lod777 DiVincenzo scores 26 to lead Timberwolves past Spurs 112-110 despite 34 points from WembanyamaNone

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December is the most wonderful time of the year for most people, but for political journeyman Martin Lukato, this month signifies his personal fiefdom.It was during December 1960 t ... If you are an active subscriber and the article is not showing, please log out and back in. Free access to articles from 12:00.MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Donte DiVincenzo scored 26 points as the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the San Antonio Spurs 112-110 on Sunday night. Rudy Gobert had 17 points and 15 rebounds for the Timberwolves, won won their third straight. Julius Randle had 16 points, while Jaden McDaniels added 12 points and 10 boards for Minnesota. Anthony Edwards, who earlier in the day was fined $100,000 for continued use of profanity in postgame media comments, was held to 14 points, 11 below his season average. After DiVincenzo made one of two free throws with 12.1 seconds left, the Spurs had one more possession down 112-110. San Antonio found a wide-open Jeremy Sochan for 3, but he came up short. Wembanyama led San Antonio with 34 points and eight rebounds. Harrison Barnes had 24 points, Devin Vassell had 22 and Chris Paul dished out 14 assists. Spurs: Trailing by 13 early in the third quarter, Wembanyama keyed a 16-4 run by showcasing his diverse offensive skills. He scored in the low post, hit a 3, made a pair of free throws and drained two midrange jumpers. Timberwolves: Minnesota survived a brutal shooting night from 3-point range, making just 11 of 44 attempts from beyond the arc. DiVincenzo was 5 for 10, but Edwards and Randle combined to go 1 for 16. With 4:44 to play and the game tied at 101, Randle made a driving layup against Wembanyama that was initially whistled for an offensive foul. Timberwolves coach Chris Finch challenged the call, and the basket was allowed to stand. Minnesota didn't trail the rest of the way. In the first quarter, the Timberwolves made just 1 of 11 3-point attempts but went 9 for 9 inside the arc. The Spurs host the Clippers, and the Timberwolves visit Oklahoma City on Tuesday. AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba

BOSTON — Boston will have four vending machines and eight indoor kiosks distributing life-saving Narcan and other harm reduction supplies in another step toward preventing overdose deaths, Mayor Michelle Wu and the Boston Public Health Commission announced. “Unfortunately, many people living with substance use disorder don’t use harm reduction tools, like naloxone and clean syringes, due to stigma, lack of access or unawareness,” said Public Health Commissioner Bisola Ojikutu. “These vending machines and kiosks are a low-cost, compassionate way to destigmatize harm reduction and expand access throughout our city.” Naloxone, known by the brand name Narcan, is a medication used to rapidly reverse opioid overdoses. Other harm reductions supplies intended to keep people safe and alive include safe clean injection kits and fentanyl test strips. The kiosks and public health vending machines are part of an “evidence-based strategy” of expanding access to naloxone to combat the city’s opioid crisis, the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) said. The commission cited a 33 percent decrease in overdose deaths to 68 deaths in Boston in the first four months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, noting “promising results” of the strategy. BPHC was using about $7.5 million to expand access to naloxone and other resources as of October 2024. Within the framework of Boston’s federally-funded $2.7 million Overdose Data to Action program, BPHC said they will set up the four public health vending machines at existing harm reduction, homeless services, and medical program facilities. The state purchased a total of 14 of the vending machines. In addition to the naloxone and harm reduction supplies, the organizations at each site may choose to stock the machines with public health necessities like pregnancy tests, socks and PPE, city officials said. The machines will be at BPHC Recovery Services in the Finland Building, Southampton shelter, EnVision Hotel, and North End Waterfront Community Health Center’s Charlestown public housing location. “This work reflects our continued commitment to community health care by increasing access to life saving supplies, inviting individuals into care, and reducing stigmatizing experiences for the Charlestown community,” said David Perry, Director of Substance Use Disorders at North End Waterfront Health, stating they are “proud to partner with BPHC on this initiative.” The naloxone kiosks, funded by Carelon and the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Partnership, will likewise go up at eight locations strategically aimed to reach of populations with higher overdose rates, the commission said. The indoor kiosk locations include Bridge Over Troubled Waters, Harvard Street Neighborhood Health Center, Recovery on the Harbor, SPOKE Gallery, Suffolk County Jail and House of Correction, The Phoenix, and Woods Mullen Women’s Shelter. The kiosks, repurposed from old newspaper stands, will also offer connections to support resources like the phone number for the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line, BPHC said, which offers “free clinical assessments, crisis support, and referrals to treatment for substance use and mental health disorders.” Similar to Boston, Massachusetts saw a significant 23 percent drop in overdose deaths in the past year, totaling 2,032 drug overdose deaths in the 12-month period that ended June 30, 2024. In the U.S., overdose deaths decrease about 14 percent in the same period.Trump vows to pursue executions after Biden commutes most of federal death row

As a smooth-talking media and political pundit, Colman Domingo ’s Muncie Daniels is used to commenting on politics and the news — not becoming the news — in The Madness . However, his fate will quickly change for the worse when we meet him in the new series. When the CNN personality discovers the dead body of a white supremacist in the woods near where he’s staying in the Poconos, he winds up in the crosshairs of law enforcement and possibly framed for murder — and even his lawyer friend Kwesi (Deon Cole) warns the silver-tongued Muncie, “You’re not going to be able to talk your way out of this.... They are going to pin all this on you.” In this paranoia-inducing Netflix thriller, Daniels finds himself in the middle of a sprawling conspiracy that delves into the darkest corners of society and explores the intersections between the wealthy and powerful, the alt-right, and other fringe movements. “[The series] is examining the climate we’re in right now,” Domingo teased to TV Insider. “Who sows those seeds of disinformation? Who’s puppeteering all of this?” To clear his name, Muncie must figure out whether to trust FBI agent Franco Quiñones (John Ortiz) and reconnect with his working-class, activist roots in Philadelphia while reuniting with his family, which includes teenage son Demetrius (Thaddeus J. Mixson), estranged wife Elena (Marsha Stephanie Blake), and daughter Kallie (Gabrielle Graham) from a previous relationship. “He’s trying to solve a crime,” creator Stephen Belber previews, “but at the same time he’s trying to solve something inside of himself.” To find out what else we should know about the new thrill ride, we spoke to The Color Purple and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom star Colman Domingo — who played Victor Strand on Fear the Walking Dead for eight seasons, won an Emmy for Euphoria , and was nominated for a 2024 Oscar for the civil rights drama Rustin — about the bind in which Muncie finds himself in The Madness , the similarities he shares with the character, and the resonance of a story that speaks to our age of online disinformation and conspiracy theories. Why were you drawn to this series and this character? What about it made you say yes to it? Colman Domingo: There’s so much about it that is raising questions about who are we in America right now. What do you believe in? And what are you believing? What’s being fed to you? These are questions that I have deep in my heart, and the series is bringing out those thoughts I have in the back of my head. Like who is manipulating all of us? I do believe there’s people feeding the public misinformation, but it benefits people with money, power, and position. Are there similarities you share with Muncie? Wildly enough, he’s from my neighborhood, from West Philly. He’s a college professor. So am I. There’s a lot of similarities. He’s a public-facing person. Even some of his ideology, where he believes that if you just get people at the table to sit and have a civil conversation, things will get better. I do believe that. I actively do that in my life. And I thought, “Oh, I understand Muncie. I understand what he’s trying to do.” But then the series takes him on another journey to actually go more full-throttle and understand all the dynamics he’s been espousing but not really having to get in the mud with. Is Muncie’s journey in the series a metaphor for how we’re all trying to make sense of this firehose of facts and information, along with disinformation, conspiracy-mongering, and lies that are coming at us 24/7? Yeah. It’s your modern-day North By Northwest, your modern-day Three Days of the Condor. He’s an everyman who has to go on this journey that he’s not ready to go on. He didn’t even know he’s been preparing for it. He was just living his best life, has a great position at CNN, and has been studying jujitsu for his own health. But he didn’t know that he’d need all that to go down the rabbit hole for real. What’s Muncie’s relationship like with his estranged wife, son Demetrius, and his older daughter Kallie from another relationship? All of it is precarious. What’s going on between he and his wife, we made it a gray area. Maybe they both started out as young activists, and the other one moved into celebrity, and the other one is a college professor, and they’re just not meeting [each other] where they used to be. It was more about having a crisis of faith in each other. Then with his daughter [Kallie], he made choices when he was younger, in a relationship he was in before he went to an Ivy League school. So he’s sort of been a deadbeat dad in that way. Then with his younger son, he’s sort of an absentee father. He believes he’s doing the best that he can by providing financially and showing up when he can. But I think he’s been a bit selfish. So this whole crisis is helping him examine not only who he is, but who has he been—and not been—to his family. Now he’s got to do some relationship repair; at the same time, he’s trying to advocate and save his own life and protect his family. Has he lost himself a bit over the years in pursuit of success and ambition? I think so. But I think if you asked Muncie, he wouldn’t say that. I think he believed, no, it’s okay to change. It’s OK to have access and agency. But I think at some point he didn’t realize even in the position that he had, he was just all talk. He was just a talking head. He wasn’t actually doing anything but adding to the noise of the media circuit business. In the crisis that he goes through, how does his family help him to survive? I think he didn’t realize how much he needed them. When we meet him, he’s in a place of stasis. He’s been trying to write this book for years. So he decided to go to the Pocono mountains to try and start writing something. Then he goes on this journey. I think it’s a beautiful hero’s journey. He didn’t know he needed all these things. He didn’t know he needed a heart. He didn’t know he needed a brain...It is ‘no place like home.’ But he realized that his home was attached to other things like celebrity, clothing, and having access. But all of that became more superficial than he even imagined. Amanda Matlovich / Netflix Muncie was a housing activist in his youth, and he reconnects with his West Philly roots and the people in his life from that time. How does he change during the course of the series? I think it’s about helping him to bridge the two parts of himself. It’s one of the first arguments that my character has with the fantastic Eisa Davis, who plays Renee, while hosting a show on CNN. And it’s at the core of the problem. For me, it’s a question of, “What’s the best way?” He’s like, “I am Black and I don’t have to actually be out on the streets anymore. I have more access here on television where I can affect a lot of more people.” And so for me, it’s raising the question of, “Is that right or is that wrong? Or is there a balance of both?” How do race and systemic racism factor into the story of a Black man who gets blamed for the death of a white supremacist? How do you think that will be eye-opening for some viewers? Race plays into it a great deal. Muncie is someone who is probably very adept at code-switching [adjusting one’s style of speech, appearance, and expression to conform to a given community and reduce the potential for discrimination]. When you have celebrity and access, you live more in a bubble where you’re probably not perceived in certain ways. But when all of that goes away, once Muncie has to let go of his Range Rover, his Tom Ford suits, and his position at CNN, he’s perceived as just another ordinary Black man on the street. So even when he goes into that New York shop and changes into a T-shirt, baseball cap, and hoodie [to disguise himself], he’s trying to normalize. Before, he believed was a bit more elevated in some way. I love the question that [his estranged wife] Elena asked him: “What were you doing going over to this white man’s house out in the woods? You felt like you had the privilege to do that? You have to always be careful. You don’t know what’s on the other side. You’re a Black man in America.” He forgot for a moment. What does the title, The Madness , refer to? I think it’s about the madness that we’re all living in when it comes to the 24-hour news cycle and trying to download and sift through information. It’s maddening! And also, I think the madness is also internal, that internal struggle of like, “Who are you, and what do you believe in? Who is real, and who is not?” I think that’s the madness. The Madness , Series Premiere, Thursday, November 28, Netflix More Headlines:The photo circulated on social media Sunday after the Green Bay Packers’ 20-19 victory over the Chicago Bears . Many Bears players had exited the field after the Packers’ stunning block of kicker Cairo Santos’ 46-yard field-goal attempt. But cornerback Jaylon Johnson crouched on the sideline at Soldier Field, staring into the distance. Johnson had been at the center of the Packers’ biggest play of their winning drive, when he fell while trying to defend wide receiver Christian Watson. With Johnson on the ground behind him, Watson made a diving catch on a wide ball from Jordan Love, bounced up after going untouched and ran another 40-plus yards before being taken down at the Bears 14-yard line. “Just processing everything that went on in the game,” Johnson said of his postgame reaction. “The possibilities we had to win. And then it didn’t go out in our favor.” By Wednesday when Johnson was reliving that moment at his locker at Halas Hall, he said he already had moved on. He was on to the next game by Tuesday, he said, and the attention this week’s opponent demands should help that quest. The 2023 Bears Pro Bowler has new, even bigger challenges when he faces the Minnesota Vikings and wide receiver Justin Jefferson at Soldier Field. After an injury-marred 2023 season, Jefferson has 59 catches for 912 yards and five touchdowns in 10 games. He has totaled fewer than 81 receiving yards in a game just twice this season and was deemed “a very special player” by Bears cornerbacks coach Jon Hoke. “He’s a really good route runner,” Hoke said. “He’s extremely competitive. And he’s really good to the ball. They throw him open. He can be covered, and they’ll still throw it to him, and he’ll go up and make a terrific play.” Jefferson and Johnson were both drafted in 2020 and have played for the division rivals since. So it’s an oddity that in eight opportunities they’ve met only two other times — on Jan. 9, 2022, and Nov. 16, 2020. Jefferson totaled a combined 13 catches for 242 yards and a touchdown in those games. Jefferson missed both games last season with a hamstring injury. Johnson missed both games in the 2022 season with injuries and two before that with injury and COVID-19. But Johnson knows well what he and fellow cornerbacks Tyrique Stevenson, Terell Smith and Kyler Gordon will be dealing with. Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) is tackled by Bears cornerback Jaylon Jones on the 1-yard-line on Oct. 9, 2022, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. (Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune) “I don’t feel like he has a weakness,” Johnson said. “They’re going to try to get him the ball, so we have to be prepared to limit his production as best we can. “I’m excited. I love playing against high-level guys like him. Just excited to go against their offense. Explosive offense. ... I’m looking forward to the challenge.” Johnson also sees an opportunity this week in facing Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold, who has thrown 10 interceptions, including five in back-to-back weeks at the beginning of November. Johnson has two picks this season, and another certainly would help erase any bad taste from the Packers loss. The fall against Watson was one of Johnson’s higher-profile missteps in recent memory. Johnson had jammed Watson at the line of scrimmage, then got tripped up as Watson ran a crossing route. Bears defensive coordinator Eric Washington said the only things the Bears should have done differently on the play were “we’ve got to hit the quarterback and we’ve got to try to find a way to stay up.” And a few days later, Johnson said he wouldn’t have approached the play differently. “I would have done it the same way,” Johnson said. “I was just trying to get in position to make a play on the ball, and my feet got tangled up. That was it.” 4 catches. 150 yards. That’s #ProBison Christian Watson. pic.twitter.com/cWfBsnFtyv — NDSU Football (@NDSUfootball) November 17, 2024 Johnson told the “Spiegel and Holmes Show” on WSCR-AM 670 he thought he would have been in position to make an interception if he hadn’t tripped. And Hoke agreed he might have been able to make a play on the ball. “He was getting ready to slip the route and come underneath it,” Hoke said. “He would have been in great shape. He did fall. And he did hit the guy’s foot. But also, give the quarterback credit, he pushed the ball out in front. So it goes both ways in football.” Related Articles Chicago Bears | The Caleb Williams File: How the Chicago Bears QB is preparing for a massive Week 12 test Chicago Bears | Column: Will the Chicago Bears find ways to run on the NFL’s No. 1 rushing defense? Chicago Bears | 4 things we heard from the Chicago Bears, including D’Andre Swift missing practice with a groin injury Chicago Bears | The Chicago Bears have played 37 times on Thanksgiving. Here’s how they’ve fared in each game since 1920. Chicago Bears | How will the Minnesota Vikings defend Chicago Bears QB Caleb Williams? ‘It’s the mobility that stands out.’ But Hoke had more to say on the play. During the game, Bears coach Matt Eberflus challenged that Watson had made the catch, a ruling that stood after review. Hoke said he watched the replay “so many times” and does not think it was a catch. “Go look at the replay. Go look at his left hand. It’s in a ball over here. It’s not over here,” Hoke said, gesturing in opposite directions. “The crazy thing is it’s a (yellow) glove, and you can see where it is, and this one (moves away), and the front of the ball hits the ground.” A replay official — and Hoke pondered who that was — disagreed, and the Packers scored the winning touchdown two plays later. The Bears, of course, had a chance for the winning field goal, but Santos’ kick was blocked, putting more scrutiny on the defense giving up a second winning drive in four games. Now the Bears must try to stop the 8-2 Vikings and an offense that has surprised behind Darnold. They’re averaging 341 yards and 224.6 passing yards per game, the latter ranked 13th. Aaron Jones and Jordan Addison come in behind Jefferson with 29 and 24 catches, respectively. Washington believes Johnson should be able to leave behind the Watson play to focus on the Vikings — and his first shot at Jefferson in years. “He’s the ultimate competitor and pro, and at the corner position, especially in the secondary, you have to have a short memory,” Washington said. “You have to be able to reset very quickly, and that’s who he is. And his play and his whole approach really confirms that.”I Brought You Back to Life, Wike Tells Odili

