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The defending champions NZFFI Auckland All Stars showcased their dominance once again, defeating Flick Lautoka FC 2-0 in the first semi-final of the Flick Hygiene Pacific Community Cup at Churchill Park, Lautoka. Right from the kickoff, the Auckland side showed their strength, controlling possession and maintaining relentless pressure on Lautoka. James Hoyt broke the deadlock with a clinical finish in the 43rd minute, silencing the home crowd and putting his side in control. The hosts, despite showing glimpses of brilliance, struggled to keep up with the pace and precision of the defending champions. Lautoka created a few promising opportunities, but their finishing lacked the sharpness needed to trouble the Auckland defense. The second half saw Lautoka attempting to regroup, but the Auckland All Stars continued their aggressive play. Their persistence paid off in the 53rd minute when Mohammad Nabeel found the back of the net, extending their lead to 2-0. The defending champions now await the winner of the second semi-final between the USA All Stars and NZFFI Manukau All Stars to see who they will face in the title clash.Sira Thienou scores 16 points, No. 18 Ole Miss women coast to 89-24 win over Alabama State

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Kemi Badenoch has long proved herself to be a gaffe-prone politician - and that trend has not ended since she was elected Tory leader. In the the race to replace Rishi Sunak , the former Business Secretary found herself at the mercy of headline after headline amid interview car crashes and bizarre moments. At the Tory conference in September, she caused a huge row after claiming maternity pay was "overburdening businesses". Elsewhere during the conference she said between 5% and 10% of civil servants are "should-be-in-prison bad" . This would mean between 25,000 and 50,000 were put behind bars. During the same month she was mocked after claiming she became working class when she got a job in McDonalds. Since becoming the leader of the Conservative Party on November 2, Ms Badenoch has had a rocky road. Her performances at the weekly Prime Minister's Questions clash with Keir Starmer have been branded underwhelming - and the latest YouGov polling shows more than half of Brits think she does not look like a Prime Minister in waiting. Here The Mirror takes a look at some of her top gaffes and weird moments since becoming Tory leader. 1. Partygate was 'overblown' A day after becoming Tory leader, Ms Badenoch thought it would be a good idea to declare Boris Johnson a "great" Prime Minister and that the Partygate scandal was "overblown". In her first major interview since winning the contest to replace Mr Sunak , Ms Badenoch suggested the problem instead was with the Covid fines. During his time in No10, Mr Johnson became the first sitting PM to be sanctioned by police after he was found to have breached his own Covid rules. Despite being among dozens who resigned from his government in July 2022, Ms Badenoch told the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg: "I thought he was a great Prime Minister. "But there were some serious issues which were not being resolved and I think that during that tenure the public thought that we were not speaking for them or looking out for them, we were in it for ourselves." She went on: "Some of those things I think were perception issues, a lot of the stuff that happened around partygate was not why I resigned. I thought that it was overblown. We should not have created fixed penalty notices, for example. That was us not going with our principles." She added that the public was "not wrong to be upset about partygate", but said : "The problem was that we should not have criminalised everyday activities the way that we did." At the time, chair of the Labour Party Ellie Reeves said: “Listening to Kemi Badenoch dismiss Partygate as 'overblown' will add insult to injury for families across Britain who followed the rules, missing loved one’s deaths and family funerals, whilst her colleagues partied in Downing Street." 2. Misleading attack at PMQs At the start of November Kemi Badenoch used her first PMQs session to launch a misleading attack on the Government over defence spending. The new Tory leader told MPs there was nothing in the October Budget on defence spending. In fact Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced an additional £2.9billion for the Ministry of Defence and said the Government would "set a path" to spending 2.5% of GDP on defending the country. Ms Badenoch told the PM: "His Chancellor's Budget did not even mention defence. The Chancellor's budget last week was a copy and paste of Bidenomics. It turns out that a high spending, high borrowing, high inflation approach is less popular than she may have thought." The PM shot back: "The one thing I learned as leader of the opposition it is a good idea to listen to what the Government is actually saying. I think she said defence wasn't mentioned in the Budget. It was seven days ago and it is absolutely clear and central to the Budget." He said that the Government is committed to bringing defence spending to 2.5% - and pointed out that the last time this was achieved was under the last Labour government. 3. Sandwich In December Kemi Badenoch triggered a bizarre row after launching an attack on sandwiches - and dismissing them as not "real food". It caused Keir Starmer to issue a defence of sandwiches as a "great British institution" . In a magazine interview, she said "lunch is for wimps" before ranting: "I don't think sandwiches are a real food, it's what you have for breakfast." Describing her daily routine, Ms Badenoch said: "What's a lunch break? Lunch is for wimps. I have food brought in and I work and eat at the same time." She added that she "will not touch bread if it’s moist”. And in another weird turn, she revealed that she sometimes has a steak brought to her as she works. No10 was having none of it. The PM's official spokesman said at the time: "I think he was surprised to hear that the leader of the Opposition has a steak brought in for lunch. The Prime Minister is quite happy with a sandwich lunch." He added that the PM "enjoys a tuna sandwich and occasionally a cheese toastie". Ms Badenoch's rant was a far cry from her predecessor's equally odd moment, in which Mr Sunak claimed his favourite meal is "sandwiches" in a cringe-worthy appearance on ITV's This Morning in July. 4. Criticism of PM backfires In another wobbly PMQs moment in November, Ms Badenoch appeared to read from her pre-prepared lines as she attacked the government's "cruel family farms tax" over a changes in October's Budget. But it landed her in trouble when moments after she attempted to attack Mr Starmer on his "scripted lines". It caused a severe mocking from the PM , who drew loud laughter from the Labour benches. He responded sharply: "I'm happy to help the leader of the opposition. If she's going to complain about scripted answers, it's probably best not to read that from a script. "I'm glad she's raised farmers. Because the budget last week put £5billion over the next two years into farming. That's the single biggest increase, unlike the £300million which was underspent under the last government. But when it comes to inheritance, the vast vast majority of farmers will be unaffected, as she well knows; as they well know." 5. Flat-rate tax is an attractive idea In December Ms Badenoch came under fire after suggesting millionaires should pay the same rate of tax as the poor. The Tory leader faced comparisons to Liz Truss after saying a flat tax rate is a "very attractive" idea. She made the comments at a theatre that was ironically showing a pantomime of Robin Hood - the heroic character known for helping the poor. Ms Badenoch said the country couldn't afford to introduce a flat rate of tax at the moment and that the cost of welfare, such as benefits, in the country needs to be "turned around" to do so. The comments triggered comparisons to disastrous ex-PM Ms Truss , who tried to push for tax cuts for the rich but crashed the economy with her unfunded promises. At the time in 2022, Ms Truss admitted her plans would disproportionately benefit wealthy people. Currently British people pay different levels of tax depending on their tax band - which is determined by how much they earn. Critics have warned that introducing a flat rate in the UK would mean low paid earners would face a tax rise, while high earners would face a tax rise. Labour analysis showed that Ms Badenoch's idea could see low earners facing a £1,200 tax hike , while the highest earners would get a tax cut of more than £5,000. A Labour spokesman hit back: “ Kemi Badenoch needs to come clean about how much she would hike taxes on working people to pay for tax cuts for the super-rich. While Labour protects working people with no tax rises on their payslips, the Tories are bringing out the ghost of Christmas past with these Truss-style tax cuts for millionaires. They haven’t listened and they haven’t learnt.” 6. Row with Nigeria A row erupted earlier in December between Kemi Badenoch and the Nigerian Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who hit out at the Tory leader for having talked down Nigeria. Ms Badenoch, who was born in the UK but mostly raised in the West African country, previously said "fear was everywhere" during her childhood in Lagos. Nigerian Vice-President Kashim Shettima suggested Ms Badenoch could "remove the Kemi from her name" if she was not proud of her "nation of origin". During a speech, he said his government was "proud" of her "in spite of her efforts at denigrating her nation of origin." The audience applauded him as he added: "She is entitled to her own opinions; she has even every right to remove the Kemi from her name but that does not underscore the fact that the greatest black nation on earth is the nation called Nigeria." He compared her comments to Mr Sunak's pride in his Indian heritage, describing him as "a brilliant young man" who "never denigrated his nation of ancestry". Ms Badenoch's spokesman hit back that she "stands by what she says" and "is not the PR for Nigeria". "She is the leader of the opposition and she is very proud of her leadership of the opposition in this country," he said. "She tells the truth. She tells it like it is. She is not going to couch her words." 7. Fumbling words in PMQs In another on-edge moment in PMQs, confusion circled the chamber as Ms Badenoch fumbled her words - which ended up making no sense. Talking about Mr Starmer's Cop29 trip, Ms Badenoch said: "I welcome the Prime Minister back from his trip to Azerbaijan where he has unilaterally made commitments that will make life more experience (sic) back home." MPs in the Commons wondered what she was talking about... As she continued, it became apparent she had meant to say "expensive". She went on: "He has made life more expensive with his unilateral commitments but speaking of making life more expensive, will the Prime Minister confirm that he will keep the cap on council tax?" The PM replied: "She talks of the trip to Cop. I'm very proud of the fact that we're restoring leadership on climate. That will be measured in lower bills, on energy independence and the jobs of the future." He added: "On the question of councils, she knows what the arrangements are." Be the first with news from Mirror Politics BLUESKY: Follow our Mirror Politics account on Bluesky here . And follow our Mirror Politics team here - Lizzy Buchan , Jason Beattie , Kevin Maguire , Sophie Huskisson , Dave Burke , Ashley Cowburn , Mikey Smith POLITICS WHATSAPP: Be first to get the biggest bombshells and breaking news by joining our Politics WhatsApp group here . We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you want to leave our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice . NEWSLETTER: Or sign up here to the Mirror's Politics newsletter for all the best exclusives and opinions straight to your inbox. PODCAST: And listen to our exciting new political podcast The Division Bell , hosted by the Mirror and the Express every Thursday. 8. Bizarre agreement with PM In another weird PMQs moment in November, Ms Badenoch attacked Labour's economic announcements - including on money for local authorities - before bizarrely agreeing with Mr Starmer's comeback. In her rant, the Tory leader called Rachel Reeves a "copy and paste chancellor" and claimed "it is clear they had not thought through the impact of the Budget". But Mr Starmer hit back and said Labour's October Budget "does not increase tax on working people" and is putting huge investment into the NHS, schools and housing. The PM added: "If she's against those things, she should say so." In response, Ms Badenoch surprisingly agreed: "I'm not against any of those things, of course not, none of us are against any of those things. But he has confirmed that he does not know what is going on. "The Prime Minister probably does not realise that on Monday the Ministry for Communities, Local Government and Housing revealed that councils will need to find an additional £2.4 billion in council tax next year. That is a lot more than £600 million. I know that he has been away, but did the Deputy Prime Minister who runs that department make him aware of their £2.4billion black hole?" Mr Starmer replied: "Let me get this straight, she doesn't want any of the measures in the Budget, but she wants all the benefits. So the budget management is back after two weeks in office. They've learned absolutely nothing. We put forward a Budget which takes the difficult decisions, fixing the £22billion black hole, investing in the future of our country. They say they want all of that, but they don't know how they're going to pay for it - same old Tories." 9. Laughing at MP's question In November Ms Badenoch was called out on social media for laughing after an MP criticised her for saying maternity pay is "excessive". The new Tory leader came under fire at the Conservative Party conference in September that maternity pay had gone “too far”. She rowed back on her comments after widespread criticism, claiming “of course” she believes in maternity pay. But she maintained that maternity pay - as well as minimum wage - was "overburdening businesses" . During the PMqs session, Labour MP Lloyd Hatton asked Mr Starmer : "Members have raised their concerns of a range of damaging policies pursued by the Leader of the Opposition. These include voting against critical investment for our NHS , stating maternity pay is excessive and that the minimum wage is a burden, and even backing harmful backing when last in government." The camera then cut to Ms Badenoch laughing on the opposition benches in the Commons. Ms Badenoch hit back: "The Prime Minister can plant as many questions as he likes with his backbenchers but at the end of the day I am the one he has to face at the despatch box."Independent evaluation recognizes Ochsner Digital Medicine for superior hypertension management

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When the Great Recession struck California 17 years ago and hundreds of thousands of workers lost their jobs, the state’s unemployment insurance system crashed. The employer-financed program quickly exhausted its thin reserves, due to a short-sighted political decision six years earlier. In 2001, the Unemployment Insurance Fund had a $6.5 billion positive balance. But the governor at the time, Democrat Gray Davis, owed big political debts to unions that financed his 1998 campaign. He repaid them by doubling unemployment insurance benefits, contending that the seemingly hefty reserve could cover them without raising payroll taxes on employers. When recession struck, the insurance fund soon leaked red ink and the state borrowed about $10 billion from the federal government to maintain cash payments. When the state didn’t repay the loan, the feds raised payroll taxes for nearly a decade to retire the loan. It should have been a lesson for political policymakers about instant gratification and financial responsibility, but it wasn’t. Shortly after the $10 billion loan was paid off, California was hammered by the COVID-19 pandemic, and upwards of 3 million workers lost their jobs as the state ordered workplace closures. Once again, the unemployment insurance program had virtually no reserves to cover the sharp increase in claims. Once again it borrowed from the federal government, this time for $20 billion, and once again its failure to repay forced the feds to increase payroll taxes. In addition to a double dose of financial problems, the Employment Development Department has also experienced managerial failures. In 2011 Elaine Howle, the state auditor, laid out the department’s shortcomings in a sharply worded report, but when the pandemic hit, they once again became evident. There were massive glitches in responding to legitimate claims for insurance benefits, while the department gave tens of billions of dollars to fraudsters. Meanwhile employers are still repaying the last loan, and the state’s insurance fund is continuing to run deficits, unable to cover current benefits of nearly $7 billion a year. With that history in mind, another watchdog agency, the Legislative Analyst’s Office, is urging a complete overhaul of unemployment insurance, declaring the system “is broken.” Noting that the current state payroll tax cannot fully cover current benefits, much less build reserves, the LAO report projects a “perpetually outstanding federal loan” to keep payments flowing that must be repaid with interest. The report proposes a four-part tough love approach to a crisis that has been building for more than two decades and cannot solve itself, to wit it advises the state to: There may be other alternatives, perhaps affecting benefits, but the main thing is that doing nothing will just perpetuate this crisis — even though the politics of the issue are daunting. It’s been a political stalemate for nearly a quarter-century, pitting unions seeking to protect, or even increase, benefits against employers who don’t want to shoulder increased taxes. Successive governors and legislative leaders have shunned engagement, preferring to kick the can down the road. Dan Walters is one of most decorated and widely syndicated columnists in California history, authoring a column four times a week that offers his view and analysis of the state’s political, economic, social and demographic trends.

