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DALLAS — The Winnipeg Jets have finally hit the end of the long road here in Dallas. Now the question is whether the hockey club has any fuel left in the tank? Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * DALLAS — The Winnipeg Jets have finally hit the end of the long road here in Dallas. Now the question is whether the hockey club has any fuel left in the tank? Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? DALLAS — The Winnipeg Jets have finally hit the end of the long road here in Dallas. Now the question is whether the hockey club has any fuel left in the tank? Stops in Pittsburgh, Nashville, St. Paul, Los Angeles and Las Vegas have produced a 2-3-0 record so far. If the Jets are to finish this 10-day trek at .500, they’ll need to find a way to beat a tough Stars team on Sunday afternoon. “This has been a grind. It really has,” said head coach Scott Arniel. “We’ve got one more to go here. We’d all love to go home 3-3.” Ryan Sun / The Associated Press The Winnipeg Jets will play the Dallas Stars on Sunday to cap off a six-game road trip that’s seen them travel from Pittsburgh to Los Angeles – with a few stops in between – and earn a record of 2-3-0 in their last five games. One potentially good bit of news emerged during Saturday’s optional practice at American Airlines Center — forward Nikolaj Ehlers, who left Friday’s 4-3 loss to the Golden Knights with a lower-body injury, has not entirely been ruled out. “We’ll see how he is tomorrow, see if he’s any better. Get some treatment, get some rest today. And then look at it tomorrow and see where we’re at,” said Arniel. “He’s the type of guy that wants to play. It doesn’t help that it’s a 3:30 game (with no morning skate).” “He has a skill-set that opposition coaches kind of circle. His skill and his speed and his ability to create.” Ehlers was one of a handful of players who didn’t hit the ice, along with Mark Scheifele (who is also battling an undisclosed ailment), Vlad Namestnikov (he also missed Thursday’s skate in Vegas for maintenance) and defenceman Dylan DeMelo. Winnipeg still has the best record in the NHL at 18-6-0, although they are just 3-5-0 in the last eight games overall as tough travel, tough opponents and some tough breaks on the injury front all take a toll. Shutdown defenceman Dylan Samberg suffered a broken foot a week ago against the Predators and is sidelined indefinitely, and the Jets certainly missed Ehlers’ presence for the second half of their game against the Golden Knights, especially late as they pushed for the equalizer with a 6-on-4 advantage in the final minute. “He has a skill-set that opposition coaches kind of circle. His skill and his speed and his ability to create,” Arniel said of Ehlers, who is third on the team in scoring with 25 points (9G, 16A) in 24 games. “It’s a hole when he’s not there.” Alex Iafallo jumped up from the fourth line to take Ehlers’ spot beside Namestnikov and Cole Perfetti, who snapped an 11-game scoring slump with two goals. That trio would likely remain intact if Ehlers can’t go, and David Gustafsson — a healthy scratch for 23 of 24 games — would come into the lineup to fill Iafallo’s role. Ian Maule / The Associated Press Winnipeg Jets’ Cole Perfetti scores on Vegas Golden Knights goaltender Adin Hill in the first period of their game Friday in Las Vegas. The Golden Knights won 4-3. “I was real proud of Cole last night. He’s been struggling,” said Arniel. “The biggest thing is where he went and scored that first goal. It was to the net-front against a team that’s real hard. Vegas doesn’t let you get inside, and he went right in there and got that first one. I liked the way he competed on pucks. That line has to do that. If Al’s in there tomorrow, we’ll see how it goes without Fly (Ehlers).” Iafallo had a great net-front drive on Perfetti’s second goal and will look to do more of the same if required. “It’s tough when a guy goes down like Fly in the second, obviously we had to just pick up from there and try to get as many chances as we could,” he said. “It was great for him to get those two goals. Now he’s just got to remember to not grip his stick too hard. Just play the right way and it will eventually go in.” “It was great for him to get those two goals. Now he’s just got to remember to not grip his stick too hard. Just play the right way and it will eventually go in, and that’s what he did yesterday. He had a great game.” Hellebuyck will start in goal for the Jets after getting a rest against the Golden Knights. Arniel wasn’t about to tip his hand as to other potential lineup decisions. He opted to scratch third-pairing defencemen Ville Heinola and Colin Miller against Vegas in favour of Dylan Coghlan (making his Jets debut after 23 straight scratches) and Logan Stanley (coming off the injured list). “I felt good. First couple shifts I got into it early with a little turnover and then getting my stick on a puck that probably was going to go into the net,” said Coghlan, who still has several friends on the Golden Knights after playing his first two NHL seasons (2020-21, 2021-22) there. The undrafted 26-year-old says he prides himself on being a good teammate and understood why it was tough to crack an otherwise healthy Jets lineup that was flying so high. “I feel like I’ve done a pretty good job trying to stay mentally prepared and ready. Through video and stuff, just making sure those little things I’m not losing sight of,” said Coghlan. “It is hard, but I’ve done it in the past so it’s not something I’m new to. Obviously everybody wants to play, but happy for all the guys and I don’t think anybody expected us to start 15-1. I’m not one to complain when guys are playing well and the team’s doing so well. That’s kind of my mindset.” Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. Although they suffered a second straight loss, Arniel was much more pleased with the effort against Vegas than the one on Wednesday night in Los Angeles, where the Jets mustered just 14 shots in a lacklustre 4-1 setback. “I liked a lot of what we did. There were a lot of good things. We stayed in it,” said Arniel. “Now Dallas, a different team, a different look.” This is the second meeting of the year between the Jets and Stars, with Winnipeg taking the first by a 4-1 score back on Nov. 9 at Canada Life Centre. “To me this is the second-best team in the Western Conference,” Arniel said of Dallas, which is coming off a 5-3 victory over Colorado on Friday. “These guys are real good and they’re probably going to be real angry after our game that we had in Winnipeg. We’re going to have make sure we have all our energy, all our right mindset.” Iafallo doesn’t believe that will be a problem, even if fatigue is a real factor during a schedule such as this. “We definitely have to have a good game and try to get a win out of this,” he said. “Our expectations are high, so we’ve got to keep pushing to get to that next level. Obviously we had a good start to the season but this long road trip, we’ve got to come together and finish it with a good end. The boys are going to be ready to do whatever it takes.” mike.mcintyre@freepress.mb.ca X and Bluesky: @mikemcintyrewpg Mike McIntyre is a sports reporter whose primary role is covering the Winnipeg Jets. After graduating from the Creative Communications program at Red River College in 1995, he spent two years gaining experience at the before joining the in 1997, where he served on the crime and justice beat until 2016. . Every piece of reporting Mike produces is reviewed by an editing team before it is posted online or published in print — part of the ‘s tradition, since 1872, of producing reliable independent journalism. Read more about , and . Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider . Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support. Mike McIntyre is a sports reporter whose primary role is covering the Winnipeg Jets. After graduating from the Creative Communications program at Red River College in 1995, he spent two years gaining experience at the before joining the in 1997, where he served on the crime and justice beat until 2016. . Every piece of reporting Mike produces is reviewed by an editing team before it is posted online or published in print — part of the ‘s tradition, since 1872, of producing reliable independent journalism. Read more about , and . Our newsroom depends on a growing audience of readers to power our journalism. If you are not a paid reader, please consider . Our newsroom depends on its audience of readers to power our journalism. Thank you for your support. Advertisement Advertisement
Memphis beats No. 2 UConn 99-97 in overtime to tipoff Maui InvitationalNo. 13 seed Tarleton State wins inaugural FCS playoff game, beats Drake 43-29
Costco to stop selling books at most US locations starting next yearSTEPHENVILLE, Texas (AP) — Victor Gabalis and Kayvon Britten each accounted for two touchdowns, Darius Cooper had 190 yards receiving with a score and No. 13 seed Tarleton State won its inaugural FCS playoff game with a 43-29 victory over unseeded Drake on Saturday in a first-round matchup. Tarleton State (10-3) will travel to No. 4 seed South Dakota (9-2) in a second-round game on Dec. 7. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.
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NORTH HUNTINGDON, Pa. – The Penn Cambria football team’s incredible season ended one game short of an appearance in the PIAA Class 3A championship game on a frigid Friday night at Norwin High School. District 7 champ Avonworth rode its one-two Neal Brothers rushing attack and a stout defense to a 16-6 victory over Penn Cambria in the state semifinal round. PHOTO GALLERY | Avonworth ends Penn Cambria's historic run in 3A state semifinal But coach Nick Felus and his District 6-3A champion Panthers left the snowy turf at Knights Stadium to the cheers and chants from a large crowd of fans who withstood temperatures in the mid-20s and occasional snow showers. This group of Panthers made history and brought a community together, especially over the past month in winning the program’s first District 6 football title and two state playoff wins, as well as a Laurel Highlands Athletic Conference championship. WTAJ | Penn Cambria vs. Avonworth “Hell of a ride,” said Penn Cambria senior Gavin Harrold, whose 62-yard touchdown run in the second quarter gave the Panthers a 6-3 halftime lead. “I wouldn’t want to go to battle with anyone else. We played as hard as we could. Sometimes you just can’t come out with the ‘dub.’ That’s what happened. “Hats off to them. A great team. I’m sad it ends.” Penn Cambria closed a 14-1 season. Avonworth takes a 12-3 record into next Saturday’s PIAA championship game against undefeated District 11 Northwestern Lehigh, a 31-14 winner over District 4 Danville. “We love these guys so much. This senior class, now it’s going to hurt,” Penn Cambria’s Felus said after leading an emotional, postgame team huddle in the end zone. “It’s going to sting but what they did for the program and the community is second to none.” The Panthers roster included 11 seniors who were key in a “Mountain Mentality” resurgence. “They’re going to be able to look back and understand how much of an impact they had,” Felus said. “We had an unbelievable season. It didn’t end the way we wanted it to end, but we’re not going to let this one game define what this group did for our program and our community.” Avonworth junior Luca Neal gained 254 yards and scored