forebet Every year the Pentagon prepares a detailed special report about China's rapidly-growing military and sends it to the US Congress which then examines it thoroughly. The Pentagon keeps a very close watch on China's military activities and tracks its progress on various parameters on a yearly basis. This year's report has revealed something startling about China's nuclear weapons stockpile. In an era where the focus of the world is on de-nuclearisation and disarmament, Beijing was found to most-actively adding weapons to its stockpile. At least 100 nuclear warheads have been added to its arsenal in 2024 alone. The Pentagon report also highlights that China now looks to accelerate the pace of producing even more nuclear weapons and cross the 1,000-nukes mark by 2030. It is estimated that China currently has around 600 nukes in its inventory. "China has the world's leading hypersonic missile arsenal and has advanced its development of both conventional and nuclear-armed hypersonic missile technologies," the report stated. It also noted that China will continue to grow its nuclear arsenal at least till 2035. A POLICY OF SECRECY AND DECEIT China keeps everything related to its military and defence a closely-guarded secret. It never divulges any information regarding its army, air force, or navy, and the weapons under their control. Though Beijing formally announces a defence budget annually, the Pentagon believes that is not the true figure. In 2024, Beijing announced an annual defence outlay of $224 billion, but Pentagon's report reveals China has spends at least 40 per cent more than what it officially declares. This brings the defence budget anywhere in the range of $350 billion to $450 billion - or roughly half the US defence budget, which is over $880 billion. Pentagon's research also highlights Beijing's wider focus to further modernise its military by developing a range of new missiles, including Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles or ICBMs - both conventional and nuclear - "that could strike Alaska, Hawaii, and the continental United States". The Chinese Navy is already the largest in the world with a declared fleet size of more than 370 ships and submarines. This is significantly larger than the fleet size of the US Navy, which is 290 ships and submarines. China's air force too is a force to be reckoned with as it has more than 1,200 fighter jets that are fourth-generation military aircraft - at par with some of the most sophisticated fighter jets manufactured by the United States and its allies in Europe. China's air force has an overall strength close to 2,000 aircraft, which is massive. US-CHINA DEFENCE TIES Though there is a basic structure for defence talks between the two nations, and communication does take place at a junior level, China has rejected any high-level dialogue or cooperation with the US. When US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin reached out to the Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun for a meeting on the sidelines of the defence summit in Laos last month, the latter declined it. Secretary Austin called it "unfortunate" and said that such an attitude is a "setback for the entire region". Incoming US President Donald Trump has appointed two fierce China hawks in his administration - Marco Rubio as the Secretary of State and Mike Walz as the US National Security Adviser. the Chinese government has placed sanctions on Marco Rubio, and in 2020 had banned him from ever entering the country again - something Beijing would need to reconsider when he takes office as Secretary of State. Weeks before the Trump Administration takes over, NSA-designate Mike Waltz has already urged President-elect Trump to "urgently end the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East in order to counter the greater threat from the Chinese Communist Party". Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the worldAlthough the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls are due only in 2027, political experts suggest that the increasing number of temple-mosque disputes in the state and the resultant polarisation have started to set the political narrative. ET Year-end Special Reads What kept India's stock market investors on toes in 2024? India's car race: How far EVs went in 2024 Investing in 2025: Six wealth management trends to watch out for Analysts point to the recent bypolls in the state where slogans like "Batenge to Katenge" (divided we perish) played a key role in ensuring Hindu unity . And it is in this backdrop that the experts feel that the intensifying temple-mosque polarisation pitch has its own implications. "During the bypolls, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's 'Batenge to Katenge' slogan was seen as a response to the Samajwadi Party 's (SP) attempt to create caste-based mobilisation using the PDA (Backwards, Dalits, Minorities) move. The outcome (of the bypolls) was clearly in favour of the BJP ," political analyst Rajeev Ranjan told PTI. Of the nine Assembly seats that went to bypolls in Uttar Pradesh, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won seven, while the main opposition SP secured the two remaining seats. "Recent developments indicate that the process of polarisation may intensify further as 2027 approaches," Ranjan added. 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View Program Data Science SQL for Data Science along with Data Analytics and Data Visualization By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI and Analytics based Business Strategy By - Tanusree De, Managing Director- Accenture Technology Lead, Trustworthy AI Center of Excellence: ATCI View Program Web Development A Comprehensive ASP.NET Core MVC 6 Project Guide for 2024 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Digital Marketing Masterclass by Pam Moore By - Pam Moore, Digital Transformation and Social Media Expert View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI-Powered Python Mastery with Tabnine: Boost Your Coding Skills By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Office Productivity Mastering Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and 365 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Digital marketing - Wordpress Website Development By - Shraddha Somani, Digital Marketing Trainer, Consultant, Strategiest and Subject Matter expert View Program Office Productivity Mastering Google Sheets: Unleash the Power of Excel and Advance Analysis By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Web Development Mastering Full Stack Development: From Frontend to Backend Excellence By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Finance Financial Literacy i.e Lets Crack the Billionaire Code By - CA Rahul Gupta, CA with 10+ years of experience and Accounting Educator View Program Data Science SQL Server Bootcamp 2024: Transform from Beginner to Pro By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Such expert opinions are fuelled by a recent spate of claims -- from the existence of a Shivling in Varanasi's Gyanvapi mosque to similar assertions in Sambhal, Badaun, Aligarh, Muzaffarnagar and Bulandshahr. In the latest case, a petition was filed in Badaun earlier this month, claiming that a Neelkanth Mahadev temple existed where the Jama Masjid now stands. A local court will hear the maintainability of the plea in January. Meanwhile, violence erupted in November during a court-ordered survey of Sambhal's Shahi Jama Masjid, leaving four people dead. Hindu groups have claimed that a Hariharanath temple previously existed where the Mughal-era mosque stands. Political observers feel that such claims may gain currency in the run-up to 2027 polls, impacting the political climate in Uttar Pradesh. Former vice-chancellor of the Lucknow University and social activist Professor Roop Rekha Verma accused the Bharatiya Janata Party-led state government of promoting communal polarisation. "Such incidents are happening across the country, but these cannot be dismissed as a mere coincidence given the political groundwork for the 2027 Assembly election," she told PTI. Verma argued that after the opposition's relatively strong performance in the Lok Sabha polls held earlier in the year, the ruling party has intensified its efforts to regain political space. In the general election, the BJP secured 33 of the 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh, while its allies Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) and Apna Dal (S) won two seats and one seat respectively. The SP captured 37 seats, while the Congress won six and one seat went to the Azad Samaj Party. Responding to recent surveys and excavations in Sambhal's mosques, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav said, "These people will keep searching and digging until one day, they dig their own government out. They believe in systems, not democracy." State BJP spokesperson Harish Chandra Srivastava hit back at Yadav. "The SP and the Congress want to climb the ladder of power by ignoring justice and indulging in appeasement politics. But the people are now aware of the truth," he told PTI. Citing past communal incidents, Srivastava said, "Who will answer for the massacres and violence in Sambhal during the 1978 and 1982 riots, where countless Hindus were killed and their houses burnt? Why did those victims not get justice?" SP spokesperson Rajendra Chaudhary feels that the "BJP's ploy" would backfire. "Their motives are anti-people and their strategy will turn against them. In 2027, Akhilesh Yadav's PDA strategy will prevail," he said. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat recently called for restraint in raising new temple-related disputes. Speaking in Pune on December 19, he said, "The Ram mandir (in Ayodhya) holds a special place for Hindus, but raising such issues to become leaders of Hindus in new places is not acceptable." Professor Sushil Kumar Pandey from the Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University said communal polarisation is likely to grow in the coming days. "Many Hindu worship sites were destroyed during the Islamic rule. With favourable political conditions and the Ram mandir's construction, revisiting historical grievances will undoubtedly escalate communal tensions and have political ramifications," he added. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )

It looked like a recipe for disaster. So, when his country's swimmers were being accused of doping earlier this year, one Chinese official cooked up something fast. He blamed it on contaminated noodles. In fact, he argued, it could have been a culinary conspiracy concocted by criminals, whose actions led to the cooking wine used to prepare the noodles being laced with a banned heart drug that found its way into an athlete's system. This theory was spelled out to international anti-doping officials during a meeting and, after weeks of wrangling, finally made it into the thousands of pages of data handed over to the lawyer who investigated the case involving 23 Chinese swimmers who had tested positive for that same drug. The attorney, appointed by the World Anti-Doping Agency, refused to consider that scenario as he sifted through the evidence. In spelling out his reasoning, lawyer Eric Cottier paid heed to the half-baked nature of the theory. “The Investigator considers this scenario, which he has described in the conditional tense, to be possible, no less, no more,” Cottier wrote. Even without the contaminated-noodles theory, Cottier found problems with the way WADA and the Chinese handled the case but ultimately determined WADA had acted reasonably in not appealing China's conclusion that its athletes had been inadvertently contaminated. Critics of the way the China case was handled can't help but wonder if a wider exploration of the noodle theory, details of which were discovered by The Associated Press via notes and emails from after the meeting where it was delivered, might have lent a different flavor to Cottier's conclusions. “There are more story twists to the ways the Chinese explain the TMZ case than a James Bond movie,” said Rob Koehler, the director general of the advocacy group Global Athlete. "And all of it is complete fiction.” Something in the kitchen was contaminated In April, reporting from the New York Times and the German broadcaster ARD revealed that the 23 Chinese swimmers had tested positive for the banned heart medication trimetazidine, also known as TMZ. China's anti-doping agency determined the athletes had been contaminated, and so, did not sanction them. WADA accepted that explanation , did not press the case further, and China was never made to deliver a public notice about the “no-fault findings,” as is often seen in similar cases. The stock explanation for the contamination was that traces of TMZ were found in the kitchen of a hotel where the swimmers were staying. In his 58-page report , Cottier relayed some suspicions about the feasibility of that chain of events — noting that WADA's chief scientist “saw no other solution than to accept it, even if he continued to have doubts about the reality of contamination as described by the Chinese authorities.” But without evidence to support pursuing the case, and with the chance of winning an appeal at almost nil, Cottier determined WADA's “decision not to appeal appears indisputably reasonable.” But how did the drugs get into the kitchen? A mystery remained: How did those traces of TMZ get into the kitchen? Shortly after the doping positives were revealed, the Institute of National Anti-Doping Organizations held a meeting on April 30 where it heard from the leader of China's agency, Li Zhiquan. Li's presentation was mostly filled with the same talking points that have been delivered throughout the saga — that the positive tests resulted from contamination from the kitchen. But he expanded on one way the kitchen might have become contaminated, harkening to another case in China involving a low-level TMZ positive. A pharmaceutical factory, he explained, had used industrial alcohol in the distillation process for producing TMZ. The industrial alcohol laced with the drug “then entered the market through illegal channels,” he said. The alcohol "was re-used by the perpetrators to process and produce cooking wine, which is an important seasoning used locally to make beef noodles,” Li said. “The contaminated beef noodles were consumed by that athlete, resulting in an extremely low concentration of TMZ in the positive sample. "The wrongdoers involved have been brought to justice.” New information sent to WADA ... eventually This new information raised eyebrows among the anti-doping leaders listening to Li's report. So much so that over the next month, several emails ensued to make sure the details about the noodles and wine made their way to WADA lawyers, who could then pass it onto Cottier. Eventually, Li did pass on the information to WADA general counsel Ross Wenzel and, just to be sure, one of the anti-doping leaders forwarded it, as well, according to the emails seen by the AP. All this came with Li's request that the noodles story be kept confidential. Turns out, it made it into Cottier's report, though he took the information with a grain of salt. “Indeed, giving it more attention would have required it to be documented, then scientifically verified and validated,” he wrote. Neither Wenzel nor officials at the Chinese anti-doping agency returned messages from AP asking about the noodles conspiracy and the other athlete who Li suggested had been contaminated by them. Meanwhile, 11 of the swimmers who originally tested positive competed at the Paris Games earlier this year in a meet held under the cloud of the Chinese doping case. Though WADA considers the case closed, Koehler and others point to situations like this as one of many reasons that an investigation by someone other than Cottier, who was hired by WADA, is still needed. “It gives the appearance that people are just making things up as they go along on this, and hoping the story just goes away," Koehler said. “Which clearly it has not.” AP Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-games

Famous Liam Payne friend defended over outfit to funeral

LONDON (AP) — A woman who claimed mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor “brutally raped and battered” her in a Dublin hotel penthouse was awarded nearly 250,000 Euros ($257,000) on Friday by a civil court jury in Ireland. Nikita Hand said the Dec. 9, 2018, assault after a night of partying left her heavily bruised and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. McGregor testified that he never forced the woman to do anything against her will and said she fabricated the allegations after the two had consensual sex. His lawyer had called Hand a gold digger. The fighter, once the face of the Ultimate Fighting Championship but now past his prime, shook his head as the jury of eight women and four men found him liable for assault after deliberating about six hours in the High Court in Dublin. He was mobbed by cameras as he left court but did not comment. He later said on the social platform X that he would appeal the verdict and the “modest award.” Hand’s voice cracked and her hands trembled as she read a statement outside the courthouse, saying she would never forget what happened to her but would now be able to move on with her life. She thanked her family, partner, friends, jurors, the judge and all the supporters that had reached out to her online, but particularly her daughter. “She has given me so much strength and courage over the last six years throughout this nightmare to keep on pushing forward for justice,” she said. “I want to show (her) and every other girl and boy that you can stand up for yourself if something happens to you, no matter who the person is, and justice will be served.” The Associated Press generally does not name alleged victims of sexual violence unless they come forward publicly, as Hand has done. Under Irish law, she did not have the anonymity she would have been granted in a criminal proceeding and was named publicly throughout the trial. Her lawyer told jurors that McGregor was angry about a fight he had lost in Las Vegas two months earlier and took it out on his client. “He’s not a man, he’s a coward,” attorney John Gordon said in his closing speech. “A devious coward and you should treat him for what he is.” Gordon said his client never pretended to be a saint and was only looking to have fun when she sent McGregor a message through Instagram after attending a Christmas party. He said Hand knew McGregor socially and that they had grown up in the same area. She said he picked her and a friend up in a car and shared cocaine with them, which McGregor admitted in court, on the way to the Beacon Hotel. Hand said she told McGregor she didn’t want to have sex with him and that she was menstruating. She said she told him “no” as he started kissing her but he eventually pinned her to a bed and she couldn’t move. McGregor put her in a chokehold and later told her, “now you know how I felt in the octagon where I tapped out three times,” referring to a UFC match when he had to admit defeat, she said. Hand had to take several breaks in emotional testimony over three days. She said McGregor threatened to kill her during the encounter and she feared she would never see her young daughter again. Eventually, he let go of her. “I remember saying I was sorry, as I felt that I did something wrong and I wanted to reassure him that I wouldn’t tell anyone so he wouldn’t hurt me again,” she testified. She said she then let him do what he wanted and he had sex with her. A paramedic who examined Hand the next day testified that she had never before seen someone with that intensity of bruising. A doctor told jurors Hand had multiple injuries. Hand said the trauma of the attack had left her unable to work as a hairdresser, she fell behind on her mortgage and had to move out of her house. Police investigated the woman’s complaint but prosecutors declined to bring charges, saying there was insufficient evidence and a conviction was unlikely. McGregor, in his post on X, said he was disappointed jurors didn’t see all the evidence prosecutors had reviewed. He testified that the two had athletic and vigorous sex, but that it was not rough. He said “she never said ‘no’ or stopped” and testified that everything she said was a lie. “It is a full blown lie among many lies,” he said when asked about the chokehold allegation. “How anyone could believe that me, as a prideful person, would highlight my shortcomings.” McGregor’s lawyer told jurors they had to set aside their animus toward the fighter. “You may have an active dislike of him, some of you may even loathe him – there is no point pretending that the situation might be otherwise,” attorney Remy Farrell said. “I’m not asking you to invite him to Sunday brunch.” The defense said the woman never told investigators McGregor threatened her life. They also showed surveillance video in court that they said appeared to show the woman kiss McGregor’s arm and hug him after they left the hotel room. Farrell said she looked “happy, happy, happy.” McGregor said he was “beyond petrified” when first questioned by police and read them a prepared statement. On the advice of his lawyer, he refused to answer more than 100 follow-up questions. The jury ruled against Hand in a case she brought against one of McGregor’s friends, James Lawrence, whom she accused of having sex with her in the hotel without consent.

It looked like a recipe for disaster. So, when his country's swimmers were being accused of doping earlier this year, one Chinese official cooked up something fast. He blamed it on contaminated noodles. In fact, he argued, it could have been a culinary conspiracy concocted by criminals, whose actions led to the cooking wine used to prepare the noodles being laced with a banned heart drug that found its way into an athlete's system. This theory was spelled out to international anti-doping officials during a meeting and, after weeks of wrangling, finally made it into the thousands of pages of data handed over to the lawyer who investigated the case involving 23 Chinese swimmers who had tested positive for that same drug. The attorney, appointed by the World Anti-Doping Agency, refused to consider that scenario as he sifted through the evidence. In spelling out his reasoning, lawyer Eric Cottier paid heed to the half-baked nature of the theory. “The Investigator considers this scenario, which he has described in the conditional tense, to be possible, no less, no more,” Cottier wrote. Even without the contaminated-noodles theory, Cottier found problems with the way WADA and the Chinese handled the case but ultimately determined WADA had acted reasonably in not appealing China's conclusion that its athletes had been inadvertently contaminated. Critics of the way the China case was handled can't help but wonder if a wider exploration of the noodle theory, details of which were discovered by The Associated Press via notes and emails from after the meeting where it was delivered, might have lent a different flavor to Cottier's conclusions. “There are more story twists to the ways the Chinese explain the TMZ case than a James Bond movie,” said Rob Koehler, the director general of the advocacy group Global Athlete. "And all of it is complete fiction.” In April, reporting from the New York Times and the German broadcaster ARD revealed that the 23 Chinese swimmers had tested positive for the banned heart medication trimetazidine, also known as TMZ. China's anti-doping agency determined the athletes had been contaminated, and so, did not sanction them. WADA accepted that explanation , did not press the case further, and China was never made to deliver a public notice about the “no-fault findings,” as is often seen in similar cases. The stock explanation for the contamination was that traces of TMZ were found in the kitchen of a hotel where the swimmers were staying. In his 58-page report , Cottier relayed some suspicions about the feasibility of that chain of events — noting that WADA's chief scientist “saw no other solution than to accept it, even if he continued to have doubts about the reality of contamination as described by the Chinese authorities.” But without evidence to support pursuing the case, and with the chance of winning an appeal at almost nil, Cottier determined WADA's “decision not to appeal appears indisputably reasonable.” A mystery remained: How did those traces of TMZ get into the kitchen? Shortly after the doping positives were revealed, the Institute of National Anti-Doping Organizations held a meeting on April 30 where it heard from the leader of China's agency, Li Zhiquan. Li's presentation was mostly filled with the same talking points that have been delivered throughout the saga — that the positive tests resulted from contamination from the kitchen. But he expanded on one way the kitchen might have become contaminated, harkening to another case in China involving a low-level TMZ positive. A pharmaceutical factory, he explained, had used industrial alcohol in the distillation process for producing TMZ. The industrial alcohol laced with the drug “then entered the market through illegal channels,” he said. The alcohol "was re-used by the perpetrators to process and produce cooking wine, which is an important seasoning used locally to make beef noodles,” Li said. “The contaminated beef noodles were consumed by that athlete, resulting in an extremely low concentration of TMZ in the positive sample. "The wrongdoers involved have been brought to justice.” This new information raised eyebrows among the anti-doping leaders listening to Li's report. So much so that over the next month, several emails ensued to make sure the details about the noodles and wine made their way to WADA lawyers, who could then pass it onto Cottier. Eventually, Li did pass on the information to WADA general counsel Ross Wenzel and, just to be sure, one of the anti-doping leaders forwarded it, as well, according to the emails seen by the AP. All this came with Li's request that the noodles story be kept confidential. Turns out, it made it into Cottier's report, though he took the information with a grain of salt. “Indeed, giving it more attention would have required it to be documented, then scientifically verified and validated,” he wrote. Neither Wenzel nor officials at the Chinese anti-doping agency returned messages from AP asking about the noodles conspiracy and the other athlete who Li suggested had been contaminated by them. Meanwhile, 11 of the swimmers who originally tested positive competed at the Paris Games earlier this year in a meet held under the cloud of the Chinese doping case. Though WADA considers the case closed, Koehler and others point to situations like this as one of many reasons that an investigation by someone other than Cottier, who was hired by WADA, is still needed. “It gives the appearance that people are just making things up as they go along on this, and hoping the story just goes away," Koehler said. “Which clearly it has not.” AP Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-gamesMusk Appears To Soften Pro-Foreign Worker, H-1B Visa Stance Amid Online SpatPM looks to ‘brighter future’ at Christmas and ‘wishes for peace in Middle East’

