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A brand new community hub has opened for care experienced young people to gather, have fun and find wraparound support Sefton Council has launched a brand new community hub for care experienced young people which offers a place to gather, learn new skills and access wraparound support. The Hub in Waterloo opened it's doors earlier this month and the council hopes it will foster a community among care experienced people in the borough. Julieann is one young person who has just started to visit The Hub, they said: “It is a comforting place to be. It is very welcoming and so are all the staff. The Hub is a great place to go to disappear for a few hours and there is always someone to talk to here." Care experienced young people are some of the most vulnerable in society and studies show the act of moving into care can be hugely traumatic. Furthermore, care experienced people face increased challenges and even discrimination across education, employment, housing and are more likely to struggle with mental health issues. Sefton Council said it has huge ambitions for The Hub and wants it to be a ‘one stop shop’ in which young people can access essential services in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Furthermore, the local authority plans to foster a mutually supportive community where young people return for advice and guidance and/or access professional help in times of crisis. Service manager, Laura Doyle said: “The Hub offers vital, accessible, wraparound support that will have the potential to completely transform the lives of our care experienced young people in Sefton. "Our care experienced young people have so much to offer and everyone here at The Hub will support them every step of the way to unlock their potential and achieve their aspirations. We want to know they never have to feel alone and we will continue to support them to take their place in the world and achieve their ambitions. "Most importantly, it will be an inviting, safe and welcoming space where young people can connect and develop friendship and support networks." Young people at The Hub will be able to drop in to use services like the food pantry and work space and make appointments for support with housing, finances and employment coaches. They will also to participate in the organisation and curation of social and educational events and connect more widely with the local community. Logan is another person who only has positive things to say about what this provision means for them and other young people in Sefton, they said: “The Hub is a place where people can get help and feel safe. There are people here who can help you if you need advice or guidance in life. It is also a place for young people to socialise or quiet space to work in peace.” There were also heartfelt and emotional testimonials from two young people who wanted to remain anonymous, one said: “I feel like it’s the perfect place too wind down when everything feels too much.” The other added: “I wish I had a place like this when I was younger as it would have really helped me.” Dr Risthardh Hare is Sefton Council's Director of Children Services and he spoke about the development of the local authority's children's services since their 'inadequate' Ofsted inspection in 2022 and what The Hub represents in terms of its commitment to continual improvement. Dr Hare said: "I think it's extremely important that we evolve and one of the key lessons we've learned is children have to be at the centre of our service provision. It's been a journey where the whole of the council has had to learn and join up together to support children's services so that they could actually improve. "As 'corporate parents', we're actually responsible for this, and it's not just one or two people sitting on a committee, it's the whole of the council in different ways. So we're all responsible." To celebrate the opening of The Hub and to mark the local authority's ongoing commitment to the project - as well as children's services across the borough - people gathered for a tree planting ceremony earlier this week. Cllr Paulette Lappin was in attendance to help bed in the 'positivitree' in the back garden of The Hub, she said: "The whole place from the decoration to the facilities for the young people - it's beautiful and very thoughtfully done. "This place is absolutely integral to being able to provide really good services for young people. Children in care very often feel they don't belong so, this is a commitment from the council that says, 'you do belong', to us."
Rhode Island beats Bryant 35-21 to claim its first Coastal Athletic Association title
A new tool developed at Western University is working to analyze case law on hate crimes, helping to aid in the reporting and prosecution of these crimes. Hate crimes are when a criminal offense is committed against a person or property that is motivated at least in part by bias, prejudice or hatred. A variety of factors can be considered when a person is the target of a hate crime, including race, religion, sexual identity, and more. This tool helps compile more than 15 years of case law in which judges have considered a subsection of the Canadian Criminal Code which requires judges to consider harsher penalties for hate crimes. Fourteen factors are identified by the tool which serve as hate crime indicators. This can include anything from whether derogatory language was used, to whether the location targeted was known to be frequented by a persecuted group – such as a place of worship. The implementation of this tool could inform not only the legal process, but also the training of lawyers and police. “This case law points to the significant negative impact of hate crimes on individuals and entire communities,” said Sunil Gurmukh, law professor and law’s assistant dean. “Determining whether a crime is motivated by bias, prejudice or hate can be difficult for police and Crown prosecutors alike, so it’s important to have a legal resource to help them do that.” The tool was developed in partnership with the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF). Not only is the tool one that could serve the legal system, but its development has helped inform the next generation of lawyers through it’s association with Western. “It really struck me that it wasn’t one specific group being targeted in these cases. There were a wide range of people from all kinds of backgrounds experiencing hate,” said law student Mona Soliman. “Reading these cases was really difficult, but it was important to me to contribute to a tool that helps increase access to justice.” 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. 