jb777 WASHINGTON (AP) — As a former and potentially future president, Donald Trump hailed what would become Project 2025 as a road map for “exactly what our movement will do” with another crack at the White House. As the blueprint for a hard-right turn in America became a liability during the 2024 campaign, Trump pulled an about-face . He denied knowing anything about the “ridiculous and abysmal” plans written in part by his first-term aides and allies. Now, after being elected the 47th president on Nov. 5, Trump is stocking his second administration with key players in the detailed effort he temporarily shunned. Most notably, Trump has tapped Russell Vought for an encore as director of the Office of Management and Budget; Tom Homan, his former immigration chief, as “border czar;” and immigration hardliner Stephen Miller as deputy chief of policy . Those moves have accelerated criticisms from Democrats who warn that Trump's election hands government reins to movement conservatives who spent years envisioning how to concentrate power in the West Wing and impose a starkly rightward shift across the U.S. government and society. Trump and his aides maintain that he won a mandate to overhaul Washington. But they maintain the specifics are his alone. “President Trump never had anything to do with Project 2025,” said Trump spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt in a statement. “All of President Trumps' Cabinet nominees and appointments are whole-heartedly committed to President Trump's agenda, not the agenda of outside groups.” Here is a look at what some of Trump's choices portend for his second presidency. The Office of Management and Budget director, a role Vought held under Trump previously and requires Senate confirmation, prepares a president's proposed budget and is generally responsible for implementing the administration's agenda across agencies. The job is influential but Vought made clear as author of a Project 2025 chapter on presidential authority that he wants the post to wield more direct power. “The Director must view his job as the best, most comprehensive approximation of the President’s mind,” Vought wrote. The OMB, he wrote, “is a President’s air-traffic control system” and should be “involved in all aspects of the White House policy process,” becoming “powerful enough to override implementing agencies’ bureaucracies.” Trump did not go into such details when naming Vought but implicitly endorsed aggressive action. Vought, the president-elect said, “knows exactly how to dismantle the Deep State” — Trump’s catch-all for federal bureaucracy — and would help “restore fiscal sanity.” In June, speaking on former Trump aide Steve Bannon’s “War Room” podcast, Vought relished the potential tension: “We’re not going to save our country without a little confrontation.” The strategy of further concentrating federal authority in the presidency permeates Project 2025's and Trump's campaign proposals. Vought's vision is especially striking when paired with Trump's proposals to dramatically expand the president's control over federal workers and government purse strings — ideas intertwined with the president-elect tapping mega-billionaire Elon Musk and venture capitalist Vivek Ramaswamy to lead a “Department of Government Efficiency.” Trump in his first term sought to remake the federal civil service by reclassifying tens of thousands of federal civil service workers — who have job protection through changes in administration — as political appointees, making them easier to fire and replace with loyalists. Currently, only about 4,000 of the federal government's roughly 2 million workers are political appointees. President Joe Biden rescinded Trump's changes. Trump can now reinstate them. Meanwhile, Musk's and Ramaswamy's sweeping “efficiency” mandates from Trump could turn on an old, defunct constitutional theory that the president — not Congress — is the real gatekeeper of federal spending. In his “Agenda 47,” Trump endorsed so-called “impoundment,” which holds that when lawmakers pass appropriations bills, they simply set a spending ceiling, but not a floor. The president, the theory holds, can simply decide not to spend money on anything he deems unnecessary. Vought did not venture into impoundment in his Project 2025 chapter. But, he wrote, “The President should use every possible tool to propose and impose fiscal discipline on the federal government. Anything short of that would constitute abject failure.” Trump's choice immediately sparked backlash. “Russ Vought is a far-right ideologue who has tried to break the law to give President Trump unilateral authority he does not possess to override the spending decisions of Congress (and) who has and will again fight to give Trump the ability to summarily fire tens of thousands of civil servants,” said Sen. Patty Murray of Washington, a Democrat and outgoing Senate Appropriations chairwoman. Reps. Jamie Raskin of Maryland and Melanie Stansbury of New Mexico, leading Democrats on the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, said Vought wants to “dismantle the expert federal workforce” to the detriment of Americans who depend on everything from veterans' health care to Social Security benefits. “Pain itself is the agenda,” they said. Trump’s protests about Project 2025 always glossed over overlaps in the two agendas . Both want to reimpose Trump-era immigration limits. Project 2025 includes a litany of detailed proposals for various U.S. immigration statutes, executive branch rules and agreements with other countries — reducing the number of refugees, work visa recipients and asylum seekers, for example. Miller is one of Trump's longest-serving advisers and architect of his immigration ideas, including his promise of the largest deportation force in U.S. history. As deputy policy chief, which is not subject to Senate confirmation, Miller would remain in Trump's West Wing inner circle. “America is for Americans and Americans only,” Miller said at Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally on Oct. 27. “America First Legal,” Miller’s organization founded as an ideological counter to the American Civil Liberties Union, was listed as an advisory group to Project 2025 until Miller asked that the name be removed because of negative attention. Homan, a Project 2025 named contributor, was an acting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement director during Trump’s first presidency, playing a key role in what became known as Trump's “family separation policy.” Previewing Trump 2.0 earlier this year, Homan said: “No one’s off the table. If you’re here illegally, you better be looking over your shoulder.” John Ratcliffe, Trump's pick to lead the CIA , was previously one of Trump's directors of national intelligence. He is a Project 2025 contributor. The document's chapter on U.S. intelligence was written by Dustin Carmack, Ratcliffe's chief of staff in the first Trump administration. Reflecting Ratcliffe's and Trump's approach, Carmack declared the intelligence establishment too cautious. Ratcliffe, like the chapter attributed to Carmack, is hawkish toward China. Throughout the Project 2025 document, Beijing is framed as a U.S. adversary that cannot be trusted. Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, wrote Project 2025's FCC chapter and is now Trump's pick to chair the panel. Carr wrote that the FCC chairman “is empowered with significant authority that is not shared” with other FCC members. He called for the FCC to address “threats to individual liberty posed by corporations that are abusing dominant positions in the market,” specifically “Big Tech and its attempts to drive diverse political viewpoints from the digital town square.” He called for more stringent transparency rules for social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube and “empower consumers to choose their own content filters and fact checkers, if any.” Carr and Ratcliffe would require Senate confirmation for their posts.No. 6 Purdue routs Marshall

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Bayer Leverkusen, on the other hand, will be eager to cause an upset and secure a vital victory against Inter Milan. The German side, under the guidance of manager Gerardo Seoane, will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Inter Milan defense and capitalize on their attacking prowess. Players like Patrik Schick, Florian Wirtz, and Moussa Diaby will be instrumental for Bayer Leverkusen as they seek to qualify for the knockout stages of the Champions League.

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As the news of Zhang Meng's prenatal examination encounter with Little Wu spread, fans and well-wishers took to social media to express their admiration for the heartwarming friendship between the two women. Many praised Little Wu for her dedication and care towards Zhang Meng, highlighting the importance of having a supportive network of friends and loved ones during pregnancy.No. 21 Creighton's Steven Ashworth doubtful for Players Era Festival opener against Aztecs

In a shocking turn of events, a young and talented Thai female singer recently passed away after being paralyzed for a month following a massage session. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder that even seemingly harmless activities like massages can carry risks, and it is crucial for individuals to be aware of these dangers.

3n means Numerology Predictions Today, December 12, 2024: Read your personalized forecast for numbers 1 to 9 Numerology, the mystical study of numbers and their influence on our lives, provides valuable insights into daily events and energies. Each number carries unique vibrations that guide our decisions, emotions, and interactions. Let’s uncover what the numbers 1 to 9 hold for you today, offering personalized forecasts to help you navigate the day with confidence and positivity. ​1 (Those born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th of any month are blessed with the Number 1) Today is a day for asserting your individuality and making decisions that define your path. You may find yourself in situations requiring your leadership and decisiveness. Whether it’s work-related or personal matters, your ability to articulate your ideas will be in the spotlight. The day may bring numerous errands, meetings, or phone calls, all demanding your full attention. Stay mindful of how you communicate—your confidence may inspire others, but be careful not to come across as domineering. Mentally, you are sharp and brimming with ideas, but impatience could lead to hasty decisions. Take a moment to evaluate the pros and cons before speaking or acting. This day is ideal for brainstorming and sharing your innovative concepts, as others are more receptive to your perspective. Channel your energy into productive endeavors, and you’ll find that your efforts pay off handsomely. Balance assertiveness with empathy to achieve optimal results. ​2 (Those born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, or 29th of any month are ruled by the Numerology number 2) Today could feel challenging as frustrations seem to mount, especially in your interactions with authority figures or colleagues. Patience is the key to navigating these temporary hurdles. Avoid pushing too hard for outcomes, as this might create unnecessary tension. Instead, focus on aligning your emotions and actions to foster understanding and collaboration. Your sensitivity might make you feel misunderstood or overshadowed, but remember, this is a passing phase. Use this time to reflect on your goals and reevaluate your strategies. Relationships may feel strained, but maintaining open and honest communication can prevent misunderstandings. You may find solace in artistic or spiritual pursuits, which can help ground your energy. While today might not bring immediate solutions, trust that the seeds you plant now will yield results in due time. Perseverance and a calm demeanor are your best tools today. ​3 (Those born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, or 30th of any month are ruled by the Numerology number 3) The day is ripe for expanding your mental horizons and exploring new ideas. Whether through books, conversations, or creative pursuits, you are likely to encounter fresh perspectives that excite and inspire you. Embrace opportunities to learn something new—it could be a skill, a philosophy, or even a new hobby. The energy around you is intellectually stimulating, and your natural curiosity is heightened. This is also a good day to share your thoughts with others. Your enthusiasm will be contagious, and your creative insights may spark innovation in your team or circle. However, avoid spreading yourself too thin; focus on what truly resonates with you. This period is not just about gaining knowledge but also about enjoying the journey of discovery. Trust your instincts, as they will guide you to the right opportunities. Remember to balance your mental pursuits with moments of relaxation to avoid burnout. ​4 (Those born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st of any given month are ruled by the Numerology number 4) Today calls for practicality and caution, especially when it comes to financial matters or speculative ventures. Avoid taking unnecessary risks, as the outcomes may not align with your expectations. This is not a day for shortcuts or relying on external forces to solve your problems; instead, focus on diligent effort and systematic planning. Your disciplined approach can be a source of strength. Prioritize tasks that require precision and attention to detail. While progress may seem slow, your steady efforts will yield solid results. It’s also a good time to reflect on your goals and ensure that they align with your values. Relationships may require extra patience, as minor misunderstandings could arise. Practice active listening and clear communication to maintain harmony. Remember, hard work and self-reliance are your keys to success today. Avoid distractions, stay focused, and trust the process. ​5 (Those born on the 5th, 14th, or 23rd of any month are ruled by the Numerology number 5) Today is buzzing with excitement and social energy, making it an ideal time for fun, adventure, and connecting with others. Your charismatic and spontaneous nature will shine, attracting interesting people and stimulating conversations. Whether it’s a romantic encounter or a casual hangout with friends, you are likely to enjoy yourself thoroughly. While the energy is light and playful, be mindful not to overindulge or neglect responsibilities. Balance is key to ensuring that your day remains productive as well as enjoyable. This is also a good time to explore new experiences or hobbies, as your adaptability and curiosity are heightened. If you are single, you may meet someone who sparks your interest. However, remember that the connections made today might be fleeting. Embrace the joy of the moment without clinging to outcomes. Keep the spirit of exploration alive, and let the day unfold naturally. ​6 (Those born on the 6th, 15th, or 24th of any month are ruled by the Numerology number 6) Today may feel like a day of low energy, where your motivation to tackle mundane tasks is at an all-time low. You might find yourself procrastinating or indulging in activities that provide instant gratification but lack long-term value. While it’s natural to have slower days, don’t let this lethargy derail your larger goals. Use this time for introspection and nurturing activities that replenish your emotional and physical well-being. Connecting with loved ones can bring comfort and joy. Avoid setting overly ambitious goals for the day; instead, focus on smaller, manageable tasks. A bit of self-discipline can help you regain momentum. Creative pursuits or hobbies that bring you pleasure could also be therapeutic. This day encourages you to strike a balance between rest and productivity. Recognize that taking time to recharge is just as important as achieving tangible results, so give yourself permission to pause and rejuvenate. ​7 (Those born on the 7th, 16th, or 25th of any month are ruled by the Numerology number 7) Today is a day for deep introspection and meaningful conversations. You may find yourself drawn to topics or issues that you have been avoiding for a while. Your mind is in an investigative mood, seeking clarity and truth. This could involve delving into unresolved matters in personal or professional relationships or exploring profound spiritual or philosophical questions. Take advantage of this probing mindset to address the core of any lingering concerns. Expressing your thoughts openly can pave the way for understanding and resolution, even if the conversations are uncomfortable. This day is also favorable for activities that require focus and analytical thinking. Solitude may feel particularly refreshing, allowing you to organize your thoughts and recharge your mental energy. While uncovering hidden truths can be enlightening, ensure that your approach is sensitive and empathetic to avoid conflict. Trust your instincts and embrace this transformative period. ​8 (Those born on the 8th, 17th, or 26th of any month are ruled by the Numerology number 8) A potential domestic or interpersonal crisis may arise today, testing your emotional resilience and decision-making skills. Tensions at home or within close relationships might stem from unresolved issues or misunderstandings. Avoid reacting impulsively, as this could exacerbate the situation. Instead, take time to reflect on your actions and assess how they may have contributed to the current circumstances. While the energy may feel heavy, it’s an opportunity for growth and healing. Use this day to practice patience, humility, and constructive communication. If you feel burdened by responsibilities, remember that you are capable of handling them with grace. This is also a good time to focus on long-term goals and strategies, as your practical mindset can help you navigate challenges effectively. By the end of the day, you may feel a sense of accomplishment, knowing you’ve taken steps toward resolving conflict and restoring balance in your environment. ​9 (Those born on the 9th, 18th, or 27th of any month are ruled by the Numerology number 9) You may experience a sense of disconnection or unease in your professional and personal environment today. It’s possible that your ideas or approach are not aligning with those around you, leading to moments of discomfort or frustration. While this can feel isolating, it’s an opportunity to reassess your priorities and find ways to bridge the gap between your perspective and others’. This day calls for patience and adaptability. Focus on listening and understanding rather than forcing your point of view. Your empathetic nature can help you navigate through disagreements and foster a sense of harmony. Take time for self-care and reflection, as this can help you regain your emotional balance. Artistic or creative outlets may provide a way to express yourself authentically and find joy amidst the day’s challenges. Trust that this temporary disharmony is paving the way for greater clarity and alignment in the days to come. 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Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save UNITY TOWNSHIP, Pa. — The team looking for a missing Pennsylvania woman believed to have fallen into a sinkhole has determined that an abandoned coal mine is too unstable for people to safely search underground, authorities said Wednesday while still expressing hope Elizabeth Pollard will be found alive. Rescue workers continue to search for Elizabeth Pollard, who is believed to have disappeared in a sinkhole while looking for her cat, Wednesday in Marguerite, Pa. Emergency crews and others have been trying to find Pollard, 64, for two days. Her relatives reported her missing early Tuesday and her vehicle with her unharmed 5-year-old granddaughter inside was found about two hours later, near what is thought to be a freshly opened sinkhole above the long closed, crumbling mine. Authorities said in a noon update that the roof of the mine collapsed in several places and is not stable. The sinkhole is in the village of Marguerite, about 40 miles east of Pittsburgh. “We did get, you know, where we wanted, where we thought that she was at. We’ve been to that spot," said Pleasant Unity Fire Chief John Bacha, the incident's operations officer. “What happened at that point, I don’t know, maybe the slurry of mud pushed her one direction. There were several different seams of that mine, shafts that all came together where this happened at.” People are also reading... The real reason Corvallis' Pastega Lights moved to Linn County City officials admit Corvallis' flag is 'bad.' Will it change? OSU football: Three takeaways from Oregon State's loss at Boise State Prosecutor: Driver on laughing gas caused double fatal in Sweet Home UPDATED: GAPS teacher strike NOT off after talks over returning to the classroom break down OSU women's basketball: Marotte takes a more aggressive approach on offense Recently made-over park sees this change after Albany got an earful Corvallis chemical manufacturer eyes Albany for expansion Agreement reached (again), GAPS teachers get new contract OSU football: Boise State's pass rush is formidable Strike to end, GAPS reaches tentative deal with Albany teachers Philomath moves forward following July Nazi flag controversy A false start: GAPS strike continues after district, teachers announce deal Philomath's Lumos among 6 wineries suing Pacific Power over wildfires OSU women's basketball: Beavers earn home win over Grambling State Trooper Cliff Greenfield said crews were still actively searching for Pollard. “We are hopeful that she’s found alive,” Greenfield said. Searchers were using electronic devices and cameras as surface digging continued with the use of heavy equipment, Bacha said. Search dogs may also be used. Rescue workers search through the night in a sinkhole for Elizabeth Pollard, who disappeared while looking for her cat, Tuesday in Marguerite, Pa. On Wednesday afternoon, machinery was removing material from the area around the hole while police and other government vehicles blocked a clear view of the scene. Sinkholes occur in the area because of subsidence from coal mining activity. Rescuers had been using water to break down and remove clay and dirt from the mine, which has been closed since the 1950s, but that increased the risk “for potential other mine subsidence to take place," Pennsylvania State Police spokesperson Trooper Steve Limani said. Crews lowered a pole camera with a sensitive listening device into the hole, but it detected nothing. Another camera lowered into the hole showed what could be a shoe about 30 feet below the surface, Limani said. Searchers have also deployed drones and thermal imaging equipment, to no avail. Marguerite Fire Chief Scot Graham, the incident commander, said access to the immediate area surrounding the hole was being tightly controlled and monitored, with rescuers attached by harness. The top of a sinkhole is seen Tuesday in the village of Marguerite, Pa., where rescuers searched for a woman who disappeared. “We cannot judge as to what’s going on underneath us. Again, you had a small hole on top but as soon as you stuck a camera down through to look, you had this big void,” Graham said. “And it was all different depths. The process is long, is tedious. We have to make sure that we are keeping safety in the forefront as well as the rescue effort.” Bacha said they were “hoping that there’s a void that she could still be in.” Pollard's family called police at about 1 a.m. Tuesday to say she had not been seen since going out at about 5 p.m. Monday to search for Pepper, her cat. The temperature dropped well below freezing that night. Her son, Axel Hayes, said Pollard is a happy woman who likes going out to have fun. She and her husband adopted Hayes and his twin brother when they were infants. Hayes called Pollard “a great person overall, a great mother” who “never really did anybody wrong.” He said at one point Pollard had about 10 cats. “Every cat that she’s ever come in contact with, she has a close bond with them,” Hayes said. His mother worked for many years at Walmart but recently was not employed, he said. “I’m just hoping right now that she’s still with us and she’s able to come back to us,” he said. Police said they found Pollard's car parked behind Monday's Union Restaurant in Marguerite, about 20 feet from the sinkhole. Hunters and restaurant workers in the area said they had not noticed the manhole-size opening in the hours before Pollard disappeared, leading rescuers to speculate that the sinkhole was new. “It almost feels like it opened up with her standing on top of it,” Limani said. Searchers accessed the mine late Tuesday afternoon and dug a separate entrance out of concern that the ground around the sinkhole opening was not stable. “Let’s be honest, we need to get a little bit lucky, right?” Limani said Wednesday. “We need a little bit of luck on our side. We need a little bit of God’s good blessing on our side.” Pollard lives in a small neighborhood across the street from where her car and granddaughter were located, Limani said. The young girl “nodded off in the car and woke up. Grandma never came back," Limani said. The child stayed in the car until two troopers rescued her. It's not clear what happened to Pepper. From field to fork: how America's farming revolution affects your plate and wallet From field to fork: how America's farming revolution affects your plate and wallet In an era of rapid technological advancement and environmental change, American agriculture is undergoing a revolution that reaches far beyond the farm gate. From the food on consumer plates to the economic health of rural communities, the transformation of U.S. farming practices is reshaping the nation's landscape in ways both visible and hidden. LandTrust explores how these changes impact everyone, whether they live in the heartland or the heart of the city. The Changing Face of American Farms The image of the small family farm, while still a reality for many, is increasingly giving way to larger, more technologically advanced operations. According to the USDA, the number of farms in the U.S. has fallen from 6.8 million in 1935 to about 2 million today, with the average farm size growing from 155 acres to 444 acres. This shift has profound implications for rural communities and the food system as a whole. Despite these changes, diversity in farming practices is on the rise. A landmark study published in Science , involving data from over 2,000 farms across 11 countries, found that diversifying farmland simultaneously delivers environmental and social benefits. This challenges the longstanding idea that practices boosting biodiversity must come at a cost to yields and food security. Technology Revolution on the Farm The adoption of precision agriculture technologies is transforming how farmers manage their land and resources. GPS-guided tractors, drone surveillance, and AI-powered crop management systems are becoming commonplace on many farms. These technologies allow farmers to apply water, fertilizers, and pesticides with pinpoint accuracy, reducing waste and environmental impact while improving yields. However, the digital divide remains a challenge. More than 22% of rural communities lack reliable broadband internet access, hindering the widespread implementation of AI and other advanced technologies in agriculture. The Economic Tightrope: Challenges Facing Modern Farmers While technology offers new opportunities, farmers are also facing significant economic challenges. The USDA's 2024 farm income forecast projects a 4.4% decline in net farm income from 2023, following a sharp 19.5% drop from 2022 to 2023. This financial pressure is compounded by rising production costs and market volatility. Climate variability adds another layer of complexity. Extreme weather events, changing precipitation patterns, and shifting growing seasons are forcing farmers to adapt quickly. These factors could reduce agricultural productivity by up to 25% over the coming decades without significant adaptation measures. But adapting requires additional financial resources, further straining farm profitability. Diversification: A Lifeline for American Farms In the face of these challenges, many farmers are turning to diversification as a strategy for resilience and profitability. The Science study mentioned earlier found that farms integrating several diversification methods supported more biodiversity while seeing simultaneous increases in human well-being and food security. Agritourism is one popular diversification strategy. In 2022, 28,600 U.S. farms reported agritourism income, averaging gross revenue of $44,000 from these activities. Activities like farm tours, pick-your-own operations, and seasonal festivals not only provide additional income but also foster a deeper connection between consumers and agriculture. From Farm to Table: The Consumer Connection The changing face of agriculture is directly impacting consumers. The rise of farm-to-table and local food movements reflects a growing interest in where our food comes from and how it's produced. If every U.S. household spent just $10 per week on locally grown food, it would generate billions of dollars for local economies. However, the larger challenges in agriculture can also lead to price fluctuations at the grocery store. The USDA's Economic Research Service projects that food-at-home prices will increase between 1.2% and 2.2% in 2024. The Future of Farming: Opportunities and Innovations Looking ahead, several innovations are poised to reshape agriculture: Sustainable farming practices : Cover cropping, no-till farming, and precision agriculture are gaining traction. These practices can reduce soil erosion by up to 90% compared to conventional tillage. Genetic engineering : CRISPR and other gene-editing technologies offer the potential to develop crops with enhanced nutritional profiles and resistance to pests and diseases. Alternative protein sources : The market for plant-based and lab-grown meat alternatives is projected to reach $30 billion by 2030. Conclusion: A Call to Action The transformation of American agriculture affects everyone, from the food we eat to the health of our environment and rural communities. Consumers have the power to support sustainable and diverse farming practices through our purchasing decisions. As citizens, they can advocate for policies that support farmers in adopting innovative and sustainable practices. The challenges facing agriculture are complex, but they also present opportunities for innovation and positive change. By understanding and engaging with these issues, everyone can play a part in shaping a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable food system for the future. This story was produced by LandTrust and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. Get local news delivered to your inbox!UNITY TOWNSHIP, Pa. — The team looking for a missing Pennsylvania woman believed to have fallen into a sinkhole has determined that an abandoned coal mine is too unstable for people to safely search underground, authorities said Wednesday while still expressing hope Elizabeth Pollard will be found alive. Rescue workers continue to search for Elizabeth Pollard, who is believed to have disappeared in a sinkhole while looking for her cat, Wednesday in Marguerite, Pa. Emergency crews and others have been trying to find Pollard, 64, for two days. Her relatives reported her missing early Tuesday and her vehicle with her unharmed 5-year-old granddaughter inside was found about two hours later, near what is thought to be a freshly opened sinkhole above the long closed, crumbling mine. Authorities said in a noon update that the roof of the mine collapsed in several places and is not stable. The sinkhole is in the village of Marguerite, about 40 miles east of Pittsburgh. “We did get, you know, where we wanted, where we thought that she was at. We’ve been to that spot," said Pleasant Unity Fire Chief John Bacha, the incident's operations officer. “What happened at that point, I don’t know, maybe the slurry of mud pushed her one direction. There were several different seams of that mine, shafts that all came together where this happened at.” Trooper Cliff Greenfield said crews were still actively searching for Pollard. “We are hopeful that she’s found alive,” Greenfield said. Searchers were using electronic devices and cameras as surface digging continued with the use of heavy equipment, Bacha said. Search dogs may also be used. Rescue workers search through the night in a sinkhole for Elizabeth Pollard, who disappeared while looking for her cat, Tuesday in Marguerite, Pa. On Wednesday afternoon, machinery was removing material from the area around the hole while police and other government vehicles blocked a clear view of the scene. Sinkholes occur in the area because of subsidence from coal mining activity. Rescuers had been using water to break down and remove clay and dirt from the mine, which has been closed since the 1950s, but that increased the risk “for potential other mine subsidence to take place," Pennsylvania State Police spokesperson Trooper Steve Limani said. Crews lowered a pole camera with a sensitive listening device into the hole, but it detected nothing. Another camera lowered into the hole showed what could be a shoe about 30 feet below the surface, Limani said. Searchers have also deployed drones and thermal imaging equipment, to no avail. Marguerite Fire Chief Scot Graham, the incident commander, said access to the immediate area surrounding the hole was being tightly controlled and monitored, with rescuers attached by harness. The top of a sinkhole is seen Tuesday in the village of Marguerite, Pa., where rescuers searched for a woman who disappeared. “We cannot judge as to what’s going on underneath us. Again, you had a small hole on top but as soon as you stuck a camera down through to look, you had this big void,” Graham said. “And it was all different depths. The process is long, is tedious. We have to make sure that we are keeping safety in the forefront as well as the rescue effort.” Bacha said they were “hoping that there’s a void that she could still be in.” Pollard's family called police at about 1 a.m. Tuesday to say she had not been seen since going out at about 5 p.m. Monday to search for Pepper, her cat. The temperature dropped well below freezing that night. Her son, Axel Hayes, said Pollard is a happy woman who likes going out to have fun. She and her husband adopted Hayes and his twin brother when they were infants. Hayes called Pollard “a great person overall, a great mother” who “never really did anybody wrong.” He said at one point Pollard had about 10 cats. “Every cat that she’s ever come in contact with, she has a close bond with them,” Hayes said. His mother worked for many years at Walmart but recently was not employed, he said. “I’m just hoping right now that she’s still with us and she’s able to come back to us,” he said. Police said they found Pollard's car parked behind Monday's Union Restaurant in Marguerite, about 20 feet from the sinkhole. Hunters and restaurant workers in the area said they had not noticed the manhole-size opening in the hours before Pollard disappeared, leading rescuers to speculate that the sinkhole was new. “It almost feels like it opened up with her standing on top of it,” Limani said. Searchers accessed the mine late Tuesday afternoon and dug a separate entrance out of concern that the ground around the sinkhole opening was not stable. “Let’s be honest, we need to get a little bit lucky, right?” Limani said Wednesday. “We need a little bit of luck on our side. We need a little bit of God’s good blessing on our side.” Pollard lives in a small neighborhood across the street from where her car and granddaughter were located, Limani said. The young girl “nodded off in the car and woke up. Grandma never came back," Limani said. The child stayed in the car until two troopers rescued her. It's not clear what happened to Pepper. In an era of rapid technological advancement and environmental change, American agriculture is undergoing a revolution that reaches far beyond the farm gate. From the food on consumer plates to the economic health of rural communities, the transformation of U.S. farming practices is reshaping the nation's landscape in ways both visible and hidden. LandTrust explores how these changes impact everyone, whether they live in the heartland or the heart of the city. The image of the small family farm, while still a reality for many, is increasingly giving way to larger, more technologically advanced operations. According to the USDA, the number of farms in the U.S. has fallen from 6.8 million in 1935 to about 2 million today, with the average farm size growing from 155 acres to 444 acres. This shift has profound implications for rural communities and the food system as a whole. Despite these changes, diversity in farming practices is on the rise. A landmark study published in Science , involving data from over 2,000 farms across 11 countries, found that diversifying farmland simultaneously delivers environmental and social benefits. This challenges the longstanding idea that practices boosting biodiversity must come at a cost to yields and food security. The adoption of precision agriculture technologies is transforming how farmers manage their land and resources. GPS-guided tractors, drone surveillance, and AI-powered crop management systems are becoming commonplace on many farms. These technologies allow farmers to apply water, fertilizers, and pesticides with pinpoint accuracy, reducing waste and environmental impact while improving yields. However, the digital divide remains a challenge. More than 22% of rural communities lack reliable broadband internet access, hindering the widespread implementation of AI and other advanced technologies in agriculture. While technology offers new opportunities, farmers are also facing significant economic challenges. The USDA's 2024 farm income forecast projects a 4.4% decline in net farm income from 2023, following a sharp 19.5% drop from 2022 to 2023. This financial pressure is compounded by rising production costs and market volatility. Climate variability adds another layer of complexity. Extreme weather events, changing precipitation patterns, and shifting growing seasons are forcing farmers to adapt quickly. These factors could reduce agricultural productivity by up to 25% over the coming decades without significant adaptation measures. But adapting requires additional financial resources, further straining farm profitability. In the face of these challenges, many farmers are turning to diversification as a strategy for resilience and profitability. The Science study mentioned earlier found that farms integrating several diversification methods supported more biodiversity while seeing simultaneous increases in human well-being and food security. Agritourism is one popular diversification strategy. In 2022, 28,600 U.S. farms reported agritourism income, averaging gross revenue of $44,000 from these activities. Activities like farm tours, pick-your-own operations, and seasonal festivals not only provide additional income but also foster a deeper connection between consumers and agriculture. The changing face of agriculture is directly impacting consumers. The rise of farm-to-table and local food movements reflects a growing interest in where our food comes from and how it's produced. If every U.S. household spent just $10 per week on locally grown food, it would generate billions of dollars for local economies. However, the larger challenges in agriculture can also lead to price fluctuations at the grocery store. The USDA's Economic Research Service projects that food-at-home prices will increase between 1.2% and 2.2% in 2024. Looking ahead, several innovations are poised to reshape agriculture: The transformation of American agriculture affects everyone, from the food we eat to the health of our environment and rural communities. Consumers have the power to support sustainable and diverse farming practices through our purchasing decisions. As citizens, they can advocate for policies that support farmers in adopting innovative and sustainable practices. The challenges facing agriculture are complex, but they also present opportunities for innovation and positive change. By understanding and engaging with these issues, everyone can play a part in shaping a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable food system for the future. This story was produced by LandTrust and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