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By Leslie Patton | Bloomberg Costco Wholesale Corp. is switching manufacturers for its popular Kirkland Signature brand of diapers as its supplier moves away from store brands to increase profitability. First Quality is replacing Kimberly-Clark Corp. as the maker of Costco’s diapers, with the official change set to happen in January, according to people familiar with the decision who weren’t authorized to speak publicly about the matter. More on Costco: Not a Costco member? Shoppers have tips to skip new entry scanners Consumer goods makers have been focused on restoring profit margins to pre-pandemic levels and scrutinizing their business models after years of higher costs. For Kimberly-Clark, which makes the Huggies brand of diapers, that means a shift away from low-margin private label contracts and a stronger focus on selling more higher-priced premium items under their own brand names. First Quality didn’t respond to requests for comment. Representatives for Costco and Kimberly-Clark declined to comment. Earlier this month, Kimberly-Clark Chief Financial Officer Nelson Urdaneta said that the company’s exit of private label businesses, “allows us to dedicate our capacity and our investments to our own technologies and brands to differentiate them.” In October, Chief Executive Officer Mike Hsu said that the company’s percentage of sales from private label will go from about 4% in 2023 to about 2% next year, and that it would decline further “over time.” Also read: Discount retailer Panda Mart leases former Sears in Orange First Quality, which also makes Cuties diapers along with paper towels and toilet paper, hasn’t disclosed the arrangement with Costco. In May, the New York-based company said it was increasing capacity for diapers and training pants by 50% at its Macon, Georgia, manufacturing factory. Costco’s Kirkland Signature diapers have become popular with parents, especially as years of inflation for basic goods crimps spending. The company has said in past years that private label items are a good value versus brand names, thanks to their price point. Costco says it expects to increase sales of Kirkland-branded items, which generally earn higher margins for the retailer versus national labels. Kirkland diapers made by Kimberly-Clark have a curved fit that many shoppers perceive to be more ergonomic for their babies, said Natalia Richer, director of business development at consultant Diaper Testing International. “It will be noticeable to the consumer if they change it,” she said. Kimberly-Clark also makes Kotex tampons and pads, along with Kleenex tissues and Scott toilet paper. Huggies recently introduced a new type of diaper and wipes, dubbed Skin Essentials, designed to protect against rashes. Related Articles Retail | Status Update: Gifts urgently needed for OC Rescue Mission children, adults Retail | Status Update: Barnes & Noble returning to Orange, but with a twist Retail | Cyber Monday shoppers expected to set a record on the year’s biggest day for online shopping Retail | SunFed cucumbers and Costco eggs recalled due to potential salmonella contamination Retail | Gifting on a budget: 5 secrets to being generous without going brokeFox Business' Lauren Simonetti has more on the day dedicated to acts of generosity and charitable giving on 'America's Newsroom.' Black Friday is behind us, but holiday shopping season is still in full swing. Winter holiday spending is expected to grow between 2.5% and 3.5% compared to 2023, according to the National Retail Federation. "That equates to between $979.5 billion and $989 billion in total holiday spending in November and December, compared with $955.6 billion during the same timeframe last year," the same source stated. In addition to having to navigate crowds, consumers can face some health challenges during the hectic retail season. 6 WAYS TO PREVENT HOLIDAY ILLNESS: ASK A DOCTOR To help ensure safety during long shopping stints, Fox News Digital asked a medical doctor for tips on shopping without dropping. 1. Eat before you go It’s never a good idea to go anywhere starving, and Christmas shopping is no exception. Experts recommend packing some healthy snacks to sustain your energy. Winter holiday spending is expected to grow between 2.5% and 3.5% compared to 2023, according to the National Retail Federation. (iStock) If you don’t eat something a few hours after your last meal, energy levels and blood glucose levels could dip, according to Harvard University. "I always recommend a combination of nuts, seeds and fruit as snacks, since they are filling and healthy for everybody," Matthew Badgett, MD, a primary care physician at Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, told Fox News Digital. 4 HOLIDAY NUTRITION TIPS FROM DR. NICOLE SAPHIER "Also, plan to also eat a healthy meal before you hit the road." Packing healthy snacks is a better option than grabbing fast food at the food court, he said. If you plan to take a break during shopping to grab lunch or dinner, Badgett recommends planning ahead to explore eating options and possibly make a reservation. 2. Know your physical limits If you aren’t accustomed to being on your feet for extended periods of time, a long shopping trip could prove to be strenuous. Packing healthy snacks is a better option than grabbing fast food at the food court, the expert said. (iStock) "If you aren't regularly on your feet, limit how long you are walking — otherwise you could find yourself quite sore the next morning," Badgett advised. "If you normally only walk 3,000 to 4,000 steps per day, I wouldn't walk more than 10,000 steps in a day of shopping." 3. Refrain from lugging packages Carrying a few packages is OK, but lugging around several heavy packages is not advised. "Don’t carry too much weight and injure yourself," Badgett warned. "If you normally only walk 3,000 to 4,000 steps per day, I wouldn't walk more than 10,000 steps in a day of shopping." Some stores may have shopping carts to reduce the load, but if that’s not an option, it’s worth heading back to the car or even home to drop off some of the weight, he recommended. It’s recommended to stay up to date on vaccines and wear a mask if you are in a high-risk group, the doctor advised. (iStock) "Carrying too much, especially when you aren't used to it, can place a strain on the arms, shoulders, neck and back and lead to injuries ," the doctor cautioned. "Try to carry manageable weights, balanced between both arms, and take breaks and drop off stuff as needed." 4. Take proactive health measures It’s recommended to stay up to date on vaccines and wear a mask if you are in a high-risk group. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "I recommend N-95 masks over surgical masks, as they are better at preventing germs from getting through," Badgett told Fox News Digital. For those who are sick, the doctor recommends staying home or wearing a mask while out in public. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER Use hand sanitizer, try to social distance and wash hands as needed, experts advise. Some of the germiest spots at shopping venues include elevator buttons, handrails, escalators, public water fountains, ATMs, shopping carts, door knobs and the restroom, according to WebMD. 5. Dress appropriately Experts caution against wearing a heavy coat and accessories while shopping indoors. Overdressing is "is uncomfortable and sweaty," the doctor told Fox News Digital. He recommends dressing in layers to stay as comfortable as possible while shopping. (iStock) Overdressing is "is uncomfortable and sweaty," Badgett told Fox News Digital. He recommends dressing in layers to stay as comfortable as possible while shopping. 6. Limit the duration of shopping trips Breaking up shopping over multiple sessions may be better in terms of health outcomes , Badgett said. Not only will this allow you to maintain better stamina, but you can also take your time shopping and enjoy the experience more. For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health Overdoing it is a bad idea, said Badgett, "since many of us are not used to this much carrying and walking around." Erica Lamberg is a contributing writer for Fox News Digital.Britain, Germany, France, Italy and several other European countries said Monday they would freeze all pending asylum requests from Syrians, a day after the ouster of president Bashar al-Assad. While Berlin and other governments said they were watching the fast-moving developments in the war-ravaged nation, Austria signalled it would soon deport refugees back to Syria. Far-right politicians elsewhere made similar demands, including in Germany -- home to Europe's largest Syrian community -- at a time when immigration has become a hot-button issue across the continent. Alice Weidel, of the anti-immigration Alternative for Germany, reacted with disdain to Sunday's mass rallies by jubilant Syrians celebrating Assad's downfall. "Anyone in Germany who celebrates 'free Syria' evidently no longer has any reason to flee," she wrote on X. "They should return to Syria immediately." World leaders and Syrians abroad watched in disbelief at the weekend as Islamist-led rebels swept into Damascus, ending Assad's brutal rule while also sparking new uncertainty. A German foreign ministry spokesman pointed out that "the fact that the Assad regime has been ended is unfortunately no guarantee of peaceful developments" in the future. Germany has taken in almost one million Syrians, with most arriving in 2015-16 under ex-chancellor Angela Merkel. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said many Syrian refugees "now finally have hope of returning to their Syrian homeland" but cautioned that "the situation in Syria is currently very unclear". The Federal Office for Migration and Refugees had imposed a freeze on decisions for ongoing asylum procedures "until the situation is clearer". She added that "concrete possibilities of return cannot yet be predicted and it would be unprofessional to speculate in such a volatile situation". Rights group Amnesty International slammed Germany's freeze on asylum decisions, stressing that for now "the human rights situation in the country is completely unclear". The head of the UN refugee agency also cautioned that "patience and vigilance" were needed on the issue of refugee returns. In Austria, where about 100,000 Syrians live, conservative Chancellor Karl Nehammer instructed the interior ministry "to suspend all ongoing Syrian asylum applications and to review all asylum grants". Interior Minister Gerhard Karner added he had "instructed the ministry to prepare an orderly repatriation and deportation programme to Syria". "The political situation in Syria has changed fundamentally and, above all, rapidly in recent days," the ministry said, adding it is "currently monitoring and analysing the new situation". The French interior ministry said it too would put asylum requests from Syrians on hold, with authorities in Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Denmark, Sweden and Norway announcing similar moves. Britain's interior ministry said it was taking the same measure "whilst we assess the current situation". The Italian government said late Monday after a cabinet meeting that it too was suspending asylum request "in line with other European partners." The leader of the far-right Sweden Democrats, a coalition partner in the government, said residence permits for Syrian refugees should now be "reviewed". "Destructive Islamist forces are behind the change of power" in Syria, wrote their leader Jimmie Akesson on X. "I see that groups are happy about this development here in Sweden. You should see it as a good opportunity to go home." In Greece, a government spokesman voiced hope that Assad's fall will eventually allow "the safe return of Syrian refugees" to their country, but without announcing concrete measures. In Germany, the debate gained momentum as the country heads towards February elections. Achim Brotel, president of a grouping of German communes, called for border controls to stop fleeing Assad loyalists reaching Germany. The centre-right opposition CDU suggested that rejected Syrian asylum-seekers should now lose so-called subsidiary protection. "If the reason for protection no longer applies, then refugees will have to return to their home country," CDU legislator Thorsten Frei told Welt TV. CDU MP Jens Spahn suggested that Berlin charter flights to Syria and offer 1,000 euros ($1,057) to "anyone who wants to return". A member of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democrats criticised the debate as "populist and irresponsible". Greens party deputy Anton Hofreiter also said "it is completely unclear what will happen next in Syria" and deportation talk was "completely out of place". Many Syrians in Germany have watched the events in their home country with great joy but prefer to wait and see before deciding whether to return. "We want to go back to Syria," said Mahmoud Zaml, 25, who works in an Arabic pastry shop in Berlin, adding that he hopes to help "rebuild" his country. "But we have to wait a bit now," he told AFP. "We have to see what happens and if it is really 100 percent safe, then we will go back to Syria." burs-fz/rlp/phz/gv/giv

Founded in 1899, CC Wakefield & Co. Limited initially focused on producing lubricants for trains and heavy machinery. Over time, the company expanded its expertise to develop specialized lubricants for automobiles and airplane engines, incorporating castor oil - a plant-based oil derived from castor beans - to ensure performance under extreme temperature conditions. The product was called Castrol, and the company was later renamed after its famous creation. 125 years later, remains at the forefront of innovation, applying its extensive expertise in fluid engineering to address modern challenges. One of its key focus areas is the development of advanced dielectric fluids for immersion cooling systems. This approach sees entire servers submerged in non-conductive fluids that absorb and transfer heat away from the components, eliminating the need for traditional fans. Advanced thermal management The Castrol ON Liquid Cooling Centre of Excellence in Pangbourne, UK, serves as a state-of-the-art research and development hub for liquid cooling technologies. The facility develops customized solutions and rigorously tests fluid dynamics, material compatibility, and server performance, to address the challenges of traditional cooling methods. In a recent visit, had the opportunity to see Castrol’s cutting-edge immersion tanks from providers like GRC and Submer and was impressed by the adaptability and efficiency of the solutions. Writer Jordan Ranous noted, “In one of the test cells, we observed GRC’s tank, which had a striking green glow due to the specific fluid Castrol was using. The servers submerged in this tank were undergoing compatibility and performance testing. Castrol ensures that every component, from CPUs to cables, can operate effectively in immersion cooling environments without degradation.” Castrol’s ON range of single-phase dielectric fluids, including DC15 and DC20, aims to deliver advanced thermal management, durability, and safety while maintaining efficient performance at operating temperatures between 40°C and 50°C, with some systems capable of handling up to 70°C. Chris Lockett, VP of Electrification and Castrol Product Innovation at BP, Castrol’s parent company, told , “At the moment, about 40% of power consumption in data centers goes toward cooling. Immersion cooling can drop that figure to less than 5%, significantly lowering power and water usage.” Data centers account for an estimated 2–3% of global power consumption, with current liquid cooling efforts primarily focused on direct-to-chip solutions. Immersion cooling has the potential to establish a new standard for thermal management and Castrol wants to lead this transformation, positioning itself as “a one-stop partner for the liquid cooling solutions of today and tomorrow.”

AP Sports SummaryBrief at 6:08 p.m. ESTLandmark lawsuit brought on behalf of thousands of survivors of child sexual abuse images and videos (CSAM) traded on Apple platforms CUPERTINO, Calif. , Dec. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- This weekend, a class action lawsuit was filed against Apple on behalf of thousands of survivors of child sexual abuse for knowingly allowing the storage of images and videos documenting their abuse on iCloud and the company's defectively designed products. The lawsuit alleges that Apple has known about this content for years, but has refused to act to detect or remove it, despite developing advanced technology to do so. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.

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China's policymakers are set to take a more proactive approach to macroeconomic policies in the year ahead, aiming to tackle both short-term challenges arising from lackluster demand and structural issues, said economists. Citing the recently concluded Central Economic Work Conference, they said the country is fine-tuning its macroeconomic strategy, marking a significant shift toward a consumption-driven economy as it prepares for expansionary fiscal and monetary policies in 2025. "The deficit ratio for 2025 is likely to be the highest on record," said Xiong Yuan, chief economist at Guosheng Securities, anticipating that the government would set the projected deficit-to-GDP ratio for 2025 at 3.5-4 percent or higher in March, up from 3 percent for this year. The Chinese government started to release the annual projected deficit ratio in 2010, with the highest reading in 2020 at 3.6 percent as COVID-19 hit, according to market tracker Wind Info. Xiong said next year's quota of special local government bonds is expected to increase to more than 4.5 trillion yuan ($616.5 billion) from a record high of 3.9 trillion yuan this year, in addition to special treasury bonds of over 2 to 3 trillion yuan in 2025, up from 1 trillion yuan for 2024. Xiong's remarks came as the Central Economic Work Conference held in December pledged to implement more proactive and effective macroeconomic policies, boost domestic demand, drive the integration of sci-tech innovation and industrial innovation, and stabilize the real estate sector and stock markets. The nation will maintain basic equilibrium in the balance of payments and better synchronize the income growth of households and economic expansion, according to the meeting. "While promoting industrial sectors was the top task last year, expanding domestic demand is in the top spot this year," said Lu Ting, chief China economist at Nomura. Lu said that the conference called for more specific measures to support consumption, including increasing basic pension payments, raising fiscal subsidies for basic medical insurance and developing policies to boost fertility. "Overall, the conference adds support to our relatively optimistic view on fiscal policies in 2025 and our view that Beijing may stick to the 'around 5 percent' GDP growth target in 2025," he said. According to the conference, policymakers pledged to roll out more initiatives to boost consumption, including greater strides in equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-in programs. Looking forward, Lu said policymakers might consider an increase in spending on social security for lower-income households and encouraging childbirth. "We especially expect policymakers to significantly increase payments to those rural pensioners (55 percent of total pensioners) whose average monthly pension income is only 225 yuan," he said. "They may also increase financial support for families with a second or third child. And they may also waive part of the annual 400 yuan fee on basic medical insurance for low-income individuals." As the conference reiterated a "more proactive fiscal policy", Lu said his team forecasts a total of 3.6 trillion yuan in incremental borrowing for 2025 versus 2024, or around 2.6 percent of GDP. "We expect the official deficit ratio to be raised from 3 percent this year to 4 percent next year," he said. "We expect net financing from central government special bonds to be raised to 1.5 trillion yuan from 1 trillion yuan in 2024." Regarding local government special bonds, Lu said his teams expect a small increase to 4.5 trillion yuan in 2024. Echoing the meeting of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee held earlier this month, the Central Economic Work Conference statement vowed to conduct "moderately accommodative" monetary policy, switching away from a "prudent" monetary policy for the past 14 years. "The use of words 'moderately accommodative' for monetary policy is the first time since the meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee in July 2010, when China was still dealing with the aftermath of the global financial crisis," Lu added. "The readout emphasizes the dual roles of aggregate and structural monetary policy instruments, leaving room for potential incremental policies from these People's Bank of China structural facilities." The Central Economic Work Conference also promises to launch policy rate cuts and reserve requirement ratio cuts in a timely manner or whenever it is deemed appropriate, maintaining sufficient liquidity, leading the growth rate of aggregate financing and monetary supply to be mostly aligned with the expected targets of economic growth and price inflation. "The focus on the policy rate and RRR cuts is consistent with our view, as we forecast two rounds of policy rate cuts in the first quarter and second quarter of 2025, respectively, and one 50-basis-point RRR cut before end-2024 and two 50-basis-points RRR cuts in 2025," Lu said. With the help of a raft of government measures aimed at stimulating domestic demand and stabilizing growth in the second half of this year, China's economy showed sustained recovery with the latest economic indicators pointing to green shoots of a steady rebound heading into 2025. Data released by the National Bureau of Statistics showed that China's value-added industrial output grew 5.4 percent year-on-year in November, up from a 5.3 percent rise in the previous month. "This improvement reflects the impact of a series of incremental policy measures that have bolstered market confidence and supported demand recovery," said Wang Qing, chief macroeconomic analyst at Golden Credit Rating International. Looking ahead, Wang believes that the demand for consumption and investment will continue to pick up amid a series of stimulus measures, driving strong growth in industrial production. "Industrial production growth will remain robust in December, likely in the range of 5 percent to 6 percent." NBS data showed that the growth of retail sales slowed to 3 percent year-on-year in November from 4.8 percent in October, while fixed-asset investment saw 3.3 percent year-on-year growth during the January-November period, down from 3.4 percent in the first 10 months. Wang said the growth rate of retail sales slowed in November, as this year's "Double 11" shopping festival presale started earlier, shifting some consumer demand from November to October. With consumption-boosting policies taking effect gradually and the gradual improvement in consumer sentiment, Wang estimated retail sales to grow around 4.5 percent year-on-year in December. "We anticipate that in 2025, policy measures to stimulate consumption will be further ramped up," he said. Among these measures, Wang said the country may fund a 600 billion yuan tradein deal for consumer goods to spark household demand, and the range of subsidized products is likely to expand to include consumer electronics, home furnishings, and other durable goods. Meanwhile, he believes fiscal support for childbirth might be piloted next year, such as one-time or monthly subsidies for families with newborns, with the support scale potentially reaching 100 billion yuan. "There may also be a nationwide issuance of consumption vouchers and subsidies in 2025, which would expand the scope of consumption stimulation from durable goods to include general merchandise and service consumption," he said. "This reflects an important shift in the current macroeconomic policy direction, where the previous countercyclical investment policies with a key emphasis on investment are now shifting toward a more balanced approach, prioritizing both consumption and investment, with an increased focus on consumption."