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New Western research hopes to help future lawyers decide. 'Cancer might have started this, but I am going to finish it': Nine-year-old cancer patient prepares to Illuminate Ronald McDonald House Paris Jewellers in Stratford robbed Plans for proposed fast food restaurant in north London get denied Thousands of dollars in tools stolen from Watford business Fires in Simcoe and Langton considered suspicious Council’s move to shorten committee meetings accused of silencing minority voices CTVNews.ca Top Stories Missing hiker found alive after 50 days in northern B.C. wilderness A missing hiker who spent 50 days alone in the frozen wilderness of northern British Columbia has been found alive. 'They alone are responsible': No deal yet in Canada Post strike The Canada Post strike is expected to continue as parties remain 'too far apart on critical issues' to reach a deal, according to Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon. Hyundai recalling hundreds of thousands of cars and SUVs in Canada, U.S. Hyundai is recalling hundreds of thousands of SUVs and small cars in the U.S. and Canada because the rearview camera image may not show up on the screens. Man arrested at LAX after allegedly checking suitcases filled with over 70 pounds of meth-caked clothing A California man was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport after he allegedly tried to check two suitcases containing more than 70 pounds of clothing caked in methamphetamine – including a cow pajama onesie – on a flight to Australia, federal prosecutors said Tuesday. Ontario to match federal GST holiday on some items The Ontario government says it will match the federal government’s GST holiday by removing provincial sales tax (PST) from items that are not currently covered by existing provincial rebates. Some Liberal MPs echo NDP call to expand $250 rebate, minister touts seniors benefits Some Liberal MPs say they think their government should consider expanding the eligibility for an upcoming government rebate to include seniors who are no longer working. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande 'Wicked' pay disparity rumour debunked Some have been saying Ariana Grande got paid more for 'Wicked' than her costar Cynthia Erivo, but the movie's studio is setting the record straight. W5 Investigates | Canada's least wanted man: A family's long and lonely fight to bring their son home from Syria Counterterrorism experts and humanitarian groups are urging countries to repatriate suspected ISIS members, as one family tells CTV W5 about their long and lonely fight to bring their son home from Syria. Montreal billionaire Robert Miller could have as many as 100 victims, lawyer says A Quebec judge is hearing arguments this week in a class-action lawsuit application against Montreal billionaire Robert Miller over allegations he paid minors for sex. Kitchener Pedestrian taken to hospital with minor injuries after driver crashes in Kitchener bus shelter A pedestrian has been taken to hospital with minor injuries after a bus shelter in Kitchener was destroyed during a crash. Fires in Simcoe and Langton considered suspicious Police are investigating two suspicious fires in Norfolk County. 'They alone are responsible': No deal yet in Canada Post strike The Canada Post strike is expected to continue as parties remain 'too far apart on critical issues' to reach a deal, according to Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon. Barrie One child injured after school bus crashes into ditch More than a dozen students were on a school bus when it slid into a ditch early Wednesday morning. Armed home invasion under investigation, 3 suspects at large South Simcoe police are investigating a report of an armed home invasion in Bradford West Gwillimbury involving three suspects. Loaded semi-automatic gun, drugs found in parked vehicle in Barrie, Brampton man arrested Barrie police officers say concern for a passenger in a parked vehicle turned into an arrest, drug charges and the seizure of a fully loaded semi-automatic pistol. Windsor Active investigation cleared on Victoria Avenue Windsor police have left the scene after an active investigation near the downtown area. '99 red balloons? Try hundreds': Parks Canada draws attention to helium balloon litter concerns In posts on social media, Parks Canada is calling on people to "balloon responsibly" while revealing staff at Point Pelee National Park find hundreds of helium balloons along the Lake Erie shoreline each year. Warning: phone scammers posing as Windsor police If you get a call that looks like it's from Windsor police, it might not be. Northern Ontario HART Hub funding sparks fierce debate at Timmins city council Additions treatment was front and centre in Timmins on Tuesday night as city councillors had plenty of questions about a planned Homelessness and Addictions Recovery Treatment (HART) Hub at the former Ramada Inn on Riverside Drive. 'They alone are responsible': No deal yet in Canada Post strike The Canada Post strike is expected to continue as parties remain 'too far apart on critical issues' to reach a deal, according to Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon. Magic mushroom store in Sudbury, Ont., closes after visit by police A store at the corner of Elm and Durham streets in Sudbury called Shroomyz that sold magic mushrooms has closed. Sault Ste. Marie Bad weather closes Hwy. 17 west of the Sault Highway 17 from Batchawana Bay to Wawa is closed Wednesday due to poor weather conditions Financial woes have Sault museum struggling to survive Budget talk in Sault Ste. Marie has included the worsening financial state of the local museum, with board officials saying they could only have a few years remaining. Police seize $1M in drugs in northwestern Ont. bust Suspects from Alberta and B.C. are in custody after Ontario Provincial Police made a massive drug bust at a rental unit near Kenora, Ont. Ottawa Ottawa school board trustees vote to sanction Donna Blackburn for antisemitic remark Trustees at Ottawa's largest school board have voted to censure a fellow trustee for an antisemitic comment that was made during the debate over attending the Capital Pride Parade. Phoenix Pay class-action settled for casual, non-unionized federal public servants A settlement in a class-action lawsuit has been reached for non-unionized and casual federal public servants affected by payroll issues connected with the embattled Phoenix pay system. Ontario to match federal GST holiday on some items The Ontario government says it will match the federal government’s GST holiday by removing provincial sales tax (PST) from items that are not currently