HONOLULU (AP) — Michael Rataj had 16 points in Oregon State's 74-65 win over Charleston at the Diamond Head Classic on Sunday. Rataj also had 12 rebounds for the Beavers (9-2). Damarco Minor also scored 16 points, going 5 of 11 from the floor, including 2 for 5 from 3-point range, and 4 for 4 from the line. Parsa Fallah shot 6 of 7 from the field and 2 for 3 from the line to finish with 14 points. The Cougars (8-3) were led by Lazar Djokovic, who recorded 13 points, eight rebounds and two steals. Derrin Boyd added 13 points for Charleston. Deywilk Tavarez also had 10 points. Oregon State took the lead with 15:29 to go in the first half and never looked back. The score was 35-26 at halftime, with Fallah racking up 13 points. Oregon State closed out the victory in the final half, while Minor led the way with a team-high 14 second-half points. ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by and data from . The Associated PressPortugal’s Growing Global Presence: A Reader's PerspectiveThe Iranian regime has “intensified” its secretive development of nuclear detonators at covert facilities, the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) revealed, citing intelligence that exposes alarming advancements in weaponization technologies. The National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) issued a stark warning during a Thursday press conference, revealing the Islamic regime’s escalated efforts to advance nuclear weapon technologies. This includes significant developments at the METFAZ facility, a critical division of the Organization for Advanced Defense Research (SPND). According to the NCRI’s report , these efforts focus on nuclear detonators, specifically Exploding Bridgewire (EBW) devices, crucial for triggering nuclear explosions. The report highlights that METFAZ’s operations are centered at the newly renamed Meshkat Complex in Sanjarian, a heavily guarded site located roughly 25 miles east of Tehran. It further outlines that the facility is central to manufacturing high-explosive materials under the guise of oil industry research conducted by the Arvin Kimia Abzar company, which NCRI asserts is a covert front for military purposes. The prominent Iranian opposition group’s officials identified key figures in this program, including Saeed Borji, chairman of Arvin Kimia Abzar, and CEO Akbar Motallebizadeh. Both are high-ranking experts in SPND with extensive histories in nuclear weapons projects, including EBW detonators. Borji’s involvement with explosive technologies dates back to his training with Ukrainian scientist Vyacheslav V. Danilenko, highlighting international dimensions to Iran’s nuclear efforts. “Transparency is non-existent in the regime’s nuclear program,” said Alireza Jafarzadeh, Deputy Director of NCRI’s Washington Office, as he stressed the need for immediate International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspections of the Meshkat Complex and other critical sites. He elaborated: Specifically, I think the one area that we need to focus [on] is the nuclear weapons program of the regime. I think out of all the other various threats of the regime, whether it’s their proxies and their activities in the region, their warmongering, they have received major blows in those areas. The one area that they’re counting on– and it is crucial for the survival of the regime is their nuclear weapons program of Iran. And that’s where I think the focus should be. They’re more dangerous there than they have ever been. They will go head-on as they are doing. They may avoid taking some precautionary measures that they used to make because they feel like this is the last round. And that’s why I think everyone should be concerned, whether it is the capitals in Europe or right here in Washington. That’s where you want to focus. You wanna make sure that the Iran regime doesn’t get the bomb. He also warned of the regime’s secrecy and the proliferation of “unknown sites” that complicate oversight. “But, in reality, there’s so much ‎unknown; there’s so many different ‎unknown sites, that there is really only one sure way to end the threat of the nuclear weapons program of the Iran regime — and that’s ending the rule of the mullahs in Iran,” he added. The NCRI, which has been instrumental in exposing Iran’s clandestine nuclear activities for over two decades, first revealed the Natanz uranium enrichment site in 2002, leading to international inspections. Their latest revelations spotlight Iran’s continuing nuclear ambitions despite global sanctions and diplomatic efforts to curb weaponization. The SPND, established under the late Brigadier General Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, is central to these activities. Its subdivisions, including METFAZ, have systematically advanced weaponization components while evading oversight by the IAEA. During the press conference, the NCRI called for immediate action, including: IAEA Inspections: Unrestricted access to the Meshkat Complex and related facilities. Reinstatement of Sanctions: Use of the UN Security Council’s snapback mechanism to restore comprehensive sanctions on Iran. Increased Scrutiny of Weaponization: Focus on weaponization, not just uranium enrichment levels, in international negotiations. In a statement to Breitbart News, Jafarzadeh emphasized the secretive nature of Iran’s nuclear ambitions. “There is not a single instance where the Iranian regime has voluntarily come forward and said, ‘This is what we’re doing; this is our activity; this is our program.’ None of that. It has always been covert, and it will always remain covert,” he said. “However, the level of escalation we are witnessing, along with the resources they are now allocating, is a clear indication that they are intensifying their efforts.” “The regime is focusing on building a bomb as the only means for its survival,” he added. Soona Samsami, NCRI’s U.S. representative, emphasized the regime’s reliance on deception to obstruct verification efforts by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). “While global attention remains fixated on uranium enrichment levels, the Iranian regime is covertly advancing the weaponization aspect of its nuclear program,” she noted. Maryam Rajavi, NCRI’s President-elect, reiterated the importance of a non-nuclear Iran, emphasizing that regime change through internal resistance offers the only sustainable solution. The revelations underscore the urgent need for the international community to prevent the Iranian regime from acquiring nuclear weapons and address its longstanding policy of denial and deception. The events come as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged Iranians to rise up against their government, amid reports of Israeli plans to target Iran’s nuclear program following the collapse of the Assad regime and its air defenses. Massive protests that erupted in Iran in 2022, have led to documented abuses by the regime, growing international criticism, and support for a democratic republic, highlighted by a bipartisan U.S. resolution endorsing Rajavi’s “Ten Point Plan” for a free, secular, and non-nuclear Iran. The NCRI has long warned that Iran — the largest state sponsor of terrorism worldwide — is witnessing a revolution “in the making,” with the Islamic Republic no longer capable of containing widespread dissent. In October, hundreds of prominent world leaders and legislators convened at the NCRI headquarters on the outskirts of Paris to attend the group’s 2024 Free Iran World Summit and express support for the organization’s efforts in support of a free Iran. Joshua Klein is a reporter for Breitbart News. Email him at jklein@breitbart.com. Follow him on Twitter @JoshuaKlein .i bet meaning 。

EH Group and NIM Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Advance Zero-Emission Hydrogen Fuel Cell Solutions for Maritime Industry NYON, Switzerland & AMSTERDAM–( )–NIM, a Dutch maritime innovator known for its expertise in marine engineering, and EH Group, a Swiss high-tech company specializing in high-performance hydrogen fuel cell technology, are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership marks a significant step toward advancing zero-emission solutions in the maritime sector through the development and standardization of hydrogen fuel cell drive trains. The MoU formalizes NIM and EH Group’s commitment to jointly explore and implement hydrogen-based drive trains specifically tailored for the maritime industry. Leveraging EH Group’s fuel cell technology alongside NIM’s expertise in marine system integration, the partnership aims to create scalable, zero-emission power solutions that meet rigorous maritime standards while driving the industry closer to carbon neutrality. The collaboration will focus on adapting and standardizing fuel cell systems to meet the unique operational and safety requirements of maritime vessels, paving the way for clean, efficient energy solutions that can be widely deployed. , EH Group Founder, commented : “Partnering with NIM enables us to more effectively deploy marine FC systems across a wide-range of vessels,” , NIM CSO, said : “Combining EH Group’s EH-Trace hydrogen fuel cell system and NIM’s knowledge of system integration, we are ready to speed-up the change in power management applications on board of vessels, This partnership highlights both companies’ shared commitment to environmental sustainability and their dedication to pioneering solutions that contribute to global decarbonization goals. The collaboration between NIM and EH Group aligns with increasing demand within the maritime industry for green alternatives to traditional propulsion systems, a movement that is crucial to meeting international climate targets. the latest news shaping the hydrogen market at EH Group and NIM Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Advance Zero-Emission Hydrogen Fuel Cell Solutions for Maritime Industry, Nimbus and Toshiba Announce Joint Development of Next-Generation Pure Hydrogen Fuel Cell Stack Aiming to realize a versatile fuel cell stack applicable to buses, trucks, and stationary uses GROTON, Conn., Nov. 20, 2024... SFC Energy AG renews framework contract with Fuel Cell Systems Ltd worth EUR 5.5 million for 2025 Brunnthal/Munich, Germany, November 21, 2024 – SFC Energy AG (“SFC”, F3C:DE, ISIN: DE0007568578), a leading provider of... Department of Energy Issues Call for Hydrogen Fuel Cell Commercialization Partners to Support the Launch of L’Innovator 2.0 The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), in partnership with Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL)...News Corp Announces Agreement to Sell Foxtel to DAZN for Enterprise Value of A$3.4 Billion

HOUSTON , Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Applus+, a global leader in the Inspection, Testing and Certification sector, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Abyss Solutions (Abyss), a cutting-edge provider of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine-learning solutions for inspection and maintenance. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in advancing Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) capabilities through the integration of AI-driven technologies. By bringing together the extensive experience of Applus+ in NDT with Abyss' innovative AI algorithms and software platforms, this collaboration aims to revolutionize asset inspection processes, enabling faster, more accurate, and data-driven decision-making. "We are excited to partner with Abyss Solutions to unlock the full potential of artificial intelligence within inspection and testing," said Adam Alessandrino , Executive Vice President of the Pacific region at Applus+. "By integrating AI-driven technologies into our inspection processes, we are well positioned to deliver unparalleled value to our clients by enhancing efficiency, reliability, and safety." Through this partnership, Applus+ and Abyss will focus on developing AI-powered inspection solutions that enable predictive maintenance, asset optimization, and risk mitigation for clients across various industries, including oil and gas, mining, manufacturing, and infrastructure across the Pacific and South-East Asia "We are thrilled to collaborate with Applus+, a global leader in Inspection, Testing, and Certification services," said Gary Hill , Regional Director at Abyss Solutions. "By leading a disruption in the inspection industry, Applus+ is addressing challenges once considered unsolvable due to workforce shortages. We are excited to partner with them on this transformative journey." About Applus+: Applus+ is one of the world's leading and most innovative companies in the Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC) sector, offering a broad portfolio of services and solutions for customers across various industries. Its solutions ensure that assets and products meet quality, health & safety and environmental standards and regulations, while also enhancing performance. Headquartered in Spain , the company operates in more than 70 countries and employs over 26,000 people. The Applus+ Group drives profitable revenue growth through sustainable services and digitalisation at all levels. About Abyss Solutions: Abyss is pioneering the future of inspection at scale, providing products and solutions that enables autonomous robots to capture and analyze data at an unprecedented level. Its industry-leading technology is pushing the boundaries of the possible, going beyond the status quo to deliver billions of dollars in risk reduction for some of the world's biggest companies. We've curated the brightest minds in autonomy who strive to help protect the world's most valuable assets and resources, delivering the insights needed to inform preventative maintenance programs, exceed health and safety targets, and significantly reduce CO2. SOURCE Abyss Solutions PTY LTD

LAKE FOREST, Ill. — Ryan Poles, the general manager of the Chicago Bears , sat silently on the podium. For nearly 8 1/2 minutes, he didn’t say a word. Poles wasn’t being stoic, he was just being Bigfooted by his boss, president/CEO Kevin Warren, who began Monday’s “We fired Matt Eberflus three days ago” news conference with a lengthy monologue that let everyone know he’s in charge. Advertisement As Bears chairman George McCaskey watched, Warren talked and talked and Poles sat there, looking smaller than his listed height of 6-foot-4. He looked miserable and you would have too. Beyond the awkwardness of it, the reason we were gathered together was because the Bears had failed in historic fashion under Poles’ stewardship. What’s there to smile about? President and CEO Kevin Warren and GM Ryan Poles are speaking with the media https://t.co/QDLNv46kCW — Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) December 2, 2024 In the long, winding history of the Bears, a head coach had never been fired during the season until Friday. Not Jim Dooley or Abe Gibron or Dave Wannstedt or Marc Trestman or Matt Nagy. But Eberflus, who came in together with Poles in 2022, was so bad at obvious late-game coaching situations that he had to be let go the day after Thanksgiving, as Bears players and fans were still full of turkey and bile. It was absolutely necessary to break with precedent there, and it was not only a good move for the organization’s future, but the timing allowed Poles to get a head start on finding the right guy to fill Eberflus’ empty sweatsuit. Because if Poles doesn’t get this right, there will be a news conference explaining his firing in a couple of years and he won’t be around to talk at all. GO DEEPER The Bears finally fired Matt Eberflus. But he lost the locker room long ago In the final episode of “Hard Knocks” — which should be rewatched like the Blair Witch Project — Poles famously said, “It’s time to win.” Of course, at his introductory press conference, he also said “We’re going to take the (NFC) North and never give it back.” You know what, maybe he shouldn’t talk. Thursday’s loss in Detroit pushed the Bears’ division record under Eberflus to 2-13 with three NFC North games left this season. The 2024 team was 4-2 at the bye and is now 4-8 with five to play under interim coach Thomas Brown. If they win twice, I’ll be shocked. Brown, who had just replaced Shane Waldron as the offensive coordinator, is now auditioning for the full-time job as head coach. He spoke Monday and you can see why everyone likes him so much. He’s confident, funny and comfortable in his own skin. But as decent as the offense has looked in recent weeks, it hasn’t resulted in enough points and obviously in zero victories. Brown should get an interview, but at this stage, that’s about it. On one hand, I could see the Bears doing the lazy thing, hiring him and trumpeting it as finding “our Mike Tomlin.” But Warren seems to have higher expectations than promoting from within or hiring the defensive coordinator of the Indianapolis Colts . “This will be the most coveted job in the National Football League this year,” he said. I do like his confidence. But if that were true, most of the reasoning has to do with quarterback Caleb Williams , who has shown great promise through a trying rookie season. Is it true? I think a lot of coaches would be happy with the job and certainly, every coach’s agent will want his clients mentioned with the job, but there will be those who would rather go elsewhere. Especially if they’ve been paying attention. “Bears head coach” has the longevity of a Major League Baseball hitting coach, which is to say you’ll last a few years and then get blamed for everything. Advertisement The perfect coach would have to be enamored with Williams (unlike Nagy and Mitch Trubisky ) and confident that Poles has staying power as the GM. In fact, they’d have to be confident that Poles can do this job. Sure, he can fleece the Carolina Panthers , but what else has he really done? To me, this seems more like another Bears-created mismatch scenario than a sunshine-and-touchdowns job opportunity, but maybe I’ve just covered this team too long to be able to think optimistically. One reason I’m skeptical is Warren, who made it clear he’ll have a major voice on this move. Warren was hired in January and the focus of his job was to get the team’s new stadium situation in order, and that hasn’t happened. The Bears own land in Arlington Heights and Warren seems dead-set on keeping the team in the city, despite several hurdles. I guess it’s a lot easier (and more fun) to hire a new coach than figure out where to put a stadium and how to pay for it. But Warren wakes up before the rooster crows, so he’ll have enough time to be heavily involved in both searches that will determine the future of this franchise. “As Ryan said, these next five to six weeks are critical,” Warren said. “And you hate saying that decisions are going to set the trajectory of the franchise over the next 10 to 15 to 20 years, this is one that will.” Whether or not you think Poles has done a good job so far, I think he should have the opportunity to hire his next head coach by himself, just by virtue of his job title. Maybe he’ll screw it up again, but at least it won’t be a shotgun wedding like the last time around. GO DEEPER Who could be the Bears' next head coach? Here are 15 potential candidates In his opening statement, and in his answers to follow-up questions, Warren said he will be much more than a sounding board. Poles will be “the point person” but he’ll be very involved. “Now we will work in tandem,” Warren said. “We will work closely. We will together on a daily basis to make sure that we bring the best person to the Chicago Bears as our permanent head football coach. You have our word on that. It will be an exhaustive search. It will be organized. It will be diligent. We will do it the right way.” Advertisement When Warren was asked who has the “final say” in the hire, he responded: “One of the things, again, we’re focused on, is ‘final say’ is doing what’s right for the best interest of the Chicago Bears,” he said. “So I’m confident. I’ve never been concerned about final say or whatever. Ryan, he’s general manager, he leads our football operation, he’ll serve as the point person. We will be in contact, just like we were over the last 72 hours. We will spend multiple hours a day until we make this hire. So from a final say standpoint, I mean, ultimately, he’s the general manager, but I think in working together it’ll be very clear who’s the right person for the Chicago Bears.” I pointed out to Warren that they might have different opinions on, say, two finalists. Someone has to make the call. Who does it? “We’ll work that out,” he said. “Ryan is the general manager. He’s the head of football operations, so he will have the final say if it ever got to that point, but I’m confident that we will work through it because the good thing about it is so long as we keep the center of our decisions what’s in the best interest of the Chicago Bears, our players, as we go forward, it will become clear as far as who is the person to lead this franchise from a football standpoint, from a coaching standpoint.” Not exactly an inspiring answer for Poles, who was hired two years before Warren came over from the Big Ten Conference. Who wants to have their boss lording over you for a decision that only you will be held accountable for? Poles said they haven’t figured out who else will be involved with the hire, but he did use the term “think tank,” which is the first time anyone has associated those words with Halas Hall in a non-derisive way. Never forget, it was a Bears hiring committee that interviewed Bruce Arians and Trestman and picked Trestman. But that’s all history, right? Advertisement “Let’s put the past in the past,” Warren said. “Let’s start today and go forward and work together because I don’t want to burn any energy on what has happened in the past. We can learn from it. We all know that we can do better and we will do better.” You know, I think we’ve heard that before up in Lake Forest. “We will get this right and we’ll be sitting up here in the future,” Warren said. “We’ll look back on to this day and say this was the (starting point) ... to build the franchise that all of us know that we want to build.” I think we’ve heard that up here too. But as Warren noted, the past can teach you a lot. He’d be wise to listen. Because at Halas Hall, the past keeps repeating itself and the only thing that changes are the names. Required reading (Top photo of Ryan Poles listening as Kevin Warren speaks: Nam Y. Huh / Associated Press)