Lawmakers edge closer to deal on government funding

( MENAFN - GetNews) A dialogue on green and low-carbon development co-hosted by the Belt and Road Initiative International Green Development Coalition (BRIGC) and the Chongqing Municipal Bureau of Ecology and Environment was held in Chongqing on Wednesday. Experts in the field of green development from countries such as Indonesia and Pakistan, heads of institutions including the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency and the China Quality Certification Center, and professionals in the field of ecology and environment in Chongqing gathered together to discuss and offer suggestions on leveraging collective strengths to advance green and low-carbon development under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Need for collaboration to advance green and low-carbon development of BRI Green development is fundamental to the BRI, injecting vibrant energy into the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. As the first international environmental protection association under the BRI framework, the BRIGC has gathered the collective strength of over 170 partner organizations, becoming an important multilateral cooperation platform in the field of green development of the BRI. Over the years, it has actively promoted policy dialogues, technical exchanges, capacity building, and joint research. Cui Dandan, Secretary-General of the BRIGC, stated that advancing green and low-carbon development of the BRI requires joint efforts from all parties. The BRIGC will continue to act as a bridge, aligning with the development needs of the Belt and Road partner countries, relying on initiatives such as green development investment and financing partnerships, a network of green and low-carbon experts, and the BRI Eco-Environmental Talent Exchange Program. It will build international exchange and cooperation platforms for local governments and enterprises, guiding businesses and financial institutions to engage in more green investment and construction practices, and helping green projects take root in partner countries to share the fruits of green development. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project of the BRI, exemplified the integration of green development principles, consistently promoting green growth and sustainable development in Pakistan. Mustafa Hyder Sayed, Executive Director of the Pakistan-China Institute, highlighted the BRI as a highly effective cooperation mechanism with businesses playing a crucial role. He encouraged businesses worldwide to initiate small-scale green demonstration projects to gain experience and advance the green and low-carbon transition. Chongqing's unique advantages in green and low-carbon international cooperation Chongqing proposed to build a pilot zone for a Beautiful China Initiative, taking the lead in the large-scale development and protection of the western region, and serving as a model for ecological priority and green development in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, as well as a pioneer in high-quality development. The establishment of the Leading Group for the Construction of a Beautiful Chongqing, the issuance of the "Action Plan for the Construction of a Beautiful Chongqing", the integrated promotion of the "Nine Treatments" environmental governance, the continuous implementation of the "1+2+6+N" policy system in the "dual carbon" field, along with the innovative construction of the "Carbon Benefit Pass" platform... Liu Qin, Deputy Director of the Chongqing Municipal Bureau of Ecology and Environment, introduced that in recent years, Chongqing has laid a solid foundation for green and low-carbon development through high-level protection, comprehensively constructing green and low-carbon development systems and mechanisms, promoting the formation of green and low-carbon production and lifestyle, and accelerating the creation of a model for green and low-carbon development of the manufacturing industry in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. The BRI is not only a path to economic prosperity but also a path to green development. Zhou Yi, Deputy Director of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government, noted that Chongqing has unique advantages in participating in green Silk Road international cooperation in terms of strategic position, diverse scenarios for implementation, pilot demonstration projects, scientific research talents, and open connectivity. Chongqing is building itself into a central international exchange hub in the central and western regions, connecting ASEAN and Eurasia and the world, with a broad prospect for international cooperation in green and low-carbon development. According to Cai Hongbo, General Manager of Chongqing Credit Information Center, the“Carbon Benefit Pass” platform has already registered over 3.5 million individual users and has cumulatively established nearly 20 low-carbon application scenarios, with the platform's construction showing initial success. Li Xingwang, General Manager of the Phoenix Smart Factory of Seres Automobile, introduced that as a representative enterprise of green and low-carbon development in the Chongqing new energy vehicle industry, Seres has integrated green concepts into the entire lifecycle of its products through technological innovation, ecological integration, and corporate governance, continuously promoting the low-carbon development of the automotive industry. Another Chongqing-based company, Sanfeng Environment, shared its achievements and experience in waste-to-energy incineration as a form of green electricity and resource recycling, arousing great interest among the participants. Leveraging platforms to gather resources for practical green and low-carbon cooperation Cui Dandan expressed her expectation of future cooperation with Chongqing in the field of green and low-carbon development under the BRI, relying on high-level events such as the Belt and Road Green Innovation Conference, the China Corner Side Event of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and the "Green Silk Road Journey" international communication activities, to share the story of the construction of a Beautiful Chongqing with the international community. Liu Jiang, Director of the China Quality Certification Center, stated that he hoped to promote the pilot implementation of green and low-carbon development in the Chengdu-Chongqing region through various means such as technical exchanges and project cooperation, making it a model for green development under the BRI. Chen Peichang, CEO of the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency, said that the agency was willing to work with financial institutions to design innovative green financial products tailored to the needs of the Chinese mainland, attract domestic and foreign investors to participate in more green projects, and support enterprises in making precise decisions during green transformation. International experts at the dialogue believed that China's practical experience in green and low-carbon development was worthy of reference. Fabby Tumiwa, Executive Director of the Indonesia Infrastructure Reform Institute, said that China's active response to climate change and pursuit of green and low-carbon development were not merely theoretical but were demonstrably implemented through concrete projects. Mustafa Hyder Sayed also echoed this sentiment, citing Chongqing's green and low-carbon development practices as a compelling example for other countries and encouraging businesses in various countries to learn from China's experience to promote international cooperation on green projects. (Contributed by Wang Songtao and Zhou Kai) MENAFN16122024003238003268ID1108999837 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. 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Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Has $1.58 Million Stock Position in Adient plc (NYSE:ADNT)Compendium of geothermal bit behavior may help drive down drilling time

Cop29 secures last minute $300bn climate finance deal as talks saved from collapse

Gun found on suspect in killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO matches shell casings at scene, police say ALTOONA, Pa. (AP) — New York City’s police commissioner says the gun found on the suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO matches shell casings found at the crime scene. Commissioner Jessica Tisch also said Wednesday that lab results matched suspect Luigi Mangione’s prints to a water bottle and a snack bar wrapper found near the scene of the killing. Police had said earlier that they believed the gunman bought the items at a nearby coffee shop while awaiting his target. Mangione is jailed in Pennsylvania on weapon and forgery charges, but he also has been charged in New York with murder in Brian Thompson's death. His lawyer has noted that Mangione is presumed innocent. Authorities are scrutinizing evidence and the suspect’s experiences with the health care industry. Arguments over whether Luigi Mangione is a 'hero' offer a glimpse into an unusual American moment Memes and online posts in support of 26-year-old Luigi Mangione, who's charged with killing UnitedHealthcare's CEO, have mushroomed online. Some cast Mangione as a hero. That's too far, says Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a rising Democrat who was almost the Democratic vice presidential nominee this year. CEO Brian Thompson's death touched off off these ripples. They offer a glimpse into how so many different aspects of 21st-century life can be surreally connected, from public violence to politics, from health care to humor, or attempts at it. FBI Director Wray says he intends to resign before Trump takes office in January WASHINGTON (AP) — FBI Director Christopher Wray says he plans to resign at the end of President Joe Biden’s term in January. The announcement Wednesday comes a week and a half after President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate loyalist Kash Patel for the position. His impending resignation will bring him three years short of the completion of a 10-year term during which he tried to keep the FBI out of politics even as the bureau found itself entangled in a string of explosive investigations. Trump applauded the news Wednesday, saying it will end the weaponization of what he called the “Department of Injustice.” Donald Trump will ring the New York Stock Exchange bell as he's named Time's Person of the Year NEW YORK (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump is expected to ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange for the first time and be named Time magazine's Person of the Year. Thursday's events will be a notable moment of twin recognitions for Trump, a born-and-bred New Yorker who has long seen praise from the business world and media as a sign of success. Four people with knowledge of his plans told The Associated Press that Trump was expected to be on Wall Street on Thursday to mark the ceremonial start of the day's trading, while a person familiar with the selection confirmed that Trump had been selected as Time's Person of the Year. The Trump and Biden teams insist they're working hand in glove on foreign crises WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump doesn’t think much of Joe Biden’s foreign policy record. He frequently casts the outgoing Democratic president as a feckless leader who shredded American credibility around the world during his four-year term. But the Trump and Biden national security teams have come to an understanding that they have no choice but to work together as conflicts in Gaza, Syria and Ukraine have left a significant swath of the world on a knife’s edge. It’s fuzzy how much common ground Biden and Trump’s teams have found as they navigate crises that threaten to cause more global upheaval as Trump prepares to settle back into the White House. Syrians flock to morgues looking for loved ones who perished in Assad's prisons DAMASCUS (AP) — Many bodies have been found in Syrian detention centers and prisons since President Bashar al-Assad's government fell. Now Syrians around the world are circulating images of the corpses in hopes that they will see slain loved ones whose fate had been a mystery. At the morgue visited by The Associated Press on Wednesday in Damascus, families flocked to a wall where some of the pictures were pinned in a haunting gallery of the dead. Relatives desperately scanned the images for a recognizable face. Some of the prisoners died just weeks ago. Others perished months earlier. US warns Russia may be ready to use new lethal missile against Ukraine again in 'coming days' WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon says Russia could launch its lethal new intermediate-range ballistic missile against Ukraine again soon. Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh cited a U.S. intelligence assessment in telling reporters on Wednesday that an attack could come “in the coming days.” She says the U.S. does not consider the Oreshnik missile a game changer on the battlefield. But that Russia is using the weapon to intimidate Ukraine as both sides wrestle for an advantage that will give them leverage in any negotiations to end the war. The Russian Defense Ministry also is warning it may retaliate against Kyiv for an attack on a military base in the Rostov region in southern Russia on Wednesday. Israeli strikes on Gaza kill at least 33 including children, Palestinian medics say DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Palestinian medical officials say Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip have killed at least 33 people. One of the strikes hit a home where displaced people were sheltering in the isolated north, killing 19. A separate strike outside nearby Kamal Adwan Hospital killed a woman and her two children, and another strike in central Gaza killed at least seven people. Israel's military says it tries to avoid harming civilians and accuses militants of hiding among them, putting their lives in danger. Local health officials say Israel’s retaliatory offensive after the Hamas attack on Oct. 7, 2023 has killed over 44,000 Palestinians in Gaza. Hannah Kobayashi, missing Hawaii woman whose disappearance prompted a massive search, is found safe LOS ANGELES (AP) — Hannah Kobayashi has been found safe. That’s according to the Los Angeles Police Department. Kobayashi vanished last month in Los Angeles. The missing Hawaii woman's disappearance prompted a massive search and a missing persons investigation. It was not immediately clear where she was found, but police previously said she had voluntarily crossed the border into Mexico. The LAPD said Wednesday the department will wrap up its investigation. Kobayashi's family reported her missing to law enforcement on Nov. 11 after relatives received “strange and cryptic, just alarming” text messages. Kobayashi’s mother and sister said they are “grateful” she has been found safe. Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 World Cup. But when exactly? ZURICH (AP) — Saudi Arabia scored a major win in its campaign to attract major sports events to the kingdom when it was formally appointed as the 2034 World Cup host on Wednesday. Still, many questions remain about the tournament. Key issues include during which part of the year to stage the tournament, where to play the games, whether alcohol will be allowed at all and how to protect workers rights in the massive construction projects required to host the World Cup.VeryDarkMan Fires Back At Iyabo Ojo, Targets Daughter, Partner In Heated FeudNotable quotes by Jimmy Carter

After stumps today the player of the match will be awarded the Johnny Mullagh Medal. Who was Johnny Unaarrim Mullagh? And why do we celebrate him in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG? Angus Fontaine’s story today has some answers – but also a few questions. South Africa’s cricketers celebrated overnight, putting the sword through Pakistan and booking themselves a berth in the World Test Championship. Will India or Australia meet them in the Big Dance? The best bit of yesterday was Bumrah’s wrecking ball through the middle order. It was outrageous quality, and deserved to give India a smaller target. But the others couldn’t finish the job. Good Melbourne morning to you, wherever you are in the world. Day 5 from the Melbourne Cricket ground, and we are set up for a belter – although Australia’s final-wicket partnership last night tilted this match further in one direction than a neutral would choose for the perfect setup. At 2 down and 185 ahead, the game looked comfortably Australia’s. Minutes later, at 4 down and 196 ahead, India had stolen that advantage. Labuschagne and Cummins got that Australian lead back on track, and when the last pair came together at 278 ahead, we felt set for a lead of about 280 which would have been perfect. But 55 runs between Lyon and Boland, inexplicably, has taken that out to 333. That already seems like too many for India to chase in a day. And the partnership isn’t over yet, we’ll find out soon whether Australia will declare overnight or bat on. Nonetheless, even if the Indian win is too big an ask, saving the game is entirely possible, and going to Sydney 1-1 would be the result. Winner takes all, there, or draw it and India keep the trophy. So, plenty for the visitors to play for today, whether or not they decide to bat aggressively. It’ll be tough going on a fifth-day pitch. Stay with us all day, we’ll keep you posted.Behavior Analytics Market Growing Trends, Business Growth, Size, Future Scope, Segmentation, Dynamics And Forecast To 2029

The weird history of our dangerous relationship with uranium

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BEIRUT (AP) — Syria’s embassy in Lebanon suspended consular services Saturday, a day after two relatives of were arrested at the Beirut airport with allegedly forged passports. Also on Saturday, Lebanese authorities handed over dozens of Syrians — including former officers in the Syrian army under Assad — to the new Syrian authorities after they were caught illegally entering Lebanon, a war monitor and Lebanese officials said. The embassy announced on its Facebook page that consular work was suspended “until further notice” at the order of the Syrian foreign ministry. The announcement did not give a reason for the suspension. Two Lebanese security officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly, said the suspension was ordered because the at the embassy. Assad’s uncle, Rifaat Assad — who has been indicted in Switzerland on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity — had flown out the day before on his real passport and was not stopped, the officials said. The U.K.-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported Saturday that 70 Syrians, including former army officers, were handed over by a Lebanese security delegation to the security forces of the new Syrian government, led by the former insurgent group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS. Three Lebanese judicial officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the report. Regional countries have been quick to establish ties with Syria’s new rulers. Delegations of Libyan and Bahraini officials arrived in Damascus on Saturday on official visits. HTS leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, has largely succeeded in calming fears within and outside of Syria that his group would unleash collective punishment against communities that supported Assad’s rule or attempt to impose strict Islamic law on the country’s religious minorities. However, in recent days, sporadic clashes have broken out between the HTS-led security forces and pro-Assad armed groups. The country’s new security forces have launched a series of raids targeting officials affiliated with Assad and have set up checkpoints in areas with significant populations of the Alawite religious minority to which the former president belongs to search for weapons. There have also been ongoing tensions and clashes in northeastern Syria between Kurdish-led forces and armed groups backed by Turkey. Many Kurds have viewed the new order in Damascus, which appears to have strengthened Turkey’s hand in Syria, with anxiety. Ankara sees the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces — a key U.S. ally in the fight against the Islamic State group — as an affiliate of its sworn enemy, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK, which it classifies as a terrorist organization. The U.S. State Department said Saturday that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had spoken with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to “discuss the latest developments in Syria.” “Secretary Blinken emphasized the need to support a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process that upholds human rights and prioritizes an inclusive and representative government,” the statement said, adding that they “also discussed the shared goal of preventing terrorism from endangering the security” of Turkey and Syria. On Saturday, hundreds of protesters convened by Kurdish women’s groups participated in a demonstration in the northeastern city of Hasaka to demand women’s rights in the new Syria. Perishan Ramadan, a participant from Hasaka, said the new government “is worse than Bashar” and that its leaders are Islamist extremists who “don’t accept any role for women.” While the country’s new leaders have not attempted to impose Islamic dress or other conventions, it remains to be seen what role women will have in the new order and whether they will hold political or government positions. "Women must be present in the new constitution for Syria,” said Rihan Loqo, spokeswoman for the Kongra Star women’s organization. "... Women’s rights should not be ignored.” ___ Associated Press writers Hogir Abdo in Hasaka, Syria, and Ellen Knickmeyer in Washington contributed to this report. Abby Sewell, The Associated Press( MENAFN - EIN Presswire) Enterprise Search Market Digital transformation, diverse data, e-commerce document solutions, and chatbots drive global market growth, boosting expansion ahead. David Correa Allied Market Research +1 800-792-5285 email us here Visit us on social media: Facebook X Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content "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 author above. MENAFN29122024003118003196ID1109040151 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.

Rampart Casino announced the launch of Rampart Online. LAS VEGAS – Rampart Casino today announced the launch of Rampart Online, bringing fast-paced 5 Card Draw Poker to mobile devices across Nevada. For the first time ever, this new multiplayer app lets anyone play real-money games anytime, anywhere in the state, featuring rapid-fire action and unique enhanced payouts – including Royal Flush bonuses up to $4,500, Four of a Kind payouts up to $175, and much more. “Our customers are always looking for new ways to connect with us, and now we’re excited to offer 5 Card Draw Poker in a fast-paced, mobile-first format that our players can’t get enough of,” said Michelle McHugh, vice president and general manager at Rampart Casino. “This launch represents our commitment to bringing innovative gaming experiences to Nevada players.” To celebrate the December launch, new players can receive a free $10 with a minimum deposit (see full rules). The app is available now on the App Store and Google Play Store . Through a partnership with Real Gaming, one of Nevada’s first licensed iGaming operators, Rampart Online brings trusted, state-of-the-art gaming technology to players across Nevada. “We’ve always focused on product and player experience, and this is the culmination of that commitment to excellence,” said Lawrence Vaughan, co-founder of Real Gaming. “Players have been asking us for this for some time. It’s a real paradigm shift. We believe players won’t want to miss this exciting new way to play.” ### About Rampart Casino Recently honored with six accolades from Strictly Slots Magazine’s “Best of Slots” awards and voted one of the “Top 3 Las Vegas Casinos” by USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards, the elegant 50,000-square-foot Rampart Casino offers more than 1,300 slot machines, two dozen gaming tables, a 300-seat Bingo Room and a Race & Sports Book. 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About JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. These elegant hotels cater to sophisticated, self-assured travelers seeking The JW TreatmentTM – the brand’s philosophy that true luxury is created by people who are passionate about what they do. JW hotels offer crafted experiences that bring to life the brand’s commitment to highly choreographed, anticipatory service and modern residential design, allowing guests to pursue their passions and leave even more fulfilled than when they arrived. Today there are 80 JW Marriott hotels in nearly 30 countries and territories. JW Marriott is proud to participate in the industry’s award-winning loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®. Members can now link accounts with Starwood Preferred Guest® at members.marriott.com for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer. Visit JW Marriott online , and on Instagram , and Facebook . About Real Gaming – Co-founded by South Point Casino owner Michael Gaughan and technology entrepreneur Lawrence Vaughan, Real Gaming is Nevada’s leading iGaming operator. Through its exclusive Real Gaming Network, the company delivers innovative and player-first experiences to its customers. Download App App Store or Google Play Store For more information, please contact press@realgaming.com . RelatedFBI Director Wray says he intends to resign before Trump takes office in JanuaryPlaudits for Jimmy Carter across US political divide

Fox News justice correspondent David Spunt reflects on the life and legacy of former President Jimmy Carter on ‘Fox News Live.’ President-elect Trump and President Biden reacted to the death of former President Jimmy Carter on Sunday, with Trump saying, "we all owe him a debt of gratitude," and Biden honoring his "dear friend." Carter, who was the 39th president of the United States and a peanut farmer whose vision of a "competent and compassionate" government propelled him into the White House, died at his home in Plains, Georgia, on Sunday at the age of 100. "I just heard of the news about the passing of President Jimmy Carter. Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as President understand this is a very exclusive club, and only we can relate to the enormous responsibility of leading the Greatest Nation in History," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude. "Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers," the incoming president added. JIMMY CARTER, 39TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, DEAD AT 100 Former President Jimmy Carter discusses his cancer diagnosis during a press conference at the Carter Center on August 20, 2015 in Atlanta, Georgia. Carter confirmed that he has melanoma that has spread to his liver and brain and will start treatment today. (Jessica McGowan/Getty Images) Also weighing in was President Biden, who said, "the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian." "Over six decades, we had the honor of calling Jimmy Carter a dear friend. But, what’s extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well," Biden wrote. "With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us. He saved, lifted, and changed the lives of people all across the globe." Biden referred to Carter as a man of great character and courage, hope and optimism. FORMER PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER TO SPEND 'REMAINING TIME' AT HOME RECEIVING HOSPICE CARE U.S. President Jimmy Carter announces new sanctions against Iran in retaliation for taking U.S. Hostages, Washington, D.C., USA, photograph by Marion S. Trikosko, April 7, 1980. (Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) He also said he and his wife will cherish seeing Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, together, noting that the love between the two is the "definition of partnership," while their leadership is the definition of "patriotism." "We will miss them both dearly, but take solace knowing they are reunited once again and will remain forever in our hearts," Biden said . "To the entire Carter family, we send our gratitude for sharing them with America and the world. To their staff – from the earliest days to the final ones – we have no doubt that you will continue to do the good works that carry on their legacy. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "And to all of the young people in this nation and for anyone in search of what it means to live a life of purpose and meaning – the good life – study Jimmy Carter, a man of principle, faith, and humility. He showed that we are great nation because we are a good people – decent and honorable, courageous and compassionate, humble and strong," Biden added. Greg Wehner is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital. Story tips and ideas can be sent to Greg.Wehner@Fox.com and on Twitter @GregWehner.