NORMAL, Ill. (AP) — Sasa Ciani had 16 points in UIC's 73-67 victory over Illinois State on Sunday. Ciani had nine rebounds for the Flames (9-4, 1-1 Missouri Valley Conference). Javon Jackson scored 14 points while going 4 of 10 from the floor, including 2 for 3 from 3-point range, and 4 for 6 from the line. Ahmad Henderson II shot 4 of 7 from the field, including 1 for 3 from 3-point range, and went 3 for 3 from the line to finish with 12 points. The Redbirds (8-5, 0-2) were led by Malachi Poindexter, who posted 20 points. Ty Pence added 10 points and Dalton Banks pitched in with nine points, five assists and two steals. Jackson scored nine points in the first half and UIC went into the break trailing 35-33. UIC outscored Illinois State by eight points in the second half. Ciani led the way with 14 second-half points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .I would love to revolutionize your Thanksgiving Day speeches, but I must admit that the blessings I feel gratitude for are embarrassingly mundane. I mean, I am thankful for weekends, babies, walks in the rain, comfy sofas, random acts of kindness, the fact that I pay so little attention at work, I am permanently exempted from having to sign a non-disclosure agreement... I am thankful that the descendants of Abraham have been blessed to be as numerous as the stars in the sky and the grains of sand on the seashore, although they do fall short of the number of artificial ingredients in a box of breakfast cereal. I am thankful that some states’ vote-counting pace provides a perfect strategy for dieters. (“Whoa! It turns out that combo meal I ate last Tuesday had 2,000 calories! I’ll have to take that into account the Thursday after next, when I find out how many calories this here chocolate fountain packs!”) I am thankful that my taste buds can accommodate sour grapes. That makes it easier when my smartphone camera announces, “Storage full!” just as I’m about to snap some once-in-a-lifetime photograph. (“Ah, who needs a photo of Bigfoot hiding a lost John Lennon recording in Amelia Earhart’s plane, anyway?”) I am thankful that – if there’s any justice in the world – all those clothing designers who refuse to standardize sizes and cuts will someday find themselves not quite fitting into their caskets or urns. I am thankful that I can still manage to fake detecting a difference between 500 permutations of (faintly) scented candles. (“Ah, yes – the Buttcheeks & Boysenberry! I shall savor the experience until my dying day! Perhaps you would enjoy a little something I call Eau de Exertion of Just Turning On The %$#@ Lamp. Wait, there’s more! I’m also marketing a new game called Just What Foul Odor Is Debbie Trying To Mask, Anyway?”) I am thankful that if you smile, the world smiles with you – although not necessarily at the same time and not without sneezing, half-closed eyes and devil horns. I am thankful that I may someday be as famous as Robert Oppenheimer, since my kitchen junk drawer is finally approaching critical mass. I am thankful that folks tolerate my inability to remember names, but let’s be honest: most people don’t have names that are that memorable to start with. You can ask (let me consult my list here) my mechanic Brad Pitt, my accountant Babe Ruth and my neighbor John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt. I am thankful that there has been a pause in cases of zealots trying to “cram their ideas down your throat.” Of course, the tentative plan to infect you with their opinions via a patch is alarming in its own right. (“No, wait. Better yet: you can now scan this QR Code to have all your beliefs ridiculed to the core!”) I am thankful to find teachable moments in life, although some days I’m less inclined to impart my years of wisdom than to announce, “Hey, go raid your grandparents’ closet and do a Seventies dress-up day!” Don’t take things for granted this Thanksgiving. Show a little reverence. In the words of the patriarch Isaac, “Hey, Dad, the next time you want to try a burnt offering, might I suggest a box of Fruity Pebbles, instead?”

Tate McCubbin scores 20 as Austin Peay rolls past Brescia 93-46 CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tate McCubbin had 20 points and Austin Peay cruised to a 93-46 victory over Brescia on Sunday. McCubbin also contributed eight rebounds for the Governors (5-8). Canadian Press Dec 29, 2024 5:07 PM Dec 29, 2024 5:20 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tate McCubbin had 20 points and Austin Peay cruised to a 93-46 victory over Brescia on Sunday. McCubbin also contributed eight rebounds for the Governors (5-8). Anton Brookshire scored 15 points while going 5 of 13 (5 for 12 from 3-point range). Isaac Haney went 5 of 9 from the field (4 for 8 from 3-point range) to finish with 14 points. The win broke a six-game slide for the Governors. Damian Garcia led the way for the Bearcats with 17 points. ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar . The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Science News Former U.S. president Jimmy Carter, once called a 'pretty good Canadian,' dies at 100 Dec 29, 2024 5:18 PM Aaron Rodgers-led Jets unravel in undisciplined and turnover-filled 40-14 loss to the Bills Dec 29, 2024 4:27 PM A 9th telecoms firm has been hit by a massive Chinese espionage campaign, the White House says Dec 27, 2024 5:55 PMNone

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AP News Summary at 10:21 a.m. ESTLOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Rams faced fourth-and-5 at the Buffalo 35 with a 38-35 lead and just under four minutes to play Sunday in their high-octane showdown with the Bills. Sean McVay is often a conservative coach, and it would not have been surprising to see him try a long field goal, or even punt. He kept his offense on the field, and Matthew Stafford calmly went through his progression before finding Tutu Atwell across the middle for an 11-yard gain that played a major role in the Rams' ability to hold on for a season-altering, 44-42 victory over the powerhouse Bills . “We felt like we needed to make it a two-possession game,” McVay said Monday. “They were rolling. We talked about aggressively going to win that game. ... It was just a reflection of the confidence in that group and what we felt like we needed to do to be able to win the game.” The Rams offense has earned the confidence McVay showed in it at that crucial moment. That unit hasn't always been good this season, entering last weekend rated just 18th in the league, but the Rams finally are mostly healthy heading down the stretch — and Puka Nacua and Kyren Williams are again playing at last season's Pro Bowl level. That was bad news for Buffalo, and it could mean trouble for the rest of the NFC if the Rams (7-6) can keep scoring like this. Los Angeles will hope to keep this offensive momentum on a short week heading to San Francisco on Thursday night. Nacua said it was “fantastic being able to feel like, man, this is what it feels like when the Rams are moving and connecting on all cylinders.” Los Angeles had six scoring drives of at least 65 yards while racking up 457 yards against Buffalo. Stafford had a season-high 320 yards passing, while Nacua had another spectacular game with 162 yards receiving and two touchdowns along with 16 yards rushing and another TD on five carries. Incredibly, it was the Rams’ first 40-point game with Stafford behind center. Thanks to that stellar offensive performance, the Rams are above .500 for the first time all season and just one game back of Seattle (8-5) in the NFC West after winning six of their past eight games. A team that appeared to be headed for a grim season after a 1-4 start is still firmly in the playoff race, also trailing Washington (8-5) by just one game for the final wild-card spot. “It’s cool to be able to play meaningful football in December,” said McVay, who led the Rams to five playoff berths in his first seven seasons. "You never take that for granted.” What's working The offense hummed largely because it went 11 of 15 on third downs. That's the Rams' highest success rate in a game since 2001 — and don't forget that crucial fourth down conversion, either. What needs help Few teams can stop Josh Allen, but the Rams' defense didn't come close. The defensive backs particularly struggled, from Darious Williams getting beaten repeatedly in coverage to Quentin Lake's 34-yard pass-interference penalty in the final moments. Two weeks after Philadelphia dropped 481 yards at SoFi Stadium, Buffalo had 445 to push the Rams down to 26th in total defense entering Monday. Stock up The Rams' offensive line has struggled mightily at times this season, but it allowed no sacks and just three hits on Stafford while clearing the way for 137 yards rushing. With full health, the line is no longer a liability. Stock down Edge rusher Byron Young had a rough outing that included two penalties on Buffalo's first drive — an egregious late hit on Allen and a defensive offside that negated a 2-yard Bills loss on second down from the LA 1. The Rams' overall defensive discipline was repeatedly poor, and it cost them. Injuries CB Cobie Durant has a bruised lung, McVay revealed Monday. The Rams are uncertain whether it will prevent him from playing Thursday. Durant has started all 13 games this season. ... WR Demarcus Robinson sprained his shoulder against Buffalo, but kept playing. Key number 1 — The numbers of NFL games played with two teams scoring at least 40 points and making no turnovers. The Rams and Bills made history. Next steps The 49ers haven't been this vulnerable in four years, but Kyle Shanahan has had McVay's number throughout their careers — notwithstanding the Rams' 27-24 comeback win in September when both teams' top offensive playmakers were all injured. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/NFL

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The U.S. Food Drug Administration (FDA) has granted accelerated approval of a new drug for treating bilary tract cancer that was developed by Vancouver’ Zymeworks Inc. (Nasdaq: ZYME) under a licensing and commercialization agreement with Jazz Pharmaceuticals. The new drug, Ziihera, could net Zymeworks more than $1 billion just in milestone payments, and millions more in royalties, upon full commercialization. Gaining the FDA’s accelerated approval triggers a $25 million milestone payment to Zymeworks from Jazz Pharmaceuticals – the first of more to come, should other milestones be reached. Under its licensing agreement, Zymeworks is eligible for up to $500 million in regulatory milestones, $862.5 million in commercial milestone payments, and royalties of 10 to 20 per cent on sales. “This approval represents the first FDA-approved therapy in Zymeworks’ pipeline, and validates the company’s novel Azymetric bispecific platform technology and internal research and development capabilities for novel multifunctional medicines,” Zymeworks says in a news release. “The FDA’s accelerated approval of Ziihera marks the culmination of more than a decade of research and development at Zymeworks, highlighting our deep scientific expertise in multifunctional biotherapeutics and unwavering commitment to innovation in drug development,” said Paul Moore, Zymeworks’ chief science officer. Ziihera is one of several variations of the bispecific antibody Zanidatamab that Zymeworks developed for treating various types of cancer, and one of three in the advanced “pivotal” trial phase. Several others are at phase 2 in clinical trials. In 2022, Zymeworks entered a licence and collaboration agreement with Jazz Pharmaceuticals Ireland Ltd -- a subsidiary of Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc -- for the exclusive development and commercialization rights to Zanidatamab in the U.S., Europe, Japan and other countries. A published last year in The Lancet concluded that Zanidatamab “demonstrated meaningful clinical benefit with a manageable safety profile in patients with treatment-refractory, HER2-positive biliary tract cancer.”Riyadh Metro to kick off first phase on Nov 27, includes 3 lines

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Percentages: FG .455, FT .750. 3-Point Goals: 7-18, .389 (T.Thomas 4-5, Camara 1-2, Carralero Martin 1-3, Willoughby 1-3, Rouzan 0-1, Ward 0-1, Freeman 0-3). Team Rebounds: 5. Team Turnovers: None. Blocked Shots: 3 (Carralero Martin 2, Willoughby). Turnovers: 9 (Carralero Martin 2, Freeman 2, T.Thomas 2, Ward 2, Rouzan). Steals: 13 (Camara 3, Carralero Martin 3, Freeman 3, Ward 3, Love). Technical Fouls: None. Percentages: FG .373, FT .625. 3-Point Goals: 7-31, .226 (Eaglestaff 3-10, Panoam 1-3, R.Thomas 1-3, King 1-5, Woodson 1-7, Kuljuhovic 0-1, Mara 0-1, Natsvishvili 0-1). Team Rebounds: 4. Team Turnovers: None. Blocked Shots: 3 (Woodson 2, King). Turnovers: 17 (Eaglestaff 5, Kuljuhovic 3, Panoam 3, King 2, Woodson 2, Mara, Mayar). Steals: 7 (R.Thomas 2, Eaglestaff, King, Mara, Mathews, Natsvishvili). Technical Fouls: None. A_123 (1,000).