both of his team’s touchdowns. He had 27 carries, most out of a wildcat formation. His brother senior Nico Neal gained 62 yards on 16 carries. Nov. 23 in the District 7 title game win over Central Valley, Nico Neal had 102 rushing yards and two TDs at Acrisure Stadium. “We just wanted to stay to our game plan,” Avonworth coach Duke Johncour said. “The Neal boys are tough hard runners. We knew we eventually could punch one in, and we did. “Our kids are resilient,” he said. “They’re in shape. They’re physical. They’re tough. “They’re downhill.” Neither team scored in the first quarter, although both squads had some success moving the ball on their opening drives. Penn Cambria stopped Avonworth’s Luca Neal for a loss of 1 on fourth-and-1 to take over at the Panthers 38-yard line with 1:13 left in the first quarter. But the possession ended in a third punt by Brady Jones. Behind Luca Neal’s 60 rushing yards, Avonworth moved 66 yards in 13 plays. Facing a fourth-and-4 from the Penn Cambria 8, the Antelopes called on Calder Mahan, who booted a 25-yard field goal with 4:06 remaining in the half. Penn Cambria answered quickly. Harrold got around the end and used a downfield block by junior quarterback Brady Jones, who lined up at receiver, to run 62 yards to the end zone to give the Panthers a 6-3 advantage with 2:30 on the clock. “We saw the outside started to get open. We just hit that side. Great blocks by everyone,” Harrold said. As usual, Penn Cambria lined up for a two-point conversion, but took an encroachment penalty, pushing the ball back to the 7. The ensuing pass attempt sailed through the end zone. “Just an unbelievable effort,” Felus said of the TD run. “That’s what Gavin does. Brady Jones, as a quarterback, lined up at wide receiver and made an unbelievable block.” Avonworth moved to the Panthers 42 in six plays but the drive stalled. Penn Cambria ran out the first-half clock, holding a three-point lead. Early in the third quarter, Nico Neal ran 51 yards to the end zone, but a holding penalty negated the touchdown. Four plays later, the Panthers senior Mason Mento and sophomore Corbin Vinglish stopped Nico Neal on a fourth-and-1 at the Penn Cambria 42. Penn Cambria advanced to the Avonworth 23, but Jones and senior Derek Hite narrowly missed connecting on a fourth-down pass that went a bit high and out of the end zone. Luca Neal ran 65 yards for a touchdown to give the Antelopes a 9-6 lead with 4:39 left in the third quarter. “That’s a great team,” Johncour said of the Panthers. “He broke through the line on that one and made a huge play. He’s a talented player.” Avonworth had an opportunity to pull away after recovering a Penn Cambria fumble at the Panthers’ 45 right after the touchdown. The Antelopes ran 13 plays and got to the 11-yard line, but Penn Cambria junior defensive back Blake Lilly intercepted a pass in the end zone and returned to the 28 with 9:16 remaining in the game. “Our kids battled for all four quarters,” Felus said. “It was one of those games where (Avonworth) tried to control the ball, especially in the fourth quarter. It didn’t feel like we had the ball a lot. “We just weren’t opportunistic enough to take advantage of a few things, but the effort was unbelievable,” he said. “The kids played so hard. The community support was unbelievable.” Luca Neal scored on a 2-yard run with 1:08 remaining, and Mahan booted the extra point. “That last drive sealed the deal,” Johncour said. “That was a great drive.” Harrold gained 97 yards and Jones passed for 30 against a stingy Antelopes defense. “They’re a very good team, well-coached,” Johncour said. “They had athletes all over the field. Our defense played lights out again. We had one blown gasket on a defensive play. “We missed a line. That 12 (Harrold) is going to make you pay for it. He did.” Penn Cambria under sixth-year head coach Felus has emerged from a once-struggling program to a state semifinalist. “We set a standard,” Harrold said. “Ever since I was in seventh grade, Coach Felus came in as head coach and had us working. At first, we were hesitant. Is this going to pay off? “You can tell it paid off. It was a hell of a journey working up from seventh grade the whole way up to now. I just can’t thank Coach Felus enough.” Mike Mastovich is a sports reporter and columnist for The Tribune-Democrat. He can be reached at 814-532-5083. Follow him on Twitter @Masty81. (c)2024 The Tribune-Democrat (Johnstown, Pa.) Visit The Tribune-Democrat (Johnstown, Pa.) at www.tribune-democrat.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Timberwolves delayed their game against the San Antonio Spurs by one hour on Sunday night due to an issue with the court at Target Center. The Timberwolves announced the decision about three hours before the originally scheduled tipoff time. The Spurs discovered the problem during their morning shootaround, Timberwolves spokesman Patrick Rees said. The team decided to delay the game so arena staff had enough time to install the replacement court that had to be delivered from elsewhere.