Greg Gumbel, a longtime CBS sportscaster who broke barriers during his career calling some of the biggest sporting events, has died from cancer, according to a statement from his family released by the network on Friday. He was 78. "He leaves behind a legacy of love, inspiration and dedication to over 50 extraordinary years in the sports broadcast industry; and his iconic voice will never be forgotten," wife Marcy Gumbel and daughter Michelle Gumbel said in a statement. In March, Gumbel missed his first NCAA Tournament since 1997 due to what he said at the time were family health issues. Gumbel was the studio host for CBS since returning to the network from NBC in 1998. Gumbel signed an extension with CBS last year that allowed him to continue hosting college basketball while stepping back from NFL announcing duties. In 2001, he announced Super Bowl 35 for CBS, becoming the first Black announcer in the U.S. to call play-by-play of a major sports championship. David Berson, president and CEO of CBS Sports, described Gumbel as someone who broke barriers and set standards for others during his years as a voice for fans in sports, including in the NFL and March Madness. "A tremendous broadcaster and gifted storyteller, Greg led one of the most remarkable and groundbreaking sports broadcasting careers of all time," Berson said. Gumbel had two stints at CBS, leaving the network for NBC when it lost football in 1994 and returning when it regained the contract in 1998. Sean McManus said of all the moves he made in his nearly 27 1/2 years leading CBS Sports, one of his proudest was bringing Gumbel back. "Not only did he elevate our NFL and NCAA coverage to a new level, but his kindness, generosity, sense of humor and unselfishness were second to none. When he was around, he made everyone from the researchers to the technicians to the executives feel like he was their best friend," said McManus, who retired as CBS Sports chairman in April. "His love for his family was always the foundation of his life. There will never be another Greg Gumbel, and our industry and this world is a sadder place without him." Gumbel hosted CBS' coverage of the 1992 and 1994 Winter Olympics and called Major League Baseball games during its four-year run broadcasting the national pastime. In 1995, he hosted the world figure skating championships and the following year hosted NBC's daytime coverage of the Atlanta Summer Olympics. But it was football and basketball where he was best known and made his biggest impact. Gumbel hosted CBS' NFL studio show, "The NFL Today," from 1990 to 1993 and again in 2004-05. Earlier this year, Gumbel recalled replacing Brent Musburger as host of "The NFL Today" in 1990, describing it as intimidating and daunting. "The fact that I got to sit in the same chair and do the same thing or try to do the same thing that he did was an incredible honor," he said. Gumbel also called NFL games as the network's lead play-by-play announcer from 1998 to 2003, including Super Bowl 35 and 38. He returned to the NFL booth in 2005, leaving that role after the 2022 season. "Like all who knew and loved him, I too am saddened by his death, yet also so very grateful to have known him in my life," Clark Kellogg, a CBS Sports college basketball game and studio analyst, said in a statement. "What a gift to be touched by such a good man and partner." Gumbel was the older brother of Bryant Gumbel, the host of NBC's "Today" show and "Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel" on HBO. Bryant Gumbel received a lifetime achievement award at the Sports Emmys in 2003. Greg Gumbel grew up in Chicago and graduated from Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa, in 1967 with a degree in English. He had plans to become an English teacher, but after his brother got into sportscasting, he auditioned at WMAQ-TV, an NBC affiliate in Chicago in 1973, according to the book "You Are Looking Live!: How The NFL Today Revolutionized Sports Broadcasting." He was soon offered a position as weekend sports anchor. "I'm kind of surprised I got the job. I certainly wasn't anyone who was polished," he said in the book. "By my own reckoning, it took me a good year to start to feel comfortable in front of a camera." Gumbel also worked for ESPN and the Madison Square Garden network. James Brown, who currently hosts "The NFL Today," described Gumbel on Friday as "Mr. Versatility and also very telegenic." "It was my pleasure to call him a friend and one who could do anything that was given to him in the wake of an assignment," he added. Gumbel won local Emmy Awards during his long career and was the recipient of the 2007 Pat Summerall Award for excellence in sports broadcasting. Outside of his broadcast career, he was affiliated with the March of Dimes for three decades, including as a member of its board of trustees. He also was a member of the Sports Council for St Jude's Children's Research Hospital for 16 years. Associated Press Reporter Mike Sisak and Sports Writer Joe Reedy contributed to this report.Brock Purdy will miss Sunday's game for the 49ers with a shoulder injury

A Queens public high-school teacher created a creepy “escape room” where he allegedly sexually abused a female student, according to a troubling new report. Scott Biski, a music teacher at Jamaica Gateway to the Sciences High School, also invited the girl to his home — calling it “the bat cave” — for sex when his wife and two kids were not home, investigators allege. Biski, 50, began “grooming” the student when she was 14, a sophomore, and it culminated when she was a senior into “a sexual relationship,” charges a report by the Special Commissioner of Investigation for city schools. “I now understand that these weird hugs, embraces were actually just groping,” the now 25-year-old ex-student told investigators in 2022. “He was touching me for sexual pleasure without my consent.” Biski arranged “makeshift dividers and old desks” in his music classroom and office, inviting students to hang out in his “escape room.” There, Biski touched the student’s breasts and tried to kiss her, prompting the girl to pull away and “promptly” leave, the report says. Biski would also invite the girl to his home to play board games with other kids. Once, she arrived to find she was the only student there, the report says. Biski also gave the girl lavish gifts, such as a flute that was only supposed to be lent to students, his favorite childhood book, new clothes and cash, including $200 for Ugg boots, it says. The SCI found that he messaged the teen nearly 700 times, 82 times during school. Biski told the girl to save his number under a fake name – “Arthur Dent” — “so as to not arouse suspicion,” she told investigators. Another student told SCI he believed the alias was “Harvey Dent,” a Batman villain whose alter ego was “Two-Face.” Biski forcibly kissed and groped the student in his school office and forced her to touch his erection, telling her, “That’s how you make me feel,” according to court documents and the SCI report. Biski assigned the student to play lead flute in the school band, gave her coveted solos and wrote “outstanding” college recommendation letters for her, she said. “These were things he did as a part of his grooming process,” she said. Once she graduated, she told investigators, Biski would allegedly “pester” her into coming to his house when his wife and two kids were gone to engage in sex acts. And the perverted texts continued. “No Halloween party? No slut outfit?” he texted her during her first year in college. “No ‘I’m little red riding hood the whore.'” On another occasion, he wrote, “I have risked everything for you. My job. My home. My kids. Everything.” The student told investigators she was “disgusted” by his behavior because she saw Biski as a “father figure.” The NYPD closed a criminal case against Biski because the student said the sexual contact was consensual and occurred after she turned 17, but the teacher’s behavior was “egregious, manipulative, and predatory,” the SCI charged. After the student came forward in June 2022, the city Department of Education removed Biski from Gateway, but he remained on the city payroll until last year, collecting $99,578 in fiscal year 2024, records show. He has “irrevocably resigned,” a DOE spokeswoman said. Besides recommending Biski’s termination, SCI called on the DOE to amend its guidelines on teachers using private phone numbers to text kids. The SCI has repeatedly urged the DOE to ban employees from contacting students’ cell phones and social media accounts. In the past five years, it has found at least 89 cases of DOE employees having inappropriate conversations with students via text and online. Last year, the 25-year-old former student filed a lawsuit, charging Biski with harassment and sexual assault. In June, Biski sued the DOE for denying him legal representation. Lawyers for Biski did not respond to inquiries.

The LTA is updating its transgender and non-binary participation policy, but this will not affect entry into Wimbledon or ITF, WTA or ATP tournaments staged in the UK. The policy applies solely to British domestic inter-club competitions. The rules for tour events will continue to be set by the relevant governing body. From 25 January, transgender women, who were recorded male at birth, will not be eligible to compete in female events in higher graded competitions, which usually involve individuals taking on players from another club or county. The rules do not extend to events taking place between players from just one venue - such as a club championship or a weekend social tournament.... Russell Fuller

Dr. Manmohan Singh , India’s former prime minister, died on December 26, 2024. He was 92 years old. Widely regarded as one of India’s most successful leaders, Singh spearheaded the country’s economic advancements. After news of his death broke, India’s current Prime Minister Modi called Singh one of their “most distinguished leaders” who left “a strong imprint on [their] economic policy over the years.” “As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives,” a statement from Modi read, per the Associated Press. Learn more about Singh, his education, political career and death, below. Who Was Dr. Manmohan Singh? Singh was a politician and economist who was one of India’s longest-serving prime ministers in history, having served from 2004 to 2014. He was also the first Sikh PM of India. During his time as India’s PM, Singh met with some of the world’s leaders, including two U.S. president Barack Obama and Germany’s former chancellor Angela Merkel . During Singh’s time as PM, he led India’s economic reform program. Though this was a strong feat, Singh was criticized for alleged corruption over the 2010 Commonwealth Games. His premiership ended in 2014. Before he rose to prominence in the political world, Singh earned his bachelors and masters degrees at Panjab University, then attended St John’s College, Cambridge and Nuffield College, Oxford. Manmohan Singh’s Cause of Death Singh was being treated by doctors for “age-related medical conditions,” New Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Science revealed in a statement, according to the Associated Press . Following a “sudden loss of consciousness at home,” the hospital explained that “resuscitative measures were started immediately at home.” After Singh was brought to the medical facility at 8:06 p.m. local time, the hospital declared that the late politician “could not be revived” despite “all efforts,” and he was “declared dead at 9:51 p.m” local time, according to the AP. Was Manmohan Singh Married? Singh married his wife, Gursharan Kaur , in 1958. She is a professor and an author who mostly remained out of the spotlight during her late husband’s premiership. Does Manmohan Singh Have Children? Singh and his wife shared children together: daughters Upinder Singh, Daman Singh and Amrit Singh.

TORONTO, Dec. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rivalry Corp. (the “ ” or “ “) (TSXV: RVLY) (OTCQX: RVLCF) (FSE: 9VK), the leading sportsbook and iGaming operator for digital-first players, is pleased to announce that it has closed the third tranche (the “ ”) of its non-brokered private placement of units of the Company (the “ “), previously announced on November 26, 2024 (the “ “). Under the Third Closing, the Company issued 2,231,253 Units at a price of $0.15 per Unit, for gross proceeds of $334,688. The Company may complete one or more additional closings, for aggregate gross proceeds (together with the proceeds raised under the initial closing, second closing and Third Closing) of up to approximately USD$3 million. Unless otherwise noted, all dollar figures are quoted in Canadian dollars. Each Unit is comprised of one (1) subordinate voting share in the capital of the Company (each, a “ “) and one-half of one (1/2) Subordinate Voting Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a “ “). Each Warrant is exercisable into one Subordinate Voting Share in the capital of the Company (each, a “ “) at a price of $0.25 per Warrant Share for a period of 12 months from the date hereof, subject to the Company’s right to accelerate the expiry date of the Warrants upon 30 days’ notice in the event that the closing price of the Subordinate Voting Shares is equal to or exceeds $0.50 on the TSX Venture Exchange (or such other recognized Canadian stock exchange as the Subordinate Voting Shares are primarily traded on) for a period of 10 consecutive trading days. The Company intends to use the proceeds from the Offering for corporate development and general working capital purposes. The Subordinate Voting Shares and Warrants, and any securities issuable upon exercise thereof, are subject to a four-month statutory hold period, in accordance with applicable securities legislation. The Company has paid an aggregate of $10,501.20 in finder’s fees in connection with the Third Closing. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ “), or any applicable state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available. 100,200 Units were issued to family members of Steven Isenberg, a director of the Company and a “related party” (within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (“MI 61-101”)) and 500,000 Units were issued to Kevin Wimer, a director of the Company and a “related party”, and such issuances are considered a “related party transaction” for the purposes of MI 61-101. Such related party transaction is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 as neither the fair market value of the securities being issued to the related parties nor the consideration being paid by the related parties exceeded 25% of the Company’s market capitalization. The purchasers of the Units and the extent of such participation were not finalized until shortly prior to the completion of the Offering. Accordingly, it was not possible to publicly disclose details of the nature and extent of related party participation in the transactions contemplated hereby pursuant to a material change report filed at least 21 days prior to the completion of such transactions. Rivalry Corp. wholly owns and operates , a leading sport betting and media company offering fully regulated online wagering on esports, traditional sports, and casino for the digital generation. Based in Toronto, Rivalry operates a global team in more than 20 countries and growing. Rivalry Limited has held an Isle of Man license since 2018, considered one of the premier online gambling jurisdictions, as well as an internet gaming registration in Ontario, and is currently in the process of obtaining additional country licenses. With world class creative execution and brand positioning in online culture, a native crypto token, and demonstrated market leadership among digital-first users Rivalry is shaping the future of online gambling for a generation born on the internet. Steven Salz, Co-founder & CEO ss@rivalry.com investors@rivalry.com Cody Luongo, Head of Communications cody@rivalry.com 203-947-1936 This news release contains certain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (“forward-looking statements”). All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as “anticipate”, “achieve”, “could”, “believe”, “plan”, “intend”, “objective”, “continuous”, “ongoing”, “estimate”, “outlook”, “expect”, “project” and similar words, including negatives thereof, suggesting future outcomes or that certain events or conditions “may” or “will” occur. These statements are only predictions. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management of the Company at the date the statements are made based on information then available to the Company. Various factors and assumptions are applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to and involve a number of known and unknown, variables, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, which may cause the Company’s actual performance and results to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include regulatory or political change such as changes in applicable laws and regulations; the ability to obtain and maintain required licenses; the esports and sports betting industry being a heavily regulated industry; the complex and evolving regulatory environment for the online gaming and online gambling industry; the success of esports and other betting products are not guaranteed; changes in public perception of the esports and online gambling industry; failure to retain or add customers; the Company having a limited operating history; negative cash flow from operations; operational risks; cybersecurity risks; reliance on management; reliance on third parties and third-party networks; exchange rate risks; risks related to cryptocurrency transactions; risk of intellectual property infringement or invalid claims; the effect of capital market conditions and other factors on capital availability; competition, including from more established or better financed competitors; and general economic, market and business conditions. For additional risks, please see the Company’s MD&A dated April 30, 2024 and other disclosure documents available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. No assurance can be given that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information and/or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. Source: Rivalry Corp.WASHINGTON (AP) — FBI Director Christopher Wray told bureau workers Wednesday that he plans to resign at the end of President Joe Biden's term in January, an announcement that came a week and a half after President-elect Donald Trump said he would nominate loyalist Kash Patel for the job. Wray said at a town hall meeting that he would be stepping down “after weeks of careful thought,” roughly three years short of the completion of a 10-year term during which he tried to keep the FBI out of politics even as the bureau found itself entangled in a string of explosive investigations, including two that led to separate indictments of Trump last year as well as inquiries into Biden and his son. “My goal is to keep the focus on our mission — the indispensable work you’re doing on behalf of the American people every day,” Wray told agency employees. “In my view, this is the best way to avoid dragging the bureau deeper into the fray, while reinforcing the values and principles that are so important to how we do our work.” The intended resignation was not unexpected considering that Trump had settled on Patel to be director and had repeatedly aired his ire at Wray, whom he appointed during his first term. But his departure is nonetheless a reflection of how Trump's norm-breaking style has reshaped Washington, with the president-elect yet again flouting tradition by moving to replace an FBI director well before his term was up and Wray resigning to avert a collision with the incoming administration. “It should go without saying, but I’ll say it anyway — this is not easy for me," Wray said. “I love this place, I love our mission, and I love our people — but my focus is, and always has been, on us and doing what’s right for the FBI.” Wray received a standing ovation following his remarks before a standing-room-only crowd at FBI headquarters and some in the audience cried, according to an FBI official who was not authorized to discuss the private gathering by name and spoke on condition of anonymity to The Associated Press. Trump applauded the news on social media, calling it “a great day for America as it will end the Weaponization of what has become known as the United States Department of Injustice" and saying that Patel's confirmation will begin “the process of Making the FBI Great Again.” If confirmed by the Senate, Patel would herald a radical leadership transformation at the nation's premier federal law enforcement agency. He has advocated shutting down the FBI's Washington headquarters and called for ridding the federal government of “conspirators," raising alarms that he might seek to wield the FBI's significant investigative powers as an instrument of retribution against Trump's perceived enemies. Patel said in a statement Wednesday that he was looking forward to "a smooth transition. I will be ready to serve the American people on day one.” It's extremely rare for FBI directors to be ousted from their jobs before the completion of their 10-year terms, a length meant to insulate the agency from the political influence of changing administrations. But Trump has done it twice, placing Wray in the job in 2017 after firing Director James Comey amid an investigation into ties between Russia and the Republican president’s campaign. Despite having appointed Wray, Trump had telegraphed his anger with the FBI director on multiple occasions throughout the years, including as recently as the past week. In an interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press” that aired Sunday, Trump said, “I can’t say I’m thrilled with him. He invaded my home,” a reference to the FBI search of his Florida property , Mar-a-Lago, two years ago for classified documents from Trump’s first term as president. That search, and the recovery of boxes of sensitive government records, paved the way for one of two federal indictments against Trump. The case, and another one charging him with plotting to overturn the 2020 election, have both been dismissed by the Justice Department special counsel that brought them in light of Trump's November victory. Attorney General Merrick Garland praised Wray for having “served our country honorably and with integrity for decades.” He said: “Under Director Wray’s principled leadership, the FBI has worked to fulfill the Justice Department’s mission to keep our country safe, protect civil rights, and uphold the rule of law.” Natalie Bara, the president of the FBI Agents Association, said in a statement that Wray had led the FBI “through challenging times with a steady focus on doing the work that keeps our country safe. ” Throughout his seven years on the job, the self-professed "low-key, understated" Wray brought a workmanlike approach to the job, repeatedly preaching a “keep calm and tackle hard” mantra to bureau personnel despite a steady drumbeat of attacks from Trump and his supporters. He also sought to avoid public conflict when possible with the Trump White House, distancing himself and his leadership team from the FBI's Russia investigation over errors that took place before he took office and announcing dozens of corrective actions meant to prevent the recurrence of the surveillance abuses that plagued the inquiry. But there were other instances when he memorably broke from Trump — he did not agree, for instance, with Trump’s characterization of the Russia investigation as a “witch hunt." He made known his displeasure when the White House blessed the declassification of materials related to the surveillance of a former Trump campaign aide and contradicted a Trump talking point by stating that Ukraine had not interfered in the 2016 election. He repeatedly sought to keep the focus on the FBI's day-to-day work, using the bulk of his resignation announcement to praise the bureau's efforts in countering everything from violent crime and cyberattacks to Chinese espionage and terrorism. Yet as he leaves office at a time of heightened threats , much of the public focus has been on the politically sensitive investigations of his tenure. Besides the inquiries into Trump, the FBI in recent years also investigated Biden's handling of classified information as well as Biden's son Hunter for tax and gun violations. Hunter Biden was pardoned by his father last week. A particular flashpoint came in August 2022, when FBI agents searched Mar-a-Lago — an action officials defended as necessary given the boxes of documents that were being concealed at the Palm Beach property and the evidence of obstruction that the Justice Department said had been gathered. Trump railed against the FBI over that search and has kept up his criticism ever since. Trump was angered by Wray's comment at a congressional hearing that there was “some question about whether or not it’s a bullet or shrapnel” that struck Trump's ear during an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania in July. The FBI later stated unequivocally that it was indeed a bullet. Before being named FBI director, Wray worked at a prestigious law firm, King & Spalding, where he represented former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie during the “Bridgegate” scandal. He also led the Justice Department’s criminal division for a period during President George W. Bush’s administration.

Travis Kelce's Practice Outfit Has Fans in DisbeliefJaguar's Type 00 concept car: Redefining EV landscapeCowboys Cheerleader Zoe Dale and Bengals Kicker Cade York's Timeline

The NBA got viewers for Christmas, even while going up against NFL games. The NBA's five-game Christmas lineup was the league's most-watched in five years, with the games averaging about 5.25 million viewers per game across ABC, ESPN and its platforms, the league said Thursday based on Nielsen's preliminary numbers. It's an 84% rise over the NBA's Christmas numbers from 2023. The Los Angeles Lakers’ 115-113 victory over the Golden State Warriors — a game pitting Olympic teammates LeBron James and Stephen Curry — averaged 7.76 million viewers and peaked with about 8.32 million viewers toward the end of the contest, the league said. Those numbers represent the most-watched NBA regular season game in five years. “I love the NFL,” James said in his televised postgame interview Wednesday night. “But Christmas is our day.” The NBA said all five Christmas games on its schedule — San Antonio at New York in Victor Wembanyama's holiday debut, Minnesota at Dallas, Philadelphia at Boston, Denver at Phoenix and Lakers-Warriors — saw year-over-year viewership increases. Wednesday's numbers pushed NBA viewership for the season across ESPN platforms to up 4% over last season. The league also saw more than 500 million video views on its social media platforms Wednesday, a new record. For the NBA, those are all good signs amid cries that NBA viewership is hurting. “Ratings are down a bit at beginning of the season. But cable television viewership is down double digits so far this year versus last year," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said earlier this month. “You know, we’re almost at the inflection point where people are watching more programing on streaming than they are on traditional television. And it’s a reason why for our new television deals, which we enter into next year, every game is going to be available on a streaming service.” Part of that new package of television deals that the NBA is entering into next season also increases the number of regular season games broadcast on television from 15 to 75. AP NBA: https://www.apnews.com/hub/NBANHL trade tracker 2024-2025: Rangers send captain Jacob Trouba to Ducks for prospect, draft pick

DORTMUND, Germany (AP) — Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck was carried off on a stretcher with what seemed to be a severe ankle injury near the end of his team's loss to Barcelona in the Champions League on Wednesday. It leaves last season's Champions League runner-up without any fit central defenders. Schlotterbeck headed narrowly over the bar in the last action of the game as Dortmund lost 3-2 to Barcelona. He landed heavily and appeared to be in severe pain. The referee blew for full time while Schlotterbeck was being treated and he was later carried off on a stretcher, covering his face with his hands. Coach Nuri Sahin said Schlotterbeck was “obviously in low spirits” after the injury. “I'm waiting for the diagnosis and then we'll see, but I've watched the footage, too, and it doesn't look so good,” he told broadcaster DAZN. Dortmund already had to partner Schlotterbeck with midfielder Emre Can in the center of defense for the game because of injuries to Niklas Süle, who is expected to be out for several months with an ankle injury, and Waldemar Anton, who has not played since Nov. 30 with a reported muscle tear. Dortmund is sixth in the Bundesliga and plays Hoffenheim on Sunday before facing Wolfsburg on Dec. 22 in its last game before the winter break. AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccerPolice arrests man for slitting friend’s throat in Kogi

Commentary: Giving thanks for America and opportunityhh777 。

Field 2-7 0-0 4, Brantley 2-6 0-0 5, Gonzalez 4-18 1-2 9, King 2-4 0-0 4, Ware 0-6 0-0 0, Filien 2-3 2-2 6, Moreno 1-2 0-0 2, Oliver 1-6 2-2 4, Totals 14-52 5-6 34 Gedeon 4-7 0-0 8, Donald 3-9 0-0 6, Dwyer 5-13 0-1 10, Mayo 4-7 2-2 10, Owen 4-9 0-0 9, Bahati 0-0 0-0 0, Blagrove 1-2 0-0 2, Lavelle 3-7 0-0 6, Wingate 0-0 0-0 0, Brown 0-0 0-0 0, Little 0-3 0-0 0, Vanderhoop 3-6 0-0 7, Totals 27-63 2-3 58 3-Point Goals_Stony Brook 1-12 (Brantley 1-3, Gonzalez 0-5, King 0-1, Ware 0-1, Oliver 0-2), St. John's 2-21 (Gedeon 0-1, Donald 0-4, Dwyer 0-3, Mayo 0-1, Owen 1-2, Blagrove 0-1, Lavelle 0-3, Little 0-3, Vanderhoop 1-3). Assists_Stony Brook 6 (Ware 5), St. John's 13 (Dwyer 4, Owen 4). Fouled Out_Stony Brook Filien. Rebounds_Stony Brook 39 (Gonzalez 6, Ware 6), St. John's 35 (Lavelle 8). Total Fouls_Stony Brook 12, St. John's 11. Technical Fouls_None. A_562.

As of October 28, 2024 , the record date for the Annual Meeting, there were a total of 232,618,399 shares of common stock outstanding and entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting, comprised of 208,618,399 shares of Class A Common Stock (each with one vote per share) and 24,000,000 shares of Class B Common Stock (each with ten votes per share). At the Annual Meeting, holders of 207,347,538 shares of common stock, representing 423,347,538 votes, entitled to vote at the meeting were represented in person or by proxy and, therefore, a quorum constituted of the majority of the voting power of the shares of common stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting was present. The following is a brief description of each matter voted upon at the 2024 Annual Meeting and the numbers of votes cast for, withheld, or against, the number of abstentions, and the number of broker non-votes with respect to each other, as applicable. 1. Election of six nominees to serve on the Board of Directors (the "Board") for a term which will expire at the 2025 annual meeting of stockholders, or, if Proposal Two is adopted, to hold office until the annual meeting of stockholders in accordance with the class of director to which each nominee will be assigned. The following six directors were elected by the votes as indicated below. The totals above include the 240,000,000 votes represented by the Class B shares of Common Stock. 12,000,000 shares of Class B Common Stock (representing 120,000,00 votes) were voted "FOR" and 12,000,000 shares of Class B Common stock (representing 120,000,00 votes) were voted "WITHHELD" for each of the Directors other than Albert Schultz . All shares of Class B Common Stock were voted "FOR" the election of Albert Schultz . Excluding the 240,000,000 votes from the 24,000,000 shares of Class B Common Stock from the totals above, the 183,347,538 shares of Class A Common Stock were voted as indicated below. 2. Amendment to the Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation to classify the Board of Directors into three classes, with directors in each class to serve staggered three-year terms. Pursuant to the Restated Certificate of Incorporation, Proposal Two must receive the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the voting power of all of the then-outstanding shares of the capital stock of the Company entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, voting together as a single class, since directors representing two-thirds (2/3) of the total number of authorized directors have already approved. The amendment was not approved 2 by the votes as indicated below: Because Proposal Two was not approved, the six directors elected pursuant to Proposal One will serve on the Board for a term which will expire at the 2025 annual meeting of stockholders. 3. Ratification of the appointment of UHY LLP as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024 . The selection was ratified by the votes as indicated below: Note 1: Includes 120,000,000 votes of the 12,000,000 shares of Class B Common Stock held by White Marble LLC and White Marble International Limited (together, the "White Marble Entities") controlled by Dr. Xiaodi Hou . Note 2: The White Marble Entities have filed an action in the Delaware Court of Chancery seeking a declaratory judgment that the voting agreement between White Marble and Mo Chen is invalid and White Marble, not Mo Chen , controls the vote. White Marble LLC v. Chen , C.A. No. 2024-1208-PAF (Del. Ch.) On December 13, 2024 , the Court entered an order that allows the Company to hold the vote on Proposal Two, and ordered that if Proposal Two is not approved at the Annual Meeting but the Court determines in the Action that Mo Chen , not the White Marble Entities, control how the White Marble Entities' Shares are voted, then the White Marble Entities' shares shall be deemed to have been voted in favor of Proposal Two at the Annual Meeting and that such vote shall stand. The vote totals above include the votes of the shares held by the White Marble Entities as voted by the White Marble Entities. If the shares held by the White Marble entities reflected in the totals above are deemed to have been voted in favor of Proposal Two, the Proposal will have passed. Accordingly, if the Court rules in Mo Chen's favor, Proposal Two will be deemed to have passed and the Company would be permitted to amend its Certificate of Incorporation to implement Proposal Two and each of the directors elected pursuant to Proposal One will serve on the Board until the annual meeting of stockholders in accordance with the class of director to which each nominee is assigned. About CreateAI CreateAI (formerly TuSimple) is a global artificial intelligence company with offices in US, China , and Japan . The company is pioneering the future of digital entertainment content production, seamlessly blending cutting-edge generative AI technology with the creativity of world-class talent. Our mission is to redefine the boundaries of what's possible in digital storytelling by developing immersive, captivating, and visually stunning experiences that resonate with audiences on a global scale. Investor Relations Contact: ICR for CreateAI CreateAI.IR@icrinc.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/createai-announces-results-of-2024-annual-meeting-of-stockholders-302338618.html SOURCE CreateAI Holdings IncIndia’s former PM Manmohan Singh dies aged 92