By JOSH BOAK WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden said Tuesday he was “stupid” not to put his own name on pandemic relief checks in 2021, noting that Donald Trump had done so in 2020 and likely got credit for helping people out through this simple, effective act of branding. Biden did the second-guessing as he delivered a speech at the Brookings Institution defending his economic record and challenging Trump to preserve Democratic policy ideas when he returns to the White House next month. Related Articles National Politics | Trump names Andrew Ferguson as head of Federal Trade Commission to replace Lina Khan National Politics | Donald Trump is returning to the world stage. So is his trolling National Politics | Biden issues veto threat on bill expanding federal judiciary as partisan split emerges National Politics | Trump lawyers and aide hit with 10 additional felony charges in Wisconsin over 2020 fake electors National Politics | After withdrawing as attorney general nominee, Matt Gaetz lands a talk show on OANN television As Biden focused on his legacy with his term ending, he suggested Trump should keep the Democrats’ momentum going and ignore the policies of his allies. The president laid out favorable recent economic data but acknowledged his rare public regret that he had not been more self-promotional in advertising the financial support provided by his administration as the country emerged from the pandemic. “I signed the American Rescue Plan, the most significant economic recovery package in our history, and also learned something from Donald Trump,” Biden said at the Washington-based think tank. “He signed checks for people for 7,400 bucks ... and I didn’t. Stupid.” The decision by the former reality TV star and real estate developer to add his name to the checks sent by the U.S. Treasury to millions of Americans struggling during the coronavirus marked the first time a president’s name appeared on any IRS payments. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris , who replaced him as the Democratic nominee , largely failed to convince the American public of the strength of the economy. The addition of 16 million jobs, funding for infrastructure, new factories and investments in renewable energy were not enough to overcome public exhaustion over inflation, which spiked in 2022 and left many households coping with elevated grocery, gasoline and housing costs. More than 6 in 10 voters in November’s election described the economy as “poor” or “not so good,” according to AP VoteCast, an extensive survey of the electorate. Trump won nearly 7 in 10 of the voters who felt the economy was in bad shape, paving the way for a second term as president after his 2020 loss to Biden. Biden used his speech to argue that Trump was inheriting a strong economy that is the envy of the world. The inflation rate fell without a recession that many economists had viewed as inevitable, while the unemployment rate is a healthy 4.2% and applications to start new businesses are at record levels. Biden called the numbers under his watch “a new set of benchmarks to measure against the next four years.” “President-elect Trump is receiving the strongest economy in modern history,” said Biden, who warned that Trump’s planned tax cuts could lead to massive deficits or deep spending cuts. He also said that Trump’s promise of broad tariffs on foreign imports would be a mistake, part of a broader push Tuesday by the administration to warn against Trump’s threatened action. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen also issued a word of caution about them at a summit of The Wall Street Journal’s CEO Council. “I think the imposition of broad based tariffs, at least of the type that have been discussed, almost all economists agree this would raise prices on American consumers,” she said. Biden was also critical of Trump allies who have pushed Project 2025 , a policy blueprint from the Heritage Foundation that calls for a complete overhaul of the federal government. Trump has disavowed participation in it, though parts were written by his allies and overlap with his stated views on economics, immigration, education policy and civil rights. “I pray to God the president-elect throws away Project 2025,” Biden said. “I think it would be an economic disaster.” Associated Press writer Fatima Hussein in Washington contributed to this report.

NoneDonald Trump is returning to the world stage. So is his trollingThe streets of Tbilisi and its central Rustaveli Avenue were crowded on the 16th consecutive day of protests, as more than a dozen separate marches converged on the parliament building. Throughout the day, different social and professional groups – from clubbers to psychologists, from PR/HR workers to emigrants, from the theatre to the IT/tech community – held separate protest marches and rallies at different places and times of the day. At 1 pm, workers from different companies left their offices as part of an announced one-hour symbolic general strike. The protests brought traffic to a standstill across Tbilisi, causing serious disruption to the city’s transport system. ‘s Guram Muradov captured memorable moments from the protest: This post is also available in:

Middle East latest: Syrians celebrate Assad's fall as US seeks a peaceful political transitionBy BILL BARROW, Associated Press ATLANTA (AP) — Jimmy Carter, the peanut farmer who won the presidency in the wake of the Watergate scandal and Vietnam War, endured humbling defeat after one tumultuous term and then redefined life after the White House as a global humanitarian, has died. He was 100 years old. The longest-lived American president died on Sunday, more than a year after entering hospice care , at his home in the small town of Plains, Georgia, where he and his wife, Rosalynn, who died at 96 in November 2023 , spent most of their lives, The Carter Center said. Businessman, Navy officer, evangelist, politician, negotiator, author, woodworker, citizen of the world — Carter forged a path that still challenges political assumptions and stands out among the 45 men who reached the nation’s highest office. The 39th president leveraged his ambition with a keen intellect, deep religious faith and prodigious work ethic, conducting diplomatic missions into his 80s and building houses for the poor well into his 90s. “My faith demands — this is not optional — my faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can, with whatever I have to try to make a difference,” Carter once said. A moderate Democrat, Carter entered the 1976 presidential race as a little-known Georgia governor with a broad smile, outspoken Baptist mores and technocratic plans reflecting his education as an engineer. His no-frills campaign depended on public financing, and his promise not to deceive the American people resonated after Richard Nixon’s disgrace and U.S. defeat in southeast Asia. “If I ever lie to you, if I ever make a misleading statement, don’t vote for me. I would not deserve to be your president,” Carter repeated before narrowly beating Republican incumbent Gerald Ford, who had lost popularity pardoning Nixon. Carter governed amid Cold War pressures, turbulent oil markets and social upheaval over racism, women’s rights and America’s global role. His most acclaimed achievement in office was a Mideast peace deal that he brokered by keeping Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin at the bargaining table for 13 days in 1978. That Camp David experience inspired the post-presidential center where Carter would establish so much of his legacy. Yet Carter’s electoral coalition splintered under double-digit inflation, gasoline lines and the 444-day hostage crisis in Iran. His bleakest hour came when eight Americans died in a failed hostage rescue in April 1980, helping to ensure his landslide defeat to Republican Ronald Reagan. Carter acknowledged in his 2020 “White House Diary” that he could be “micromanaging” and “excessively autocratic,” complicating dealings with Congress and the federal bureaucracy. He also turned a cold shoulder to Washington’s news media and lobbyists, not fully appreciating their influence on his political fortunes. “It didn’t take us long to realize that the underestimation existed, but by that time we were not able to repair the mistake,” Carter told historians in 1982, suggesting that he had “an inherent incompatibility” with Washington insiders. Carter insisted his overall approach was sound and that he achieved his primary objectives — to “protect our nation’s security and interests peacefully” and “enhance human rights here and abroad” — even if he fell spectacularly short of a second term. Ignominious defeat, though, allowed for renewal. The Carters founded The Carter Center in 1982 as a first-of-its-kind base of operations, asserting themselves as international peacemakers and champions of democracy, public health and human rights. “I was not interested in just building a museum or storing my White House records and memorabilia,” Carter wrote in a memoir published after his 90th birthday. “I wanted a place where we could work.” That work included easing nuclear tensions in North and South Korea, helping to avert a U.S. invasion of Haiti and negotiating cease-fires in Bosnia and Sudan. By 2022, The Carter Center had declared at least 113 elections in Latin America, Asia and Africa to be free or fraudulent. Recently, the center began monitoring U.S. elections as well. Carter’s stubborn self-assuredness and even self-righteousness proved effective once he was unencumbered by the Washington order, sometimes to the point of frustrating his successors . He went “where others are not treading,” he said, to places like Ethiopia, Liberia and North Korea, where he secured the release of an American who had wandered across the border in 2010. “I can say what I like. I can meet whom I want. I can take on projects that please me and reject the ones that don’t,” Carter said. He announced an arms-reduction-for-aid deal with North Korea without clearing the details with Bill Clinton’s White House. He openly criticized President George W. Bush for the 2003 invasion of Iraq. He also criticized America’s approach to Israel with his 2006 book “Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid.” And he repeatedly countered U.S. administrations by insisting North Korea should be included in international affairs, a position that most aligned Carter with Republican President Donald Trump. Among the center’s many public health initiatives, Carter vowed to eradicate the guinea worm parasite during his lifetime, and nearly achieved it: Cases dropped from millions in the 1980s to nearly a handful. With hardhats and hammers, the Carters also built homes with Habitat for Humanity. The Nobel committee’s 2002 Peace Prize cites his “untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.” Carter should have won it alongside Sadat and Begin in 1978, the chairman added. Carter accepted the recognition saying there was more work to be done. “The world is now, in many ways, a more dangerous place,” he said. “The greater ease of travel and communication has not been matched by equal understanding and mutual respect.” Carter’s globetrotting took him to remote villages where he met little “Jimmy Carters,” so named by admiring parents. But he spent most of his days in the same one-story Plains house — expanded and guarded by Secret Service agents — where they lived before he became governor. He regularly taught Sunday School lessons at Maranatha Baptist Church until his mobility declined and the coronavirus pandemic raged. Those sessions drew visitors from around the world to the small sanctuary where Carter will receive his final send-off after a state funeral at Washington’s National Cathedral. The common assessment that he was a better ex-president than president rankled Carter and his allies. His prolific post-presidency gave him a brand above politics, particularly for Americans too young to witness him in office. But Carter also lived long enough to see biographers and historians reassess his White House years more generously. His record includes the deregulation of key industries, reduction of U.S. dependence on foreign oil, cautious management of the national debt and notable legislation on the environment, education and mental health. He focused on human rights in foreign policy, pressuring dictators to release thousands of political prisoners . He acknowledged America’s historical imperialism, pardoned Vietnam War draft evaders and relinquished control of the Panama Canal. He normalized relations with China. “I am not nominating Jimmy Carter for a place on Mount Rushmore,” Stuart Eizenstat, Carter’s domestic policy director, wrote in a 2018 book. “He was not a great president” but also not the “hapless and weak” caricature voters rejected in 1980, Eizenstat said. Rather, Carter was “good and productive” and “delivered results, many of which were realized only after he left office.” Madeleine Albright, a national security staffer for Carter and Clinton’s secretary of state, wrote in Eizenstat’s forward that Carter was “consequential and successful” and expressed hope that “perceptions will continue to evolve” about his presidency. “Our country was lucky to have him as our leader,” said Albright, who died in 2022. Jonathan Alter, who penned a comprehensive Carter biography published in 2020, said in an interview that Carter should be remembered for “an epic American life” spanning from a humble start in a home with no electricity or indoor plumbing through decades on the world stage across two centuries. “He will likely go down as one of the most misunderstood and underestimated figures in American history,” Alter told The Associated Press. James Earl Carter Jr. was born Oct. 1, 1924, in Plains and spent his early years in nearby Archery. His family was a minority in the mostly Black community, decades before the civil rights movement played out at the dawn of Carter’s political career. Carter, who campaigned as a moderate on race relations but governed more progressively, talked often of the influence of his Black caregivers and playmates but also noted his advantages: His land-owning father sat atop Archery’s tenant-farming system and owned a main street grocery. His mother, Lillian , would become a staple of his political campaigns. Seeking to broaden his world beyond Plains and its population of fewer than 1,000 — then and now — Carter won an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating in 1946. That same year he married Rosalynn Smith, another Plains native, a decision he considered more important than any he made as head of state. She shared his desire to see the world, sacrificing college to support his Navy career. Carter climbed in rank to lieutenant, but then his father was diagnosed with cancer, so the submarine officer set aside his ambitions of admiralty and moved the family back to Plains. His decision angered Rosalynn, even as she dived into the peanut business alongside her husband. Carter again failed to talk with his wife before his first run for office — he later called it “inconceivable” not to have consulted her on such major life decisions — but this time, she was on board. “My wife is much more political,” Carter told the AP in 2021. He won a state Senate seat in 1962 but wasn’t long for the General Assembly and its back-slapping, deal-cutting ways. He ran for governor in 1966 — losing to arch-segregationist Lester Maddox — and then immediately focused on the next campaign. Carter had spoken out against church segregation as a Baptist deacon and opposed racist “Dixiecrats” as a state senator. Yet as a local school board leader in the 1950s he had not pushed to end school segregation even after the Supreme Court’s Brown v. Board of Education decision, despite his private support for integration. And in 1970, Carter ran for governor again as the more conservative Democrat against Carl Sanders, a wealthy businessman Carter mocked as “Cufflinks Carl.” Sanders never forgave him for anonymous, race-baiting flyers, which Carter disavowed. Ultimately, Carter won his races by attracting both Black voters and culturally conservative whites. Once in office, he was more direct. “I say to you quite frankly that the time for racial discrimination is over,” he declared in his 1971 inaugural address, setting a new standard for Southern governors that landed him on the cover of Time magazine. His statehouse initiatives included environmental protection, boosting rural education and overhauling antiquated executive branch structures. He proclaimed Martin Luther King Jr. Day in the slain civil rights leader’s home state. And he decided, as he received presidential candidates in 1972, that they were no more talented than he was. In 1974, he ran Democrats’ national campaign arm. Then he declared his own candidacy for 1976. An Atlanta newspaper responded with the headline: “Jimmy Who?” The Carters and a “Peanut Brigade” of family members and Georgia supporters camped out in Iowa and New Hampshire, establishing both states as presidential proving grounds. His first Senate endorsement: a young first-termer from Delaware named Joe Biden. Yet it was Carter’s ability to navigate America’s complex racial and rural politics that cemented the nomination. He swept the Deep South that November, the last Democrat to do so, as many white Southerners shifted to Republicans in response to civil rights initiatives. A self-declared “born-again Christian,” Carter drew snickers by referring to Scripture in a Playboy magazine interview, saying he “had looked on many women with lust. I’ve committed adultery in my heart many times.” The remarks gave Ford a new foothold and television comedians pounced — including NBC’s new “Saturday Night Live” show. But voters weary of cynicism in politics found it endearing. Carter chose Minnesota Sen. Walter “Fritz” Mondale as his running mate on a “Grits and Fritz” ticket. In office, he elevated the vice presidency and the first lady’s office. Mondale’s governing partnership was a model for influential successors Al Gore, Dick Cheney and Biden. Rosalynn Carter was one of the most involved presidential spouses in history, welcomed into Cabinet meetings and huddles with lawmakers and top aides. The Carters presided with uncommon informality: He used his nickname “Jimmy” even when taking the oath of office, carried his own luggage and tried to silence the Marine Band’s “Hail to the Chief.” They bought their clothes off the rack. Carter wore a cardigan for a White House address, urging Americans to conserve energy by turning down their thermostats. Amy, the youngest of four children, attended District of Columbia public school. Washington’s social and media elite scorned their style. But the larger concern was that “he hated politics,” according to Eizenstat, leaving him nowhere to turn politically once economic turmoil and foreign policy challenges took their toll. Carter partially deregulated the airline, railroad and trucking industries and established the departments of Education and Energy, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. He designated millions of acres of Alaska as national parks or wildlife refuges. He appointed a then-record number of women and nonwhite people to federal posts. He never had a Supreme Court nomination, but he elevated civil rights attorney Ruth Bader Ginsburg to the nation’s second highest court, positioning her for a promotion in 1993. He appointed Paul Volker, the Federal Reserve chairman whose policies would help the economy boom in the 1980s — after Carter left office. He built on Nixon’s opening with China, and though he tolerated autocrats in Asia, pushed Latin America from dictatorships to democracy. But he couldn’t immediately tame inflation or the related energy crisis. And then came Iran. After he admitted the exiled Shah of Iran to the U.S. for medical treatment, the American Embassy in Tehran was overrun in 1979 by followers of the Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Negotiations to free the hostages broke down repeatedly ahead of the failed rescue attempt. The same year, Carter signed SALT II, the new strategic arms treaty with Leonid Brezhnev of the Soviet Union, only to pull it back, impose trade sanctions and order a U.S. boycott of the Moscow Olympics after the Soviets invaded Afghanistan. Hoping to instill optimism, he delivered what the media dubbed his “malaise” speech, although he didn’t use that word. He declared the nation was suffering “a crisis of confidence.” By then, many Americans had lost confidence in the president, not themselves. Carter campaigned sparingly for reelection because of the hostage crisis, instead sending Rosalynn as Sen. Edward M. Kennedy challenged him for the Democratic nomination. Carter famously said he’d “kick his ass,” but was hobbled by Kennedy as Reagan rallied a broad coalition with “make America great again” appeals and asking voters whether they were “better off than you were four years ago.” Reagan further capitalized on Carter’s lecturing tone, eviscerating him in their lone fall debate with the quip: “There you go again.” Carter lost all but six states and Republicans rolled to a new Senate majority. Carter successfully negotiated the hostages’ freedom after the election, but in one final, bitter turn of events, Tehran waited until hours after Carter left office to let them walk free. At 56, Carter returned to Georgia with “no idea what I would do with the rest of my life.” Four decades after launching The Carter Center, he still talked of unfinished business. “I thought when we got into politics we would have resolved everything,” Carter told the AP in 2021. “But it’s turned out to be much more long-lasting and insidious than I had thought it was. I think in general, the world itself is much more divided than in previous years.” Still, he affirmed what he said when he underwent treatment for a cancer diagnosis in his 10th decade of life. “I’m perfectly at ease with whatever comes,” he said in 2015 . “I’ve had a wonderful life. I’ve had thousands of friends, I’ve had an exciting, adventurous and gratifying existence.” ___ Former Associated Press journalist Alex Sanz contributed to this report.A body language commentator has suggested that one particular campmate on I'm A Celebrity could end up "susceptible" to quitting the ITV show in the coming days. Dean McCullough, 32, has faced more bushtucker trails than any other celebrity so far on the new series, having taken on four trials in the last week. The BBC Radio 1 presenter however hasn't managed to win many stars for the camp. One trial, which aired on Wednesday night, saw Dean joined by fellow campmate and podcast host GK Barry, 25. The pair failed to win any stars for camp, though Dean has since won stars in subsequent trails in the jungle. Following Dean's trial with GK, behaviour and body language commentator Nicole Greenfield-Smith teased to Mecca Games that he could end up quitting I'm A Celebrity. Nicole said: "I thought [Wednesday's] trial was interesting and if Dean flunks many more trials, it could leave him susceptible to...