Drew Lock matched his career high of four touchdown passes and also rushed for a score and the New York Giants snapped their franchise-record 10-game losing streak with an entertaining 45-33 victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday in East Rutherford, N.J. Malik Nabers had seven receptions for a career-best 171 yards and two touchdowns to exceed 100 receptions and 1,000 yards during his strong rookie campaign. New York (3-13) registered a season best for points scored by more than tripling its league-worst season average of 14.3 per game. The setback eliminated the Colts (7-9) from the AFC playoff race. Lock completed 17 of 23 passes for 309 yards and Wan'Dale Robinson and Darius Stayton also had receiving scores for the Giants, who won at home for the first time this season. Ihmir Smith-Marsette returned a kickoff for a touchdown. Joe Flacco started for Indianapolis with Anthony Richardson (back/foot) sidelined and completed 26 of 38 passes for 330 yards and two touchdowns. But he also was intercepted twice and lost a fumble. Jonathan Taylor rushed for 125 yards and two touchdowns on 32 carries, Michael Pittman Jr. had nine receptions for 109 yards and one touchdown and Alec Pierce caught six passes for 122 yards and a score. Indianapolis pulled within 35-33 on Flacco's 7-yard touchdown pass to Pittman with 6:38 remaining. The Giants answered with Lock's 5-yard scramble with 2:57 left to push the lead to nine. After Flacco was picked off by Dru Phillips, Graham Gano tacked on a 30-yard field goal 37 seconds later to put it away. New York held an eight-point halftime lead before Smith-Marsette fielded the opening kickoff of the second half and returned it 100 yards for a touchdown to give the Giants a 28-13 advantage. The Colts answered with Taylor's 26-yard run to move within eight with 11:03 left in the third quarter. Flacco threw a 13-yard touchdown catch to Pierce with 10:53 remaining in the game to move Indianapolis within two. A trick play on the two-point conversion failed. New York increased its lead to nine just more than two minutes later when Nabers caught a short pass at midfield and easily shed two tacklers before sprinting down the right sideline for a 59-yard score. Lock tossed three first-half touchdown passes as the Giants led 21-13 at the break. Nabers caught a short pass in the right flat and raced 31 yards for a score to give New York a 7-3 lead with 1:05 left in the opening quarter. He finished the day with 104 receptions for 1,140 yards. Lock tossed touchdown passes of 32 yards to Slayton and 5 yards to Robinson while increasing the lead to 21-6. Taylor scored on a 3-yard run with 20 seconds remaining. --Field Level MediaThe union representing about 55,000 striking postal workers said it is “disappointed and frustrated” with Canada Post’s proposals as the labour disruption drags into its fourth week. However, in a statement Sunday afternoon, the Crown corporation told the Star that it has yet to receive a formal response from the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) through the federally-appointed mediator after its latest proposal on Friday. “We continue to operate within a confidential process, which was agreed to by Canada Post and CUPW,” Canada Post wrote in a statement. “While we strongly disagree with the responses the union has shared publicly, we encourage CUPW to share their positions through the formal process.” In an email to the Star, CUPW said it “respects” the bargaining process and noted that its representatives met with the mediator Saturday afternoon to discuss the proposals, which they argue contain “drastic changes and rollbacks that no union in the world would ever accept.” CPP and OAS cheques will still be delivered. However, cheques for many social assistance “We urge Canada Post to bring forward proposals that reflect the value of its workforce,” the union said. “While no counterproposal has been made yet, CUPW negotiators remain committed to working toward a fair deal and are ready to return to the table.” Details of the proposals exchanged between the two sides during the mediation process have not been shared publicly. The Crown corporation said it remains committed to getting people “back to work.” “Our proposals include significant moves to close the gap on key issues like weekend delivery, pensions and wages to reach new agreements,” a Canada Post spokesperson said. The strike began on Nov. 15 and will hit the four-week mark this Friday. In the last three weeks, most mail and parcels have not been processed or delivered, except for some . Both parties have been informally communicating via the meditator to find a solution, but have not been back to the official bargaining table since were suspended last week. As the strike continues, especially amid a crucial holiday period for many small businesses and customers, pressure has been building on the federal government to step in. But in a statement on Saturday, Ottawa signalled it’s not planning to intervene and force the postal employees back to work through binding arbitration. “We urge the parties to get back to the negotiating table,” Matthieu Perrotin, press secretary to Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon, stated in an email to the Star Saturday morning. “Parties must do the work necessary to reach a deal, as Canadians are counting on them. Those with passports being held by Service Canada can arrange to pick them up in person, “Negotiated agreements are always the best way forward,” he wrote. CUPW president Jan Simpson told the Star in an interview Saturday that the government not intervening is a “good thing.” The union had called for a cumulative wage hike of 24 per cent over four years, while the company previously countered with wage increases totalling 11.5 per cent over four years and additional paid leave, while protecting the defined benefit pension and job security provisions. “The proposals that they put forward are not adequate. This strike highlights there’s so many unresolved systemic issues. And it’s not an overreach of the unions to try to fix these,” Simpson said.

Not one can say Kenny Pickett isn’t tough. Although most people associated with the Eagles are being tight lipped about the situation, a source with knowledge of the situation tells PFT that the Eagles backup quarterback indeed played Sunday’s game with broken ribs. Cornerback Darius Slay is the only person connected to the team to let the cat out of the bag . We’re told that Pickett received two painkilling injections today — one before the game and one at halftime. Pickett left in the third quarter after being hit by Cowboys pass rusher Micah Parsons. For Pickett’s part, he said after the game, “I’m good. I’ll be all right.” It’s not as important for him to be ready to go next week, with the No. 2 seed clinched in the NFC. They’ll need him or Jalen Hurts in two weeks for the wild-card round. Hurts remains in the concussion protocol. The team has declined to comment regarding Hurts’s progress, if any, through the five steps needed for clearance to play.USC and Texas A&M once had playoff hopes but instead will meet in the Las Vegas Bowl

The newly formed Bangladesh Film Certification Board, established just two months ago, has already sparked critical debate. Central to the discussion are concerns about its ability to implement the Bangladesh Film Certification Act, 2023, and the specific guidelines it follows in decision-making. While its formation is seen as a progressive step, a lack of clarity in its operational framework hampers its work. In an effort to understand the challenges and tentative guidelines, The Daily Star reached out to board members and stakeholders. Their insights highlight the complexities of transitioning from the long-standing censor board to a modern certification body. From censorship to certification: A historical context The announcement of the Film Certification Board on September 22 this year marked a significant milestone in Bangladesh's cinematic landscape. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting replaced the Bangladesh Film Censor Board with the Bangladesh Film Certification Board, reshaping decades-old regulatory practices. Tracing the history of film censorship in Bangladesh reveals a long journey-- starting with the East Bengal of Film Censors (1952) during the pre-independence era, evolving into the Central Board of Film Censors (1963), and eventually becoming the Bangladesh Film Censor Board (1972) post-independence. Now, the newly formed Bangladesh Film Certification Board aims to modernise film regulation and align it with international standards. Since its formation, the board has cleared over 10 films, including "Voyal", the country's first A-grade film. While this milestone represents progress in age-based classification, the journey toward the system's refinement remains a work in progress. Tentative guidelines and challenges The certification board has been striving to establish a comprehensive framework. However, a board member, who wishes to remain anonymous, revealed that the draft guidelines submitted to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting remain undisclosed even to board members. This opacity fosters uncertainty regarding the standards the board is expected to uphold. Meanwhile, Md Abdul Jalil, vice chairman of the Film Certification Board, confirmed the development, stating, "The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has already formed a technical committee, which will be responsible for reviewing the draft we have submitted." Actress Quazi Nawshaba Ahmed, board member and animal rights advocate, emphasised the need for stricter regulations on using animals in films. "Many remain unaware of the silent suffering endured by animals during productions," she explained. "Amidst the chaos on set, who notices the fear, pain, or thirst of a waiting animal? Unlike actors, they cannot call for help." She proposed mandatory on-set veterinary professionals to certify the welfare of animals before granting a film clearance. If implemented, this regulation would be a landmark in the country's film certification system. Nawshaba also suggested requiring producers to provide a clearance certificate confirming full payment to all cast and crew members, a standard practice internationally. "Our industry struggles with payment issues," she noted. "Requiring a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from technicians and cast would ensure accountability." She also highlighted the need to enhance disclaimers regarding smoking and drinking in films. She pointed to practices in neighbouring countries, where films begin with advertisements highlighting the dangers of tobacco and alcohol. "These disclaimers should also appear during intermissions and at the film's conclusion," she added. Another proposed rule addresses the environmental impact of filmmaking, specifically the use of plastic on set and during the production process. The artiste stressed the importance of raising awareness about the harmful effects of plastic on the environment and suggested advocating this message using the certification framework. Structural concerns and criticisms Director Khijir Hayat Khan, another Board member, expressed dissatisfaction with the board's composition, particularly the 50 percent representation of government officials. "This ratio should be reduced to 20 percent to ensure impartial decision-making," he asserted. Khijir criticised certain sections of the Bangladesh Film Certification Act, 2023, as restrictive and outdated. For instance, Section 12 allows the board to reject a film based on subjective criteria like incoherent storytelling or poor cinematography. "These subjective criteria can easily become tools for censorship," Khijir warned. Another one is Section 14, which empowers district magistrates to halt a film's release if deemed contrary to the public interest. Khijir argued that such provisions are incompatible with a professional film industry aspiring to meet international standards. Another issue raised by Khijir concerns collaborative projects. He emphasised the need for equitable collaboration in joint productions, ensuring equal involvement of technicians and cast from both participating countries to ensure fairness and mutual benefit. A ray of hope amidst challenges Despite the concerns and criticisms, some stakeholders remain optimistic. Film critic Dr Zakir Hossain Raju, who is also a board member, highlighted the shift's potential. "The censor board deemed all cleared films suitable for all ages. The certification board introduces age-specific ratings, vital for protecting younger audiences," he explained. While acknowledging the limitations of the Film Certification Act, 2023, Dr Raju expressed hope that these issues would be addressed promptly. "We have requested the concerned ministries to implement the guidelines as soon as possible," he said. Legal and political considerations The implementation of new guidelines for the Film Certification Board also raises governance-related concerns. Stakeholders worry that the absence of an elected government could stall progress. However, Barrister Jyotirmoy Barua, who is also a human rights activist, clarified the legal process. "The standard procedure requires at least a two-thirds majority in voting to pass an amendment in the parliament. Once passed, it requires the president's approval after being gazetted. If the president fails to respond within 15 days, the law would be enacted by default. In the absence of a parliament, the president can enact laws through direct approval," he stated, suggesting that the procedure would require even less time in the current situation and political uncertainties should not hinder its implementation. The establishment of the Bangladesh Film Certification Board is a turning point in the country's cinematic history. Its efforts to adopt international best practices and address longstanding issues—such as animal welfare, fair payment practices, and environmental awareness—are commendable. However, structural reforms and the removal of restrictive provisions in the Film Certification Act, 2023, are critical for success. A comparative analysis of past censorship laws and the current act—such as among Censorship of Films Act, 1963, Censorship of Films Act, 1977, and the Bangladesh Film Certification Act, 2023— reveals striking similarities, with some new provisions being even more restrictive. The analysis indicates that the majority of the sections in the certification act pertain to censorship and bear no relevance to certification or rating. In essence, censorship hinders cinema's capacity to portray society authentically. Therefore, it's crucial to establish a robust system that classifies films by age appropriateness while ensuring artistic freedom. With clear guidelines, reduced bureaucratic influence, and effective legal mechanisms, the certification board has the potential to transform Bangladesh's film industry and elevate it to international standards.

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Sam Darnold completed 33 of 43 passes for a career-best 377 yards to go with three touchdowns and one interception, and the Minnesota Vikings escaped with a 27-25 win over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday afternoon in Minneapolis. Justin Jefferson had eight catches for 92 yards for Minnesota (14-2), which won its ninth game in a row. Jalen Nailor, Jordan Addison and Cam Akers had one touchdown reception apiece for the Vikings. Jordan Love completed 19 of 30 passes for 185 yards and one touchdown for Green Bay (11-5). Josh Jacobs and Emanuel Wilson each rushed for a touchdown and Malik Heath had a touchdown catch for the Packers, who lost to the Vikings for the second time this season. Minnesota's nine-game winning streak matches its third longest in franchise history. The Vikings are enjoying their longest stretch of success since 1975, when they won 10 straight. Green Bay rallied with back-to-back touchdowns in the fourth quarter to pull within two. Wilson scored on a 5-yard run to cut the Packers' deficit to 27-18 with 6:12 to go. Love brought Green Bay within 27-25 with 2:18 to play. He fired a 3-yard touchdown pass to Heath, who scored on a quick slant. The Vikings got the ball on the following kickoff and never gave it back to Green Bay. Darnold secured the win when he lobbed a pass to Akers for a first down to set up the victory formation. The Packers opened the scoring late in the first quarter with a 22-yard field goal by Brandon McManus. Minnesota responded to grab a 13-3 lead at the half. Darnold found Nailor for a 31-yard touchdown with 11:52 remaining in the first half. Nailor was wide open and made a basket catch near the back of the end zone. Reichard rounded out the first-half scoring with field goals from 25 yards and 50 yards. The Vikings increased their lead to 20-3 on the opening drive of the second half. Addison made a diving grab for an 18-yard touchdown. Green Bay pulled within 20-10 with 5:07 left in the third quarter. Jacobs scored on a 2-yard run. Darnold's third touchdown pass, this time to Akers, made it 27-10 in favor of the Vikings with 51 seconds remaining in the third quarter. --Field Level MediaGhana'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