Radical left-wing documentary filmmaker Michael Moore is roasting outgoing President Joe Biden for starting World War III on his way out of office. Moore published a “Dear Joe” letter to the dotard-in-chief noting that he recently laid out an agenda for Biden’s final days in office for “cementing your status as a ‘Great President’,” and then lamented “you have done none of them.” But worse than just ignoring Moore’s suggestions, the filmmaker insisted, “You on the other hand seem to be trying to cement your legacy as a war monger — doubling down on some of your worst mistakes and worst impulses.” The Bowling for Columbine director then laid out some of Biden’s “warmongering.” Instead of using your precious little time left to do something to HELP THE AMERICAN PEOPLE, your first action after Trump won was to fast track the delivery of over $6 Billion in weapons to Ukraine. Then, you called up Zelensky and gave him the green light to start firing long range ballistic missiles into a country with a massive amount of nuclear weapons, Russia. Then, as if that weren’t enough carnage for one week, you authorized the use of antipersonnel land mines in Russia. LAND MINES, Joe? Seriously? THIS is your legacy? This is how you want to go out? In a blaze of horror? Like, if Joe’s gotta go, we all gotta go with him... right into World War III? Moore pointed out that the U.S. has spent a billion dollars in efforts to remove landmines from war torn places such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, adding that these are “the places we invade and then leave our landmines behind.” “Vietnam was 50 years ago, Joe. And kids today in southeast Asia are still getting their arms blown off by our landmines. That’s your legacy, Joe. This is what you’re doing,” Moore railed. Moore was also disgusted by the White House’s lobbying against 19 Democrat senators who moved to block Biden weapons shipment to Israel and expressed his outrage that Biden’s administration accused these senators of being Hamas supporters. The Hollywood elitist then knocked Biden’s administration for blocking a U.N. vote to call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, adding, ” America once again single handedly blocked the ceasefire. The only country speaking out in favor of more death and destruction was the one you and I are citizens of. This is your legacy, Joe?” The next “Is this your legacy, Joe?” point Moore included in his screed was Biden’s refusal to back the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant for Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu. As he began to wrap up his accusatory letter, he had more suggestions for Biden, writing, “Maybe you should stop arming foreign wars and leave that for the next guy. Maybe instead, you should focus on things that matter to Americans,” and demanded that Biden “make some real and powerful change” in the last two months he has left. He then suggests that the Equal Rights Amendment is a “no brainer.” You have the power to order the E.R.A. be officially published in the United States Constitution. You’ve had nearly 4 years to do this. It was ratified by the required number of states and it should be published as the 28th Amendment to the Constitution. Women, who make up 51% of the American population — THE MAJORITY — should finally be recognized as equal citizens and equal human beings, endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, just as they are in almost every single other Western Democracy. “You have the power to do this, Joe. You have the power to make this your legacy,” Moore concludes. “So, Joe, I’m really telling you for the last time: JUST DO IT. ” However, it is far from clear that Biden has this power at all. The original E.R.A. language that the states considered for ratification in 1974 contains a seven-year time limit to garner its three-quarters vote (38 states). That time passed with only 35 of the 38 states having ratified the amendment for inclusion as part of the U.S. Constitution. The amendment has been constantly reintroduced in succeeding congressional sessions, but has never passed with the needed percentages. Two U.S. Supreme Court cases — Dillon v. Gloss (1921) and Coleman v. Miller (1939) — both held that adding time limits is a legitimate political practice in which Congress has authority to engage. But, while no direct court case has considered the question of placing time limits on constitutional amendments, there is no reason to believe the SCOTUS would not just adopt the past two dictum decisions as precedent. So, the truth is, it isn’t obvious at all that Biden has the power to just add the ERA to the U.S. Constitution on his own hook. And even if he wanted to, his final two months is simply not enough time to propose the move, and then get it approved for action. Follow Warner Todd Huston on Facebook at: facebook.com/Warner.Todd.Huston , or Truth Social @WarnerToddHustonRomanians are casting ballots on Sunday in the first round of a presidential election that could pit a far-right nationalist against the incumbent leftist prime minister in the runoff. Thirteen candidates are vying for the presidency in the European Union and NATO member country, and the vote is expected to go to a second round on Dec. 8. Polls opened at 7.00 a.m. local time (0500GMT) and will close at 9.00 p.m. (1900GMT). Romanians abroad have been able to vote since Friday. By 8 p.m. local time (1800GMT), 9.2 million people — about 51% of eligible voters — had cast ballots, according to the Central Election Bureau. The final vote could see George Simion, the leader of the far-right Alliance for the Unity of Romanians, or AUR, face off against incumbent Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, backed by Romania’s largest party, the Social Democratic Party or PSD. The presidential role carries a five-year term and has significant decision-making powers in areas such as national security, foreign policy, and judicial appointments. Romania will also hold parliamentary elections on Dec. 1 that will determine the country’s next government and prime minister. Simion, 38, is a vocal supporter of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and has long been a controversial figure. He campaigned for reunification with Moldova, which this year renewed a five-year ban on him from entering the country over security concerns, and he is banned for the same reason from entering neighbouring Ukraine. “I would like that in the next five to ten years, for Romanians to be really proud to be Romanians, to promote Romanian culture, Romanian products,” he told reporters on Wednesday in the capital, Bucharest. “As a Romanian president, I will promote Romanian interests. In most cases, Romanian interests coincide with partner interests.” Ecaterina Nawadia, a 20-year-old architecture student, said she voted for the first time in a national election on Sunday and hopes young people turn out in high numbers. “Since the (1989) revolution, we didn’t have a really good president,” she said. “I hope most of the people my age went to vote ... because the leading candidate is not the best option.” Cristian Andrei, a political consultant based in Bucharest, says Sunday’s vote will be “a tight race” in which the diaspora will likely play a key role in which candidates make it to the runoff. “We are at a point where Romania can easily divert or slip toward a populist regime because (voter) dissatisfaction is pretty large among a lot of people from all social strata,” he told The Associated Press. “And the temptation for any regime, any leader — will be to go on a populist road.” He added that Romania’s large budget deficit, high inflation, and an economic slowdown could push more mainstream candidates to shift toward populist stances amid widespread dissatisfaction. Ciolacu told the AP that if he is elected, one of his biggest goals is “to convince Romanians that it is worth staying at home or returning” to Romania, which has a massive diaspora spread throughout EU countries. “Romania has a huge chance to become a developed economy in the next 10 years, where honest work is fairly rewarded and people have the security of a better life,” he said. “But for this, we need balance and responsibility ... I am running for the Presidency of Romania because we need a change.” Other key candidates include Elena Lasconi of the Save Romania Union party, or USR former NATO deputy general secretary Mircea Geoana, who is running independently and Nicolae Ciuca, a former army general and head of the center-right National Liberal Party, which is currently in a tense coalition with the PSD. Geoana, a former foreign minister and ambassador to the United States, told the AP that he believes his international experience qualifies him above the other candidates. “I think I bring a lot of competence and experience and connections in this complicated world,” he said. Lasconi, a former journalist and the leader of the USR said she sees corruption as one of the biggest problems Romania faces and that she supports increased defence spending and continued aid to Ukraine. Romania has been a staunch ally of war-torn Ukraine since Russia launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022. But Simion of the AUR party said he opposes Romania — which has sent a Patriot missile system to Ukraine — contributing further military aid and that he hopes Trump can “stop the war.” In 2020, the AUR party went from relative obscurity to gaining 9% in a parliamentary vote, allowing it to enter parliament. Opponents have long accused Simion and AUR of being extremists, charges he denies. “We are sort of a Trumpist party in this new wave of patriotic political parties in Europe,” Simion said.

College football fans aren't very happy with Saturday's guest pickers on College GameDay. The ESPN college football pregame show is airing live from College Station, Texas on Saturday morning. Rece Davis, Kirk Herbstreit, Nick Saban, Desmond Howard, Pat McAfee and Lee Corso will be live from Texas A&M ahead of Saturday's big showdown against Texas. It's the first time the two in-state rivals have played since they were in the Big 12 Conference, in 2011. ESPN's College GameDay announced on Saturday that the crew from YouTube's Dude Perfect will serve as the guest pickers. The five members - Tyler "The Beard" Toney, "The Twins" Cory and Coby Cotton, Garrett "The Purple Hoser" Hilbert, and Cody "The Tall Guy" Jones - met while at Texas A&M in College Station, more than a decade ago. The college football pregame show announced the decision on Wednesday evening. "This one is gonna be fun! Can't wait to have @DudePerfect as our guest pickers in College Station this weekend 🙌," ESPN announced. This one is gonna be fun! Can't wait to have @DudePerfect as our guest pickers in College Station this weekend 🙌 pic.twitter.com/4DWSUjSfco College football fans are wishing for someone else, though. "Def should’ve got a former player from both A&M and Texas who played in the rivalry. Only answer," one fan wrote. "Dude Perfect are the guest pickers for A&M vs Texas. How big is the desk going to be?" one fan added. "great I will watch till 11:40," one fan added. "Like the musical guest for this week, I have no freaking clue who or what "Dude Perfect" is. Judging from the hairdos on a few of them and the backward baseball caps, looking ultra (expletive). ESPN Game Day just striking out with these guests this season..." one fan added. "This is incredible, y’all. We’re going to have 11 (!!!) people at the GameDay desk on Saturday!" one fan added. Was this the right or wrong choice from ESPN? The college football pregame show will be airing live on ESPN from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. E.T.NEW ORLEANS — A federal appeals court Wednesday ruled that Border Patrol agents cannot cut razor wire that Texas installed on the U.S.-Mexico border in the town of Eagle Pass, which has become the center of the state's aggressive measures to curb migrant crossings. The decision by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is a victory for Texas in a long-running rift over immigration policy with the Biden administration, which has also sought to remove floating barriers installed on the Rio Grande. Texas has continued to install razor wire along its roughly 1,200-mile (1,900 kilometers) border with Mexico over the past year. In a 2-1 ruling, the court issued an injunction blocking Border Patrol agents from damaging the wire in Eagle Pass. “We continue adding more razor wire border barrier,” Republican Gov. Greg Abbott posted on the social platform X in response to the ruling. A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment Wednesday. Get the latest breaking news as it happens. By clicking Sign up, you agree to our privacy policy . Some migrants have been injured by the sharp wire, and the Justice Department has argued the barrier impedes the U.S. government’s ability to patrol the border, including coming to the aid of migrants in need of help. Texas contended in the lawsuit originally filed last year that federal government was “undermining” the state's border security efforts by cutting the razor wire. The ruling comes ahead of President-elect Donald Trump returning to office and pledging a crackdown on immigration. Earlier this month, a Texas official offered a parcel of rural ranchland along the U.S.-Mexico border to use as a staging area for potential mass deportations. Arrivals at the U.S.-Mexico border have dropped 40% from an all-time high in December. U.S. officials mostly credit Mexican vigilance around rail yards and highway checkpoint

PuSh Festival announces dynamic lineup for its milestone 20th anniversaryBy CLAIRE RUSH President-elect Donald Trump has once again suggested he wants to revert the name of North America’s tallest mountain — Alaska’s Denali — to Mount McKinley, wading into a sensitive and decades-old conflict about what the peak should be called. Related Articles National Politics | Inside the Gaetz ethics report, a trove of new details alleging payments for sex and drug use National Politics | An analyst looks ahead to how the US economy might fare under Trump National Politics | Trump again calls to buy Greenland after eyeing Canada and the Panama Canal National Politics | House Ethics Committee accuses Gaetz of ‘regularly’ paying for sex, including with 17-year-old girl National Politics | Trump wants mass deportations. For the agents removing immigrants, it’s a painstaking process Former President Barack Obama changed the official name to Denali in 2015 to reflect the traditions of Alaska Natives as well as the preference of many Alaska residents. The federal government in recent years has endeavored to change place-names considered disrespectful to Native people. “Denali” is an Athabascan word meaning “the high one” or “the great one.” A prospector in 1896 dubbed the peak “Mount McKinley” after President William McKinley, who had never been to Alaska. That name was formally recognized by the U.S. government until Obama changed it over opposition from lawmakers in McKinley’s home state of Ohio. Trump suggested in 2016 that he might undo Obama’s action, but he dropped that notion after Alaska’s senators objected. He raised it again during a rally in Phoenix on Sunday. “McKinley was a very good, maybe a great president,” Trump said Sunday. “They took his name off Mount McKinley, right? That’s what they do to people.” Once again, Trump’s suggestion drew quick opposition within Alaska. “Uh. Nope. It’s Denali,” Democratic state Sen. Scott Kawasaki posted on the social platform X Sunday night. Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski , who for years pushed for legislation to change the name to Denali, conveyed a similar sentiment in a post of her own. “There is only one name worthy of North America’s tallest mountain: Denali — the Great One,” Murkowski wrote on X. Various tribes of Athabascan people have lived in the shadow of the 20,310-foot (6,190-meter) mountain for thousands of years. McKinley, a Republican native of Ohio who served as the 25th president, was assassinated early in his second term in 1901 in Buffalo, New York. Alaska and Ohio have been at odds over the name since at least the 1970s. Alaska had a standing request to change the name since 1975, when the legislature passed a resolution and then-Gov. Jay Hammond appealed to the federal government. Known for its majestic views, the mountain is dotted with glaciers and covered at the top with snow year-round, with powerful winds that make it difficult for the adventurous few who seek to climb it. Rush reported from Portland, Oregon.

Miss World Myanmar 2025 set this JanuaryMayor Mark Sutcliffe says Ottawa will have to be promised funding from upper levels of government for transit by early next year or face "tough decisions" to keep buses and trains running. In a year-end interview with CTV News Ottawa, Sutcliffe spoke on a wide-ranging number of issues, including transit, the city budget and the political turmoil on Parliament Hill. Sutcliffe says that while he has heard promising signs from senior members of the federal Liberal Party regarding a bailout for OC Transpo, no commitments have been made. "I am a little bit concerned about the volatile state of politics on Parliament Hill right now, so that commitment has got to come soon. I don't want that to be trumped by an election or a leadership change," he told CTV's Matt Skube. "I think we need to know what's happening by the end of January, mid-February or we're going to have to start looking at other options." Perhaps the most contentious and difficult issues on the agenda for this year's term of council was about how to fill a $120 million hole in the transit budget. OC Transpo has faced significant challenges with ridership struggling to return to pre-pandemic norms. The transit service has responded with fare hikes, service cuts and layoffs this year to cut costs and improve revenue. Unlike federal and provincial governments, municipal councils in Ontario are required by law to pass balanced budgets. To avoid significant service cuts and greater transit fare hikes, the city put in place a $36 million placeholder for possible funding from upper levels of government for public transit in next year's budget, though that money has not been confirmed. Sutcliffe says the provincial government has agreed to put forward the money only if the federal government will. He says time is running out for the funding to come as questions over the stability of the prime minister's leadership peaked this week. "If we don't get support from the other levels of government, we'll face some tough decisions in 2025, but I don't want to cross that bridge until it come to it because I'm still hopeful that the other levels of government will do the right thing and support us," Sutcliffe said. Sutcliffe reiterated his "Fairness for Ottawa" campaign in the interview, calling on upper levels of government to give the city its "fair share" of funding for transit services in the amount of $140 million over three years. OC Transpo is projecting a $120 million funding shortfall in 2025, $131 million in 2026, $145 million in 2027 and deficits of $150 million in 2028 and 2029. Sutcliffe would not get into specifics about whether service cuts or additional transit fare hikes could happen if the money doesn't come, but said "all options are on the table." "We have an $8 billion deficit in our long-range financial plan for public transit so we're doing everything we can do address that deficit. We're not getting any help form the other levels of government on that," he said. "If people are concerned about the rising cost of transit or the rising cost of the transit levy, then they should talk to their provincial MPPs and federal MPs. We need sustainable funding from transit form the other levels of government or were going to have to continue to raise transit fares and transit taxes." The city faced heavy blowback last month after the draft budget proposed raising monthly senior bus passes by 120 per cent and eliminating monthly youth passes altogether. After debating the issue at transit commission and council, councillors settled on a more modest increase of $9 and kept youth transit passes in place. Asked if he regretted how the debate over senior fare hikes played out, Sutcliffe said he is grateful the draft budget was able to give the public time to provide input and feedback before the final version was passed. "That's the great thing about our budget process is we put a draft budget in front of Ottawa residents and then we go out in the community and consult with them, and we listen to them," he said. "We listened to the community, we heard the feedback, and we responded to it, and I think that shows the system works." The 2025 City of Ottawa budget was passed on Dec. 11, which will see residents pay a 2.9 per cent increase in property taxes and an eight per cent hike in the transit levy, resulting in an overall increase of 3.9 per cent for most residents. Transit fares for an adult single ride will go up five per cent to $4, the fourth highest in the country. OC Transpo's budget is increasing $88 million to $856 million in 2025. Sutcliffe added the city will be conducting a comprehensive fare review next year to simplify the discounts and cost categories for riders. 2025 marks a pivotal year for the transit system, as the city prepares to open the Trillium Line in January and the eastern extension of the Confederation Line later in the year. Sutcliffe said one of his proudest accomplishments this year is not passing on the burden of the city's financial issues onto taxpayers. Next year's budget has found more than $208 million in efficiencies, or about $400 per resident, according to the city. Sutcliffe says the savings were found through a variety of administrative efficiencies, without cuts to services or programs. "Families all over the city are grappling with the rising cost of food and other products and services. They're making tough decisions with their household budgets, so we did the same at city hall. We went through the budget line by line, we looked at every department and we continue to do that work," he said. The increase in property taxes will be one of the largest Ottawa residents have seen in years, but lower than many large municipalities across the country. Other cities placed higher tax burdens on their residents next year, including Vancouver: 3.9 per cent, Edmonton: 6.1 per cent, Hamilton: 6.9 per cent and Calgary: 3.6 per cent. Sutcliffe added the city is putting in millions of dollars for high priority areas, including funding for police, emergency services, homeless and shelter systems and food banks. This is part one of the mayor's year end interview with CTV News Ottawa. Part one is airing Dec. 23. Part two will air Tuesday, Dec. 24. Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks 10 Family Calendars And Planners That'll Help You Keep Track Of Everything In The New Year Our Guide To The Best Winter Boots You Can Get In Canada 16 Cozy Home Essentials That Cost Less Than $100 Home Our Guide To The Best Snow Shovels In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) 14 Of The Best Home Security Devices You Can Find Online Right Now (And They've Got The Reviews To Prove It) 13 Of The Best Fidget Toys For Adults Gifts The Clock Is Ticking — Shop These 25 Last-Minute Amazon Prime Gifts Now If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 70+ Crowd-Pleasing Gifts Will Still Arrive Before Christmas If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 50 Brilliant Stocking Stuffers Will Still Arrive Before Christmas Beauty 20 Products Your Dry, Dehydrated Skin Will Thank You For Ordering 14 Hydrating Face Masks That’ll Save Your Skin This December 12 Budget-Friendly Products To Add To Your Winter Skincare Routine Deals PSA: The Michael Kors Boxing Week Sale Is Happening Right Now The Silk & Snow End Of Year Sale Is Officially On — Here's What To Add To Your Cart The Best Early Boxing Day Deals On Amazon Canada For 2024 Ottawa Top Stories EXCLUSIVE | Ottawa mayor speaks on transit funding, federal turmoil in year-end interview SNOWFALL WARNING | Pre-Christmas storm forecasted in Ottawa with up to 20 cm of snow tonight Man handed 5th distracted driving charge for using cellphone on Hwy. 417 in Ottawa No injuries in Overbrook fire inside 22-storey apartment building Brockville, Ont. cafe giving hundreds of Christmas dinners to people in need What's open and closed in Ottawa over the holidays The Papery returns to historic home in Ottawa's Glebe neighbourhood after fire Municipality of The Nation, Ont. to increase taxes by 9.5 per cent CTVNews.ca Top Stories Quebec fugitive killed in Mexican resort town, RCMP say RCMP are confirming that a fugitive, Mathieu Belanger, wanted by Quebec provincial police has died in Mexico, in what local media are calling a murder. Trump again calls to buy Greenland after eyeing Canada and the Panama Canal First it was Canada, then the Panama Canal. Now, Donald Trump again wants Greenland. The president-elect is renewing unsuccessful calls he made during his first term for the U.S. to buy Greenland from Denmark, adding to the list of allied countries with which he's picking fights even before taking office. Canada regulator sues Rogers for alleged misleading claims about data offering Canada's antitrust regulator said on Monday it was suing Rogers Communications Inc, for allegedly misleading consumers about offering unlimited data under some phone plans. Multiple OnlyFans accounts featured suspected child sex abuse, investigator reports An experienced child exploitation investigator told Reuters he reported 26 accounts on the popular adults-only website OnlyFans to authorities, saying they appeared to contain sexual content featuring underage teen girls. King Charles ends royal warrants for Ben & Jerry's owner Unilever and Cadbury chocolatiers King Charles III has ended royal warrants for Cadbury and Unilever, which owns brands including Marmite and Ben & Jerry’s, in a blow to the household names. Man faces murder charges in death of woman who was lit on fire in New York City subway A man is facing murder charges in New York City for allegedly setting a woman on fire inside a subway train and then watching her die after she was engulfed in flames, police said Monday. 'Serious safety issues': Edmonton building where security guard was killed evacuated An apartment building where a security guard was killed earlier this month is being evacuated. Santa Claus cleared for travel in Canadian airspace Santa's sleigh has been cleared for travel in Canadian airspace, the federal government announced on Monday just ahead of the busy holiday season. Ex-OpenAI engineer who raised legal concerns about the technology he helped build has died Suchir Balaji, a former OpenAI engineer and whistleblower who helped train the artificial intelligence systems behind ChatGPT and later said he believed those practices violated copyright law, has died, according to his parents and San Francisco officials. He was 26. Atlantic No need to dream, White Christmas all but assured in the Maritimes An early nor'easter followed by a low-pressure system moving into the region all but ensure a Maritime White Christmas Santa Claus cleared for travel in Canadian airspace Santa's sleigh has been cleared for travel in Canadian airspace, the federal government announced on Monday just ahead of the busy holiday season. Court of appeal certifies class action lawsuit against health authority, former nurse A New Brunswick mother who is the lead plaintiff in a court case has received an early Christmas gift after the province’s top court certified her class action law suit. Toronto DEVELOPING | Parts of Ontario under snowfall warning Monday as holiday travellers hit the road Holiday travellers and commuters could be in for a messy drive on Monday morning as a significant round of snowfall moves into the region. Here are live updates on the situation in Toronto. Doug Ford dresses up like Santa to grant wishes in Christmas video In a video posted on social media on Monday morning, Ford is seen dressed up in a bright red Santa suit performing a personalized rendition of the famous 1823 poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas." 3 suspects wanted after alleged armed robbery at Vaughan commercial business York Regional Police (YRP) police are searching for three people after an alleged armed robbery in Vaughan, the latest in a series of violent commercial robberies happening around the Greater Toronto Area. Montreal Quebec fugitive killed in Mexican resort town, RCMP say RCMP are confirming that a fugitive, Mathieu Belanger, wanted by Quebec provincial police has died in Mexico, in what local media are calling a murder. Snow on the way as Montreal is put under weather advisory A weather advisory has been initiated for the Greater Montreal area, with 10 to 15 cm of snow expected to hit the ground. Judge rejects lawsuit tied to controversial 2017 Montreal Formula E car race An entrepreneur who sued the City of Montreal for not considering his bid to organize a 2017 electric car race has failed to obtain the more than $3 million in compensation he was seeking. Northern Ontario Fatal snowmobile crash in northern Ont. near Parry Sound A 30-year-old has died following a snowmobile crash near Parry Sound on Sunday. Teen passed out at coffee shop with bottle of booze on the table, northern Ont. police say A 19-year-old from Blind River is facing several charges following incidents at a coffee shop and in jail. Man charged with damaging downtown Sudbury eatery A man free on probation has been charged with causing significant damage to a restaurant on Elgin Street in downtown Sudbury over the weekend. Windsor Child luring investigation sees Windsor resident charged According to Essex OPP, 45-year-old Sean Oulette is facing charges of luring a person under 16 years of age by means of telecommunication. City of Windsor reviewing other H4 properties, no longer pursuing Wellington Avenue The City of Windsor has announced it is no longer pursuing land at 700 Wellington Avenue and is looking at other properties for the new Homelessness and Housing Help Hub (H4). Parvovirus found in Belle River A local groomer has confirmed a positive case of parvovirus, found in Belle River. London SIU concludes LPS was justified in striking a man in August arrest Following an incident in August, the province’s police watchdog has concluded that a London Police Service officer did not commit a criminal offense. Grey-Bruce Public Health appoints first Indigenous chair of board of health Grey-Bruce Public Health (GBPH) has appointed a new board chair - Dr. Nicholas Saunders is the first Indigenous chair of the Grey-Bruce Board of Health. Anonymous $2 million donation given to St. Joseph’s Health Care St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation has received an anonymous $2 million donation from a local community member. Kitchener Parts of southern Ontario under travel advisory Anyone planning to travel today is being urged to be prepared as 5 to 15 cm of snow could hit a large portion of southern Ontario. Beloved bookstore in Uptown Waterloo forced to close for months following fire A beloved bookstore in Uptown Waterloo is bearing the brunt of some holiday misfortune. Must-see moments of 2024: A superstar surprise, roundabout resident and CKCO studios come down From a WWE surprise for a Guelph superfan, to the recovery of a lost aviation artifact, to a reporter getting the story right from the goose's mouth, here are some of our can’t-miss moments from 2024. Barrie Several collisions reported along Highway 11 as driving conditions deteriorate Highway 11 was closed briefly in Oro-Medonte on Monday afternoon as driving conditions deteriorated, causing multiple collisions. Student charged, firearms seized after threats against school: police Police say officers found several firearms during a search at a teen’s home after he allegedly made violent threats against a secondary school. Single-vehicle crash in Springwater Twp. One woman was taken to the hospital following a single-vehicle crash in Springwater Township. Winnipeg An alleged sniper, pair of animal claims featured on MPI’s top five fraud list for 2024 From hitting animals that weren’t there to a sniper that didn’t exist, Manitoba Public Insurance has released its top five frauds of 2024. Manitoba government to make permanent cut to gas tax Manitobans can expect to see a permanent change at the gas pump as early as next week Snowmobile crash leaves 10-year-old dead: RCMP A 10-year-old boy is dead following a snowmobile crash near Rosebank, Man., on Sunday. Calgary Taxpayers Federation unveils its annual spending 'Naughty and Nice List' A media president and the Prime Minister have topped the Canadian Taxpayers Federation’s annual 'Taxpayer Naughty List' for 2024. Serious crash closes part of Highway 1 near Bassano, Alta. RCMP responded to a serious crash on Highway 1 near Bassano, Alta., on Monday morning. The collision occurred approximately two kilometres east of Highway 56. 2 Alberta men charged with sex crimes involving children in separate investigations Two registered sex offenders are facing charges after separate investigations in northern Alberta. Edmonton 'Serious safety issues': Edmonton building where security guard was killed evacuated An apartment building where a security guard was killed earlier this month is being evacuated. City of Edmonton to lift Phase 1 parking ban Monday evening The City of Edmonton will lift the Phase 1 parking ban on Monday at 5 p.m. 2 Alberta men charged with sex crimes involving children in separate investigations Two registered sex offenders are facing charges after separate investigations in northern Alberta. Regina Estevan police officer arrested following SIRT investigation An officer of the Estevan Police Service (EPS) is facing several charges following an investigation by the province’s police oversight agency. Heavy fog descends over Regina, most of Saskatchewan Dense fog is being reported across much of the province to begin the week of Christmas, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). Riders acquire quarterback Jake Maier in trade with Stampeders The Green and White finalized some Christmas shopping ahead of the holidays, acquiring quarterback Jake Maier in a trade with Calgary on Monday. Saskatoon 'There are lines': In year-end interview, NDP leader says Moe went too far in election campaign Saskatchewan’s two main political leaders had agreed before October's provincial election not to target the families of candidates during the campaign, says Opposition NDP Leader Carla Beck. Sask. RCMP on the scene of rollover on Highway 40 The Saskatchewan RCMP said Highway 40 was closed Monday afternoon following a rollover just west of Hafford, a village just under 100 kilometres northwest of Saskatoon. Saskatoon woman arrested following machete attack A 55-year-old woman was arrested following a stabbing with a machete early Monday morning. Vancouver Cleanup underway after rockslide derails train in B.C. No injuries were reported after a rockslide derailed a freight train, sending railcars into British Columbia's Fraser River, on Sunday night. 1 person in critical condition after crash in New Westminster, B.C. One person was taken to hospital in critical condition Monday after a crash involving a flatbed truck in New Westminster, B.C. Union for striking aviation fuel workers in Vancouver says aging pipeline poses risk A union representing striking aviation fuel workers in British Columbia is warning that diversion of the fuel to get around the industrial action could pose an environmental hazard. Vancouver Island Cleanup underway after rockslide derails train in B.C. No injuries were reported after a rockslide derailed a freight train, sending railcars into British Columbia's Fraser River, on Sunday night. 1 person in critical condition after crash in New Westminster, B.C. One person was taken to hospital in critical condition Monday after a crash involving a flatbed truck in New Westminster, B.C. More than 280M trees planted in 2024 in B.C., focus on fire-damaged areas British Columbia's forests ministry says more than 280 million trees were planted in the province this year. Kelowna Forfeited Hells Angels clubhouse in Kelowna, B.C., sold to the city A former Hells Angels clubhouse that was seized by the British Columbia government in 2023 after years of fighting in court has been sold to the City of Kelowna. Death of woman found in Kelowna's Waterfront Park in June deemed 'non-criminal in nature': RCMP Police in Kelowna say a death they began investigating back in June has now been confirmed as "non-criminal in nature." B.C. man sentenced for 'execution-style' murder of bystander in drug trade conflict A B.C. man convicted of the "intentional and ruthless killing of a bystander" while acting as an enforcer in the drug trade has been sentenced for a second time in the slaying. Stay Connected