Kerry O’Keeffe believes Virat Kohli’s shoulder bump on Sam Konstas sent a poor message and could affect his legacy, while a chrous of greats said he was lucky to avoid a suspension. Watch every ball of Australia v India LIVE & ad-break free during play in 4K on Kayo | New to Kayo? Get your first month for just $1. Limited time offer . Kohli escaped with a fine of 20 per cent of his match fee after appearing to change direction and bump into Konstas during his breathtaking debut knock of 60 off 65 balls on day one of the Boxing Day Test. Konstas smashed six fours and two towering sixes, but his innings was overshadowed by an altercation with Kohli, after the pair clashed in-between overs. O’Keeffe believes Kohli was absolutely in the wrong and while he didn’t want to see the champion suspended for the incident, he admits it was a poor look for the game. “If it was a 100 metre sprint, Virat started in lane six and finished in lane two,” O’Keeffe said on Fox Cricket’s Test Daily. “Automatic disqualification, you can’t change lanes. “A level two offence code of conduct for inappropriate contact is two demerit points. He got one so no suspension and a fine. I think its about right. “But the message it sent was poor to those youngsters that play around the world. You do not shoulder bump between overs regardless of how involved you are in the game.” DAY 1 TALKING POINTS: How Sam solved Aussies’ opener problem AND broke India; why Kohli wasn’t banned ‘COMPLETELY ACTED WRONG’: Kohli shock as star to avoid ban for ‘ridiculous’ clash with Aussie teen After 9,166 runs in 121 Tests at an average of 47.49, including 30 centuries and 31 50s, Kohli’s Test career is at the crossroads, despite a century in Perth. O’Keeffe wants Kohli to be remembered for his brilliance with the bat and not for his altercation with Konstas in the twilight of his career. “We know Virat Kohli what an outstanding player he is. He is a champion. His legacy should be that he is one of the greatest technicians to ever play the game. “But this is a curtain call for him this tour of Australia and sadly at the moment, unless he displays some outstanding form in the next few innings, that shoulder bump will stay in people’s minds and it shouldn’t because this guy has graced the game with distinction. “I don’t think I have seen a better technical player than Virat Kohli, but he had a bad day yesterday and it is a reflection of how skittish he has been through the series. “He has been out four times nicking off playing and hastening too quickly. Getting too involved in his innings too early. “That’s in Australia’s favour that he might be off the bit. He had a bad day at the office. He will recover, but the story is Konstas.” Bhogle believes Kohli was lucky to not be suspended after being fined 20 per cent of his match fee, but given his standing in the game he may have been given some leeway. “I think he has been very lucky,” Bhogle said. “I think the match referee has taken a slightly lenient view. I was fearing the worst, but when I saw that verdict I just wonder if they had given him the benefit of the doubt because otherwise I feared worse.” Kohli has had a tough tour after an altercation with media at the airport and his struggles with the bat, but Bhogle doesn’t believe the Konstas incident is connected to an underlining theme in India’s rollercoaster tour, that has also seen Ravi Ashwin retire mid-series. “I think those are little individual matches being lit,” Bhogle said. “There isn’t a big fire anywhere. I think they are unconnected events, but on Virat Kohli I have a slightly different perspective. “When you are on the field you are governed by the laws of the game and where there is laws of the game, there is a match referee and a code of behaviour and a code of punishment and all that is separate. “When you talk about the airport, you are not talking about a cricketer, you are talking about Katy Perry or Robbie Williams and that level of intrusion that they face in their life. “It could have been another case of intrusion. It could have been a misunderstanding on Kohli’s part, but I do understand that they can get edgy at that level of stardom. “When you look at Virat Kohli in a public place, you are not just looking at a cricketer. You are looking at George Clooney and that level of stardom. “It comes with the edginess that surrounds everything, so at the airport he will always be edgy, so I’m not reading into what happened at the airport too much. It might have been a misunderstanding for all that we know. “On the field it is a very different story. I don’t think there is a bigger fire. I think the bigger fire is getting Steve Smith out today.” But Adam Gilchrist questioned the merit in fining millionaire cricketers as a deterrent for behaviour. “I don’t think a financial fine is really going to effect any one of these players,” Gilchrist said. “They earn significant money and it is not going to change the dial too much. “But that fine and one demerit point is the same punishment as Mohammad Siraj and Travis Head got when they had a little verbal altercation and that was just heat of the moment. But that is the same punishment for Kohli.” Indian legend Ravi Shastri believes Kohli will regret his actions in the Konstas altercation and can consider himself lucky he isn’t missing the Sydney Test. “I think when he looks back at it Virat, he will think he is a little lucky with that kind of punishment,” Shastri said. “The umpires look at track record over the last couple of years and your track record and how you behave individually over some length of time. Then they come up with the punishment. “The last thing I would like to see on a cricket field is physical contact. You don’t want that. This is sport. There is a line you draw and you don’t walk past that line. “Virat has been a former captain. He is a very senior player. He has been on that stage for more than a decade and a half and when he looks back at that he won’t be too proud about it. “One just hopes he learns from it. People do make mistakes and in the heat of the moment things can go awry, but I’m sure when he sees that again he will react differently in the future.” Mark Waugh condemned Kohli’s actions and stressed physical altercations have no place on a cricket field. “I think it was a bit of the old bull and the young bull locking horns, but you just can’t do that,” Waugh said. “You can’t change direction and shoulder charge. It is just not on. Virat Kohli will look back on that and say, I’ve done the wrong thing. “I think the penalty is extremely lenient. A 20 per cent match payment fine. The penalty has got to be a deterrent. “If you put this situation where there might be a volatile crowd for example, and players are more volatile on the field it could end up in a place you don’t want to see on a cricket field. “I think he is lucky not to get away with a suspension and if he has got a fine it should have been at least a 75 per cent fine. “It has to be a deterrent. 20 per cent is nothing. There is no doubt Sam Konstas rattled the Indians. “It was interesting Kohli took it into his own hands and he will regret what he did yesterday.” Waugh also believes Kohli is past his best as a batter and needs to show more patience in the longest form of the game. “He made a hundred earlier in the series which I thought was going to turn his form around,” Waugh said. “He’s not the player he was, there’s no doubt about it. He’s less patient, to me, he’s less willing to do the hard yards. “Sachin Tendulkar once came to Australia and never cover drove one ball in an innings that he got 160. Virat Kohli, he’s got to be more disciplined, he’s got to be more patient. At the moment, he doesn’t look willing to do the hard yarns with the bat. “I think he’s still got the ability; whether he’s got the hunger, that is a different story. But maybe this brings the best out of him, when you’re 1-1 and you need a big hundred from your best player.”None

The mammograms that DON'T spot breast cancer: Why some women have a condition that makes tumours harder to detect - and puts them at greater risk of getting cancer

Week 13 has been a busy one on the NFL calendar, with three games on Thursday, one on Friday, and 11 on Sunday. Now, we settle in for one remaining game as Monday Night Football takes center stage. The Denver Broncos welcome the Cleveland Browns into the Mile High City for tonight’s game as they look to solidify their hold on the seventh seed in the AFC playoff picture . Denver enters the game at 7-5 on the season, holding the final wild card position in the conference. The Browns are 4-8, looking to turn around a rough season and potentially climb back into the race in the AFC. Who will win tonight’s game? Our contributors are here to bring you their predictions, along with a look at the current odds ahead of kickoff. Tonight’s game starts at 8:15 p.m. Eastern on ESPN. There is no ManningCast tonight. What are the latest FanDuel sportsbook odds? The Broncos come in as heavy favorites for this game, sitting at -6.5 for the spread. They are -295 on the moneyline for the straight-up win while the Browns are +240 for the upset. The point total is 41.5. All odds are brought to us by FanDuel sportsbook . Who will win? Our contributors make their winners picks each week of the season. We mostly focus only on the straight-up winners. Some of the group, however, have also made picks against the spread and with the point total for each game. You can check out our picks, including the spread picks, in the widget below, provided to us by Tallysight . Here are our Monday picks for Week 13.FRISCO, Texas (AP) — A rare win as a double-digit underdog came just in time to let the Dallas Cowboys believe their playoff hopes aren't completely gone in 2024. Cooper Rush probably will need three more victories in a row filling in for the injured Dak Prescott for any postseason talk to be realistic. The thing is, the Cowboys (4-7) could be favored in two of those games, and already are by four points as an annual Thanksgiving Day host against the New York Giants (2-9) on Thursday, according to BetMGM. Not to mention the losing record at the moment for each of the next four opponents for the defending NFC East champions, playoff qualifiers each of the past three seasons. The Cowboys have a chance to make something of the improbable and chaotic 34-26 win at Washington that ended a five-game losing streak. “Behind the eight ball,” Micah Parsons said, the star pass rusher acknowledging the reality that Dallas hadn't done much yet. “Let’s see how we can handle adversity and see if we can make a playoff run. But we got a long way to go.” It was a start, though, powered in part by the best 55 minutes from the Dallas defense since the opener, when the Cowboys dismantled Cleveland and looked the part of a Super Bowl contender. The last five minutes for the Dallas defense against the Commanders looked a lot like most of the nine games after that 33-17 victory over the Browns. Which is to say not very good. Jayden Daniels easily drove Washington 69 yards to a touchdown before throwing an 86-yard scoring pass in the final seconds to Terry McLaurin, who weaved through five defenders when a tackle might have ended the game. The Cowboys kept a 27-26 lead thanks to Austin Seibert's second missed extra point, and withstood another blunder when Juanyeh Thomas returned an onside kick recovery for a TD rather than slide and leave one kneel-down from Rush to end the game. Dallas will have to remember it did hold a dynamic rookie quarterback's offense to 251 yards before the madness of the ending in the Cowboys' biggest upset victory since 2010 at the New York Giants. That one was too late to save the season. This one might not be. “We needed it,” embattled coach Mike McCarthy said. “It’s been frustrating, no doubt. We’ve acknowledged that. We’ve got another one right around the corner here, so we have to get some wins and get some momentum.” Rush ended a personal three-game losing streak with his best showing since the previous time he won as the replacement for Prescott, who is out for the season after surgery for a torn hamstring. The 117.6 passer rating was Rush's best as a starter, and the NFL's second-worst rushing attack played a solid complementary role with Rico Dowdle gaining 86 yards on 19 carries. KaVontae Turpin's electrifying 99-yard kickoff return did more than lift the Cowboys when it appeared an 11-point lead might get away in the final five minutes. It eased the worst day of special teams for Dallas since John Fassel took over that phase four years ago. Suddenly struggling kicker Brandon Aubrey had one field-goal attempt blocked and missed another. Bryan Anger had a punt blocked. For the second time in five games, Aubrey's attempt to bounce a kickoff in front of the return man backfired. The ball bounced outside the landing zone, putting the Commanders at the 40-yard line to start the second half and setting up the drive to the game's first touchdown. CB Josh Butler, whose NFL debut earlier this season came five years after the end of his college career, had 12 tackles, a sack and three pass breakups. The pass breakups were the most by an undrafted Dallas player since 1994. Rookie LT Tyler Guyton, who has had an up-and-down season with injuries and performance issues, was benched immediately after getting called for a false start in the fourth quarter. His replacement, Asim Richards, could be sidelined with a high ankle sprain that executive vice president of personnel Stephen Jones revealed on his radio show Monday. Veteran Chuma Edoga, who was the projected starter at Guyton's position before a preseason toe injury, was active but didn't play against the Commanders. He's awaiting his season debut. The status of perennial All-Pro RG Zack Martin (ankle/shoulder) and LG Tyler Smith (ankle/knee) will be a question on the short week after both sat against Washington. Stephen Jones indicated Smith could be available and said the same of WR Brandin Cooks, who hasn't played since Week 4 because of a knee issue. TE Jake Ferguson may miss at least a second week with a concussion. The short week might make it tough for CB Trevon Diggs (groin/knee) to return. 75% — Rush's completion rate, his best with at least 10 passes. He was 24 of 32 for 247 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. His other game with multiple TDs and no picks was a 25-10 victory over Washington two years ago, when he went 4-1 with Prescott sidelined by a broken thumb. There's some extra rest after the short week, with Cincinnati making a “Monday Night Football” visit on Dec. 9. The next road game is at Carolina on Dec. 15. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

Patrik Laine set the Bell Centre ablaze last night with his first goal of the season. The fans were loud after seeing him score, and the crowd reaction was perfect. Like, PERFECT . After the game, the sniper said he didn’t deserve all the screaming... And he didn’t deserve the standing ovation . Welcome to Montreal, Patrik! That said, the fans already love him, because everyone knows how hard it’s been for him in the past. And the guys at HFTV have already created a song for him: The Patrik Laine song was dormant for 3 months... until last night pic.twitter.com/6bVHvUKogU – HFTV (@HFTVSports) December 4, 2024 Laine clearly felt the love from the fans and it made for a beautiful moment. When the fans are on your side, it’s easier to produce on the ice. And God knows, Laine has the support of the Habs fans! At this level, Jean-Luc Grand-Pierre (BPM Sports ) thinks that Laine might be willing to sign at a discount to stay in Montreal if he’s having fun in Montreal and the fans continue to give him so much love. The idea is interesting: Patrik Laine had a tough time in Winnipeg and Columbus, but if he’s enjoying himself in Montreal, he might want to sign for less to stay here! @JLGP34 pic.twitter.com/JtlJCargYv – BPM Sports (@BPMSportsRadio) December 4, 2024 Patrik Laine earns an annual salary of $8.7m and his contract expires at the end of the 25-26 season. What I mean by that is that Kent Hughes still has time to watch him before making his decision. But if Laine produces up to his potential, fills the net and wants to stay in town while still being able to be healthy... the idea of extending his contract will become really interesting for the Canadiens. Kent Hughes is constantly looking to improve his club, and a healthy Laine can help the team on the ice. And if Laine stays, Demidov arrives and Michael Hage becomes an impact player in the NHL, the Habs will have ammunition to go to war on offense : Slaf – Suzuki – Caufield Laine – Dach – Demidov Newhook – Hage – ? That’s a lot of talent, and obviously some things can change between now and then. But seeing Laine stay in Montreal, conditions permitting, would fill a direct need in the Canadiens’ line-up. Overtime – Indeed. Ward: That’s excitement on steroids for locker room https://t.co/HK3D9HFgkp – TSN 690 Montreal (@TSN690) December 4, 2024 – That’s normal. Seguin sidelined: How Stars plan to navigate “big hole” left in forward’s absence https://t.co/TuRrm4wvYy – Mike Heika (@MikeHeika) December 4, 2024 – Great contest : Win a privileged experience at a Canadiens game, thanks to @Miseojeu+ ! Be part of the action ↓ #GoHabsGo – Montreal Canadiens (@CanadiensMTL) December 4, 2024 – Reminder: there are four games tonight in the NHL. A four-game slate sees the @MapleLeafs and @PredsNHL open a doubleheader on @Sportsnet while an @NHL_On_TNT and @SportsonMax two-pack begins with an Original Six showdown between the @NHLBruins and @NHLBlackhawks also broadcast on @TVASports .#NHLStats: https://t.co/Csqd3rxE1D pic.twitter.com/HV8xRAVoSw – NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) December 4, 2024 – Too bad for the Spurs. Wembanyama on the sidelineshttps://t.co/6RXI4TNiRC – RDS (@RDSca) December 4, 2024 This article first appeared on Dose.ca and was syndicated with permission.Consumers in the United States scoured the internet for online deals as they looked to take advantage of the post-Thanksgiving shopping marathon with Cyber Monday. Even though e-commerce is now part and parcel of many people's regular routines and the holiday shopping season, Cyber Monday — a term coined in 2005 by the National Retail Federation — has become the biggest online shopping day of the year, thanks to the deals and the hype the industry has created to fuel it. Adobe Analytics, which tracks online shopping, expected consumers to spend $13.2 billion Monday — a record, and 6.1% more than last year. That would make it the biggest shopping day for e-commerce for the season — and the year. Online spending was expected to peak between the hours of 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Monday night, per Adobe — reaching an estimated $15.7 million spent every minute. For several major retailers, a Cyber Monday sale is a dayslong event that began over the Thanksgiving weekend. An Amazon Prime delivery person lifts packages while making a stop Nov. 28, 2023, in Denver. Amazon kicked off its sales event right after midnight Pacific time on Saturday. Target's two days of discount offers on its website and app began overnight Sunday. Walmart rolled out its Cyber Monday offers for Walmart+ members Sunday afternoon and opened it up to all customers three hours later, at 8 p.m. Eastern time. Consumer spending for Cyber Week — the five major shopping days between Thanksgiving and Cyber Monday — provides a strong indication of how much shoppers are willing to spend for the holidays. Many U.S. consumers continue to experience sticker shock after the period of post-pandemic inflation, which left prices for many goods and services higher than they were three years ago. But retail sales nonetheless remain strong, and the economy kept growing at a healthy pace. At the same time, credit card debt and delinquencies are rising. More shoppers than ever are also on track to use "buy now, pay later" plans this holiday season, which allows them to delay payments on holiday decor, gifts and other items. Many economists also warned that President-elect Donald Trump's plan to impose tariffs next year on foreign goods coming into the United States would lead to higher prices on everything from food to clothing to automobiles. A FedEx delivery person carries a package from a truck Nov. 17, 2022, in Denver. The National Retail Federation expects holiday shoppers to spend more this year both in stores and online than last year. But the pace of spending growth will slow slightly, the trade group said, growing 2.5% to 3.5% — compared to 3.9% in 2023. A clear sense of consumer spending patterns during the holiday season won't emerge until the government releases sales data for the period, but some preliminary data from other sources shows some encouraging signs for retailers. Vivek Pandya, lead analyst at Adobe Digital Insights, noted that discounts from Thanksgiving onward "exceeded expectations" and online spending throughout Cyber Week is on track to cross a record $40 billion mark combined. U.S. shoppers spent $10.8 billion online on Black Friday, a 10.2% increase over last year, according to Adobe Analytics. That's also more than double what consumers spent in 2017, when Black Friday pulled in about $5 billion in online sales. Consumers also spent a record $6.1 billion online on Thanksgiving Day, Adobe said. Meanwhile, software company Salesforce, which also tracks online shopping, estimated that Black Friday online sales totaled $17.5 billion in the U.S. and $74.4 billion globally. Mastercard SpendingPulse, which tracks in-person and online spending, reported that overall Black Friday sales excluding automotive rose 3.4% from a year ago. A United Parcel Service driver sorts deliveries July 15, 2023, on New York's Upper West Side. E-commerce platform Shopify said its merchants raked in a record $5 billion in sales worldwide on Black Friday. At its peak, sales reached $4.6 million per minute — with top categories by volume including clothing, cosmetics and fitness products, according to the Canadian company. Toys, electronics, home goods, self-care and beauty categories were among the key drivers of holiday spending on Thanksgiving and Black Friday, according to Adobe. "Hot products" included Lego sets, espresso machines, fitness trackers, makeup and skin care. Other data showed physical stores saw fewer customers on Black Friday, underscoring how the huge crowds that were once synonymous with the day after Thanksgiving are now more than happy to shop from the comfort of their homes. RetailNext, which measures real-time foot traffic in stores, said its early data showed store traffic on Friday was down 3.2% in the U.S. compared to last year, with the biggest dip happening in the Midwest. Sensormatic Solutions, which also tracks store traffic, said its preliminary analysis showed retail store traffic on Black Friday was down 8.2% compared to 2023. Grant Gustafson, head of retail consulting and analytics at Sensormatic Solutions, noted that in-store traffic was getting spread across multiple days since many retailers offered generous discounts before and after Black Friday. "Some of the extended Black Friday promotions really ended up leading to a little bit of a softer day-of traffic than expected," Gustafson said. In 2024, staying small on purpose seems to be paying off big for small businesses. They're keeping operations small and targeting niche, highly specialized customers. And some business owners find this strategy results in more time, energy, and money to intentionally capitalize on unique, small cap opportunities. The data tells the story of growth in small businesses for the year. According to NEXT , the Small Business Administration (SBA) reports awarding 38,000 SBA 7(a) loans under $150,000: double the amount they awarded in 2020. Here are the related small-business trends paying off in 2024. Commercial real estate agent Ryan Beckenhauer of Market Real Estate in Boulder, Colorado, has noticed that small businesses are growing smaller, and that their office and warehouse spaces are starting to reflect that as they shop for business space. In commercial real estate, many small business owners gravitate toward industrial condos and other flexible spaces. These are small-scale industrial spaces with a 90:10 or 80:20 split of warehouse to office. "More individuals are leveraging skills acquired at larger organizations to venture out on their own," explains Beckenhauer. And he goes on to say that they don't need a large commercial space as they make that leap to start a business. His clients include engineers, consultants, builders and other tradespeople. Beckenhauer's clients like the flexibility of being out of an office and being close to their inventory and workshop space. "The clients want to see and touch the finishes," he says. Small business owners both rent or buy these spaces. But he's seeing his clients opt to own industrial condos to stabilize costs due to rent increases in Boulder. And because these spaces are smaller, it can be easier for new buyers to qualify for financing. Mariana Alvarez, owner of Controller Works , an online bookkeeping and advisory firm, has noticed that small business owners outsource financial support services because they don't want to increase headcount. "Outsourcing gives them the possibility of having access to the knowledge and the skills of a CFO without having to pay for the salary," she says. "They don't have to manage or deal with the workload, employment taxes , and all that comes with it," says Alvarez. Additionally, many small business owners in fields like construction are family-owned, and this makes it easier for business owners to hand off delicate financial work to a trusted person with financial experience. Every small business has recurring tasks that can benefit from some level of artificial intelligence automation . And Alvarez sees a lot of value in using AI for small business bookkeeping. She explains that you can automate the data entry on Quickbooks. "When you create rules, as long as you create the rules correctly, it pretty much does itself," says Alvarez. From there, you can lean on financial experts to help you analyze the data and make more informed decisions. She uses AI as a background resource when guiding her accounting clients. "I believe that we still need the human-to-human interaction that comes with more perspective for financial analysis," she explains. According to the SBA , 77% of consumers feel that human interaction is still required for a positive customer experience. People turn to small businesses every day for a human experience. According to Arvind Rongala, CEO of Edstellar , small business workers can show up for their customers but still use AI for routine tasks like customer queries. "This balance allows companies to scale their operations without losing the personal touch that makes them unique. It's important to remember that AI isn't there to replace the human element—it's there to enhance it," he says. "By really focusing on one very small weakness that Amazon has, I've been able to carve out a successful business by offering something different," says Lou Harvey owner of Tank Retailer , a retailer of commercial water and fuel tanks. "When you read our customer reviews, many of them actually mention me by name because of how much we focus on customer service and go the extra mile." One of Harvey's most successful business strategies this year has been to lean into his small, niche market and offer the kind of customer experience that large retailers like Amazon don't. "Any small weaknesses that Amazon has (however small those weaknesses may be) needs to become a strength of a smaller business focusing on a niche market," says Harvey. Harvey has his company's customer service phone number front and center on the website to help earn customer trust. "I prominently feature our phone number, and a real person always answers the phone (usually it's me)," says Harvey. Lucie Voves, CEO and founder of Church Hill Classics , an online, woman-owned diploma framing company that uses sustainable materials, has noticed an uptick in customers seeking services from a business on a mission. "This year, we've seen a growing inclination for consumers to actively seek out and support small businesses owned by women and minorities," says Voves. When consumers shop small, they choose to make their dollars count. "Customers are fueled by a desire to promote social impact through purchasing power," says Voves. Long gone are the days of online retailers "building it and they will come." In 2024 we've seen more small businesses than ever turn to social commerce to sell directly on social media platforms like Instagram Shopping , Facebook Marketplace , and TikTok . Small business owners are turning toward influencers, social media ads, and organic content to target their customers. Mike Vannelli of Envy Creative creates online ads for businesses, and he has seen his clients succeed on TikTok of late. "I've seen businesses, especially in retail, use TikTok's short-form video format to make their products go viral. Think of it as word-of-mouth marketing on steroids," says Vannelli. He uses the platform's algorithm to push a company's content to the right audiences, and it works because TikTok loves storytelling. "I know small brands that use behind-the-scenes videos, customer testimonials, and even playful challenges that tap into trends to humanize their products and build trust," explains Vannelli. To stand out on TikTok, he says, smaller brands need to embrace authenticity and emotional connection. Show your team, share your journey, and involve your community in content creation. This story was produced by NEXT and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly.

