleep health. HIF is practising what they preach with their staff encouraged to "nap openly" in a dedicated sleep space in their head office, Mr James said. 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 Advertisement

[Catherine Thorbecke] Hanoi follows Beijing in cyber rulesSKOPJE, North Macedonia (AP) — A political party in North Macedonia on Saturday demanded authorities ban social networks whose content incites violence and self-destructive behavior after several young people were seriously injured in connection with the popular “Superman challenge” on TikTok. Health authorities said at least 17 students, ages 10 to 17, were brought to hospitals in the capital Skopje and other towns over the past week with broken bones, contusions and bruises. The children were injured after being thrown into the air by their friends to fly like superheroes and get applause on the internet.

India News | SpaDeX Mission: ISRO Says Launch Vehicle Moved to First Launch PadLucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday stressed on adopting virtual ICUs , telemedicine , and artificial intelligence in the medical sector to address future healthcare challenges. Speaking at the 120th foundation day of King George's Medical University , the CM said institutions like IIT Kanpur, UPTU, SGPGIMS, and KGMU must collaborate for better healthcare solutions. He assured that funds would never be an issue for KGMU projects. The CM said the state govt has allocated Rs 300 crore to KGMU for new machines and labs, Rs 377 crore for a surgery department, Rs 46 crore for fire safety, and Rs 70 crore for expansion of the cardiology department. He said govt has provided all required resources to KGMU it needs to grow and now the focus should be on improving services and planning for the next 100 years. He praised KGMU for its exceptional efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic, which provided critical support to those in need. He also awarded medals and certificates to 67 meritorious MBBS and BDS students. Yogi said while several nations adopted advanced medical technologies years ago, India still needs to catch up. Yogi shared how his govt has worked to eliminate corruption and ensure public projects are completed with integrity. He said, "When our govt came to office, many funds were unused and lying in PLA accounts due to a lack of timely utilisation. These funds were recovered and used to help farmers, pay salaries, and complete important projects. We also instructed institutions to complete projects in a time-bound manner," he added. Expressing concern over the rising number of road accident deaths, he said over 25,000 lives were lost in road accidents last year in UP, with 40% of the victims in the 18-40 age group. To prevent such tragedies, he urged citizens to follow traffic rules. He also highlighted the critical role of trauma centers in saving the lives of accident victims. Speaking about the importance of organ donation, the CM asked doctors to explain to families of brain dead patients how organ donation can help others. "We need to educate the public that if a brain dead person can save another's life through organ donation, it should be embraced," he added. Yogi also voiced concern on mental health problems caused by excessive smartphone use. He suggested that experts from KGMU and IIT should run campaigns to educate people about the harmful effects of excess screen time. He advised doctors and healthcare workers to be kind and caring toward patients. "Even after they recover, patients will always remember how they were treated by the hospital staff," he said. Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak in his address said improvements are being made in healthcare and medical education across the state. He emphasised that there is no shortage of funds and said Rs 300 crore has been allocated solely for purchasing medical equipment for KGMU, compared to the previous allocation of Rs 50 crore. This increase will bring substantial improvement in diagnostic and treatment facilities, he added. State minister Mayankeshwar Sharan Singh said improvement in OPD facilities and diagnostic procedures in hospitals reflects govt's continuous efforts to better healthcare facilities.10 Famous Authors Who Had Surprising Day Jobs Before Writing

L.A. Galaxy beat New York Red Bulls 2-1 to win record sixth MLS Cup championship

In her new book, “We Will Rest! The Art of Escape,” the author and academic says you too can flee the toxic grind culture.It’s not hard to understand the value tight end Josh Oliver brings to the Vikings. ADVERTISEMENT Just listen to the way people talk about him. “He’s an animal,” tight end T.J. Hockenson said. “Once he gets his hands on somebody, it’s kind of like, ‘Good luck.'” It was similar sentiment from offensive coordinator Wes Phillips. “He’s the best blocking tight end in the league, and that’s no disrespect to anybody else,” Phillips said. “We will take Josh over anybody in this league in the role that he’s in. It’s not only that he’s physically imposing as a 270-pound man. It’s the attitude that he plays with out there.” ADVERTISEMENT What are the Vikings losing now that Oliver has been ruled out with an ankle injury? His absence will be felt most when the Vikings try to run the ball against the Chicago Bears on Sunday afternoon at Soldier Field. Though he has proved he can contribute in the passing game, Oliver has been a force in the running game since signing with the Vikings. There have been multiple times this season that Oliver had singlehandedly carved out space for running back Aaron Jones to go to work. That’s partially why Hockenson has played only about 50% of the offensive snaps since returning from a torn anterior cruciate ligament a few weeks ago. Even if the Vikings are often telegraphing a run when Oliver is on the field, they don’t care because they feel that strongly about his ability as a blocker. “You see it every single week,” Phillips said. “He’s moving large men and putting them on the ground.” ADVERTISEMENT It’s safe to assume Oliver would suit up for the Vikings if he were able to do so. He’s been playing through a wrist injury for the past few weeks, for example, and has still been extremely effective at the point of attack. How tough is it to replace Oliver in a vacuum? “It’s a big challenge because of all the things he does on a snap in and snap out basis,” head coach Kevin O’Connell said. “We will see some guys make some impacts on some different downs and distances than we have maybe seen up to this point.” ADVERTISEMENT The only other players on the injury report for the Vikings are tight end Nick Muse (hand) and edge rusher Gabe Murphy (knee). Both players were officially listed as questionable and being full participants in the walkthrough on Friday afternoon at TCO Performance Center. ______________________________________________________ This story was written by one of our partner news agencies. Forum Communications Company uses content from agencies such as Reuters, Kaiser Health News, Tribune News Service and others to provide a wider range of news to our readers. Learn more about the news services FCC uses here .

F-16 Sortie Tests Writer’s Mettle On Supersonic Training Mission(Bloomberg) — Chinese curbs on exports of three niche metals to the US have already rattled the market. Now, a bigger clampdown looks set to have far-reaching ramifications for supply chains feeding American defense and chip-making industries. Beijing this month slapped a ban on US-bound exports of gallium, germanium and antimony in a tit-for-tat move in a technology trade war. The metals are important because they have crucial uses in many Western industries from military tech to semiconductors to satellites. The ban may seem symbolic at first, given restrictions imposed more than a year ago had wiped out direct exports of Chinese gallium and germanium to the US. That pushed up prices and made it harder for traders to source buffer stocks. Yet panic levels are rising, because this time Beijing could crimp supplies further with rules prohibiting foreign companies and countries from helping US manufacturers to evade the controls. For instance, the measures could prevent international firms from reprocessing Chinese gallium, germanium and antimony in third countries, and then selling those products into the US. End buyers of those metals — such as the chip, aerospace and defence sectors — may have little choice but to try to use less, recycle more or strike deals with the few Western companies who can potentially start new production. There are also worries that other critical materials could be targeted if tensions escalate. Chinese metal that has been reprocessed elsewhere and re-routed to the US has offered a lifeline for American manufacturers, particularly in the gallium market. But those flows will probably dwindle as suppliers fear reprisals from Beijing, according to people with knowledge of the trade, who asked not to be identified due to the commercially sensitive nature of the matter. The tiny size of those markets and limited companies participating in them mean such sales would be easy to track, and being blacklisted by China would have huge repercussions for firms involved, the people said. It will be relatively easier for China to stop gallium shipments via third countries, given it’s a niche market, said Uchi Wakaaki, director of overseas business at Wing Co., Japan’s largest importer of the metal. Wing’s imports from China have halved this year due to the knock-on impact of trade curbs, he said. The impact on supply chains will vary, but traders, analysts and suppliers broadly expect Beijing’s ban to materially tighten global markets and boost metal prices in the coming months. Prices are already high. Germanium — which is over 300 times more expensive than copper — and antimony have hit records, while gallium is at a 13-year high, data from Fastmarkets show. Chipmaker Intel Corp. said the ban won’t significantly threaten production given its global supply sources. But since last year’s restrictions, several niche manufacturers in the sector have warned of risks for securing components or selling their products if they become more expensive to make. They include French night-vision technology company Exosens SAS and Lumentum Holdings Inc., which makes lasers for the semiconductor, defense and renewables sectors. AXT Inc., a semiconductor manufacturer that produces gallium products in China to supply US plants, said in some cases the government hasn’t issued export licenses, and shipments have been delayed. Exosens and Lumentum didn’t respond to requests for comment about the impact of this month’s ban. A spokesperson for AXT also didn’t respond to an email requesting comment, and a message left on the company’s general voicemail wasn’t replied to. In the longer term, industry insiders say the challenge will be securing new or alternative supplies, and finding refiners who can transform them into extremely pure forms that manufacturers need. There’s also the question of whether China could target other commodities. It’s the dominant supplier of dozens of critical minerals, but analysts and traders are focusing on ones that have key applications in the defense sector, and which the US doesn’t produce in meaningful volumes. Possible candidates include hafnium, zirconium, tungsten, titanium, and indium, they said. “Industries that have never had an issue around material availability are all of a sudden waking up to the fact that there might be one,” said Ionut Lazar, principal consultant at researcher CRU Group. “For the smaller manufacturers who are really heavily reliant on that material being available — almost regardless of the price — that’s the concern.” Drawing on views from producers, traders, manufacturers and consultants, here’s a metal-by-metal breakdown of how China is exposing pinch points in the West’s defense and chip-making supply chains — and the impact: Gallium Like fellow minor metals germanium and antimony, gallium is typically extracted as byproduct from mining and refining mainstream commodities like zinc, copper, aluminum and gold. Annual gallium output totals less than 1,000 tons, with China producing virtually all of it. To highlight the minuscule market, China’s aluminum industry — which pumps out gallium as a byproduct — makes more than 40 million tons each year. The nation is so dominant because in addition to being by far the top aluminum producer, its refiners are also required by law to recover gallium. “If you really wanted to throttle a market, it would make sense to start there,” said Jack Bedder, founder of critical minerals consultancy Project Blue. “We’re still nowhere near the levels of muscle that China could flex in this space if it really wanted to.” International producers could in theory raise gallium production by investing in ways to extract it as a byproduct. Rio Tinto Group last week said it’s looking into whether that’s worth doing in Canada, and Metlen Energy & Metals SA is exploring something similar in Greece. Despite gallium’s price, some prospective producers are hesitant to invest and have sought commitments from US and European governments to fund projects. Some refiners also want minimum-price guarantees from manufacturers in return for long-term deals, people familiar with the matter said. That’s because suppliers are worried that prices could collapse if China lifts export restrictions or metal flows though prohibited channels. That’s a particular concern for gallium since China produced more than the world needed before the ban, meaning it risks building a domestic glut. Germanium Germanium is one example of how trade restrictions — including sanctions affecting Russian metals and mining — are shutting international merchants out of the market, reducing their role as suppliers of last resort in times like this. Alongside a handful of Chinese producers and a few alternative ones overseas, supplies of minor metals have traditionally been controlled by a group of specialist traders primarily operating out of London, New York, Hong Kong and Tokyo. They’ve historically built inventories when supplies are ample, before waiting — sometimes for years — to sell them when metal becomes scarce. But since China’s restrictions last year, many have been frozen out of the affected metals, with customs officials only approving shipments to established end users, according to people familiar with the matter. Germanium and gallium exports to traders’ main storage hubs in the Netherlands and Hong Kong have collapsed to zero, trade data show. That means less available metal on hand. Take Suzannah Lipmann’s family owned firm, famous among London’s tight-knit network of minor metals traders for having virtually every rare mineral in stock. Lipmann Walton & Co. no longer includes germanium on its list, having stepped out of that market for now in response to tightening trade restrictions. “Normally, the trade would find a way to solve these types of shortages if you leave it be,” said Lipmann, whose family has traded minor metals for three generations. “In a geopolitical crisis, normally the one thing that keeps on flowing is metal.” With traders ill-equipped to plug the gap, manufacturers have been tapping their own buffer stocks, seeking to lock in additional supplies from a handful of alternative Western refiners and asking governments for help in building more resilient supply chains. Beijing’s grip on germanium is looser than it is for gallium, but is still a concern for the US as it seeks to become less reliant on Chinese supplies. After China’s curbs last year, the Biden administration sent diplomats to Belgium and the Democratic Republic of Congo to shore up critical mineral supplies for domestic manufacturers, including defense and aerospace contractors who need extremely pure forms of germanium to keep satellites in orbit and missiles on target. It’s only the beginning of China’s “attempts to assert its dominance on critical minerals,” Jose Fernandez, US under secretary of state for economic growth, energy and the environment, said in Brussels this month. “I’m anticipating this will not be the last time we need to address this issue.” The US once dominated germanium supply more than China does today. Cold War-era scientists pioneered a process that made it one of the purest materials ever — with impurities reaching just one in every 10 trillion atoms. Umicore SA, which transforms germanium for use in high-tech products like thermal-imaging systems and radiation detectors, has partnered with Congo to process the metal from mine-waste dumps there in a deal brokered by US authorities. A key question is how quickly it can boost supplies. “This partnership is part of our overall strategy to diversify our supply sources and to strengthen the supply chain,” said Umicore, which has historically had agreements for large Chinese supplies. “We are confident that our sourcing strategy and our supply portfolio are sufficiently robust to secure continued operations and supplies to our customers.” Antimony Like many minor metals, antimony — widely used in munitions — has been oversupplied for much of this century as China’s rapid industrial expansion boosted output. But that has been changing in recent years as the county’s geological reserves shrink. While illicit exports via Vietnam in the past helped ease supply squeezes, better border monitoring and supply chain auditing by Western manufacturers have seen so-called border leakages drop in recent years, according to CRU. Looking ahead, such flows are “probably going to be more and more difficult,” said Willis Thomas, a principal consultant at CRU. The few deposits developed in countries like Tajikistan, Myanmar and Turkey aren’t large enough to make up for the shortfall in Chinese supply, and the big worry is when and where any new mines will be found. The only known US deposit sits in an abandoned gold mining region in Idaho and the US Defense Department has supported developer Perpetua Resources Corp. to help start production. That could reduce America’s antimony shortage, potentially contributing more than 30% of its needs. The problem is that development could take years and much more is needed to plug the global shortfall. Many end users remain worried about supplies. “At the time China made this announcement, we started getting an avalanche of calls from the Defense Department,” said Gary Evans, head of United States Antimony Corp, which runs a smelter in Montana that’s operating at about 50% of capacity due to a raw ore shortage. “The hard part is finding supply. We’ve been on the phone the last 120 days with companies trying to find supply.” —With assistance from Thomas Hall and Martin Ritchie.