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ST. PAUL — St. Paul-based Bremer Bank is being acquired by Old National Bank, which has headquarters in Evansville, Indiana, in a transaction valued at $1.4 billion in cash and stock. The deal, which still requires regulatory approval and approval by Bremer shareholders, would combine Bremer’s $16.2 billion in assets with Old National’s nearly $54 billion to create a bank with more than $70 billion in total assets. ADVERTISEMENT “This partnership represents an outstanding fit between two highly compatible, relationship- and community-focused banks,” Old National Chairman and CEO Jim Ryan said in a joint announcement released Monday, Nov. 25. Ryan said what has made Bremer Bank a leading institution since 1943 aligns closely with the “strategic priorities and cultural principles that have guided Old National’s success for 190 years: a strong deposit franchise, a diversified loan portfolio accentuated by exceptional credit quality, and a passion for investing in and strengthening communities.” “For more than 80 years, we’ve been honored to carry out the legacy of our founder, Otto Bremer,” said Jeanne Crain, president and CEO of Bremer. “When our majority shareholder, the Otto Bremer Trust, reaffirmed its interest in selling Bremer Bank, we appreciated the opportunity to identify a partner through a collaborative process to ensure the best possible outcome for our customers, employees, and our communities. With Old National, we have confidence we found a great fit,” Crain said as part of the joint announcement. The Otto Bremer Trust, a majority owner of Bremer Bank, is a private charitable trust based in St. Paul. Since the trust’s inception in 1944, it has made more than $1.1 billion in grants and program-related investments to more than 4,200 organizations. Once the merger is complete, the trust will have an approximate 11% ownership stake in Old National Bank and a trustee of the Otto Bremer Trust will join the Old National board of directors. ADVERTISEMENT The Otto Bremer Trust stated as part of the joint announcement: “All of us at the Otto Bremer Trust are excited that the Bremer Bank legacy of investing in people, places and opportunities continues with one of the most community-minded banks in the nation. This partnership expands the scope of what can be accomplished for and within our communities — civically, socially and economically.” Once the deal is finalized, Old National will become the third-largest bank in the Twin Cities, and the partnership will expand Old National’s reach into several other markets throughout Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin. The deal affects 48 Bremer Bank branches in Minnesota and 14 in North Dakota, including six locations in Grand Forks and seven in the Fargo region.

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ATLANTA (AP) — Kara Dunn scored a season-high 28 points, Dani Carnegie had her career high with 24 points, and No. 13 Georgia Tech rolled past Pittsburgh 100-61 on Sunday. Dunn made 10 of 14 shots and 7 of 8 free throws to go with seven rebounds and three assists. Carnegie, a freshman who averages 14.5 points per game off the bench, made 9 of 16 shots, including 4 of 11 3-pointers. Georgia Tech made 11 of 19 shots (58%) in the first quarter and broke out to a 31-18 lead. The Yellow Jackets led 53-28 at halftime after Dunn scored 20 points, 13 in the first quarter. For the half, she made 7 of 10 shots and went 5 for 5 from the free-throw line. A 10-0 run in the third quarter pushed Georgia Tech's lead to 77-43 and the Yellow Jackets held the Panthers to four free throws over the final 3 1/2 minutes of the period. Tech's largest lead was 42 points after a 3-pointer by Chazadi Wright with 4 1/2 minutes left in the game. Wright finished with 16 points and Tonie Morgan had 15 points and eight assists. Pitt (8-7, 0-2 ACC) was led by Khadija Faye with 22 points. Brooklynn Miles scored 11 and Aislin Malcolm had 10. At 14-0 overall (2-0 ACC), Georgia Tech is chasing the highest ranking in program history. The Yellow Jackets reached No. 11 in the Associated Press poll on Feb. 7, 2022. Georgia Tech hosts Syracuse on Thursday. Pitt plays at No. 14 Duke on Jan. 5. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP women’s college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-womens-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/womens-college-basketballGukesh Dommaraju: Who is this Indian teen chess prodigy taking on China’s Ding Liren for the world crown?

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To The New York Times, it was a standard journalistic practice done in the name of fairness — asking someone involved in a story for comment. To the mother of the nominee for secretary of defense, it constituted a threat. On Wednesday, Pete Hegseth's mother accused the Times of making “threats” by calling about its story on an email she had sent to her son six years earlier that criticized his treatment of women. Penelope Hegseth sought and received an interview on Fox News Channel to support her son, whose confirmation chances are threatened by a series of damaging stories about his personal conduct. At one point, she said she wanted to directly tell President-elect Trump that her son “is not that man he was seven years ago.” She also called the Times “despicable” and attacked a basic tenet of journalism: giving someone the chance to speak for a story about actions that could be seen in a negative light. The Times' story, published Saturday , quoted from a private email that Penelope Hegseth sent to her son in 2018 while he was in the midst of divorcing his second wife. She criticized his character and treatment of women, suggesting that he get some help. “I have no respect for any man that belittles, lies, cheats, sleeps around and uses women for his own power and ego,” she wrote to her offspring. “You are that man (and have been for many years).” She told the Times for its story that she had sent the email in a moment of anger and followed it up two hours later with an apology. She disavows its content now. When the Times called her for comment on the story, Hegseth told Fox News that, at first, she did not respond. She said she perceived the calls as a threat — “they say unless you make a statement we will publish it as is and I think that's a despicable way to treat anyone,” she said. “I don't think a lot of people know that's the way they operate,” she said, speaking about the story. She accused the newspaper of being in it "for the money. And they don't care who they hurt, families, children. I don't believe that's the right way to do things.” Charles Stadtlander, a spokesman for the Times, said Hegseth's claim “is flatly untrue,” and she was in no way threatened. “The Times did what it always does in reporting out a story, simply reaching out and asking for a comment, which we included,” he said. Such a call is the opposite of a threat — it's an attempt to be fair, said Tom Rosenstiel, a University of Maryland professor and co-author of “Elements of Journalism: What News People Should Know and What the Public Should Expect.” “She's basically saying that brake lights are a threat because they alert you that the car ahead of you is about to stop," he said. But many Americans would perceive that call as a threat, or certainly as rude and a violation of privacy, said Tim Graham, director of media analysis at the conservative Media Research Center. “She didn't write that email to be on the front page of The New York Times,” he said. A secondary question is the newsworthiness of publishing the content of the private email, one that Hegseth said she almost immediately regretted sending and doesn't reflect how she perceives her son. Graham suggested that the newspaper wouldn't do the same for the nominee of a Democratic president-elect. “The New York Times is out to destroy these nominees,” he said. In its initial story, the Times wrote that it had obtained a copy of the email “from another person with ties to the Hegseth family.” “This was a piece of independently reported journalism published in the name of public awareness of the nominee to lead the largest department in the federal government,” Stadtlander said. “We stand behind it completely.” In many circumstances, an email from a mother to her son would be considered a private matter and out of bounds to a news organization, Rosenstiel said. But in this case, Hegseth, a former Fox News weekend host chosen by Trump to lead the Pentagon, has built himself into a public figure and is up for a very important job — and one that leads the military, which involves waging war and in which character is considered a fundamental trait. “It makes this news, honestly,” Stadtlander said. The Times wrote about Penelope Hegseth's Fox interview on Wednesday, leading with her saying her son “was not the same man he was in 2018 when she fired off an email accusing him of routinely abusing women and lacking decency and character.” There was some question about whether Hegseth would appear for an interview at his former network on Wednesday, after CNN's Kaitlan Collins posted on X the night before that “multiple people” said that was expected. A Fox News representative said that no such interview had been scheduled, and the nominee was on Capitol Hill meeting with senators. He has faced a flurry of other damaging reports, including stories about a sexual assault allegation reported to police in 2017. No charges were filed then, and Hegseth said the relationship was consensual. The New Yorker magazine wrote about reports of financial mismanagement , sexist behavior and excessive drinking when Hegseth ran a veterans' organization, and NBC News wrote about people at Fox News concerned about his alcohol use. David Bauder writes about media for the AP. Follow him at http://x.com/dbauder and https://bsky.app/profile/dbauder.bsky.social. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.

jili178 apps download free android WASHINGTON (AP) — Former Rep. Matt Gaetz said Friday that he will not be returning to Congress after withdrawing his name from consideration to be attorney general under President-elect Donald Trump amid growing allegations of sexual misconduct. “I’m still going to be in the fight, but it’s going to be from a new perch. I do not intend to join the 119th Congress,” Gaetz told conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, adding that he has “some other goals in life that I’m eager to pursue with my wife and my family.” The announcement comes a day after Gaetz, a Florida Republican, stepped aside from the Cabinet nomination process amid growing fallout from federal and House Ethics investigations that cast doubt on his ability to be confirmed as the nation’s chief federal law enforcement officer. The 42-year-old has vehemently denied the allegations against him. Gaetz's nomination as attorney general had stunned many career lawyers inside the Justice Department, but reflected Trump's desire to place a loyalist in a department he has marked for retribution following the criminal cases against him. Hours after Gaetz withdrew, Trump nominated Pam Bondi, the former Florida attorney general, who would come to the job with years of legal work under her belt and that other trait Trump prizes above all: loyalty. It's unclear what's next for Gaetz, who is no longer a member of the House. He surprised colleagues by resigning from Congress the same day that Trump nominated him for attorney general. Some speculated he could still be sworn into office for another two-year term on Jan. 3, given that he had just won reelection earlier this month. But Gaetz, who has been in state and national politics for 14 years, said he's done with Congress. “I think that eight years is probably enough time in the United States Congress," he said. Farnoush Amiri, The Associated PressPixalate Releases Q3 2024 North America Invalid Traffic (IVT) & Ad Fraud Benchmarks: United States Most At Risk to Ad Fraud on CTV (22% IVT Rate) & Mobile Apps (22%); Canada Has 17% Web IVT Rate