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Consideration was given to recruiting women into Northern Ireland’s new police force on a 50:50 basis with men to address their “severe under-representation”, declassified files have revealed. However, legal advice was that a policy that half of new recruits to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) should be women was “not viable”, a memo from 2002 said. Stormont officials did seek legal advice that year on whether the new force’s policy of recruiting 50% of all officers from the Catholic community could be challenged as discriminatory towards ethnic minorities. Details are contained in documents held at the Public Record Office in Belfast. Hundreds of the files are being opened for public viewing under the 30/20 year rule. The majority of the files deal with events in 2003, although some are from earlier years. The PSNI replaced the RUC in 2001 following a number of reforms proposed by Lord Patten. Catholics had been under-represented in the RUC, so a 50:50 recruitment policy ran for the first decade, meaning one Catholic recruit for every one person from a Protestant or other background. A file shows an exchange of emails between civil servants in the Office of the First Minister/Deputy First Minister (OFMDFM) following a PSNI human rights conference hosted in October 2002. One of the emails was seeking further information on comments at the conference about recruiting people from ethnic minorities to the force. A responding email said: “It’s all about the Patten formula of 50/50 recruitment: 50% Roman Catholic and 50% Protestant and Others. Minority Ethnics fall into the Others. “The issue, at present, is that most applicants still fall into the latter category (around 65% from memory) so this increases the competition within this grouping and makes the candidate less likely to be successful – this could therefore disadvantage Minority Ethnics. “Joe (Stewart) suggested that options could be to move Minority Ethnics to the Roman Catholic Category or alternatively create a 3rd category, say of 2%. “The issue needs further consideration including how any requirement for change could be progressed.” Another email adds: “When the Race Directive was being negotiated, we drew NIO’s (Northern Ireland Office) attention to the 50/50 recruitment policy and suggested they might want to take this up as we thought it could potentially be discriminatory on the grounds of race (likely to be proportionally more non-RC ethnic minorities than RC). “NIO did not not pursue.” Within the file there are clippings from media reports at the time where concern is being raised about the impact of 50:50 recruitment on police numbers after then PSNI chief constable Hugh Orde announced he was axing the force’s band due to resource pressures. Another internal email was then sent on December 12 under the title “50/50 Recruitment and Race”. It says: “Consideration was also given to including women on a 50-50 basis but legal advice at the time was that this was not viable despite their severe under-representation in the police force.” It says the “50:50 split Catholic/non-Catholic has recently survived a legal challenge”. The email continues: “There may still be a point (although unpopular to argue) that the percentage ethnic minority is too small to claim disadvantage/indirect discrimination – ironically the higher the percentage population of ethnic minorities, the stronger would be the claim for advantage/indirect discrimination because the lower the chance of recruitment to the PSNI (ie because the larger the share of the non-Catholic pool). “Interestingly, a stronger challenge could be brought by a young person for age discrimination whom statistics consistently show is more likely to be not religious and so in the ‘non Catholic’ pool. “Politically, there could be difficulties because there is a high profile agenda in GB at present to recruit ethnic minorities into the police service post-Macpherson/Lawrence.” There is also a draft note seeking legal advice on the issue which states that the 50:50 recruitment policy “would seem to be incompatible with the implementation of the (Race) Directive”.Reniya Kelly scores 18 and No. 16 North Carolina women beat 14th-ranked Kentucky 72-53

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‘This is a privacy breach’: Woman says AT&T kept accidentally sending her client’s private information. She can’t believe customer service’s responseFormer Rangers star Scott Arfield loses appeal after plan to open pub near Ibrox rejectedWASHINGTON (AP) — In the two weeks since Donald Trump won the presidency, he's tried to demonstrate his dominance by naming loyalists for top administration positions, even though many lack expertise and some face sexual misconduct accusations. It often seems like he's daring Congress to oppose his decisions. But on Thursday, Trump's attempt to act with impunity showed a crack as Matt Gaetz , his choice for attorney general, withdrew from consideration. Trump had named Gaetz, a Florida congressman, to be the country's top law enforcement official even though he was widely disliked by his colleagues, has little legal experience and was accused of having sex with an underage girl, an allegation he denied. After being plagued by investigations during his first presidency, Trump wanted a devoted ally in charge of the Justice Department during his second. However, it was never obvious that Gaetz could win enough support from lawmakers to get confirmed as attorney general. Trump chose for a replacement Pam Bondi, a former Florida attorney general who defended him during his first impeachment trial and supported his false claims of voter fraud. Now the question is whether Gaetz was uniquely unpalatable, or if Trump's other picks might exceed his party's willingness to overlook concerns that would have sunk nominees in a prior political era. The next test will likely be Pete Hegseth, who Trump wants to lead the Pentagon despite an allegation of sexual assault that he's denied. So far, Republicans are rallying around Hegseth , an Army veteran and former Fox News host. Sen. Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican who serves on the Senate Judiciary Committee, said the controversy over Gaetz would have little bearing on Trump’s other choices. He said they would be considered “one at a time.” Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, suggested otherwise, claiming “the dominoes are falling.” “The drip drip of evidence and truth is going to eventually doom some others,” he said. Trump's election victory was a sign that there may not be many red lines left in American politics. He won the presidential race despite authoritarian, racist and misogynist rhetoric, not to mention years of lies about election fraud and his role in sparking the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. He was also criminally convicted of falsifying business records to pay hush money, and he was found liable for sexual abuse in a civil case. Empowered by voters who looked past his misconduct and saw him as a powerful agent of change, Trump has shown no deference to Washington norms while working to fill his second administration . The transition team hasn't pursued federal background checks for Trump's personnel choices. While some of his selections have extensive experience in the areas they've been chosen to lead, others are personal friends and Fox News personalities who have impressed and flattered Trump over the years. Several have faced allegations involving sexual misconduct . Hegseth is facing the most scrutiny after Gaetz. Once Trump announced Hegseth as his nominee for Pentagon chief, allegations emerged that he sexually assaulted a woman in California in 2017. The woman said he took her phone, blocked the door to the hotel room and refused to let her leave, according to a police report made public this week. Hegseth told police at the time that the encounter had been consensual and denied any wrongdoing, the report said. However, he paid the woman a confidential settlement in 2023. Hegseth's lawyer said the payment was made to head off the threat of a baseless lawsuit. Trump’s choice for secretary of health and human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has faced allegations of misconduct too. A woman who babysat for him and his second wife told Vanity Fair magazine that Kennedy groped her in the late 1990s, when she was 23. Kennedy did not deny the allegation and texted an apology to the woman after the article was published. That isn't the only hurdle for Kennedy; he's spent years spreading misinformation and conspiracy theories about vaccines, raising fears about making him a top health official in the new administration. Linda McMahon, chosen by Trump to be education secretary, is fighting a lawsuit connected to her former company, World Wrestling Entertainment. She’s accused of knowingly enabling sexual exploitation of children by an employee as early as the 1980s, and she denies the allegations. Tulsi Gabbard is another person who could face a difficult confirmation battle, but for very different reasons. The former Democratic representative from Hawaii has been a vocal Trump ally, and he chose her to be national intelligence director. But there's grave concern by lawmakers and national security officials over Gabbard’s history of echoing Russian propaganda. Critics said she would endanger relationships with U.S. allies. Gaetz was investigated by federal law enforcement for sex trafficking, but the case was closed without charges and Republicans have blocked the release of a related report from the House Ethics Committee. However, some allegations leaked out, including that Gaetz paid women for sex. One of the women testified to the committee that she saw Gaetz having sex with a 17-year-old girl, according to a lawyer for the woman. As Gaetz met with senators this week, it became clear that he would face stubborn resistance from lawmakers who were concerned about his behavior and believed he was unqualified to run the Justice Department. “While the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction,” Gaetz wrote on social media when announcing his withdrawal. Sen. Mike Braun, an Indiana Republican, said he believed there were four to six members of the caucus who would have voted against Gaetz, likely dooming his nomination, and “the math got too hard.” He said some of the issues and allegations around Gaetz were “maybe beyond the pale." “I think there were just too many things, it was like a leaky dike, and you know, it broke," Braun said. Trump thanked Gaetz in a post on Truth Social, his social media website, without addressing the substance of the allegations against him. “He was doing very well but, at the same time, did not want to be a distraction for the Administration, for which he has much respect,” Trump wrote. Associated Press writers Mary Clare Jalonick, Stephen Groves and Lisa Macaro contributed from Washington. Jill Colvin in New York and Adriana Gomez Licon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, also contributed. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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The bezel-less phone is still a dream, even though screen bezels have gotten progressively smaller over the past few years. Apple has reportedly been working with Samsung Display and LG Display on a bezel-less iPhone screen for many years already, but it's still not close to production. Originally, Apple wanted to release a "zero-bezel" iPhone in 2025 or 2026. A new report from Korea today states that even a release in 2026 currently isn't likely. That's because the technology just isn't there yet. Apple apparently wants to keep a flat screen but have it angled into the sides - a quad micro curve design we gather. That concept has gained a lot of steam recently with Chinese smartphone makers, but the report regarding Apple likens what the company wants to do to the design of the Apple Watch's screen. Either way, Apple doesn't want to curve the screen enough that there's distortion on the edges. The company seems to have a very specific idea about what it wants, but unfortunately it looks like this can't yet be implemented in mass production, so the dream of a zero-bezel iPhone will probably have to wait until at least 2027 to be realized. Source (in Korean)How to protect your communications through encryption

AAP_Distribution a3442 ha -----In an angry outburst in a New York courtroom, Rudy Giuliani accused a judge Tuesday of making wrong assumptions about him as he tries to comply with an order requiring him to turn over most of his assets to two election poll workers who won a libel case against him. U.S. District Judge Lewis J. Liman responded by saying he’s not going to let the former New York City mayor and onetime presidential candidate blurt things out anymore in court unless he’s a sworn witness. The interruption to an otherwise routine pretrial hearing in Manhattan came as the judge questioned Giuliani's lawyer about why Giuliani has not yet provided the title to a car he has relinquished in his effort to satisfy a $148 million defamation judgment won by two former Georgia election workers. “Your client was the U.S. attorney for this district,” the judge said, referring to Giuliani's years in the 1980s as the head of the federal prosecutor's office in the Southern District of New York, as he suggested it was hard to believe that Giuliani was incapable of getting a duplicate title to the car. Giuliani learned forward and began speaking into a microphone, telling the judge he had applied for a duplicate copy of the car's title but that it had not yet arrived. “The implication I’ve been not diligent about it is totally incorrect,” Giuliani said in a scolding tone. “The implication you make is against me and every implication against me is wrong.” Giuliani went on: "I’m not impoverished. Everything I have is tied up. I don’t have a car. I don’t have a credit card. I don’t have cash. I can’t get to bank accounts that truly would be mine because they have put ... stop orders on, for example, my Social Security account, which they have no right to do.” Liman responded by warning defense lawyers that the next time Giuliani interrupts a hearing, “he's not going to be permitted to speak and the court will take action.” The judge said Giuliani could either choose to represent himself or let lawyers do so, but “you can't have hybrid representation.” If Giuliani wants to speak in court again, he can be put on the witness stand and be sworn as a witness, Liman added. The exchange came at a hearing in which the judge refused to delay a Jan. 16 trial over the disposition of Giuliani’s Florida residence and World Series rings. Those are two sets of assets that Giuliani is trying to shield from confiscation as part of Liman's order to turn over many prized possessions to the poll workers. Earlier in the proceeding, defense attorney Joseph M. Cammarata asked Liman to delay the trial, which will be heard without a jury, for a month because of Giuliani's “involvement" in inauguration planning for President-elect Donald Trump. “My client regularly consults and deals directly with President-elect Trump on issues that are taking place as the incoming administration is afoot as well as (the) inauguration," Cammarata said. "My client wants to exercise his political right to be there.” The judge turned down the request, saying Giuliani's “social calendar” was not a reason to postpone the trial. Giuliani, who once served as Trump's personal attorney, was found liable last year for defaming two Georgia poll workers by falsely accusing them of tampering with ballots during the 2020 presidential election. The women said they faced death threats after Giuliani falsely claimed they sneaked in ballots in suitcases, counted ballots multiple times and tampered with voting machines.TEHRAN – In a powerful address during the Student Day ceremony at the Sharif University of Technology, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared that Iran will not retreat in the face of any power, emphasizing the nation's strength and resilience. Addressing a gathering of students and professors, Pezeshkian underscored the vital role of youth in shaping the country’s future. Highlighting the significance of Student Day as a platform for demanding rights, Pezeshkian remarked, "Students are the hope for the country's future." He praised their ability to express their views freely, stating, "A student is not dependent on positions and ranks; they can speak the truth and defend rights without fear." Pezeshkian drew attention to recent student protests in the United States and Europe against the ongoing Israeli violence in Gaza and Lebanon, contrasting them with the relatively muted response from Iranian universities. He urged students to raise their voices against injustices, saying, "When a group of killers claims to advocate for human rights while committing atrocities, it is essential to protest against that." Elsewhere in his address, Pezeshkian emphasized the importance of capable individuals stepping forward to achieve the nation’s vision as outlined by the Leader of the Islamic Revolution. "The country belongs to you," Pezeshkian declared, calling for unity among the youth to bring about necessary changes in leadership. He underscored that for the nation to progress toward its envisioned future, elite and competent individuals must take charge while those lacking capability must step aside. The president highlighted the need for a stronger connection between government and universities, stating, "Our universities are of the second generation. They need to be upgraded to the third and fourth generations." He elaborated that a fourth-generation university is one that integrates with society to address real-world problems, while a fifth-generation institution should be focused on long-term goals, looking a century into the future. Addressing Iranian student movements, Pezeshkian expressed his expectations for them to become advocates for rights, emphasizing that such advocacy transcends political affiliations. "Advocates for rights do not recognize left or right. We must dialogue together," he said. He stressed the importance of informed decision-making, insisting that policies should be grounded in scientific research, international experience, and expert consultation. The president also highlighted the critical need for Iran to implement Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards internally, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in financial transactions. He urged students and academics to collaborate in addressing systemic issues that he said hinder the nation’s economic stability. The president called for a united effort from universities and elite professionals to tackle these challenges, stating, "With the help of universities and elites, we can solve problems." Speaking on the matter of official appointments, Pezeshkian explained that the selection process for managers is based on individual capabilities, social capabilities, and structural capabilities. He emphasized the importance of education and communication skills in determining leadership potential. He posed a critical question regarding societal cohesion: "Are our doctors, engineers, merchants, and industrialists currently moving towards a clear goal, or is everyone moving in a different direction?" Pezeshkian argued that a society with well-defined goals and collaborative efforts among its professionals is more likely to thrive than one where individuals operate in isolation. As part of his ongoing efforts to improve governance, Pezeshkian announced plans for a meeting with newly appointed governors to discuss strategies for enhancing local administration and addressing community needs. He remains optimistic about the potential for collective action to create a more organized and purposeful society.