mnl168 gaming

ATLANTA (AP) — The Atlanta Falcons are back in first place in the NFC South and again in control of their playoff hopes. Rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. showed the poise in his first NFL start the Falcons will need to take advantage of their opportunity to end a six-year playoff drought. Powered by a big-play defense that produced two pick-6s, a solid starting debut by Penix and two rushing touchdowns by Bijan Robinson, the Falcons cruised past the hapless New York Giants 34-7 on Sunday. On Sunday night, the Falcons (8-7) received the assist they needed when Tampa Bay lost at Dallas . Because the Falcons swept the Buccaneers, they hold the tiebreaker advantage if they remain tied atop the division. The Falcons have games remaining at Washington on Sunday night and at home against Carolina to close the regular season. If Atlanta wins both games, it would win the division and have a home playoff game. The Falcons are assured of their best record since a 10-6 finish under coach Dan Quinn in 2017, their most recent playoff season. Quinn is in his first season as Washington's coach and has led the Commanders (10-5) to three straight wins, including Sunday's 36-33 victory over Philadelphia. Penix, the No. 8 overall pick in this year's NFL draft, was promoted after coach Raheem Morris benched Kirk Cousins. Penix completed 18 of 27 passes for 202 yards with one interception on a pass that should have been caught by tight end Kyle Pitts. Penix is not a dual-threat quarterback, but he showed the ability to escape pressure in the pocket that Cousins lacks following his 2023 Achilles tendon injury. The left-hander's superior arm strength also was immediately obvious. What’s working Robinson's production provided a safety net for the offense which helped make for a smooth transition to Penix. Robinson had scoring runs of 2 and 4 yards. Robinson has rushed for 10 touchdowns this season. He's the first Atlanta player with 10 more more rushing touchdowns since Devonta Freeman during the 2016 Super Bowl season. Robinson ran for 94 yards on 22 carries and had 103 yards from scrimmage. His 11th game this season with at least 100 yards from scrimmage are the most for the Falcons since Warrick Dunn's 11 in 2005. Morris said Robinson deserves to be considered with Philadelphia's Saquon Barkley in discussions regarding the league's top running backs. “Bijan has been outstanding all year in the things that he’s able to do," Morris said. “He’s special. If it wasn’t for this other guy out in Philly, he’d get a lot more recognition across the league. But that guy is having a special year, and Bijan’s not far behind him.” What needs help With kicker Younghoe Koo on injured reserve and watching from the sideline, Riley Patterson was wide left on his first field-goal attempt from 43 yards. Patterson rebounded to make attempts from 52 and 37 yards. Stock up Jessie Bates III and Matthew Judon each had a pick-6 to highlight a day of big plays for the defense. Arnold Ebiketie had his fifth sack of the season and added a fumble recovery. Kaden Ellis added a strip-sack. He also has five sacks this season, including sacks in four consecutive games. It is the longest streak for Atlanta since Patrick Kerney had sacks in five straight games in 2001. Stock down There was some thought that a change at quarterback could be good news for Pitts, who often seemed to be missing in action with Cousins running the offense. After all, a tight end often is a natural target for quick passes from a rookie making his first start. Instead, Pitts had a poor start to the Penix era when he bobbled his first pass from the left-hander, creating an interception by cornerback Cor’Dale Flott. Pitts caught a 7-yard pass on his only other target. For the season, Pitts has 41 catches for 543 yards and three touchdowns. Injuries There will be much interest in this week's injury report after WR Drake London (hamstring) was hurt in the second half. Morris provided an optimistic postgame outlook on London. CB Antonio Hamilton (quad) did not return after leaving the game in the first half. Key number 8: Bates has four interceptions and four forced fumbles. His combined eight forced turnovers lead the NFL. Next steps The game against Jayden Daniels and the Commanders is a reminder Penix was only the fourth of six quarterbacks selected in the first round of the NFL draft. Daniels, from LSU, was the No. 2 overall pick behind Caleb Williams by Chicago. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl Charles Odum, The Associated PressMARTIN KEOWN TALKS TACTICS: Tottenham's flying full back Pedro Porro will be a handful for shaky Man City as Pep Guardiola's men bid to end four-game losing streak

Three pro-BNP organisations yesterday submitted a memorandum to the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, demanding the stop of misinformation about Bangladesh and ensuring the safety of Bangladeshi missions in India. The memorandum also urged investigations into the recent attack on Bangladesh's Assistant High Commission in Agartala and sought the protection of minority rights in both countries. A six-member delegation from Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, Swechchhasebak Dal, and Chhatra Dal handed over the memorandum to an official of the Indian mission in Baridhara at 1:15pm. The team consisted of Jubo Dal President Monayem Munna, General Secretary Nurul Islam Nayan, Swechchhasebak Dal President SM Jilani, General Secretary Rajib Ahsan, Chhatra Dal President Rakibul Islam Rakib, and General Secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir. Addressing reporters in front of the Indian High Commission after submitting the memorandum, Jubo Dal President Munna said, "There is no compromise when it comes to Bangladesh's independence and sovereignty ... We want friendly and harmonious neighbours, not ones with an aggressive mindset." Earlier in the day, thousands of activists from the three organisations began their protest march at 11:30am from the BNP's Nayapaltan central office. The march, which was jointly organised by Jubo Dal, Chhatra Dal, and Swechchhasebak Dal, was halted near Rampura Bridge at 12:35pm, where police set up barricades and urged cooperation. The march was organised in protest of the attack on the Assistant High Commission, desecration of the Bangladesh's national flag in Kolkata, and an alleged conspiracy to incite communal unrest. The two-page memorandum, addressed to Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma, expressed concerns about recent events that could strain relations between Bangladesh and India. Referring to the attack on the Assistant High Commission of Bangladesh and the desecration of the national flag of Bangladesh, the document stated, "This is a serious breach of diplomatic norms and international law, including the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961, which mandates the inviolability of diplomatic missions." Calling for immediate action against those responsible, the memorandum also criticised the Indian government's reaction to the recent arrest of an expelled ISKCON leader. It added that unreasonable and unnecessary tensions have been fuelled by misinformation, which misrepresents facts and is contrary to the spirit of friendship between our nations. The pro-BNP bodies expressed "dismay" over the role of Indian media, accusing outlets of "sensationalising events and spreading aggressive misinformation" about minority issues in Bangladesh. "Such disinformation depicts a clear erosion of journalistic integrity," the memorandum read, adding, "Honest reporting and constructive engagement are vital for fostering trust between the two nations." The memorandum affirmed BNP's commitment to safeguarding minority rights in Bangladesh. "Any attacks on any minority are driven by personal disputes or land conflicts rather than deep-seated communal animosities. "In Bangladesh, Muslim volunteers actively protect Hindu communities and their religious establishments from opportunistic violence." The three pro-BNP bodies also urged the Indian authorities to ensure the safety and security of minorities, including Muslims, and their religious establishments in India. Highlighting the importance of a stable and mutually respectful partnership between Bangladesh and India, the memorandum said, "The BNP remains committed to fostering strong and friendly relations based on the UN Charter principle of the sovereign equality of all its members." Meanwhile, speaking at a brief rally before the march, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi alleged that the Indian ruling party is trying to send back Sheikh Hasina, which is nothing but direct aggression. "What the ruling party of India is doing to bring Sheikh Hasina back is nothing but direct aggression in the language of political science." He also accused Indian politicians and media of fabricating false narratives about minority oppression in Bangladesh.