covered by existing provincial rebates. Toronto Ontario to match federal GST holiday on some items The Ontario government says it will match the federal government’s GST holiday by removing provincial sales tax (PST) from items that are not currently covered by existing provincial rebates. Video shows man pointing gun at vehicles on Highway 401 Police continue to look for a man captured in a dashcam footage pointing a gun at passing vehicles on Highway 401. Baby boy allegedly killed by Toronto mother identified An infant who police say was killed by their mother in midtown Toronto last week has been identified by police. Montreal Montreal billionaire Robert Miller could have as many as 100 victims, lawyer says A Quebec judge is hearing arguments this week in a class-action lawsuit application against Montreal billionaire Robert Miller over allegations he paid minors for sex. Quebec premier says he's 'open' to possibility of Quebec constitution by 2026 A committee appointed by the Quebec government has recommended the province adopt its own constitution and take other steps to boost its autonomy. Quebec police speak to drivers about violence against women As part of the 12 days of action to end violence against women, the Quebec provincial police service (SQ) is raising awareness on intimate partner violence by talking to drivers on the province's roads. Atlantic First significant snow of the season for parts of the Maritimes Thursday, Friday A low-pressure system moving up the eastern seaboard of the United States is forecasted to bring a mixture of snow and rain into the Maritimes Thursday night into Friday. N.S. Liberal Leader Zach Churchill loses seat to PC candidate by just 14 votes It appears Nova Scotia Liberal Leader Zach Churchill has lost his seat to Progressive Conservative candidate Nick Hilton – by just 14 votes. N.B. RCMP investigating double homicide after bodies found inside burning vehicle in Chipman Police in New Brunswick are investigating the homicides of two people found inside a burning vehicle in Chipman. Winnipeg Two men randomly stabbed at Polo Park, one person arrested Two men were randomly stabbed at CF Polo Park Mall Tuesday and police have one person in custody. More charges laid against pair involved in animal cruelty investigation: Winnipeg police Warning: This story contains disturbing details. Discretion is advised. Winnipeg police have laid additional charges against two Winnipeggers charged with animal cruelty after videos of animals being tortured and killed were uploaded to the dark web. Manitoba adding 800 hip and knee surgeries in Selkirk The Manitoba government is taking steps to lower healthcare wait times by adding 800 hip and knee surgeries at the Selkirk Regional Health Centre. Calgary 'They alone are responsible': No deal yet in Canada Post strike The Canada Post strike is expected to continue as parties remain 'too far apart on critical issues' to reach a deal, according to Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon. $1M Lotto Max winning ticket purchased in Alberta A pair of Albertans won big in Tuesday night’s Lotto Max draw. According to the Western Canada Lottery Corporation, a $1 million winning ticket was purchased somewhere in the province outside of Calgary and Edmonton. 'Righting a historical wrong': Bearspaw Nation files class action suit against feds over $5-a-year Treaty 7 payment A First Nation west of Calgary has filed a class action lawsuit against Ottawa, trying to right what it calls an “historical wrong.” Edmonton Welfare check leads police to finding $750K in drugs, man's arrest A man faces drug and weapon charges after $750,000 worth of drugs were seized from an Edmonton home. City of Edmonton to lift Phase 1 parking ban on Thursday The City of Edmonton will lift the Phase 1 parking ban on arterial and industrial district roads on Thursday morning. Alberta's pledge to take over ownership of emissions data 'irresponsible': Guilbeault Federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault says Alberta's plan to make greenhouse gas emissions data the property of the provincial government could lead to oil and gas companies breaking federal laws. Regina Sask. developing program it says will give better understanding of student performance in 'core subject areas' The province says work is underway to develop a program that will help better understand Saskatchewan student performance in 'core subject areas' at school. Man given 5 year sentence for fatal 2021 booze fueled fight in Regina home A now 23-year-old man has pleaded guilty to manslaughter and will serve a total of five years behind bars for the 2021 death of a 43-year-old man in Regina after an alcohol fueled fight in the basement of a home. Miss Rodeo Agribition returns to crown new winner Three ladies are competing to take home the title of Miss Rodeo Agribition at the Canadian Western Agribition this year. Saskatoon 'The roads are a mess': Saskatoon residents voice concerns over city road clearing As crews make their way through city streets in the aftermath of last weekend’s storm, some Saskatoon residents say their efforts aren’t enough. Sask. developing program it says will give better understanding of student performance in 'core subject areas' The province says work is underway to develop a program that will help better understand Saskatchewan student performance in 'core subject areas' at school. 'I didn’t give up': Five-day search for missing dog ends with tears of joy A Saskatoon woman and her dog, Bella, were reunited after five days of searching, with the help of Facebook and the kindness of strangers. Vancouver Missing hiker found alive after 50 days in northern B.C. wilderness A missing hiker who spent 50 days alone in the frozen wilderness of northern British Columbia has been found alive. Condo door is common property, owner not responsible for replacing glue-filled lock, B.C. tribunal rules A North Vancouver condo building has lost its bid to force the owner of one unit to pay for a replacement lock after a bizarre incident in which glue was "injected" into the locking mechanism. Mounties say 2 men arrested after another fentanyl 'super lab' found in B.C. Mounties say two men were arrested after police uncovered the latest drug-manufacturing "super lab" in British Columbia. Vancouver Island Missing hiker found alive after 50 days in northern B.C. wilderness A missing hiker who spent 50 days alone in the frozen wilderness of northern British Columbia has been found alive. Mounties say 2 men arrested after another fentanyl 'super lab' found in B.C. Mounties say two men were arrested after police uncovered the latest drug-manufacturing "super lab" in British Columbia. Mounties