D ear Cathy: We have a wonderful little shih tzu mix that we rescued a few years ago. We absolutely adore her! We have one problem: She barks at the TV like crazy when she sees an animal of any kind. You can see her go on high alert when she hears a commercial, and as you know, animals appear in almost all commercials and many shows. It is so annoying and disruptive; we just don’t know how to stop her other than keep the TV off. We are retired, and TV is our evening entertainment. Any suggestions? — Nancy, Portage, Indiana Dear Nancy: This canine behavior is actually quite common. Dogs often perceive animals on the screen as real intruders into their territory, which can trigger protective behaviors. Some dogs even react to sports shows, like tennis and basketball games, if they love chasing balls themselves. With TVs larger and more realistic, it’s no wonder these visuals feel real to them. To help manage her barking, try desensitization and counter-conditioning. Start by turning the TV on at a very low volume and rewarding her calm behavior with treats or praise. Gradually increase the volume over time, always rewarding her for staying relaxed. When introducing these visuals, use animal shows, as they can help her acclimate to the specific triggers. Pause the TV on an animal image (so there is no sound at first), reward her for staying calm, and then slowly work up to playing the video and then with audio. There are plenty of animal videos on YouTube that you can use to practice with her. Redirecting her focus can also be helpful. Keep a favorite toy or chew item nearby that she only receives in the evening. Give it to her when you think she is about to react to one of those on-air triggers. Pair an alert with commands like “quiet” or “leave it,” and reward her when she listens with the toy or chew. Creating a cozy, quiet space away from the TV can also give her a place to retreat if she feels overstimulated. With training and consistency, she can learn to relax during your TV time. Dear Cathy: I read your column in Newsday today about giving feral cats a good home for the winter and wanted to share an idea. My mom cares for 10 ferals that are comfortable using their insulated houses, but to add to their comfort, we’ve placed heated snow-melting mats from a company called HeatTrak. These mats not only provide a cozy spot for the cats to lounge day and night but also ensure my mom, who’s 87, has a safe, snow-free path for feeding them during winter. We leave the mats on all season rather than just during snowstorms, and the electricity cost is surprisingly low. We even had a custom-sized mat made for a long, narrow walkway near the cats’ houses. While I’m not affiliated with the company, I’ve been impressed with their products. — Laura, Long Island, New York Dear Laura: Thank you for the tip. I don’t normally cover specific products in my column, but the product looks like something people in the northern part of the U.S. might use, so I want people to use the product safely around pets. First, the way you are using the product is perfectly acceptable. HeatTrak says its mats are perfectly safe for small- to medium-sized pets to lie on, and many pet owners have found them helpful in creating warm, snow-free pathways. As you say, pets probably often appreciate the added warmth. But it’s important to note that these mats are not recommended for use with large pets. Apparently, the weight of a larger animal lying on the mat could affect the internal heating elements, potentially leading to overheating or damage. Also, these mats should never be used inside a house, a doghouse or any enclosed space. HeatTrak says its mats are designed exclusively for outdoor use and must remain uncovered in the open to operate safely. Cathy M. Rosenthal is an author and pet expert. Email her at cathy@petpundit.com . Please include your name, city and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal. Get local news delivered to your inbox!If you want to get moving on that holiday shopping, here's where to start: a bunch of comfy-cozy slippers from are now on sale at Amazon. That's right, the brand that made is now offering their best and snuggliest on sale for up to 60% off. We suggest you snag one pair of Dearfoams for you, and one for everyone in your crew. They make great gifts and superb stocking stuffers; always a thoughtful treat for anyone looking to snuggle up as the days get colder. We've collected the best markdowns from right here, so you can find just the right pair for everyone. Scroll on, and get your "Add to Cart" finger ready! This is the slipper ideal that made it to . As she said: "Give a knit slipper with a faux-fur cuff and a memory foam insole —and you’ve just delivered relaxation-in-a-box to your nearest and dearest." This isn't the first time Dearfoams has made Oprah's list, but these slippers merge comfortable and cute — and they come in eight colors. This rave reviewer agrees with Oprah: "Dearfoams are a popular brand of slippers, for good reason. I just liberated my new pair from the hang tag they came attached to, and slipped them on. Instantly, my toes are warm, and the soles of my feet are soothed by the comfort of the lining." Another Oprah favorite, you can wake and walk in comfort with these quilted slippers. Made for cozy mornings, they're lined with soft faux sherpa and have a memory foam sole. This teddy slipper is a cold-morning fave for those who like a slipper that covers their whole foot. "I was never a slipper-wearing person, but these are such a game changer," reported a . "Super comfy and warm...like little sleeping bags on your feet!" This deal is for people who like their bills low and their comfort level high. With a rubber outsole and memory foam insole, these soft chenille slippers are cute and comfy enough to wear outside. This is also one of the more popular slipper styles from Dearfoams, with nearly 4,000 five-star fans. "Soft and cozy!" noted a "These slippers are my go-to around the house! I love that they have the foam on the inside, it makes them very comfortable. Also, they wash really well (cold cycle). The best part, if you do need to step outside in the yard to get the mail, they have a solid bottom!" Looking for a multipurpose, multi-surface slipper? Designed with a multi-density cushioned insole and memory foam, these Dearfoams will bring you instant comfort and relaxation. And thanks to their rubber soles, these velour slippers can be worn indoors while lounging around the house or outdoors to grab the mail or walk the dog. And they get the thumbs-up from more than 5,000 five-star fans. "Finding a slipper that just fits and is comfortable and supports is the most wonderful thing for my crazy feet," said a . "[These are] the best house slipper around. I bought 4 pairs. Machine washable, air dry, always have a spare. Very pleased with DearFoams." One of Dearfoams's more popular styles, these bridge the gap between indoor and outdoor shoes. With the inspiration of more than 3,300 five-star ratings, you're practically guaranteed to wear these through winter and beyond. "I like having something to wear around the house (especially in winter) because I have hard floors and they get dirty easy with all my young kids," wrote a . "I do not, however, like having hot feet. These slippers are great! My feet don't get sweaty in them, but they are comfy and warm." One of the most popular Dearfoams slippers, with more 8,000 five-star ratings, these adorable slippers are for the mama bear who deserves of pampering. The fluffy footbed and memory foam insole will make her feel like she's dancing clouds rather than running around the house. Just take it from this who puts it perfectly: "These slippers feel so cozy on my feet, I hate to take them off to put on shoes!" These popular house shoes cover what your pajamas don't — with luxurious chenille and a memory foam sole, your ankles get the same plush treatment as your tootsies. "I bought these for my wife, and she really likes them a lot ... and she doesn’t like anything (including me, sometimes)," wrote a . "But that all changed once I threw these at her and said, 'You always say your feet are cold, so I got you these slippers to keep them warm.'" These clogs are great to slide on when you are looking for some extra snuggliness for your deserving tootsies. These plush slippers are made with a soft and breathable terry lining that keeps your feet dry and comfortable, and a sweatshirt-material exterior for optimal coziness. And don't forget to add the on-page coupon for extra savings. They're a successful gift too: "I purchased these as a gift for my mom, and she loved them," shared . "In her own words, they are like Cadillacs for your feet. And she loves that the bottoms are like regular shoes, so she can wear them out around the house. The gray color looks nice, and they are durable yet comfortable." For a slipper you can wear just like a shoe, these moccasins have a tough rubber sole that stands up to concrete and a genuine suede upper with a faux shearling lining for comfort. "I’ve had these slippers for quite a while now, and they still look brand-new," wrote a "Faux lining is intact, and they are so warm and comfortable (I always have cold feet). These feel like a cozy hug for your feet. (Is that weird?!?)" Planning a walk down the aisle? These cute puffs of clouds can help get you prepped for the altar. And if you want to name-drop, Kristin Chenoweth was spotted in these adorable wedding-themed slippers. "I surprised my daughter with these on her wedding day, and they couldn’t have been more perfect," wrote one . "She was able to wear them all day while she was getting ready, and they were super comfy. Then, after her ceremony, I set them underneath her chair at her sweetheart table and she was able to use them during her reception while she greeted her guests and danced the night away. She got so many compliments and she said it was probably her favorite gift from her wedding. My other daughter is getting married next December, and she will be getting a pair as well. They were way better than I anticipated and beautiful!" These are exactly what you want to step into when you get out of the shower — nearly 9,000 rave reviewers agree. For those who like a more traditional house slipper, you can't go wrong with this popular style. "Whenever I wear these around the house my husband always reminds me of the movie where Aretha Franklin wears the same slippers," wrote a . "These are fabulous, love the old-school vintage feel and look." If you have , you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. . (And by the way, those without still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.) Isotoner Mya Microsuede Gloves Gloria Vanderbilt Amanda High-Rise Tapered Jean Adidas Cloudfoam Pure Sneaker Anne Klein Bangle, Watch and Bracelet Set SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage Orolay Down Jacket Mario Badescu Super Collagen Mask MySmile Teeth Whitening Pen Philips Sonicare 4100 Power Toothbrush Original Peloton Bike

goalkeeper is "alert" and conscious after being taken off the field on a stretcher during the team's at on Thursday, manager Julen Lopetegui said. The game was delayed for around eight minutes as Fabianski received treatment on the field at St Mary's Stadium. The 39-year-old Polish goalkeeper was hurt in a collision from a corner and was replaced by in the 36th minute. Southampton 'keeper had run the length of the field to check on Fabianski amid worrying scenes. Fabianski was then greeted by applause as he was taken off with an oxygen mask on, but did not need to go to the hospital. "He had one big knock around the head, around the neck and he was not very sure about his actions. Fortunately the news is he is talking, he is alert, he is conscious," Lopetegui said. "I talk with him. The doctors say that he feels better and well. I am positive with him. He showed he more or less recovered his sense. I am not afraid. We feared but now he is better and it is a positive feeling because we were very worried." West Ham, which also saw defender go off in the first half, scored through in the 59th.Jimmy Carter, who served one term as the 39th U.S. President, died on Dec. 29. He was 100. Statements were issued Sunday evening by members of New Hampshire Congressional delegation, including U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen and U.S. Congressman Chris Pappas. Jimmy Carter (James Earl Carter Jr.), 39th President of the United States, was born October 1, 1924, in the small farming town of Plains, Georgia, and grew up in the nearby community of Archery. His father, James Earl Carter Sr., was a farmer and businessman; his mother, Lillian Gordy Carter, a registered nurse. He was educated in the public school of Plains, attended Georgia Southwestern College and the Georgia Institute of Technology, and received a B.S. degree from the United States Naval Academy in 1946. In the Navy he became a submariner, serving in both the Atlantic and Pacific fleets and rising to the rank of lieutenant. Chosen by Admiral Hyman Rickover for the nuclear submarine program, he was assigned to Schenectady, New York, where he took graduate work at Union College in reactor technology and nuclear physics and served as senior officer of the pre-commissioning crew of the Seawolf , the second nuclear submarine. On July 7, 1946, he married Rosalynn Smith of Plains. When his father died in 1953, he resigned his naval commission and returned with his family to Georgia. He took over the Carter farms, and he and Rosalynn operated Carter’s Warehouse, a general-purpose seed and farm supply company in Plains. He quickly became a leader of the community, serving on county boards supervising education, the hospital authority, and the library. In 1962 he won election to the Georgia Senate. He lost his first gubernatorial campaign in 1966, but won the next election, becoming Georgia’s 76th governor on January 12, 1971. He was the Democratic National Committee campaign chairman for the 1974 congressional and gubernatorial elections. On December 12, 1974, he announced his candidacy for president of the United States. He won his party’s nomination on the first ballot at the 1976 Democratic National Convention, and was elected president on November 2, 1976. Jimmy Carter served as president from January 20, 1977 to January 20, 1981. Significant foreign policy accomplishments of his administration included the Panama Canal treaties, the Camp David Accords, the treaty of peace between Egypt and Israel, the SALT II treaty with the Soviet Union, and the establishment of U.S. diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. He championed human rights throughout the world. On the domestic side, the administration’s achievements included a comprehensive energy program conducted by a new Department of Energy; deregulation in energy, transportation, communications, and finance; major educational programs under a new Department of Education; and major environmental protection legislation, including the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act. In 1982, he became University Distinguished Professor at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, and founded The Carter Center. Actively guided by President Carter, the nonpartisan and nonprofit Center addresses national and international issues of public policy. Carter Center staff and associates join with President Carter in efforts to resolve conflict, promote democracy, protect human rights, and prevent disease and other afflictions. The Center has spearheaded the international effort to eradicate Guinea worm disease, which is poised to be the second human disease in history to be eradicated. The permanent facilities of The Carter Presidential Center were dedicated in October 1986, and include the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum, administered by the National Archives . Also open to visitors is the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site in Plains, administered by the National Park Service. According to his official White House biography , Carter could point to a number of achievements in domestic affairs. He dealt with the energy shortage by establishing a national energy policy and by decontrolling domestic petroleum prices to stimulate production. He prompted Government efficiency through civil service reform and proceeded with deregulation of the trucking and airline industries. He sought to improve the environment. His expansion of the national park system included protection of 103 million acres of Alaskan lands. To increase human and social services, he created the Department of Education, bolstered the Social Security system, and appointed record numbers of women, blacks, and Hispanics to Government jobs. In foreign affairs, Carter set his own style. His championing of human rights was coldly received by the Soviet Union and some other nations. In the Middle East, through the Camp David agreement of 1978, he helped bring amity between Egypt and Israel. He succeeded in obtaining ratification of the Panama Canal treaties. Building upon the work of predecessors, he established full diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China and completed negotiation of the SALT II nuclear limitation treaty with the Soviet Union. There were serious setbacks, however. The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan caused the suspension of plans for ratification of the SALT II pact. The seizure as hostages of the U. S. embassy staff in Iran dominated the news during the last 14 months of the administration. The consequences of Iran’s holding Americans captive, together with continuing inflation at home, contributed to Carter’s defeat in 1980. Even then, he continued the difficult negotiations over the hostages. Iran finally released the 52 Americans the same day Carter left office. The Carters have three sons, one daughter, nine grandsons (one deceased), three granddaughters, five great-grandsons, and eight great-granddaughters. On December 10, 2002, the Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for 2002 to Mr. Carter “for his decades of untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.” Information included from jimmycarterlibrary.gov and whitehouse.gov Subscribe to receive your free daily eNews + a note from the Ink Link publisher . Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.

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Berlin: Tech billionaire Elon Musk caused uproar after backing Germany’s far-right party in a major newspaper ahead of key parliamentary elections in the Western European country, leading to the resignation of Welt am Sonntag’ s opinion editor in protest. Germany is to vote in an early election on February 23 after Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s three-party governing coalition collapsed last month in a dispute over how to revitalise the country’s stagnant economy. Elon Musk has involved himself deeply in US politics - now he’s turned his attention to Germany. Credit: AP Musk’s guest opinion piece for Welt am Sonntag — a sister publication of POLITICO owned by the Axel Springer Group — published in German over the weekend, was the second time this month he supported the Alternative for Germany, or AfD . “The Alternative for Germany (AfD) is the last spark of hope for this country,” Musk wrote in his translated commentary. He went on to say the far-right party “can lead the country into a future where economic prosperity, cultural integrity and technological innovation are not just wishes, but reality”. Loading The Tesla Motors chief executive also wrote that his investment in Germany gave him the right to comment on the country’s condition. The AfD is polling strongly, but its candidate for the top job, Alice Weidel, has no realistic chance of becoming chancellor because other parties refuse to work with the far-right party. An ally of US President-elect Donald Trump, the technology billionaire challenged in his opinion piece the party’s public image. “The portrayal of the AfD as right-wing extremist is clearly false, considering that Alice Weidel, the party’s leader, has a same-sex partner from Sri Lanka! Does that sound like Hitler to you? Please!” Musk’s commentary has led to a debate in German media over the boundaries of free speech, with the paper’s own opinion editor announcing her resignation, pointedly on Musk’s social media platform, X. “I always enjoyed leading the opinion section of WELT and WAMS. Today an article by Elon Musk appeared in Welt am Sonntag . I handed in my resignation yesterday after it went to print,” Eva Marie Kogel wrote. Eva Marie Kogel, the editor who quit in protest after her paper ran an Elon Musk opinion piece. Credit: Martin U. K. Lengemann The newspaper was also attacked by politicians and other media for offering Musk, an outsider, a platform to express his views, in favour of the AfD. Candidate for chancellor, Friedrich Merz, of the Christian Democratic Union, said on Sunday that Musk’s comments were “intrusive and presumptuous”. He was speaking to the newspapers of the German Funke Media Group. Supporters of the far-right Alternative for Germany political party hold a placard that reads: “Germany First!” at an AfD campaign rally in Thuringia. Credit: Getty Images Co-leader of the Social Democratic Party, Saskia Esken said that “Anyone who tries to influence our election from outside, who supports an anti-democratic, misanthropic party like the AfD, whether the influence is organised by the state from Russia or by the concentrated financial and media power of Elon Musk and his billionaire friends on the Springer board, must expect our tough resistance,” according to the ARD national public TV network. “In Elon Musk’s world, democracy and workers’ rights are obstacles to more profit,” Esken told Reuters. “We say quite clearly: Our democracy is defensible and it cannot be bought.” Musk’s opinion piece in the Welt am Sonntag was accompanied by a critical article by the future editor-in-chief of the Welt group, Jan Philipp Burgard. “Musk’s diagnosis is correct, but his therapeutic approach, that only the AfD can save Germany, is fatally wrong,” Burgard wrote. A general view of The Reichstag, which houses the German lower House of Parliament or Bundestag. Snap elections are scheduled for February 23. Credit: Getty Images Responding to a request for comment from the German Press Agency, dpa, the current editor-in-chief of the Welt group, Ulf Poschardt, and Burgard — who is due to take over on January 1 — said in a joint statement that the discussion over Musk’s piece was “very insightful. Democracy and journalism thrive on freedom of expression.” “This will continue to determine the compass of the “world” in the future. We will develop “ Die Welt ” even more decisively as a forum for such debates,” they wrote to dpa. AP, Reuters Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on what’s making headlines around the world. Sign up for the weekly What in the World newsletter here . Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. EU Germany Elon Musk Most Viewed in World LoadingFormula one, two: Meet the Perth twins driving the next generation in STEM

ih777 A judge on Monday rejected a request to block a San Jose State women's volleyball team member from playing in a conference tournament on grounds that she is transgender. The ruling by U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Kato Crews in Denver will allow the player, who has played all season, to compete in the Mountain West Conference women's championship opening this week in Las Vegas. The ruling comes in a lawsuit filed by nine current players against the Mountain West Conference challenging the league's policies for allowing transgender players to participate. The players argued that letting her compete was a safety risk and unfair. While some media have reported those and other details, neither San Jose State nor the forfeiting teams have confirmed the school has a trans woman volleyball player. The Associated Press is withholding the player's name because she has not commented publicly on her gender identity. School officials also have declined an interview request with the player. Crews' ruling referred to the athlete as an "alleged transgender" player and noted that no defendant disputed that the San Jose State roster includes a transgender woman player. San Jose State will "continue to support its student-athletes and reject discrimination in all forms," the university said in a statement, confirming that all its student-athletes are eligible to participate under NCAA and conference rules. "We are gratified that the Court rejected an eleventh-hour attempt to change those rules. Our team looks forward to competing in the Mountain West volleyball tournament this week." The conference did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment. The players filed a notice for emergency appeal with the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Crews said the players who filed the complaint could have sought relief much earlier, noting the individual universities had acknowledged that not playing their games against San Jose State this season would result in a loss in league standings. He also refused a request to re-seed the tournament without the forfeited losses. The judge said injunctions are meant to preserve the status quo. The conference policy regarding forfeiting for refusing to play against a team with a transgender player had been in effect since 2022 and the San Jose State player has been on the roster since 2022 -– making that the status quo. The player competed at the college level three previous seasons, including two for San Jose State, drawing little attention. This season's awareness of her reported identity led to an uproar among some players, pundits, parents and politicians in a major election year. Crews' ruling also said injunctions are meant to prevent harm, but in this case, he argued, the harm has already occurred. The games have been forfeited, the tournament has been seeded, the teams have made travel plans and the participants have confirmed they're playing. The tournament starts Wednesday and continues Friday and Saturday. Colorado State is seeded first and San Jose State, second. The teams split their regular-season matches and both get byes into Friday's semifinals. San Jose State will play the winner of Wednesday's match between Utah State and Boise State — teams that both forfeited matches to SJSU during the regular season. Boise State associate athletic director Chris Kutz declined to comment on whether the Broncos would play SJSU if they won their first-round tournament game. Utah State officials did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment. The conference tournament winner gets an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament. San Jose State coach Todd Kress, whose team has not competed in the national tournament since 2001, has said his team has been getting "messages of hate" and that has taken a toll on his players. Several teams refused to play against San Jose State during the season, earning losses in the official conference standings. Boise State and Wyoming each had two forfeits while Utah State and Nevada both had one. Southern Utah, a member of the Western Athletic Conference, was first to cancel against San Jose State this year. Nevada's players stated they "refuse to participate in any match that advances injustice against female athletes," without elaborating. Nevada did not qualify for the conference tournament. The nine current players and others now suing the Mountain West Conference, the California State University Board of Trustees and others include San Jose State senior setter and co-captain Brooke Slusser. The teammate Slusser says is transgender hits the volleyball with more force than others on the team, raising fear during practices of suffering concussions from a head hit, the complaint says. The Independent Council on Women's Sports is funding a separate lawsuit against the NCAA for allowing transgender women to compete in women's sports. Both lawsuits claim the landmark 1972 federal antidiscrimination law known as Title IX prohibits transgender women in women's sports. Title IX prohibits sexual discrimination in federally funded education; Slusser is a plaintiff in both lawsuits. Several circuit courts have used a U.S. Supreme Court ruling to conclude that discriminating against someone based on their transgender status or sexual orientation is sex-based discrimination, Crews wrote. That means case law does not prove the "likelihood of success" needed to grant an injunction. An NCAA policy that subjects transgender participation to the rules of sports governing bodies took effect this academic year. USA Volleyball says a trans woman must suppress testosterone for 12 months before competing. The NCAA has not flagged any issues with San Jose State. The Republican governors of Idaho, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming have made public statements in support of the team cancellations, citing fairness in women's sports. President-elect Donald Trump likewise has spoken out against allowing transgender women to compete in women's sports. Crews was a magistrate judge in Colorado's U.S. District Court for more than five years before President Joe Biden appointed him as a federal judge in January. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!