DENVER , Dec. 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - The Board of Trustees (the "Board") of Principal Real Estate Income Fund (the "Fund"), announced today that it has approved a renewal of the Fund's share repurchase program. Under the share repurchase program, the Fund may purchase up to approximately 2.1% of its outstanding common shares beginning January 21, 2025 , in the open market, until January 21, 2026 . As part of its evaluation of options to enhance shareholder value, the Board has authorized ALPS Advisors, Inc. (the "Advisor") to repurchase the Fund's common shares at such times and in such amounts as the Advisor reasonably believes may enhance shareholder value. The Board and the Advisor continually analyze options to enhance shareholder value and potentially reduce the discount between the market price of the Fund's common share and the net asset value per share ("NAV"). The Board and the Advisor believe that the share repurchase program may further these goals because the program allows the Fund to acquire its shares in the open market at a discount to NAV, which will increase the NAV and thereby benefit remaining shareholders while potentially providing additional liquidity in the trading of the fund shares. The Board will monitor the repurchase program and will continue to consider strategic options to enhance shareholder value in the long-term. The Fund's repurchase program will be implemented on a discretionary basis under the direction of the Advisor. There is no assurance that the Fund will purchase shares at any specific discount level or in any specific amount or that the market price of the Fund's shares will increase as a result of any share repurchases. RISKS An investment in the Fund is not appropriate for all investors and is not intended to be a complete investment program. The Fund is designed as a long-term investment and not as a trading vehicle. Investing in the Fund involves risks, including the risk that you may receive little or no return on your investment or that you may lose part or even all of your investment and exposure to below-investment grade investments (i.e., "junk bonds"). The Fund's net asset value will vary and its distribution rate may vary and both may be affected by numerous factors, including changes in the market spread over a specified benchmark, market interest rates and performance of the broader equity markets. Fluctuations in net asset value may be magnified as a result of the Fund's use of leverage. Therefore, before investing you should carefully consider the risks that you assume when you invest in the Fund's common shares. Securities backed by commercial real estate assets are subject to market risks similar to those of direct ownership of commercial real estate assets including, but not limited to, declines in the value of real estate, declines in rental or occupancy rates and risks related to general and local economic conditions. The Fund's investment objectives and policies are not designed to seek to return the initial investment to investors that purchase shares. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain an annual report or semi-annual report which contains this and other information visit www.principalcef.com or call 855.838.9485. Please read them carefully before investing . Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a discount from their net asset value and initial offering prices. NOT FDIC INSURED | May Lose Value | No Bank Guarantee The Fund is a closed-end fund and does not continuously issue shares for sale as open-end mutual funds do. Since the initial public offering, the Fund now trades in the secondary market. Investors wishing to buy or sell shares need to place orders through an intermediary or broker. The share price of a closed-end fund is based on the market's value. ALPS Advisors, Inc. is the investment adviser to the Fund. Principal Real Estate Investors LLC is the investment sub-adviser to the Fund. Principal Real Estate Investors LLC is not affiliated with ALPS Advisors, Inc. or any of its affiliates. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. is the FINRA Member firm. About SS&C Technologies SS&C is a global provider of services and software for the financial services and healthcare industries. Founded in 1986, SS&C is headquartered in Windsor, Connecticut , and has offices around the world. Some 20,000 financial services and healthcare organizations, from the world's largest companies to small and mid-market firms, rely on SS&C for expertise, scale, and technology. Additional information about SS&C (Nasdaq: SSNC) is available at www.ssctech.com . About SS&C ALPS Advisors SS&C ALPS Advisors, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SS&C Technologies, is a leading provider of investment products for advisors and institutions. With over $26.24 billion under management as of September 30, 2024 , SS&C ALPS Advisors is an open architecture boutique investment manager offering portfolio building blocks, active insight and an unwavering drive to guide clients to investment outcomes across sustainable income, thematic and alternative growth strategies. For more information, visit www.alpsfunds.com. About SS&C Technologies Principal Real Estate Investors manages or sub-advises $102 billion in commercial real estate assets, as of September 30, 2024 . The firm's real estate capabilities include both public and private equity and debt investment alternatives. Principal Real Estate Investors is the dedicated real estate group of Principal Global Investors, a diversified asset management organization and a member of the Principal Financial Group ® . PRE000436 12/18/2025 View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/principal-real-estate-income-fund-continues-share-repurchase-program-302335508.html SOURCE Principal Real Estate Income Fund

Cartoon: TariffsIn the first full US reaction to Assad's overthrow by an Islamist-led coalition of rebel factions, Biden also warned that Washington will "remain vigilant" against the emergence of terrorist groups, announcing that US forces had just conducted fresh strikes against militants from the Islamic State organization. "The fall of the regime is a fundamental act of justice," Biden said, speaking from the White House. "It's a moment of historic opportunity for the long-suffering people of Syria." Asked by reporters what should happen to the deposed president, who reportedly has fled to Moscow, Biden said that "Assad should be held accountable." Biden -- set to step down in January and make way for Republican Donald Trump's return to power -- said Washington will assist Syrians in rebuilding. "We will engage with all Syrian groups, including within the process led by the United Nations, to establish a transition away from the Assad regime toward independent, sovereign" Syria "with a new constitution," he said. However, Biden cautioned that hardline Islamist groups within the victorious rebel alliance will be under scrutiny. "Some of the rebel groups that took down Assad have their own grim record of terrorism and human right abuses," Biden said. The United States had "taken note" of recent statements by rebels suggesting they had since moderated, he said, but cautioned: "We will assess not just their words, but their actions." Biden said Washington is "clear eyed" that the Islamic State extremist group, often known as ISIS, "will try to take advantage of any vacuum to reestablish" itself in Syria. "We will not let that happen," he said, adding that on Sunday alone, US forces had conducted strikes against ISIS inside Syria. The US military said the strikes were conducted by warplanes against Islamic State operatives and camps. Strikes were carried out against "over 75 targets using multiple US Air Force assets, including B-52s, F-15s, and A-10s," the US Central Command said on social media. Earlier, Biden met with his national security team at the White House to discuss the crisis. Assad's reported departure comes less than two weeks after the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group challenged more than five decades of Assad family rule with a lightning rebel offensive that broke long-frozen frontlines in Syria's civil war. They announced Sunday they had taken the capital Damascus and that Assad had fled, prompting celebrations nationwide and a ransacking of Assad's luxurious home. A Kremlin source told Russian news agencies that the deposed leader was now in Moscow, along with his family. The US military has around 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in Iraq as part of the international coalition established in 2014 to help combat the Islamic State jihadist group. It has regularly struck targets in the country including those linked to Iranian-backed militias. Tehran was a major backer of Assad's government. Biden also confirmed US authorities believe the American journalist Austin Tice, who was abducted in Syria in 2012, still lives. "We believe he's alive," Biden said, but the US has yet "to identify where he is." bur-sms/mlm

London honored for supporting student mental health and eliminating barriers to care NATICK, Mass. , Dec. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Boston Business Journal honored Uwill founder and CEO Michael London as part of its 2025 Innovators in Healthcare list . Honorees represent a cross-section of Boston -based innovators addressing some of the most urgent and pressing challenges in the health care industry. London is the founding CEO of Uwill , the leading mental health and wellness solution proudly supporting more than 3 million students at 400 institutions globally. Utilizing its proprietary technology and counselor team, Uwill pioneered the first student and therapist matching platform. The solution offers an immediate appointment with a licensed counselor based on student preferences, all modalities of teletherapy, a direct crisis connection, wellness programming, realtime data, and support. "It's truly an honor to be recognized among this incredible group of innovators," said Michael London , Uwill founder and CEO. "At Uwill, our mission is to break down barriers to mental health care, delivering immediate and accessible support to students worldwide. This recognition reflects more than innovation—it underscores our unwavering commitment to addressing a vital need for students everywhere." London is a recognized thought-leader and pioneer within social impact entrepreneurship, having created more than one billion dollars in company value throughout his career. In 2013, he founded Examity, a leader in learning validation and online proctoring. Prior, London led Bloomberg Institute, an EdTech start-up funded by former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg . Earlier in his career, he founded College Coach and co-founded EdAssist, both acquired by Bright Horizons Family Solutions. In 2019, he was a finalist for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award and held a position on the Massachusetts Governor's Commission for Digital Education and Lifelong Learning. Michael is a current Trustee at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. He is a Member of the Advisory Board at Babson College where he graduated with honors. He also received his MBA from Boston University . About Uwill: Uwill is the leading mental health and wellness solution for colleges and students. As the most cost-effective way to enhance a college's mental health offering, Uwill partners with more than 400 institutions, including Princeton University , the Ohio State University , Santa Fe Community College , and University of Alabama - Online. Uwill is also the exclusive teletherapy education partner for the Online Learning Consortium and teletherapy education partner of NASPA. For more information, visit uwill.com . Contact: Brett Silk bsilk@uwill.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/uwill-founder--ceo-michael-london-named-innovator-in-healthcare-302338655.html SOURCE Uwill, Inc

President Joe Biden spoke Sunday on the collapse of the Syrian government under Bashar Assad, calling the moment a "fundamental act of justice" after more than two decades of oppression. "After 13 years of civil war in Syria and more than half a century of brutal authoritarian rule by Bashar Assad and his father before him, rebel forces have forced Assad to resign his office and flee the country," Biden said. "We're not sure where he is but there's word that he's in Moscow. At long last the Assad regime has fallen. This regime brutalized and tortured and killed literally hundreds of thousands of innocent Syrians. The fall of the regime is a fundamental act of justice. It's a moment of historic opportunity for the long-suffering people of Syria." RELATED STORY | The fall of Bashar Assad after 13 years of war in Syria brings to an end a decades-long dynasty President Biden, speaking from the White House just hours after rebels overthrew the Syrian government and Assad fled the country, said while the news is positive for the Middle East, warned that it marks "a moment of risk and uncertainty." "As we all turn to the question of what comes next, the United States will work with our partners and the stakeholders in Syria to help them seize an opportunity to manage the risks," he said. "You know, for years, the main backers of Assad have been Iran, Hezbollah and Russia. But over the last week their support collapsed — all three of them. Because all three of them are far weaker today than they were when I took office." RELATED STORY | Family of kidnapped American reporter still believes he is alive in Syria Meanwhile, President Biden also spoke on Austin Tice, a former U.S. Marine and freelance journalist who disappeared in August 2012 while covering the Syrian civil war. Tice's family believes he is still alive in Syria, and President Biden said his administration will continue to work to locate him and bring him home. "We believe he's alive. We think we can get him back. But we have no direct evidence of that yet and Assad should be held accountable," he said. "... We want to get him out."