investigating after victim struck, killed at Kamloops, B.C., gas station Mounties are investigating after a person was struck and killed early Wednesday morning in the parking lot of a gas station in Kamloops, B.C. Stay ConnectedI’M A Celebrity’s Dean McCullough is a new favourite to walk after a body language expert declared he could be “susceptible”. Dean has been repeatedly chosen for the gruelling Bushtucker Trials, despite him failing to get more than four stars in any of them. He's also quit several of the trials midway through after panicking, earning cheeky swipes from hosts Ant and Dec. Friday night’s show saw him finally earn eight stars when he was paired up with McFly’s Danny Jones, but even then it was noted he only bagged two himself, and lost them two after he freaked out over creepy crawlies. Nicole Greenfield-Smith, in collaboration with Mecca Games , has since teased that his inability to get over his fears and come through for the camp meals could be his downfall, prompting him to leave early. “I thought [Wednesday's] trial was interesting and if Dean flunks many more trials, it could leave him susceptible to walking,” she said. READ MORE I'M A CELEB Branding his attempt to do a trial with GK Barry “a disastrous combo”, she added: “We all have 'mirror neurons' which enable us to connect and empathise with others. This means we are highly sensitive to the mood, tone of voice and body language of those around us. "So, if we hear someone screaming and panicking it intensifies our own fear, which is exactly what happened with the hapless duo and why they left the trial with zero stars." "The challenge moving forward is that hunger, the rain, and tiredness will serve to escalate the emotional responses of the campmates and reduce their tolerance significantly,” she added. “If Dean continues to be selected for trials and lets his fear dominate, it's likely that some of the other campmates will lose patience with him for not delivering the goods. Most read in TV "Our brains are wired for social connection and cooperation. Disappointing others can trigger feelings of rejection, shame, or guilt, which may well tip Dean over the edge." On Friday's show, after his trial with Danny, Dean was offered some consolation when he was picked by Maura Higgins and Richard Coles to join them in the jungle junkyard. Unbeknownst to the main camp, the Jungle Junkyard is actually a luxury camp including hot water, food and beds – allowing him to spend the night in the lap of luxury. But a visit from Coleen Rooney soon sparked trouble, with her rumbling the secret within minutes as she figured out something didn't quite add up. Tonight, they get the chance to confront them on the subterfuge, but will they own up? I'm A Celebrity continues nightly at 9pm on ITV1.Luigi Mangione pleads not guilty to murder of health insurance CEO
Fresh rallies in Georgia after PM said 'won battle' with pro-EU protesters
President-elect Donald Trump is naming the former U.S. Border Patrol chief pushed out by the Biden administration to lead the Customs and Border Protection, which monitors hundreds of ways to enter the country. Trump's CBP nominee Rodney Scott is a 29-year border-enforcement veteran who clashed with President Joe Biden's team on how best to tackle illegal immigration and other border-related matters. He was asked to leave his Border Patrol position within the first six months of Biden taking office in 2021. Scott's return signals how seriously Trump is taking his ambitious immigration and border security agenda, which includes launching a mass deportation effort within his first 100 days. As the border patrol chief during Trump's first tenure as president, Scott helped implement the Remain in Mexico Policy , Title 42 and Safe Third Country agreements. The president-elect said he was "thrilled" to bring Scott back to public service. Customs and Border Protection has more than 60,000 federal employees, which makes it one of the largest law enforcement agencies in the country. It carries the responsibility of inspecting roughly 300 ports of entry, such as airports, seaports and land borders. That will be a significant role in Trump's returning administration should he keep his pledge to impose strict tariffs on foreign countries such as Canada, Mexico and China. Trump has unveiled a host of other appointments as part of his immigration crackdown featuring well-known hardliners such as Caleb Vitello, an assistant director for firearms and tactical programs as acting director of Immigrations and Customs Enforcement; Tony Salisbury as deputy homeland security adviser; and Brandon Judd, president of the National Border Patrol Council, to be ambassador to Chile. Heather Gonzalez, vice president of American Families United Vice President, a liberal-leaning immigration reform group , said Friday the nominations, "signal a dangerous commitment to continuing and even escalating" policies that could lead to family separation. "We reject any attempt to further criminalize immigrants, vilify them and break up families for political gain," Gonzalez said. "The nominees' track records suggest they will not work to protect the values of family unity and justice that are foundational to our nation. Instead, their leadership will only deepen the wounds inflicted on communities already living in fear and uncertainty." But South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, who has been plucked to be Trump's head of the Department of Homeland Security, praised Scott and Vitello's selection in a social media post Friday, welcoming both to the team. "Together, we will Make America Safe Again," Noem said in a post on Truth Social. Contributing: Josh MeyerHUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Alabama A&M University football player Medrick Burnett Jr. is still on life support following an injury during a game against Alabama State in October, according to Alabama A&M University Sports Information Director Brian Howard. This updates an earlier announcement from the university that Burnett had died a month after the injury. Howard said the university got news last night from Burnett's father, who is on the West Coast where the family is from, that his son had died. Burnett's mother, who is with him, said that he is still alive. The announcement from the university Wednesday that originally stated he had died has since been removed from their website . The redshirt freshman from Lakewood, California, joined Alabama A&M's team over the summer after starting his college career at Grambling State. He appeared in seven games for Alabama A&M this season, recording three tackles during a game at Austin Peay.