Share Tweet Share Share Email In recent years, the global chip market has experienced explosive growth, driven by emerging technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things. According to industry reports, the global chip market is expected to surpass $1.2 trillion by 2030. However, alongside this rapid expansion, cross-border chip transactions face significant challenges, including complex processes, high fees, and inefficiencies, which hinder industry growth. ChipChain Token (CCT) offers an innovative blockchain-based solution to address these pain points, providing a faster, more efficient, and cost-effective payment method for the global chip market. As technology advances and demand diversifies, chips have become a vital resource across multiple industries. However, traditional cross-border chip transactions still rely on cumbersome financial and logistical systems, leading to inefficiencies in payment processing. International remittances, involving multiple intermediaries, often take days or even weeks to settle. This delay severely impacts the agility of chip supply chains. Additionally, high foreign exchange fees and currency conversion costs further burden companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), limiting their ability to compete in the global market. Another critical issue is the lack of transparency in payment processes. In traditional systems, both parties often have limited visibility into the real-time status of funds, creating uncertainty and increasing transaction risks. For an industry like semiconductors, which heavily relies on supply chain reliability, this lack of transparency can lead to significant operational and financial setbacks. CCT addresses these challenges through its decentralized payment system and CCT tokens, offering agroundbreaking cross-border payment solution. By leveraging blockchain’s distributed ledger technology, CCT transforms the traditionally slow and opaque payment process into a fast, efficient, and transparent experience. Using CCT tokens, platform users can conduct near-instant cross-border payments, eliminating the need to wait for bank processing times. Automated through smart contracts, every transaction is fully transparent, and funds can be tracked in real-time, eliminating delays and human errors common in traditional payment methods. The CCT payment system supports seamless conversion between multiple fiat currencies and tokens, simplifying complex currency exchanges. Its built-in fee optimization algorithm identifies the lowest possible fees and fastest payment routes, significantly reducing the costs of cross-border transactions. With blockchain technology, CCT directly connects payers and recipients, eliminating reliance on intermediaries. This not only saves on middleman fees but also ensures that all transaction data is publicly transparent and recorded on-chain, greatly reducing information asymmetry. CCT’s cross-border payment solution is not only designed for large enterprises but also tailored to address the needs of SMEs, which often struggle with high costs and complex processes in global transactions. For many SMEs, the barriers of traditional cross-border payments restrict their ability to access international markets. CCT provides a low-cost, accessible tool with flexible fee adjustments, enabling these businesses to expand their operations without financial strain. Additionally, CCT’s smart contract capabilities support phased payment models, such as paying based on delivery progress. This dynamic settlement method eases financial pressure on buyers while protecting supplier interests, creating a mutually beneficial environment for both parties. As global demand for chips continues to grow, the internationalization of chip supply chains is accelerating. CCT’s cross-border payment solution not only enhances transaction efficiency but also integrates with the entire supply chain to provide greater transparency and collaboration. Through its supply chain tracking module, CCT ties every payment to the production, transportation, and delivery of chips, ensuring that financial flows align seamlessly with physical logistics. This comprehensive integration improves logistics efficiency and supports the globalization of the chip market. Market projections indicate that blockchain in supply chain management is expected to reach nearly $5 billion by 2028, and CCT is poised to play a significant role in this trend. As a critical component of chip trade, its cross-border payment solution will drive the global semiconductor market’s growth from billions to trillions of dollars. By simplifying payment processes, reducing costs, and increasing transparency, CCT enables businesses to complete transactions faster, accelerating market circulation and resource allocation efficiency. This industry-driven solution not only resolves existing challenges but also injects fresh momentum into the chip ecosystem’s sustainable development. ChipChain Token (CCT) is redefining payment processes in the chip industry and setting a new standard for global trade. Acting as a bridge between global chip suppliers and buyers, CCT’s efficient, secure, and transparent payment system is driving the internationalization of the semiconductor industry and fostering resource sharing. In the future, as CCT continues to optimize its technology and expand its market reach, its cross-border payment solution will extend beyond the chip industry, offering support for other sectors seeking globalization. CCT is leveraging innovative blockchain technology to transform the global semiconductor market, creating a future that is fairer, more efficient, and more sustainable for the entire industry. Techbullion Related Items: CCT Simplifies , Chip Payments Share Tweet Share Share Email CommentsIMRIS ( OTCMKTS:IMRSQ – Get Free Report ) and Integer ( NYSE:ITGR – Get Free Report ) are both medical companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their dividends, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, risk, valuation, earnings and profitability. Profitability This table compares IMRIS and Integer’s net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Earnings & Valuation This table compares IMRIS and Integer”s revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Insider and Institutional Ownership 99.3% of Integer shares are held by institutional investors. 2.0% of Integer shares are held 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. Analyst Ratings This is a breakdown of recent ratings and recommmendations for IMRIS and Integer, as provided by MarketBeat. Integer has a consensus price target of $139.75, suggesting a potential downside of 0.68%. Given IMRIS’s higher probable upside, research analysts plainly believe IMRIS is more favorable than Integer. Summary Integer beats IMRIS on 8 of the 9 factors compared between the two stocks. About IMRIS ( Get Free Report ) IMRIS Inc. designs, manufactures, and sells image-guided therapy solutions worldwide. The company offers VISIUS Surgical Theatres, a surgical environment that provides intraoperative vision to clinicians to assist in decision-making and enhance precision in treatment. Its VISIUS Surgical Theatre incorporates magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and fluoroscopy into multi-purpose surgical suites to provide intraoperative imaging for specific medical applications by bringing advanced imaging into the operating room (OR). The company sells the VISIUS Surgical Theatres to hospitals that deliver clinical services to patients in the neurosurgical, spinal, cerebrovascular, and cardiovascular markets. It also provides service and extended maintenance contracts, and accessories and disposables. The company was founded in 2005 and is based in Winnipeg, Canada. About Integer ( Get Free Report ) Integer Holdings Corporation operates as a medical device outsource manufacturer in the United States, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, and internationally. It operates through two segments, Medical and Non-Medical. The company offers products for interventional cardiology, structural heart, heart failure, peripheral vascular, neurovascular, interventional oncology, electrophysiology, vascular access, infusion therapy, hemodialysis, non-vascular, urology, and gastroenterology procedures. It also provides cardiac rhythm management products, including implantable pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators, insertable cardiac monitors, implantable cardiac pacing and defibrillation leads, and heart failure therapies; neuromodulation products, such as implantable spinal cord stimulators; and non-rechargeable batteries, feedthroughs, device enclosures, machined components, and lead components and sub-assemblies. In addition, the company offers rechargeable batteries and chargers; and arthroscopic, laparoscopic, and general surgery devices and components, such as harmonic scalpels, shaver blades, burr shavers, radio frequency probes, biopsy probes, trocars, electrocautery components, wound dressings, GERD treatment components, and phacoemulsification needles. Further, it provides orthopedic products that include instruments used in hip, knee, and spine surgeries, as well as reamers and chisels. Additionally, the company offers customized battery power and power management systems, and battery solutions for the energy, military, and environmental markets. Furthermore, the company provides medical technologies. It serves multi-national original equipment manufacturers and their affiliated subsidiaries in the cardiac rhythm management, neuromodulation, orthopedics, vascular, and advanced surgical and portable medical markets. Integer Holdings Corporation was founded in 1970 and is headquartered in Plano, Texas. Receive News & Ratings for IMRIS Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for IMRIS and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

HIGH POINT 81, PFEIFFER 50The outcome of elections can shape policies and decisions for years to come, and it's no exception in the U.S. Following Donald Trump's election as the 47th president of the United States and Republicans gaining control of the Senate and the House of Representatives, some companies and industries could potentially benefit from the change in administration at the national level. Others, not so much. One industry that potentially stands to lose is the cannabis market. And as one of the leaders in this space, Tilray Brands ' ( TLRY 2.29% ) prospects could take a hit. Tilray is banking on legalization The cannabis industry has faced significant challenges since Canada legalized recreational use of marijuana in 2018, from fierce competition to stringent rules to operate in the sector. Companies in this space have, by and large, performed terribly. Tilray is no different. The company's revenue and earnings -- or lack thereof -- have been inconsistent at best. TLRY Revenue (Quarterly) data by YCharts . And to the extent that Tilray's top line increased at a good pace in some quarters, much of it was due to acquisitions. That's why the company decided to diversify away from its Canadian cannabis operations, notably entering the beverages market. Thanks to a series of acquisitions, Tilray is now the fifth-largest craft brewer in the U.S. The company hopes to eventually combine these two markets if cannabis legalization happens at the federal level in the U.S. In fact, Tilray's CEO, Irwin Simon, said, "Upon legalization [in the U.S.] one day, we will infuse these drinks with THC, with CBD, but we'll have the distribution, and we'll have the brands when and if legalization does happen." There could be a lot of money to be made here, but not anytime soon. States reject legalization measures On election night, three states had the opportunity to legalize adult recreational marijuana use: Florida, North Dakota, and South Dakota. All three states rejected the measure. For what it's worth, voters in Nebraska voted in favor of legalizing pot for medical use, but that's cold comfort for Tilray and its peers. Individual states rejecting the opportunity to legalize recreational cannabis won't matter even if the substance wins at the federal level. But that now seems less likely to happen in the near future. Florida, North Dakota, and South Dakota all voted red during the election. This highlights an important point: Republicans are less likely to support legalization. A Gallup poll conducted last year found that 55% of Republicans are in favor. The national average is 70%. Among Democrats, it's 87%. In fairness, President-elect Trump, a resident of Florida, said he would support legalization in his state. However, he has also opined that it should be a state issue, which means he wouldn't necessarily support a federal law to that effect. Tilray Brands isn't worth the trouble Tilray's prospects don't rely solely on the U.S. market. The company has made progress in Germany, for instance. However, the U.S. space is the most lucrative, and the cannabis grower's plans in the country aren't looking so good now. Where does that leave Tilray? Most likely worse off than it was before the election, and things were already bad. Don't expect Tilray to bounce back from the struggles it has faced in recent years. The company's financial results will most likely remain unimpressive. Stock market performance should follow the same path. In short, Tilray isn't an attractive stock pick right now. Investors should stay a safe distance away.

Information Analysis Holds Annual Meeting with Positive Voting Results1 2 Hyderabad: Health minister Damodar Raja Narasimha on Monday said the govt would resolve disparities in detention policy , syllabus and credit system for engineering courses followed by Osmania University, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Hyderabad (JNTUH) and autonomous engineering colleges in the state. Speaking in the assembly during question hour, the minister said a meeting would be called at the earliest with university authorities, managements, and students to resolve these issues. "The govt understands that different syllabi are being followed for engineering courses in OU, JNTUH and autonomous colleges. The same is the case with the credit system for subjects—theory, labs, and projects, advanced supplementary exams, readmissions, among other things," he said. Issue of credits Responding to the questions raised by AIMIM floor leader Akbaruddin Owaisi, he said that a special committee would be formed to look into functioning of autonomous engineering colleges. Akbaruddin, who sought clarification from the govt, questioned how was it fair to have different detention policies for the same course. "A student is promoted to the next year under JNTUH if he/she secures 25% of total marks or credits. However, at OU they need a minimum of 50% credits to get promoted. When it comes to autonomous colleges, they are passing everyone irrespective of whether a student is writing anything in an exam or not," he said. He also questioned the logic behind not allowing a student who is detained. "How will a student clear papers and get promoted if he cannot come to college," he questioned and pointed out that detained students were also losing out on fee reimbursement as they need to pay the full fee once again during the time of readmission. Akbaruddin requested the govt to exempt students from detention at least for this year to protect their careers and future. "Bring in uniform rules to decrease dropout rate and safeguard interests of students," he added. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , and Mini Crossword .Unselfish Grizzlies carry 5-game win streak into clash vs. Pacers

Timothy Stonehocker Sells 34,407 Shares of SoundHound AI, Inc. (NASDAQ:SOUN) Stock

( MENAFN - GetNews) "Actuators Market"The Global Actuators market is poised to grow from $67.7 billion in 2024 to $94.8 billion by 2029, with a CAGR of 7.0%. According to a research report " Actuators Market by Actuation (Electric, Hydraulic, Pneumatic), Application (Industrial Automation, Robotics, Vehicle Equipment), Type (Linear Actuator, Rotary Actuator), Vertical (FnB, Oil & Gas, Mining) and Region - Global Forecast to 2029 " The Actuators Industry is estimated at USD 67.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 94.8 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 7.0 % from 2024 to 2029. The growth can be attributed to growing industrial automation and use of robots in various sectors like manufacturing and transportation, Developments in areas like sensor technology, connectivity, and control systems, The increasing demand for actuators is fueled by the expansion of sectors like healthcare (medical devices), oil & gas, and aerospace & defense, and The need for improved process control, energy efficiency, and safety regulations in various industries. Download PDF Brochure @ Browse 279 market data Tables and 67 Figures spread through 340 Pages and in-depth TOC on "Actuators Industry by Actuation (Electric, Hydraulic, Pneumatic), Application (Industrial Automation, Robotics, Vehicle Equipment), Type (Linear Actuator, Rotary Actuator), Vertical (FnB, Oil & Gas, Mining) and Region - Global Forecast to 2029" View detailed Table of Content here - The Electric segment held the largest growth rate in the Actuators industry by actuation. By actuation, the Actuators industry has been segmented into electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, and others. electric Segment to hold the highest growth rate during the forecast period. Electrical actuators use electricity to produce motion. These actuators can be further classified into solenoid actuators and motor-driven actuators. A solenoid used in an electric actuator works on the principle of electromagnetism. Electrical actuators provide control and acceleration at higher speeds. The force for applying thrust can be managed without the requirement for compressed air and the related infrastructure, and hence the total energy consumption in these actuators is lower. Electrical actuators can be used for various applications where linear as well as rotary actuation is required. They can be used for low torque as well as high torque requirements. The vehicle equipment segment is expected to account for the largest share of Actuators by application in 2024. By application, the Actuators industry is segmented into industrial automation, robotics, and vehicle equipment. The vehicles and equipment segment includes actuators used in automotive, aircraft, ships, and defense vehicles. These can be either hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, or mechanical actuators. Actuators are widely used in various systems and sub-systems of an automobile, aircraft, ships as well as defense vehicles. Asia Pacific accounts for the largest market share in 2024. The Actuators industry has been studied in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Rest of the World. The Asia Pacific region accounts for the largest market share in 2024 as well as throughout the forecast period due to the increasing demand for actuators in the region to enhance the growth of the market. India is expected to show the highest growth rate in Asia Pacific Region for Actuators industry. Major players operating in the Actuators industry are SMC Corporation (Japan), Rockwell Automation (US), Curtiss-wright Corporation (US), ABB Ltd (Switzerland), and Parker Hennifin Corporation (US). MENAFN16122024003238003268ID1108999905 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.