The Pew Research poll from this summer found that 56% of Americans say the government is “almost always wasteful and inefficient.” Gallup’s recent polling data shows that 55% of Americans say the government is doing “too much” while only 41% say it should do more. Americans are more evenly split how big the government should be, but increasing government efficiency has more broad support. “Gallup polling earlier this year showed that 58% of Americans are dissatisfied with the size and power of the federal government,” Gallup said. “A slight majority of Americans say the government has too much power. Seven in 10 Americans in 2019 agreed that businesses can do things more efficiently than the federal government.” The survey comes after President-elect Donald Trump won the White House and issued broad, sweeping plans to decrease the scope of the federal government. To accomplish this task, Trump appointed businessman Vivek Ramaswamy and billionaire Elon Musk to lead the new Department of Government Efficiency. “Together, these two wonderful Americans will pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies – Essential to the ‘Save America’ Movement,’” Trump said in his announcement. Both Ramaswamy and Musk have publicly issued scathing remarks about the waste of federal resources currently occurring in Washington, D.C. Ramaswamy, for instance, has laid out a specific plan on how thousands of federal workers could be fired. The pair of businessmen have said publicly DOGE could cut $2 trillion in federal spending. Ramaswamy and Musk visited Capitol Hill on Thursday to meet with lawmakers to discuss the potential cuts, which could even include ideas as drastic as eliminating the Department of Education and returning that responsibility to the states. Trump's allies have also discussed cutting spending on diversity, equity and inclusion programs, which are seen by Trump's camp as taxpayer-funded investment in woke ideology. Whether such stark actions would be supported by Americans remains unclear, but for now the latest polling shows Americans want something to be done. On top of that, Americans’ desire for smaller government seems to be more than a momentary political phase. “Gallup has asked this question annually over the past 24 years. On average, 52% of Americans have said the government is doing too much, compared with 42% saying the government should do more...” Gallup said. “Only twice have more Americans chosen the ‘government should do more’ alternative over the ‘government doing too much’ alternative -- in 2001 after the 9/11 terrorist attacks and in 2020 after the outbreak of COVID-19.”lululemon athletica inc. Announces Third Quarter Fiscal 2024 ResultsBy KAITLYN HUAMANI The commencement of the holiday season often means the lengthening of to-do lists. There are lights to hang, cards to mail , cookies to bake and, of course, gifts to buy . Gift exchanges, whether they’re among friends, family or co-workers, can be a fun way to get in the holiday spirit. But can also be another stressor during a busy time of year. Secret Santa exchanges — where participants are assigned a gift recipient and tasked with finding them a perfect present within a price limit — sometimes mean that those in friend groups are paired with “frenemies,” someone inevitably draws themselves, or colleagues who are virtually strangers are matched up. Those possible pitfalls inspired Peter Imburg to create Elfster , a free online Secret Santa organizer, after he saw the time and effort it took to coordinate the logistics of a gift exchange with his family over 20 years ago. More top-down organization, he says, helps things run more smoothly. Elfster, for instance, creates pairings, asks for wish lists, offers gift suggestions at different price points and sends reminders, among other features meant to make the organizational hurdles of a gift exchange less daunting. “The organizer is like the hero. They make it all happen,” Imburg said, adding that his site aims “to make it a lot easier for the organizer to do that with a minimal amount of effort.” Cameron Rogers, a New Jersey-based social media content creator and podcast host on wellness and motherhood, understands the stress that gift exchanges can bring up. “Having to give generic gifts to people I’m not necessarily close with is extremely difficult,” Rogers said. “I can pick a good gift for my husband or my kids or my mom, but for people who I don’t know the ins and outs of their lives, I think it’s hard to pick something that you know they’re actually going to enjoy.” Related Articles Health | Researchers launch “moonshot” to cure blindness through eye transplants Health | Nursing homes fell behind on vaccinating patients for COVID Health | A twice-yearly shot could help end AIDS. But will it get to everyone who needs it? Health | States poised to end coverage for millions if Trump cuts Medicaid funding Health | What’s new for Medicare in 2025? She recently shared a guide to Secret Santa gifts under $50 on her social media channels, emphasizing how challenging it can be to find something within a set price range that will be well-received. Gifts with a specific purpose — kitchen gadgets, home items or winter gear — and gifts that have a personalized aspect like a monogram are good go-to options for anyone feeling lost after receiving their Secret Santa assignment, she said. Imburg said the “gift gurus” at Elfster also have suggestions, especially for recipients who aren’t offering any clues as to what they’d like. In a similar vein as Rogers, the Elfster team offered ideas for some practical gifts, like water bottles, blankets and massage guns. Other no-nonsense home and kitchen items, like food storage containers, charging stations and more are featured on the site’s “Top Trending Gift Ideas for 2024” list. Gift cards, although they are not particularly glamorous, are an essentially foolproof option, Rogers said, and they won’t leave your recipient wondering where they’ll find room on their shelf for another mug or book. “I don’t want to give someone something solely to check a box,” Rogers said. “I want them to enjoy it, instead of being like, ‘What do I do with this now?’” Some gift-givers find that Secret Santa (and its many counterparts like White Elephant and Yankee Swap) actually cuts down on stress and spending, as it’s often done in place of giving individual presents to each member of a group. Nicole Troiano of Cranston, Rhode Island, finds them to be a fun way to handle holidays with large groups — even if co-workers may need to ask around to get specifics on their assigned person. “It’s fun to do it that way and think about something that would be good for that person,” she said. “And then, when they open it, they’re like, ‘Oh my God!’” By the weekend after Thanksgiving, Troiano had already purchased and wrapped her gift for the exchange she’s taking part in this year. After her swap, a lucky participant will be the new owner of a cutting board, two bottles of wine wearing bottle-size ugly sweaters, and gourmet chocolates.

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — A South Korean legislative push to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol over his short-lived imposition of martial law fell through on Saturday after most lawmakers from his conservative governing party boycotted the vote. The defeat of the motion is expected to intensify public protests calling for Yoon’s ouster and deepen political chaos in South Korea, with a survey suggesting a majority of South Koreans support the president’s impeachment. Yoon’s martial law declaration drew criticism from his own ruling conservative party, but it is also determined to oppose Yoon’s impeachment apparently because it fears losing the presidency to liberals. Impeaching Yoon required support from two-thirds of the National Assembly, or 200 of its 300 members. The opposition parties who brought the impeachment motion had 192 seats, but only three lawmakers from PPP participated in the vote. The motion was scrapped without ballot counting because the number of votes didn’t reach 200. National Assembly Speaker Woo Won Shik called the result “very regrettable” and an embarrassing moment for the country’s democracy that has been closely watched by the world. “The failure to hold a qualified vote on this matter means we were not even able to exercise the democratic procedure of deciding on a critical national issue,” he said. Opposition parties could submit a new impeachment motion after a new parliamentary session opens next Wednesday. There are worries that Yoon won’t be able to serve out his remaining 2 1⁄2 years in office because his leadership took a huge hit. Many experts say some ruling party lawmakers could eventually join opposition parties’ efforts to impeach Yoon if public demands for it grow further. If Yoon is impeached, his powers will be suspended until the Constitutional Court decides whether to remove him from office. If he is removed, an election to replace him must take place within 60 days. Woo repeatedly urged ruling party members to return to the chamber to participate in the vote, waiting several hours for them to come. At one point, Democratic Party leaders visited a hall on the floor below the main chamber where PPP lawmakers were gathered, attempting to persuade them to vote. After being blocked from entering, they angrily accused the conservatives’ leadership of preventing its lawmakers from voting freely. Earlier Saturday, Yoon issued a public apology over the martial law decree, saying he won’t shirk legal or political responsibility for the declaration and promising not to make another attempt to impose martial law. He said would leave it to his party to chart a course through the country’s political turmoil, “including matters related to my term in office.” “The declaration of this martial law was made out of my desperation. But in the course of its implementation, it caused anxiety and inconveniences to the public. I feel very sorry over that and truly apologize to the people who must have been shocked a lot,” Yoon said. Since taking office in 2022, Yoon has struggled to push his agenda through an opposition-controlled parliament and grappled with low approval ratings amid scandals involving himself and his wife. In his martial law announcement on Tuesday night, Yoon called parliament a “den of criminals” bogging down state affairs and vowed to eliminate “shameless North Korea followers and anti-state forces.” The turmoil resulting from Yoon’s bizarre and poorly-thought-out stunt has paralyzed South Korean politics and sparked alarm among key diplomatic partners like the U.S. and Japan. Tuesday night saw special forces troops encircling the parliament building and army helicopters hovering over it, but the military withdrew after the National Assembly unanimously voted to overturn the decree, forcing Yoon to lift it before daybreak Wednesday. The declaration of martial law was the first of its kind in more than 40 years in South Korea. Eighteen lawmakers from the ruling party voted to reject Yoon’s martial law decree along with opposition lawmakers. Yoon’s speech fueled speculation that he and his party may push for a constitutional amendment to shorten his term, instead of accepting impeachment, as a way to ease public anger over the marital law and facilitate Yoon’s early exit from office. Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the main liberal opposition Democratic Party, told reporters that Yoon’s speech was “greatly disappointing” and that the only way forward is his immediate resignation or impeachment. His party called Yoon’s martial law “unconstitutional, illegal rebellion or coup.” The passage of Yoon’s impeachment motion appeared more likely Friday when the chair of Yoon’s party called for his removal on Friday, but the party remained formally opposed to impeachment. On Saturday, tens of thousands of people densely packed several blocks of roads leading up to the National Assembly, waving banners, shouting slogans and dancing and singing along to K-pop songs with lyrics changed to call for Yoon’s ouster. Protesters also gathered in front of PPP’s headquarters near the Assembly, angrily shouting for its lawmakers to vote to impeach Yoon. A smaller crowd of Yoon’s supporters, which still seemed to be in the thousands, rallied in separate streets in Seoul, decrying the impeachment attempt they saw as unconstitutional. Lawmakers on Saturday first voted on a bill appointing a special prosecutor to investigate stock price manipulation allegations surrounding Yoon’s wife. Some lawmakers from Yoon’s party were seen leaving the hall after that vote, triggering angry shouts from opposition lawmakers. On Friday, PPP chair Han Dong-hun, who criticized Yoon’s martial law declaration, said he had received intelligence that during the brief period of martial law Yoon ordered the country’s defense counterintelligence commander to arrest and detain unspecified key politicians based on accusations of “anti-state activities.” Hong Jang-won, first deputy director of South Korea’s National Intelligence Service, told lawmakers in a closed-door briefing Friday that Yoon had ordered him to help the defense counterintelligence unit to detain key politicians. The targeted politicians included Han, Lee and Woo, according to Kim Byung-kee, one of the lawmakers who attended the meeting. The Defense Ministry said Friday it suspended three military commanders including the head of the defense counterintelligence unit over their involvement in enforcing martial law. Vice Defense Minister Kim Seon Ho has told parliament that Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun ordered the deployment of troops to the National Assembly after Yoon imposed martial law. Opposition parties accused Kim of recommending to Yoon to enforce martial law. Kim resigned Thursday, and prosecutors imposed an overseas travel ban on him.

LUQUE, Paraguay — Sake is perhaps more Japanese than the world-famous sushi. It's brewed in centuries-old mountaintop warehouses, savored in the country’s pub-like izakayas, poured during weddings and served slightly chilled for special toasts. The smooth rice wine that plays a crucial role in Japan's culinary traditions was enshrined on Wednesday by UNESCO on its list of the “intangible cultural heritage of humanity." At a meeting in Luque, Paraguay, members of UNESCO’s committee for safeguarding humanity's cultural heritage voted to recognize 45 cultural practices and products around the world, including Brazilian white cheese, Caribbean cassava bread and Palestinian olive oil soap. Unlike UNESCO’s World Heritage List, which includes sites considered important to humanity like the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, the Intangible Cultural Heritage designation names products and practices of different cultures that are deserving of recognition. Japan's Takehiro Kano, ambassador to UNESCO, reacts after the traditional Japanese brewing of sake was officially named to UNESCO's "intangible cultural heritage of humanity" list during a World Heritage Convention in Asuncion, Paraguay on Wednesday. A Japanese delegation welcomed the announcement in Luque. “Sake is considered a divine gift and is essential for social and cultural events in Japan,” Kano Takehiro, the Japanese ambassador to UNESCO, told The Associated Press. The basic ingredients of sake are few: rice, water, yeast and koji, a rice mold that breaks down the starches into fermentable sugars like malting does in beer production. The whole two-month process of steaming, stirring, fermenting and pressing can be grueling. The rice — which wields tremendous marketing power as part of Japan's broader cultural identity — is key to the alcoholic brew. For a product to be categorized Japanese sake, the rice must be Japanese. Japanese sake, a nominee for UNESCO's "intangible cultural heritage of humanity" list, are displayed on Japan's delegation table, during a UNESCO World Heritage Convention in Asuncion, Paraguay, on Wednesday. The UNESCO recognition, the delegation said, captured more than the craft knowledge of making high-quality sake. It also honored a tradition dating back some 1,000 years — sake makes a cameo in Japan’s famous 11th century novel, “The Tale of Genji,” as the drink of choice in the refined Heian court. Now, officials hope to restore sake's image as Japan's premier alcoholic drink even as the younger drinkers in the country switch to imported wine or domestic beer and whiskey. Japanese breweries also expressed hope the listing could give a lift to the country's export economy as the popularity of sake booms around the world and in the United States amid heightened interest in Japanese cuisine. “I hope that this will also be an opportunity for Japanese people to take another look at sake, shochu and awamori, which are the essence of their culture," Hitoshi Utsunomiya, director of the trade group Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association, said in Tokyo. "I would like them to try it even once and see what it tastes like,” he said. Sake exports, mostly to the U.S. and China, now rake in over $265 million a year, according to the association. Japan's Takehiro Kano, ambassador to UNESCO, reacts as the traditional Japanese brewing of sake was named to UNESCO's "intangible cultural heritage of humanity" list during a World Heritage Convention in Asuncion, Paraguay on Wednesday. Japan's delegation appeared ready to celebrate Wednesday — in classic Japanese style. After the announcement, Takehiro raised a cypress box full of sake to toast the alcoholic brew and cultural rite. “It means a lot to Japan and to the Japanese,” he said of the UNESCO designation. "This will help to renew interest in traditional sake elaboration.” In Tokyo, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said he was “delighted” by UNESCO's recognition of traditional sake-making techniques, and he congratulated those dedicated to preserving and promoting the tradition. The crisp autumn air ushers in more than just pumpkin spice latte season. Consider cozying up inside with friends for a wine tasting and sharing delicious food and drinks with more complex flavors than cinnamon and sugar. Perhaps once thought of as stuffy affairs only for wine connoisseurs, today a tasting can be as casual as pouring a few bottles while doing another activity—say, bar games like darts or art activities like painting. The tasting can also be more traditional, especially if held at a winery or local wine shop, which is a great way to learn about what wines you might like to later serve at home. To host the ultimate wine tasting, it pays to do some R&D. One of the best aspects of hosting a wine tasting at home is that you get to establish the mood, tone, and guest list for the gathering—you can't pick a playlist when you sample wines at a bar or wine shop or make the dress code loungewear. So whether the mood is serious or playful, sophisticated or laid-back, the key to a successful tasting is enjoying and appreciating the wine and having fun with friends and family. Of course, there are a few other things to figure out along the way. Peerspace put together a few tips for hosting your wine-tasting party. A tasting party is all about sampling different wines and evaluating and hopefully enjoying them—and there are a variety of ways to do that. Would you like to host a playful gathering where each guest brings a mystery bottle of wine within a certain price range—a BYOB affair? Or would it be better to have more control over which wines are featured by curating and supplying all the wines as a host? This decision sets the tone—a tasting where guests contribute wine can be a bit of a free-for-all, whereas one where you select wines you supply allows guests to sit back and simply enjoy. And you don't have to break the bank to buy excellent wines—there are lots of wine experts ready to share their affordable picks. How much folks know about wine differs—and that's a good thing. Tastings are group learning experiences. Expertise isn't necessary to host or attend a tasting, but it is helpful to think about what will keep guests comfortable and having fun. Decide whether the vibe will be relaxed and laid-back, like friends sipping wine fireside, or more upbeat and formal. Think about elements like the atmosphere and the location, and consider whether folks will be seated or standing. Will you have a spirited playlist (couldn't resist) or live music? Do you want an expert to introduce each wine, or will you be that expert? Consider how guests will share their thoughts on what they are tasting. Do you want to just talk about them or do something more organized, like take notes or give ratings? Then supply notebooks or notecards and pencils, with categories or questions established ahead of time—all of which can reflect your evening's tone as well. Picking a theme is essential to curating the selection of wines—it's the organizing principle behind your selections. Otherwise, your tasting might as well be just walking down the wine aisle at the grocery store and taking sips from random bottles. There's too much wine out there not to be strategic about this. Plus, a theme helps you to tell the story of each wine better—it's the plot line of the night, if you will. Common themes are types of wine, regions they are from, or even price points—really, one can get as creative as they wish. For inspiration, check out local wine shops and see what they do for tastings. Often, they will follow seasonality and group wines in novel ways for their own in-house tastings. Don't let food be an afterthought for the festivities—after all, food can enhance particular qualities of wine and vice versa. There are many rules around what foods to pair with which wines, but consider this simple advice from Alder Yarrow's Vinography : "Stick with eating good food and drinking good wine." Since the focus is on the wines, allow the drinks to determine what food makes sense, but don't overthink it. Food is a supporting character here—at the very least, guests will need something to soak up all the alcohol (unless you are spitting it out). Eating foods that contain a mixture of protein, fats, and carbs when drinking helps increase the rate of alcohol elimination . Whether it's a full meal or heavy hors d'oeuvres, thoughtful noshes are necessary. How many people to invite is a question largely informed by the answers to tip #1: Are you having a big, formal affair or an intimate catch-up with close friends? Or something in between? Whatever the case, an RSVP is essential because not only do you need to plan the setup of the space, but you must also make sure there's enough wine for everyone to taste, including each of the wines featured. There's nothing worse than a tasting that runs dry! The math to determine how much wine you need considers the size of the tasting pours—a full glass of wine at a restaurant is usually around 5 ounces, which yields around five glasses of wine from a standard bottle. For tastings, you'll want to do less, depending on how many wines you are featuring—say, 2 ounces if you'll be trying a lot of different wines. Experts agree, having more wine than you need is always a good idea—that way you can send guests home with a bottle should there be a prize at the end of the night. The bottom line is, however you do it, hosting the ultimate wine tasting should be fun. Wine can feel intimidating to many people, but most wine experts are passionate, inspired folks who want to share what they know and help you find wines you like. So visit your local wine store or winemaker and ask questions. There are good guides specifically concerning how to taste wine. Dig a little, taste a lot, and have fun. It's all research for your next ultimate wine tasting. Story editing by Carren Jao. Additional editing by Kelly Glass. Copy editing by Kristen Wegrzyn. Photo selection by Lacy Kerrick. This story originally appeared on Peerspace and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio. Get local news delivered to your inbox!Apple Cash: How to use it to send and receive money

India Women vs Australia Women Free Live Streaming Online, 2nd ODI 2024: How to Watch IND-W vs AUS-W Cricket Match Live Telecast on TV?PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Saquon Barkley wanted to be a student in team history before he had a chance to make some with the Eagles. The running back who had just signed with Philadelphia for $26 million guaranteed took a deep dive on some of the franchise’s greats out of the backfield. He learned about Wilbert Montgomery. Brushed up on LeSean McCoy. Barkley then put them in his sights — and this week against Carolina, he could become the top single-season rusher in Eagles history. Get past those two Eagles Hall of Famers and the target narrows: McCoy has a chance to break Eric Dickerson's NFL single-season rushing mark of 2,105 yards, set in 1984. “That's your goal,” Barkley said. “You want to come in here, you want to leave a legacy on a place, on a franchise.” Here's where things stand with Barkley in his pursuit of records: — Barkley has an NFL-best 1,499 yards rushing through 12 games, an average of 124.9 yards per game. At that pace and with one more game to play than Dickerson, he would surpass the NFL mark that's stood for 40 years. — Barkley needs to run for 108 yards against the Panthers to break McCoy's Eagles record of 1,607 yards set in 2013. Montgomery ran for 1,512 yards in 1978. “I'm aware of the things I can accomplish,” Barkley said. “The way I accomplish that is sticking to the script.” The Eagles (10-2) have won eight straight to take control of the NFC East and remain in the hunt for the No. 1 seed in the conference. Barkley — with a little help from Jalen Hurts — has largely led the way and moved into MVP consideration. The former New York Giant also ranks third in the league with 11 rushing touchdowns. It's reasonable to expect Barkley to pile on the yards against Carolina (3-9). The Panthers are 32nd in the league against the run and just allowed Tampa Bay's Bucky Irving to run for a career-high 152 yards last week (he had never broken 100). “It’s incredible what he is doing. The record has stood up for a while. I mean 17 games or 14 games, it’s ridiculous,” Panthers defensive lineman Shy Tuttle said. “It’s a record that has been held for a long time and whoever breaks it, Saquon or someone else, it’s an incredible achievement.” Barkley leads the NFL with four rushing touchdowns of 25-plus yards this season and tied Montgomery for the most 100-yards games in an Eagles season with eight. “You get to see the player on Sundays. We get to see the person every other day during the week,” offensive coordinator Kellen Moore said. “He’s special. At the end of the day, he’s a special teammate, special person. The way he connects with everyone, rallies everyone together. He’s one of the best.” Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard is eager to get back on the field and put last week behind him. Story continues below video Carolina’s leading rusher had a costly fumble in overtime last Sunday against Tampa Bay as the Panthers were driving for a potential game-winning field goal, resulting in a 26-23 loss to division rival Tampa Bay. A dejected Hubbard remained on the bench for several minutes after the loss. “You definitely use it as motivation,” Hubbard said. “I have come a long way and I know what it’s like to play great football. That was a big mistake on my end, but I don’t just lose all of the work I have put in because of that one mistake.” Bryce Young is beginning to show he can be a factor with his legs, scoring on a 10-yard run last week against the Buccaneers. However, Young still receives plenty of good-natured ribbing from his teammates when it comes to his sliding ability, which the QB has previously admitted is limited because he wasn’t much of a baseball player. “He definitely has to work on his slide,” Hubbard said. “He has been making people miss so he hasn’t had to slide like that a lot. I mean I’m not trying to hate on my dog’s slide but it’s just a work in progress. He will be all right.” Panthers guard Robert Hunt said it’s always interesting playing in Philadelphia because of the team’s passionate fan base. Last year, while Hunt was playing for the Dolphins, he said an Eagles fan attempted to board the Miami team bus. “They have some characters there — some people who don’t really give a damn,” Hunt said. “He was trying to trash-talk us. But he was confident and that is what makes them them.” Hunt said the fan never made it on the bus. “Aw hell no, we would have stomped that boy,” Hunt said with a laugh. “He tried. He was talking his noise. Good for him. I don’t want to say you want a fan base like that, but you want a fan base that cares about the team.” AP Sports Writer Steve Reed in Charlotte, North Carolina, contributed to this report. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/NFL

no more bet The AP Top 25 men’s college basketball poll is back every week throughout the season! Get the poll delivered straight to your inbox with AP Top 25 Poll Alerts. Sign up here . BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (AP) — Don McHenry scored seven of his 29 points in overtime to lead Western Kentucky over Murray State 81-76 on Saturday. McHenry hit a go-ahead 3-pointer with 39 seconds left and two free throws with 15 remaining to rally the Hilltoppers (7-3). He added five rebounds. Babacar Faye scored 17 and grabbed nine rebounds. Khristian Lander had 12 points. Jacobi Wood led the way for the Racers (6-3) with 22 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Nick Ellington totaled 15 points and seven rebounds. AJ Ferguson pitched in with 13 points, seven rebounds and two steals. Faye put up eight points in the first half for Western Kentucky, which trailed 39-33. McHenry led the Hilltoppers with 15 second-half points and he hit the game-tying layup with 35 seconds left to send the game to overtime tied at 67. ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