Work and pensions minister Sir Stephen Timms said the move aims to drive “real improvements” for disabled people, whom the ministers will be encouraged to engage with on a regular basis. He told the Commons: “I am very pleased to be able to announce today the appointment of new lead ministers for disability in each Government department, they will represent the interests of disabled people, champion disability inclusion and accessibility within their departments. “I’m going to chair regular meetings with them and will encourage them to engage directly with disabled people and their representative organisations, as they take forward their departmental priorities. “And I look forward to this new group of lead ministers for disability together driving real improvements across Government for disabled people.” This came during an adjournment debate on International Day of Persons with Disabilities, where Liberal Democrat MP Steve Darling raised concerns about “floating bus stops”, which have a cycle lane between the stop and the pavement. Intervening, the MP for Torbay, who is registered blind, said: “The Government needs to ban floating bus stops.” Sir Stephen said: “I do think this issue about floating bus stops is an important issue which we need to work across Government to reflect on.” Labour MP Debbie Abrahams, who led the debate, had earlier criticised the lack of accessibility for disabled people on trains. The Oldham East and Saddleworth MP said: “Our train network does not have level access, and we heard Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson from the other place make this plea back in the summer, absolutely outrageous what she was put through. “But I was absolutely shocked to find, when I had a presentation of the TransPennine route upgrade, that the rolling stock yet to be commissioned is not going to provide that level access. “It’s absolute nonsense, it’s not even in the design of that procurement, so we must do better than this.”The Myanmar delegation led by Dr Wah Wah Maung, Eminent Person (EP) of Myanmar for the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Community’s Post-2025 Vision and Deputy Minister for Investment and Foreign Economic Relations, attended the 19th meeting of the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Community’s Post-2025 Vision (17th HLTF-ACV), which was held in Vientiane, Lao PDR, on 10-12 December 2024, accompanied by officials from the ASEAN Affairs Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Drafting sessions of the high-level representatives were also held on the sideline of the 19th meeting of HLTF-ACV and concluded the fifth reading with 98 per cent completion of the draft ASEAN Political and Security Community (APSC) Strategic Plan. The 19th HLTF-ACV meeting was co-chaired by Eminent Persons (EP) of Lao PDR and Malaysia, as the permanent shepherd Member State, and attended by eminent persons, high-level representatives and officials from the ASEAN member states, representatives from Timor-Leste as well as the ASEAN deputy secretary-general for APSC and officials from the ASEAN Secretariat. At the meeting, the HLTF-ACV had an Interface meeting with the Chair of the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration (HLTF-EI), Co-Chairs of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Development of ASCC Post-2025 Strategic Plan and Chair of the ASEAN Connectivity Coordinating Committee (ACCC) and the respective pillars have updated their progress in developing their respective ASEAN Vision 2045 strategic action plans. The meeting exchanged views on the development of the respective strategic plans, placement of the elements of institutional strengthening-related strategic measures and cross-cutting issues. In addition, the HLTF-ACV had an interface with the ASEAN Youth Organization Chair and the respective stakeholders have updated their works and contributions to the ASEAN Community Vision and shared the priorities and challenges to be addressed in the future ahead by providing their recommendations. The meeting exchanged views on the emerging challenges and recommendations made by the respective stakeholders on the development of the APSC Strategic Plan in a friendly, cordial and candid manner. During the 19th HLTF-ACV meeting, Deputy Minister Dr Wah Wah Maung commended the over 95 per cent progress of works in developing respective strategic plans of ASEAN pillars and connectivity of the ASEAN Community’s Post-2025 Vision. The deputy minister emphasized the critical importance of institutional strengthening for the three ASEAN community pillars and ASEAN connectivity. She urged to prioritize discussions on pillar-specific improvements within the framework of institutional strengthening strategic measures. Highlighting the distinct nature and roles of each ASEAN community pillar, she called for tailored strategic measures aligned with their unique mandates and encouraged each pillar to deliberate on these specific actions to strengthen ASEAN’s institutional framework. She further underscored the continued role of the ASEAN political-security community (APSC) in providing general recommendations for efficient and effective implementation of ASEAN institutional strengthening. The deputy minister concluded by calling for the APSC pillar to take the lead in implementing these strategic measures, while other pillars to contribute support and collaborate for the success of ASEAN’s institutional strengthening. The upcoming 20th HLTF-ACV meeting scheduled in January 2025 will look into further discussion of the strategic plans of the ASEAN community pillars. In addition, the meeting will also focus on the need to address issues such as ensuring harmonization among strategic measures of the relevant community pillars, avoiding duplication of strategic measures, and strengthening linkages and coordination among sectoral bodies. The meeting will also emphasize further deliberation on the timely conclusion of the strategic plans for their adoption at the 46th ASEAN Summit in May 2025 in Malaysia. — MNANEW YORK (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump’s lawyers formally asked a judge Monday to throw out his hush money criminal , arguing continuing the case would present unconstitutional “disruptions to the institution of the Presidency.