Sports on TV for Thursday, Dec. 19

Gemini Advanced users can now access Google's most experimental model

Ange Postecoglou's 'make or break' Tottenham game revealed as Daniel Levy makes sack decision5️⃣ things we learned from Wednesday's eye-opening UCL actionB.C. landowners who have at least 100 trees on their property can apply to a Coquitlam-based conservation fund for money to save them. The Tree Legacy Society is reaching out with cash to preserve the privately owned trees and stop them from being cut or commercial harvested. Successful candidates are eligible to receive $1 per tree per year, for up to $25,000, when they ink an agreement of 15 years or more. Designed to combat climate change and to preserve forests for future generations, the society was founded last November by Marta Alcalde Gea, who emigrated from Spain to B.C. five years ago. “From the heat dome that claimed over 600 lives in Metro Vancouver a few years ago to the unprecedented tragedy that is striking Valencia — my hometown — where floods destroyed homes and claimed over 200 lives, it is frightening to witness the devastating effects of climate change around the world,” she said in a news release. “But beyond the grief, I feel an unwavering responsibility to act. Establishing a non-profit organization here in Coquitlam is my way of launching an innovative model of conservation that can ripple from our community to the entire world.” The society’s financial incentives to large landowners are part of a pilot project started by Gea who has more than a dozen years in environmental initiatives, law, technology and economics and has served in key roles in the European Parliament and with international foundations, according to the society’s website. For more details about the pilot program, you can visit the society's website . 📣 Got an opinion on this story or any others in the Tri-Cities? Send us a letter or email your thoughts or story tips to [email protected] . 📲 Want to stay updated on Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Anmore and Belcarra news? Sign up for our free daily newsletter . 💬 Words missing in an article? Your adblocker might be preventing hyperlinked text from appearing.AP Business SummaryBrief at 2:47 p.m. ESTmnl168 ph 。

Games on a college basketball schedule don't contrast much more than the two NC State has this week. The Wolfpack (6-3) host Coppin State (0-10) on Tuesday in Raleigh, N.C., then hit the road to challenge No. 10 Kansas on Saturday. NC State enters its unusual week after snapping a three-game skid with an 84-74 overtime win at home Saturday against Florida State in its Atlantic Coast Conference opener. Transfers Marcus Hill and Dontrez Styles each had their season high, scoring 23 and 21 points, respectively. They scored 13 of NC State's 14 points in overtime. "Dontrez Styles was tremendous," Wolfpack coach Kevin Keatts said. "In the second half, he made play after play." Hill, who was the top scorer last year at Bowling Green (20.5 points per game), and Styles, who was the second-leading scorer last year at Georgetown (12.8 ppg), combined to hit 14 of 25 shots and pull down 11 rebounds. The win followed defeats to then-No. 13 Purdue and BYU, both by double-digit margins, in the Rady Children's Invitational and a 63-59 loss to Texas in the SEC/ACC Challenge. "The little things that impact the game are defending, making free throws and blocking out," Keatts said. "We handled that much better than we did against Texas." Coppin State arrives in Raleigh on a 23-game losing streak dating to January -- the longest current run of futility in Division I. Each of the Eagles' losses this season have come by double-digit margins, though they have been more competitive lately, falling to Baltimore rival Loyola (Md.) 68-57 and at Wagner 65-52 last week. Julius Ellerbe III has been one of Coppin's most reliable players lately, scoring a combined 20 points in the last two games. He had 16 points and 12 rebounds in a loss to George Mason last month. Teammate Peter Oduro recorded a double-double, with 16 points and 10 rebounds, in last month's loss at Saint Joseph's. "These things take time," Coppin State second-year coach Larry Stewart said. "It takes time to establish your culture. It takes time to get the right players in your system." --Field Level Media

Germany to tighten criminal law as people-smuggling ‘action plan’ agreed with UK

None

He finished it by producing an astonishing save that vindicated those awards. The Argentina international illuminated a 0-0 draw between his Aston Villa team and Juventus in the Champions League on Wednesday by plucking the ball from behind him and scooping it off the goal line to deny Francisco Conceição what could have been the winner. Replays showed the ball was almost entirely over the line before Martinez hooked it clear, and the goalkeeper was quickly congratulated by his teammates. No save by Martinez will ever beat the one he pulled off for Argentina in the last seconds of extra time in the 2022 World Cup final , denying France striker Randal Kolo Muani and keeping teammate Lionel Messi’s dream alive of finally winning soccer’s biggest prize. He might just have run it close. It was fitting he produced his wonder save against Juve on the night he showed off the two Yashin Trophies he claimed at the Ballon d’Or awards ceremony in each of the past two years. The most recent one came last month. As for Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio, he finished the game relieved that what appeared to be a mistake in the final seconds of stoppage time didn't cost his team. Di Gregorio spilled a cross under pressure from Villa defender Diego Carlos and Morgan Rogers was there to poke the ball into the net. A goal was awarded by the on-field referee but after a two-minute check, it was ruled out for a foul on Di Gregorio by Carlos. AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

NEW YORK , Dec. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- To transform the landscape of algorithmic trading, global Fintech leader Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:BR), today announced the launch of an innovative AI-powered algorithm insights service for NYFIX. Driven by real-time liquidity mapping, the service is designed to empower asset managers, hedge funds, and other buy-side firms to achieve unprecedented accuracy, seamless workflow integration, and proven cost-efficiency. "Algo traders will now have a quantitative, data-driven service to power critical trading decisions," said George Rosenberger, Head of NYFIX, Broadridge Trading and Connectivity Solutions. "By harnessing the power of AI and historical insights, we're giving our clients the tools they need to navigate complex markets with greater precision and confidence. This innovative solution not only optimizes trading strategies, but also reduces costs, making it an invaluable asset for the buy-side." This is the first and only solution of its kind, using advanced AI to leverage public and private data to understand the liquidity landscape, particularly potential dark fill location. This approach identifies the ideal algorithmic execution for any given order, reducing outliers to improve overall trading costs. Traders benefit from real-time alerts and in-trade analysis, allowing for in-flight adjustments to stay aligned with their objectives, ensuring optimal strategy selection throughout the trading process. The NYFIX service was developed based on decades of proven research from Jeff Alexander and Linda Giordano , whose pioneering work at Babelfish Analytics established the standard for understanding routing dynamics, analyzing venue liquidity, and optimizing algorithm selection. This collaboration brings together unique and proprietary trader-focused insights with the trusted and transformational technological capabilities and extensive distribution capacity of Broadridge, creating a powerful service to enhance the trader's ability to improve performance. Available to NYFIX Order Routing customers in the U.S. equities market, the solution's framework is built to expand rapidly across other asset classes and regions, with future plans to extend access to clients on other Order Routing Networks. About Broadridge Broadridge Financial Solutions (NYSE: BR), is a global technology leader with the trusted expertise and transformative technology to help clients and the financial services industry operate, innovate, and grow. We power investing, governance, and communications for our clients – driving operational resiliency, elevating business performance, and transforming investor experiences. Our technology and operations platforms underpin the daily trading of more than $10 trillion of equities, fixed income and other securities globally. A certified Great Place to Work®, Broadridge is part of the S&P 500® Index, employing over 14,000 associates in 21 countries. For more information about us, please visit www.broadridge.com . Broadridge Contacts: Investors: Edings Thibault Head of Investor Relations, Broadridge broadridgeir@broadridge.com Media: Gregg Rosenberg Global Head of Corporate Communications Gregg.Rosenberg@broadridge.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/broadridge-announces-first-of-its-kind-ai-powered-algorithm-insights-service-302326596.html SOURCE Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.None

ANALYSIS: Legal threats close in on Israel’s NetanyahuWestern Kentucky vs. Kennesaw State Basketball Tickets – Saturday, January 11

NoneTimberwolves push back start time vs. Spurs because of issue with game court

NEET UG 2025: How to prepare for NEET UG in three months, see important topics and complete study planWinter Fest brings a chilly fun to fairgrounds

Europeans play to the Zionists’ danceElderly and vulnerable rural residents struggle with technology after 3G network shutdown - ABC News

Emergence Of False Prophets Sign Of End-Time – Rev. Isaac OmolehinThe Latest: Matt Gaetz withdraws his name from consideration as Trump’s attorney generalmnl168. ph 。

A fishing boat sank off the coast of Madh Koliwada in Mumbai's Malad area in the early hours of Sunday after it was hit by a cargo ship before being retrieved, though there were no reports of injuries to anyone, a police official said. ET Year-end Special Reads What kept India's stock market investors on toes in 2024? India's car race: How far EVs went in 2024 Investing in 2025: Six wealth management trends to watch out for The boat was retrieved by a group of eight other vessels in the area and brought to the shore, the official added. "The boat belonged to Madh Koliwada resident Hemdeep Harishchandra Tipri. It was hit by a cargo ship and sank. However, it was retrieved by a local rescue group called Savati. No one was injured. A sailor on the boat was rescued by those on the Savati boats," the official said. Navy and Coast Guard personnel also helped in the retrieval and rescue operation, the police official informed. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )

Trump Victory Forces Once Vocal Corner of Wall Street to Regroup

MICHELLE Keegan has announced she is pregnant with her first baby with husband and former Towie alum Mark Wright. Brassic star Michelle , 37, has been hiding any signs that she is expecting a child. Before announcing her pregnancy news on Instagram tonight, Michelle was seen showing tell tale signs that she is a blossoming mum-to-be. The star has been covering up her blooming figure over the past few months, teaming comfy trousers with sensible Ugg boots . The former Corrie star has been keeping her growing bump under wraps in oversized coats and thick winter jumpers. The Fool Me Once actress has also been spotted sporting an array of slouchy clothes including beanies, hoodies, trainers and jogging bottoms. Michelle, who usually keeps fans well-updated on social media, has shared far fewer Instagram posts recently as she navigates the first few months of the pregnancy. The brunette bombshell, who has recently been alcohol-free, admitted that she prefers nesting at home in favour of being out and about. Once a fan of late-night dinners in the early days of their romance, the star explained that she now favours an early night. She said: “I am happy to have a night on the sofa with our dogs watching TV and relaxing, but we do still like getting dressed up and go out for dinner.” The pregnant actress - who told fans over Christmas that she 'couldn't stop' eating - added: “In the old days we’d go out for dinner and drinks until the early hours. "But now after dinner, I’ll look at my watch and say, 'Its 9.30pm, we’d better get back home for bedtime'. "It’s a bit more boring now.” The married pair have been busy designing and building their forever home - just in time for their growing family. In 2021, the TV duo purchased a £3.5 m baby-friendly five-bedroom house, with a cinema room and an outdoor pool . Last August the couple threw a housewarming party to celebrate the completion of the project - which boasts plenty of space for a nursery. She told the Guardian: "It still gets me emotional. Because we’ve worked really hard for it. We’ve had to make a lot of sacrifices. "I missed lots of milestones in my life due to work. Mark went to LA and we spent months apart, which was hard. But, it’s worth it." Michelle said previously about wanting to settle down and have security in her life. "I missed lots of milestones in my life due to work. Mark went to LA and we spent months apart, which was hard. But, it’s worth it." Michelle went on to say that the house was also "about security" as "you never know when all this is going to end". The couple first met behind-the-scenes on The X Factor before subsequently bumping into each other at numerous other events after. A year later, the former TOWIE star asked Michelle out on a date which led to things becoming official in 2012. Mark popped the question to Michelle the following year during a romantic holiday in Dubai and they went on to marry in 2015. The couple married at St Mary’s Church in Bury St Edmunds in 2015, followed by a lavish reception at the Tudor mansion Hengrave Hall.