DraftKings (DKNG) Is Looking Bullish as More States Legalize Sports Betting

Remembering a legend

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When the Nebraska football team gathered for its Thursday practice prior to the Wisconsin game, offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen wanted to see a game-ready unit. Anything other than the best wasn’t good enough, and Holgorsen backed it up. The players who made mistakes, even committing false start penalties during that practice didn’t play on Saturday because of it, Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule said. Those who did their job got their chance, though, with Rhule identifying senior wide receiver Isiaha Garcia-Castaneda as one such beneficiary. So while Holgorsen’s playcalling was part of Nebraska’s 44-point outburst against the Badgers, his general approach is what Rhule appreciates most. “You hear Dana on the headset, the whole time he’s just talking about execution,” Rhule said. “... There’s a real focus on execution and when the guys execute the play calls. I think that was the message to the guys — if you execute and practice at a high level, you’re going to have an opportunity to play in the game.” Changes have been limited in Holgorsen’s short time as NU’s offensive coordinator, but he did make sure the Huskers scaled back the number of plays in their playbook. “We’re still doing a lot,” Rhule said, while crediting assistant coaches Glenn Thomas, Garret McGuire and Marcus Satterfield for their work in helping Holgorsen get accustomed to the team’s offensive setup. A “collaborative” gameplanning process that involves those coaches poring over game film and strategy together has led to results, but Rhule again emphasized that improvements from the players, not the coaches, is what has led to better results. When Nebraska was in rhythm on Saturday and stayed ahead of the chains, the Huskers were nearly impossible to slow down. When penalties, turnovers or miscues like snapping on the wrong count happened, though, the offense’s progress was halted. The clear difference? Execution. “It’s kind of a blend of everything we’ve been trying to say to them all year coming to life,” Rhule said of Nebraska’s 44-point performance. “I think the thing Dana’s done a great job is, he’s cut things down to a degree, but he’s demanding that they execute if they want to get on the field.” Nebraska also couldn’t have cut apart the Wisconsin defense without a reinvigorated showing from quarterback Dylan Raiola. Having thrown at least one interception in his previous five starts, Raiola finished the game turnover-free for the first time since September. The freshman also completed 28-of-38 passes for 293 yards and one touchdown, his biggest passing output other than a 297-yard performance against Illinois. Part of the reason for the turnaround was health-related following the back injury Raiola suffered against UCLA. Held out of practice over the bye, Raiola was “ginger” the whole game against USC according to Rhule but was more comfortable with moving around and sliding up in the pocket last Saturday. Getting the ball out quickly and accurately also helped Raiola’s timing within the offense. “He was just taking completions, taking what was there and not trying to do too much,” Rhule said of Raiola. “Playing as a freshman in the Big Ten is really, really hard; it requires tough people and I think Dylan’s been tough in that he’s gotten better every week.” Nebraska’s progress will be tested in a matchup against the nation’s No. 12 scoring defense, an Iowa unit that is allowing just 17.7 points per game. Another week with Holgorsen at the helm will help Nebraska with that challenge as the Huskers look to build on their recent offensive surge. “Just the rhythm of the way he does things means total sense to me,” Rhule said of Holgorsen. “... If I coach with Dana for one more week or if we coach together for the next 10 years, I’ll be a better coach as a result.” Get local news delivered to your inbox!'Not the greatest situation': Chesney weighs in on snowballs thrown at JMU by App State fansbest quotes of all time 。

Imran Khan asks PTI supporters to 'fight until last ball is bowled'Equinor ASA ( NYSE:EQNR – Get Free Report ) was downgraded by stock analysts at StockNews.com from a “strong-buy” rating to a “buy” rating in a research note issued to investors on Thursday. EQNR has been the topic of a number of other reports. Citigroup raised Equinor ASA to a “strong sell” rating in a report on Wednesday, October 2nd. UBS Group raised shares of Equinor ASA from a “sell” rating to a “neutral” rating in a research note on Thursday, August 8th. Morgan Stanley raised shares of Equinor ASA from an “underweight” rating to an “equal weight” rating and set a $25.80 price target for the company in a research note on Monday, October 14th. Redburn Atlantic upgraded shares of Equinor ASA from a “neutral” rating to a “buy” rating in a research note on Wednesday. Finally, Barclays raised Equinor ASA to a “hold” rating in a report on Wednesday, October 2nd. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of “Hold” and a consensus price target of $26.90. Check Out Our Latest Report on Equinor ASA Equinor ASA Stock Performance Equinor ASA ( NYSE:EQNR – Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 24th. The company reported $0.79 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.74 by $0.05. Equinor ASA had a return on equity of 19.97% and a net margin of 8.95%. The firm had revenue of $25.45 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $24.45 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.92 earnings per share. As a group, analysts anticipate that Equinor ASA will post 3.31 EPS for the current year. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Atwood & Palmer Inc. purchased a new position in Equinor ASA in the second quarter valued at about $25,000. Reston Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Equinor ASA during the 3rd quarter valued at about $31,000. Rothschild Investment LLC bought a new stake in shares of Equinor ASA in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $32,000. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC increased its holdings in Equinor ASA by 27.1% in the second quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,712 shares of the company’s stock worth $45,000 after buying an additional 365 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Bruce G. Allen Investments LLC raised its position in Equinor ASA by 363.5% during the third quarter. Bruce G. Allen Investments LLC now owns 1,928 shares of the company’s stock valued at $49,000 after acquiring an additional 1,512 shares in the last quarter. 5.51% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Equinor ASA Company Profile ( Get Free Report ) Equinor ASA, an energy company, engages in the exploration, production, transportation, refining, and marketing of petroleum and other forms of energy in Norway and internationally. It operates through Exploration & Production Norway; Exploration & Production International; Exploration & Production USA; Marketing, Midstream & Processing; Renewables; and Other segments. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Equinor ASA Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Equinor ASA and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

Donald Trump’s election interference and classified documents cases dismissed

Phuket took a significant step toward sustainable tourism with the launch of the "Phuket Old Town Carbon Neutrality 2030" initiative, aimed at making the historic old town the first carbon-neutral area in Thailand by 2030. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, on behalf of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, recently presided over the launch ceremony for the initiative at 72nd Anniversary Queen Sirikit Park in Phuket Old Town. The event was attended by local government officials, private sector representatives and community leaders. According to Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation chairman Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, the initiative was started by his foundation and gained support from Phuket City Municipality, the Big Data Institute (BDI) and the Phuket Old Town community. The collaboration is aimed at achieving carbon neutrality in the old town by 2030 and creating a model of sustainable tourism development. The initiative focuses on reducing the environmental impact of tourism through efficient resource management, waste reduction, systematic recycling, and the promotion of community participation. Key components of the project include waste segregation using colour-coded bags for different types of waste and the use of smart technology to monitor and manage carbon emissions. Notably, the BDI has implemented an innovative system to track carbon dioxide emissions in real-time by analysing traffic, waste and water pollution data. The goal is to reduce carbon dioxide in the old town by 30% in three years and 50% by 2030. In addition to the initiative, Phuket has been chosen to host the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference in 2026, underlining its commitment to environmental preservation while maintaining its appeal as a world-class tourist destination. Attractions like the popular Lard Yai Sunday walking street, which attracts around 30,000 visitors weekly, showcase the vibrant culture of Phuket Old Town but also highlight the challenges of waste and carbon management. Phuket governor Sophon Suwanrat stressed the need for clear strategies to address environmental challenges as international standards for sustainable tourism continue to evolve. Phuket mayor Saroj Angkanapilas echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of preserving the town's heritage while embracing global trends in sustainability.

Grades: Nebraska 44, Wisconsin 25Zanu-PF rolls out ED2030 campaign driveNolan Arenado may be ready to pivot away from his longtime stomping grounds. Katie Woo of The Athletic reports Tuesday that there is a growing sense around the baseball industry that the St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Arenado could be traded this offseason. Woo notes that the Cardinals have been exploring Arenado’s market for weeks and that both Arenado and the team have been open to a trade since the end of the 2024 season. While the possibility of Arenado getting traded is something that we have known about for weeks now , Woo’s report shares another very interesting tidbit — that Arenado is open to moving to first base to create flexibility for a potential new team. Arenado, 33, has been one of baseball’s premier defenders at third base for over a decade now, winning 10 Gold Glove Awards at the position (by far the most of any active player). He continues to be excellent at the hot corner as well, finishing fourth in defensive runs saved (26) and second in defensive runs above average (29.1) among all third basemen in 2024. But Arenado, who still has three years and $52 million left on his contract, may be willing to give up his role at third base in order to facilitate a move to a contender. While the eight-time MLB All-Star Arenado does have a full no-trade clause (as well as zero career appearances at first base), the Cardinals are expected to shed some other aging All-Stars this offseason as well , so the two sides may inevitably be trending here towards a split. This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

The dizzying array of legal threats to Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro

Cristi Croitoru Uber Technologies ( NYSE: UBER ) is arguably the cheapest growth stock in the market today, trading at 28 times '25 earnings and a 4.5% free cash flow yield, on expectations for mid-teens revenue growth for years to come. The Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of UBER either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. 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.Young Republican and Democratic Lawmakers and Activists Receive Political Bridge-Building AwardCanada Post strike highlights labour struggle over gig economy and precarious work

Genesis Bryant scores 27 and No. 19 Illinois women beat UMES 75-55 in Music City ClassicPalo Alto Networks ( NASDAQ:PANW – Get Free Report ) had its target price increased by stock analysts at Robert W. Baird from $425.00 to $435.00 in a note issued to investors on Thursday. The firm presently has an “outperform” rating on the network technology company’s stock. Robert W. Baird’s price objective points to a potential upside of 13.47% from the stock’s previous close. Other equities analysts have also recently issued research reports about the company. Truist Financial raised their price target on Palo Alto Networks from $400.00 to $425.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a report on Monday, November 18th. Needham & Company LLC lifted their price target on shares of Palo Alto Networks from $385.00 to $450.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research report on Thursday. Sanford C. Bernstein boosted their price target on shares of Palo Alto Networks from $364.00 to $399.00 and gave the stock an “outperform” rating in a research note on Tuesday, August 20th. Bank of America raised their price objective on shares of Palo Alto Networks from $400.00 to $430.00 and gave the company a “neutral” rating in a research note on Thursday. Finally, Scotiabank upped their target price on shares of Palo Alto Networks from $385.00 to $400.00 and gave the company a “sector outperform” rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 20th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, ten have issued a hold rating, thirty-one have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus target price of $402.03. Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on PANW Palo Alto Networks Stock Down 3.6 % Palo Alto Networks shares are scheduled to split before the market opens on Monday, December 16th. The 2-1 split was announced on Wednesday, November 20th. The newly issued shares will be payable to shareholders after the market closes on Friday, December 13th. Palo Alto Networks ( NASDAQ:PANW – Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 20th. The network technology company reported $1.56 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.48 by $0.08. The firm had revenue of $2.14 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $2.12 billion. Palo Alto Networks had a net margin of 32.11% and a return on equity of 26.83%. Palo Alto Networks’s revenue was up 13.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.63 EPS. As a group, equities analysts predict that Palo Alto Networks will post 3.56 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Insider Activity at Palo Alto Networks In other Palo Alto Networks news, CEO Nikesh Arora sold 81,586 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, October 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $367.99, for a total value of $30,022,832.14. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 618,715 shares in the company, valued at $227,680,932.85. This trade represents a 11.65 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link . Also, EVP Nir Zuk sold 36,000 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, October 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $332.50, for a total transaction of $11,970,000.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 1,115,567 shares in the company, valued at $370,926,027.50. This represents a 3.13 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 254,252 shares of company stock valued at $89,041,637. 2.50% of the stock is owned by insiders. Institutional Trading of Palo Alto Networks Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of PANW. Mainstream Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in Palo Alto Networks in the 3rd quarter valued at about $1,156,000. Alpha Cubed Investments LLC grew its position in shares of Palo Alto Networks by 16.4% in the third quarter. Alpha Cubed Investments LLC now owns 231,566 shares of the network technology company’s stock valued at $79,149,000 after purchasing an additional 32,626 shares during the last quarter. Handelsbanken Fonder AB increased its stake in shares of Palo Alto Networks by 3.8% during the third quarter. Handelsbanken Fonder AB now owns 196,700 shares of the network technology company’s stock worth $67,232,000 after purchasing an additional 7,291 shares during the period. Harvest Portfolios Group Inc. acquired a new stake in Palo Alto Networks during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $24,414,000. Finally, Parsons Capital Management Inc. RI lifted its holdings in Palo Alto Networks by 4.5% during the 2nd quarter. Parsons Capital Management Inc. RI now owns 2,695 shares of the network technology company’s stock worth $914,000 after purchasing an additional 116 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 79.82% of the company’s stock. About Palo Alto Networks ( Get Free Report ) Palo Alto Networks, Inc provides cybersecurity solutions worldwide. The company offers firewall appliances and software; and Panorama, a security management solution for the global control of network security platform as a virtual or a physical appliance. It also provides subscription services covering the areas of threat prevention, malware and persistent threat, URL filtering, laptop and mobile device protection, DNS security, Internet of Things security, SaaS security API, and SaaS security inline, as well as threat intelligence, and data loss prevention. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Palo Alto Networks Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Palo Alto Networks and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .adidas Tilt boxing Gloves Ann Najjar, "The Mitt Queen,” is shown using the Adidas Tilt Gloves. Ergonomically and innovative, based on a game-changing re-design, these boxing gloves provide superior wrist support and protection, enhancing performance during intense training and sparring sessions. Innovative adidas Boxing Gloves - TILT200 and HYBRID 250 - Now Available In-Store and Online at Dick's Sporting Goods NEW YORK and PARIS, Nov. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Just in time for the holidays, adidas and DICK'S Sporting Goods have partnered to bring the best in boxing gear to DICK'S retail locations and online . Boxing fitness enthusiasts and athletes at all levels can gear up to participate in one of the most popular sports & fitness disciplines in the world through the adidas Tilt and Hybrid 250 boxing glove product line, and the new adidas Max system. Double D Imports SAS, the global licensee for adidas boxing and combat sports, made the announcement. The collection officially launched in stores at DICK'S on November 15, 2024, and is meticulously designed to enhance both performance and safety for athletes of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Developed and rigorously tested by fitness trendsetters like Ann Najjar "The Mitt Queen,” and top professional athletes, the adidas Boxing and Combat Sports line features cutting-edge design, advanced technology, and premium materials. These elements combine to deliver unmatched performance and durability, setting a new standard in boxing equipment. adidas training equipment is created to elevate performance with adidas's latest innovations, just in time for the holiday season. Over 30 items are available online and instore, with three key highlights of the collection including: adidas Tilt Gloves : Ergonomical and innovative, based on a game changing re-design, these boxing gloves provide superior wrist support and protection, enhancing performance during intense training and sparring sessions. adidas Hybrid 250 Gloves : Versatile gloves featuring the unique Duo Lace Hook & Loop closure, combining the wrist and hand support of a laced glove with the convenience of a Hook & Loop closure, offering a perfect balance of comfort, protection, and durability. adidas Max ( Online Only ): A freestanding simulated opponent sparring bag with adjustable height and realistic movement. It is part of the unique Combax 4 system that will be made available later this year. "We are thrilled to bring our new adidas Boxing and Combat Sports line to DICK'S Sporting Goods," said Christophe Dessalles, Managing Director at Double D Imports SAS, the global licensee for adidas combat sports. "This collaboration underscores our commitment to providing athletes with the best tools to reach their full potential, whether they are training for competition or personal fitness goals." At the pre-launch review of the adidas boxing gloves and gear, Mitt Queen emphasized their importance for anyone incorporating boxing into their fitness routine. "As a boxing coach and fitness expert, I can confidently say that boxing is one of the most effective full-body workouts,” said Mitt Queen. "Starting with the right gloves is essential, and the adidas Tilt200 and Hybrid 250 gloves set the standard. This holiday season, there's no better gift than the gift of fitness and boxing, and it all starts with adidas gloves, now available at DICK'S Sporting Goods.” adidas will host in-store events at select DICK'S locations, featuring demonstrations by professional athletes and coaches and opportunities for customers to experience the new products firsthand. Najjar is an adidas ambassador, exemplifying the commitment to the best in sport and fitness through her professional coaching and training business centered in San Diego. She has mastered the art of mitt holding and is one of the few female boxing trainers working in and shaping the sport. adidas continues to lead the way in sports innovation, leveraging its expertise and dedication to athlete performance and safety. The new Boxing and Combat Sports line is a testament to this commitment, offering products that empower athletes to train harder, smarter, and achieve their goals. For more information about the new adidas Boxing and Combat Sports product line and to find a participating DICK'S Sporting Goods store near you, visit DICKS.com. About Double D Imports SAS Double D Imports SAS is the global licensee of adidas boxing and combat sports categories, including all martial arts. Committed to innovation and excellence, Double D Imports SAS collaborates with boxing and sports associations worldwide to create and provide approved products for amateur and professional boxing. About DICK'S Sporting Goods DICK'S Sporting Goods creates confidence and excitement by inspiring, supporting and personally equipping all athletes to achieve their dreams. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, the leading omnichannel retailer serves athletes and outdoor enthusiasts in more than 850 DICK'S Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy, Public Lands, Going Going Gone! and Warehouse Sale stores, online, and through the DICK'S mobile app. DICK'S also owns and operates DICK'S House of Sport and Golf Galaxy Performance Center, as well as GameChanger, a youth sports mobile platform for live streaming, scheduling, communications and scorekeeping. Driven by its belief that sports have the power to change lives, DICK'S has been a longtime champion for youth sports and, together with its Foundation, has donated millions of dollars to support under-resourced teams and athletes through the Sports Matter program and other community-based initiatives. 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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Genesis Bryant scored 27 points, Kendall Bostic secured her third double-double this season with 12 points and 11 rebounds and No. 19 Illinois beat Maryland Eastern Shore 75-55 on Tuesday in the Music City Classic. Illinois (6-0) moved to 6-0 for the second time under third-year coach Shauna Green. Illinois scored the opening nine points of the game and took a double-digit lead for good with 2:11 left in the first quarter when Makira Cook made a 3-pointer to begin 13-2 run. UMES scored 13 straight points midway through the second quarter to get as close as 32-22, but Cook answered with a basket to end Illinois' three-minute drought. Bryant finished the first half with 14 points and Cook added 13 to help Illinois build a 43-26 lead. The pair combined to make seven of Illinois’ 14 field goals. UMES was 9 of 36 (25%), including 0 of 7 from 3-point range at halftime. Illinois also got 15 points from Cook and a career-high 11 rebounds from Brynn Shoup-Hill. Bryant, who reached double figures in the first quarter, scored 20-plus for the first time this season. Zamara Haynes led UMES (4-3) with 20 points and Mahogany Lester added 14. Illinois stays in Nashville to play No. 14 Kentucky on Wednesday. UMES travels to Piscataway, New Jersey, to face Georgia Southern in the Battle on the Banks on Friday. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here. AP women’s college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-womens-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/womens-college-basketball

His neighbours have cats and dogs, but when 72-year-old Philippe Gillet settles down to watch television there is usually an alligator dozing beside him. His bungalow in western France is also home to a venomous Gabonese viper, a spitting cobra, a python, alligator turtles that can bite off a finger, tarantulas and scorpions. When someone unfamiliar enters Gillet’s living room, Gator, a two-metre (6ft 6-inch) alligator, growls from under a coffee table. “Calm down,” says Gillet, and Gator goes back to his snooze near Alli, another dozing alligator. “When there is a storm he comes to sleep in my bed,” said Gillet. “People think I am mad.”It's an Athletic Holiday: Adidas and Dick's Sporting Goods Make the Gift of Fitness and Boxing Easier

But it's not just Muriel's individual talent that makes him believe Atalanta can win the Serie A title. Muriel has seen firsthand the progress that the team has made over the years, both on and off the pitch. The experience of competing in Europe and facing some of the best teams in the world has helped Atalanta players adapt to the pressure of high-stakes matches and perform at their best when it matters most.The Chinese Golden Dragon Index, a prominent index tracking the performance of Chinese companies listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange, has seen a significant surge of over 8% in recent trading sessions. This remarkable increase has caught the attention of foreign investors, who are increasingly optimistic about the prospects of investing in Chinese assets.bet game cards 。

In conclusion, the launch of the AI internal search tool "Answers" represents a significant milestone for Reddit in its quest to enhance search capabilities and compete with industry leaders like Google. With its advanced features and personalized search results, "Answers" is set to revolutionize the way users navigate and discover content on the platform, ushering in a new era of enhanced user experience and engagement on Reddit.