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If you missed out on Best Buy's and Target's Switch console bundle deals, you have another chance to save at Walmart. As part of its Black Friday sale , Walmart has the Nintendo Switch 2024 holiday bundle for $249 and the Switch OLED bundle for $299 . These deals aren't quite as good as the sold-out offers--$275 for OLED, $225 for base model--but they still offer great value and are likely to sell out soon. Both consoles come bundled with $80 worth of free stuff: a digital copy of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and a 12-Month Switch Online membership. Nintendo Switch + Mario Kart 8 Deluxe + 12-Month Switch Online Bundle -- $249 ($ 299 ) Nintendo Switch OLED + Mario Kart 8 Deluxe + 12-Month Switch Online Bundle -- $299 ($ 349 ) If you want extra controllers for multiplayer or a more traditional gamepad for playing the Switch on your TV, you're in luck: Along with this unprecedented pair of console deals, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and Neon Red/Blue Joy-Con Controller Set have received their biggest discounts yet. You can save $20 on each, dropping the price of the Pro Controller to $50 and the pair of Joy-Con Controllers to $60. Switch Pro Controller -- $49 ( $70 ) See at Best Buy See at Amazon See at Walmart See at Target Neon Red and Blue Joy-Cons -- $59 ( $80 ) See at Walmart See at Amazon See at Best Buy See at Target Nintendo Switch Black Friday Game Deals All Switch Deals at Walmart All Switch Deals at Walmart All Switch Deals at Best Buy All Switch Deals at Target A bunch of notable Switch-exclusive games are featured in the Black Friday sale , too. Super Mario Odyssey is only $30, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is down to $30, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons is also up for grabs for as low as $30. Walmart Switch Game Deals: Animal Crossing: New Horizons -- $30 ($ 60 ) Kirby and the Forgotten Land -- $30 ($ 60 ) The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom -- $45 ($ 60 ) The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom -- $30 ($ 70 ) Nintendo Switch Sports -- $30 ($ 50 ) Nintendo World Championships -- $25 ($ 30 ) Pikmin 4 -- $30 ($ 60 ) Pokemon Legends Arceus -- $45 ($ 60 ) Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury -- $30 ($ 60 ) Super Mario Maker 2 -- $30 ($ 60 ) Super Mario: Odyssey -- $30 ($ 60 ) Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble -- $25 ($ 50 ) Target Switch Game Deals: Animal Crossing: New Horizons -- $35 ( $60 ) The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom -- $40 ( $70 ) Kirby and the Forgotten Land -- $35 ( $60 ) Nintendo Switch Sports -- $35 ( $50 ) Pikmin 1 + 2 -- $30 ( $50 ) Pikmin 4 -- $35 ( $60 ) Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury -- $35 ( $60 ) Super Mario Maker 2 -- $35 ( $60 ) Super Mario Odyssey -- $30 ( $60 ) Best Buy Switch Game Deals: Animal Crossing: New Horizons -- $40 ( $60 ) The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom -- $40 ( $70 ) Kirby and the Forgotten Land -- $40 ( $60 ) Nintendo Switch Sports -- $40 ( $50 ) Pikmin 1 + 2 -- $30 ( $50 ) Pikmin 4 -- $40 ( $60 ) Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury -- $40 ( $60 ) Super Mario Maker 2 -- $40 ( $60 ) Super Mario Odyssey -- $30 ( $60 )Penn State holds firm in AP Poll, keeping home playoff hopes alive

Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Michelle Rowland once confessed she had a vice. It was “excessive online clothes shopping”, Rowland told this masthead in 2021 , when she was Labor’s communications spokeswoman. “I blame Instagram.” Now the communications minister with responsibility for regulating social media, Rowland is doing something to curb its influence. The politician known for having such a lawyerly, cautious approach that she reads from notes even in private meetings has taken the audacious step of banning under 16s from social media . The move has outraged technology giants and generated headlines around the world. “We would like that something very similar could be put in place, enforced in Europe,” French Education Minister Anne Genetet said. “We absolutely urgently need something to be put in place.” Michelle Rowland has strong backroom relationships. But they have not been enough to advance major parts of the government’s agenda that she is overseeing. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen That Australia is out ahead of any other country is all the more striking because two of Rowland’s other priorities – a bill to ban lies online and a crackdown on gambling ads – are dead or dying. Rowland’s critics blame the minister for that. “Minister Rowland seems to operate under the belief that she doesn’t have to bring anyone along with her on her legislation and policies,” Greens communications spokesperson Sarah Hanson-Young says. “For the communications minister, she’s not a great communicator.” But the wooden exterior belies a different Rowland. Behind the closed doors of the Labor Party, colleagues know her as funny (the type of minister who leaves odd snacks on staff desks), sharp and influential. Advertisement Rowland, they say, is in her dream job. She is the first sitting MP since Paul Keating to serve as NSW party president, a role in which she has helped keep internal NSW Labor dramas off the front page as the state branch won an election after more than a decade in opposition. The former communications and regulatory lawyer, who worked with star lawyer Danny Gilbert and Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb, cares about her portfolio and knows it inside out. Loading Growing up in the western Sydney electorate of Greenway that she represents, Rowland rose through the ranks of Young Labor before marrying Michael Chaaya, a corporate lawyer who could not speak English when he started school in Mount Druitt. The pair regularly attend a Maronite church together, grounding her views in favour of religious freedom and against antisemitism. In 2009, Rowland was a senior lawyer at Gilbert+Tobin when an electoral redistribution flipped Greenway from a safe Liberal seat to a winnable prospect for Labor. Rowland won it the next year and began a steady rise through the party that has won her fans in Labor’s most senior ranks. Treasurer Jim Chalmers secured her a position on the powerful cabinet expenditure review committee that signs off on government spending – a rarity for a communications minister. “She is very smart, very thorough and very tough,” one senior minister says. “She has a lawyer’s sense of the detail and a marginal member’s sense of the politics, and that makes her very influential.” Advertisement And she has personal bonds, too. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese rates not only her political judgment as a voice from suburban Labor comfortable on Sky News, but also her health advice. He followed Rowland’s diet (she lost about 40kg – roughly half her body weight – on the strict meal-prepping plan in 2020 and still gets up at 4.30am for Pilates) to lose weight before the 2022 election, declaring it made him “match fit”. Yet, those backroom relationships have not been enough to advance major parts of the government’s agenda that Rowland is overseeing in a portfolio that deals with politically influential organisations such as media companies and sporting codes. On some other issues, such as modernising Australia Post, updating rules to preserve major sport on free-to-air TV, reshaping the National Broadband Network, and letting users find broadcast stations on smart TVs, Rowland has confronted issues that her Coalition predecessors left alone. But rules to require more Australian content on streaming services such as Netflix, which sit both in Rowland’s patch and the arts portfolio, are nowhere to be seen. Labor’s anti-misinformation bill , which would have let the media regulator pressure social media companies to take down falsehoods circulating online, attracted a chorus of critics, from human rights groups to religious institutions. Intended to prevent conspiracy theories about events such as terrorist attacks, it left experts baffled about who would determine what was true and how. Rowland abandoned her second attempt to pass the law late last month. Advertisement Gambling reform has fared scarcely better. More than a year after the late Labor MP Peta Murphy delivered bipartisan recommendations from a parliamentary committee for a blanket ban on gambling advertising, no laws have been introduced and a government commitment to respond by the end of this year has been all but abandoned. Anti-gambling advocates have accused the government of betraying Murphy’s memory. That is despite Rowland privately briefing interested parties on a full digital ban on gambling ads online and a cap on those airing on television, less than the proposal Murphy backed, but further than the sports, gambling and media sectors wanted and beyond what any previous government has floated. Loading But Rowland has done little to convince the public of the significance of the reforms. In press conferences, Rowland is disciplined to the point of appearing stilted. Those who have spoken with her in private say her habit of referring to notes, which is unusual for a politician but more common in the law, has the same effect. It is, one former minister says, an “insult to the craft”. Rowland’s allies admit her attitude towards the gambling sector changed after this masthead reported in February 2023 that she had received donations and a Rockpool dinner from Sportsbet before the 2022 federal election, leading to crossbench calls for her resignation. Teal MPs and anti-gambling advocates portrayed Rowland as captured by corporate interests. That perception has meant her proposed set of policies, which would hurt media companies and sporting codes’ finances, won no friends. “The reputational damage done by the Sportsbet stuff meant she was always on the back foot on the gambling issue,” one gambling industry source says. “People like [Alliance for Gambling Reform chief advocate] Tim Costello were always going to paint her as weak if she ended up anywhere other than a full blanket ban.” Advertisement With the prime minister publicly suggesting poker machines are a greater problem and privately convinced there is little electoral benefit in prosecuting the crackdown, Rowland’s problem is unlikely to go away unless she can muster the rhetoric to convince the public that a middle path works. That more charismatic Rowland has peeked through before. Asked her favourite TV show in that 2021 Q&A with this masthead , Rowland named the Netflix show Vikings . It’s full of “heavily tattooed Nordic beefcakes in sweaty battle scenes”, she said. “I’m only human.” Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter .TOMS RIVER, N.J. (AP) — Gov. Phil Murphy has asked the Biden administration to put more resources into an investigation of mysterious drone sightings that have been reported in New Jersey and nearby states. Murphy, a Democrat, made the request in a letter Thursday, noting that state and local law enforcement remain “hamstrung” by existing laws and policies in their efforts to successfully counteract any nefarious activity of unmanned aircraft. He posted a copy of the letter on the social media platform X . Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.(NAPSI)—The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year, but when the average American is spending nearly $1,000 on gifts, food, and decorations, they can also be the most stressful. For many, the pressure to create a picture-perfect holiday can stretch budgets a bit too far. Many of today’s shoppers seek advice from their favorite online influencers, sourcing creative hacks, recipes, DIY projects, and tips to keep the holidays magical without overspending. In fact, 69% of consumers say they value and actively seek out influencer recommendations. Now, questions don’t need to get buried in the comments. This December, TextNow is flipping the script on holiday stress by introducing the Holiday Hotline , a free resource to help you navigate the season, with advice a mere text away. Whether it’s finding affordable gifts, creating a festive dinner on a budget, or even learning how to save on your monthly bills, the Holiday Hotline can make things simpler, cheaper, and—perhaps most importantly—more joyful. TextNow Holiday Hotline: Expert Advice at Your Fingertips From December 5–10, TextNow’s Holiday Hotline connects you with relatable experts (aka some of your favorite influencers including social media creator and podcast host Remi Cruz, Kayla Savings, and Melissa Weiss) who will share their go-to tips for a budget-friendly holiday. Here’s what you can expect: • Holiday Budgeting 101: Learn simple ways to stretch every dollar and avoid those dreaded post-holiday bills. • Affordable Gift-Giving Ideas: Thoughtful, creative gifts that won’t break the bank. • Festive Decorating on a Dime: Transform your home into a holiday wonderland with budget-friendly hacks. • Stress-Free Holiday Cooking: Recipes and meal-planning tips to impress your guests. Need more advice? Just text the hotline at 310-299-3584, and you’ll get personalized, practical tips sent straight to your phone. Win $1,000 for Your Holiday Dinner As if free expert advice wasn’t enough, TextNow is also giving you the chance to win big this holiday season. Enter the $1,000 Dinner Giveaway for a shot at a $1,000 gift card to cover your holiday expenses—whether it’s for food, gifts, travel, or whatever else makes your season special. Entering is simple: 1.Head to TextNow’s Instagram . 2.Like the giveaway post. 3.Share your best holiday tip in the comments (bonus: share the post to your story for an extra entry). 4.The giveaway runs from December 5-12, with winners announced from December 13-16. Save More This Holiday Season TextNow is more than just a phone service—it’s a way to take control of your budget, not just during the holidays but year-round. • Free Phone Service: Unlimited calling and texting on the nation’s largest 5G network free. No gimmicks, no contracts. • Free Essential Data: Get free data for such essential apps as maps, rideshare, and email when you activate your SIM card. • Additional Flexible Data Plans: Add extra data only when you need it, with hourly, daily, or monthly passes. Getting started with TextNow is easy. Download the app to call and text for free over Wi-Fi or unlock free cellular service with a $4.99 SIM card. Learn More For more details, visit www.TextNow.com . Word Count: 491

Ange Postecoglou knows the next month will be “significant” for Tottenham, but is confident they will improve and not be mid-table at Christmas. Spurs travel to Premier League champions Manchester City on Saturday reeling from a disappointing home loss to Ipswich before the international break. The club’s problems have multiplied during the past fortnight with midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur handed a seven-match domestic ban on Monday and Cristian Romero (toe) joining a lengthy list of absentees. However, Postecoglou remains bullish about Tottenham’s progress and acutely aware of the scrutiny set to come his way if they stay 10th. “Christmas is a joyous occasion, irrespective, and I think it should be celebrated. If we’re still 10th then people won’t be happy, I won’t be happy, but we might not be 10th,” Postecoglou pointed out before nine games in 30 days. “Certainly for us I think it’s a significant period because you look at those games and we’ve got the league where we’ve got to improve our position and a couple of important European fixtures that can set us up for the back half of the year, also a Carabao Cup quarter-final. “At the end of that period we could be in a decent position for a strong second half of the year, so for us it is an important period. “You know there’s no more international breaks, so the full focus is here. You can build some momentum through that, or if things don’t go well you could get yourself into a bit of a grind. Ready for #MCITOT 👊 Go behind the scenes of training ahead of our trip to Manchester 🎥⤵️ pic.twitter.com/4jFZTCIwSz — Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) November 22, 2024 “Of course if we had beaten Ipswich, we’d be third and I reckon this press conference would be much different wouldn’t it? “I’m not going to let my life be dictated by one result, I’m sorry. I take a wider perspective on these things because I know how fickle it can be, but we need to address our position for sure. “And if we’re 10th at Christmas, yeah it won’t be great. There’d be a lot of scrutiny and probably a lot of scrutiny around me, which is fair enough, but that’s not where I plan for us to be.” Tottenham’s immediate efforts to move up the table will require them ending City’s two-year unbeaten home run in the Premier League. The champions have lost their last four matches in all competitions, but have some key personnel back for Saturday’s clash and will aim to toast Pep Guardiola’s new contract with a victory. Postecoglou was pleased to see Guardiola commit to a further two seasons in England, adding: “I love the fact that there’s a massive target out there that can seem insurmountable. “I look at it the other way. I go, ‘imagine if you knock him off, that’d be something’. “I’m at the stage of my life where I’d rather have the chance of knocking him off than missing that opportunity. “When greatness is around, you want to be around it. And hopefully it challenges you to be like that as well.” Saturday’s fixture will be Postecoglou’s 50th league game in charge of Spurs and he knows what is required to bring up three figures. A post shared by Premier League (@premierleague) “No European football, significant player turnover, change of playing style. Where did I think we’d be after 50 games? God knows. “It could have been a whole lot worse, but when you look at it in the current prism of we’re 10th, you’re going ‘it doesn’t look good’ and I understand that and we have to improve that. “But over the 50 games, I think there’s enough there that shows we are progressing as a team and we are developing into the team we want. “The key is the next 50 games, if they can be in totality better than the first 50? First, that means I’m here but second, I think we’ll be in a good space.”

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Bill Belichick spent time after his NFL exit talking with college coaches wanting his thoughts on managing new wrinkles at their level that looked a lot like the pros. The two-minute timeout. The transfer portal as de facto free agency. Collectives generating name, image and likeness (NIL) money for athletes becoming like a payroll. The impending arrival of revenue sharing. It didn't take long for Belichick to envision how a college program should look based on his own NFL experience. "I do think there are a lot of parallels," Belichick said. And that's at least partly why the six-time Super Bowl-winning head coach is now taking over at North Carolina. Years of rapid change at the have only increased the professionalization of college football across the country, with schools adjusting staffing to handle growing duties once seemingly more fitting for a pro team. UNC just happens to be making the most audacious of those bets, bringing in a 72-year-old who has never coached in college and asking him to build what amounts to a mini-NFL front office. But plenty could follow. "I really think there's going to be some of those guys that maybe don't have a job in the NFL anymore," Kansas State general manager Clint Brown said, "and now that this is going to be structured in a way where there is a cap that that's going to be something they're interested in." The rapid changes in college athletics have fueled that, notably with players able to transfer and play right away without sitting out a year and be paid through NIL endorsement opportunities in the past five years. Recruiting is now just as much about bringing in veteran talent through the portal as signing recruits out of high school, mirroring the NFL with free agency and the draft, respectively. And a bigger change looms with revenue sharing, the result of a $2.78 billion legal settlement to antitrust lawsuits. Specifically, that model will allow the biggest schools to establish a pool of about $21.5 million for athletes in the first year, with a final hearing in that case set for April 2025. It will be up to schools to determine how to distribute that money and in which sports, though football's role as the revenue driver in college sports likely means a prominent cut everywhere as a direct parallel to a professional team's salary cap. Throw all that together, and it's why coaches are adjusting their staffs like Florida's Billy Napier interviewing candidates to be the Gators' general manager. "We're built to do it now," Napier said. "The big thing here is that we're getting ready to be in a business model. We have a cap. We have contracts. We have negotiation. We have strategy about how we distribute those funds, and it's a major math puzzle. "We're going to build out a front office here in the next couple of months, and it's primarily to help us manage that huge math problem," Napier added. "There'll be a ton of strategy around that. I'm looking forward to it." Still, that also explains why Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule, the former head coach of the NFL's Carolina Panthers, said: "This job as a head coach is a juggernaut. There's way more to do here than I had to do in the NFL." And it explains why the Tar Heels are betting on Belichick to be the right fit for today's changing climate. "If I was 16 of 17 years old, a coach who came at you and won how many Super Bowls? And he said, 'Come play for me,'" said New York Giants offensive lineman Joshua Ezeudu, now in his third year out of UNC. "I mean, that's pretty hard to turn down now, especially in this day and age, he's telling you to come play for him and he's offering you some money, too. I mean, you can't go wrong with that choice." The timing worked for UNC with Belichick, who was bypassed for some NFL openings after leaving the New England Patriots last year and instead spent months taking a closer look at the college game. Those conversations with coaches — some in the Atlantic Coast, Big Ten and Southeastern conferences, he said Thursday — made him understand how the changes in college aligned with his pro experience. "College kind of came to me this year," Belichick said. "I didn't necessarily go and seek it out." And his mere presence in Chapel Hill makes a difference, with athletic director Bubba Cunningham saying his "visibility" would likely allow the team to raise prices for advertising such as sponsorships and signage. Belichick is also hiring Michael Lombardi, a former NFL general manager and executive, as the Tar Heels' general manager. Cunningham also said the plan is for Belichick to continue his appearances on former NFL quarterbacks Peyton and Eli Manning's "Manningcast" broadcasts during Monday Night Football as well as ESPN's "The Pat McAfee Show" — all giving the coach the chance to promote himself and the program. Yet these steps to reshape football at North Carolina comes with a rising price. Belichick will make $10 million per year in base and supplemental pay, with the first three years of the five-year deal guaranteed, according to a term sheet released by UNC on Thursday. That's roughly double of former coach Mack Brown, whose contract outlined about $4.2 million in base and supplemental salary before bonuses and other add-ons. Additionally, Belichick's deal includes $10 million for a salary pool for assistant coaches and $5.3 million for support staff. That's up from roughly $8.1 million for assistants and $4.8 million for support staff for the 2022 season, according to football financial data for UNC obtained by The Associated Press. And those figures from 2022 under Brown were already up significantly from Larry Fedora's tenure with the 2017 season ($4 million for assistant coaches, $2.3 million for support staff). There is at least one area where the Tar Heels are set for Belichick's arrival: facilities. UNC spent more than $40 million on its football practice complex with an indoor facility (2018) as the biggest project, while other projects include $3 million in upgrades to the locker room and weight room (2019), $14.5 million on renovations to the Kenan Football Center (2022), even $225,000 on Brown's former office (2021). Now it's up to Belichick to rethink the approach to football here for the changing times. "We're taking a risk," Cunningham said. "We're investing more in football with the hope and ambition that the return is going to significantly outweigh the investment." AP Sports Writers Tom Canavan in New Jersey; Mark Long in Florida; and Eric Olson in Nebraska; contributed to this report. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!Week 11 High School Football: Brian Mazzone’s last game at Stafford, East Hartford upsets ManchesterBiden opens final White House holiday season with turkey pardons and first lady gets Christmas tree

Automotive Sunroof Growth: From USD 4.97B in 2022 to USD 13.4B by 2031 11-27-2024 09:53 PM CET | Tourism, Cars, Traffic Press release from: SkyQuest Technology Group Automotive Sunroof Market Scope: Key Insights : Automotive Sunroof Market size was valued at USD 4.97 billion in 2022 and is poised to grow from USD 5.64 billion in 2023 to USD 13.40 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 13.4% in the forecast period (2024-2031). Discover Your Competitive Edge with a Free Sample Report : https://www.skyquestt.com/sample-request/automotive-sunroof-market Access the full 2024 Market report for a comprehensive understanding @ https://www.skyquestt.com/report/automotive-sunroof-market In-Depth Exploration of the global Automotive Sunroof Market: This report offers a thorough exploration of the global Automotive Sunroof market, presenting a wealth of data that has been meticulously researched and analyzed. It identifies and examines the crucial market drivers, including pricing strategies, competitive landscapes, market dynamics, and regional growth trends. By outlining how these factors impact overall market performance, the report provides invaluable insights for stakeholders looking to navigate this complex terrain. Additionally, it features comprehensive profiles of leading market players, detailing essential metrics such as production capabilities, revenue streams, market value, volume, market share, and anticipated growth rates. This report serves as a vital resource for businesses seeking to make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving market. Trends and Insights Leading to Growth Opportunities The best insights for investment decisions stem from understanding major market trends, which simplify the decision-making process for potential investors. The research strives to discover multiple growth opportunities that readers can evaluate and potentially capitalize on, armed with all relevant data. Through a comprehensive assessment of important growth factors, including pricing, production, profit margins, and the value chain, market growth can be more accurately forecast for the upcoming years. Top Firms Evaluated in the Global Automotive Sunroof Market Research Report: Webasto Inalfa(HaiNaChuan) Inteva Yachiyo Aisin Seiki Johnan Manufacturing Inc Donghee Shanghai Mobitech Wanchao Electric Appliance Jincheng Accessories Key Aspects of the Report: Market Summary: The report includes an overview of products/services, emphasizing the global Automotive Sunroof market's overall size. It provides a summary of the segmentation analysis, focusing on product/service types, applications, and regional categories, along with revenue and sales forecasts. Competitive Analysis: This segment presents information on market trends and conditions, analyzing various manufacturers. It includes data regarding average prices, as well as revenue and sales distributions for individual players in the market. Business Profiles: This chapter provides a thorough examination of the financial and strategic data for leading players in the global Automotive Sunroof market, covering product/service descriptions, portfolios, geographic reach, and revenue divisions. Sales Analysis by Region: This section provides data on market performance, detailing revenue, sales, and market share across regions. It also includes projections for sales growth rates and pricing strategies for each regional market, such as: North America: United States, Canada, and Mexico Europe: Germany, France, UK, Russia, and Italy Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia South America: Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, etc. Middle East and Africa: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa This in-depth research study has the capability to tackle a range of significant questions that are pivotal for understanding the market dynamics, and it specifically aims to answer the following key inquiries: How big could the global Automotive Sunroof market become by the end of the forecast period? Let's explore the exciting possibilities! Will the current market leader in the global Automotive Sunroof segment continue to hold its ground, or is change on the horizon? Which regions are poised to experience the most explosive growth in the Automotive Sunroof market? Discover where the future opportunities lie! Is there a particular player that stands out as the dominant force in the global Automotive Sunroof market? Let's find out who's leading the charge! What are the key factors driving growth and the challenges holding back the global Automotive Sunroof market? Join us as we uncover the forces at play! To establish the important thing traits, Ask Our Experts @ https://www.skyquestt.com/speak-with-analyst/automotive-sunroof-market Table of Contents Chapter 1 Industry Overview 1.1 Definition 1.2 Assumptions 1.3 Research Scope 1.4 Market Analysis by Regions 1.5 Market Size Analysis from 2023 to 2030 11.6 COVID-19 Outbreak: Medical Computer Cart Industry Impact Chapter 2 Competition by Types, Applications, and Top Regions and Countries 2.1 Market (Volume and Value) by Type 2.3 Market (Volume and Value) by Regions Chapter 3 Production Market Analysis 3.1 Worldwide Production Market Analysis 3.2 Regional Production Market Analysis Chapter 4 Medical Computer Cart Sales, Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2023-2023) Chapter 5 North America Market Analysis Chapter 6 East Asia Market Analysis Chapter 7 Europe Market Analysis Chapter 8 South Asia Market Analysis Chapter 9 Southeast Asia Market Analysis Chapter 10 Middle East Market Analysis Chapter 11 Africa Market Analysis Chapter 12 Oceania Market Analysis Chapter 13 Latin America Market Analysis Chapter 14 Company Profiles and Key Figures in Medical Computer Cart Business Chapter 15 Market Forecast (2023-2030) Chapter 16 Conclusions Address: 1 Apache Way, Westford, Massachusetts 01886 Phone: USA (+1) 351-333-4748 Email: sales@skyquestt.com About Us: SkyQuest Technology is leading growth consulting firm providing market intelligence, commercialization and technology services. It has 450+ happy clients globally. This release was published on openPR.