Gap stock rallies on better forecast, as holiday shopping ‘off to a strong start’It looked like a recipe for disaster. So, when his country's swimmers were being accused of doping earlier this year, one Chinese official cooked up something fast. He blamed it on contaminated noodles. In fact, he argued, it could have been a culinary conspiracy concocted by criminals, whose actions led to the cooking wine used to prepare the noodles being laced with a banned heart drug that found its way into an athlete's system. This theory was spelled out to international anti-doping officials during a meeting and, after weeks of wrangling, finally made it into the thousands of pages of data handed over to the lawyer who investigated the case involving 23 Chinese swimmers who had tested positive for that same drug. The attorney, appointed by the World Anti-Doping Agency, refused to consider that scenario as he sifted through the evidence. In spelling out his reasoning, lawyer Eric Cottier paid heed to the half-baked nature of the theory. "The Investigator considers this scenario, which he has described in the conditional tense, to be possible, no less, no more," Cottier wrote. Even without the contaminated-noodles theory, Cottier found problems with the way WADA and the Chinese handled the case but ultimately determined WADA had acted reasonably in not appealing China's conclusion that its athletes had been inadvertently contaminated. Critics of the way the China case was handled can't help but wonder if a wider exploration of the noodle theory, details of which were discovered by The Associated Press via notes and emails from after the meeting where it was delivered, might have lent a different flavor to Cottier's conclusions. "There are more story twists to the ways the Chinese explain the TMZ case than a James Bond movie," said Rob Koehler, the director general of the advocacy group Global Athlete. "And all of it is complete fiction." In April, reporting from the New York Times and the German broadcaster ARD revealed that the 23 Chinese swimmers had tested positive for the banned heart medication trimetazidine, also known as TMZ. China's anti-doping agency determined the athletes had been contaminated, and so, did not sanction them. WADA accepted that explanation, did not press the case further, and China was never made to deliver a public notice about the "no-fault findings," as is often seen in similar cases. The stock explanation for the contamination was that traces of TMZ were found in the kitchen of a hotel where the swimmers were staying. In his 58-page report, Cottier relayed some suspicions about the feasibility of that chain of events — noting that WADA's chief scientist "saw no other solution than to accept it, even if he continued to have doubts about the reality of contamination as described by the Chinese authorities." But without evidence to support pursuing the case, and with the chance of winning an appeal at almost nil, Cottier determined WADA's "decision not to appeal appears indisputably reasonable." A mystery remained: How did those traces of TMZ get into the kitchen? Shortly after the doping positives were revealed, the Institute of National Anti-Doping Organizations held a meeting on April 30 where it heard from the leader of China's agency, Li Zhiquan. Li's presentation was mostly filled with the same talking points that have been delivered throughout the saga — that the positive tests resulted from contamination from the kitchen. But he expanded on one way the kitchen might have become contaminated, harkening to another case in China involving a low-level TMZ positive. A pharmaceutical factory, he explained, had used industrial alcohol in the distillation process for producing TMZ. The industrial alcohol laced with the drug "then entered the market through illegal channels," he said. The alcohol "was re-used by the perpetrators to process and produce cooking wine, which is an important seasoning used locally to make beef noodles," Li said. "The contaminated beef noodles were consumed by that athlete, resulting in an extremely low concentration of TMZ in the positive sample. "The wrongdoers involved have been brought to justice." This new information raised eyebrows among the anti-doping leaders listening to Li's report. So much so that over the next month, several emails ensued to make sure the details about the noodles and wine made their way to WADA lawyers, who could then pass it onto Cottier. Eventually, Li did pass on the information to WADA general counsel Ross Wenzel and, just to be sure, one of the anti-doping leaders forwarded it, as well, according to the emails seen by the AP. All this came with Li's request that the noodles story be kept confidential. Turns out, it made it into Cottier's report, though he took the information with a grain of salt. "Indeed, giving it more attention would have required it to be documented, then scientifically verified and validated," he wrote. Neither Wenzel nor officials at the Chinese anti-doping agency returned messages from AP asking about the noodles conspiracy and the other athlete who Li suggested had been contaminated by them. Meanwhile, 11 of the swimmers who originally tested positive competed at the Paris Games earlier this year in a meet held under the cloud of the Chinese doping case. Though WADA considers the case closed, Koehler and others point to situations like this as one of many reasons that an investigation by someone other than Cottier, who was hired by WADA, is still needed. "It gives the appearance that people are just making things up as they go along on this, and hoping the story just goes away," Koehler said. "Which clearly it has not." 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Middle East latest: Israeli strikes kill a hospital director in Lebanon and wound 9 medics in GazaWeek 17 NFL Picks: Vikings face Packers looking to stay alive for NFC's top seedNew Advancements in Monopolar RF, IPL and Aqua-dermabrasion Facials Fill a Void in the Marketplace MELVILLE, N.Y. , Dec. 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- At October's Inner Circle Invitational in Boca Raton , Cartessa Aesthetics introduced three new technologies to the nearly 400 aesthetic providers in attendance. The third annual exclusive event is an opportunity for Cartessa to give providers first-looks at new products, advanced trainings and business best-practices. In the spotlight this year were three unique devices – Everesse, Prisma, and SKNLAB - offering practitioners new modality combinations, more comfortable treatments and opportunities to expedite revenue. Everesse is a new entrant in the Monopolar RF space that overcomes the shortcomings of legacy technologies, namely patient discomfort. The new 6.78MHz Monopolar RF device, manufactured by South Korean company Classys, has several design features that make it more comfortable for lifting and tightening of the skin. Prisma is the first IPL plus electro-muscle stimulation (EMS) and radiofrequency (RF) technology, and it's also the first IPL system that Cartessa has selected for its portfolio. Manufactured by DEKA, Prisma offers the best in IPL advancements and the ability to go beyond discoloration to treat the other leading signs of aging, inelasticity and reduction in muscle tone. "While we know IPL is a cornerstone treatment for our providers, we waited for a device that offered the absolute best in IPL versatility and comfort. PRISMA met our standards and with the added modalities, is positioned to redefine 'photofacials' as the market knows them," shared Gabe Lubin , Cartessa Founder and CEO. Lastly, with the introduction of SKNLAB , Cartessa is filling a void in aqua-dermabrasion space for those providers interested in integrating energy modalities into their non-invasive facial protocols. SKNLAB offers aqua-delivery of paraceutical solutions plus five energy modalities. Practitioners can easily customize treatments based on patient need using SKNLAB's pre-programmed, comprehensive facial matrices or leverage the various handpieces a la carte. Cartessa's adaptive business model makes it possible to launch the volume of products it has in 2024. "I don't know of another aesthetic company that can continue to introduce new technologies at this rate," added Lubin. "Seeing the response to these devices on their own and in combination with other technologies is extremely exciting. We know we are giving our customers something unique to elevate their patients' outcomes and propel their businesses forward – we plan to continue to do so as long as we are presented with breakthrough innovations." For those providers looking to add Everesse, Prisma or SKNLAB to their practice or wanting to learn more, please reach out to a Cartessa representative. Now is a great time to take advantage of end-of-year tax incentives and treat patients to something new in 2025. About Cartessa Aesthetics: Cartessa Aesthetics is a leading North American aesthetic company focused on cutting-edge technology and industry leading customer support. Thanks to an independent business model and established relationships with top global manufacturers, Cartessa's product portfolio offers true competitive advantages for practices and patients across every aesthetics category. Customers benefit from expertly vetted devices and end-to-end support to maximize the clinical outcomes and returns of their investment. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cartessa-aesthetics-introduces-three-new-technologies-to-give-providers-a-head-start-for-2025-302323109.html SOURCE Cartessa Aesthetics

Blame it on the food and drink?

[Source: Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection - Fiji/ Facebook] For the first time, women from the villages of Nuku, Cakova, Keteira and Maloku met in Naroi, Moala, for a Women’s Mini Craft Show, organized by the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection. The event, which aimed to promote creativity and economic empowerment, showcased a wide range of handmade products, including fine mats, iTaukei clothing including sulu and jaba, and fresh vegetables. The show provided a platform for the women to display their talents and express their entrepreneurial spirit. The event was more than just an exhibition; it offered participants the opportunity to exchange ideas, learn new skills and to strengthen their networks. The diverse array of products, from traditional Fijian garments to unique handmade crafts and locally grown produce, showcased the resourcefulness and creativity of rural women who often face limited access to larger markets. President of the Maloku Women’s Group, Kalo Leba, described how the women of Maloku had prepared for the event by waking up early, organizing their families and making their way to Naroi to showcase their handicrafts. The Maloku Women’s Group presented a range of products including fashionable sulu and jaba and honey, marking an opportunity to generate income and gain recognition for their hard work.Mississippi State overcomes early deficit to down Prairie View A&M

Blame it on the food and drink?A 33-year-old man has lodged a complaint with the police stating that he was extorted by loan sharks despite repaying the loan amount he had taken from a couple of apps. According to the police, the complainant is a resident of Pen, Raigad and works in a private company. A few months ago, he had taken Rs 10000 from an instant loan app and then from another loan app he took Rs24000. The complainant had timely re-paid both these loans. However, last month, he received a phone call from an unknown person who asked the complainant to pay back the money. The scammers also shared the complainant’s phone contact list with him on WhatsApp and threatened him that they would call everyone in his contact list if he did not pay them the money. They also morphed photographs of some people from the man’s contact list and threatened to make those photographs viral if the complainant refused to pay the money. On November 14, out of fear, the victim transferred Rs 18,900 in six online transactions to the scammers. However, when the scammers kept demanding more money the complainant approached the police and got an offence registered. A case has been registered under sections 351 (criminal intimidation), 318 (cheating) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and 66D (cheating by personation by using computer resource) of the Information Technology Act. The complainant has also shared details of the fraudulent loan apps and the contact details of the scammers with the police.

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In politics, friendships are often superficial and only last as long as they have utility. Once they are no longer deemed beneficial, they can dissipate into the ether. That’s the transactional nature of the political world, but after spending many years working in politics, I can tell you not everyone falls into this vicious cycle. Former state Senator and Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson was different. Bruce was my friend, and he sadly passed away days before Thanksgiving after a hard-fought battle with cancer. He left behind a family and a host of friends who will forever remember him and his indelible imprint on the Peach State. If the measure of a man is his legacy, then Bruce has reason to be proud. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. Get news alerts and breaking news stories from the Albany Herald delivered to your email.

Internet of Things (IoT) Operating Systems Market to Exhibit a Remarkable CAGR of 40.40% by 2031, Size, Share, Trends, Key Drivers, Demand, Opportunity Analysis and Competitive Outlook 12-04-2024 10:15 PM CET | Advertising, Media Consulting, Marketing Research Press release from: Data Bridge Market Research Global Internet of Things (IoT) Operating Systems Market size was valued at USD 1.10 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 16.71 billion by 2031, with a CAGR of 40.40% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2031. The Internet of Things (IoT) is an operating system that collects data from a device or object using sensors, software, and other technologies. It then connects and delivers it to other devices or objects via the internet. IoT systems have applications in various industries due to their unique flexibility and ability to work in any environment and improve data collection, automation, and operations through smart devices and powerful enabling technology. Browse More About This Research Report @ https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/global-internet-things-iot-operating-systems-market Some of the major players operating in the internet of things (iot) operating systems market are Google LLC (U.S.), Apple Inc. (U.S.), eSOL (Japan), BlackBerry Limited (Canada), ARM Ltd. (U.K.), WITTENSTEIN SE (Germany), ENEA AB (Sweden), Siemens (Germany), Green Hills Software (U.S.), SYSGO GmbH (Germany), Microsoft (U.S.), Wind River Systems, Inc. (U.S.), Silicon Laboratories. (U.S.), AO Kaspersky Lab. (Russia), Canonical Ltd. (U.K.) among others. Internet of Things (IoT) Operating Systems Market Share : The internet of things (IoT) operating systems market competitive landscape provides details by competitor. details included are company overview, company financials, revenue generated, market potential, investment in research and development, new market initiatives, Global presence, production sites and facilities, production capacities, company strengths and weaknesses, product launch, product width and breadth, application dominance. The above data points provided are only related to the companies' focus related to internet of things (IoT) operating systems market. Browse Trending Reports: https://dbmr064rs.blogspot.com/2024/12/ashwagandha-market-trends-forecast-and.html https://dbmr03.blogspot.com/2024/12/automotive-laminated-glass-market-size.html https://dbmr03.blogspot.com/2024/12/specialty-polystyrene-resin-market-size.html https://dbmr064rs.blogspot.com/2024/12/nylon-market-trends-forecast-and.html About Data Bridge Market Research: An absolute way to predict what the future holds is to understand the current trend! Data Bridge Market Research presented itself as an unconventional and neoteric market research and consulting firm with an unparalleled level of resilience and integrated approaches. We are committed to uncovering the best market opportunities and nurturing effective information for your business to thrive in the marketplace. Data Bridge strives to provide appropriate solutions to complex business challenges and initiates an effortless decision-making process. Data Bridge is a set of pure wisdom and experience that was formulated and framed in 2015 in Pune. Contact Us: - Data Bridge Market Research US: +1 614 591 3140 UK: +44 845 154 9652 APAC: +653 1251 1177 Email: - sopan.gedam@databridgemarketresearch.com This release was published on openPR.Revolutionary AI Technology Set to Transform Audio Creation

Middle East latest: Israeli strikes kill a hospital director in Lebanon and wound 9 medics in GazaSmith noncommittal on overriding Charter as court challenge looms over trans billsFormer National Party Minister Nikki Kaye dies at 44: Her final speech to Parliament

Trump says he can't guarantee tariffs won't raise prices, won't rule out revenge prosecutions