“ In a filing made public Tuesday, Trump’s lawyers told Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan that dismissal is warranted because of the “overwhelming national mandate granted to him by the American people on November 5, 2024.” They also cited President Joe Biden’s recent of his son, Hunter Biden, who had been convicted of . “President Biden asserted that his son was ‘selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted,’ and ‘treated differently,’" Trump’s legal team wrote. The Manhattan district attorney, they claimed, had engaged in the type of political theater "that President Biden condemned.” Prosecutors will have until Dec. 9 to respond. They have said they will fight any efforts to dismiss the case but have indicated a willingness to delay the sentencing until after Trump’s second term ends in 2029. In their filing Monday, Trump's attorneys dismissed the idea of holding off sentencing until Trump is out of office as a “ridiculous suggestion.” Following Trump’s election victory last month, Merchan halted proceedings and indefinitely postponed his sentencing, previously scheduled for late November, to allow the defense and prosecution to weigh in on the future of the case. He also delayed a decision on Trump’s to dismiss the case on immunity grounds. Trump has been fighting for months to reverse his conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal a $130,000 payment to porn actor Stormy Daniels to suppress her claim that they had sex a decade earlier. He says they did not and denies any wrongdoing. Taking a swipe at Bragg and New York City, as Trump often did throughout the trial, the filing argues that dismissal would also benefit the public by giving him and “the numerous prosecutors assigned to this case a renewed opportunity to put an end to deteriorating conditions in the City and to protect its residents from violent crime.” Clearing Trump, the lawyers added, would also allow him to “to devote all of his energy to protecting the Nation.” The defense filing was signed by Trump lawyers Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, who represented Trump during the trial and have since been selected by the president-elect to fill senior roles at the Justice Department. A dismissal would erase Trump’s historic conviction, sparing him the cloud of a criminal record and possible prison sentence. Trump is the first former president to be convicted of a crime and the first convicted criminal to be elected to the office. Trump takes office on Jan. 20. Merchan hasn’t set a timetable for a decision. Merchan could also decide to uphold the verdict and proceed to sentencing, delay the case until Trump leaves office, wait until a federal appeals court rules on Trump’s parallel effort to get the case moved out of state court or choose some other option. Prosecutors had cast the payout as part of a Trump-driven effort to keep voters from hearing salacious stories about him. Trump’s then-lawyer Michael Cohen paid Daniels. Trump later reimbursed him, and Trump’s company logged the reimbursements as legal expenses — concealing what they really were, prosecutors alleged. Trump has pledged to appeal the verdict if the case is not dismissed. He and his lawyers said the payments to Cohen were properly categorized as legal expenses for legal work. A month after the verdict, the that ex-presidents can’t be prosecuted for official acts — things they did in the course of running the country — and that prosecutors can’t cite those actions to bolster a case centered on purely personal, unofficial conduct. argue that the hush money jury got some improper evidence, such as Trump’s presidential financial disclosure form, testimony from some White House aides and social media posts made during his first term. and said the evidence in question was only “a sliver” of their case. If the verdict stands and the case proceeds to sentencing, Trump’s punishments would range from a fine to probation to up to four years in prison — but it’s unlikely he’d spend any time behind bars for a first-time conviction involving charges in the lowest tier of felonies. Because it is a state case, Trump would not be able to pardon himself once he returns to office. Presidential pardons apply only to federal crimes.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol stunned voters, lawmakers and investors by declaring martial law on Tuesday in a high-stakes move he claimed would prevent the opposition from trying to paralyze his administration amid a political rift that is set to deepen markedly. In an emergency national address televised live, Yoon said he made the decision to protect freedom and constitutional order, and that it will not have an impact on South Korea’s foreign policy. He added that it would also help eradicate the influence of North Korean supporters. “Through the declaration of martial law, I will rebuild and protect a free South Korea,” Yoon said in a six-minute speech. A proclamation released after the address banned all political activities and strikes and said media would be subject to control of the Martial Law Command, according to Yonhap News. The move was initially viewed by analysts as a risky political play that was likely to backfire rather than an attempt to return to military-led regimes of the past. South Korea’s National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik called on lawmakers to go the national assembly immediately. In the 300-seat parliament, 190 lawmakers unanimously voted to demand the lifting of the martial law. “I urge the public to trust the parliament and monitor the situation with calm,” Woo said in a statement. It was not immediately clear whether the vote would be binding. The won suffered its sharpest drop since the global financial crisis to hit 1444.65 its lowest in over two years. Samsung Electronics’ London-listed shares fell as much as 7.2 percent. The finance minister and central bank