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Saturday apologised for his attempt to impose martial law this week and bowed during a televised speech to the nation, only hours head of a planned impeachment vote. Yoon said he would not seek to avoid legal and political responsibility for his decision, which he said was born of desperation. The speech was the embattled leader's first public appearance since he rescinded the martial law order early on Wednesday, just six hours after it was declared and after parliament defied military and police cordons to vote against the decree. "I am very sorry and would like to sincerely apologise to the people who were shocked," Yoon said. "I leave it up to my party to take steps to stabilise the political situation in future, including the issue of my term in office," he said. South Korea's ruling party leader Han Dong-hoon said after Yoon's address that the president was no longer in a position to carry out public duty and his resignation was now unavoidable. On Friday Han said Yoon was a danger to the country and needed to be removed from power, increasing the pressure on Yoon to quit even though his People Power Party (PPP) members later reaffirmed a formal opposition to his impeachment. Lawmakers will vote on the main opposition Democratic Party's motion to impeach Yoon later on Saturday. Yoon shocked the nation late on Tuesday when he gave the military sweeping emergency powers in order to root out what he called "anti-state forces" and overcome obstructionist political opponents. Some PPP members urged Yoon to resign before the vote, saying they did not want a repeat of the 2016 impeachment of then-President Park Geun-hye, who left office following months of candlelit protests over an influence-peddling scandal. Her downfall triggered the implosion of the party and a victory by liberals in presidential and general elections. In scenes reminiscent of those protests, thousands of demonstrators holding candles assembled outside parliament on Friday night demanding Yoon's impeachment. More demonstrations are expected on Saturday ahead of the vote. Prosecutors, the police and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials have all launched probes into Yoon and senior officials involved in the martial law decree, seeking to pursue charges of insurrection and abuse of power, among others. (This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)New Delhi, Nov 23: BJP president J P Nadda on Saturday hailed his party’s victory in Maharashtra assembly polls and byelections in various states as “historic” and said people have put their seal on the Prime Minister’s vision for the country’s development, rejecting the opposition’s politics of division and appeasement. Addressing an event organised at the BJP headquarters after the results of the elections, Nadda accepted people’s mandate in Jharkhand and asserted that his party will play the role of “constructive opposition” in the state and fight against infiltration from Bangladesh “till the last breath”. “It’s a historic day,” he said. In the latest round of elections, the people of Maharashtra and other states have put their stamp on Modi’s agenda of development and his resolve to serve the nation, he said. “People have once again endorsed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and ‘vikasvaad’, and those who were dividing the country on the lines of caste misleading people have fallen flat on their face in these elections,” he said. “Results of these elections and the one held in Haryana recently have given a reply to those in INDI alliance who were living in the illusion that they will gain to power by pursuing appeasement politics and dividing people on the lines of caste and religion,” he added. Nadda also took on Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and said that the BJP-led NDA had won in the 2019 Maharashtra assembly polls but Thackeray “betrayed and insulted” the people’s mandate succumbing to his “greed for power”. “The BJP had won the 2019 elections as well but Uddhav Thackeray betrayed us. Maharashtra has rejected him in these elections “Today people have rejected him and given a message that they are with Modi, Mahayuti, BJP, (Eknath Shinde’s) Shiv Sena and NCP (of Ajit Pawar),” he added. The poll results also reflect the “mood of the nation”, he added.
Nicaragua's President Daniel Ortega and his wife are set to assume absolute power after loyalist lawmakers Friday approved a constitutional amendment elevating her to the position of "co-president" and boosting the pair's joint control over the state. Under sanctions for human rights abuses, Ortega himself had proposed the change, which also increases the Central American country's presidential term from five to six years. Nicaragua's National Assembly is under control of Ortega's ruling FSLN party, and parliament chief Gustavo Porras said Friday the measure was approved "unanimously." It is all but guaranteed to pass a second reading in January. Ortega, 79, has engaged in increasingly authoritarian practices, tightening control of all sectors of the state with the aid of his powerful wife, 73-year-old Vice President Rosario Murillo in what critics describe as a nepotistic dictatorship. The ex-guerrilla had first served as president from 1985 to 1990, returning to power in 2007. Nicaragua has jailed hundreds of opponents, real and perceived, since then. Ortega's government has targeted critics, shutting down more than 5,000 NGOs since 2018 mass protests in which the United Nations estimates more than 300 people died. Thousands of Nicaraguans have fled into exile, and the regime is under US and EU sanctions. Most independent and opposition media now operate from abroad. The constitutional amendment stipulates that "traitors to the homeland" can be stripped of their citizenship, as the Ortega government has already done with hundreds of politicians, journalists, intellectuals and activists, among others perceived as critical. Ortega and Murillo accuse the Church, journalists and NGOs of having supported an attempted coup d'etat, as they describe the 2018 protests. The change also allows for stricter control over the media and the Church, so they are not subject to "foreign interests." And it gives the co-presidents the power to coordinate all "legislative, judicial, electoral, control and supervisory bodies, regional and municipal" -- formerly independent under the constitution. Manuel Orozco, a Nicaraguan analyst for the Inter-American Dialogue, told AFP the reform "guarantees the presidential succession" of Murillo and the pair's son, Laureano Ortega. The Geneva-based UN human rights office (OHCHR) in its annual report on Nicaragua warned in September of a "serious" deterioration in