However, critics of the move argue that it undermines the official position of the Syrian government and could strain the already complicated relationship between Syria and Russia. They view it as a betrayal of the Assad regime and a deviation from the established diplomatic protocols that govern international relations.

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Exciting news has just been unveiled in the automotive industry as Xiaomi Motors, the renowned technology company's automotive division, officially announced the upcoming launch of its latest SUV model, the Xiaomi YU7. With a strong emphasis on innovation, technology, and design, Xiaomi is set to make a significant impact in the competitive SUV market with the introduction of the YU7.Jack Smith Files Motion to Drop Jan.6 Charges Against Trump Before Inauguration in Major Blow for Special Counsel

After-hours movers: Intuit, NetApp, Ross Stores, GAPThe news of Valverde's appointment has generated a buzz of excitement among Beijing Guoan fans, who are eager to see how the new coach will shape the team's playing style and tactics. With the start of the new season just around the corner, anticipation is building as the team prepares to embark on their journey under Valverde's leadership.

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The English Premier League is renowned for its competitiveness and drama, and this season is shaping up to be no different. With each match bringing new surprises and upsets, it is anyone's guess as to who will emerge victorious at the end of the season. The battle for the top spot promises to be intense, with Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester City all vying for glory.

Rangers Looking to Trade Veterans: Predators Should InquireThe live stream event, which was meticulously planned and executed with precision, showcased the entire process of Xiang Zuo's transformation, from the initial consultation to the final styling. Viewers were given a behind-the-scenes look at Xiaohua's creative process, witnessing firsthand the intricate techniques and attention to detail that go into creating a flawless hairstyle.

First and foremost, the transition from five membership tiers to three is aimed at simplifying the user experience and catering to the diverse needs of subscribers. By reducing the number of plans, Tencent Video is hoping to make it easier for users to choose the right membership option that best suits their viewing habits and budget. This move also allows the platform to focus on delivering more personalized content recommendations and enhancing user engagement across its subscriber base.

New York Giants star rookie wideout Malik Nabers (toe) missed practice Thursday and termed himself a game-day decision. He also is unsure if he will be able to participate on Friday. The Giants host the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. "I'm hoping so, it all depends on how it feels tomorrow, that's really it," Nabers said Thursday. Nabers, 21, has been one of the few bright spots for the Giants and leads the team with 97 receptions for 969 yards and four touchdown catches in 13 games (12 starts). Selected sixth overall out of LSU, Nabers has caught 10 or more passes on three occasions but has just one touchdown catch over the past 10 games. Though the Giants (2-13) are mired in a franchise-worst 10-game losing streak, Nabers isn't down about the situation. "We're happy where we're at," Nabers said. "Continue to grow every day. A lot of things to fix, a lot of things we can look back on in our rookie year and continue to try to get better for next year." In addition to Nabers, running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. (ankle), center John Michael Schmitz (ankle), linebacker Micah McFadden (neck), cornerbacks Greg Stroman (shoulder/shin) and Dee Williams (toe) and safety Raheem Layne (knee) sat out practice Thursday. Quarterback Drew Lock (right shoulder) was a limited participant. --Field Level Media

Properties Worth Rs 71,000 Crore Sold By 26 Major Listed Realty Firms In Apr-SepWhen the Nebraska football team gathered for its Thursday practice prior to the Wisconsin game, offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen wanted to see a game-ready unit. Anything other than the best wasn’t good enough, and Holgorsen backed it up. The players who made mistakes, even committing false start penalties during that practice didn’t play on Saturday because of it, Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule said. Those who did their job got their chance, though, with Rhule identifying senior wide receiver Isiaha Garcia-Castaneda as one such beneficiary. So while Holgorsen’s playcalling was part of Nebraska’s 44-point outburst against the Badgers, his general approach is what Rhule appreciates most. “You hear Dana on the headset, the whole time he’s just talking about execution,” Rhule said. “... There’s a real focus on execution and when the guys execute the play calls. I think that was the message to the guys — if you execute and practice at a high level, you’re going to have an opportunity to play in the game.” People are also reading... Changes have been limited in Holgorsen’s short time as NU’s offensive coordinator, but he did make sure the Huskers scaled back the number of plays in their playbook. “We’re still doing a lot,” Rhule said, while crediting assistant coaches Glenn Thomas, Garret McGuire and Marcus Satterfield for their work in helping Holgorsen get accustomed to the team’s offensive setup. A “collaborative” gameplanning process that involves those coaches poring over game film and strategy together has led to results, but Rhule again emphasized that improvements from the players, not the coaches, is what has led to better results. Nebraska offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen coaches during the game against Wisconsin on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. When Nebraska was in rhythm on Saturday and stayed ahead of the chains, the Huskers were nearly impossible to slow down. When penalties, turnovers or miscues like snapping on the wrong count happened, though, the offense’s progress was halted. The clear difference? Execution. “It’s kind of a blend of everything we’ve been trying to say to them all year coming to life,” Rhule said of Nebraska’s 44-point performance. “I think the thing Dana’s done a great job is, he’s cut things down to a degree, but he’s demanding that they execute if they want to get on the field.” Nebraska also couldn’t have cut apart the Wisconsin defense without a reinvigorated showing from quarterback Dylan Raiola. Having thrown at least one interception in his previous five starts, Raiola finished the game turnover-free for the first time since September. The freshman also completed 28-of-38 passes for 293 yards and one touchdown, his biggest passing output other than a 297-yard performance against Illinois. Part of the reason for the turnaround was health-related following the back injury Raiola suffered against UCLA. Held out of practice over the bye, Raiola was “ginger” the whole game against USC according to Rhule but was more comfortable with moving around and sliding up in the pocket last Saturday. Getting the ball out quickly and accurately also helped Raiola’s timing within the offense. “He was just taking completions, taking what was there and not trying to do too much,” Rhule said of Raiola. “Playing as a freshman in the Big Ten is really, really hard; it requires tough people and I think Dylan’s been tough in that he’s gotten better every week.” Nebraska’s progress will be tested in a matchup against the nation’s No. 12 scoring defense, an Iowa unit that is allowing just 17.7 points per game. Another week with Holgorsen at the helm will help Nebraska with that challenge as the Huskers look to build on their recent offensive surge. “Just the rhythm of the way he does things means total sense to me,” Rhule said of Holgorsen. “... If I coach with Dana for one more week or if we coach together for the next 10 years, I’ll be a better coach as a result.” Photos: Nebraska football hosts Wisconsin on senior day — Nov. 23 Nebraska players carry the Freedom Trophy after defeating Wisconsin, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Emmett Johnson (21) escapes a tackle by Wisconsin's Tackett Curtis (4) on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Carter Nelson (29) celebrates a tackle on special teams during the third quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen coaches during the game against Wisconsin on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Heinrich Haarberg runs the ball during the fourth quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Emmett Johnson (21) escapes a tackle by Wisconsin's Tackett Curtis (4) during the fourth quarter of the game on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Riley Van Poppel (44) runs on to the field before the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska fans celebrate as time winds down in the fourth quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Jordan Ochoa (94) is pictured on the field in the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Micah Mazzccua (from left) Jahmal Banks, Isaiah Neyor, and Henry Lutovsky celebrate a touchdown by Dante Dowdell (23) in the second quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Emmett Johnson (21) runs the ball while pursued by Wisconsin's Austin Brown (9), Max Lofy (12), and Ben Barten (68) on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska celebrates an interception by DeShon Singleton (8) during the fourth quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska senior Ty Robinson said Saturday's win was "kind of like a Cinderella ending to my career here at Memorial (Stadium)." Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola (15) celebrates a touchdown during the fourth quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola "bowls" the football after a touchdown during the fourth quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Wisconsin's Braedyn Locke (18) has his throw blocked by Nebraska's Mikai Gbayor (42) in the third quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Gunnar Gottula (77) is pictured on the field in the second quarter against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. In a play that was called back, Nebraska's Isaiah Neyor (18) signals for a touchdown after a catch in the endzone during the second quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Stefon Thompson (left) tries to tackle Wisconsin's Tawee Walker (3) as he runs the ball in the second quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Jahmal Banks (4) reacts after making a catch for a first down against Wisconsin on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Jahmal Banks (4) is tackle by Wisconsin's Xavier Lucas (10) in the first quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Wisconsin's Nyzier Fourqurean (3) and Jay Harper (26) tackle Nebraska's Luke Lindenmeyer (44) as he makes a catch in the second quarter Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Wisconsin's Max Lofy (12) pops a the ball out of the hands of Nebraska's Isaiah Garcia-Castaneda (13) in the second quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Brian Buschini (13) holds the ball as John Hohl (90) kicks a field goal against Wisconsin on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Wisconsin's Tucker Ashcraft (38) tries to make a catch while defended by Nebraska's Javin Wright (33) in the second quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola (15) throws under pressure by the Wisconsin defense on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Keelan Smith (85) and Mikai Gbayor (42) carry the Freedom Trophy off the field after the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's MJ Sherman (48) smiles up at the crowd while walking off the field after the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska won 44-25. Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola (top right) is swarmed by fans and other players after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska won 44-25. Nebraska lifts up the Freedom Trophy after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska won 44-25. Nebraska coach Matt Rhule and Troy Dannen celebrate after NU beat Wisconsin on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska lifts up the Freedom Trophy after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska won 44-25. Nebraska lifts up the Freedom Trophy after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska won 44-25. Nebraska lifts up the Freedom Trophy after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday. Nebraska fans storm the field after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska won 44-25. For more coverage on the game, see Section C . Nebraska defenders Blye Hill (from left), Stefon Thompson and DeShon Singleton take down Wisconsin's Riley Nowakowski, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Marques Buford (from left), Isaac Gifford (center right) and MJ Sherman (right) celebrate a defensive play next to Wisconsin's Cody Raymond, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen calls a play during the game against Wisconsin, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule talks with Ceyair Wright after defeating Wisconsin, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Dante Dowdell (23) dives over the Wisconsin defense for a fourth-quarter touchdown on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Dante Dowdell (center) is swarmed by Wisconsin defenders as he tries to force his way into the endzone in the fourth quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's John Bullock (5) tries to break past Wisconsin's Riley Nowakowski (37) in the third quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Emmett Johnson (21) celebrates after a run in the fourth quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Emmett Johnson (21) celebrates after a run in the fourth quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Emmett Johnson (21) spins out of a tackle attempt by Wisconsin's Tackett Curtis (4) and Nyzier Fourqurean (3) in the fourth quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Wisconsin lines up against Nebraska in the second quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Ty Robinson (9) embraces his mother Tresha Robinson after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule speaks withis family after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Isaiah Neyor (18) celebrates as he walks off the field after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola (15) takes a selfie with fans after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Keelan Smith (85) and Nebraska's MJ Sherman (48) carry the freedom trophy off the field after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska players and fans crowd around the Freedom trophy after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola walks off the field after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Brice Turner celebrates on the field after winning the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola (15) and Dana Holgorsen celebrate a touchdown during the second quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska coach Matt Rhule (left) high-fives Janiran Bonner as offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen looks on Saturday. Nebraska's Dante Dowdell (23) runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the second quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Jahmal Banks (4) catches a pass during the first quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Jahmal Banks (4) catches a pass while defended by Wisconsin's Justin Taylor on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Janiran Bonner (16) fumbles the ball as he is tackled by Wisconsin's Jake Chaney (1) during the first quarter of the game on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Wisconsin recovered the fumble. Nebraska offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen looks over his notes during the first quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Heinrich Haarberg (10) runs through a tackle by Wisconsin's Austin Brown (9) and Preston Zachman (14) into the end zone for a touchdown during the first quarter of the game on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Heinrich Haarberg (center) leaps over Dante Dowdell (23) as he runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the first quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Jahmal Banks (4) catches a touchdown pass while defended by Wisconsin's Ricardo Hallman (2) during the second quarter of the game on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. In a play that was ruled incomplete, Nebraska's Isaiah Neyor (18) catches a pass in the endzone while defended by Wisconsin's Xavier Lucas (10) in the second quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Ceyair Wright (15) and Nash Hutmacher (0) try to block a field goal kick by Wisconsin's Nathanial Vakos (90) in the second quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Dante Dowdell (23) runs in to the endzone for a second quarter touchdown on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Wisconsin's Austin Brown (9) tries to tackle Nebraska's Dante Dowdell (23) as he runs the ball in for a touchdown in the second quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Wisconsin's Tawee Walker (3) fends off Nebraska's Marques Buford (3) as he runs the ball in the second quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Wisconsin's Braedyn Locke (18) is sacked by Nebraska's Willis McGahee (12) in the first quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Marques Buford (3) defends Wisconsin's Bryson Green (9) as he catches a touchdown in the endzone in the first quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's John Hohl (90) scores a filed goal in the first quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska defenders Vincent Shavers (1) and Marques Buford (3) and Isaac Gifford (2) tackle Wisconsin's Darrion Dupree (13) in the first quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Heinrich Haarberg (left) celebrates his touchdown with quarterback Dylan Raiola during the first quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Heinrich Haarberg (left) celebrates his touchdown with quarterback Dylan Raiola during the first quarter on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska players take the field after the tunnel walk on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Wisconsin's Trech Kekahuna (left) escapes a tackle from Nebraska's Isaac Gifford, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Javin Wright (right) breaks up a pass intended for Wisconsin's Tucker Ashcraft, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Heinrich Haarberg scores a touchdown against Wisconsin on Saturday at the Devaney Sports Center. Nebraska's Jacory Barney (right) celebrates his opening kickoff return against Wisconsin with teammate Janiran Bonner and Kwinten Ives, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Joey Mancino (67) embraces head coach Matt Rhule during a senior day ceremony before the game on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's MJ Sherman embraces head coach Matt Rhule during a senior day ceremony before the game on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Fans arrive at Memorial Stadium before the Wisconsin, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024. The Cornhusker Marching Band arrives at Memorial Stadium before the Wisconsin, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024. Chris Sayer of Lincoln plays a melodeon before the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Sayer said he has been playing outside of Husker football games for 42 years. Nebraska fans walk around campus before the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Hudson Meyer of Hooper, 6, throws leaves in the air before the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Members of the Cornhusker marching band enjoy a meal of Valentinos pizza together before the game on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Jimari Butler (10) and Nebraska's Ty Robinson (9) pressure Wisconsin's Braedyn Locke (18) as he throws during the first quarter of the game on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola reacts to a fumble recovered by Wisconsin during the first quarter of the game on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola (15) leads the team onto the field before the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Dante Dowdell (23) leaves behind Wisconsin's Austin Brown (9) as he runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the second quarter of the game on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Heinrich Haarberg (center) leaps over Dante Dowdell (23) as he runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the first quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Dylan Raiola (15) and Nebraska's Jacory Barney (17) celebrate during the third quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's offense lines up on the field during the third quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Wisconsin's Nathanial Vakos (90) reacts to missing a field goal during the first quarter of the game against Nebraska on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Emmett Johnson (21) celebrates a 6-yard gain during the fourth quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Johnson escaped three tackles during the play. Nebraska's Vincent Genatone (left) and Carter Nelson celebrate during the fourth quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Tommi Hill (left) and Rahmir Johnson walk out onto the field before the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola celebrates a field goal during the second quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Heinrich Haarberg (10) stores his mouthguard in his helmet during the first quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Ty Robinson (left) and Isaac Gifford (2) celebrate a missed field goal by Wisconsin during the first quarter of the game on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Heinrich Haarberg (10) celebrates his touchdown during the first quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska celebrates a touchdown by Heinrich Haarberg (center) during the first quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Wisconsin's Christian Alliegro (28) tackles Nebraska's Jahmal Banks (4) during the second quarter of the game on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule (left) and offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen stand on the sideline during the second quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Nebraska's Dylan Raiola (15), Heinrich Haarberg (10) and Nebraska's Ben Scott (66) celebrate a touchdown by Haarberg during the first quarter of the game against Wisconsin on Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at Memorial Stadium. Subscribe for the best Husker news & commentary Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Husker football/baseball reporter {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.The year 2021 has proven to be a pivotal moment for Taobao Global, as it has witnessed an exponential growth in GMV, reaching and surpassing the remarkable milestone of $20 billion. This achievement not only highlights the platform's robust performance in the competitive global e-commerce landscape but also underscores its ability to resonate with a diverse array of consumers worldwide.Under the current tax system, LVAT is levied on the appreciation in the value of land when a property is sold. This tax can be a significant financial burden for homeowners, particularly for those selling their primary residence. By exempting LVAT for ordinary residences, the government seeks to provide relief to homeowners and make property ownership more accessible and affordable for ordinary citizens.