chief met and promised to provide unlimited liquidity to markets if needed. The shock announcement to impose martial law for the first time since the democratization of South Korea in 1987 left even Yoon’s own party blindsided with its leader vowing to stop the move. Yoon’s abrupt decision comes after months of wrangling and deadlock in parliament between the president’s minority government and the main opposition Democratic Party, but with little expectation that the president would take such a drastic step. The DP is currently trying to force through its own budget proposal through parliament and has submitted an impeachment motion against the chief prosecutor after months of also trying to get Yoon’s wife prosecuted. Meanwhile, the DP’s leader has faced multiple court cases and was convicted last month of election-law violations, barring him from running for president if it is finalized. Yoon has dealt with the political deadlock in a largely standoffish manner, vetoing a string of bills passed by parliament and at times angering his own party. His latest act ramps up tensions considerably domestically, while also creating high uncertainty abroad for the outlook of one of the world’s key suppliers of semiconductors and tech-related gear. “Yoon’s declaration of emergency martial law is highly concerning. It marks a stark shift in the administration’s policy,” said Kayla Orta, senior associate at the Hyundai Motor-Korea Foundation Center for Korean History and Public Policy in Washington DC. “Instead of solidifying his political position, this could further damage his domestic standing.” South Korea’s defense minister ordered a meeting with the military’s top commanders. Broadcaster YTN said martial law would be maintained until the president lifts it, citing a defense official it did not identify. While Clause 77 of the Constitution says the president must withdraw a martial law declaration after a parliamentary majority demands it, Clause 89 says such an annulment should undergo a review by the cabinet as well. Earlier YTN showed police restricting entry to the parliament compound as people gathered neared the gate. Aides of lawmakers used fire extinguisher to block soldiers from entering the building. Even if the martial law order lasts only a day, the political instability it will generate is set to last two or three years, according to Lee Won-Jae, a sociology professor at Kaist Graduate School of Culture Technology in Daejeon. The leader of Yoon’s People Power Party condemned the move, in comments that indicated the lack of consultation on the move. He expressed the view that the vote had put an end to Yoon’s order. “The president’s declaration of martial law is wrong,” Han Dong-hoon, said in a Facebook post. “Martial law has lost its effect, so from this moment on, all state institutions exercising physical force, including the military and police of the Republic of Korea, are obligated not to follow unlawful or unfair instructions,” Han said in a separate post. Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung urged the military and the police to go back to their posts, saying the declaration was nullified with the parliament’s vote. “All presidential orders based on the declaration of the martial law are unconstitutional, invalid and illegal,” Lee said, flanked by dozens of lawmakers. The move comes at a time of high uncertainty for the nation as its trade-dependent economy faces potential tariffs from President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming administration. Bloomberg Economics estimates that full imposition of tariffs on China, South Korea and other U.S. trading partners could reduce Seoul’s exports to the U.S. by as much as 55 percent. Meanwhile, North Korea continues to present a security concern as it deepens its ties with Russia, having sent thousands of troops there to help in Moscow’s war against Ukraine. Russia’s defense minister visited Pyongyang last week in the latest sign of talks between the two countries. Russia may help provide North Korea key technology for its weapons programs including its intercontinental ballistic missiles. “We shouldn’t be fooled — this has nothing at all to do with North Korea and all to do with domestic politics,” said Defense Priorities Fellow Daniel DePetris. “I expect U.S. and U.K. officials will be getting on the phone to try to convince President Yoon to abide by what the parliament just did.” U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Philip Goldberg said the U.S. embassy in Seoul and the State Department are closely tracking Yoon’s martial law declaration. “The situation is fluid,” Goldberg said in an X post, urging citizens to monitor local news sources for updates. China suggested its citizens residing in South Korea keep calm and try to avoid going outdoors for anything non-essential, the country’s embassy said in a post on social media Tuesday night. The embassy also asked Chinese citizens to comply with official orders from the Korean government and “use caution” over sharing political opinions. “The domestic uncertainty adds to the external pressures in recent weeks as the market is starting to price in the rise of higher U.S. tariffs under the new Trump administration,” said Aroop Chatterjee, a strategist at Wells Fargo. “Korea is an open economy sensitive to shifts in global export demand and spillovers from a weaker China.” It is unclear what impact the martial law will have on South Korea’s biggest chipmakers. Nvidia depends mostly on SK Hynix for so-called high-bandwidth memory chips required for its most cutting-edge semiconductors, and whether the South Korean chip firm can continue to supply those high-end memory chips may affect the global AI development. While it remains to be seen