It looked like a recipe for disaster. So, when his country's swimmers were being accused of doping earlier this year, one Chinese official cooked up something fast. He blamed it on contaminated noodles. In fact, he argued, it could have been a culinary conspiracy concocted by criminals, whose actions led to the cooking wine used to prepare the noodles being laced with a banned heart drug that found its way into an athlete's system. This theory was spelled out to international anti-doping officials during a meeting and, after weeks of wrangling, finally made it into the thousands of pages of data handed over to the lawyer who investigated the case involving 23 Chinese swimmers who had tested positive for that same drug. The attorney, appointed by the World Anti-Doping Agency, refused to consider that scenario as he sifted through the evidence. In spelling out his reasoning, lawyer Eric Cottier paid heed to the half-baked nature of the theory. "The Investigator considers this scenario, which he has described in the conditional tense, to be possible, no less, no more," Cottier wrote. Even without the contaminated-noodles theory, Cottier found problems with the way WADA and the Chinese handled the case but ultimately determined WADA had acted reasonably in not appealing China's conclusion that its athletes had been inadvertently contaminated. Critics of the way the China case was handled can't help but wonder if a wider exploration of the noodle theory, details of which were discovered by The Associated Press via notes and emails from after the meeting where it was delivered, might have lent a different flavor to Cottier's conclusions. "There are more story twists to the ways the Chinese explain the TMZ case than a James Bond movie," said Rob Koehler, the director general of the advocacy group Global Athlete. "And all of it is complete fiction." In April, reporting from the New York Times and the German broadcaster ARD revealed that the 23 Chinese swimmers had tested positive for the banned heart medication trimetazidine, also known as TMZ. China's anti-doping agency determined the athletes had been contaminated, and so, did not sanction them. WADA accepted that explanation, did not press the case further, and China was never made to deliver a public notice about the "no-fault findings," as is often seen in similar cases. The stock explanation for the contamination was that traces of TMZ were found in the kitchen of a hotel where the swimmers were staying. In his 58-page report, Cottier relayed some suspicions about the feasibility of that chain of events — noting that WADA's chief scientist "saw no other solution than to accept it, even if he continued to have doubts about the reality of contamination as described by the Chinese authorities." But without evidence to support pursuing the case, and with the chance of winning an appeal at almost nil, Cottier determined WADA's "decision not to appeal appears indisputably reasonable." A mystery remained: How did those traces of TMZ get into the kitchen? Shortly after the doping positives were revealed, the Institute of National Anti-Doping Organizations held a meeting on April 30 where it heard from the leader of China's agency, Li Zhiquan. Li's presentation was mostly filled with the same talking points that have been delivered throughout the saga — that the positive tests resulted from contamination from the kitchen. But he expanded on one way the kitchen might have become contaminated, harkening to another case in China involving a low-level TMZ positive. A pharmaceutical factory, he explained, had used industrial alcohol in the distillation process for producing TMZ. The industrial alcohol laced with the drug "then entered the market through illegal channels," he said. The alcohol "was re-used by the perpetrators to process and produce cooking wine, which is an important seasoning used locally to make beef noodles," Li said. "The contaminated beef noodles were consumed by that athlete, resulting in an extremely low concentration of TMZ in the positive sample. "The wrongdoers involved have been brought to justice." This new information raised eyebrows among the anti-doping leaders listening to Li's report. So much so that over the next month, several emails ensued to make sure the details about the noodles and wine made their way to WADA lawyers, who could then pass it onto Cottier. Eventually, Li did pass on the information to WADA general counsel Ross Wenzel and, just to be sure, one of the anti-doping leaders forwarded it, as well, according to the emails seen by the AP. All this came with Li's request that the noodles story be kept confidential. Turns out, it made it into Cottier's report, though he took the information with a grain of salt. "Indeed, giving it more attention would have required it to be documented, then scientifically verified and validated," he wrote. Neither Wenzel nor officials at the Chinese anti-doping agency returned messages from AP asking about the noodles conspiracy and the other athlete who Li suggested had been contaminated by them. Meanwhile, 11 of the swimmers who originally tested positive competed at the Paris Games earlier this year in a meet held under the cloud of the Chinese doping case. Though WADA considers the case closed, Koehler and others point to situations like this as one of many reasons that an investigation by someone other than Cottier, who was hired by WADA, is still needed. "It gives the appearance that people are just making things up as they go along on this, and hoping the story just goes away," Koehler said. "Which clearly it has not." Get local news delivered to your inbox!

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Ruud van Nistelrooy enjoys winning start with LeicesterIssa brothers closing in on £13bn New York listing By CITY & FINANCE REPORTER Updated: 21:52, 29 December 2024 e-mail 1 View comments The billionaire Issa brothers are eyeing a £13billion US listing for their petrol station empire, in a fresh snub for London. EG Group could make its market debut next year, in what means a huge payout for Zuber and Mohsin Issa. Banks have been lined up for a float, according to reports in Mergermarket and The Sunday Telegraph. The company could be valued at around £13billion – 13 times last year's annual profits of £1.1billion. Happy days: EG Group could make its market debut next year, in what means a huge payout for Zuber and Mohsin Issa RELATED ARTICLES Previous 1 Next Asda's woes continue as it becomes the only major... Asda hires former boss to revive its fortunes Share this article Share HOW THIS IS MONEY CAN HELP How to choose the best (and cheapest) stocks and shares Isa and the right DIY investing account The New York stock market is thought to be the preferred bourse because the US is EG Group's biggest market. The group operates 1,500 convenience stores on petrol forecourts including brands Cumberland Farms and Quik Stop. DIY INVESTING PLATFORMS AJ Bell AJ Bell Easy investing and ready-made portfolios Learn More Learn More Hargreaves Lansdown Hargreaves Lansdown Free fund dealing and investment ideas Learn More Learn More interactive investor interactive investor Flat-fee investing from £4.99 per month Learn More Learn More Saxo Saxo Get £200 back in trading fees Learn More Learn More Trading 212 Trading 212 Free dealing and no account fee Learn More Learn More Affiliate links: If you take out a product This is Money may earn a commission. These deals are chosen by our editorial team, as we think they are worth highlighting. This does not affect our editorial independence. Compare the best investing account for you Share or comment on this article: Issa brothers closing in on £13bn New York listing e-mail Add comment Some links in this article may be affiliate links. If you click on them we may earn a small commission. That helps us fund This Is Money, and keep it free to use. We do not write articles to promote products. We do not allow any commercial relationship to affect our editorial independence.

A home decorator has shared an interesting video showing the transformation of her family's house In a video, the talented woman showed how she turned the boring-looking living room to look aesthetically pleasing Social media users who came across the video on TikTok stormed the comments section to react to it PAY ATTENTION: Got a Minute? Complete Our Quick Survey About Legit.ng Today! A stunning home makeover has captured the attention of social media users, showing the incredible transformation of a bland living room into a breathtaking space. The talented home decorator took to TikTok to share a captivating video of the renovation of her house. Home decorator shows off stunning transformation The clip posted by @ temishomeandaway revealed the metamorphosis of the room, from a dull and uninviting area to a warm and welcoming oasis. PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Instagram - get the most important news directly in your favourite app! The decorator's skillful touch and keen eye for design were evident throughout the transformation. "We turned our bland and boring new build living room to a room that's aesthetically pleasing. The blank room bothered me so, I gave it a glow up! This was surprisingly easy to achieve by myself," the video's caption read. Read also Nigerian man excited after seeing progress of building project, video goes viral on TikTok Reactions as home decorator flaunts house transformation TikTok users were quick to react to the video, flooding the comments section with praise and admiration for the decorator's handiwork. @Tisha asked: "Where is the sofa from please?" @Apple User446452787 asked: "Omg slaayyy. Why can’t u be this creative?" @Khadeejah said: "Looks so beautiful!! DIY??" @user2772896883301 said: "Beautiful just saved the video for when l buy a house." @Dudurewa said: "Following you right away, this is so breathtaking." @Sydsyd said: "I love the use of colours! Looks fantastic." @a.adedolapo1 said: "Welll done mama. This is beautiful." @Segun Johnson said: "Wow this transformation is massive. Beautiful!!!" @Oyefunke said: "Woooosh beautiful." @OyinBloom said: "This is so lovely." @Tee|Home Content Creator said: "Wow love the transformation." @Lifestylebyseyi said: "Well done. Looks really cozy." @Elynn said: "Came out really beautiful. Well done !" @Everything_Vee said: "Omg this is beautiful." @Mary Chukwu commented: "This is so beautiful." Read also Drama as Nigerian man blasts loud music inside restaurant, video goes viral online @Bola | Content Creator said: "Wow. The transformation haaa." @Vee added: "Too beautiful. I’m spending Christmas in your house." Watch the video below: Lady transforms mother's house Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a Nigerian lady who transformed her mother's house from a lukewarm look to an awesome, beautiful building gained attention online. In the video, the lady showed what the house looked like before she began to paint with her brush. PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU ➡️ find the “Recommended for you” block on the home page and enjoy! Source: Legit.ngSaquon Barkley hits 2K yards, Eagles crush Cowboys to win division