Seattle Kraken (10-10-1, in the Pacific Division) vs. Anaheim Ducks (8-8-3, in the Pacific Division) Anaheim, California; Monday, 10 p.m. EST BOTTOM LINE: The Seattle Kraken travel to the Anaheim Ducks looking to end a five-game road skid. Anaheim has a 2-4-0 record in Pacific Division play and an 8-8-3 record overall. The Ducks are 1-2-2 in games their opponents commit fewer penalties. Seattle is 2-1-0 against the Pacific Division and 10-10-1 overall. The Kraken have a 5-2-0 record in games they score one or more power-play goals. The teams meet Monday for the first time this season. TOP PERFORMERS: Ryan Strome has scored four goals with five assists for the Ducks. Leo Carlsson has over the past 10 games. Brandon Montour has scored six goals with eight assists for the Kraken. Shane Wright has over the past 10 games. LAST 10 GAMES: Ducks: 4-4-2, averaging 2.7 goals, 4.8 assists, 3.2 penalties and seven penalty minutes while giving up 3.2 goals per game. Kraken: 5-5-0, averaging 2.2 goals, 3.2 assists, 2.7 penalties and 6.5 penalty minutes while giving up 2.1 goals per game. INJURIES: Ducks: None listed. Kraken: None listed. ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar . The Associated Press

AP News Summary at 4:10 p.m. ESTThe Gauteng Department of Education has confirmed that yet another child has died due to suspected food poisoning. The Grade 2 learner from Thabisile Primary School in Diepkloof, Soweto, reportedly died on Friday, 22 November. GRADE 2 LEARNER DIES FROM SUSPECTED FOOD POISONING According to the Gauteng Department of Education the learner allegedly fell ill on Wednesday, 20 November, after reportedly consuming biscuits from a local spaza shop. Her condition reportedly worsened over the course of the next two days, and she was taken to Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital on Friday, where she was tragically declared deceased. Gauteng Education spokesperson Steve Mabona said at this stage, the exact cause of her passing remains unclear. The relevant authorities are conducting investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. Mabona said they have dispatched the psycho-social support unit to provide counselling to the affected family, learners, and staff at Thabisile Primary School on Monday, 25 November. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and school community during this difficult time. We remain committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all learners and will continue to monitor developments closely,” Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane said. Meanwhile, on Friday, a five-year-old Grade R learner also from Diepkloof in Soweto, Gauteng died from suspected food poisoning after consuming snacks bought from a local spaza shop. Three other minors who were hospitalised. FOODBORNE ILLNESSES CLASSIFIED AS A NATIONAL DISASTER On Thursday, 21 November, ministers leading the multidisciplinary teams in government responsible for the national response to foodborne illnesses held a media briefing to outline the government’s action plan to manage foodborne diseases. Justice Minister Thembi Simelane said the disaster management centre had classified foodborne illnesses as a national disaster under the National Disaster Act. Simelane said the classification encourages all organs of state, the private sector, and communities to improve their risk-avoidance practices by adhering to food safety legislation, standards and procedures. Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.The upcoming week promises to be relatively quiet on the earnings front, with no major companies scheduled to release their financial results. The stock market will be closed on January 1st in observance of the New Year. This pause offers a chance to reflect on the past year and prepare for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. After the S&P 500 hovered above 6,000 in mid-December, major banks, including Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs, have forecast that the benchmark index will reach 6,500 in 2025. The optimism is supported by confidence in ongoing earnings growth and a favorable monetary policy environment, key drivers of market performance. Read what the experts expect to see from the stock market in 2025. How high will the price of Bitcoin go in 2025? 2024 has been nothing short of monumental for the cryptocurrency industry. Bitcoin began the year hovering around $40,000, only to surge past $100,000 in December. Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be another transformative year. With President-elect Donald Trump coming into office after a pro-crypto campaign, a new era of policy and innovation may be on the horizon. Adding to the excitement in the crypto community is the influential role of Trump ally Elon Musk . Read what experts have to say about Bitcoin’s price in 2025. Key trends that will shape retail in 2025 The retail industry is undergoing a rapid transformation that’s being driven by evolving consumer expectations and new economic realities . As 2025 approaches, retailers will need to adapt to shifting dynamics . Change is on the horizon , whether it’s the slowing growth of discount stores, the rise of tech-powered dining, or the growing demand for convenience. Retailers that are willing to rethink their strategies may be the ones to thrive . Retail in 2025 will require striking a balance between tradition and innovation to capture the attention, loyalty, and wallets of the modern shopper . According to a new report from foot traffics analytics firm Placer.ai, there are some key trends that will shape retail’s 2025 playbook. You can read about those trends here. — Francisco Velasquez contributed to this article 📬 Sign up for the Daily Brief Our free, fast, and fun briefing on the global economy, delivered every weekday morning.Panthers bring losing streak into matchup with the Capitals

Flames visit the Senators after shootout winToday's Wordle is stirring up quite the buzz in the past few hours, with many trying to cross the barrier their own way. If you have still not been able to solve today's Wordle challenge for December 29, we have you covered, as we understand as Wordle fanatics, how frustrating that can be. ET Year-end Special Reads What kept India's stock market investors on toes in 2024? India's car race: How far EVs went in 2024 Investing in 2025: Six wealth management trends to watch out for Clues for Wordle today Today's Wordle game has a double letter and the Wordle hint for today is simply 'Music'. Now it is time to wrack your mind a little around this genre, and you will quite easily be able to solve it. If you want to solve it through your own crusade, we suggest you stop reading the article right here. If you still have no clue, here are some spoilers below! What is the Wordle answer for December 29? You can start off with 'PLANE', followed by 'TAROT', as they seem to be some obvious choices, but there are nearly 200 other possibilities and just one yellow box. Therefore, omission of a majority of choices is a must before you scroll your pen to find the Wordle answer today . 'MACHO' is another viable option for today's Wordle, but that does not relate to the world of music for that matter, and also leaves a slight loophole. Now, there remains just one more option, which is, 'MAMBO'! Artificial Intelligence(AI) Java Programming with ChatGPT: Learn using Generative AI By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Basics of Generative AI: Unveiling Tomorrows Innovations By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Generative AI for Dynamic Java Web Applications with ChatGPT By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Mastering C++ Fundamentals with Generative AI: A Hands-On By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) Master in Python Language Quickly Using the ChatGPT Open AI By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Performance Marketing for eCommerce Brands By - Zafer Mukeri, Founder- Inara Marketers View Program Office Productivity Zero to Hero in Microsoft Excel: Complete Excel guide 2024 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Finance A2Z Of Money By - elearnmarkets, Financial Education by StockEdge View Program Marketing Modern Marketing Masterclass by Seth Godin By - Seth Godin, Former dot com Business Executive and Best Selling Author View Program Astrology Vastu Shastra Course By - Sachenkumar Rai, Vastu Shashtri View Program Strategy Succession Planning Masterclass By - Nigel Penny, Global Strategy Advisor: NSP Strategy Facilitation Ltd. 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 How do you play Wordle? There is a NYT official Wordle website where you can play Wordle on a daily basis, and make due guesses on five-letter words. There are color-coded directions for your next guess. If the color code of your entered letter is green, it is in the right position and also the right letter. If the color code is yellow, it means that the letter is right but in the wrong position. And the third option is easily the worst, which is gray, meaning that you choice of letter is not in the word at all. FAQs: Are there any tips for solving Wordle puzzles? For getting proper Wordle answers, try focusing on unique letter combinations, and try selecting a powerful initial word. What is the a Wordle answer for December 29? The Wordle answer for December 29 is 'MAMBO', with the biggest hint being Music. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )

Humanoid Robot Market: USD 2.3B in 2023, Growing to USD 58.95B by 2031Aeries Technology, Inc ( NASDAQ:AERT – Get Free Report ) was the recipient of a large decline in short interest during the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totalling 69,200 shares, a decline of 16.4% from the November 30th total of 82,800 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 49,900 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.4 days. Approximately 0.7% of the shares of the stock are short sold. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A hedge fund recently bought a new stake in Aeries Technology stock. Aristeia Capital L.L.C. bought a new stake in Aeries Technology, Inc ( NASDAQ:AERT – Free Report ) in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm bought 177,250 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $335,000. Aristeia Capital L.L.C. owned 1.16% of Aeries Technology as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 99.15% of the company’s stock. Aeries Technology Price Performance Aeries Technology stock opened at $0.88 on Friday. The business’s fifty day moving average is $1.14 and its two-hundred day moving average is $1.77. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 9.01, a quick ratio of 0.75 and a current ratio of 0.75. The firm has a market cap of $39.02 million, a P/E ratio of 1.87 and a beta of -0.63. Aeries Technology has a 52 week low of $0.59 and a 52 week high of $3.12. About Aeries Technology ( Get Free Report ) Aeries Technology, Inc operates as a professional services and consulting partner in the North America, Asia Pacific, and internationally. The company offers management consultancy services for private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies, including software solutions, product management, IT infrastructure, information and cyber security, ERP and CRM platform management, business process management, and digital transformation services. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Aeries Technology Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Aeries Technology and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

Escaped Convicted Murderer Puts California Town on Edgemnl168.ph 。

President Bola Tinubu on Monday night canvased for a systemic solution that would address the socio economic elements causing corruption in the country, emphasising the need to First tackle the underlying causes of the menace. Speaking his maiden media chat on national television, President Tinubu emphasised the significance of enhancing living circumstances, guaranteeing access to basic utilities, and paying fair wages in order to reduce corruption in all of its manifestations. “Corruption in all ramifications is bad, but first of all, pay enough attention to the causes,” he said. The President noted that two major elements that encourage people to engage in dishonest activities are a lack of social amenities and insufficient money for education. In his fight to tame the menace of corruption, Tinubu emphasised the significance of guaranteeing workers living wage. “Pay them good and living wages. I increased the minimum wage, and to me, that is fighting corruption,” he explained. The President further stressed that creating an environment where citizens have access to basic necessities and opportunities will significantly reduce the temptation to engage in corrupt activities. He also reiterated his confidence in the power of free market forces to address economic challenges, emphasizing that price control is not the solution. He highlighted his administration’s approach to managing market dynamics, boosting agricultural productivity, and tackling corruption at its roots. “I don’t believe in price control. It’s a question of supply and demand,” Tinubu responded to a question of he believed in Prince control. He explained that increasing supply is key to stabilizing prices, citing the fuel market as an example. “We just continue to supply the market. It will come to a stage where you cannot hoard no more. The economic variables will work against you,” he said. Tinubu advised Nigerians to concentrate on improving their resource management skills while also adjusting to the prevailing shifting economic realities. The President also highlighted the significance of mechanised farming while announcing intentions to revolutionise Nigeria’s agricultural industry. “We will give more incentives to the farmer. Mechanized farming is better for us in Nigeria,” he said. He revealed that over 2,000 tractors are set to arrive in the country as part of efforts to modernize farming and increase productivity. This, according to President Tinubu, will help torr ensure food security as well as reduce the country’s dependence on imports.

BlockDAG Presale Hits $150M With $20M in Just 48 Hours: How It Compares to Ethereum ETFs & XRP’s MomentumNorthern Illinois gets tricky to beat Fresno St., win Potato Bowl in 2OTEmmanuel Macron has rejected calls to stand down and says he will name a new prime minister – the fourth of his seven years as president – in the coming days. If France was in his biggest political crisis in a generation, Macron wasn’t feeling it. In the wake of his government’s collapse, he says it’s still in the national interest that he sees out his five-year presidential mandate, which ends in 2027. A bar shows the telecast of French President Emmanuel Macron’s address to the nation. Credit: AP The collapse of France’s centre-right coalition government has thrust Macron back into the spotlight and a growing chorus is questioning whether the divisive and at times impetuous leader is suited to resolve the country’s political crisis. The turmoil comes amid a rough patch in the French economy , as various factors take a toll on growth, including the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, high interest rates and economic slowdowns in Germany and China, two of France’s trading partners. In a televised address, Macron said France could not constitutionally have new parliamentary elections for 10 months, following his decision to call a snap poll back in July. The result, he promised at the time, would offer the country some “clarification”. It led to the current chaos. Loading But for the first time, he conceded he was partly to blame for the situation the nation now faced. “Many have blamed me for it and I know, many continue to blame me. It’s a fact and it’s my responsibility,” he said. “The dissolution was not understood, that’s my responsibility, [but] I will never accept the irresponsibility of others.” He then went on to attack his political opponents on the “extreme right” and “extreme left”, accusing them of collaborating in an “anti-republican front”.