if the move will have a lasting impact on markets and the economy, Yoon’s high-stakes move is certain to knock confidence in his leadership and his reliability as a bulwark of democracy in a nation with many authoritarian neighbors. “U.S. officials look to South Korea now as a beacon of democracy so for a president to pull a fast one like this is certainly shocking and unprecedented.” said DePetris.Champions Trophy concludes Karachi tour after public displays KARACHI: The ICC Champions Trophy concluded its tour of Karachi on Friday with visits of several of the city’s iconic landmarks, educational institutions, and cultural sites. The Karachi leg of the tour kicked off on Wednesday at the historic Burns Road food street, where cricket enthusiasts and local residents gathered to catch a glimpse of the trophy. A photoshoot along with the trophy was also conducted to highlight the food culture of Karachi. From there, the silverware embarked on a citywide journey, visiting prominent locations. On Friday, the trophy was taken to various spots, including educational institutes, the Quaid-e-Azam’s mausoleum, Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) headquarters, Mohatta Palace, and the National Stadium. A highlight of the Karachi tour on Friday was an event at a local college, where students gave Champions Trophy-winning captain Sarfaraz Ahmed a hero’s welcome. Sarfaraz, who led Pakistan to its first Champions Trophy title in 2017, shared his memories of the historic victory. “All our players cherish every moment from that tournament,” Sarfaraz told the audience. “It was a defining moment in Pakistan’s cricket history, and seeing this trophy brings back those memories.” The former skipper posed for photos with the trophy alongside excited students and staff. The trophy also made a stop at the KMC headquarters, where Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, along with provincial minister Nasir Hussain Shah, received it with enthusiasm. Addressing the gathering, Wahab described the Champions Trophy’s visit as a proud moment for the city. “Having the Champions Trophy here in Karachi is a tremendous honour,” he said. “It represents the spirit of cricket that unites the people of Pakistan.” Wahab expressed optimism about Karachi hosting matches during the 2025 Champions Trophy and promised full support from the city administration. “It will be a privilege for Karachi to host matches of this prestigious tournament. We are ready to provide every necessary facility to ensure the success of the event,” he said. The mayor also called for politics to be kept separate from sports. “As Pakistan recently sent its team to India for the World Cup, I hope the Indian government reciprocates by allowing their team to visit Pakistan. If they come, we will extend the best possible hospitality to them,” he added. Sindh Sports Minister Sardar Muhammad Bux Mahar and Sports Secretary Abdul Aleem Lashari also participated in the activities during the trophy’s stop at the National Stadium. Mahar expressed his joy over Pakistan hosting the Champions Trophy, emphasising the country’s readiness to welcome international teams. “Pakistan is fully prepared to host this prestigious event,” Mahar said. “Our unmatched hospitality and love for cricket will leave a lasting impression on visiting teams.” The trophy also made a visit to the Quaid-e-Azam’s mausoleum for a ceremonial photoshoot. This was followed by a stop at Mohatta Palace, where Sindh Culture Minister Zulfiqar Ali Shah posed with the trophy and praised the initiative to include cultural landmarks in the tour. Hundreds of cricket fans gathered at Port Grand on Friday evening to see the iconic silverware up close and take photographs. The atmosphere at the waterfront venue highlighted the city’s passion for cricket. Cricket enthusiasts lined up to capture memories with the trophy. The Champions Trophy will leave for Lahore on Saturday (today). However, no official activities or public events have been scheduled, so far, in Lahore. Following its tour of Pakistan, the trophy will continue its international journey. Afghanistan is the next destination.
DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn has spoken about origin stories in his new DC Universe after a fan asked why he is “overlooking origin stories” in the upcoming titles and how missing out stops the audience being able to “connect with the characters well at emotional level”. In a response on , Gunn says: “I’m not telling Batman and Superman’s origin stories again because everyone knows them.” Beyond that though, origin stories could well be told. He took issue with the fan dubbing Swamp Thing a niche character for “hardcore comicbook readers”, saying he’s anything but: “Don’t put Swamp Thing in the corner... he’s an incredibly well known character with not only some of the greatest comics of all time but a successful film series and his own TV show, something that could be said of only a very small handful of DC characters.” He was then asked if he believes the general audience knows Wonder Woman’s canonical origin, something that could potentially be explored in the political drama series “Paradise Lost” which was announced on the slate and is set in Themyscira before the birth of Diana. Gunn responded: “Not as many people do – also because she’s had various origin stories.” He then goes on to add that the series is currently in “very active development,” but no casting information has yet emerged. Multiple films on the DC slate remain in development at this time with “Superman” the only one completed filming and “Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow” gearing up to film ahead of a mid-2026 release.Joly touts ‘private’ diplomacy as Mexico criticizes Canada’s culture, trade