human rights under Ortega. The report cited violations such as arbitrary arrests of opponents, torture, ill-treatment in detention, increased violence against Indigenous people and attacks on religious freedom. The revised constitution will define Nicaragua as a "revolutionary" and socialist state and include the red-and-black flag of the FSLN -- a guerrilla group-turned political party that overthrew a US-backed dictator in 1979 -- among its national symbols. Constitutional law expert Azahalea Solis said this change excludes other political ideologies, while Salvador Marenco, a human rights lawyer exiled in Costa Rica, said it will end political pluralism and the doctrine of separation of powers. "Everything in the reform is what has actually been happening in Nicaragua: a de facto dictatorship," Dora Maria Tellez, a former comrade in arms of Ortega turned critic, told AFP from exile in the United States. When it was proposed by Ortega earlier this week, Organization of American States secretary general Luis Almagro described the amendment as "an aberrant form of institutionalizing the marital dictatorship." He also labeled the initiative an "aggression against the democratic rule of law." mis-mlr/dw
By LISA MASCARO and ALANNA DURKIN RICHER WASHINGTON (AP) — The House Ethics Committee’s long-awaited report on Matt Gaetz documents a trove of salacious allegations , including sex with an underage girl, that tanked the Florida Republican’s bid to lead the Justice Department . Related Articles 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 National Politics | Many Americans have come to rely on Chinese-made drones. Now lawmakers want to ban them Citing text messages, travel receipts, online payments and testimony, the bipartisan committee paints a picture of a lifestyle in which Gaetz and others connected with younger women for drug-fueled parties, events or trips, with the expectation the women would be paid for their participation. The former congressman, who filed a last-minute lawsuit to try to block the report’s release on Monday, slammed the committee’s findings. Gaetz has denied any wrongdoing and has insisted he never had sex with a minor. And a Justice Department investigation into the allegations ended without any criminal charges filed against him. “Giving funds to someone you are dating — that they didn’t ask for — and that isn’t ‘charged’ for sex is now prostitution?!?” Gaetz wrote in one post on Monday. “There is a reason they did this to me in a Christmas Eve-Eve report and not in a courtroom of any kind where I could present evidence and challenge witnesses.” Here’s a look at some of the committee’s key findings: The committee found that between 2017 and 2020, Gaetz paid tens of thousands of dollars to women “likely in connection with sexual activity and/or drug use.” He paid the women using through online services such as PayPal, Venmo, and CashApp and with cash or check, the committee said. The committee said it found evidence that Gaetz understood the “transactional nature” of his relationships with the women. The report points to one text exchange in which Gaetz balked at a woman’s request that he send her money, “claiming she only gave him a ‘drive by.’” Women interviewed by the committee said there was a “general expectation of sex,” the report said. One woman who received more than $5,000 from Gaetz between 2018 and 2019 said that “99 percent of the time” that when she hung out with Gaetz “there was sex involved.” However, Gaetz was in a long-term relationship with one of the women he paid, so “some of the payments may have been of a legitimate nature,” the committee said. Text messages obtained by the committee also show that Gaetz would ask the women to bring drugs to their “rendezvous,” the report said. While most of his encounters with the women were in Florida, the committee said Gaetz also traveled “on several occasions” with women whom he paid for sex. The report includes text message exchanges in which Gaetz appears to be inviting various women to events, getaways or parties, and arranging airplane travel and lodging. Gaetz associate Joel Greenberg, who pleaded guilty to sex trafficking charges in 2021, initially connected with women through an online service. In one text with a 20-year-old woman, Greenberg suggested if she has a friend, the four of them could meet up. The woman responded that she usually does “$400 per meet.” Greenberg replied: “He understands the deal,” along with a smiley face emoji. Greenberg asks if they are old enough to drink alcohol, and sent the woman a picture of Gaetz. The woman responded that her friend found him “really cute.” “Well, he’s down here for only for the day, we work hard and play hard,” Greenberg replied. The report details a party in July 2017 in which Gaetz is accused of having sex with “multiple women, including the 17-year-old, for which they were paid.” The committee pointed to “credible testimony” from the now-woman herself as well as “multiple individuals” who corroborated the allegation. The then-17-year-old — who had just completed her junior year in high school — told the committee that Gaetz paid her $400 in cash that night, “which she understood to be payment for sex,” according to the report. The woman acknowledged that she had taken ecstasy the night of the party, but told the committee that she was “certain” of her sexual encounters with the then-congressman. There’s no evidence that Gaetz knew she was a minor when he had sex with her, the committee said. The woman told the committee she didn’t tell Gaetz she was under 18 at the time and that he didn’t how old she was. Rather, the committee said Gaetz learned she was a minor more than a month after the party. But he stayed in touch with her after that and met up with her for “commercial sex” again less than six months after she turned 18, according to the committee. In sum, the committee said it authorized 29 subpoenas for documents and testimony, reviewed nearly 14,000 documents and contacted more than two dozen witnesses. But when the committee subpoenaed Gaetz for his testimony, he failed to comply. “Gaetz pointed to evidence that would ‘exonerate’ him yet failed to produce any such materials,” the committee said. Gaetz “continuously sought to deflect, deter, or mislead the Committee in order to prevent his actions from being exposed.” The report details a months-long process that dragged into a year as it sought information from Gaetz that he decried as “nosey” and a “weaponization” of government against him. In one notable exchange, investigators were seeking information about the expenses for a 2018 get-away with multiple women to the Bahamas. Gaetz ultimately offered up his plane