Brian Arteaga Launches Legal Match Experts to Transform Access to Legal Representation 12-13-2024 11:58 PM CET | Politics, Law & Society Press release from: ABNewswire A new platform evolutionizes the legal landscape: connecting clients with the right attorneys. Brian Arteaga, a graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Law and currently pursuing his Juris Doctor degree, is making waves in the legal field with the launch of Legal Match Experts [ https://legallybrilliant.com/ ]. Based in Beverly Hills, California, Legal Match Experts is an innovative consumer-to-attorney platform designed to bridge the gap in the legal marketplace, ensuring individuals from all backgrounds can access the right legal representation. "The legal system can be intimidating and confusing, especially when people unknowingly hire the wrong type of attorney for their specific needs," Arteaga explained. "Legal Match Experts fills this void by matching clients with attorneys who specialize in their unique cases, eliminating costly and time-consuming mistakes." The platform allows users to answer a few basic questions, after which they are matched with one to three attorneys specializing in areas such as family law, bankruptcy, real estate, insurance, intellectual property, criminal law, and more. The platform ensures matches are localized, connecting users with attorneys in their county for added convenience. One standout feature of Legal Match Experts is its translation services, which help overcome language barriers-a common issue in the legal field. "Too often, people prioritize hiring an attorney who speaks their native language over one with the proper specialization, leading to unfavorable outcomes," Arteaga noted. "We eliminate this issue by pairing clients with attorneys who meet both their linguistic and legal needs." Using the platform is simple, accessible, and entirely free for consumers. Users can interview their matched attorneys and proceed only if they feel comfortable. "There's no cost to be matched, and no obligation to hire. It's a risk-free way to find the best legal help," Arteaga emphasized. Arteaga's vision is deeply rooted in his own journey and commitment to making a difference. With plans to take the California Bar Exam next fall and specialize in intellectual property law, he aspires to become a full-time attorney dedicated to providing exceptional legal solutions. "Everyone deserves access to quality legal representation without unnecessary obstacles," said Arteaga. "Our platform empowers individuals to make informed decisions, saving them time, money, and stress." Legal Match Experts can be accessed nationwide through LegallyBrilliant.com [ https://legallybrilliant.com/ ]. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive approach, the platform is set to revolutionize how people find legal representation. Media Contact Company Name: Legal Match Experts Contact Person: Brian Arteaga, Founder Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=brian-arteaga-launches-legal-match-experts-to-transform-access-to-legal-representation ] Country: United States Website: https://legallybrilliant.com This release was published on openPR.Wayne Christian Rustad, 80, of Austin, Minnesota passed away Thursday, December 26, 2024 at the Cedars of Austin with family at his side. Wayne was born on January 11, 1944 in Rushford, Minnesota to Clifford & Dora (Torgerson) Rustad. He grew up on farms in the Rushford area, and was baptized and confirmed at Highland Prairie Lutheran Church. He graduated from Rushford High School in 1962 and from Winona State College in 1965 with a degree in elementary education. Later he earned a master’s degree. He taught for two years in Preston, Minnesota before moving to Austin where he continued to teach until his retirement in 2000. In 1969 he met a fellow teacher, Geraldine (Gerry) Carlstrom, and they were married in 1970 in Red Wing, Minnesota. Through the years Wayne was active in church activities and with Hot Meals on Wheels where he served as president and driver coordinator in addition to delivering meals. Wayne also worked as a crop hail adjuster for Farmers Mutual Hail Insurance of Iowa for many summers. He especially loved golfing, and enjoyed canoeing in the Boundary Waters, deer hunting, listening to music, and reading books by his favorite authors. He faithfully read the Star Tribune newspaper every day. He took up coin collecting as a hobby after he retired. His lifetime achievement was getting two holes in one playing golf with friends. He loved to tell stories, was proud of his Rushford roots, and loved his family. Once Gerry retired in 2003, they began spending parts of every winter in Apache Junction, Arizona where his favorite activities were golfing, hiking, and playing games and going out to eat with friends. Wayne is survived by his wife of 54 years, Gerry; daughter, Laura (Chad) Sayles; two granddaughters, Natalie (Nick) Baier and Emily (Trent) Brown; two great grandchildren, Bennett and Chloe Baier. Also surviving are two brothers, Dale Rustad and Rick (Shirley) Rustad; brother-in-law, Charles Ruen; and many nieces and nephews. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Dora; his sister, Gloria Ruen; daughter, Susan Beth, who died at 15 months of age; and two sisters-in-law, Becky Rustad and Lesy Rustad. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Austin, with the Reverend Dr. Kristen Venne officiating. Visitation will be held at 9:30 am Thursday until the time of the service. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery, Austin. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his honor may be sent to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Austin; Hot Meals on Wheels, Austin; or donor’s choice. Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — “My Driver and I” was supposed to be made in 2016, but was scuttled amid Saudi Arabia's decades-long cinema ban. Eight years later, the landscape for film in the kingdom looks much different — and the star of “My Driver and I” now has an award. Roula Dakheelallah was named the winner of the Chopard Emerging Saudi Talent award at the Red Sea International Film Festival on Thursday. The award — and the glitzy festival itself — is a sign of Saudi Arabia's commitment to shaping a new film industry. “My heart is attached to cinema and art; I have always dreamed of a moment like this,” Dakheelallah, who still works a 9-5 job, told The Associated Press before the awards ceremony. “I used to work in voluntary films and help my friends in the field, but this is my first big role in a film.” The reopening of cinemas in 2018 marked a cultural turning point for Saudi Arabia, an absolute monarchy that had instituted the ban 35 years before, under the influence of ultraconservative religious authorities. It has since invested heavily in a native film industry by building theaters and launching programs to support local filmmakers through grants and training. The Red Sea International Film Festival was launched just a year later, part of an attempt to expand Saudi influence into films, gaming, sports and other cultural fields. Activists have decried the investments as whitewashing the kingdom’s human rights record as it tightly controls speech and remains one of the world’s top executioners. With FIFA awarding the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia this week, Lina al-Hathloul, a Saudi activist with the London-based rights group ALQST, said Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman “has really managed to create this bubble where people only see entertainment and they don’t see the reality on the ground.” These efforts are part of Vision 2030, an ambitious reform plan unveiled in 2016 to ease the economy's dependence on oil. As part of it, Saudi Arabia plans to construct 350 cinemas with over 2,500 movie screens — by this past April, across 22 cities, it already had 66 cinemas showing movies from the local film industry, as well as Hollywood and Bollywood. (The Red Sea International Film Festival attracts a host of talent from the latter industries, with Viola Davis and Priyanka Chopra Jonas also picking up awards Thursday.) The country's General Entertainment Authority last month opened Al Hisn Studios on the outskirts of Riyadh. As one of the largest such production hubs in the Middle East, it not only includes several film studios but also a production village with workshops for carpentry, blacksmithing and fashion tailoring. “These facilities, when they exist, will stimulate filmmakers,” said Saudi actor Mohammed Elshehri. “Today, no writer or director has an excuse to imagine and say, ‘I cannot implement my imagination.’” The facilities are one part of the equation — the content itself is another. One of the major players in transforming Saudi filmmaking has been Telfaz11, a media company founded in 2011 that began as a YouTube channel and quickly became a trailblazer. Producing high-quality digital content such as short films, comedy sketches and series, Telfaz11 offered fresh perspectives on Saudi and regional issues. In 2020, Telfaz11 signed a partnership with Netflix to produce original content for the streaming giant. The result has been movies that demonstrate an evolution on the storytelling level, tackling topics that were once off-limits and sensitive to the public like secret nightlife in “Mandoob” (“Night Courier”) and changing social norms in “Naga.” “I think we tell our stories in a very simple way, and that’s what reaches the world,” Elshehri says of the changing shift. “When you tell your story in a natural way without any affectation, it will reach every person.” But the films were not without their critics, drawing mixed reaction. Social media discoursed ranged from pleasure that Saudi film were tackling such topics to anger over how the films reflected conservative society. As Hana Al-Omair, a Saudi writer and director, points out, there are still many stories left untold. “We certainly have a long time ahead of us before we can tell the Saudi narrative as it should be,” she said, acknowledging that there are still barriers and rampant censorship. “The Goat Life,” a Malayalam-language movie about an Indian man forced to work without pay in Saudi Arabia, is not available on Netflix's platform in the country. Movies that explore political topics or LGBTQ+ stories are essentially out of the question. Even “My Driver and I,” featured at the Red Sea festival alongside 11 other Saudi feature-length films, was initially too controversial. It centers on a Sudanese man in Jeddah, living away from his own daughter, who feels responsible for the girl he drives as her parents are absent. It was initially blocked from being made because of the relationship between the girl and the driver, filmmaker Ahd Kamel has said, even though it's not a romantic relationship. Now in 2024, the film is a success story — a symbol of the Saudi film industry's evolution as well as the growing role of women like Kamel behind the camera and Dakheelallah in front of it. “I see the change in Saudi cinema, a very beautiful change and it is moving at a wonderful speed. In my opinion, we do not need to rush,” Dakheelallah said. “We need to guide the truth of the artistic movement that is happening in Saudi Arabia.” Baraa Anwer, The Associated PressJanux Therapeutics Announces Proposed Public OfferingRight-wing wraith Laura Ingraham took some time away from attacking teachers to beg pop star Taylor Swift to perform at Donald Trump’s inauguration. “Call Trump and offer to perform at the inauguration,” Ingraham said during her Fox News show Thursday night, in “advice” directed toward Swift. “It'd be smart for Taylor Swift—and another great moment of unity for the country.” x x YouTube Video Ingraham didn’t elaborate on what she meant by “smart.” It could be read either as a threat or as a smart business move for Swift, whose Eras Tour just completed its historically successful run . Ingraham, who has mocked Swift’s political affiliations in the past , seems thirsty to have an inaugural performer more exciting than GOP mainstay and overpriced-Bible salesman Lee Greenwood or post-grunge afterthought 3 Doors Down . Trump’s anemic 2017 inaugural lineup was ... lackluster, to say the least. But maybe Ingraham has forgotten those big acts , like Utah’s The Piano Guys and ‘90s country group The Frontmen of Country . Toby Keith , who also performed at the 2017 inauguration, died earlier this year . Ingraham’s sweaty plea to Swift isn’t surprising. The pop megastar has been an obsession of Trump and the right for some time. They have weaved conspiracy theories such as Swift being a “deep-state” psychological operation meant to destroy Trump. When Swift endorsed Harris in this year’s presidential election, the right freaked out about it. For all of their culture-war BS, it seems very clear that the right wishes that any of the most popular cultural music icons of the past 60 years were willing to be paid off to like them. From Fleetwood Mac to Beyoncé , from Springsteen to Bad Bunny, megastars past and present have almost never backed Republicans. And Trump has made that distinction all the clearer . But don’t worry, Laura, you always have Kid Rock and Ted Nugent ! Daily Kos is now on Bluesky—and we want to make it easy for you to join us! Click here for the Daily Kos Bluesky Starter Pack.

200km of Russian forest couldn’t keep these two tigers apartThe 39-year-old has been a breath of fresh air since succeeding Erik ten Hag, with his personality and approach, coupled with promising early performances, bringing hope back to Old Trafford. Amorim has been touched by his warm welcome but repeatedly urged fans to avoid jumping the gun, having followed a draw at Ipswich with home wins against Bodo/Glimt and Everton. Wednesday’s trip to Arsenal is comfortably his biggest challenge yet and victory would see United move within three points of the Premier League title contenders. Put to Amorim it will be hard to manage expectations if they won in the capital, the head coach said: “I would like to say different things, but I have to say it again: the storm will come. “I don’t know if you use that expression, but we are going to have difficult moments and we will be found out in some games. “And I know that because I’m knowing my players and I know football and I follow football, so I understand the difference between the teams. “We are in the point in that we are putting simple things in the team, without training, and you feel it in this game against Everton, they change a little bit the way they were building up. “They are very good team, and we were with a lot of problems because we cannot change it by calling one thing to the captain. “So, we don’t have this training, so let’s focus on each game, on the performance, what we have to improve, trying to win games. And that is the focus. “I know it’s really hard to be a Manchester United coach and say these things in press conferences. We want to win all the time. No matter what. “We are going to try to win, but we know that we are in a different point if you compare to Arsenal. “So, it is what it is and we will try to win it and we go with confidence to win, but we know that we need to play very well to win the next football match.” The trip to Arsenal is the second of nine December matches for United, who are looking to avoid suffering four straight league defeats to the Gunners for the first time. The Red Devils have not won a Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium since 2017, but Amorim knows a thing or two about frustrating Mikel Arteta’s men. Arsenal thrashed Sporting Lisbon 5-1 in the Champions League last week, but in 2022-23 he led the Portuguese side to a Europa League last-16 penalty triumph after a 1-1 draw in London made it 3-3 on aggregate. “Arsenal this year, they play a little bit different,” Amorim said. “They are more fluid. “For example, two years ago when we faced them with Sporting, you knew how to press because you can understand better the structure. “Now it’s more fluid with (Riccardo) Calafiori and (Jurrien) Timber in different sides. One coming inside, the other going outside. Also (Martin) Odegaard changed the team, and you can feel it during this season. “So, you can take something from that game, especially because I know so well the opponent so you can understand the weakness of that team. “But every game is different, so you take something, but you already know that you are going to face a very good team.” This hectic winter schedule means Amorim sidestepped talk of January transfer business ahead of facing Arsenal, although he was more forthcoming on Amad Diallo’s future. The 22-year-old, who put in a man of the match display in Sunday’s 4-0 win against Everton, is out of contract at the end of the season, although the club holds an option to extend by a year. Diallo has repeatedly spoken of his desire to stay at United and it has been reported an agreement is close. Amorim said: “I think he wants to stay, and we want him to stay. So that is clear and we will find a solution.”

President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to impose new tariffs on Chinese imports when he takes office, a move that could deepen a trade war he initiated six years ago. He has not provided many specifics, but China is already preparing for economic battle. "Six years of really intense, focused preparatory work has gotten the top leaders in Beijing ready to deal with whatever comes down the pike," said Even Pay, an analyst with research firm Trivium China. Here’s a look at how the showdown between the world’s two largest economies unfolded during Trump’s previous term and where it might head now. What happened during Trump's first term? Trump initiated a trade war in 2018 by imposing 25% tariffs on Chinese imports, including industrial machinery, cars, auto parts and television cameras. These goods accounted for about $50 billion of the $540 billion the United States spent on Chinese-made products that year. The goal was to spur U.S. manufacturing, reduce the trade imbalance and penalize China for what Trump deemed unfair trade practices. In 2018, China imported only $120 billion in U.S. goods. China retaliated with its own 25% tariffs on about $50 billion worth of U.S. goods. Despite trade talks over the next year, both nations continued to escalate tariffs. By 2020, tariffs covered $550 billion in Chinese goods and $185 billion in U.S. goods. Experts said the trade war failed to significantly reduce the U.S. trade deficit or boost U.S. exports. Instead, it weighed on economic growth and cost jobs in both the U.S. and China. In Trump’s final year, the two nations agreed to a truce, signing a trade deal that removed some tariffs and reduced others. China also pledged to purchase an additional $200 billion in U.S. goods and services - a commitment it did not meet. Did things cool off after President Biden took office? Not entirely. While the rhetoric from the White House became less combative, getting tough on China had become a political imperative for any president, and the trade war only intensified. Biden retained the Trump-era tariffs and introduced additional measures, including a 100% tax on Chinese electric car imports, a 50% tax on solar panels and a 25% tax on lithium-ion batteries and steel and aluminum products. He also continued Trump’s use of export bans to restrict China’s access to U.S. technology. Last week, the U.S. expanded its restrictions on semiconductor sales and related manufacturing equipment to China, adding 140 Chinese entities to a blacklist that limits their ability to trade with U.S. businesses on national security grounds. What might Trump do this time? For months, Trump has advocated raising tariffs on Chinese imports by 60% or more. Last month, he stated on social media that he would impose a 10% tariff, "above any additional tariffs," on all products from China. Trump’s motivations extend beyond trade or boosting U.S. manufacturing. He has also suggested using tariffs to pressure China - and Mexico - to take greater action in curbing the U.S. opioid crisis. Both countries are leading sources of fentanyl and its precursor chemicals. How is China preparing for more tariffs? China has already taken steps to mitigate potential damage. The country, which typically purchases corn, soybeans and sorghum from the U.S., has diversified its sources and increased stockpiles. Brazil has emerged as a significant beneficiary of this shift, potentially impacting U.S. farmers, who send about 77% of their sorghum exports to China. China is more vulnerable to tariffs than the U.S., largely because it exports much more than it imports. The current economic situation in China exacerbates its challenges. Growth has stalled amid a real estate downturn, mounting debt, rising youth unemployment and sluggish consumer spending. Larry Hu, chief China economist at Macquarie Group, estimated that a 60% tariff hike from the U.S. would slash Chinese exports by 8% and reduce GDP by 2%. If the U.S. broadens tariffs to include goods from other countries, it would amplify the impact on China, which has circumvented some tariffs by rerouting exports through third-party nations. How can China go on the offense? China’s most significant leverage lies in its dominance of crucial materials essential for U.S. products like semiconductors and missiles. After the latest round of U.S. tech restrictions, China retaliated by banning exports of rare elements like gallium, germanium and antimony, cutting off at least half the U.S. supply, according to U.S. Geological Survey data. This move was seen as a warning to the next administration of China’s ability to disrupt U.S. advancements in key strategic industries. China can also employ monetary policy as a weapon. During the last trade war, it allowed the yuan to depreciate against the U.S. dollar, making Chinese exports cheaper. The U.S. labeled China a currency manipulator, an accusation Beijing denied. After the U.S. began blacklisting Chinese companies under Trump, China launched its own blacklist of entities it considers threats to its national interests. This enables Beijing to swiftly sanction U.S. individuals and businesses in retaliation for trade restrictions. In September, China investigated PVH Corp., the parent company of Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger, for allegedly boycotting Xinjiang cotton. The U.S. has accused China of genocide against Muslim ethnic groups in Xinjiang and prohibits the use of products tied to forced labor. On Monday, China launched an antitrust probe into Nvidia, a U.S. semiconductor giant whose value has surged amid the AI boom. The U.S. has barred Nvidia from selling certain advanced chips to China. If the trade war escalates, China could expand its list of targeted companies and create hurdles for U.S. businesses operating in China, such as banning staff, restricting sales or imposing burdensome compliance requirements. What are the downsides for China? China has the capability to harm the U.S. economy, but it must act cautiously. Ja-Ian Chong, an associate professor of political science at the National University of Singapore, said punishing U.S. operations in China could deter foreign investment and accelerate efforts to relocate supply chains to other countries. This comes at a time when China is striving to attract more international business. Enforcing a full embargo on crucial materials would be difficult given the complexity of global supply chains and could alienate other trade partners, including Taiwan and South Korea. "Beijing has options, but these options are not cost-free," Chong said. "It comes down to how far China is willing to go."