Arab League welcomes Lebanon ceasefire, urges intensified efforts for deal on GazaJurassic World: Rebirth Writer Compares The Movie To Steven Spielberg’s Original, And I’m So In

Formerly bankrupt auto parts company reopening after rescue, /PRNewswire/ -- The tech workforce saw modest movement in the latest national employment data, according to , the nonprofit association for the tech industry and workforce. Analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data reveals the tech unemployment rate for the month fell slightly to 2.5%, matching the low end of the rate for 2024. The national unemployment rate rose slightly to 4.2% in November. Employment within the technology industry sector was essentially flat with a decline of 1,636 jobs for the month. The tech sector employs nearly 5.6 million people, which translates to a percentage decline of essentially 0%. Tech professions throughout the economy declined by 6,000 in a national workforce of nearly 6.5 million workers. "While a flat month in the aggregate as some employers take a breather, the data continues to highlight the diversity of hiring activity across the tech workforce," , chief research officer, CompTIA. "Across industry sectors, metro areas and company sizes harnessing tech talent remains a top priority." Active employer job postings for new hiring totaled more than 475,000 in November, down about 42,000 from October. Companies added nearly 184,000 new tech job postings last month, with employers in consulting, finance, manufacturing and technology hardware, software and services among the most active. Artificial intelligence (AI) hiring momentum continues to build. In the aggregate employers recorded nearly 331,000 active job postings throughout 2024 in recruiting for AI job roles and AI skills, a year-over-year increase of 71%. Across all tech occupations 44% of November postings did not specify a four-year degree requirement for applicants. Some occupations had notably higher percentages, including network support specialists (84%) and tech support specialists (71%). The data indicates hiring for work from home (WFH) positions is holding steady at about 20% of total tech job recruiting. On a hiring activity volume basis, the top WFH positions include software developers, IT project managers, data scientists and analysts, tech support specialists, and systems analysts. The "CompTIA Tech Jobs Report" is available at . The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) is the world's leading information technology (IT) certification and training body. CompTIA is a mission-driven organization committed to unlocking the potential of every student, career changer or professional seeking to begin or advance in a technology career. Millions of current and aspiring technology workers around the world rely on CompTIA for the training, education and professional certifications that give them the confidence and skills to work in tech. Labor market data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and employer job postings from Lightcast may be subject to backward revisions. Monthly occupation level data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tends to experience higher levels of variance and volatility. Active job postings include open postings carried over from previous months and new postings added by employers. CompTIA +1.630.678.8468 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE CompTIA

NoneTech occupation unemployment rate inches down to 2.5% DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. , Dec. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The tech workforce saw modest movement in the latest national employment data, according to CompTIA , the nonprofit association for the tech industry and workforce. Analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) #JobsReport data reveals the tech unemployment rate for the month fell slightly to 2.5%, matching the low end of the rate for 2024. The national unemployment rate rose slightly to 4.2% in November. Employment within the technology industry sector was essentially flat with a decline of 1,636 jobs for the month. 1 The tech sector employs nearly 5.6 million people, which translates to a percentage decline of essentially 0%. Tech professions throughout the economy declined by 6,000 in a national workforce of nearly 6.5 million workers. 2 "While a flat month in the aggregate as some employers take a breather, the data continues to highlight the diversity of hiring activity across the tech workforce," Tim Herbert , chief research officer, CompTIA. "Across industry sectors, metro areas and company sizes harnessing tech talent remains a top priority." Active employer job postings for new hiring totaled more than 475,000 in November, down about 42,000 from October. 3 Companies added nearly 184,000 new tech job postings last month, with employers in consulting, finance, manufacturing and technology hardware, software and services among the most active. Artificial intelligence (AI) hiring momentum continues to build. In the aggregate employers recorded nearly 331,000 active job postings throughout 2024 in recruiting for AI job roles and AI skills, a year-over-year increase of 71%. Across all tech occupations 44% of November postings did not specify a four-year degree requirement for applicants. Some occupations had notably higher percentages, including network support specialists (84%) and tech support specialists (71%). The data indicates hiring for work from home (WFH) positions is holding steady at about 20% of total tech job recruiting. On a hiring activity volume basis, the top WFH positions include software developers, IT project managers, data scientists and analysts, tech support specialists, and systems analysts. The "CompTIA Tech Jobs Report" is available at https://www.comptia.org/content/tech-jobs-report . About CompTIA The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) is the world's leading information technology (IT) certification and training body. CompTIA is a mission-driven organization committed to unlocking the potential of every student, career changer or professional seeking to begin or advance in a technology career. Millions of current and aspiring technology workers around the world rely on CompTIA for the training, education and professional certifications that give them the confidence and skills to work in tech. https://www.comptia.org/ 1 Labor market data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and employer job postings from Lightcast may be subject to backward revisions. 2 Monthly occupation level data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tends to experience higher levels of variance and volatility. 3 Active job postings include open postings carried over from previous months and new postings added by employers. Media Contact Steven Ostrowski CompTIA sostrowski@comptia.org +1.630.678.8468 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/latest-employment-data-shows-little-change-in-tech-job-market-comptia-analysis-finds-302325237.html SOURCE CompTIA

EXCLUSIVE: ‘Avoidable And Unconscionable’: GOP Rep Looks To Thwart Potential Trump Resistance In Department Of Labor

Simon Chesterman and Loy Hui Chieh Artificial intelligence is already changing our relationship to information, from how we seek it to how we produce it, says the writer. Nov 30 marks the second anniversary of the release of ChatGPT – though few professors will be celebrating. As the large language model raced towards a hundred million users back in 2022, academic social media was abuzz with gloomy speculation about how this transformative technology that simulated human reasoning and communication might be used by our students to cheat in their papers. Already a subscriber? Log in Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month $9.90 $9.90/month No contract ST app access on 1 mobile device Subscribe now All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you. Read 3 articles and stand to win rewards Spin the wheel nowNoneHaiti’s armed-gang crisis just got worse — and even more complicated. A new report by the United Nations’ leading child welfare agency, UNICEF, says the number of children being recruited by the country’s violent gangs has soared by 70 percent in the last year. The unprecedented spike, registered between the second quarter of 2023 and this year, is yet another example of how children in Haiti, already kept out of school due to violence and rape by gangs, are increasingly being robbed of their childhood. “Children in Haiti are trapped in a vicious cycle — recruited into the very armed groups that are fueling their desperation, and the numbers are growing,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. “This unacceptable trend must be reversed by ensuring children’s safety and welfare are prioritized by all parties.” As many as half of all members of armed gangs in Haiti are children, the U.N. said. This revelations come as Haiti sees an escalation in violence by armed groups and rising vigilantism by residents desperate to protect their neighborhoods from being overtaken. A separate report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime says that as the country finds itself trapped between escalating violence and political paralysis, criminal groups are taking advantage of the institutional collapse and political vacuum to expand their territories. “In a political-institutional vacuum, the gangs have weaponized violence to exert pressure on the system,” the report said. Last week, dozens of suspected gang leaders were killed by police and residents during an attempt to invade the upscale community of Pétion-Ville in the capital. While police put the official death toll at 28, Haiti’s National Human Rights Defense Network said the actual number killed after police intercepted three vehicles on Tuesday was 90. Overall, at least 108 people were killed over a three-day span of violence involving gangs and communities fighting back. In one of the photos of the Tuesday incident, the charred body of a young child could be seen in the back of a vehicle. A 43-year-old resident in the Bourdon community of the capital, who spoke to the Miami Herald on condition of anonymity out of fear for his safety, said that among three armed gang members he saw running through the community fleeing police was a boy around 12 years old toting an automatic rifle and wearing flip flops. “A 12-year-old child with a huge Galil in his hands, that is sad,” said the man, who like most people in the Port-au-Prince neighborhood was awakened by the sounds of gunfire and screams as police attempted to capture the invaders. “These children are the most dangerous.” A father of three between the ages of 4 and 18, the man said he is still shaken by the site of the heavily armed child, who was lost inside the community and trying to find his way out. “Children should not be living these kinds of things,” he said, blaming the recruitment of children by armed gangs on the government, which has failed to protect children and for years ignored an epidemic of street kids who have presumably been recruited into the armed groups. “The state has not taken responsibility.” UNICEF says that the rise in child recruitment by armed groups has been fueled by escalating violence, pervasive poverty, lack of education and near collapse of critical infrastructure and social services in Haiti. “Children are often coerced into joining to support their families, or under threats to their safety,” the agency said in a statement. “Many are recruited after being separated from their caretakers, stripped of protection and survival options.” The recruitment of kids, as well as the rape of girls in Haiti by armed gangs, is a grave violation of children’s rights, said UNICEF, calling on Haitian authorities to prioritize the protection of children. In Port-au-Prince, 1.2 million children live under the threat of armed violence. An estimated 25 percent of the more than 703,000 internally displaced people — of whom 365,000 are children — are currently in the city living under dire conditions and exposed to multiple threats. “Children in many parts of Haiti are subjected to atrocities no child should ever have to experience, leaving them with psychological and emotional scars that might haunt them for a lifetime,” Russell said. “Chaos and horror have become part of daily life.”

Illustration: Liu Rui/GT As former regional leader of the island of Taiwan Tsai Ing-wen was invited to attend the Halifax International Security Forum held in Canada, where the so-called China threat was a key topic discussed during the conference, experts said on Sunday that Canada's alignment with the US, especially on Taiwan question, could lead to negative consequences for Canada itself. The 16th Halifax International Security Forum was held in Canada from Friday to Sunday, with dignitaries, senior generals, experts and scholars attending from more than a dozen countries and regions, including the US, Canada and the UK, focusing on current regional conflicts and defense hotspots, according to media reports. Former leader of China's Taiwan region Tsai Ing-wen came to Canada to participate in the annual conference and accepted the so-called "John McCain Prize for Leadership in Public Service" conferred by the Forum. According to media report, the forum also focused on Canadian military spending and support for Ukraine. However, "China" was unsurprisingly the high-frequency word of the international defense conference, and the topic of China was mentioned frequently throughout almost the entire conference, with many participants criticizing the so-called China threat to the "free world." China firmly opposes any "Taiwan independence" elements visiting any country that has diplomatic ties with China under any name, a spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in Canada said on Saturday. China urges the countries concerned to earnestly abide by the one-China principle and respect China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. By inviting and presenting award to the "Taiwan independence" element, the Halifax International Security Forum seriously violates the one-China principle, and China strongly deplores and firmly opposes this, the spokesperson said. China urges the Halifax International Security Forum to fully recognize the extreme importance and high sensitivity of the Taiwan question and stop sending wrong signals to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, according to the statement. Tsai Ing-wen's behavior sends misleading signals that supporters of Taiwan independence interpret as proof of international support, and they are likely to exploit this narrative to generate hype and shape media perceptions, Xin Qiang, director of the Taiwan Studies Center at Fudan University, told the Global Times on Sunday. Canada, influenced and even manipulated by the US, seeks to align itself with American interests, which is especially evident in its stance toward the island of Taiwan, Li Haidong, a professor at China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times on Sunday. Canada, under the guise of promoting regional peace and stability, is following the US' lead by leveraging the Taiwan question to exert pressure on China, Xin added. However, such actions made by Canada do not provide any real benefits to Canada beyond satisfying certain political needs, Xin added. From a practical standpoint, it negatively impacts China-Canada economic and trade relations, as well as cooperation between the two countries in various areas. As Canada busies itself meddling in China's internal affairs, its government is facing more than enough troubles at home. Anti-NATO and pro-Palestinian protests broke out in downtown Montreal on Friday night, as delegates from NATO members and partner states are meeting in the Canadian city from Friday to Monday. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Saturday condemned the violence, and police used tear gas and batons to disperse the crowd and arresting three people, Reuters reported.WASHINGTON: Donovan Mitchell and reserve Ty Jerome each scored 26 points to spark the NBA-best Cleveland Cavaliers over Toronto 122-108 on Sunday while Boston and Miami each took narrow triumphs. Jarrett Allen added 23 points and 13 rebounds for the Cavaliers, who improved to 17-1 on the season, while Gradey Dick and Scottie Barnes each scored 18 to lead the Raptors. The Cavaliers began the campaign 15-0 before losing 120-117 at Boston last Tuesday, but Cleveland bounced back to beat New Orleans the next night and stayed hot against Toronto, improving to 10-0 at home. “It’s a special place to play and we feel it on the court,” Mitchell said. “It’s always loud when we play. It’s always comfortable coming back here and knowing we’re going to get a loud ovation every time.” At Boston, Jaylen Brown scored 29 points and Jayson Tatum added 26 to lead the reigning champion Celtics over the Minnesota Timberwolves 107-105. “It was a great effort on both ends of the court,” Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla said. “Great team win. I liked how we constantly interacted with each other. Our defense and physicality and working to get the right shot, I think those were the key to winning.” The Celtics improved to 14-3, second only to Cleveland among all NBA clubs, and stretched their win streak to five games. Brown made a 3-pointer to give the Celtics a 107-102 lead with 1:16 remaining. Julius Randle answered with a layup and free throw but the T-Wolves (8-8) couldn’t pull level with Boston (14-3) before the final buzzer. Anthony Edwards had 28 points, nine rebounds and seven assists for Minnesota, which also had 23 points from Randle and 20 rebounds by Rudy Gobert. At Miami, Jimmy Butler scored 33 points, grabbed nine rebounds and passed off six assists to lead the Miami Heat over Dallas 123-118 in overtime. Butler’s dunk with 4.1 seconds remaining in regulation lifted the Heat level at 114-114 to force overtime. Bam Adebayo hit a 3-pointer to put Miami ahead to stay and Butler added a layup for a 122-118 Heat led with 98 seconds remaining in overtime and Alec Burks added a final free throw to seal the victory. — AFP Adebayo had 19 points and 11 rebounds and Tyler Herro added 18 points and 11 rebounds for Miami. Kyrie Irving led the Mavericks with 27 points. At Philadelphia, former 76er James Harden scored a game-high 23 points to lead the Los Angeles Clippers over the host Sixers 125-99. At Indianapolis, Pascal Siakam had 22 points and Tyrese Haliburton added 21 to power the Indiana Pacers over NBA-worst Washington 115-103 to snap a three-game losing streak. At Sacramento, Brooklyn’s Cam Thomas scored a game-high 34 points and the Nets defeated the host Kings 108-103. — AFP

WASHINGTON (AP) — A freelance photographer and local government official from Illinois has been arrested on charges alleging he joined a mob's attack on the U.S. Capitol and pushed against a police officer’s riot shield, according to court records unsealed on Friday. Patrick Gorski, 27, was arrested in Chicago on Thursday on charges including obstructing law enforcement officers during a civil disorder, a felony. A federal judge ordered him released on bond after his initial court appearance. Gorski didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment. An attorney who represented him after his arrest declined to comment on Gorski's behalf. Authorities allege that during the attack, Gorski climbed scaffolding, breaching police lines, and took photos and videos inside the building. He yelled at officers, pushed against an officer's riot shield and was eventually forced out after being sprayed with a chemical irritant, authorities said. When the FBI interviewed him, Gorski did not claim that he was working as a photojournalist during the Jan. 6, 2021, riot and said he didn't bring his professional camera to the Capitol. He told federal agents that he had worked as a photographer for the Chicago Fire Department and for Donald Trump’s 2020 presidential campaign. He has not professionally published any photographs of the Capitol riot, according to the FBI. An FBI agent’s affidavit says some of Gorski’s sports photographs are available through Getty Images and have been “picked up” by The Associated Press and USA Today. Authorities said Gorski has continued to take photos at some local sporting events in Chicago but hasn't published any political photographs in the last five years. Gorski is not an Associated Press journalist and has never been employed by the news organization, said Lauren Easton, AP's vice president of corporate communications. "We have distributed some photos he took for AP’s photo partners and member news organizations," Easton said in a statement. Gorski's resume says he works as a building commissioner for the Village of Norridge, Illinois, and graduated earlier this year from Southeastern Illinois University with a master’s degree in public administration. He attended then-President Trump's “Stop the Steal” rally near the White House on Jan. 6 before he marched to the Capitol in a group of people that included conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and Owen Shroyer , who has hosted a show on Jones' Infowars website. On the west side of the Capitol, Gorski climbed up a wall onto stairs, helped another rioter onto the wall and removed a tarp covering scaffolding, according to the FBI. He climbed up and down the scaffolding before he helped pass a bike rack to other rioters, the agent's affidavit says. Gorski pointed and yelled at police officers outside the building. He also clapped and chanted, “Let us in!” After rioters broke through a police lines and sent officers retreating, Gorski hung a flag over the edge of a balcony. Gorski used his phone to take photos or videos inside a tunnel entrance that police were guarding, according to the affidavit. He screamed at the officers, “This is our house!” as he pushed against an officer’s riot shield, the FBI said. Gorski left the tunnel after several minutes and entered the Capitol through the Senate Wing door, taking more photos or videos inside the building, the affidavit says. An officer had to forcibly move Gorski from a doorway in another part of the Capitol, according to the agent. Gorski retreated after police sprayed him with a chemical irritant. Approximately one year after the attack, the FBI received a tip that Gorski had posted photos of the riot in a group chat with friends. More than 1,500 people have been charged with federal crimes stemming from the Capitol riot.Jimmy Patronis, Florida’s chief financial officer, has emerged as the leading contender to fill the congressional seat vacated by Matt Gaetz. President-elect Donald Trump praised Patronis' devotion to MAGA ideas and backed him on Monday, despite the fact that he has not yet made his campaign official. Trump’s EndorsementOn Truth Social, Trump, 78, emphasized Patronis' qualifications and described him as a "fourth-generation Floridian" who is committed to his cause. The president-elect characterized Patronis as a possible congressional ally who would prioritize border security, economic growth, and Second Amendment protection. Trump added, "Jimmy has been a wonderful friend to me and to MAGA." Patronis, 52, has only hinted at his intention in running for Florida's 1st Congressional District seat, thus the support was unexpected. Patronis’s Political CareerSince 2017, Patronis has been Florida's CFO, managing state funds, conducting agency audits, and policing insurance. The position includes the duties of fire marshal, comptroller, and treasurer. Under previous Governor Rick Scott, Patronis joined the cabinet, and he remained there under Governor Ron DeSantis. Trump's objectives and his legislative efforts have frequently coincided. Patronis suggested last year creating a "Freedom Fighters Fund" to provide up to $5 million to pay for the legal fees of Florida candidates for president, including Trump. In the end, DeSantis rejected the plan. The Seat Gaetz Left BehindIn order to pursue a now-cancelled campaign to become attorney general in Trump's cabinet, Matt Gaetz resigned earlier this month. A contest for Florida's 1st Congressional District seat, a Republican stronghold in the Panhandle, was sparked by his resignation. After struggling to get Senate approval because of a sex scandal that he has denied, Gaetz withdrew from consideration for the position of attorney general. After declaring he would not run for reelection, he joined Cameo and started sending customized video messages. The general election is slated for April 1, while Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has established a primary on January 28. Other ContendersThe position has already drawn interest from a number of Republican hopefuls. Among them are Keith Gross, state lawmaker Michelle Salzman, Nathan Nelson, and former Green Beret John Frankman. Trump's backing has brought considerable attention to Patronis's possible candidacy despite the expanding field of candidates. Patronis’s VisionPatronis made a social media hints about his goals last week when he said on X, "I am seriously considering running for Florida Congressional District 1. We have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to combat the swamp, put a stop to lawfare, and give Americans back control." Patronis is now the front-runner in the race thanks to Trump's backing, but it's unclear when he will officially enter. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US News, World and around the world.CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., Dec. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Covenant Logistics Group, Inc. (NYSE: CVLG) ("Covenant” or the "Company”) announced today that its board of directors has declared a two-for-one stock split of Covenant's Class A common stock and Class B common stock to make Covenant's stock more accessible to investors and employees. The stock split will be effected by means of a stock dividend to the holders of record of Covenant's Class A common stock and Class B common stock as of the close of business on December 20, 2024, the record date for the dividend. As a result of the dividend, each holder of a share of Covenant's Class A common stock will receive one additional share of Class A common stock and each holder of a share of Covenant's Class B common stock will receive one additional share of Class B common stock. In each case, the shares are expected to be distributed after the close of trading on December 31, 2024. Trading is expected to commence on a split-adjusted basis at market open on January 2, 2025. The stock dividend will not have any impact on the voting and other rights of stockholders. About Covenant Covenant Logistics Group, Inc., through its subsidiaries, offers a portfolio of transportation and logistics services to customers throughout the United States. Primary services include asset- based expedited and dedicated truckload capacity, as well as asset-light warehousing, transportation management, and freight brokerage capability. In addition, Transport Enterprise Leasing is an affiliated company providing revenue equipment sales and leasing services to the trucking industry. Covenant's Class A common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol, "CVLG.” For further information contact: Paul Bunn, President [email protected] Tripp Grant, Chief Financial Officer [email protected] For copies of Company information contact: Brooke McKenzie, Executive Administrative Assistant [email protected]

Tech occupation unemployment rate inches down to 2.5% DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. , Dec. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The tech workforce saw modest movement in the latest national employment data, according to CompTIA , the nonprofit association for the tech industry and workforce. Analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) #JobsReport data reveals the tech unemployment rate for the month fell slightly to 2.5%, matching the low end of the rate for 2024. The national unemployment rate rose slightly to 4.2% in November. Employment within the technology industry sector was essentially flat with a decline of 1,636 jobs for the month. 1 The tech sector employs nearly 5.6 million people, which translates to a percentage decline of essentially 0%. Tech professions throughout the economy declined by 6,000 in a national workforce of nearly 6.5 million workers. 2 "While a flat month in the aggregate as some employers take a breather, the data continues to highlight the diversity of hiring activity across the tech workforce," Tim Herbert , chief research officer, CompTIA. "Across industry sectors, metro areas and company sizes harnessing tech talent remains a top priority." Active employer job postings for new hiring totaled more than 475,000 in November, down about 42,000 from October. 3 Companies added nearly 184,000 new tech job postings last month, with employers in consulting, finance, manufacturing and technology hardware, software and services among the most active. Artificial intelligence (AI) hiring momentum continues to build. In the aggregate employers recorded nearly 331,000 active job postings throughout 2024 in recruiting for AI job roles and AI skills, a year-over-year increase of 71%. Across all tech occupations 44% of November postings did not specify a four-year degree requirement for applicants. Some occupations had notably higher percentages, including network support specialists (84%) and tech support specialists (71%). The data indicates hiring for work from home (WFH) positions is holding steady at about 20% of total tech job recruiting. On a hiring activity volume basis, the top WFH positions include software developers, IT project managers, data scientists and analysts, tech support specialists, and systems analysts. The "CompTIA Tech Jobs Report" is available at https://www.comptia.org/content/tech-jobs-report . About CompTIA The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) is the world's leading information technology (IT) certification and training body. CompTIA is a mission-driven organization committed to unlocking the potential of every student, career changer or professional seeking to begin or advance in a technology career. Millions of current and aspiring technology workers around the world rely on CompTIA for the training, education and professional certifications that give them the confidence and skills to work in tech. https://www.comptia.org/ 1 Labor market data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and employer job postings from Lightcast may be subject to backward revisions. 2 Monthly occupation level data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tends to experience higher levels of variance and volatility. 3 Active job postings include open postings carried over from previous months and new postings added by employers. Media Contact Steven Ostrowski CompTIA sostrowski@comptia.org +1.630.678.8468 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/latest-employment-data-shows-little-change-in-tech-job-market-comptia-analysis-finds-302325237.html SOURCE CompTIA

In a touching farewell ceremony held in Shenzhen, Oscar's owner, accompanied by friends, family, and members of the guide dog community, bid a heartfelt farewell to their beloved companion. Tears were shed, memories shared, and tributes paid to the incredible bond between man and guide dog.nn777 bet 。

Furthermore, the resilience and adaptability of Chinese SMEs have been put to the test amidst the global economic challenges, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite facing disruptions in supply chains, fluctuations in demand, and operational constraints, SMEs in China have demonstrated remarkable perseverance and flexibility in navigating through turbulent times. The ability of SMEs to pivot their business strategies, explore new markets, and diversify their offerings has been key to their continued growth and success.Defensively, Tang Si was a force to be reckoned with, registering 2 steals and 2 blocks to disrupt the opposing team's offensive flow and protect the rim. His quick hands and anticipation allowed him to anticipate passes and jump passing lanes, leading to fast-break opportunities for his team. Additionally, his shot-blocking presence deterred opponents from attacking the paint and forced them to settle for outside shots, effectively shutting down their interior scoring.

One of the prominent expectations for the real estate market next year is a greater emphasis on sustainable development initiatives. With increasing awareness of climate change and environmental sustainability, there is a growing demand for eco-friendly and energy-efficient properties. Developers are expected to focus more on building environmentally friendly structures and implementing green technologies to meet the evolving needs of buyers and tenants.

In conclusion, Lululemon's success in small cities in China serves as a testament to the brand's strategic approach to market expansion and its ability to connect with consumers on a deeper level. By staying agile, innovative, and attuned to evolving consumer trends, Lululemon has positioned itself as a frontrunner in China's competitive market, showcasing impressive growth and potential for the future.

As the investigations continue, one thing is certain – the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the political landscape of the country. It is a moment of truth and a test of the resilience of the nation's institutions, as they strive to uphold the values of integrity, accountability, and justice in the face of adversity.In conclusion, while the new security inspection regulations may bring about some challenges and adjustments for passengers, Guangzhou Metro Customer Service's assurance that the normalized security measures will remain unchanged provides a sense of continuity and stability. By working together, passengers and metro authorities can contribute to creating a safer and more secure metro system for everyone.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Yamashita and Chou at the recent concert was a resounding success. Their performance was not only musically spectacular but also a testament to the power of music to unite people and transcend boundaries. It was a night filled with magic and pure musical bliss, leaving fans clamoring for more from these two extraordinary artists.As news of Professor Guo being called "Guo Wheat" spread beyond the borders of the farming community, it has sparked a wider conversation about the importance of grassroots recognition and the impact of genuine collaboration between experts and practitioners. Many have applauded Professor Guo for his humility, his dedication to serving the farming community, and his ability to inspire positive change through mutual respect and shared learning.

As the dust settled on the battlefield, one thing was clear - the Grip of the Century 2.0 had lived up to its name, delivering a spectacle that will be etched in the memories of football fans for years to come. The Hammer Wolves and the Steel Hawks may have clashed on the pitch, but in the end, it was the beautiful game that emerged as the ultimate winner.