ticket receipt “to” the destination, but declined to share his return “from” the Bahamas. The report said his return on a private plane and other expenses paid by an associate were in violation of House gift rules. In another Gaetz told the committee he would “welcome” the opportunity to respond to written questions. Yet, after it sent a list of 16 questions, Gaetz said publicly he would “no longer” voluntarily cooperate. He called the investigation “frivolous,” adding: “Every investigation into me ends the same way: my exoneration.” The report said that while Gaetz’s obstruction of the investigation does not rise to a criminal violation it is inconsistent with the requirement that all members of Congress “act in a manner that reflects creditably upon the House.” The committee began its review of Gaetz in April 2021 and deferred its work in response to a Justice Department request. It renewed its work shortly after Gaetz announced that the Justice Department had ended a sex trafficking investigation without filing any charges against him. The committee sought records from the Justice Department about the probe, but the agency refused, saying it doesn’t disclose information about investigations that don’t result in charges. The committee then subpoenaed the Justice Department, but after a back-and-forth between officials and the committee, the department handed over “publicly reported information about the testimony of a deceased individual,” according to the report. “To date, DOJ has provided no meaningful evidence or information to the Committee or cited any lawful basis for its responses,” the committee said. Many of the women who the committee spoke to had already given statements to the Justice Department and didn’t want to “relive their experience,” the committee said. “They were particularly concerned with providing additional testimony about a sitting congressman in light of DOJ’s lack of action on their prior testimony,” the report said. The Justice Department, however, never handed over the women’s statements. The agency’s lack of cooperation — along with its request that the committee pause its investigation — significantly delayed the committee’s probe, lawmakers said.A number of modifications have been announced by the Social Security Administration that will take effect next year in order to address inflation and the financial security of over 70 million recipients. Retirees, recipients of disability and Veterans Affairs benefits , and other people who depend on Social Security benefits will all be impacted by the changes. The Cost-of-Living-Adjustment (COLA), which is intended to keep Social Security benefits rising in accordance with inflation, is one of the major adjustments that is probably going to have the biggest effects. The rise, which is expected to be roughly 2.5 percent and is based on this year's economic data, is meant to maintain financial stability . Next year will see the implementation of several significant reforms to the Social Security system . Among these is the shift in the age at which Americans can begin receiving Social Security benefits. Although Americans can begin receiving reduced benefits at age 62, the current range for full retirement is between 66 and 67 years, depending on the year of birth. Map shows best and worst-run cities in the US for better income, less crime, and better schools Fed cuts interest rates by half point for first time in 4 years as inflation cools At some point in the future, full retirement might be advanced to around 68, and perhaps even higher. The goal of the reform is to maintain the system's long-term sustainability and adjust it to reflect Americans' longer life expectancies. Additionally, the taxable income threshold will rise from $160,200 this year to $176,100 in 2025. As a result, more money will enter the system and a wider range of salaries will be subject to the taxes that pay for Social Security. Social Security benefits will be adjusted for those who have already retired, with the Cost-of-Living-Adjustment boost intended to preserve their purchasing power in the face of growing living expenses. Support for people with impairments will increase, especially those who are unable to work and may have little financial resources. In order to adjust to the changes, beneficiaries should stay informed and current. They can also benefit by planning ahead and assessing how the modifications will likely affect their monthly income and making appropriate plans. Speaking with a financial counselor might also help beneficiaries explore strategies to optimize their benefits. Click here to follow the Mirror US on Google News to stay up to date with all the latest news, sports and entertainment stories Taxes can be a major worry in retirement because it's difficult to keep as much of your money as possible, regardless of how well you saved and invested throughout your working years. This is arranging your income, withdrawals, and resources to pay the IRS as little as possible. DAILY NEWSLETTER: Sign up here to get the latest news and updates from the Mirror US straight to your inbox with our FREE newsletter. Your other taxable income from the year, such as pension payments, withdrawals from taxable retirement funds, interest payments, profits from gambling, or any other taxable source, will determine if and how much your benefits are taxed. If you exceed the fixed income restrictions, your benefits are partially taxable. To calculate your adjusted gross income, add half of your yearly Social Security benefits and any nontaxable interest you receive.The story of the film reflects the lives of Punjabis residing in Europe and is based on a message of social awareness. Prominent company Distribution Club has arranged the release of this global Punjabi film “Hey Siri Ve Siri”, which is filled with laughter, hit music and star-studded performances, to provide quality entertainment to the audience. The film will be released today in cinemas across Lahore, Islamabad and throughout Punjab. Punjab Censor Board has issued clearance certificate for public screening and it will be showcased in all cinemas across Punjab, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad and Multan. The unique title of the film portrays the challenges faced by Punjabi family living in Europe. The film emphasizes the message of love between parents and children and the importance of preserving and reviving family values. It also highlights humorous encounters between European citizens and Punjabi immigrants. Arya Babar, the son of Raj Babar have played the lead role in the film, while other notable actors include Shweta Inder kumar, Hardip Gill, Anita Devgan, Adarsh Singh Cheema and others.