Column: Brady Corbet’s epic movie ‘The Brutalist’ came close to crashing down more than onceConcerns that elected officials in Congress are too old resurfaced over the weekend following news that retiring U.S. Rep. Kay Granger, 81, has been residing at a senior living facility, according to her son. Granger has not cast a vote since July. On Friday, the outlet The Dallas Express published an investigation into Granger’s whereabouts, reporting that Granger (R-Texas) is currently living at Tradition Senior Living in Fort Worth, which provides memory care services. Granger’s son, Brandon Granger, said that his mother is not in the memory care facility, but he said she does reside at Tradition Senior Living, according to The Dallas Morning News . The outlet also reported that her son said she has been “having some dementia issues late in the year.” Reacting to the news on Sunday, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) wrote : “Kay Granger’s long absence reveals the problem with a Congress that rewards seniority & relationships more than merit & ideas. We have a sclerotic gerontocracy.” “American gerontocracy, on both sides of the political aisle, is an absolute embarrassment,” wrote the journalist Mehdi Hasan on Saturday. The journalist Ken Klippenstein echoed these remarks. In a post on Bluesky he argued it shouldn’t be taboo for the media to point out when elected officials appear to be impaired by age. “Part of why the gerontocracy exists is because the news media is so squeamish about calling this stuff out,” he wrote. According to a breakdown from The Washington Post in 2023, the median age in Congress has been trending upward in recent decades. Last year, 48% of all members of Congress were Baby Boomers, and 19 lawmakers elected to the 118th Congress are members of the Silent Generation, meaning they were born at some point between 1928 and 1945. After the 2024 presidential race, during which President Joe Biden stepped down as the presumptive Democratic nominee following a disastrous debate performance that sparked widespread concerns that he was not fit to run, there was some reshuffling of the Democratic leadership on congressional committees which saw younger lawmakers take over. However, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), 35, was unsuccessful in her bid to be the ranking Democrat on the House Oversight Committee. She was bested by 74-year-old Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.) Pod Save America co-host Dan Pfeiffer indicated that the thinking that drove some members to favor Connolly is also what was behind Democrats’ loss of the White House on November 5. “Valuing seniority over political and messaging chops is exactly how Democrats got into this mess in the first place,” he wrote on X in mid-December.

Mumbai: Uddhav Thackeray , who played the bold gambit of taking on the ally BJP in 2019 and forged an unlikely alliance with the Congress and NCP, was on Saturday left struggling to make sense of his party's rout in the Maharashtra assembly elections . Thackeray, whose Shiv Sena (UBT) won only 20 out of the 95 seats it contested, admitted that he could not understand how the electorate which had inflicted a drubbing on the ruling BJP-led alliance in the Lok Sabha elections only five months ago changed its mind. Assembly Election Results Live Updates Maharashtra Election Results Jharkhand Election Results Bypoll Election Results From the shy son of a charismatic and firebrand Hindutva politician, the late Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray, Uddhav has come a long way. Early on, he survived challenges from party stalwart Narayan Rane and cousin Raj Thackeray, and went on to become the Maharashtra chief minister in November 2019 when he ended the decades-long alliance with the BJP after the assembly elections. Soon, the COVID-19 pandemic followed, and Uddhav easily connected with the people during that difficult period as he addressed them directly by using social media tools such as Facebook live. He came across as an affable leader who could reassure people. While his leadership during the pandemic won him praise, Uddhav Thackeray remained clueless about the simmering discontent in a big section of the party which resented the alliance with the Congress and NCP, erstwhile ideological foes. Eknath Shinde 's rebellion in June 2022 seemed to have taken him by surprise, leading to the fall of his government and a vertical split in the party. Uddhav, however, did not waver, and kept attacking the BJP, its top leadership including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and launched a tirade against the "traitors" who sided with Shinde. 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View Program Web Development Advanced C++ Mastery: OOPs and Template Techniques By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Astrology Vastu Shastra Course By - Sachenkumar Rai, Vastu Shashtri View Program His party contested 21 of the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra in the Lok Sabha elections, highest among the Maha Vikas Aghadi allies, but won a modest nine. He was then criticised for his adamant stand during the seat-sharing talks. He has also been accused of being less accessible, a charge the MLAs who rebelled against him in 2022 levelled. They also took jibes at him for working from home during his tenure as chief minister, and even his ally Sharad Pawar commented on it. On the plus side, Thackeray gained support of the sections of society, including Muslims and Dalits, which were earlier uncomfortable with the Shiv Sena. Over the years, he also developed oratory skills. His style is different from that of his father's fiery speeches, but he is equally acerbic towards his opponents. As the ruling BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP alliance won a landslide victory on Saturday, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde noted that the results settled the issue whom does the Shiv Sena belong. The challenge before 64-year-old Uddhav Thackeray, as he and his son Aaditya pick up the pieces after the rout, will be to hold on to the remaining party leaders and cadres, and prove that the Sena led by Shinde -- which has already got the official name and election symbol of Bal Thackeray's party -- is not the real thing. He will also have to answer the question whether his decision to join hands with the 'secular' Congress and Sharad Pawar-led NCP was a wise move. Assembly Election Results Live Updates Maharashtra Poll Results Highlights 2024 Jharkhand Poll Results Highlights 2024 (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )

BEIRUT (AP) — Israel's military launched airstrikes across Lebanon on Monday, unleashing explosions throughout the country and killing at least 31 while Israeli leaders appeared to be closing in on a negotiated ceasefire with the Hezbollah militant group. Israeli strikes hit commercial and residential buildings in Beirut as well as in the port city of Tyre. Military officials said they targeted areas known as Hezbollah strongholds. They issued evacuation orders for Beirut's southern suburbs, and strikes landed across the city, including meters from a Lebanese police base and the city's largest public park. The barrage came as officials indicated they were nearing agreement on a ceasefire, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu 's Security Cabinet prepared to discuss an offer on the table. Massive explosions lit up Lebanon's skies with flashes of orange, sending towering plumes of smoke into the air as Israeli airstrikes pounded Beirut’s southern suburbs Monday. The blasts damaged buildings and left shattered glass and debris scattered across nearby streets. No casualties were reported after many residents fled the targeted sites. Some of the strikes landed close to central Beirut and near Christian neighborhoods and other targets where Israel had issued evacuation warnings, including in Tyre and Nabatiyeh province. Israeli airstrikes also hit the northeast Baalbek-Hermel region without warning. Lebanon’s Health Ministry said Monday that 26 people were killed in southern Lebanon, four in the eastern Baalbek-Hermel province and one in Choueifat, a neighborhood in Beirut's southern suburbs that was not subjected to evacuation warnings on Monday. The deaths brought the total toll to 3,768 killed in Lebanon throughout 13 months of war between Israel and Hezbollah and nearly two months since Israel launched its ground invasion. Many of those killed since the start of the war between Israel and Hezbollah have been civilians , and health officials said some of the recovered bodies were so severely damaged that DNA testing would be required to confirm their identities. Israel says it has killed more than 2,000 Hezbollah members. Lebanon's Health Ministry says the war has displaced 1.2 million people. Israeli ground forces invaded southern Lebanon in early October, meeting heavy resistance in a narrow strip of land along the border. The military had previously exchanged attacks across the border with Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group that began firing rockets into Israel the day after the war in Gaza began last year. Lebanese politicians have decried the ongoing airstrikes and said they are impeding U.S.-led ceasefire negotiations. The country's deputy parliament speaker accused Israel of ramping up its bombardment in order to pressure Lebanon to make concessions in indirect ceasefire negotiations with Hezbollah. Elias Bousaab, an ally of the militant group, said Monday that the pressure has increased because “we are close to the hour that is decisive regarding reaching a ceasefire.” Israeli officials voiced similar optimism Monday about prospects for a ceasefire. Mike Herzog, the country's ambassador to Washington, earlier in the day told Israeli Army Radio that several points had yet to be finalized. Though any deal would require agreement from the government, Herzog said Israel and Hezbollah were “close to a deal." “It can happen within days,” he said. Israeli officials have said the sides are close to an agreement that would include withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon and a pullback of Hezbollah fighters from the Israeli border. But several sticking points remain. Two Israeli officials told The Associated Press that Netanyahu’s security Cabinet had scheduled a meeting for Tuesday, but they said it remained unclear whether the Cabinet would vote to approve the deal. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were discussing internal deliberations. Danny Danon, Israel’s U.N. ambassador, told reporters Monday that he expected a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah to have stages and to be discussed by leaders Monday or Tuesday. Still, he warned, “it’s not going to happen overnight.” After previous hopes for a ceasefire were dashed, U.S. officials cautioned that negotiations were not yet complete and noted that there could be last-minute hitches that either delay or destroy an agreement. "Nothing is done until everything is done," White House national security spokesman John Kirby said Monday. The proposal under discussion to end the fighting calls for an initial two-month ceasefire during which Israeli forces would withdraw from Lebanon and Hezbollah would end its armed presence along the southern border south of the Litani River. The withdrawals would be accompanied by an influx of thousands more Lebanese army troops, who have been largely sidelined in the war, to patrol the border area along with an existing U.N. peacekeeping force . Western diplomats and Israeli officials said Israel is demanding the right to strike in Lebanon if it believes Hezbollah is violating the terms. The Lebanese government has said that such an arrangement would authorize violations of the country's sovereignty. A ceasefire could mark a step toward ending the regionwide war that ballooned after Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducting another 250 . The lack of a ceasefire has emerged as a political liability for Israeli leaders including Netanyahu, particularly while 60,000 Israelis remain away from their homes in the country's north after more than a year of cross-border violence. Hezbollah rockets have reached as far south into Israel as Tel Aviv. At least 75 people have been killed, more than half of them civilians. More than 50 Israeli soldiers died fighting in the ground offensive in Lebanon. The Israeli military said about 250 projectiles were fired Sunday, with some intercepted. A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, the strongest of Iran’s armed proxies , is expected to significantly calm regional tensions that have led to fears of a direct, all-out war between Israel and Iran. It’s not clear how the ceasefire will affect the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Hezbollah had long insisted that it would not agree to a ceasefire until the war in Gaza ends, but it dropped that condition. A top Hamas official in Lebanon said the Palestinian militant group would support a ceasefire between its Lebanese ally Hezbollah and Israel, despite Hezbollah’s previous promises to stop the fighting in Lebanon only if the war in Gaza ends. “Any announcement of a ceasefire is welcome. Hezbollah has stood by our people and made significant sacrifices,” Osama Hamdan of Hamas' political wing told the Lebanese broadcaster Al-Mayadeen, which is seen as politically allied with Hezbollah. While the ceasefire proposal is expected to be approved if Netanyahu brings it to a vote in his security Cabinet, one hard-line member, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, said he would oppose it. He said on X that a deal with Lebanon would be a “big mistake” and a “missed historic opportunity to eradicate Hezbollah.” If the ceasefire talks fail, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said, “it will mean more destruction and more and more animosity and more dehumanization and more hatred and more bitterness.” Speaking at a G7 meeting in Fiuggi, Italy, the last summit of its kind before U.S. President Joe Biden leaves office, Safadi said such a failure "will doom the future of the region to more conflict and more killing and more destruction.” Federman reported from Jerusalem and Metz from Rabat, Morocco. Associated Press writers Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations, Nicole Winfield in Fiuggi, Italy, and Aamer Madhani in Washington contributed to this report. Find more of AP’s war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-warJoin Gorilla Technology's Exclusive Live Investor Webinar and Q&A Session on December 12HARARE – Zanu PF Harare Province has been rocked by internal infighting, leading to the suspension of 10 key members for allegedly fanning divisions within the party. The suspensions highlight the ongoing power struggles within the ruling party, as factionalism continues to surface ahead of the 2028 general elections. Among those suspended are prominent figures including the provincial political commissar Kudakwashe Damson, District Coordinating Committee (DCC) chairman Godwin Gomwe, and senior Youth League officials. The suspensions also target figures with close ties to Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, whose supporters have been accused of causing unrest in the party ranks. The full list of those suspended includes deputy secretary for Lands and Agriculture Edson Ringwa, deputy secretary for Science and Technology Charles Matsika, Youth League secretary for Administration Victor Manungo, Youth League deputy secretary for Information and Publicity Denzel Romol, Youth League secretary for Economic Development and Empowerment Lameck Chimanyiwa, and Youth League deputy secretary for Science and Technology Blessing Kambumu. Additionally, DCC 2 Secretary for Gender and Culture Karen Maingahama and DCC 2 Secretary for Economic Affairs Spencer Mutero were also handed suspension orders. The suspensions come at a time when tensions within the party are reportedly escalating, with factions loyal to Vice President Chiwenga clashing with those aligned to President Emmerson Mnangagwa. These divisions appear to be driven by jockeying for power within Zanu PF as Mnangagwa’s current term nears its end. In a statement following the suspensions, Zanu PF Harare provincial vice chairman Ephraim Fundukwa issued a stern warning against indiscipline within the party. Fundukwa reiterated that all party members must adhere to party rules and work towards unity, urging those suspended to refrain from actions that undermine the party’s cohesion. The internal strife within Zanu PF is a growing concern as the party prepares for the next general elections. The suspensions reflect the deepening rifts between factions within the party and the growing influence of rival groups vying for political supremacy.

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WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Attorneys for Fox Corp. asked a Delaware judge Friday to dismiss a shareholder lawsuit seeking to hold current and former company officials personally liable for the financial fallout stemming from Fox News reports regarding alleged vote rigging in the 2020 election. Five New York City public employee pension funds, along with Oregon’s public employee retirement fund, allege that former chairman Rupert Murdoch and other Fox Corp. leaders deliberately turned a blind eye to liability risks posed by reporting false claims of vote rigging by election technology companies Dominion Voting Systems and Smartmatic USA. Smartmatic is suing Fox News for defamation in New York, alleging damages of $2.7 billion. It recently settled a lawsuit in the District of Columbia against One America News Network, another conservative outlet, over reports of vote fraud. Dominion also filed several defamation lawsuits against those who spread conspiracy theories blaming its election equipment for Donald Trump’s loss in 2020. Last year, Fox News settled a defamation lawsuit filed by Dominion in Delaware for $787 million. The shareholder plaintiffs also allege that Fox corporate leaders ignored “red flags” about liability arising from a 2017 report suggesting that Seth Rich, a Democratic National Committee staffer, may have been killed because he had leaked Democratic party emails to Wikileaks during the 2016 presidential campaign. Rich, 27, was shot in 2016 in Washington, D.C., in what authorities have said was an attempted robbery. Fox News retracted the Seth Rich story a week after its initial broadcast, but Rich’s parents sued the network for falsely portraying their son as a criminal and traitor. Fox News settled the lawsuit in 2020 for “millions of dollars,” shortly before program hosts Lou Dobbs and Sean Hannity were to be deposed, according to the shareholder lawsuit. Joel Friedlander, an attorney for the institutional shareholders, argued that Fox officials waited until the company’s reporting about Rich became a national scandal before addressing the issue. Similarly, according to the shareholders, corporate officials, including Rupert Murdoch and his son, CEO Lachlan Murdoch, allowed Fox News to continue broadcasting false narratives about the 2020 election, despite internal communications suggesting that they knew there was no evidence to support the conspiracy theories. “The Murdochs could have minimized future monetary exposure, but they chose not to,” Friedlander said. Instead, he argued, they engaged in “bad-faith decision making” with other defendants in a profit-driven effort to retain viewers and remain in Trump’s good graces. “Decisions were made at the highest level to promote pro-Trump conspiracy theories without editorial control,” Friedlander said. Defense attorneys argue that the case should be dismissed because the plaintiffs filed their lawsuit without first demanding that the Fox Corp. board take action, as required under Delaware law. They say the plaintiffs also failed to demonstrate that a pre-suit demand on the Fox board would have been futile because at least half of the directors face a substantial likelihood of liability or are not independent of someone who does. Beyond the “demand futility” issue, defense attorneys also argue that allegations that Fox officials breached their fiduciary duties fail to meet the pleading standards under Delaware and therefore should be dismissed. Defense attorney William Savitt argued, for example, that neither the Rich settlement, which he described as “immaterial,” nor the allegedly defamatory statements about Dominion and Smartmatic constitute red flags putting directors on notice about the risk of defamation liability. Nor do they demonstrate that directors acted in bad faith or that Fox “utterly failed” to implement and monitor a system to report and mitigate legal risks, including defamation liability risk, according to the defendants. Savitt noted that the Rich article was promptly retracted, and that the settlement included no admission of liability. The Dominion and Smartmatic statements, meanwhile, gave rise themselves to the currently liability issues and therefore can not serve as red flags about future liability risks, according to the defendants. “A ‘red flag’ must be what the term commonly implies — warning of a risk of a liability-causing event that allows the directors to take action to avert the event, not notice that a liability-causing event has already occurred,” defense attorneys wrote in their motion to dismiss. Defense attorneys also say there are no factual allegations to support claims that Fox officials condoned illegal conduct in pursuit of corporate profits, or that they deliberately ignored their oversight responsibilities. They note that a “bad outcome” is not sufficient to demonstrate “bad faith.” Vice Chancellor J. Travis Laster is expected to rule within 90 days. Randall Chase, The Associated PressNone