Georgetown ventures out of D.C. for first time to face West VirginiaGEORGETOWN — Jody Wingate likes to fix things. He's a handyman by trade, and when he finds kids who can't afford skateboarding equipment, he does his best to fix that situation, too. "We incorporate skateboarding as a way to focus their attention on good things and get them away from bad things," Wingate said. "We work with crisis kids. I do it during the week as much as I can, and I get to give kids who need skateboards that can’t afford it ... Our motto is ‘Do good things,’ and that’s what we do. ... I try and make kids happy and it’s the best thing in the world." Wingate is the Lowcountry ambassador for The Heart of Stoke Foundation , a nonprofit organization that helps underserved children through the provision of no-cost skateboarding equipment. Wingate recently donated skateboarding equipment to students at Maryville Elementary School in Georgetown, which is where he also attended elementary school. He also teaches skateboarding on Sunday mornings. Georgetown's paper mill closing hurt her friends. So she got presents for the entire 8th grade. South Carolina is one of five states that has a Heart of Stoke chapter. Wingate coaches at a skate park in Myrtle Beach, but he is trying to get one built in Georgetown. Vince Canfora is the founder and executive director of The Heart of Stoke Foundation. He started the organization about two years ago, and it took off from there. "Social media got ahold of what I was doing, and in six months, we were in five states because it just kind of exploded," Canfora said. "It took on a life of its own." The foundation then started to develop programs. The First Push Initiative is one that the foundation does in South Carolina. The group partnered with Sea Haven for Youth in Myrtle Beach and the program helps kids build self-esteem, establish a sense of pride and set goals. SC's third-largest school district just hired a superintendent. Here's why he was picked. In Fort Worth, Texas, the foundation has a program called Operation Ability, which holds quarterly skate park clinics for kids with special needs and disabilities. The Heart of Stoke Foundation is developing a third program called Operate Family Drop-In, which will help veterans rebuild bonds with their kids after deployments through skateboarding. Canfora said it’s rewarding to see the kids develop a sense of community with each other. "These are the kids that don’t gravitate towards traditional sports," Canfora said. "So if you’re a kid in middle school [or] high school and you play baseball, basketball, football from the time that you're 8 until you decide to stop, you’re put on these teams, and they say, 'Here’s your friends.' ... Well, kids that don’t gravitate towards those sports often have trouble developing that peer support group, and that’s where we come in." Canfora also likes how accessible skateboarding is, with kids possibly getting to get skate with professionals on any given day. "If you're a football player, you can't go play football with the Dallas Cowboys," Canfora said. "You might be able to attend a camp, but you’re not going to randomly show up at a skate park and have half of the team be there. Skateboarding is incredible." On Jan. 20 from 6:30-10 p.m., the foundation will have its second annual Heart of Stoke Caddy Day Topgolf Tournament at Topgolf Myrtle Beach . Tickets are $30 per player or $150 for a team of six, with all proceeds going to The Heart of Stoke Foundation programming. First place wins $1,000, second earns $500 and third gets $250. "People often ask, 'How do you know which kids to give to?'" Canfora said. "Well, we know because we were those kids. We grew up as those kids and we know that skateboarding got us through some of the darkest times of our lives." 5 things to know about Coastal Carolina's 1st appearance in the Myrtle Beach BowlKing Charles switched Christmas speech to hospital chapel after becoming ‘enchanted’ with venue

Rico Carty, who won the 1970 NL batting title when he hit a major league-best .366 for the Atlanta Braves, has died. He was 85. Major League Baseball , the players’ association and the Braves paid tribute to Carty on social media on Sunday. A family friend told Listín Diario — a newspaper in Carty’s native Dominican Republic — that he died Saturday night in an Atlanta hospital. “Carty was one of the first groundbreaking Latino stars in the major leagues, and he established himself as a hero to millions in his native Dominican Republic, his hometown of San Pedro de Macoris, and the city of Atlanta, where he was a beloved fan favorite,” the players' association said in its statement . The Braves said Carty left an indelible mark on the organization. “While his on-field accomplishments will never be forgotten, his unforgettable smile and generous nature will be sorely missed,” the team said in its statement. Carty made his big league debut with the Braves in September 1963. He batted .330 with 22 homers and 88 RBIs in his first full season in 1964, finishing second to Dick Allen in voting for NL Rookie of the Year. The Braves moved from Milwaukee to Atlanta after the 1965 season, and Carty got the franchise's first hit in its new home on April 12, 1966, against Pittsburgh. Carty had his best year in 1970, batting .366 with 25 homers and a career-best 101 RBIs. He started the All-Star Game after he was elected as a write-in candidate, joining Willie Mays and Hank Aaron in the NL outfield. Carty batted .299 with 204 homers and 890 RBIs over 15 years in the majors, also playing for Cleveland, Toronto, Oakland, Texas and the Chicago Cubs. He retired after the 1979 season. AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB

‘Really awful’: Kamala Harris’ election post-mortem video widely mocked

Rico Carty, who won the 1970 NL batting title when he hit a major league-best .366 for the Atlanta Braves, has died. He was 85. Major League Baseball , the players’ association and the Braves paid tribute to Carty on social media on Sunday. A family friend told Listín Diario — a newspaper in Carty’s native Dominican Republic — that he died Saturday night in an Atlanta hospital. “Carty was one of the first groundbreaking Latino stars in the major leagues, and he established himself as a hero to millions in his native Dominican Republic, his hometown of San Pedro de Macoris, and the city of Atlanta, where he was a beloved fan favorite,” the players' association said in its statement . The Braves said Carty left an indelible mark on the organization. “While his on-field accomplishments will never be forgotten, his unforgettable smile and generous nature will be sorely missed,” the team said in its statement. Carty made his big league debut with the Braves in September 1963. He batted .330 with 22 homers and 88 RBIs in his first full season in 1964, finishing second to Dick Allen in voting for NL Rookie of the Year. The Braves moved from Milwaukee to Atlanta after the 1965 season, and Carty got the franchise's first hit in its new home on April 12, 1966, against Pittsburgh. Carty had his best year in 1970, batting .366 with 25 homers and a career-best 101 RBIs. He started the All-Star Game after he was elected as a write-in candidate, joining Willie Mays and Hank Aaron in the NL outfield. Carty batted .299 with 204 homers and 890 RBIs over 15 years in the majors, also playing for Cleveland, Toronto, Oakland, Texas and the Chicago Cubs. He retired after the 1979 season. AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLBWASHINGTON, Nov 21 (Reuters) - U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen has introduced legislation seeking to halt American weapons sales to the United Arab Emirates until the United States certifies that the UAE is not arming the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan, according to an early version of his announcement seen by Reuters. Van Hollen has filed a joint resolution of disapproval in the Senate, while fellow Democrat Sara Jacobs has filed one in the House of Representatives. Their effort is unlikely to win significant support in Congress as U.S. administrations under presidents of both parties long have viewed the UAE as a vital regional security partner, but would draw attention to a conflict that has become one of the world's worst humanitarian disasters. "The UAE is an important partner in the Middle East, but the United States cannot sit idly by as it aids and abets the humanitarian disaster in Sudan - we must use our leverage to try to bring this conflict to a peaceful resolution," Van Hollen said in a statement. U.S. law requires congressional review of major arms deals, and lets members of the Senate force votes on resolutions of disapproval that would block such sales. Although the law does not let House members force such votes, resolutions must pass both chambers of Congress, and potentially survive a presidential veto, to go into effect. No resolution of disapproval has ever both passed Congress and survived a presidential veto. Such resolutions have at times led to heated debates that highlighted human rights concerns and lawmakers' dissatisfaction over weapons sales. The UAE has long been a major purchaser of U.S. weapons. In October, the Biden administration announced, for example, that it had approved a potential sale of GMLRS and ATACMS munitions, and related support, for $1.2 billion. GMLRS, or Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System rockets, are made by L3Harris Technologies' (LHX.N) , opens new tab business unit Aerojet Rocketdyne. The long-range ATACMS are made by Lockheed Martin. (LMT.N) , opens new tab The newly introduced resolutions seek to stop that sale. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, this year recognized the UAE as a major defense partner, and the Gulf state is host to the Al Dhafra Air Base with U.S. military aircraft and thousands of American personnel. Sudan's army has accused the UAE of providing weapons and support to the RSF in Sudan's 17-month-old war. The Gulf state denies the allegations. U.N. sanctions monitors have described as credible accusations that the UAE had provided military support to the RSF. The UAE has denied involvement in military support to any of Sudan's rival parties. War erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the RSF over a transition to free elections, with tens of thousands of people reported dead. The United Nations has said nearly 25 million people - half of Sudan's population - need aid, famine is looming and some 8 million people have fled their homes. "The UAE is one of the biggest outside actors fueling the violence in Sudan, and yet the U.S. is on the brink of selling the UAE another $1.2 billion in weapons that could end up in the hands of the RSF," Jacobs, who met with Sudanese refugees on the border with Chad this year, said in a statement. Sign up here. Reporting by Patricia ZengerleEditing by Don Durfee and Will Dunham Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab Thomson Reuters Patricia Zengerle has reported from more than 20 countries, including Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and China. An award-winning Washington-based national security and foreign policy reporter who also has worked as an editor, Patricia has appeared on NPR, C-Span and other programs, spoken at the National Press Club and attended the Hoover Institution Media Roundtable. She is a recipient of the Edwin M. Hood Award for Diplomatic Correspondence.Mumbai: In a significant operation, the West Cyber Cell of Mumbai Crime Branch successfully prevented a South Mumbai-based businessman from losing ₹85 lakh to cyber fraudsters. The scam, which came to light on November 26, involved the creation of a fake WhatsApp profile using the businessman's name and photo. Cybercriminals created a WhatsApp account impersonating the businessman and used it to message one of his employees works as accountant, requesting ₹85 lakh for a "major business deal." When the Accountant called the number to confirm, the fraudsters cut the call, claiming they were in a meeting and urging immediate transfer of the amount. Believing it was his employer, the employee transferred ₹85 lakh. However, suspicion arose when the employee could no longer reach the number. On informing the company’s senior officials, it was confirmed that the businessman had not authorized any transfer. After realizing the fraud, the businessman immediately contacted the cybercrime helpline at 1930. The helpline team acted swiftly, notifying the bank and freezing the transaction before the funds could be moved to the fraudsters' account. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Datta Nalawade commended the team for their prompt action, which prevented the ₹85 lakh from reaching the cybercriminals. An FIR has been registered, and investigations are underway to identify the culprits behind the fake WhatsApp profile. According to Cyber Cell statistics, similar operations in the past 24 hours have saved ₹1.31 crore from cyber fraudsters. For the year 2024, Mumbai Cyber Cell has successfully prevented ₹136 crore from falling into the hands of cybercriminals as of November 26. The case highlights the importance of quick reporting and the effectiveness of the 1930 cyber helpline in tackling financial frauds. Investigations into the incident continue.