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NoneBen Sheizaf Appointed as Board Member and Chairman of the Board Tel-Aviv, Israel, Nov. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ellomay Capital Ltd. (NYSE American; TASE: ELLO) (“Ellomay” or the “Company”), a renewable energy and power generator and developer of renewable energy and power projects in Europe, Israel and the USA, announced today that Shlomo Nehama, after serving as chairman of the board for 16 years, has decided to resign from the Company’s Board of Directors. Mr. Nehama served on the Board of Directors and as the Company’s Chairman of the Board since March 2008 and is a controlling shareholder of the Company. In connection with Mr. Nehama’s resignation, the Company’s Board of Directors unanimously appointed Mr. Ben Sheizaf as a member of the Board of Directors and as Chairman of the Board. Mr. Sheizaf will serve as a director until the Company’s 2025 annual general meeting, at which he can be nominated for reappointment to the Company’s Board of Directors. Mr. Sheizaf, 67, is the founder and CEO of B.P.O. Ltd., a consulting firm since 2019, and has held many senior positions in the Israeli finance and insurance sectors. Mr. Sheizaf currently serves as a member of the board and chairman of the risk management committee of Isracard Ltd. (TASE: ISCD) and as chairman of the board of Detelix Software Technologies Ltd. Between 2008-2019 he held several positions in Phoenix Financial Ltd. (TASE: PHOE), including Deputy CEO and Head of the Long-Term Savings Division, CEO of The Phoenix Pension and Provident Fund Ltd. and a board member of other companies in the group, chairman of Excellence Provident Fund Ltd. and a member of the board of Excellence Investments Ltd. (between 2018-2019), and chairman of Shekel Insurance Agency (2008) Ltd. (between 2012-2015). Mr. Sheizaf holds a B.A. in Accounting and Economics from Tel Aviv University and completed a supplemental year of accounting studies. “Having served as chairman of the board for 16 years, it is time for me to step down. We have achieved extraordinary growth and expansion with an impressive geographical spread as well. I am proud of what we have accomplished. It is with great pleasure that I thank the shareholders for their trust in us, the board members, and management for their responsible and accurate implementation of our strategic plans. The future holds many opportunities for us. I am pleased to announce Benny Sheizaf’s appointment. I am confident that he will bring impressive knowledge and experience. This will help move the company forward to new heights. Needless to mention that if so requested or required I shall personally assist the board and the chairman in all aspects,” said Mr. Nehama. “It is my pleasure to thank Shlomo and the members of the board for their confidence in me. Together with Ellomay’s excellent team, I am confident that we will lead the company to significant and sustainable growth,” said Mr. Sheizaf, the incoming Chairman of the Board. About Ellomay Capital Ltd. Ellomay is an Israeli based company whose shares are listed on the NYSE American and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange under the trading symbol “ELLO”. Since 2009, Ellomay Capital focuses its business in the renewable energy and power sectors in Europe, USA and Israel. To date, Ellomay has evaluated numerous opportunities and invested significant funds in the renewable, clean energy and natural resources industries in Israel, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Texas, USA, including: For more information about Ellomay, visit http://www.ellomay.com . Information Relating to Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties, including statements that are based on the current expectations and assumptions of the Company’s management. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release regarding the Company’s plans and objectives, expectations and assumptions of management are forward-looking statements. The use of certain words, including the words “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “expect,” “believe” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in the forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on the Company’s forward-looking statements. Various important factors could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those that may be expressed or implied by the Company’s forward-looking statements, including changes in electricity prices and demand, continued war and hostilities in Israel, Gaza and Lebanon, regulatory changes, including extension of current or approval of new rules and regulations increasing the operating expenses of manufacturers of renewable energy in Spain, increases in interest rates and inflation, changes in the supply and prices of resources required for the operation of the Company’s facilities (such as waste and natural gas) and in the price of oil, the impact of continued military conflict between Russia and Ukraine, technical and other disruptions in the operations or construction of the power plants owned by the Company and general market, political and economic conditions in the countries in which the Company operates, including Israel, Spain, Italy and the United States. These and other risks and uncertainties associated with the Company’s business are described in greater detail in the filings the Company makes from time to time with Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 20-F. The forward-looking statements are made as of this date and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Contact: Kalia Rubenbach (Weintraub) CFO Tel: +972 (3) 797-1111 Email: hilai@ellomay.comPrepare to Be Amazed by BMW’s Futuristic Factory Workers