Manhattan police have obtained a warrant for the arrest of 26-year-old Luigi Nicholas Mangione , suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson . Mangione was arrested at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, while carrying a gun, mask and writings linking him to the ambush. Mangione is being held without bail in Pennsylvania on charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm, forgery and providing false identification to police. Late Monday, Manhattan prosecutors charged him with five counts, including murder, criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a forged instrument. Here's the latest: White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre says “violence to combat any sort of corporate greed is unacceptable” and the White House will “continue to condemn any form of violence.” She declined to comment on the investigation into the Dec. 4 shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson or reports that writings belonging to the suspect, Luigi Mangione, said insurance companies care more about profits than their customers. “This is horrific,” Jean-Pierre said of the fatal shooting of Thompson as he walked in Manhattan. He didn’t appear to say anything as deputies led him to a waiting car outside. “I’m deeply grateful to the men and women of law enforcement whose efforts to solve the horrific murder of Brian Thompson led to the arrest of a suspect in Pennsylvania,” Gov. Hochul said in the statement. “I am coordinating with the District Attorney’s Office and will sign a request for a governor’s warrant to ensure this individual is tried and held accountable. Public safety is my top priority and I’ll do everything in my power to keep the streets of New York safe.” That’s according to a spokesperson for the governor who said Gov. Hochul will do it as soon as possible. Luigi Nicholas Mangione, the suspect in the fatal shooting of a healthcare executive in New York City, apparently was living a charmed life: the grandson of a wealthy real estate developer, valedictorian of his elite Baltimore prep school and with degrees from one of the nation’s top private universities. Friends at an exclusive co-living space at the edge of touristy Waikiki in Hawaii where the 26-year-old Mangione once lived widely considered him a “great guy,” and pictures on his social media accounts show a fit, smiling, handsome young man on beaches and at parties. Now, investigators in New York and Pennsylvania are working to piece together why Mangione may have diverged from this path to make the violent and radical decision to gun down UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in a brazen attack on a Manhattan street. The killing sparked widespread discussions about corporate greed, unfairness in the medical insurance industry and even inspired folk-hero sentiment toward his killer. ▶ Read more about Luigi Mangione Peter Weeks, the Blair County district attorney, says he’ll work with New York officials to try to return suspect Luigi Mangione there to face charges. Weeks said the New York charges are “more serious” than in Blair County. “We believe their charges take precedent,” Weeks said, promising to do what’s needed to accommodate New York’s prosecution first. Weeks spoke to reporters after a brief hearing at which a defense lawyer said Mangione will fight extradition. The defense asked for a hearing on the issue. In the meantime, Mangione will be detained at a state prison in western Pennsylvania. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office said Tuesday it will seek a Governor’s warrant to secure Mangione’s extradition to Manhattan. Under state law, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul can issue a warrant of arrest demanding Mangione’s return to the state. Such a warrant must recite the facts necessary to the validity of its issuance and be sealed with the state seal. It would then be presented to law enforcement in Pennsylvania to expedite Mangione’s return to New York. But Blair County District Attorney Peter Weeks says it won’t be a substantial barrier to returning Mangione to New York. He noted that defendants contest extradition “all the time,” including in simple retail theft cases. Dickey, his defense lawyer, questioned whether the second-degree murder charge filed in New York might be eligible for bail under Pennsylvania law, but prosecutors raised concerns about both public safety and Mangione being a potential flight risk, and the judge denied it. Mangione will continue to be housed at a state prison in Huntingdon. He has 14 days to challenge the detention. Prosecutors, meanwhile, have a month to seek a governor’s warrant out of New York. Mangione, wearing an orange jumpsuit, mostly stared straight ahead at the hearing, occasionally consulting papers, rocking in his chair, or looking back at the gallery. At one point, he began to speak to respond to the court discussion, but was quieted by his lawyer. Luigi Mangione, 26, has also been denied bail at a brief court hearing in western Pennsylvania. He has 14 days to challenge the bail decision. That’s with some intervention from owner Elon Musk. The account, which hasn’t posted since June, was briefly suspended by X. But after a user inquired about it in a post Monday, Musk responded “This happened without my knowledge. Looking into it.” The account was later reinstated. Other social media companies such as Meta have removed his accounts. According to X rules, the platform removes “any accounts maintained by individual perpetrators of terrorist, violent extremist, or mass violent attacks, as well as any accounts glorifying the perpetrator(s), or dedicated to sharing manifestos and/or third party links where related content is hosted.” Mangione is not accused of perpetrating a terrorist or mass attack — he has been charged with murder — and his account doesn’t appear to share any writings about the case. He shouted something that was partly unintelligible, but referred to an “insult to the intelligence of the American people.” He’s there for an arraignment on local charges stemming from his arrest Monday. He was dressed in an orange jumpsuit as officers led him from a vehicle into the courthouse. Local defense lawyer Thomas Dickey is expected to represent the 26-year-old at a Tuesday afternoon hearing at the Blair County Courthouse. Dickey declined comment before the hearing. Mangione could have the Pennsylvania charges read aloud to him and may be asked to enter a plea. They include possession of an unlicensed firearm, forgery and providing false identification to police. In New York, he was charged late Monday with murder in the death of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO Brian Thompson. Mangione likely was motivated by his anger with what he called “parasitic” health insurance companies and a disdain with corporate greed, said a a law enforcement bulletin obtained by The Associated Press. He wrote that the U.S. has the most expensive healthcare system in the world and that the profits of major corporations continue to rise while “our life expectancy” does not, according to the bulletin, based on a review of the suspect’s hand-written notes and social media postings. He appeared to view the targeted killing of the UnitedHealthcare CEO as a symbolic takedown, asserting in his note that he is the “first to face it with such brutal honesty,” the bulletin said. Mangione called “Unabomber” Ted Kaczynski a “political revolutionary” and may have found inspiration from the man who carried out a series of bombings while railing against modern society and technology, the document said. A felony warrant filed in New York cites Altoona Officer Christy Wasser as saying she found the writings along with a semi-automatic pistol and an apparent silencer. The filing echoes earlier statements from NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny who said Mangione had a three-page, handwritten document that shows “some ill will toward corporate America.” Mangione is now charged in Pennsylvania with being a fugitive of justice. A customer at the McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, where Mangione was arrested said one of his friends had commented beforehand that the man looked like the suspect wanted for the shooting in New York City. “It started out almost a little bit like a joke, my one friend thought he looked like the shooter,” said the customer, who declined to give his full name, on Tuesday. “It wasn’t really a joke, but we laughed about it,” he added. The warrant on murder and other charges is a step that could help expedite his extradition from Pennsylvania. In court papers made public Tuesday, a New York City police detective reiterated key findings in the investigation he said tied Mangione to the killing, including surveillance footage and a fake ID he used to check into a Manhattan hostel on Nov. 24. Police officers in Altoona, Pennsylvania, found that ID when they arrested Mangione on Monday. Mangione is being held without bail in Pennsylvania on charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm, forgery and providing false identification to police. Late Monday, Manhattan prosecutors charged him with five counts, including murder, criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a forged instrument. Mangione doesn’t yet have a lawyer who can speak on his behalf, court officials said. Images of Mangione released Tuesday by Pennsylvania State Police showed him pulling down his mask in the corner of the McDonald’s while holding what appeared to be hash browns and wearing a winter jacket and ski cap. In another photo from a holding cell, he stood unsmiling with rumpled hair. Mangione’s cousin, Maryland lawmaker Nino Mangione, announced Tuesday morning that he’s postponing a fundraiser planned later this week at the Hayfields Country Club north of Baltimore, which was purchased by the Mangione family in 1986. “Because of the nature of this terrible situation involving my Cousin I do not believe it is appropriate to hold my fundraising event scheduled for this Thursday at Hayfields,” Nino Mangione said in a social media post. “I want to thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and support. My family and I are heartbroken and ask that you remember the family of Mr. Thompson in your prayers. Thank you.” Officers used New York City’s muscular surveillance system . Investigators analyzed DNA samples, fingerprints and internet addresses. Police went door to door looking for witnesses. When an arrest came five days later , those sprawling investigative efforts shared credit with an alert civilian’s instincts. A customer at a McDonald’s restaurant in Pennsylvania noticed another patron who resembled the man in the oblique security-camera photos New York police had publicized. He remains jailed in Pennsylvania, where he was initially charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm, forgery and providing false identification to police. By late Monday evening, prosecutors in Manhattan had added a charge of murder, according to an online court docket. It’s unclear whether Luigi Nicholas Mangione has an attorney who can comment on the allegations. Asked at Monday’s arraignment whether he needed a public defender, Mangione asked whether he could “answer that at a future date.”

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hand 777 slot As they left the clinic, the sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the city skyline. Zhang Meng and Xiao Wu walked side by side, their shadows merging into one, a symbol of their unbreakable bond and shared journey. The evening air was filled with laughter and chatter, a symphony of joy and contentment that seemed to envelop them in a bubble of happiness.

As Syria embarks on a new chapter in its history, the lessons of the Assad regime's downfall must not be forgotten. The road to true democracy and stability lies in listening to the voices of the people, upholding the rule of law, and fostering a society where accountability and transparency are paramount. Only then can the wounds of the past be healed, and a brighter future built for the people of Syria.

After a brief delay, during which the VAR officials reviewed the incident from various angles, it seemed evident that Boly-Gadbadjere had been fouled inside the penalty area. Fans held their breath, waiting for the on-field referee to make the correct call and point to the spot. However, to the disbelief of many, the referee stood by his initial decision and signaled for play to continue.

New chief executive of NHS trust that serves St Helens takes reinsOverall, the recent developments in stock margin trading, including the extension of loan terms, increase in the maximum financing ratio, and introduction of specialized loans for stock buybacks, have collectively contributed to the optimization of the stock margin trading landscape. These improvements offer investors greater flexibility, higher leverage, and targeted financial solutions, empowering them to make more informed and strategic investment decisions. As stock margin trading continues to evolve, these enhancements will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of investment practices and fostering a more efficient and effective market environment.

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As the NBA season progresses and teams compete for a spot in the playoffs, the focus on player health, workload management, and team dynamics becomes increasingly crucial. Coaches, medical staff, and front office executives must work together to ensure that players are given the necessary rest, recovery, and support to perform at their best. The example set by players like Nikola Jokic in showcasing both exceptional talent and selflessness serves as a reminder of the importance of teamwork, leadership, and sacrifice in achieving success on and off the court.

Title: Little Brother: Inviting Guardiola to Girona, But He's Unlikely to Come; Van de Beek Unlucky at Manchester UnitedFanyu Yuan, the prominent figure behind Lingxi Interactive Entertainment, has been emphasizing the importance of Alibaba's culture in shaping the company's strategy and operations. This cultural orientation towards e-commerce, technology, and data-driven decision-making may raise questions about its compatibility with fostering creative and original game content.

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Despite the difficult situation Benevento finds themselves in, there is still hope that they can turn things around. With a talented squad and an experienced coach at the helm, there is potential for improvement in the second half of the season. However, time is of the essence, and Benevento must act swiftly to avoid the looming threat of relegation.

The recent incident of a budget day trip for seniors, promising a full day of activities for only 9.9 yuan, has once again highlighted the dangers of falling into low-cost traps. In the morning, the elderly participants were promised a day of learning and entertainment, but by the afternoon, they found themselves stranded on the side of the road, abandoned by the organizers. This shocking turn of events serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with seemingly irresistible deals and the importance of being vigilant when it comes to accepting such offers.

In addition, by strengthening their personal pension business marketing, commercial banks can differentiate themselves in a competitive market environment. As more financial institutions enter the personal pension sector, banks need to develop unique value propositions and innovative marketing strategies to attract and retain customers. By leveraging digital technologies, data analytics, and personalized services, banks can create a compelling and engaging customer experience that sets them apart from their competitors.Giannis Antetokounmpo returns for Bucks after missing 1 game with knee swellingEarly voting for the Dec. 7 election begins Friday. See what's at stake in Baton Rouge.

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hand777 login register As Lawmakers Vow to Protect ‘California Values,’ New Los Angeles County Chair Calls for Bipartisan ApproachGeorge Kresge Jr., who wowed talk show audiences as the The Amazing Kreskin, diesNEW ORLEANS — A scruffy little fugitive is on the lam again in New Orleans, gaining fame as he outwits a tenacious band of citizens armed with night-vision binoculars, nets and a tranquilizer rifle. Scrim, a 17-pound mutt that's mostly terrier, has become a folk hero, inspiring tattoos, T-shirts and even a ballad as he eludes capture from the posse of volunteers. And like any antihero, Scrim has a backstory: Rescued from semi-feral life at a trailer park and adopted from a shelter, the dog broke loose in April and scurried around the city until he was cornered in October and brought to a new home. Weeks later, he'd had enough. Scrim leaped out of a second-story window, a desperate act recorded in a now-viral video. Since then, despite a stream of daily sightings, he's roamed free. People are also reading... Nebraska transportation director: Expressway system won't be done until 2042 Spreading kindness one butterfly at a time At the courthouse, Dec. 7, 2024 Camper total loss after fire north of Beatrice 27-year-old Beatrice man sentenced for May assault Stabler scores 22 in Lady O's season opening win BPS receives a "good" classification Holiday lights travel through downtown Beatrice for annual parade Orangemen open season with win over Nebraska City P.E.O. sponsors Holiday Tour of Homes Missouri man sentenced for attempted sexual assault At the courthouse, Nov. 30, 2024 Community Players open holiday play Lonnie Meyer Amie Just: This recruiting class marks the beginning of a new era — one without walk-ons The dog’s fans include Myra and Steve Foster, who wrote “Ode to Scrim” to the tune of Ricky Nelson’s 1961 hit, “I’m a Travelin’ Man.” Michelle Cheramie, founder of Zeus' Rescues, at her office in New Orleans on Dec. 9 with a whiteboard index of sheltered cats and dogs and a Scrim look-alike recuperating in the background. Leading the recapture effort is Michelle Cheramie, a 55-year-old former information technology professional. She lost everything — home, car, possessions — in Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and in the aftermath, found her calling rescuing pets. “I was like, ‘This is what I should be doing,’” Cheramie said. “I was born to rescue.” She launched Zeus’ Rescues, a nonprofit shelter that now averages 600 cat and dog adoptions a year and offers free pet food to anyone who needs it. She helped Scrim find the home he first escaped from. It was Cheramie's window Scrim leaped from in November. She's resumed her relentless mission since then, posting flyers on telephone poles and logging social media updates on his reported whereabouts. She's invested thousands of dollars on wildlife cameras, thermal sensors and other gear. She took a course offered by the San Diego Zoo on the finer points of tranquilizing animals. And she's developed a network of volunteers — the kind of neighbors who are willing to grid-search a city at 3 a.m. Scrim on Oct. 24 at the Metairie Small Animal Hospital in Metairie, La. People like writer David W. Brown, who manages a crowd-sourced Google Map of all known Scrim sightings. He says the search galvanized residents from all walks of life to come together. As they search for Scrim, they hand out supplies to people in need. “Being a member of the community is seeing problems and doing what you can to make life a little better for the people around here and the animals around you,” Brown said. Neighbor Tammy Murray had to close her furniture store and lost her father to Parkinson's disease. This search, she says, got her mojo back. “Literally, for months, I’ve done nothing but hunt this dog,” said Murray, 53. “I feel like Wile E. Coyote on a daily basis with him.” Murray drives the Zeus' Rescues van toward reported Scrim sightings. She also handles a tactical net launcher, which looks like an oversized flashlight and once misfired, shattering the van's window as Scrim sped away. After realizing Scrim came to recognize the sound of the van's diesel engine, Murray switched to a Vespa scooter for stealth. Michelle Cheramie, director of Zeus' Rescues, left, walks with Scrim on Oct. 24 at the Metairie Small Animal Hospital in Metairie, La. Near-misses have been tantalizing. The search party spotted Scrim napping beneath an elevated house, and wrapped construction netting around the perimeter, but an over-eager volunteer broke ranks and dashed forward, leaving an opening Scrim slipped through. Scrim's repeated escapades prompted near-daily local media coverage and a devoted online following. Cheramie can relate. “We’re all running from something or to something," she said. "He's doing that, too.” Cheramie's team dreams of placing the pooch in a safe and loving environment. But a social media chorus growing under the hashtag #FreeScrim has other ideas — they say the runaway should be allowed a life of self-determination. The animal rescue volunteers consider that misguided. “The streets of New Orleans are not the place for a dog to be free,” Cheramie said. “It’s too dangerous.” Scrim rests in a kennel Oct. 24 at the Metairie Small Animal Hospital in Metairie, La. Scrim was a mess when Cheramie briefly recaptured him in October, with matted fur, missing teeth and a tattered ear. His trembling body was scraped and bruised, and punctured by projectiles. A vet removed one, but decided against operating to take out a possible bullet. The dog initially appeared content indoors, sitting in Cheramie's lap or napping beside her bed. Then while she was out one day, Scrim chewed through a mesh screen, dropped 13 feet to the ground and squeezed through a gap in the fence, trotting away. Murray said Cheramie's four cats probably spooked him. Cheramie thinks they may have gotten territorial. Devastated but undeterred, the pair is reassessing where Scrim might fit best — maybe a secure animal sanctuary with big outdoor spaces where other dogs can keep him company. Somewhere, Murray says, “where he can just breathe and be.” A fugitive gains fame in New Orleans eluding dart guns and nets Scrim sits in the arms of Zoey Ponder on Oct. 24 at Metairie Small Animal Hospital in Metairie. Scrim at the Terrebonne Parish Animal Shelter in Louisiana. A Scrim sticker for sale Dec. 9 at Zeus' Rescues office to raise money for the shelter in New Orleans. A homemade portrait of Scrim hangs Dec. 9 in the Zeus' Rescues shelter in New Orleans. Scrim spends some time outside Oct. 24 with Michelle Cheramie, director of Zeus' Rescues, in a fenced-in area at Metairie Small Animal Hospital in Metairie. Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly!