A film set location, a big budget production, an audience bussed in - the prime minister's Plan for Change speech had all the hallmarks of big campaign moments past when Sir Keir Starmer used the event to launch his "first steps' set of promises - from cutting NHS waiting lists and setting up a new border command to tackle small boats - and his election-winning manifesto. Five months into government, on Thursday, he gathered his cabinet and crowd in Pinewood Studios to launch this six milestones for government . But if it was meant to be a box office moment, it all felt a bit flat. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player What's in a Labour government? Over the past 18 months, we've had three foundations, five missions, six first steps and now, on Thursday, six milestones, with a 42-page plan. Speak to the prime minister at the edges of these events, and he can make a compelling case for his missions and the clarity he has for government. But somehow it is getting lost in translation as the missions become the first steps, become milestones with three foundations to boot. More on Labour Missions, first steps and milestones: How Sir Keir Starmer's priorities have changed since last year Sir Keir Starmer's milestones: What are they, what's missing and how easy are they to achieve? Labour blind spot for scandal on show as Tories exploit murky Haigh affair Related Topics: Labour Sir Keir Starmer It can be hard to find a narrative in what this government is trying to do. Read more: PM vows to take on 'alliance of naysayers' Driving test bosses 'bullying examiners to be lenient' Thursday was an attempt to change that with six measurable milestones now set up so you, Whitehall and the cabinet, are all crystal clear about where they are heading. Some of them are a departure from manifesto pledges, others are not. Some of them are genuinely ambitious, others less so. The manifesto promise to have the fastest growing economy in the G7 is now an "aim" while the new milestone is to "raise living standards in every part of the United Kingdom, so working people have more money in their pockets" is a new target. The idea is to make the pledge more "human" but the PM wouldn't say how much he wanted to raise living standards - and household disposable income is already set to rise by the end of this parliament. Then on opportunity for all, in the run-up to the election the government promised to recruit 6,500 more teachers to improve teaching in state secondaries. Now the milestone they are asking to be measured on is a promise that 75% of five-year-olds are ready to learn in England when they start school against 67% today. There is a new milestone to fast-track planning decisions on at least 150 major economic infrastructure projects. There is a milestone to put a named bobby back on the beat in every neighbourhood, while the pledge to halve violence against women and girls has not been marked up as a milestone. 'Hold the government's feet to the fire' Why are they doing it now and to what end? At its heart this is an attempt to give voters clear targets on which they can, to quote Starmer himself, "hold the government's feet to the fire". But it felt a bit like a rag bag of measures in which some past promises were pushed aside and others pumped up. The 1.5 million housing target, the pledge to return to the NHS standard of 92% of patients being seen for elective treatment in 18 weeks, the commitment to green power by 2030 are all ambitious. But things that are perhaps too risky or hard to meet have been dropped. The migration question One of the biggest omissions in the milestones was migration. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player This surprised me, not least because the prime minister had said clearly that the economy and borders were his two main priorities in government and a clear concern for voters. But instead of making it one of his milestone measures, for which the public can hold him accountable, the PM said securing borders was one of the "foundations" of his government. There is no metric on which to measure him beyond net migration coming down from record levels of 800,000 plus in the past couple of years. Perhaps he could have been more ambitious in setting a target to hit in terms of cutting legal migration or small boat crossings. Perhaps he could have committed to a deportation figure - something that Harriet Harman suggested he might have done on our episode of Electoral Dysfunction this week. But I suspect, in the end, Number 10 decided it was too risky to try to set targets. 'The tepid bath of managed decline' But with a disaffected electorate, high levels of scepticism, and a Reform party playing into that anti-politics sentiment, Starmer knows he must galvanise his government to try to deliver tangibles before the next election, and this speech will perhaps be looked back on as one aimed as much at Whitehall as it was you, the voter. He explicitly challenged the British state to deliver in this speech saying his Plan for Change was "the most ambitious plan for government in a generation" and would require a "change to the nature of governing itself" as he called on the state to become more dynamic, decisive, innovate, embracing of technology and artificial intelligence. "Make no mistake, this plan will land on desks across Whitehall with the heavy thud of a gauntlet being thrown down, a demand given the urgency of our times," he told his audience as he fired a warning shot to Whitehall. "I do think there are too many people in Whitehall who are comfortable in the tepid bath of managed decline. Had forgotten, to paraphrase JFK, that you choose change not because it's easy, but because it's hard." 👉 Click here to listen to Electoral Dysfunction on your podcast app 👈 Starmer and his team know that without galvanising Whitehall and setting clear navigation through this mission and now measurable milestones, delivery will be hard. The plan is for stock takes on the missions and milestones in order to hold mandarins accountable. On the back of Starmer's milestones speech will come another from cabinet minister Pat McFadden on civil service reform. At the election, Starmer ran on a platform of promising change. Follow our channel and never miss an update Five months later, eyeing a sharp fall in opinion poll ratings, he is offering a concrete plan for change. For now voters seemed tuned out, with the pledges and targets being thrown at them failing to stick. I don't think Starmer or his team expect those polls to turn around any time soon. But they are adamant that if they can fulfil promises to build more homes and better infrastructure, cut NHS waiting lists, lift living standards, and give people a sense of greater security on their streets, they can turn the tide on the tsunami of cynicism they face. Be the first to get Breaking News Install the Sky News app for free Starmer might not be the best storyteller, but in the end he'll likely be judged not on the flourish or rhetoric, but on whether he can actually deliver.

Avior Wealth Management LLC lessened its stake in shares of ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF ( BATS:NOBL – Free Report ) by 6.3% in the 3rd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The institutional investor owned 1,796 shares of the company’s stock after selling 120 shares during the quarter. Avior Wealth Management LLC’s holdings in ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF were worth $192,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of NOBL. Daiwa Securities Group Inc. purchased a new stake in ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF in the second quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Wolff Wiese Magana LLC boosted its stake in ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF by 147.0% during the 3rd quarter. Wolff Wiese Magana LLC now owns 247 shares of the company’s stock worth $26,000 after purchasing an additional 147 shares during the period. American National Bank purchased a new position in ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF during the 2nd quarter worth $27,000. GAMMA Investing LLC acquired a new position in ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at about $44,000. Finally, Russell Investments Group Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF by 98.8% in the first quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 515 shares of the company’s stock valued at $52,000 after purchasing an additional 256 shares during the period. ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF Stock Performance Shares of ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF stock opened at $106.96 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $12.99 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.81 and a beta of 0.68. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $105.84 and a two-hundred day moving average of $101.71. ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF has a one year low of $55.69 and a one year high of $67.97. ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF Company Profile The ProShares S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats ETF (NOBL) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats index. The fund tracks an equal-weighted index of S&P 500 constituents that have increased dividend payments annually for at least 25 years. NOBL was launched on Oct 9, 2013 and is managed by ProShares. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NOBL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF ( BATS:NOBL – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for ProShares S&P 500 Aristocrats ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

Pro Picks: Eagles will beat Steelers in a close one and Bills will upset the LionsPokémon as a franchise has been around for more than 25 years, and in that time we've seen hundreds of characters introduced across the games, anime, manga, movies, and even the trading card game. While there are plenty of no-name carbon copy trainers and NPCs scattered throughout Pokémon, the characters that are part of the story tend to be wildly varied, with no two major characters being all that alike. You've got the eclectic cowboy gym leader Clay from the Unova region, the flamboyant gym leader-turned-champion Wallace, the Twitch streamer gym leader Iono, and so many more. What's largely lacking among these major characters, though, is LGBT+ representation. In recent years, The Pokémon Company has made some efforts to be a little more LGBT-friendly – the decision to let either gender player character in Scarlet and Violet wear any clothes, accessories, and hairstyles is a welcome move – but actual canon LGBT+ characters are few and far between. It might surprise you to learn, though, that there are actually a few canon LGBT+ Pokémon characters, and a few more that are heavily implied but not outright confirmed — yet, at least. Some characters are better than others, but the franchise has actually had LGBT+ characters for almost as long as it's been around. Pokémon's first foray into LGBT+ representation was all the way back in 1999, with the release of a manga called How I Became a Pokémon Card. This series featured largely standalone stories with each chapter, each designed to expand upon the artwork of a specific Pokémon card. The 38th and final chapter of How I Became a Pokémon Card introduced a character called Akari, a trans boy who longed to be a cool trainer. He begged his mom to get him a cool Pokémon to have as his first partner – his friend Akira bagged himself a Scyther – but his mom thought that a cute Pokémon like Pikachu was a better choice. Akari is actually handled surprisingly well, given it's Pokémon in Japan in the 90s — not typically a great combination for LGBT+ representation. There are small hints at the struggles he faces as a trans boy, along with some much more overt issues, like being forced to wear a skirt in middle school. Akari wasn't featured in anything else beyond that one chapter of a Japan-exclusive manga, and that's a bit of a bummer, given it's handled as well as it is. The next canon LGBT+ character wouldn't come for another decade and change, and if you weren't paying attention, you might have missed them altogether. There's a random Beauty Nova in Pokémon X and Y who has the following line when defeated: "A mere half year ago I was a Black Belt! Quite the transformation, wouldn't you say?" On its face, this probably doesn't seem particularly indicative of LGBT+ representation, but reading between the lines makes things much more interesting. The Black Belt class in Pokémon X and Y – and most other games in which they appear – is exclusively masculine-presenting. There are no Black Belt trainers that are women, and likewise, there are no Beauty Nova trainers that are men. The logical conclusion, then, is that this character once presented as a man – a Black Belt – and now presents as a woman. If that's not enough to convince you, though, we should look at the Japanese text for the same character. Here it is, as translated by Legends of Localization : "I was a Karate King just half a year ago; the power of medical science is awesome, wouldn't you say?!" The explicit mention of medical science makes clear that this isn't just a change in careers, it's a change in gender identity as a whole. It's a small detail for a minor character, and one that was made more ambiguous in the localization process, but it's definitely there, and it's definitely real. The most recent canon LGBT+ representation in Pokémon comes from a bit of an unlikely source: Pokémon Go. And it's not in the form of some random NPC either — the Team Mystic team leader Blanche, who roughly a third of players interact with every day in the game, is explicitly non-binary. There's a swathe of evidence for this, too. No piece of official English media has ever used gendered pronouns for the character — every single one either refers to Blanche directly by name, or uses they/them pronouns. Languages that are inherently gendered, like Spanish and French, use feminine prose when referring to Blanche, but it's worth noting that in many of those languages, it's common for non-binary people to use feminine-gendered language as the default, in lieu of other options. Japanese is not a particularly gendered language at all, so Blanche's (along with every other character's) pronouns are largely not used there, but German is a gendered language, and the German version of Pokémon Go, as well as social media accounts, have made concerted efforts to use non-gendered language when referring to them, after initially using feminine language. Blanche actually shares this trait with Rhi, a member of the GO Ultra Recon Squad, who typically resides in Ultra Space. Rhi is referred to explicitly with they/them pronouns in English, though in an opposite situation to Blanche, they're typically referred to using masculine pronouns in heavily gendered languages. These three – or four, if you count Rhi – characters are, so far, the only canon LGBT+ characters confirmed so far, but that doesn't mean they're the only ones in the franchise. There have been hints here and there in Pokémon Masters, for example, that Steven and Wallace might be in some kind of romantic relationship. A Valentine's Day update added new dialogue where they express affection for each other, and Barry stops short of saying the two are romantically involved, but it's certainly implied, nonetheless. The franchise's latest anime series, Pokémon Horizons, similarly hints at the potential for queer romance. Many fans have interpreted Murdock – the Brave Olivine's chef – and his history with another man named Mitchell as potentially romantic. Similarly, in a more recent episode, ship mechanic Orla said some very interesting things towards Poké Ball craftswoman Karnathat certainly seemed to have some level of romance behind them. None of these are outright confirmed, of course, but the sexualities and gender expressions of most characters in most media rarely is. More explicit LGBT+ representation in Pokémon would be a massive win for the franchise, and I'd absolutely love to see gay and lesbian couples represented in some way, in much the same way that straight relationships are shown. Whether or not that will happen anytime soon is anyone's guess, but as time marches on, so too does social progress, and it's really only a matter of time before we see real representation front and center.Mercurity Fintech Announces Unaudited Financial Results for First Half 2024