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bullish stance on Constellation Energy . Looking at options history for Constellation Energy CEG we detected 52 trades. If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 46% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 30% with bearish. From the overall spotted trades, 5 are puts, for a total amount of $281,144 and 47, calls, for a total amount of $2,195,419. Predicted Price Range After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $180.0 and $360.0 for Constellation Energy, spanning the last three months. Volume & Open Interest Development Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Constellation Energy's options for a given strike price. Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Constellation Energy's whale trades within a strike price range from $180.0 to $360.0 in the last 30 days. Constellation Energy Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview Largest Options Trades Observed: Symbol PUT/CALL Trade Type Sentiment Exp. Date Ask Bid Price Strike Price Total Trade Price Open Interest Volume CEG CALL TRADE NEUTRAL 01/17/25 $6.5 $6.3 $6.4 $300.00 $128.0K 4.1K 440 CEG CALL SWEEP BEARISH 12/20/24 $6.0 $5.8 $5.8 $280.00 $115.4K 782 342 CEG CALL SWEEP BULLISH 12/20/24 $18.5 $17.2 $17.85 $250.00 $107.6K 859 447 CEG PUT TRADE BEARISH 01/16/26 $21.7 $19.3 $21.0 $210.00 $105.0K 21 50 CEG CALL TRADE BEARISH 02/21/25 $24.3 $22.5 $22.5 $260.00 $101.2K 271 45 About Constellation Energy Constellation Energy Corp offers energy solutions. It provides clean energy and sustainable solutions to homes, businesses, the public sector, community aggregations, and a range of wholesale customers (such as municipalities, cooperatives, and other strategics). The company offers comprehensive energy solutions and a variety of pricing options for electric, natural gas, and renewable energy products for companies of any size. Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Constellation Energy, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance. Present Market Standing of Constellation Energy Currently trading with a volume of 2,588,934, the CEG's price is up by 5.87%, now at $263.55. RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought. Anticipated earnings release is in 91 days. Professional Analyst Ratings for Constellation Energy In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $283.2. Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days? 20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. Click here for access .* Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Barclays keeps a Overweight rating on Constellation Energy with a target price of $270. * An analyst from BMO Capital persists with their Outperform rating on Constellation Energy, maintaining a target price of $291. * An analyst from Morgan Stanley persists with their Overweight rating on Constellation Energy, maintaining a target price of $322. * An analyst from Mizuho persists with their Neutral rating on Constellation Energy, maintaining a target price of $235. * An analyst from BMO Capital has decided to maintain their Outperform rating on Constellation Energy, which currently sits at a price target of $298. Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely. If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Constellation Energy, Benzinga Pro gives you real-time options trades alerts. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

As we look towards the future, it is clear that the development of new productive forces will continue to drive economic growth and sustainable development. By harnessing the power of innovation, technology, and collaboration, businesses can unlock new opportunities, enhance productivity, and create a more resilient and inclusive economy.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Yamashita and Chou at the recent concert was a resounding success. Their performance was not only musically spectacular but also a testament to the power of music to unite people and transcend boundaries. It was a night filled with magic and pure musical bliss, leaving fans clamoring for more from these two extraordinary artists.

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 28, 2024-- Halper Sadeh LLC, an investor rights law firm, is investigating whether the sale of Retail Opportunity Investments Corp. (NASDAQ: ROIC) to Blackstone for $17.50 per share is fair to Retail Opportunity shareholders. Halper Sadeh encourages Retail Opportunity shareholders to click here to learn more about their legal rights and options or contact Daniel Sadeh or Zachary Halper at (212) 763-0060 or sadeh@halpersadeh.com or zhalper@halpersadeh.com . The investigation concerns whether Retail Opportunity and its board of directors violated the federal securities laws and/or breached their fiduciary duties to shareholders by failing to, among other things: (1) obtain the best possible consideration for Retail Opportunity shareholders; (2) determine whether Blackstone is underpaying for Retail Opportunity; and (3) disclose all material information necessary for Retail Opportunity shareholders to adequately assess and value the merger consideration. On behalf of Retail Opportunity shareholders, Halper Sadeh LLC may seek increased consideration for shareholders, additional disclosures and information concerning the proposed transaction, or other relief and benefits. We would handle the action on a contingent fee basis, whereby you would not be responsible for out-of-pocket payment of our legal fees or expenses. Halper Sadeh LLC represents investors all over the world who have fallen victim to securities fraud and corporate misconduct. Our attorneys have been instrumental in implementing corporate reforms and recovering millions of dollars on behalf of defrauded investors. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241228128629/en/ CONTACT: Halper Sadeh LLC One World Trade Center 85th Floor New York, NY 10007 Daniel Sadeh, Esq. Zachary Halper, Esq. (212) 763-0060 sadeh@halpersadeh.com zhalper@halpersadeh.com https://www.halpersadeh.com KEYWORD: NEW YORK UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES LEGAL SOURCE: Halper Sadeh LLC Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/28/2024 03:04 PM/DISC: 12/28/2024 03:04 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241228128629/en

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Biden calls Bashar Assad's fall in Syria a 'fundamental act of justice' — but warns of 'moment of risk'Whilst many may be eager to enjoy a tipple or two out over the festive period, you may be worried about leaving your four-legged friend behind at home. Well fear not - there are plenty of excellent pubs and venues across the region so you and your pooch can enjoy a well deserved rest, pint and even a doggy beer. Below is a round up of some of the best dog-friendly pubs and restaurants in and around the North East where well behaved dogs are welcome. Head of Steam 11-17 Broad Chare, Newcastle Upon Tyne , NE1 3DQ. Located on the busy Newcastle Quayside, Head of Steam is the perfect place for pooches to enjoy a 'pint of Pawroni'. The City Tavern 10 Northumberland Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 8JF. Very dog friendly, and even known for it's resident hounds, The City Tavern even stocks special gourmet dog treats. The Millstone Mill Rise, South Gosforth, NE3 1QL. Just a stone's throw away from the picturesque Jesmond Dene, this pub is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink after a stroll. The Punch Bowl 125 Jesmond Rd, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 1JY. This area is not only family friendly but also has dog-friendly features, including seats for animals, and an animal-focused food and drinks menu. The Brandling Villa Haddricks Mill Rd, South Gosforth , NE3 1QL. A popular spot that even offers a special 'Doggos 4 Lyf' menu to set tails wagging. The Tyne Bar 1 Maling St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 1LP. Dogs are welcome to the popular independent Ouseburn live music venue, best known for its beer garden overlooking the river Tyne. The Northumberland Hussar Sackville Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 5SY. Just a short walk from both Jesmond Dene and Armstrong Park, known for its extensive food menu, the Hussar welcomes dogs at all times. The Bridge Tavern 7 Akenside Hill, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3UF. Located on the Quayside and hidden just under the Tyne Bridge, serving real ales from its own micro-brewery on site, dogs are welcome. Fog on the Tyne South Shore Road, Gateshead , NE8 3AF. Formally The Schooner, having been beautifully renovated under new owners this summer and crowned winners of the UK's best pie - The Fog on the Tyne is dog friendly. Bay Horse Front St, Whickham, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE16 4EF. Pets are welcome in the designated cosy front area of this traditional pub. Beer drop 529-531 Durham Rd, Low Fell, Gateshead NE9 6HX. Opened in 2022, this micropub specialising in craft beer welcomes dogs. The Black Bull Bridge St, Blaydon-on-Tyne, NE21 4JJ. Furry friends are welcome to this traditional pub with views over the Tyne valley. The Keel Row Foremans Row, NE25 0QG. The popular family Northumberland Pub was crowned the most 'dog friendly' pub in the North East this September for spoiling dogs with free treats and water on tap from the barrel. The Badger Street Houses, Ponteland, NE20 9BT. Built in the 1700s, the Northumberland venue is a typical country pub with roaring log fires which dogs can curl up in front of. The Tannery Gilesgate, Hexham, NE46 3QD. The Tannery has a great selection of real ales and even a doggy beer too. The Blue Bell The Blue Bell, Hill St, Corbridge, NE45 5AA. This cosy pub with over 200 years of history is set in the centre of Corbridge village, known for its large beer garden and a dog friendly paw station. Amble Inn Sandpiper Way, Amble, Morpeth, NE65 0FF. Perfect for after a walk in Druidge Bay, the Amble Inn also offers free dog treats and even doggy beer. The Grey Horse 115 Sherburn Terrace, Consett DH8 6NE. Not only is this popular pub one of the oldest in the region - but it was voted best pub in the North East . The Dun Cow 37 Old Elvet, Durham, DH1 3HN. Stepped in history at the heart of Durham city centre, it claims to be the oldest in the city. It's popular with the local student population and also welcomes dogs. The Sticky Wicket Seat Unique Riverside, Chester-le-Street DH3 3QR. Perfect to call in to after a walk around the Riverside Park. Ye Olde Elm Tree 12 Crossgate, St Margarets Garth, Durham DH1 4PS. One of Durham's oldest and cosiest pub and set in the heart of the city. Kings Arms Beach Street Deptford Sunderland SR4 6BU. The historic and one of Sunderland's oldest pubs claims whilst 'dogs are welcome, dafties aren't'. The Seaburn Inn Whitburn Rd, Seaburn, Sunderland, SR6 8AA. Close to plenty of stunning coastal walks, dogs are welcome in both the restaurant and hotel. The Promenade 1-2 Queen's Ave, Sunderland, SR6 8DA. Dogs are welcome in this little gem of a pubs snug, with a doggy menu available. The Beehive Hartley Lane, Whitley Bay , NE25 0SZ. The historic pub located near the village of Earsdon makes for the perfect place to enjoy a pint after a countryside walk The Dog and Rabbit 36 Park View, Whitley Bay NE26 2TH. Voted best North Tyneside best pub of the year, the micropub brews its own beer on the premises. Square and Compass 207 Park View, Whitley Bay, NE26 3RD.. Known for its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, dogs are welcome. The Ship's Cat Union Rd, Tanners' Bank, North Shields , NE30 1JH. All well behaved dogs are welcome to pop along to tis pub after a coastal walk which claims its happy to keep all furry friends happy, hydrated and chill. The Sand Dancer 2 Sea Rd, South Shields NE33 2LD. Located right on the beach with stunning views over the coast, dogs are welcome inside the restaurant. The Lord Nelson Monkton Ln, Monkton Village, Hebburn, Jarrow NE32 5NN. Located in the scenic Monkton village, the family-friendly pub treats furry friends like the VIP they truly are. Join our Things To Do community for all the latest news What's On news sent direct to your phone. To join you need to have WhatsApp on your device. All you need to do is click on the link and press 'join community' . No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the ChronicleLive team. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you’re curious, you can read our privacy notice . CLICK HERE TO JOINNew Travel Alert for Skiers Traveling to Colorado During Year End Trip as Snow Storm to Bring Widespread Chaos and DisruptionFrom Caribbean favourites to everyday vegetarian recipes: Observer Food Monthly’s best food books of 2024

A nation in mourning: Remembering the unmatched legacy of Dr. Manmohan Singh

So, what worked for the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led INDIA grouping in the just concluded assembly election in Jharkhand? A trend emerges if one looks at the polls in the state in conjunction with those in Maharashtra (just concluded) and Haryana (in October) — pro-poor welfare policies are reshaping the form and content of democracy in the country. Due to the impact of these social welfare policies, a voter segment of beneficiaries (labharthi) has emerged that is choosing parties that launched/implemented such policies successfully, beyond caste and religious boundaries. Among these beneficiaries, women constitute a cohesive and organised sub-group, possibly given their resilience in the face of hardships in the everyday life of households. So, social welfare policies such as Ladli Behna Yojana in Madhya Pradesh, Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana in Maharashtra, and Maiya Samman Yojana in Jharkhand, which provide monthly financial support to women, have paid rich dividends and mobilised women beneficiaries in favour of political parties that conceptualised, launched and implemented these. A factor behind the victory of the INDIA bloc in Jharkhand is undoubtedly the impact of this and the other popular social support schemes launched and implemented by the Hemant Soren government. Policies such as Savitribai Phule Kishori Samriddhi Yojana for young girls, Abua Awas Yojana, Birsa Harit Gram Yojana evolved a class of beneficiaries who likely voted for the JMM and its alliance partners in these elections. Democratic electoral politics is also about economics. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Viksit Bharat vision places significant importance on such schemes helping empower the poor who then evolve into a homogeneous beneficiary “caste”. This beneficiary “caste” will then tend to favour the political parties that disseminate benefits to the needy. Hemant Soren and the JMM also cultivated sympathy over the former’s imprisonment, projecting him as a victim of retributive politics. Slogans such as “jail ke badle vote” ( vote as the answer to jailing leaders) worked well in favour of the JMM and the INDIA grouping. Soren’s wife Kalpana Soren’s campaign in tribal areas strengthened the narrative of victimisation. Tribal communities constitute around 28% of the state’s population. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) tried hard to mobilise tribal voters through a narrative of pro-tribal governance policies and a focus on upholding and celebrating “tribal pride”. The party and its allies do have many tribal faces but, Hemant Soren retained the edge when it came to the trust of tribal communities — tribals have consistently remained the base vote for the JMM in certain parts of Jharkhand since a long time. Tribal identity politics remains strong in obvious and not-so-obvious ways. The poll results show that the JMM has a stronger connect with this identity, as asserted by the tribal communities in the state. The party’s emphasis on the implementation of a Sarna (a dominant tribal belief system in the state) Code intensified the identity assertion of many tribal communities. The BJP tried to stoke fears of “outsider” intrusion (through not-so-subtle claims of Bangladeshis and Rohingyas being allowed to settle in the state). The narrative failed to penetrate the tribal zones in the state. Another big factor in the polls was the INDIA bloc’s projection of a single chief ministerial face (Hemant Soren) versus the poorly veiled factionalism within the BJP (with widely discussed contenders being Arjun Munda, Babulal Marandi, Raghubar Das, and even Champai Soren, who joined the BJP from the JMM after a short stint as chief minister). The confusion over the leadership question in the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) cost it dearly. The JMM/INDIA grouping’s victory is the outcome of several strong factors, as discussed here (a strong victimisation narrative, social welfare schemes, and the politics of tribal selfhood). The last, of course, was potent to the extent it defeated the BJP’s competing narrative of tribal pride. And, as far as spinning welfare schemes as vote magnets is concerned, while the BJP has repeatedly played a strong hand by parading the reach and superior implementation of such schemes designed by the Centre, it was the local schemes that mattered more in this election when it came to establishing beneficiary connect and seeking votes. Therein lies the message for the political class and democracy at large. Badri Narayan is director, GB Pant Social Science Institute. The views expressed are personalOCDSB trustees vote to sanction fellow trustee after antisemitism complaint

NBA Don't miss out on the headlines from NBA. Followed categories will be added to My News. LeBron James has a bold message to the NFL as it competes for eyeballs on Christmas Day. This is still the NBA’s holiday. Since the 2020 season, the NFL has played at least one game on Christmas, and even with this year’s festivities happening on a Wednesday, the league scheduled two games after Netflix shelled out a whopping $A240 million to stream them exclusively, the NY Post reports. Average of 9 LIVE Regular Season games per week plus the best of the NBA Playoffs, including every game of the NBA Conference Finals & NBA Finals LIVE on ESPN, available via Kayo New to Kayo? Get your first month for just $1. Limited time offer. But Christmas Day has been a tradition in the NBA since 1947 with a slate of games usually being spread across the whole day. This Christmas included a game between James’ Lakers and the Warriors — a contest that instantly became a classic as the two teams traded buckets late in the waning seconds. First, Steph Curry tied things up with a 3-pointer with 7.1 seconds left on the clock before Los Angeles’ Austin Reaves won it for the Lakers with a layup with one second remaining. Steph put on a show. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) But Reaves won it for the Lakers. (Photo by David Crane/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images) And it wasn’t the only Xmas Day game that proved to be a thriller. All three of the holiday’s previous games finished within a six-point margin, including a wild 117-114 win for the New York Knicks over the San Antonion Spurs. That was in contrast to the NFL, which saw the Kansas City Chiefs knock off the Pittsburgh Steelers, 29-10, before the Baltimore Ravens shellacked the Houston Texans, 31-2. Keeping all this in mind, James made his thoughts clear about the two leagues playing on Christmas. “Merry Christmas to my family back home, I’m coming home,” James told ESPN in a postgame interview on the court at Chase Center in San Francisco. “And I love the NFL. I love the NFL. But Christmas is our day.” LeBron was blunt about who the day belonged to. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) Sorry NFL, it’s the NBA’s day. Joe Sargent/Getty Images/AFP This came just a day after Cowboys owner Jerry Jones made clear he hopes there are football games going forward on Christmas — no matter the day of the week. “Christmas Day is Christmas Day, and it doesn’t wait around for what day it’s on. We want to be there on Christmas Day,” Jones said during a Dallas radio interview. “I would think the future is whatever day it’s on, we’re going to be there on Christmas.” But former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger felt differently, speaking to how gruelling a short week can be for professional football players. “It’s miserable,” Roethlisberger said on his “Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger” podcast this week. “It’s a shame that the league does this. It just shows that it’s all about money and this is a way that they can make more money and figure this thing out because it’s not fair for the players.” Whether or not the two leagues continue to go head-to-head during future midweek Christmas Days, the NBA can say it had the more competitive group of games on this holiday. This article originally appeared on the NY Post and was reproduced with permission. More Coverage ‘BOAT-BREAKING’: Club defends call to send fleet into ‘terrifying’ weather Tyson Otto Feeding frenzy as India turns on Kohli Alex Blair Originally published as LeBron James delivers blunt swipe to NFL over Christmas Day games Join the conversation Add your comment to this story To join the conversation, please log in. Don't have an account? Register Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout More related stories NBA America loses it as Aussie makes history Australian NBA star Dyson Daniels has sent America into meltdown after etching his name into the record books on Tuesday. Read more NBA Star thrown out after nuclear meltdown Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid was ejected in heated scenes as he launched a scathing tirade over one questionable play. Read more

Watch: Flyer from Riyadh held for smuggling gold in cream box at Delhi airport

Analysts update Asana stock price target after earningsStrictly Come Dancing host breaks down in tears after star's emotional five-word admissionHas Kim Kardashian Gone MAGA?

Alibaba Group Holding Ltd BABA BABAF and PDD Holdings Inc PDD were once the shining stars of China's e-commerce universe, but recent performance metrics suggest they're caught in a gravitational pull downward . Let's dive into the tale of two stocks that seem to be competing for the title of ‘most bearish trend.’ Alibaba: The Resilient Underdog? Alibaba's stock, at $86.73, has weathered a mix of optimism and anxiety. It's up 12.12% over the past year, but the last month saw a sharp 13.01% decline. Chart created using Benzinga Pro Technically, the stock screams ‘bearish’ as it lingers below key moving averages, including its 20-day and 50-day simple moving averages (SMAs). Yet, with its eight-day SMA at $86.18 and 200-day SMA at $82.52, there's a faint glimmer of hope—potential buyers might find solace in its nearly oversold RSI of 38.51. Investor sentiment remains tepid, but big names like Soros Capital Management and Bridgewater Associates are quietly building stakes. Is Alibaba the beaten-down stock that contrarians love to bet on? Maybe, but upcoming U.S. tariffs could spoil the progress. Read Also: Alibaba Reshapes E-Commerce Operations, Names Jiang Fan as Unit CEO PDD Holdings: The High-Flyer Turned Free-Faller PDD's stock paints a darker picture. After a blistering run with Temu 's U.S. expansion, the company now faces an aggressive sell-off. Down 33.22% over six months and 20.52% in the past month, it seems Wall Street is questioning the sustainability of Temu's discount-driven strategy. Chart created using Benzinga Pro Technical indicators are grim, with the MACD at a negative 6.18 and an RSI of 28.79 signaling oversold territory. Even institutional love, like Fisher Asset Management upping its stake, hasn't stopped analysts from jumping ship. JPMorgan downgraded PDD to neutral with a slashed price target of $105, while Benchmark trimmed its target to $160 from $185. Meanwhile, fears over regulatory risks and national security concerns tied to Temu only add to the bearish momentum. The Verdict: Avoid Or Opportunistic Entry? Both stocks are under pressure, but PDD's steeper declines and bearish outlook suggest it's in a riskier position. Alibaba, with its diversified revenue streams and slightly less dramatic drop, might hold more appeal for the brave. Still, with Trump-era tariffs looming, both stocks might have more turbulence ahead. For now, it's about ‘who's losing less badly,’ and neither is doing well. Read Next: The Fall of Ant Group’s IPO: Alibaba’s Missteps, Legal Battles, and a $433.5M Settlement © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.Four injured in two-car crash on Pacific Highway as holiday traffic banks upGhana's former president John Drahami Mahama won a historic comeback election victory on Sunday after the ruling party accepted defeat with voters appearing to punish them for the government's handling of an economic crisis. Following Saturday's election, New Patriotic Party candidate Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia on Sunday conceded Ghanaians wanted change after he failed to shake off widespread frustration over high costs of living. His defeat ended eight years in power for the NPP under President Nana Akufo-Addo, whose last term was marked by the west African state's worst economic turmoil in years, high inflation and a debt default. For opposition National Democratic Congress party's Mahama, president from 2012-2017, it was his third attempt to reclaim the top post after falling short in 2016 and 2020 elections. "Former president Mahama has won the presidential election decisively," Bawumia told a press conference. Mahama's NDC also won the parliament elections, Bawumia said, referring to the NPP's own internal collation of election results. "The people of Ghana have spoken, the people have voted for change at this time and we respect it with all humility," he said. The speedy concession came as official vote tallies were still arriving. Electoral authorities have yet to announce the results for the presidential and parliament ballots. Blaring horns and whistles and waving the party's green, white and red flags, Mahama supporters took the streets to celebrate outside the party campaign office in the capital Accra. "They said he can't come back, and he has come. The nation builder is back to build our Ghana for us," said trader and Mahama supporter Leyla Alhassan enjoying the celebrations. Mahama has yet to speak publicly. But on his X account, Mahama confirmed he received Bawumia's congratulatory call over his "emphatic victory". The US embassy in Accra also applauded a "successful election that reflects the will of the Ghanaian people." "The United States looks forward to continuing our strong partnerships under" Mahama, it said on X. Ghana's economic woes dominated the election, after the continent's top gold producer and world's second cacao exporter went through a crisis of default and currency devaluation, ending with a $3 billion IMF bailout. Earlier, NDC spokesman Sammy Gyamfi told reporters the party's internal review of results showed Mahama won 56.3 percent of the vote against 41.3 percent for Bawumia. Political parties had agents at polling stations to observe and tally the initial vote counts before the ballots were sent for official collation by the election commission. The commission had said official results were likely due by Tuesday. With a history of democratic stability, Ghana's two main parties, the NPP and NDC, have alternated in power equally since the return to multi-party politics in 1992. Under the slogan "Break the 8" -- a reference to two terms in power -- Bawumia had sought to lead the NPP to an unprecedented third term. But he struggled to break away from criticism of Akufo-Addo's economic record. Though inflation slowed from more than 50 percent to around 23 percent, and other macro-economic indicators are stabilising, economic struggles were still a clear election issue for many. That frustration opened the way for a comeback from Mahama, who came to the presidency in 2012 when he was serving as vice president and then President John Atta Mills died in office. During campaigning this year, the former president also faced criticism from those who remember his government's own financial problems especially the massive power cuts that marked his time in office. bur/pma/giv/ju