Police fire tear gas as thousands supporting former prime minister Khan arrive near Pakistani capital

FALLS CHURCH, Va., Dec. 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) announced today that its board of directors has authorized an additional $3 billion for the repurchase of the company's common stock, increasing the outstanding authorized amount to approximately $4.2 billion. Share repurchases will take place from time to time, subject to market conditions and management's discretion, in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions. Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with the capabilities they need to connect and protect the world, and push the boundaries of human exploration across the universe. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our employees define possible every day. Note: Statements in this press release contain or may contain statements that constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “may,” “could,” “should,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “believe,” “estimate,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “trends,” “goals” and similar expressions generally identify these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date when made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements after the date of this release, except as required by applicable law. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and inherently involve a wide range of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. A discussion of these risks and uncertainties is contained in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Contact: Todd Ernst 703-280-4535 todd.ernst@ngc.com newsbureau@ngc.com This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.Why one MP thinks Preston could merge with Pendle as part of radical council overhaul

FORMER Vice-President, Cde Phelekezela Mphoko, died in India yesterday afternoon at the age of 84 while receiving medical treatment. Acknowledging his dedicated contributions to Zimbabwe’s liberation and growth, the Zanu-PF Politburo promptly honoured him by declaring him a national hero. He is survived by wife, Laurinda, three children, Sikhumbuzo, Siduduzo and Siqokoqela, as well as several grandchildren. Family member Velile Mphoko said the former Vice-President’s wife and children were in Dubai and preparing to fly back home. “Senior family members have instructed us not to allow anyone into the house,” he told Saturday Chronicle at the Mphoko family home in Douglasdale suburb, Bulawayo, yesterday evening. President Mnangagwa expressed deep grief and sadness at the passing of the former Vice-President. “A veteran of our Liberation Struggle, Cde Mphoko’s political and military history coincides with the early days of militant nationalism against white settler colonialism, which later morphed into the armed Liberation Struggle. He was among its early architects, brave fighters, and formative commanders,” said President Mnangagwa. The President stressed that the national hero’s contribution to the liberation struggle can hardly be overstated. “Trained in many countries, including in the then Soviet Union, Cde Mphoko specialised in logistics, an onerous and sensitive responsibility which ensured huge consignments of assortments of arms of war were moved to different bases in the rear, and the war front inside the country in order to maintain the momentum of the Armed Liberation Struggle and to exert ever-mounting pressure on the settler regime until final victory. “A versatile cadre, Cde Mphoko would later join Zapu’s liaison department, a role which took him to Maputo, Mozambique, where the then Zanu was headquartered. We worked very closely with him, laying the groundwork and anticipating the eventual convergence of the two liberation movements into the Patriotic Front,” said President Mnangagwa. He noted that Cde Mphoko’s latter career as an ambassador was moulded by his early exposure to diplomacy during the liberation struggle. “It was an illustrious career which peaked with his appointment as Zimbabwe’s ambassador to various key countries, including the Russian Federation. On behalf of the Party Zanu-PF, Government, my family, and on my behalf, I wish to express my deepest, heartfelt condolences to the Mphoko family, especially to Mrs Mphoko and the children, on this their saddest loss,” said the President. In recognition of Cde Mphoko’s meritorious role of service to his country, the former Vice -President has been declared a national hero. “The Zanu-PF Politburo has unanimously decided and agreed to celebrate and immortalise his life of sacrifice by according him the status of National Hero. May his dear soul rest in eternal peace.” Cde Mphoko was appointed Vice-President in 2014, replacing Cde John Landa Nkomo, who died in 2013. Cde Mphoko was born on June 11, 1940, at Gwizane in Bubi District, Matabeleland North. The former Vice-President was arrested in 1963 for political violence after lashing out at a Rhodesian police officer who had set his dog on him and fellow youths. He was sentenced to three years in jail and sent to Khami Prison. He was a delegate at the Cold Comfort Farm People’s Caretaker Council Congress in the same year. The Congress created a Special Affairs Department and decided on an external wing of Zapu that would plan and direct the armed struggle. Under the Special Affairs programme, Cde Mphoko, along with Albert Nxele, Walter Mbambo, and Sam Dumaza Mpofu, was selected by Zapu leader Cde Joshua Nkomo to go for military training. On April 4, 1964, while awaiting a retrial, Cde Mphoko left Zimbabwe as part of a group of six and received military training in the Soviet Union between May 1964 and February 1965. In March 1965, he created the first military command structure, the Military Planning Committee, to plan and direct the armed struggle. He was one of the first seven commanders commissioned by the revolution and the political leadership to recruit, train, and command Zimbabweans into a revolution for the liberation of Zimbabwe. In 1967, he became a member of the Joint Military Command in charge of Logistics and Supply in the ANC/Zapu Alliance. He commanded the Joint Military rehearsals for the Wankie operations at Dan Nang base, Luthuli Camp, which included South African freedom fighters Joe Modise and Chris Hani, who was the commander of the Detachment, among others. In 1967 and 1968, he operated in Sipolilo (now Guruve) together with Modise, Abraham Nkiwane, Dumiso Dabengwa and others. In 1976, he was a delegate at the formation of the Patriotic Front in Maputo, Mozambique, with Jason Ziyaphapha Moyo, George Silundika, and Joseph Msika. In 1977, Cde Mphoko attended the OAU Adhoc Committee of Foreign Ministers in Luanda, Angola, with Cdes Msika and Silundika. In 1979, he attended the Lancaster House Peace Talks as a military delegate. In 1980, Cde Mphoko was appointed as a Special Envoy for Dr Joshua Nkomo to President Samora Machel of Mozambique, King Sobhuza II of Swaziland, Chief Leabuwa Jonathan of Lesotho, President Fidel Castro of Cuba, and Eric Honneker of the German Democratic Republic. He served in the sub-committee that designed the national flag of the new Republic of Zimbabwe. In 1981, Cde Mphoko worked in the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare as Deputy Director for Demobilisation. In 1987, he was transferred to the diplomatic service, with junior stints in Mozambique as Liaison Officer, and in 1996, he was appointed Liaison Officer to Austria, also covering the United Nations Drug Control Programme and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation. In 2002, he was appointed Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Botswana, before becoming Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation. Zvamaida Murwira and Remember Deketeke PRESIDENT Mnangagwa, who is also Chancellor of all State universities, yesterday capped 3 320 graduates from the Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU), with the institution saying it will start producing bio-methane gas as part of its contribution to address the energy gap that has affected the country owing to the El [...] Patrick Chitumba, AFTER successfully hosting the inaugural SADC Regional Construction Summit, Zimbabwe Building Contractors Association (ZBCA) president, Dr Tinashe Manzungu, has revealed ambitious plans for the sector to establish itself as a major player in the region. This vision aligns with the industry’s broader objective of bolstering Zimbabwe’s economic growth and development. Zimbabwe’s construction [...] Ashley Phiri, DEPUTY Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology, and Bubi Member of Parliament, Simelisizwe Sibanda, has stressed the urgent need for collective action to address the ongoing HIV/Aids crisis. Speaking at the Matabeleland North World Aids Day commemorations, themed “Take the Rights Path — my health, my rights, our [...]

ph777 online game DUP ministers Peter Robinson and Nigel Dodds were sanctioned in 2000 by Stormont’s leaders over their plan to disrupt the powersharing Executive. Minutes of an Executive meeting from June of that year state further action would be considered “as appropriate” if the DUP went ahead with a threat to rotate its ministers. The minutes are within files which have been declassified at the Public Record Office in Belfast. Devolved powersharing had been restored to Northern Ireland in May 2000 when Ulster Unionist leader David Trimble had received the backing of his party to go back into the Assembly, despite there having been no decommissioning of IRA arms at that point. Then DUP deputy leader Mr Robinson and Mr Dodds took up the offices as ministers for regional development and social development, but refused to attend Executive meetings due to the presence of Sinn Fein ministers. The party also said it would rotate its ministerial posts to prevent other parties from taking them. A minute of an Executive meeting on June 8 said Mr Robinson and Mr Dodds had refused a request from First Minister Mr Trimble and deputy First Minister Seamus Mallon to meet with them “to discuss recent public comments by the DUP concerning their positions as ministers”. The minute records that the Executive endorsed a proposal from the First and deputy First Ministers to write again to the two DUP ministers setting out sanctions against them. It says: “The First Minister and and Deputy First Minister would assume responsibility for representing the Executive Committee on transport matters at the British-Irish Council in place of the Minister for Regional Development. “The Minister for Social Development and the Minister for Regional Development would not be nominated to attend meetings of the Joint Ministerial Committee. “Pending the receipt of satisfactory assurances from DUP Ministers regarding the confidentiality and integrity of Executive Committee business, the Minister for Social Development and Minister for Regional Development would not receive Executive Committee papers as of right. “The First Minister and Deputy First Minister would seek briefing, as appropriate, from officials in the Department for Regional Development and Department for Social Development.” The minute continues: “If the DUP carried out their threat to change the holders of the two Ministerial offices on a frequent basis, the Executive Committee would consider other action as appropriate.” Mr Robinson and Mr Dodds resigned as ministers on June 27 and were replaced by party colleagues Gregory Campbell and Maurice Morrow. A minute from an Executive meeting that day says: “The Executive Committee noted that the Minister for Social Development and Minister for Regional Development would be resigning their posts that afternoon, and expressed concern at the proposed rotation of the ministries held by their Party Members.”President-elect Trump wants to again rename North America’s tallest peakA wild first season of the expanded Big 12 is down to what should be a chaotic final weekend. Through all the upsets, unexpected rises and falls, there are nine teams still in the mix to play in the conference championship game. No. 14 Arizona State and No. 17 Iowa State have the best odds, yet a multitude of scenarios could play out — 256 to be exact. There's even the possibility of an eight-team tie. It may take a mathematician to figure out which teams are in the Dec. 7 game in Arlington, Texas — even for the ones who win. Travis Hunter, Colorado. The Buffaloes' two-way star has excelled on both sides of the field, making him one of the favorites to win the Heisman Trophy. Cam Skattebo, Arizona State. The senior running back can do a little of everything, but excels at punishing would-be tacklers. He's one of the nation's leaders in yards after contact and the focal point of the Sun Devils' offense. Shadeur Sanders, Colorado. If it weren't for Hunter, Sanders might be the Heisman favorite. The son of coach Deion Sanders, Shedeur is fifth nationally with 3,488 yards passing and has been a big part of the Buffaloes' turnaround. DJ Giddens, Kansas State. The Wildcats' running back is one of the nation's most versatile players. He is ninth nationally with 1,271 rushing yards and has added 21 receptions for 258 yards. Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona. The Wildcats have struggled this season, but McMillan has not. He is third nationally with 1,251 receiving yards with seven touchdowns on 78 catches. Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech. The Red Raiders' junior linebacker leads the Big 12 with 68 tackles, averaging 10.2 per game. He also has four sacks. Brendan Mott, Kansas State. He's a menace to opposing quarterbacks, leading the Big 12 with 8 1/2 sacks. The Big 12 has nine teams already bowl eligible and two more a win away. The winner of the Big 12 championship game will be in the mix for a College Football Playoff spot. Arizona State, Iowa State, No. 19 BYU, Colorado, Kansas State, Baylor, TCU, Texas Tech and West Virginia have already clinched bowl berths. Kansas and Cincinnati can get into the postseason with wins this weekend. Gus Malzahn, UCF. Despite successes in recruiting, the Knights are 10-14 in two seasons since moving to the Big 12. Maybe not enough to get shown the door this year, but another mediocre season could lead UCF to make a change. Kyle Whittingham, Utah. Whittingham was one of the Pac-12's best coaches, leading the Utes to consecutive conference titles. Utah was expected to contend for the Big 12 title its first year in the league, but enters the final weekend 1-7 in conference play, which could push Whittingham toward retirement since it's doubtful he'd be fired. Neal Brown, West Virginia. The Mountaineers' coach was in a precarious spot at the end of last season and West Virginia hasn't lived up to expectations this season. The Mountaineers are eligible to go to a bowl game for the second straight season, but Brown could be on the hot seat even after signing a contract extension before the season. Josiah Trotter, West Virginia. The redshirt freshman is the latest Trotter to have success at the linebacker position, following the footsteps of his father, former Philadelphia Eagles player Jeremiah Trotter, and brother Jeremiah Trotter Jr., a current Eagles linebacker. Sam Leavitt, Arizona State. The Michigan State transfer has been just what the Sun Devils' needed: an agile quarterback who extends plays with his legs and rarely makes bad decisions. Bryson Washington, Baylor. The Bears' running back has rushed for 812 yards — 196 against TCU — and 10 TDs. TCU has the Big 12's highest rated 2025 recruiting class with six four-star players among 26 commitments, according to the 247 Sports composite. Receiver Terry Shelton of Carrollton, Texas, is the highest-rated recruit at 71st nationally. Baylor is next with five five-star players among its 20 commitments, including running back Michael Turner, rated 13th at his position out of North Richland Hills, Texas. Texas Tech is ranked seventh in the Big 12, but has four four-star recruits. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

A stroke changed a teacher’s life. How a new electrical device is helping her move

DUP minister rejected suggestion licensing laws could be relaxed for jubilee

Stormont minister Maurice Morrow told an official he would not raise the issue with the Northern Ireland Executive, despite similar measures being considered in England and Wales. A file on planning arrangements for the jubilee celebrations reveals a series of civil service correspondences on how Northern Ireland would mark the occasion. It includes a letter sent on January 11 2001 from an official in the Office of the First Minister/Deputy First Minister (OFMDFM) to the Department of Social Development, advising that a committee had been set up in London to consider a programme of celebrations. The correspondence says: “One of the issues the committee is currently considering is the possibility of deregulating liquor licensing laws during the golden jubilee celebrations on the same lines as the arrangements made for the millennium. “It is felt that the golden jubilee bank holiday on Monday 3 June 2002 is likely to be an occasion on which many public houses and similar licensed premises would wish to stay open beyond normal closing time.” The letter said a paper had been prepared on the issue of extending opening hours. It adds: “You will note that paragraph seven of the paper indicates that the devolved administrations ‘would need to consider deregulation separately within their own jurisdictions’. “I thought that you would wish to be aware that this issue is receiving active consideration for England and Wales and to consider whether anything needs to be done for Northern Ireland.” Some months later a “progress report” was sent between officials in OFMDFM, which again raised the issue of licensing laws. It says: “I spoke to Gordon Gibson, DSD, about Terry Smith’s letter of 12 January 2001 about licensing laws: the matter was put to their minister Maurice Morrow (DUP) who indicated that he would not be asking the NIE (Northern Ireland Executive) to approve any change to current licensing laws in NI to allow for either 24 hour opening (as at the millennium) nor a blanket approval for extended opening hours as is being considered in GB. “In both cases, primary legislation would be required here and would necessitate consultation and the minister has ruled out any consultation process.” The correspondence says individual licensees could still apply for an extension to opening hours on an ad hoc basis, adding “there the matter rests”. It goes on: “DSD await further pronouncements from the Home Office and Gibson and I have agreed to notify each other of any developments we become aware of and he will copy me to any (existing) relevant papers. “Ministers may well come under pressure in due course for a relaxation and/or parity with GB.” The document concludes “That’s it so far...making haste slowly?” Emails sent between officials in the department the same month said that lord lieutenants in Northern Ireland had been approached about local events to mark the jubilee. One message says: “Lord lieutenants have not shown any enthusiasm for encouraging GJ celebrations at a local level. “Lady Carswell in particular believes that it would be difficult for LLs to encourage such activities without appearing political.”