City of Hamilton wins encampment court case as judge rules it's allowed to enforce tent ban in parksBOSTON (AP) — Jaylen Brown scored the Celtics’ first 15 points on five consecutive 3-pointers and finished with 29 points, before Boston withstood a late charge to beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 107-105 on Sunday. Jayson Tatum added 26 points and eight rebounds to help Boston post a season-high fifth straight victory. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.A search for a convicted murderer in a California town has put residents on edge, with schools closing and Christmas events being postponed Cesar Hernandez, who was sentenced in 2019 to 80 years to life with the possibility of parole for first-degree murder, escaped Monday morning shortly after arriving at the Kern County courthouse in Delano, a city of around 50,000 in central California. As of Thursday, he had still not been found. He was being transported to appear in court after pleading no contest to manufacturing a weapon and possessing alcohol or drugs in prison when he evaded staff and jumped out of the van, officials said. Cesar Guzmán, 32, was only blocks away at his barber shop from the intersection where Hernandez escaped. It’s been the “number one topic at the shop” since. “Everyday we talk about it,” Guzmán said. “The clients are, they’re scared because they haven’t found him. We’re really close to where it happened.” Delano has been inundated with a heavy law enforcement presence since Hernandez’s escape, with police knocking on doors and helicopters whirring overhead. Guzmán said it’s the first time something like this has happened in the town, where he has lived his whole life. Several local schools locked down Monday, and they remained closed through Thursday as the search continued, local school districts posted on Facebook . The city postponed its tree-lighting ceremony originally scheduled for Wednesday, and the Delano Chamber of Commerce delayed its annual Christmas parade scheduled for Thursday night. Hernandez remaining at large puts a damper on the festivities, which Guzmán and his family have attended every year. “Honestly, now we’re kind of like, ‘How can he get away from them? What the heck happened?’" Guzmán said. Hernandez, 34, was last seen wearing an orange top and pants. He is 5 feet, 5 inches tall, weighs about 160 pounds, and has brown eyes and black hair. He was transferred from Los Angeles County in June 2019. “Hernandez is considered dangerous,” Delano police said in a social media post. “If you see him, do not approach.” Anyone who sees Hernandez or has knowledge of his location is asked to contact law enforcement or call 911. On the other side of the country, another search was underway for the man who gunned down United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York on Monday. Police were following tips related to his whereabouts, including searching two hostels where the man may have stayed.

Maverick McNealy birdies the last hole at Sea Island to finally become PGA Tour winnerTrump selects longtime adviser Keith Kellogg as special envoy for Ukraine and RussiaEmmanuel Macron has rejected calls to stand down and says he will name a new prime minister – the fourth of his seven years as president – in the coming days. If France was in his biggest political crisis in a generation, Macron wasn’t feeling it. In the wake of his government’s collapse, he says it’s still in the national interest that he sees out his five-year presidential mandate, which ends in 2027. A bar shows the telecast of French President Emmanuel Macron’s address to the nation. Credit: AP The collapse of France’s centre-right coalition government has thrust Macron back into the spotlight and a growing chorus is questioning whether the divisive and at times impetuous leader is suited to resolve the country’s political crisis. The turmoil comes amid a rough patch in the French economy , as various factors take a toll on growth, including the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, high interest rates and economic slowdowns in Germany and China, two of France’s trading partners. In a televised address, Macron said France could not constitutionally have new parliamentary elections for 10 months, following his decision to call a snap poll back in July. The result, he promised at the time, would offer the country some “clarification”. It led to the current chaos. But for the first time, he conceded he was partly to blame for the situation the nation now faced. “Many have blamed me for it and I know, many continue to blame me. It’s a fact and it’s my responsibility,” he said. “The dissolution was not understood, that’s my responsibility, [but] I will never accept the irresponsibility of others.” He then went on to attack his political opponents on the “extreme right” and “extreme left”, accusing them of collaborating in an “anti-republican front”. “Some political groups have chosen chaos,” he said, referring to the no-confidence vote which led to Michel Barnier standing down just three months after he was appointed by Macron. “They don’t want to build, they want to dismantle.” Barnier’s government the shortest-tenured in modern French history, following the first successful no-confidence vote in France in more than 60 years. Sparking his downfall was his proposed financing bill, which included €60 billion ($98.4 billion) worth of tax hikes and spending cuts aimed at bringing the country’s budget deficit down to 5 per cent next year. Michel Barnier has resigned as France’s prime minister following a no-confidence vote. Credit: Bloomberg Macron must now appoint a new prime minister and task them with either passing a law that extends this year’s budget into the early months of 2025 or pushing a complete budget through parliament by the end of the year to avoid a government shutdown. Macron said the next prime minister would be charged with forming a “government of general interest” with a priority of passing a budget. Addressing voters directly, he said some of his political opponents were not thinking “about you, the voters”, suggesting that their interest was in the next presidential election. “Let’s be honest, they think about one thing: the presidential election,” Macron said of the party of his long-term, hard-right National Rally rival Marine Le Pen. He said the rival party’s “cynical” approach had brought “a sense of chaos” to the country. After Macron’s address, Le Pen wrote a “Gentle reminder to President Macron” in a post on X that no-confidence votes are “not anti-Republican, but provided for in our constitution”. National Rally leader Marine Le Pen says Macron will continue to feel the pressure. Credit: AP Le Pen, whose party holds the most seats in the French parliament, stopped short of calling for Macron’s resignation but warned that “the pressure on the president of the republic will get stronger and stronger”. The one thing to never forget is that Macron is hated in France with a vicious passion . The people of France see him as arrogant, elitist and unrelatable. Alain Minc, a political essayist and long-term informal adviser to French presidents, said on Thursday: “Macron is a victim of his own narcissism ... He was in denial of reality.” Barnier will stay on in a caretaker role for now, but Macron is under pressure to quickly name a new prime minister who might offer the country some stability. Candidates include Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu, Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau and centrist former presidential candidate François Bayrou. Whoever is chosen, few believe a new government will manage to navigate the minefield of a bitterly divided parliament. France could be back in this position again soon enough. Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on what’s making headlines around the world. Sign up for the weekly What in the World newsletter here .

By LOLITA BALDOR and FATIMA HUSSEIN WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump said Wednesday that he has chosen Keith Kellogg, a highly decorated retired three-star general, to serve as his special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, who is one of the architects of a staunchly conservative policy book that lays out an “America First” national security agenda for the incoming administration, will come into the role as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine enters its third year in February. Trump made the announcement on his Truth Social account, and said “He was with me right from the beginning! Together, we will secure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH, and Make America, and the World, SAFE AGAIN!” Kellogg, an 80 year-old retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues, served as national security adviser to Vice President Mike Pence , was chief of staff of the National Security Council and then stepped in as an acting security adviser for Trump after Michael Flynn resigned. As special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Kellogg will have to navigate an increasingly untenable war between the two nations. The Biden administration has begun urging Ukraine to quickly increase the size of its military by drafting more troops and revamping its mobilization laws to allow for the conscription of troops as young as 18. The White House has pushed more than $56 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the start of Russia’s February 2022 invasion and expects to send billions more to Kyiv before Biden leaves office in less than months. Trump has criticized the billions that the Biden administration has poured into Ukraine. Washington has recently stepped up weapons shipments and has forgiven billions in loans provided to Kyiv. The incoming Republican president has said he could end the war in 24 hours, comments that appear to suggest he would press Ukraine to surrender territory that Russia now occupies. As a co-chairman of the American First Policy Institute’s Center for American Security, Kellogg wrote several of the chapters in the group’s policy book. The book, like the Heritage Foundation’s “Project 2025,” is a move to lay out a Trump national security agenda and avoid the mistakes of 2016 when he entered the White House largely unprepared. Kellogg in April wrote that “bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties.” Trump’s proposed national security advisor U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz (R-Fla.) tweeted Wednesday that “Keith has dedicated his life to defending our great country and is committed to bringing the war in Ukraine to a peaceful resolution.” Kellogg was a character in multiple Trump investigations dating to his first term. He was among the administration officials who listened in on the July 2019 call between Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy in which Trump prodded his Ukrainian counterpart to pursue investigations into the Bidens. The call, which Kellogg would later say did not raise any concerns on his end, was at the center of the first of two House impeachment cases against Trump, who was acquitted by the Senate both times. On Jan. 6, 2021, hours before pro-Trump rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol, Kellogg, who was then Pence’s national security adviser, listened in on a heated call in which Trump told his vice president to object or delay the certification in Congress of President Joe Biden ’s victory. He later told House investigators that he recalled Trump saying to Pence words to the effect of: “You’re not tough enough to make the call.” Baldor reported from Washington. AP writer Eric Tucker in Washington contributed to this report.Who Owns the World’s Biggest Gold Mines?

Key Tronic Corporation Announces New Credit FacilitiesBy LOLITA C. BALDOR and FATIMA HUSSEIN WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump said Wednesday that he has chosen Keith Kellogg, a highly decorated retired three-star general, to serve as his special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, who is one of the architects of a staunchly conservative policy book that lays out an “America First” national security agenda for the incoming administration, will come into the role as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine enters its third year in February. Trump, making the announcement on his Truth Social account, said, “He was with me right from the beginning! Together, we will secure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH, and Make America, and the World, SAFE AGAIN!” Kellogg, an 80-year-old retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues, served as national security adviser to Vice President Mike Pence , was chief of staff of the National Security Council and then stepped in as an acting security adviser for Trump after Michael Flynn resigned. As special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Kellogg will have to navigate an increasingly untenable war between the two nations. The Biden administration has begun urging Ukraine to quickly increase the size of its military by drafting more troops and revamping its mobilization laws to allow for the conscription of those as young as 18. The White House has pushed more than $56 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the start of Russia’s February 2022 invasion and expects to send billions more before Biden leaves office in less than two months. The U.S. has recently stepped up weapons shipments and has forgiven billions in loans provided to Kyiv. Trump has criticized the billions the Biden administration has spent in supporting Ukraine and has said he could end the war in 24 hours, comments that appear to suggest he would press Ukraine to surrender territory that Russia now occupies. As a co-chairman of the American First Policy Institute’s Center for American Security, Kellogg wrote several of the chapters in the group’s policy book. The book, like the Heritage Foundation’s “Project 2025,” is designed to lay out a Trump national security agenda and avoid the mistakes of 2016 when he entered the White House largely unprepared. Kellogg in April wrote that “bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties.” Related Articles Trump’s proposed national security adviser , U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz of Florida, tweeted Wednesday that “Keith has dedicated his life to defending our great country and is committed to bringing the war in Ukraine to a peaceful resolution.” Kellogg featured in multiple Trump investigations dating to his first term. He was among the administration officials who listened in on the July 2019 call between Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy in which Trump prodded his Ukrainian counterpart to pursue investigations into the Bidens. The call, which Kellogg would later say did not raise any concerns on his end, was at the center of the first of two House impeachment cases against Trump, who was acquitted by the Senate both times. On Jan. 6, 2021, hours before pro-Trump rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol, Kellogg, who was then Pence’s national security adviser, listened in on a heated call in which Trump told his vice president to object or delay the certification in Congress of President Joe Biden ’s victory. He later told House investigators that he recalled Trump saying to Pence words to the effect of: “You’re not tough enough to make the call.” Baldor reported from Washington. AP writer Eric Tucker in Washington contributed to this report.

None