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On November 27, the German Ambassador to Georgia, , gave an interview to the UN Global Compact Network Georgia, talking about Georgia’s stalled EU accession process, German-Georgian relations, and the impact of Georgia’s drift away from the EU on Georgia’s economy and investment attractiveness. Ambassador Fischer described the current state of German-Georgian relations as a crisis, saying: “We are at an impasse now.” He emphasized that the EU had granted Georgia candidate status as a “sign of love and affection,” despite the Georgian government’s failure to meet the nine conditions for candidacy. Following this gesture, however, he noted a shift in the Georgian government’s rhetoric and actions, including the reintroduction of the Foreign Agents law, which he called “gross contradiction” with EU values, and anti-LGBTQ legislation. He also criticized accusations against Germany and the EU of being “foreign agents”, attempting to drag Georgia into war in Ukraine, or promoting “liberal fascism”. Commenting on the GD government’s insistence that the EU integration process continues, Ambassador said that last June and then again in October, “the leaders of the European Union decided and wrote down in their decision that the accession process has come to a halt. It’s also written down. Nobody here bothers to read it, but I recommend to read it.” He further said: “The government is telling you, no, nothing is halted. We decide what’s halted and what’s not halted. The candidate doesn’t decide. So it’s halted, and if you ask me, I don’t see it coming back on track in the near future.” The Ambassador further spoke of the October 26 elections in Georgia, saying that “the way the election was conducted is not compatible with what we expect from a candidate country.” He said that “the accession process has come to a standstill” adding: “So it’s a crisis, and I think there’s a high risk that maybe you missed your opportunity.” Ambassador Fischer also highlighted the missed opportunities for Georgia’s business sector due to limited integration with the EU market, despite the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA) in place since 2016. He noted that Georgian exports to the EU have only increased minimally, by about 2%, primarily due to non-compliance with EU standards, such as phytosanitary regulations for agricultural products. Fischer emphasized the importance of aligning with EU standards to access “one of the world’s “most prosperous markets”, warning that the current crisis in EU-Georgia relations and Georgia’s stalled European integration deter potential investors and undermine economic progress. He pointed out the attractiveness of the EU’s structured legal and business framework “that people know, that they feel familiar with, and that is also safe.” “That’s why we invest mainly, amongst ourselves,” he said adding that Georgia’s getting closer to the EU opens it for European businessmen. But Georgia’s drifts away from EU, he said, which has led to hesitancy among foreign investors, including German businesses. Some have reconsidered or even withdrawn their investments, such as Heidelberg Cement, which exited the Georgian market. Amb. Fischer argued that a lack of alignment with EU frameworks leaves Georgia as a small, emerging market in the South Caucasus with limited appeal for large-scale investment. He also warned of the negative effects of drifting away from the EU in terms of the impact on the national currency, the emigration of the young, the fluctuations in the stock market prices of Georgian companies that are listed on foreign stock exchanges and other factors.RAPID CITY, MI — Homebuyers have the unique opportunity of playing Yellowstone rancher to a Northern Michigan backdrop. The Adirondack-inspired estate, located at 8051 Glade Valley Rd NW in Rapid City, that’s a cohesive blend of luxury living and natural splendor is MLive’s House of the Week. Homes from across the state are showcased each Wednesday Listed at $13.9 million by Johnny Crane of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices , the six-bedroom, six-and-one-half-bathroom Northern Michigan property features a main lodge, entertainment barn and 466 acres for outdoor adventure. “It’s essentially a Yellowstone ranch with as nice a home as you’ll find in Michigan. You don’t see this combination of beautiful, diverse acreage and luxury living,” Crane said. “The person who is going to enjoy this property appreciates high quality craftsmanship and understands how beautiful the heart of Northern Michigan is.” The main lodge and guest barn boast a combined 9,700 square feet of living space set on four acres of manicured grounds. Inspired by a profound admiration for Adirondack architecture, Crane said the owners embarked on multiple trips to upstate New York alongside their design team to ensure authenticity. The interior design of both homes were orchestrated by Francesca Owings Design of Grand Rapids. The property is offered fully furnished. A significant portion of the furniture, accessories and décor were handpicked from Dartbrook Rustic Goods, a boutique in Keene, N.Y. known for its expertise in Adirondack furnishings. Inside the Adirondack-inspired main lodge of a property located at 8051 Glade Valley Rd in Rapid City. Photos provided by WayUp Media Crafted in 2017, the main lodge is an architectural wonder. It spans 5,888 square feet, offering four bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms. The interior surfaces are made almost entirely of premium woods with specialty paint finishes. Year-round comfort is provided with in-floor radiant heat and forced air. Lighting and audio in the main living areas and primary suite care managed with in-home technology. The main room in the lodge proudly features an Adirondack stone fireplace. The focal point is supported by a three foot thick stone wall. All stones were sourced directly from the Adirondack region and integrated into property interiors and exteriors. Above, the cathedral ceiling is embellished with massive hand hewed beams and chandeliers made of elk antlers. An open concept floor plan, wet bar and multiple seating areas makes the space ideal for entertaining guests. The chef’s kitchen features a Subzero refrigerator, dual dishwashers, an industrial stove and an oversized island with two-inch-thick soapstone counters. There’s plenty of storage with custom cabinetry and a walk-in pantry. The Bavarian-themed dining room is a unique octagon shape, featuring taxidermy from decommissioned castles, exquisite trim work and abundant natural light. The primary suite of a home located at 8051 Glade Valley Rd in Rapid City. Photos provided by WayUp Media Tucked away in its own wing, a sunlit hallway leads to the primary suite with a water feature flowing below. The Scandinavian-inspired oasis is adorned with white-washed alder wood, cathedral ceilings and built-in cabinetry for a personalized coffee bar. In the primary bathroom, a soaking tub offers elevated views of the outdoors. Its accompanied by custom-built Adirondack-style vanities and a spacious owner’s closet with its own washer and dryer. Along the corridor leading to the primary suite, an office nook offers a picturesque vista of the spring-fed pond. The Moroccan-inspired guest room inside the main lodge of a property located at 8051 Glade Valley Rd in Rapid City. Photos provided by WayUp Media Located at the southern end of the main lodge, one of the guest rooms emanates cultural richness and worldly travel. The room is embellished with authentic antiques from Morocco and paint colors that pay homage to the region’s vibrant palette. The Moroccan room offers two sets of built-in bunk beds, its own dedicated bathroom and access to an additional guest bedroom in the loft above. Hallways and corridors serve as conversation pieces, enriched with bespoke wood finishes, artwork and antiques. The equipment hall has custom cabinetry that accommodates outdoor activity with fly rod mounts and a secure gun case. The interior of a home located at 8051 Glade Valley Rd in Rapid City. Photos provided by WayUp Media Built in 2021, the guest barn features ten-foot overhead doors and cedar wall coverings. The space is meant for large gatherings or more functional day-to-day use and storage. This 3,888 square foot indoor space features two bedrooms, three bathrooms, a cocktail lounge and spa. The Hemingway Bar and Cocktail Lounge is decorated with a selection of antique and custom furnishings, including a vintage pool table and a built-in gun case. Walls are adorned with a variety of antiques, paintings and books, evoking a sense of timelessness and nostalgia. The River’s Edge Spa is located within the guest house. Its complete with in-floor lighting, custom cedar sauna, massage beds and kitchenette. The exterior of the main lodge at a property located at 8051 Glade Valley Rd in Rapid City. Photos provided by WayUp Media The property encompassing an expanse of 466 acres, including nearly a mile of frontage along the Rapid River. The outdoor living area of the main lodge features a large deck and patio with a boardwalk ending at the river’s edge. It comes equipped with a built-in gas grill, custom smoker, Argentinian grill and a professional-grade wood-fired pizza oven for entertaining under the open skies. Screened porches in both the main lodge and guest barn extend outdoor through the four seasons. The grounds are maintained with English-style gardens and a rolling creek that runs under the main lodge. The entire four-acre grounds are irrigated, providing a lush lawn resembling a Kentucky horse farm. The 466-acre property of a home located at 8051 Glade Valley Rd in Rapid City. Photos provided by WayUp Media The property is not only a beautiful backdrop. Hardwood forests, undulating hills, expansive pastures and elevations reaching almost 1,000 feet are encompassed in this private bite of Northern Michigan scenery. A myriad of trails are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. A vast network of snowmobiling and UTV trails seamlessly connect to the property, promising endless exploration and outdoor excitement. For hunting enthusiasts, there’s an abundant mature whitetail deer population, as well as coyote and black bear, providing ample opportunities for thrilling pursuits. Upland bird hunting is also cherished here, with a plentiful population of grouse offering delightful autumn excursions. There are three raised platform blinds thoughtfully positioned across the estate. A sport clays course boasts three separate stations equipped with Wi-Fi- controlled commercial-grade clay pigeon launchers for effortless and enjoyable practice sessions. The exterior of the main lodge at a property located at 8051 Glade Valley Rd in Rapid City. Photos provided by WayUp Media The Rapid River meanders gracefully through the property, serving as a natural southern boundary. Its recognized for its quality and abundance of rainbow, brook and brown trout. Stocked annually with bass, perch and rainbow trout, a spring-fed pond near the main lodge provides a serene retreat for both fishing and relaxation. It connects directly to the river, ensuring consistent water levels during periods of drought or extreme heat. See some of the 120 images provided by WayUp Media above or view the full gallery by clicking here . View the listing of the home here .

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How big fossil-fuel-producing countries export emissions abroadLittler, who won the Grand Slam of Darts last week, hit checkouts of 170, 164 and 136 as he threatened to overturn an early deficit, but Humphries held his nerve to win the last three legs. “I’m really, really proud of that one to be honest,” Humphries told Sky Sports. “I didn’t feel myself this week playing-wise, I felt like I was a dart behind in a lot of the scenarios but there’s something that Luke does to you. He really drives me, makes me want to be a better player and I enjoy playing him. “He let me in really early in that first session to go 4-1 up, I never looked back and I’m proud that I didn’t take my foot off the gas. These big games are what I live for. “Luke is a special talent and he was right – I said to him I’ve got to get these (titles) early before he wins them all. “I’d love to be up here and hitting 105 averages like Luke is all the time but he’s a different calibre, he’s probably the best player in the world right now but there’s something about me that never gives up. “This is a great way to go into the worlds.” Littler, who lost the world championship final to Humphries last year, said: “It was tough, missed a few doubles and if you don’t take chances early on, it’s a lot to come back. “I hit the 170 and the 164 but just didn’t have enough in the end. “It’s been a good past two weeks. I just can’t wait to go home, chill out, obviously practice at home for the worlds. That’s it now, leading up to the big one.”

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NoneSen.-elect Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) isn’t going to let President-elect Donald Trump discourage him from doing his job in Congress. During a Sunday appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Schiff appeared unwavering when asked if he was worried about being targeted by Trump and his vows to retaliate against his political opponents. After host Kristen Welker shared a clip of Trump comparing Schiff and other Democrats to “the enemy from within,” the newly elected senator dismissed Trump’s “dictator talk” while warning Americans of the dangers of having an aspiring strongman in office. “Well, that’s dictator talk. That’s how autocrats talk,” Schiff said. “They want to make their political opposition an enemy, describe them in those terms. But look, I’m not concerned about myself. I’m going to do my job. I’m not going to have his threats intimidate me from doing so.” However, the California congressman said the Republican’s rhetoric should be cause for concern. Adam Schiff on Trump's "dictator talk": "The American people I think voted on the basis of the economy -- they wanted change to the economy -- they weren't voting for dictatorship. So I think he's going to misread his mandate if he thinks that's what voters chose him for." pic.twitter.com/4AXvRDvPj1 “Anytime you have someone that — particularly someone who’s going to become president of the United States — fawning over dictators, emulating their language, attacking the press, undermining our institutions — yeah, we should be concerned about it,” Schiff said. “Because at the end of the day, it means that the American people will suffer.” He went on to tell Welker that he believes American voters aren’t looking to see an autocrat in the Oval Office, despite Trump’s unbridled calls for retribution against his enemies. “The American people, I think, voted on the basis of the economy,” he said. “They wanted change to the economy. They weren’t voting for dictatorship. So, I think he is going to misread his mandate if that’s what he thinks voters chose him for.” Elsewhere in the interview, Schiff tried to contend with Democrats’ defeat on Election Day. Pointing to a global trend of incumbents losing ground in recent elections, he said, “Ultimately, what we saw both in this country and around the world was a very strong anti-incumbent wave that took out both progressives and conservatives.” “And our party became associated with the status quo, and that was too much to overcome,” he added. Related From Our Partner

Tories urge PM to reject Netanyahu arrest warrant and alter ‘nonsensical’ stanceAfter three sleepless nights of back and forth among negotiators, all it took to seal a contentious global deal on climate finance was the hammering of a gavel. And just as quickly, the denunciations began. In a year expected to be the hottest on record, the fate of the fight against climate change was haggled over for two weeks inside Azerbaijan’s Olympic Stadium, which has never held the Olympics but was transformed into a cavernous, windowless maze of conference rooms. The key issues showed no sign of resolution by the scheduled closing time of 6:00 pm on Friday, with Azerbaijan only convening a final session after midnight more than a day afterwards. But at nearly 3:00 am on Sunday, Azerbaijan’s stoic, silver-haired COP president Mukhtar Babayev raised the gavel. The deal, he announced, had been adopted. Most of the delegates took to the floor, some applauding loudly and others — such as those from oil producer Saudi Arabia — just watching politely. But no sooner was word of the deal out than countries were lining up to lodge complaints. Cuba and India both took to the floor to denounce it, as did Chile and typically amenable Switzerland. In a fiery address, India’s representative said the figure agreed in the deal — $300 billion a year to be paid by wealthy countries to poorer ones worst affected by climate change — was “abysmally low”. Chandni Raina accused Babayev of ignoring objections and going ahead to announce the agreement by consensus — a tactic repeatedly used at UN climate talks. “This has been stage-managed and we are extremely, extremely disappointed with this incident,” she said as she looked at him, while climate activists in the back of the room roared and pounded their desks in approval. Babayev, unflinching, responded, “Thank you for your statement.”

( MENAFN - EIN Presswire) The International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children is committed to advancing child protection and safeguarding vulnerable children around the world. ALEXANDRIA, VA, UNITED STATES, December 20, 2024 /EINPresswire / -- While the internet is an essential aspect of daily life today, it also brings substantial risks. According to a recent UNICEF report , more than a third of young people in 30 countries report being cyberbullied. Sexually explicit content, violent and hateful material, highly explicit language, cyberbullying, and online predators are prevalent and alarmingly accessible to children. CSI's position paper Device-Based Age Verification to Protect Children and Vulnerable Adults Online through Mandating the Default Activation of Parental Controls on Tech Device strongly advocates for the immediate adoption of device-based age verification. ICMEC's Model Bill for Protecting Children Online provides the building blocks of legislation to this end that can be adapted to any legislative context. Both publications outline the key issues associated with online child safety, including the consequences of unrestricted access, and the adoption of age verification instead of app-by-app and website-by-website verification as a protective measure. Both also acknowledge the important work underway by policymakers globally and legislative changes under consideration in many countries to strengthen the online protection of children. “As a non-partisan, global nonprofit committed to advancing child protection and safeguarding vulnerable children around the world, ICMEC calls on governments, regulators, policymakers, legislators and technology companies to work together to establish clear guidelines and global standards for device-based age verification” stated Travis Heneveld, Interim CEO at ICMEC. Deputy CEO of Crime Stoppers International Hayley van Loon noted,“Over 400 million websites operate without safety mechanisms to manage harmful content such as child sexual abuse material. Device-based age verification can leverage biometric authentication and secure hardware already embedded in cell phones, laptops, tablets, gaming consoles, and other devices to provide a high level of accuracy that surpasses traditional methods like self-reported birthdates, which are highly susceptible to misrepresentation and circumvention.” ICMEC International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children +1 703-837-6313 email us here Visit us on social media: Facebook X LinkedIn Instagram YouTube TikTok Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content "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 author above. MENAFN20122024003118003196ID1109018316 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.WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect allies on Capitol Hill rallied around , Trump’s Pentagon pick, on Thursday even as that he had sexually assaulted a woman in 2017. The GOP embrace of Hegseth came as another controversial Trump nominee, Matt Gaetz, withdrew from consideration for attorney general. Gaetz said it was clear he had become a “distraction" amid pressure on the House to release an ethics report about allegations of his own sexual misconduct. An attorney for two women has said that his clients told House Ethics Committee investigators that Gaetz paid them for sex on multiple occasions beginning in 2017, when Gaetz was a Florida congressman. Fresh questions over the two nominees' pasts, and their treatment of women, arose with Republicans under pressure from Trump and his allies to quickly confirm his Cabinet. At the same time, his transition has so far balked at the vetting and background checks that have traditionally been required. While few Republican senators have publicly criticized any of Trump's nominees, it became clear after Gaetz's withdrawal that many had been harboring private concerns about him. Oklahoma Sen. Markwayne Mullin, who served with Gaetz in the House, said it was a “positive move.” Mississippi Sen. Roger Wicker said it was a “positive development.” Maine Sen. Susan Collins said Gaetz “put country first and I am pleased with his decision.” After meeting with Hegseth, though, Republicans rallied around him. “I think he’s going to be in pretty good shape,” said Wicker, who is expected to chair the Senate Armed Services Committee in the next Congress. Republican senators' careful words, and their early reluctance to publicly question Trump's picks, illustrated not only their fear of retribution from the incoming president but also some of their hopes that the confirmation process can proceed normally, with proper vetting and background checks that could potentially disqualify problematic nominees earlier. Gaetz withdrew after meeting with senators on Wednesday. Sen. Thom Tillis said Gaetz was “in a pressure cooker” when he decided to withdraw, but suggested that it would have little bearing on Trump’s other nominees. “Transactions — one at a time,” he said. As the Hegseth nomination proceeds, Republicans also appear to be betting that they won't face much backlash for publicly setting aside the allegations of sexual misconduct — especially after Trump won election after being found liable for sexual abuse last year. Hegseth held a round of private meetings alongside incoming Vice President on Thursday in an attempt to shore up support and told reporters afterward: “The matter was fully investigated and I was completely cleared, and that’s where I’m gonna leave it.” A 22-page police report report late Wednesday offered the first detailed account of the allegations against him. A woman told police that she was sexually assaulted in 2017 by Hegseth after he took her phone, blocked the door to a California hotel room and refused to let her leave. The report cited police interviews with the alleged victim, a nurse who treated her, a hotel staffer, another woman at the event and Hegseth. Hegseth’s lawyer, Timothy Palatore, said the incident was “fully investigated and police found the allegations to be false.” Hegseth the threat of what he described as a baseless lawsuit, Palatore has said. Wicker played down the allegations against Hegseth, a former Fox News host, saying that “since no charges were brought from the authorities, we only have press reports.” Sen. Bill Hagerty, R-Tenn., said after his meeting with Hegseth that he "shared with him the fact that I was saddened by the attacks that are coming his way.” Hagerty dismissed the allegations as “a he-said, she-said thing” and called it a “shame” that they were being raised at all. The senator said attention should instead be focused on the Defense Department that Hegseth would head. It's one of the most complex parts of the federal government with more than 3 million employees, including military service members and civilians. Sexual assault has been a persistent problem in the military, though they are seeing a decline among active-duty service members and the military academies. Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso, who will be the No. 2 Republican in the Senate next year, said after his meeting with Hegseth that the nominee is a strong candidate who “pledged that the Pentagon will focus on strength and hard power – not the current administration’s woke political agenda.” Senate Republicans are under pressure to hold hearings once they take office in January and confirm nominees as soon as Trump is inaugurated, despite questions about whether Trump’s choices will be properly screened or if some, like Hegseth, have enough experience for the job. Senate Armed Services Chairman Jack Reed, who will be the top Democrat on the panel next year, said the reports on Hegseth “emphasized the need for a thorough investigation by the FBI on the background of all the nominees.” It takes a simple majority to approve Cabinet nominations, meaning that if Democrats all opposed a nominee, four Republican senators would also have to defect for any Trump choice to be defeated. Trump has made clear he’s willing to put maximum pressure on Senate Republicans to give him the nominees he wants – even suggesting at one point that they allow him to just appoint his nominees with no Senate votes. But senators insist, for now, that they are not giving up their constitutional power to have a say. “The president has the right to make the nominations that he sees fit, but the Senate also has a responsibility for advice and consent,” said Republican Sen. Mike Rounds of South Dakota. In the case of Gaetz, he said, “I think there was advice offered rather than consent.” 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.The Bull Market Keeps Growing: 3 Reasons to Buy Shopify Like There’s No Tomorrow

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NoneWASHINGTON (AP) — A freelance photographer and local government official from Illinois has been arrested on charges alleging he joined a mob's attack on the U.S. Capitol and pushed against a police officer’s riot shield, according to court records unsealed on Friday. Patrick Gorski, 27, was arrested in Chicago on Thursday on charges including obstructing law enforcement officers during a civil disorder, a felony. A federal judge ordered him released on bond after his initial court appearance. Gorski didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment. An attorney who represented him after his arrest declined to comment on Gorski's behalf. Authorities allege that during the attack, Gorski climbed scaffolding, breaching police lines, and took photos and videos inside the building. He yelled at officers, pushed against an officer's riot shield and was eventually forced out after being sprayed with a chemical irritant, authorities said. When the FBI interviewed him, Gorski did not claim that he was working as a photojournalist during the Jan. 6, 2021, riot and said he didn't bring his professional camera to the Capitol. He told federal agents that he had worked as a photographer for the Chicago Fire Department and for Donald Trump’s 2020 presidential campaign. He has not professionally published any photographs of the Capitol riot, according to the FBI. An FBI agent’s affidavit says some of Gorski’s sports photographs are available through Getty Images and have been “picked up” by The Associated Press and USA Today. Authorities said Gorski has continued to take photos at some local sporting events in Chicago but hasn't published any political photographs in the last five years. Gorski is not an Associated Press journalist and has never been employed by the news organization, said Lauren Easton, AP's vice president of corporate communications. "We have distributed some photos he took for AP’s photo partners and member news organizations," Easton said in a statement. Gorski's resume says he works as a building commissioner for the Village of Norridge, Illinois, and graduated earlier this year from Southeastern Illinois University with a master’s degree in public administration. He attended then-President Trump's “Stop the Steal” rally near the White House on Jan. 6 before he marched to the Capitol in a group of people that included conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and Owen Shroyer , who has hosted a show on Jones' Infowars website. On the west side of the Capitol, Gorski climbed up a wall onto stairs, helped another rioter onto the wall and removed a tarp covering scaffolding, according to the FBI. He climbed up and down the scaffolding before he helped pass a bike rack to other rioters, the agent's affidavit says. Gorski pointed and yelled at police officers outside the building. He also clapped and chanted, “Let us in!” After rioters broke through a police lines and sent officers retreating, Gorski hung a flag over the edge of a balcony. Gorski used his phone to take photos or videos inside a tunnel entrance that police were guarding, according to the affidavit. He screamed at the officers, “This is our house!” as he pushed against an officer’s riot shield, the FBI said. Gorski left the tunnel after several minutes and entered the Capitol through the Senate Wing door, taking more photos or videos inside the building, the affidavit says. An officer had to forcibly move Gorski from a doorway in another part of the Capitol, according to the agent. Gorski retreated after police sprayed him with a chemical irritant. Approximately one year after the attack, the FBI received a tip that Gorski had posted photos of the riot in a group chat with friends. More than 1,500 people have been charged with federal crimes stemming from the Capitol riot.

Rwanda on Friday announced the end of the Marburg virus disease outbreak, initially declared on Sept. 27. The announcement, by Minister of Health Sabin Nsanzimana at a press conference in the capital, Kigali, follows 42 consecutive days with no new cases after the discharge of the last confirmed patient, meeting World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Rwanda recorded its last confirmed case on Oct. 30 and its last Marburg-related death on Oct. 14. “This is an important milestone for Rwanda’s public health system. While we mourn the lives lost, we are encouraged by the progress made,” Nsanzimana said. “We have reached this point because of the dedication of our healthcare workers, the government, and our partners, whose seamless collaboration and swift, coordinated action made it possible to contain the outbreak effectively,” he said. “We have successfully identified the virus’s zoonotic origin, and we continue to strengthen our surveillance systems,” Nsanzimana added. According to a statement by the Ministry of Health, the outbreak, which began in mid-September 2024, resulted in 66 confirmed cases, including 15 deaths and 51 recoveries. Among the recoveries were two patients extubated after intensive care, marking a significant achievement in clinical management. Nsanzimana emphasized that while the epidemic is over, preventive measures will remain in place. Rwanda plans to use GPS technology to track bats, the virus’s primary carriers, to monitor their movements and habitats. “This is work we will continue to undertake to identify the locations of these bats,” he said. “This will allow us to monitor where they go and where they hide.” “This epidemic is unprecedented in our country and marks a significant challenge we have overcome,” the minister said. Brian Chirombo, the WHO representative to Rwanda, commended the country’s efforts in managing the epidemic. “In particular, I appreciate the strong leadership of the government and the collective effort of Rwandans in suppressing this epidemic that posed a serious threat to quality of life. Together, we fought it, and this victory was achieved,” he said. “However, this is not the end. The fight must continue,” Chirombo said. From the onset of the outbreak, Rwanda activated its pandemic response swiftly. A 24/7 command post was established to oversee all aspects of containment, including surveillance, testing, case management, vaccination, risk communication, and community engagement, according to the health ministry statement. The government, healthcare workers, and partners collaborated in a coordinated, evidence-based approach to control the outbreak efficiently and promptly, the statement added. The successful conclusion of the Marburg outbreak underscores Rwanda’s commitment to strengthening its health systems and ensuring preparedness for future health emergencies, the ministry said. The Marburg virus, a highly infectious pathogen with a fatality rate of up to 88 percent, causes hemorrhagic fever. Symptoms, including high fever and severe headache, typically appear within a week of exposure. It belongs to the same virus family as Ebola, according to the WHO. ■

WASHINGTON — As she checked into a recent flight to Mexico for vacation, Teja Smith chuckled at the idea of joining another Women’s March on Washington . As a Black woman, she just couldn’t see herself helping to replicate the largest act of resistance against then-President Donald Trump’s first term in January 2017. Even in an election this year where Trump questioned his opponent’s race , held rallies featuring racist insults and falsely claimed Black migrants in Ohio were eating residents’ pets , he didn't just win a second term. He became the first Republican in two decades to clinch the popular vote, although by a small margin. “It’s like the people have spoken and this is what America looks like,” said Smith, the Los Angeles-based founder of the advocacy social media agency, Get Social. “And there’s not too much more fighting that you’re going to be able to do without losing your own sanity.” After Trump was declared the winner over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris , many politically engaged Black women said they were so dismayed by the outcome that they were reassessing — but not completely abandoning — their enthusiasm for electoral politics and movement organizing. Black women often carry much of the work of getting out the vote in their communities. They had vigorously supported the historic candidacy of Harris, who would have been the first woman of Black and South Asian descent to win the presidency. Harris' loss spurred a wave of Black women across social media resolving to prioritize themselves, before giving so much to a country that over and over has shown its indifference to their concerns. AP VoteCast , a survey of more than 120,000 voters, found that 6 in 10 Black women said the future of democracy in the United States was the single most important factor for their vote this year, a higher share than for other demographic groups. But now, with Trump set to return to office in two months, some Black women are renewing calls to emphasize rest, focus on mental health and become more selective about what fight they lend their organizing power to. “America is going to have to save herself,” said LaTosha Brown, the co-founder of the national voting rights group Black Voters Matter. She compared Black women’s presence in social justice movements as “core strategists and core organizers” to the North Star, known as the most consistent and dependable star in the galaxy because of its seemingly fixed position in the sky. People can rely on Black women to lead change, Brown said, but the next four years will look different. “That’s not a herculean task that’s for us. We don’t want that title. ... I have no goals to be a martyr for a nation that cares nothing about me,” she said. AP VoteCast paints a clear picture of Black women's concerns. Black female voters were most likely to say that democracy was the single most important factor for their vote, compared to other motivators such as high prices or abortion. More than 7 in 10 Black female voters said they were “very concerned” that electing Trump would lead the nation toward authoritarianism, while only about 2 in 10 said this about Harris. About 9 in 10 Black female voters supported Harris in 2024, according to AP VoteCast, similar to the share that backed Democrat Joe Biden in 2020. Trump received support from more than half of white voters, who made up the vast majority of his coalition in both years. Like voters overall, Black women were most likely to say the economy and jobs were the most important issues facing the country, with about one-third saying that. But they were more likely than many other groups to say that abortion and racism were the top issues, and much less likely than other groups to say immigration was the top issue. Despite those concerns, which were well-voiced by Black women throughout the campaign, increased support from young men of color and white women helped expand Trump’s lead and secured his victory. Politically engaged Black women said they don’t plan to continue positioning themselves in the vertebrae of the “backbone” of America’s democracy. The growing movement prompting Black women to withdraw is a shift from history, where they are often present and at the forefront of political and social change. One of the earliest examples is the women’s suffrage movement that led to ratification in 1920 of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution , which gave women the right to vote. Black women, however, were prevented from voting for decades afterward because of Jim Crow-era literacy tests, poll taxes and laws that blocked the grandchildren of slaves from voting. Most Black women couldn’t vote until the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Black women were among the organizers and counted among the marchers brutalized on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Alabama, during the historic march in 1965 from Selma to Montgomery that preceded federal legislation. Decades later, Black women were prominent organizers of the Black Lives Matter movement in response to the deaths of Black Americans at the hands of police and vigilantes. In his 2024 campaign, Trump called for leveraging federal money to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs in government programs and discussions of race, gender or sexual orientation in schools. His rhetoric on immigration, including false claims that Black Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, were eating cats and dogs, drove support for his plan to deport millions of people . Tenita Taylor, a Black resident of Atlanta who supported Trump this year, said she was initially excited about Harris’ candidacy. But after thinking about how high her grocery bills have been, she feels that voting for Trump in hopes of finally getting lower prices was a form of self-prioritization. “People say, ‘Well, that’s selfish, it was gonna be better for the greater good,''' she said. “I’m a mother of five kids. ... The things that (Democrats) do either affect the rich or the poor.” Some of Trump’s plans affect people in Olivia Gordon’s immediate community, which is why she struggled to get behind the “Black women rest” wave. Gordon, a New York-based lawyer who supported the Party for Socialism and Liberation’s presidential nominee, Claudia de la Cruz, worries about who may be left behind if the 92% of Black women voters who backed Harris simply stopped advocating. “We’re talking millions of Black women here. If millions of Black women take a step back, it absolutely leaves holes, but for other Black women,” she said. “I think we sometimes are in the bubble of if it’s not in your immediate circle, maybe it doesn’t apply to you. And I truly implore people to understand that it does.” Nicole Lewis, an Alabama-based therapist who specializes in treating Black women’s stress, said she’s aware that Black women withdrawing from social impact movements could have a fallout. But she also hopes that it forces a reckoning for the nation to understand the consequences of not standing in solidarity with Black women. “It could impact things negatively because there isn’t that voice from the most empathetic group,” she said. “I also think it’s going to give other groups an opportunity to step up. ... My hope is that they do show up for themselves and everyone else.” Brown said a reckoning might be exactly what the country needs, but it’s a reckoning for everyone else. Black women, she said, did their job when they supported Harris in droves in hopes they could thwart the massive changes expected under Trump. “This ain’t our reckoning,” she said. “I don’t feel no guilt.” ____ AP polling editor Amelia Thomson DeVeaux and Associated Press writer Linley Sanders in Washington contributed to this report.Romania PM fends off far-right challenge in presidential first round

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