Two men involved in a theft at Kiara Kitchen Hardware godown earlier this month were arrested by the Mangalhat police on Tuesday. The police said property worth ₹17.30 lakh was seized from the duo. Following a complaint by owner Shravan Kumar, his brother-in-law Akash Kumar, 20, and Piyush, 19, were arrested near Aghapura Chowrastha, Mangalhat. The complainant alleged that the two stole goods worth ₹17.50 lakh over a period of time. The investigation revealed that Akash, who was working in the godown for the past two years, planned the theft with his friend Piyush. Over a period of several months, Akash allegedly stole various hardware items from the godown and handed them over to Piyush. Piyush then sold these stolen articles at a discounted price in the market. Then the duo shared the proceeds of the crime. While the complainant has been operating Kiara Kitchen Hardware shop and godown for the past three years, he appointed his brother-in-law two years ago for stock-keeping at his godown. When he sensed a huge difference in his stocks, he lodged a complaint against the duo. The police seized ₹5 lakh cash, kitchen hardware items including seven bundles of T Patti (or T profile) worth ₹4.51 lakh, 64 cartons of tandem boxes worth ₹5.86 lakh, two bundles of profile worth ₹1.30 lakh, a bundle of sliding channel worth ₹19,200, three boxes of sliding fittings worth ₹42,750 and two mobile phones. Investigation is underway. Published - November 26, 2024 11:46 pm IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit

Pandas An An and Ke Ke celebrate their 1st Christmas in Hong Kong HONG KONG (AP) — A pair of five-year-old pandas, named An An and Ke Ke, celebrated their first Christmas early in a Hong Kong park, munching on special treats and looking cute for the cameras. An An, the male panda, was presented with an ice slab that had “Merry Christmas” written on it with sweet potato and carrots while Ke Ke, his female companion, got a snowman garnished with slices of carrot and apple in a special press event Monday before visitors streamed to the park. China sent the pair to Hong Kong in late September in a bid to boost tourism in the city. Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Wemby: Spurs-Knicks Christmas game is also an animated one at Disney World NEW YORK (AP) — There’s a Christmas Day basketball game at Walt Disney World, featuring Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Wemby. While Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs are facing the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, an alternate animated telecast will have the teams playing in the Magic Kingdom, with some Disney characters participating. The special alt-cast, the first animated presentation of an NBA game, will be shown on ESPN2 and also stream on Disney+ and ESPN+. 'Squid Game' returns looking for win with season 2 The first season of “Squid Game” was Netflix's most-watched series and went on to win a variety of accolades including the Emmy Award for lead actor in a drama series for Lee Jung-jae and a directing award for Hwang Dong-hyuk. The show returns for its second season on Dec. 26 and is already nominated for a Golden Globe for best drama. It's rare for TV shows made in Korea to have more than one season but Lee describes Hwang as “a genius.” A third and final season has already filmed. Netflix is also invested in expanding its “Squid Game” universe with a reality competition series and an English-language version in development. In the ruins of a bombed-out church in Lebanon, there's now a tiny Christmas tree DARDGHAYA, Lebanon (AP) — A Christmas tree stands among the fallen stones in the ruins of a Catholic church in southern Lebanon that was hit by an Israeli airstrike during the war with Hezbollah. It's a small and modest tree. There are no lights because the war destroyed power lines. The ground is too uneven to set up the Nativity scene. The priest says his blood pressure went up and he lost his balance when he saw the church's destruction. Now he leads Mass in an underground room that serves as a temporary worship space. He tells the community it “is more like the cave where Jesus was born.” Burt, the huge Australian crocodile who had a cameo in ‘Crocodile Dundee,’ dies at 90 The Crocosaurus Cove reptile aquarium in Darwin, Australia, says the huge crocodile that rose to fame with a cameo in the movie “Crocodile Dundee” has died. The aquarium says Burt died over the weekend and was at least 90 years old. A saltwater crocodile, Burt was estimated to be more than 5 meters long. The 1986 movie stars Paul Hogan as the rugged crocodile hunter Mick Dundee. In the movie, American Sue Charlton, played by actress Linda Kozlowski, goes to fill her canteen in a watering hole when she is attacked by a crocodile, before being saved by Dundee. Elaborate holiday light displays are making spirits bright in a big way CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow might be enough to brighten some homes this holiday season. But others are adorned with thousands of blinking lights synched to blasting music. In Mesa, Arizona, 14 homeowners have been going all-out on holiday lights for 30 years, and those buying homes in the neighborhood often find the attics full of décor left behind by previous owners. In Santa Clarita, California, residents began coordinating their holiday lights to bring some joy to their community after an earthquake. And in Edmond, Oklahoma, those looking to the western sky will easily spot the Miranda family’s elaborate display featuring images and music from the movie “Wicked.” Santa braves the sticky heat of the Amazon jungle to bring gifts to children in Brazilian village CATALAO, Brazil (AP) — Santa Claus has braved the sticky heat of the Amazon rainforest this weekend, taking two boats to bring gifts to the children of a small village near the Brazilian city of Manaus. The visit was arranged by Amigos do Papai Noel, a Brazilian charity that has been taking gifts to children in the Amazon rainforest for the past 26 years. More than 600 children from different villages gathered in Catalao to receive presents from Santa, who dressed in his traditional nightcap, white gloves and red suit, while enduring the stifling jungle heat. NASA's Parker Solar Probe aims to fly closer to the sun like never before NEW YORK (AP) — A NASA spacecraft is about to make the closest approach to the sun. The Parker Solar Probe was launched in 2018 to get a close-up look at the sun. On Tuesday, Parker will pass within a record-breaking 3.8 million miles of the sun’s surface. That's nearly seven times closer to the sun than previous spacecraft. Scientists won’t hear from Parker until a few days after the flyby. It’ll continue circling the sun at this distance until at least September. Scientists hope to better understand what drives the solar wind and why the corona is so much hotter than the sun's surface. 174 Colorado skiers and snowboarders rescued after a lift cracks WINTER PARK, Colo. (AP) — Officials are investigating what caused a crack in a Colorado ski lift that forced the evacuation of over 170 stranded skiers and snowboarders. The evacuation happened Saturday on a gondola lift at Winter Park Resort. A spokesperson says the lift stopped automatically when a crack was detected in a structural piece of the lift. Passengers were lowered down by ropes over the course of about five hours. No injuries were reported during the rescues, which came at the start of the busy holiday season. 'Sonic 3' bests 'Mufasa: The Lion King' at the box office NEW YORK (AP) — In the holiday season battle of big-budget family movies, Paramount Pictures’ “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” sped past the Walt Disney Co.’s “Mufasa: The Lion King” to take the top spot at the box office. The results came just ahead of the lucrative Christmas corridor in theaters. According to studio estimates, “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” debuted with $62 million in ticket sales over the weekend. “Mufasa,” however, was humbled in its opening weekend, coming in notably shy of expectations. It returned just $35 million in domestic ticket sales.

www777 casino Dropbox, Inc. ( NASDAQ: DBX ) UBS Global Technology and AI Conference December 3, 2024 1:35 PM ET Company Call Participants Timothy Regan - Chief Financial Officer Conference Call Participants Taylor McGinnis - UBS Taylor McGinnis Okay. Hello, everyone, and welcome to the UBS IT and AI conference. So in this session, we have Dropbox's CFO, Tim. Tim thanks so much for joining us today. Timothy Regan You bet, Taylor. Happy to be here. Taylor McGinnis Awesome. Perfect. And for those in the audience that don't know me, my name is Taylor McGinnis, and I cover the application and SaaS base here at UBS. So with that, before I dive in, if anyone has a question in the audience, there is a QR code in front of you. You can just tap that, and I'll make sure to read off any of those at the end. Perfect. Awesome. Let's dive in. Tim, maybe a good place to start would just be at a high level thoughts on what you're seeing in the demand environment. It sounds like based on some of the comments that you gave last quarter that top of funnel activity remains really strong but you're still seeing possibly some rightsizing and optimization amongst some of your larger customers. So can you comment on that? And any signs of green shoots or is it still challenging out there? Timothy Regan Yes. Good question. I'd say the demand environment has been relatively consistent being stable, similar signs as we've been seeing in the past couple of quarters. So I think through some of the positives on the individual side of our business across our Plus and essential SKUs, still seeing some growth in those SKUs. We've done some work to improve the mobile experience in particular, and that's where we're seeing a lot of our new customers come throughNoDerog/iStock Unreleased via Getty Images Founded in 1872, Kimberly-Clark Corporation ( NYSE: KMB ) is a large multinational paper products company with an emphasis on baby, child, and family care. Income-focused investors have long prized KMB stock for its stable and predictable If you enjoyed this, consider Ian's Insider Corner to enjoy access to similar initiation reports for all the new stocks that we buy. Membership also includes an active chat room, weekly updates, and my responses to your questions. Ian Bezek is a former hedge fund analyst at Kerrisdale Capital. He has spent the decade living in Latin America, doing the boots-on-the ground research for investors interested in markets such as Mexico, Colombia, and Chile. He also specializes in high-quality compounders and growth stocks at reasonable prices in the US and other developed markets. Ian leads the investing group Ian's Insider Corner . Features of the group include: the Weekend Digest which covers everything from new ideas to updates on current holdings and macro analysis, trade alerts, an active chat room, and direct access to Ian. Learn More . Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.

HERZLIYA, Israel and CALGARY, AB , Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Innocan Pharma Corporation (CSE: INNO) (FSE: IP4) (OTCQB: INNPF) ("Innocan" or the "Company"), a pioneer in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, is pleased to report positive results from a basic safety assessment study, evaluating LPT-CBD administered as a single injection in Göttingen minipigs. The drug was administered in three ascending doses, and the animals were closely monitored over a 28-day period for key safety parameters. These included clinical observations, vital signs, blood parameters, and local injection site reactions. Encouragingly, no adverse events were recorded during the study. All animals exhibited normal weight gain and demonstrated excellent tolerance to the drug, with no local reactions observed at any of the administered dose sites. Minipigs are breeds of miniature domestic pigs which are recognized by the FDA as a robust translational model due to their anatomical, physiological, and biochemical similarities to humans. They provide valuable insights into pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and drug efficacy. "We are thrilled that LPT-CBD once again demonstrates a promising safety profile, particularly in minipigs, which are widely regarded as a strong toxicology model," said Prof. Chezy Barenholz, Chief Scientific Officer of Innocan Pharma. Dr. Eyal Kalo , Innocan's R&D Director, added: "These results are immensely gratifying as they provide strong feasibility for LPT-CBD's safety evaluation, supporting our upcoming regulatory milestones and paving the way for its ultimate approval." LPT-CBD is an innovative injectable liposomal formulation designed for the sustained release of CBD, targeting the treatment of chronic pain. Previous preclinical studies in various animal models have demonstrated prolonged CBD pharmacokinetics, delivering long-term efficacy. About Innocan Pharma: Innocan is a pharmaceutical tech company that operates under two main segments: Pharmaceuticals and Consumer Wellness. In the Pharmaceuticals segment, Innocan focuses on developing innovative drug delivery platform technologies comprises with cannabinoids science, to treat various conditions to improve patients' quality of life. This segment involves innovative drug delivery technology: LPT CBD-loaded liposome platform facilitating exact dosing and the prolonged and controlled release of CBD into the blood stream. The LPT delivery platform research is in the preclinical trial phase for Chronic Pain Management. In the Consumer Wellness segment, Innocan develops and markets a wide portfolio of innovative and high-performance self-care products to promote a healthier lifestyle. Under this segment Innocan carries on business through subsidiary, BI Sky Global Ltd. that focuses on developing advanced targeted online sales. https://innocanpharma.com/ Contact Information: For Innocan Pharma Corporation: Iris Bincovich, CEO +1 5162104025 +972-54-3012842 +442037699377 info@innocanpharma.com NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER HAVE REVIEWED OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information Certain information set forth in this news release, including, without limitation, the Company's plans for human trials of its LPT-CBD platform, is forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. By its nature, forward-looking information is subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond Innocan's control. . The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by Innocan, including expectations and assumptions concerning the anticipated benefits of the products, satisfaction of regulatory requirements in various jurisdictions and satisfactory completion of production and distribution arrangements. Forward-looking information is subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and experience to differ materially from the anticipated results or expectations expressed in this news release. The key risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: global and local (national) economic, political, market and business conditions; governmental and regulatory requirements and actions by governmental authorities; and potential disruption of relationships with suppliers, manufacturers, customers, business partners and competitors. There are also risks that are inherent in the nature of product distribution, including import/export matters and the failure to obtain any required regulatory and other approvals (or to do so in a timely manner). The anticipated timeline for entry to markets may change for a number of reasons, including the inability to secure necessary regulatory requirements, or the need for additional time to conclude and/or satisfy the manufacturing and distribution arrangements. As a result of the foregoing, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information contained in this news release. A comprehensive discussion of other risks that impact Innocan can be found in Innocan's public reports and filings which are available under Innocan's profile at www.sedarplus.ca . Readers are cautioned that undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information as actual results may vary materially from the forward-looking information. Innocan does not undertake to update, correct or revise any forward-looking information as a result of any new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2046271/3968398/Innocan_Pharma_Corporation_Logo.jpgAP Source: Burnes, Diamondbacks agree to $210 million, 6-year deal

Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson was one of the year's biggest sporting events, but the outcome left much to be desired. The headliner's labored efforts had many calling the fight boring at best and suspicious at worst. Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, Paul's manager and co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions, pushed back against any fight-fixing claims on Wednesday. On Nov. 15, Paul vs. Tyson competed in a professional boxing bout with modified rules. Paul's inability to finish a fatigued 58-year-old Tyson had people questioning the fight's authenticity. The most prevalent instance detractors point to is when Paul opted against pursuing a knockdown after wobbling Tyson in Round 3. "People are like, 'Oh yeah, it's rigged because look at him on the pads but he didn't do this in the fight,' because someone is f---ing punching back you dumb f---s," Paul said on his brother Logan Paul's " Impaulsive " podcast on Wednesday. "People don't realize my power, and my jab and my speed and my ability, and my footwork to get out of the way of those punches, so then all of a sudden he's throwing at, literally, air." Paul added fuel to the fire of the fight-fixing allegations during his post-fight interview. Paul told reporters he "didn't want to hurt someone that didn't need to be hurt," agreeing that he "definitely" took his foot off the gas to "give the fans a show." On Wednesday, Paul claimed it was Tyson's elusiveness that saved him. "He was hard to hit," Paul said. "He was elusive. I was missing a lot of punches. I don't know how he gets off to the side like that... I wish he had put up a better fight so that I could've risen more and done more, and he was surviving." Sports broadcasters, alleged internet sleuths and fans have questioned the fight's legitimacy. Bidarian specifically addressed Super Bowl champion Michael Irvin's claims that a "no uppercut" clause was written into the Paul vs. Tyson contract. "The only thing that bothers me is the continued kind of narrative and people saying the fight was rigged," Bidarian told "The Ariel Helwani Show." "How would you have seen the contract to begin with that MIke Tyson couldn't throw an uppercut?" Bidarian asked. "It's beyond lunacy." Bidarian reassured the fight was legitimate, citing its regulated status as a professional bout and the high-stakes partnership with Netflix. Bidarian dismissed social media posts claiming the fight was fixed as deceptive efforts to generate viewership. "This was a regulated professional bout by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. And we were partners with Netflix, the biggest media company in the world, who's a public company," Bidarian said. "For anyone to suggest that this was in any way a rigged fight, they're either dumb or they're looking for attention." "I get it. Putting up posts [claiming] 'proof it was rigged' gets you good engagement. A lot of people comment, like and share. We're in an attention economy. People say outlandish things to bring awareness to themselves. It's a sad state of society that people want to spend their time like that." Netflix and Most Valuable Promotions -- a company founded by Paul and Bidarian -- partnered to host Paul vs. Tyson at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. On April 29, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations approved the fighters' request to sanction the fight professionally despite concerns about the 31-year age gap between athletes. The commission approved the sanctioning, but included a modified rulset of 14-ounce gloves (4 ounces bigger than a standard heavyweight bout) as well as the fight being eight, two-minute rounds. Tyson revealed post-fight that he "almost died" in June after an ulcer flare-up delayed the original date for the fight in July.Joni Ernst opens the door to supporting Hegseth nominationEmbedding Disaster Resilience in Public Finance: A Roadmap for Global ChallengesLocal health officials are hoping to curb use of social media by youth with new recommendations meant to bolster their mental wellness. The Board of Health for South Heartland District Health Department at its November meeting passed a resolution recommending that schools and other youth-serving organizations adopt policies to limit access to and use of cell phones and social media, according to a press release issued Thursday. Board President Sandra (Sam) Nejezchleb said members of the board are directly concerned with the protection and promotion of health, safety, and welfare of the residents of Adams, Clay, Nuckolls, and Webster Counties. “With this resolution, the board is encouraging adoption of policies that minimize the risk of harm for all children and adolescents, while promoting education on — and support for — healthy and responsible use of social media,” she said. The action followed the board’s review and discussion of the U.S. Surgeon General’s advisories, as well as national and local data about youth social media use. A May 2023 Advisory from the U.S. Surgeon General presented evidence on the impacts of social media on the mental health of children and adolescents. It outlined steps policymakers, parents, youth, and technology companies can take to mitigate the risk of harm to children and adolescents. “We cannot conclude social media is sufficiently safe for children and adolescents,” the advisory stated. In June 2024, the U.S. Surgeon General called for warning labels on social media platforms. SHDHD health director Michele Bever said social media use by the nation’s youth is nearly universal with up to 95% of youth ages 13–17 reporting using a social media platform, and more than a third saying they use social media ‘almost constantly. The national trends are mirrored closely in the four counties covered by the South Heartland District Health Department. Data gathered by SHDHD indicate nearly 90% of 9-12 graders report using social media. About 80% of high school students reported they use social media at least once a day. About one in every three students reported they use social media more than once every hour, with the highest use among 10-11th grade girls at 40-42%. Dr. Kathleen Amyot, who serves as the physician member on the Board of Health, shared information from reports and studies from a variety of peer-reviewed publications with the board. While social media can offer opportunities for social connection, self-expression, and access to supportive communities, particularly if the child is in a marginalized group, she said it comes at a potential cost. “Social media has been associated with increased mental health disorders, bullying victimization, poor sleep and diet, decreased self-esteem, lower socialization skills, and decreased academic performance,” Amyot said. The health department is identifying tools for parents, caretakers, schools, and youth-serving organizations to help them adopt and implement model policies. The department also will be working to provide access to training and guidance to help adults promote age-appropriate social media use and generally model healthy behaviors electronic devices. For more information, contact South Heartland District Health Department at 1-877-238-7595.