NoneThe tech world is abuzz with rumors of Apple’s upcoming “iPhone Slim,” a device purported to be thinner than any iPhone before it. But how will Apple achieve this feat of engineering without sacrificing battery life or functionality? The answer may lie in an unlikely place: a $200 phone from Honor, the Honor X8b. This budget-friendly device boasts an incredibly slim profile, packing a large screen and battery into a remarkably thin and lightweight body. Could this be the blueprint for Apple’s radical redesign? For years, Apple has been pushing the boundaries of smartphone design , striving for thinner and lighter devices. The rumored “iPhone Slim” represents the culmination of this pursuit, a phone so thin it seems to defy physics. However, creating such a device presents significant challenges. Batteries, processors, and other components require space, and shrinking that space can lead to compromises in performance and battery life. This is where the Honor X8b comes in. This unassuming phone demonstrates that it is possible to create a thin and lightweight device without sacrificing key features. By examining the X8b’s design and technology, we can gain insights into how Apple might approach the “iPhone Slim” and the potential benefits and drawbacks of this radical new design. The Honor X8b: A Thin Phone That Doesn’t Compromise The Honor X8b is a mid-range phone that punches above its weight. It features a 6.7-inch display, a 108MP main camera, and a 4,500mAh battery, all packed into a body that is just 6.8mm thin. To put that into perspective, the iPhone 14 Pro is 7.85mm thick. The X8b achieves this slimness through clever engineering and design choices, such as using a high-density battery and optimizing the internal layout of components. What the Honor X8b Tells Us About the “iPhone Slim” The Honor X8b provides a glimpse into the potential strategies Apple might employ for the “iPhone Slim.” Here are some key takeaways: The Potential Benefits of an “iPhone Slim” The Potential Drawbacks of an “iPhone Slim” My Thoughts on the “iPhone Slim” As a tech enthusiast, I’m both excited and apprehensive about the “iPhone Slim.” While the prospect of a thinner and lighter iPhone is appealing, I’m concerned about the potential compromises. Battery life is crucial for me, and I wouldn’t want to sacrifice it for a slimmer design. Durability is also a concern, as I’ve seen firsthand how easily phones can get damaged. However, I also believe that Apple is capable of overcoming these challenges. They have a history of pushing the boundaries of technology and design, and I’m confident they can create an “iPhone Slim” that is both beautiful and functional. The Honor X8b offers a tantalizing glimpse into the future of smartphone design . It demonstrates that it is possible to create a thin and lightweight phone without sacrificing key features. Whether Apple can achieve the same feat with the “iPhone Slim” remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: the “iPhone Slim” has the potential to be either Apple’s best or worst idea ever. Only time will tell which it will be.Selden scores 29, Gardner-Webb takes down Bethune-Cookman 79-64
Pakistan whitewash South Africa, wins ODI series 3-0MINNEAPOLIS, Nov. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rally House, the fastest growing officially licensed sports apparel and merchandise retailer in the nation, announces they have opened their doors to the newest Rally House location in the Twin Cities area with Rally House Maple Grove. Rally House entered the Minnesota market this year with their first location of Rally House Tamarack Village in Woodbury. Now, the company proudly operates five storefront locations throughout the state. Find Rally House in the Maple Grove Crossing shopping mall, between Five Below and Old Navy. Rally House Maple Grove brings high-quality licensed sports gear to the city and surrounding areas just in time for the holiday shopping rush. The company is known for their outrageous product selection featuring well-known brands and exclusive styles. Fans, visitors, and residents of Maple Grove will enjoy shopping local teams including the Vikings, Wild, Timberwolves, United FC, Lynx, and Minnesota Golden Gophers, among others. Shoppers can expect to find top-tier brands such as Tommy Bahama, Cutter & Buck, Starter, Nike, New Era, WEAR by Erin Andrews, and many more. "You won't find many retailers that are opening new storefront locations the day before Thanksgiving,” says VP of Marketing Strategy, Aaron Johnson. "But Rally House isn't like other retailers. There was a void in the area for a premier sports merchandise location, and we wanted to make sure we filled that void just in time for the holidays,” added Johnson. Rally House Maple Grove will not only be the go-to location to shop officially licensed team gear, but the company also provides a great selection of locally inspired Minnesota merchandise. This merchandise includes apparel featuring beloved area landmarks and destinations, home décor to show off your love of Minnesota, and even locally sourced food, sauces, and snacks that are staples in the state. No matter who you are shopping for this holiday season, there's something for everyone on your list at Rally House Maple Grove. The staff at Rally House Maple Grove is eager to assist customers and the company looks forward to further expanding their presence in the state of Minnesota. Customers are invited to visit Rally House Maple Grove store page and follow the company on Instagram ( @rally_house ) and Facebook ( @RallyHouse ) for updates and current store information. About Rally House Rally House and Sampler Stores Inc. is a family-owned specialty boutique that offers a large selection of apparel, hats, gifts and home décor representing local NCAA, NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, and MLS teams in addition to locally inspired apparel, gifts and food. Proudly based in Lenexa, Kansas, Rally House operates 275+ locations across 23 states. CONTACT: Aaron Johnson, VP of Marketing Strategy [email protected] A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/86d7d521-81b0-4c50-94d6-b2db11953187Stock market today: Wall Street rises at the start of a holiday-shortened week
QB Nate Yarnell reveals transfer plans after up-and-down Pitt careerSusy Díaz revealed that her ‘father’ before dying confessed to her that he was not her biological fatherNIFT announces admission schedule for the coming academic year starting from July 2025
I’m a fashion stylist and I can NEVER shop at TK Maxx after spotting a major problem – you won’t un-see it either