The team's recent victory was a testament to their attacking prowess, as they put on a masterclass of football to secure the win. The players showed great determination, skill, and teamwork, combining to create chances, break down opposition defenses, and ultimately find the back of the net with clinical precision.Evacuation of Chinese Citizens from Syria: A Journey Through Green Corridors Amidst the Harrowing Sound of Anti-Aircraft Guns

Title: Chairman of GreenTown Group Involved in Controversial Photos? Spreader Fined, GreenTown Group Files Complaint and Denies RumorsKendrick Lamar surprises with new album 'GNX' LOS ANGELES (AP) — Kendrick Lamar gave music listeners an early holiday present with a new album. The Grammy winner released his sixth studio album “GNX” on Friday. The 12-track project is the rapper’s first release since 2022’s “Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers.” Lamar’s new album comes just months after his rap battle with Drake. The rap megastar will headline February's Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show in New Orleans. The 37-year-old has experienced massive success since his debut album “good kid, m.A.A.d city” in 2012. Since then, he’s accumulated 17 Grammy wins and became the first non-classical, non-jazz musician to win a Pulitzer Prize. NBA memo to players urges increased vigilance regarding home security following break-ins MIAMI (AP) — The NBA is urging its players to take additional precautions to secure their homes following reports of recent high-profile burglaries of dwellings owned by Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis and Kansas City Chiefs teammates Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. In a memo sent to team officials, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press, the NBA revealed that the FBI has connected some burglaries to “transnational South American Theft Groups” that are “reportedly well-organized, sophisticated rings that incorporate advanced techniques and technologies, including pre-surveillance, drones, and signal jamming devices.” Ancient meets modern as a new subway in Greece showcases archaeological treasures THESSALONIKI, Greece (AP) — Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is opening a new subway system, blending ancient archaeological treasures with modern transit technology like driverless trains and platform screen doors. The project, which began in 2003, uncovered over 300,000 artifacts, including a Roman-era thoroughfare and Byzantine relics, many of which are now displayed in its 13 stations. Despite delays caused by preserving these findings, the inaugural line has been completed, with a second line set to open next year. Conor McGregor must pay $250K to woman who says he raped her, civil jury rules LONDON (AP) — A civil jury in Ireland has awarded more than $250,000 to a woman who says she was raped by mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor in a Dublin hotel penthouse after a night of heavy partying. The jury on Friday awarded Nikita Hand in her lawsuit that claimed McGregor “brutally raped and battered” her in 2018. The lawsuit says the assault left her heavily bruised and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. McGregor testified that he never forced her to do anything and that Hand fabricated her allegations after the two had consensual sex. McGregor says he will appeal the verdict. At least 19 people are sick in Minnesota from ground beef tied to E. coli recall U.S. health officials say at least 19 people in Minnesota have been sickened by E. coli poisoning tied to a national recall of more than 167,000 pounds of potentially tainted ground beef. Detroit-based Wolverine Packing Co. recalled the meat sent to restaurants nationwide. Minnesota state agriculture officials reported multiple illnesses and found that a sample of the product tested positive for E. coli, which can cause life-threatening infections. No illnesses have been reported outside of Minnesota. Symptoms of E. coli poisoning include fever, vomiting, diarrhea and signs of dehydration. Actor Jonathan Majors’ ex-girlfriend drops assault and defamation lawsuit against once-rising star NEW YORK (AP) — Jonathan Majors’ ex-girlfriend has dropped her assault and defamation lawsuit against the once-rising Hollywood star after reaching a settlement. Lawyers for Majors and Grace Jabbari agreed to dismiss the case with prejudice Thursday. Jabbari is a British dancer who had accused Majors of subjecting her to escalating incidents of physical and verbal abuse during their relationship. Representatives for Majors didn’t respond to emails seeking comment Friday. Jabbari’s lawyer said the suit was “favorably settled” and her client is moving on with “her head held high.” Majors was convicted of misdemeanor assault and harassment last December and sentenced to a yearlong counseling program. Hyundai, Kia recall over 208,000 electric vehicles to fix problem that can cause loss of power DETROIT (AP) — Hyundai and Kia are recalling over 208,000 electric vehicles to fix a pesky problem that can cause loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. The recalls cover more than 145,000 Hyundai and Genesis vehicles including the 2022 through 2024 Ioniq 5, the 2023 through 2025 Ioniq 6, GV60 and GV70, and the 2023 and 2024 G80. Also included are nearly 63,000 Kia EV 6 vehicles from 2022 through 2024. The affiliated Korean automakers say in government documents that a transistor in a charging control unit can be damaged and stop charging the 12-volt battery. Dealers will inspect and replace the control unit and a fuse if needed. They also will update software. Christmas TV movies are in their Taylor Swift era, with two Swift-inspired films airing this year Two of the new holiday movies coming to TV this season have a Taylor Swift connection that her fans would have no problem decoding. “Christmas in the Spotlight” debuts Saturday on Lifetime. It stars Jessica Lord as the world’s biggest pop star and Laith Wallschleger, playing a pro football player, who meet and fall in love, not unlike Swift and her boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. On Nov. 30, Hallmark will air “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story.” Instead of a nod to Swift, it’s an ode to family traditions and bonding, like rooting for a sports team. Hallmark’s headquarters is also in Kansas City. Top football recruit Bryce Underwood changes commitment to Michigan instead of LSU, AP source says ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — Top football recruit Bryce Underwood has flipped to Michigan after pledging to play at LSU. That's according to a person familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to share the recruit’s plans to join the Wolverines. Underwood pinned a post on his Instagram account, showing a post in which On3.com reported that he has committed to Michigan. The 6-foot-3 quarterback played at Belleville High School about 15 miles east of Michigan's campus, and told LSU nearly a year ago he intended to enroll there. Emperor penguin released at sea 20 days after waddling onto Australian beach MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — The only emperor penguin known to have swum from Antarctica to Australia has been released at sea 20 days after he waddled ashore on a popular tourist beach. The adult male was found on Nov. 1 on sand dunes in temperate southwest Australia about 2,200 miles north of the Antarctic coast. He was released Wednesday from a boat that traveled several hours from Western Australia state's most southerly city of Albany. His caregiver Carol Biddulph wasn't sure at first if the penguin would live. She said a mirror was important to his rehabilitation because they provide a sense of company. Biddulph said: “They’re social birds and he stands next to the mirror most of the time.”

Free trial or not, snagging Black Friday deals for price cuts on streaming services feels like a win. Paramount Plus rolled out its holiday special that gets you your first two months of the service at $3 per month. New and returning subscribers have the option to choose whether you want the discount for the ad-based Essential plan or ad-free Paramount Plus with Showtime. NFL football, Tyler Sheridan's Landman , Gladiator , Transformers One and the upcoming Dexter: Original Sin may make this an attractive offer for the platform's catalog. This Black Friday offer is available from Nov. 25 through Wednesday, Dec. 4, and applies only to monthly subscriptions. Once the two-month discount expires, plans will be billed at their regular monthly rates of $8 for Essential and $13 for Paramount Plus with Showtime. Hey, did you know? CNET Deals texts are free, easy and save you money . Paramount Plus streams original TV shows and films such as Lioness, Evil, Tulsa King and the new Jack Black-as-Satan holiday film Dear Santa . It's also home to Nickelodeon and CBS content, making it easy for anyone to watch SpongeBob and Paw Patrol along with NCIS, Poppa's House, Blue Bloods and live sports. This season, viewers can tune in for the streamer's holiday lineup of classic and newer movies and TV releases. And while horror fans won't be disappointed with titles like A Quiet Place, you can upgrade for Showtime faves like The Chi and Billions. Don't miss out on this deal if you want to cozy up for a TV streaming binge this season. Why this deal matters Like its rivals, Paramount Plus implemented price increases on its subscription plans in summer 2024. While the streamer didn't raise the rates on its annual subscriptions, new subscribers saw a bump from $6 to $8 for the monthly Essential plan and an increase of $12 to $13 for the premium plan with Showtime. The Black Friday discount shaves off $4 for ad-based Paramount Plus and takes $9 off the ad-free version. CNET is always covering a wide array of deals on tech products and much more. Start with the hottest sales and discounts on the CNET Deals page , and sign up for the CNET Deals Text to get daily deals sent straight to your phone. Add the free CNET Shopping extension to your browser for real-time price comparisons and cash-back offers. Peruse our gift guide , which includes a full range of ideas for birthdays, anniversaries and more.Russian state news agencies say ousted Syrian leader Bashar Assad is in Moscow and given asylum DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) — Russian state news agencies say the ousted Syrian President Bashar Assad has arrived in Moscow with his family and been given asylum, hours after close ally Russia said he left Syria after negotiations with rebel groups. The Russian agencies, Tass and RIA, cited an unidentified Kremlin source. The Associated Press is not immediately able to verify the reports but has contacted the Kremlin for comment. Assad reportedly left Syria early Sunday, and Syrians have been pouring into streets echoing with celebratory gunfire after a stunning rebel advance reached the capital, ending the Assad family’s 50 years of iron rule. The fall of Bashar Assad after 13 years of war in Syria brings to an end a decades-long dynasty BEIRUT (AP) — Syrian President Bashar Assad has fled the country. Assad’s departure on Sunday brings to a dramatic close his nearly 14-year struggle to hold onto power in a brutal civil war that became a proxy battlefield for regional and international powers. Assad’s exit stood in stark contrast to his first months as Syria’s unlikely president in 2000, when many hoped he would be a young reformer after three decades of his father’s iron grip. But faced with protests of his rule that erupted in March 2011, Assad turned to his father's brutal tactics to crush dissent. A long stalemate was quickly broken when opposition groups in northwest Syria launched a surprise offensive late last month. Who is Abu Mohammed al-Golani, the leader of the insurgency that toppled Syria's Assad? BEIRUT (AP) — Abu Mohammed al-Golani, the militant leader who led the stunning insurgency that toppled Syria’s President Bashar Assad, has spent years working to remake his public image and that of his fighters. He renounced longtime ties to al-Qaida and depicts himself as a champion of pluralism and tolerance. The extent of that transformation from jihadi extremist to would-be state builder is now put to the test. The 42-year-old al-Golani is labeled a terrorist by the United States. He has not appeared publicly since Damascus fell early Sunday. But he and his insurgent force, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, stand to be a major player in whatever comes next. Trump says he can't guarantee tariffs won't raise US prices and won't rule out revenge prosecutions WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump says he can’t guarantee his promised tariffs on key U.S. foreign trade partners won’t raise prices for American consumers. And he's suggesting once more that some political rivals and federal officials who pursued legal cases against him should be imprisoned. The president-elect made the comments in a wide-ranging interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press” that aired Sunday. He also touched on monetary policy, immigration, abortion and health care, and U.S. involvement in Ukraine, Israel and elsewhere. Trump often mixed declarative statements with caveats, at one point cautioning “things do change.” Trump calls for immediate ceasefire in Ukraine and says a US withdrawal from NATO is possible WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump is pushing Russian leader Vladimir Putin to act to reach an immediate ceasefire with Ukraine. Trump describes it as part of his active efforts as president-elect to end the war despite being weeks from taking office. Trump also said he would be open to reducing military aid to Ukraine and pulling the United States out of NATO. Those are two threats that have alarmed Ukraine, NATO allies and many in the U.S. national security community. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says any deal would have to pave the way to a lasting peace. The Kremlin's spokesman says Moscow is open to talks with Ukraine. The hunt for UnitedHealthcare CEO's elusive killer yields new evidence, but few answers NEW YORK (AP) — Police don’t know who he is, where he is, or why he did it. As the frustrating search for UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s killer got underway for a fifth day Sunday, investigators reckoned with a tantalizing contradiction: They have troves of evidence, but the shooter remains an enigma. One conclusion they are confident of, however: It was a targeted attack, not a random one. On Sunday morning, police declined to comment on the contents of a backpack found in Central Park that they believe was carried by the killer. South Korean prosecutors detain ex-defense chief over martial law imposition SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korean prosecutors have detained a former defense minister who allegedly recommended last week’s brief but stunning martial law imposition to President Yoon Suk Yeol. Local media say that ex-Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun voluntarily appeared on Sunday at a Seoul prosecutors’ office, where he had his mobile phone confiscated and was detained. A law enforcement official says Kim was later sent to a Seoul detention facility. Kim's detention came a day after Yoon avoided an opposition-led bid to impeach him, with most ruling party lawmakers boycotting a floor vote to prevent a two-thirds majority needed to suspend his presidential powers. Trump's return may be a boon for Netanyahu, but challenges abound in a changed Middle East TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is jubilant about President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Trump's first term policies skewed heavily in favor of Israel, and he has picked stalwart Israel supporters for key positions in his administration. But much has transpired since Trump left office in early 2021. The turmoil in the Middle East, the lofty ambitions of Netanyahu’s far-right governing coalition and Netanyahu’s own personal relationship with the president-elect could dampen that enthusiasm and complicate what on the surface looks like a seamless alliance. A farming project in South Africa is helping deaf people build skills and find jobs JOHANNESBURG (AP) — In South Africa, where the general unemployment rate is over 32%, deaf people face even steeper hurdles. Unlike their counterparts who can hear and speak, they must struggle to communicate in sign language while trying to gain opportunities for jobs and skills development. Now a deaf entrepreneur who quit her job at one of the biggest banks in the country has created an organization where the deaf can be trained in agriculture, develop their skills and earn a sustainable living. The farming sector is emerging as a solace for those with disabilities who also face the dire levels of unemployment in Africa’s most developed economy. First 12-team College Football Playoff set, Oregon seeded No. 1 and SMU edges Alabama for last spot SMU captured the last open spot in the 12-team College Football Playoff, bumping Alabama to land in a bracket that placed undefeated Oregon at No. 1. The selection committee preferred the Mustangs (11-2), losers of a heartbreaker in the Atlantic Coast Conference title game, who had a far less difficult schedule than Alabama (9-3) of the SEC but one fewer loss. The first-of-its-kind 12-team bracket marks a new era for college football, though the Alabama-SMU debate made clear there is no perfect formula. The tournament starts Dec. 20-21 with four first-round games. It concludes Jan. 20 with the national title game in Atlanta.

bet past tense I’ve been bullied relentlessly because my parents named me after a Game of Thrones character, I’m desperate to change it

James Glenday is announced as Michael Rowland's ABC News Breakfast replacementTyrese Hunter tossed in a game-high 26 points to lead Memphis to a 99-97 upset victory over No. 2 UConn on Monday in the first round of the Maui Invitational in Lahaina, Hawaii. Hunter, who played at Iowa State and Texas before transferring to Memphis, made eight field goals with 7-of-10 3-point shooting. The Tigers (5-0) connected on 12 of their 22 3-point attempts in the win. UConn's Hassan Diarra made a free throw to cut the Memphis lead to 99-97 with 2.2 seconds left. He intentionally missed the second free throw and collected the loose ball, but his desperation shot was off the mark. It was 92-92 when UConn's Liam McNeeley was called for an offensive foul with 40.3 seconds left. UConn coach Dan Hurley received a technical for arguing the foul call, and PJ Carter made all four free throws to give the Tigers a four-point lead. Memphis, which squandered a 13-point lead with four minutes to play in regulation, received 22 points from PJ Haggerty, 19 from Colby Rogers and 14 from Dain Dainja. Memphis will play the winner of Monday night's game between Colorado and Michigan State in Tuesday's semifinals. UConn will face the loser of that contest. Tarris Reed Jr. had a team-high 22 points and a game-high 11 rebounds for UConn (4-1) before he fouled out with 3:18 to play. He made 10 of his 13 field goal attempts. Alex Karaban added 19 points for the Huskies. Jaylin Stewart scored a career-high 16 points, Diarra had 12 and McNeeley added 10. UConn trailed 82-79 after Diarra made two free throws with 24.2 seconds to play in regulation. The Huskies then forced a turnover and tied the game on a 3-pointer by Solo Ball with 1.2 on the clock. Although Memphis shot 56.5 percent from the field (13 for 23) and 50 percent from 3-point territory (5 for 10) in the first half, the game was tied 40-40 after 20 minutes. Neither team led by more than six points in the half. UConn received 29 points from its bench in the first half. Reed scored 15 of those points and Stewart supplied the other 14. --Field Level Media

The Russian-language ransomware scene isn't all that big. And despite an array of monikers for individual operations, new analysis shows these groups' members are working in close coordination, sharing tactics, botnets, and malware among one another, as well as with the Russian state. And now, a new power player ransomware group brand has emerged — BlackBasta. Since the spectacular law enforcement takedown of Conti's operations in 2022, the Russian-language ransomware landscape has been a bit in flux. Upending usual business operations further was the subsequent August 2023 takedown of Qakbot botnets, long relied upon by these groups to deliver their ransomware. The law enforcement action, called "Operation Duck Hunt," removed Qakbot malware from more than 700,000 infected machines. The Qakbot botnet takedown success would be short lived. Analysts started to see the it pop back up in cyberattacks just a couple of months later. Even so, by January, BlackBasta has already pivoted and was observed using a competing botnet tool called Pikabot, along with an emerging new threat group, Water Curupira, which similarly used Pikabot to drop BlackBasta ransomware . From there BlackBasta diversified into phishing , vishing, and social engineering , as well as buying entry into target networks from initial access brokers. But by last August, the ransomware group was using its own custom-developed malware , Cogscan, used to map victim networks and sniff out the most valuable data, as well as a .NET-based utility called Knotrock, used to execute ransomware. Related: Dark Reading Confidential: Pen-Test Arrests, 5 Years Later In a new report, RedSense cybersecurity analyst Yelisey Bohuslavskiy has provided a detailed look at the evolution of BlackBasta tactics, concluding that the group's requirement to adapt in the wake of large-scale law enforcement has made it a leader in the Russian-language ransomware space. In fact, Bohuslavskiy worries that the group is in a position to become an important partner of the Russian state. In the report, he used the example of the punishing rounds of cyberattacks against the healthcare sector this year and a potential bleak peek at what's to come. "Considering the abnormality of 2024 high-profile attacks against healthcare, I am concerned about the potential liaison between BlackBasta and [Russian nation-state threat actor] Nobelium [Midnight Blizzard] and the Russian security apparatus in general," Bohuslavskiy tells Dark Reading. "While at this point, the connection is mostly MS Teams exploitation and some other TTPs and can not be confirmed, if in the future Russian ransomware groups will develop direct cooperation with the Russian state, this will result in tangible deterioration of the threat landscape." Related: Leaky Cybersecurity Holes Put Water Systems at Risk He predicts that BlackBasta and the hackers in its orbit will get increasingly sophisticated in their attacks in the months to come, namely social engineering attempts at compromising credentials. "I would advise preparing for defending different social engineering against endpoints with a focus on credentials," Bohuslavskiy adds. "Cisco, Fortinet, and Citrix credentials are definitely the main focus of BlackBasta now. I would also look at GitHub repositories and other open repositories that an enterprise may have, as we are seeing these actors hunting for them." This is good news for cyber defenders. Social engineering is a much less efficient way to disseminate ransomware versus a botnet blast, Bohuslavskiy adds. "To my opinion, the most important thing is that law enforcement action is working," he says. "The transition shows a slow but steady movement from botnets to social engineering, even for traditionalists like BlackBasta. And by all means, social engineering is inferior to botnets in dissemination." Related: Going Beyond Secure by Demand Bohuslavskiy points to the Conti group's foray into a massive experiment with call centers filled with people conducting social engineering cyberattacks, adding that it turned out to be a flop. "Trickbot, Emotet, and Qbot were the ultimate sources of ransomware delivery for the entirety of the Russian-speaking domain, and by now, all of them are down due to law enforcement action," he says. "No substitute has come since. However, we should be aware that the leadership of the groups also understands this, and therefore, they will try to double down on developing new botnets. This is why I predict that BlackBasta's plays with social engineering will be short-lived." Expert ransomware negotiator Ed Dubrovsky, COO and partner at Cypfer, isn't sure it's that simple. In his experience, he explains, these Russian RaaS operations are highly decentralized groups of individual hackers with a complex organizational structure. Assigning cooperation between groups and the Russian state implies a level of operational coordination he hasn't seen. When one group is taken down by law enforcement, individual talent easily flows to another brand, in his view. "We tend to bunch them up together into a named group like BlackBasta, which is nothing more than an umbrella structure offering software and infrastructure solutions and some adjacent services," Dubrovsky says. "They are completely dependent on the affiliates, aka franchisees, to actually conduct attacks. So to claim that there is cooperation between nation-state actors and a ransomware 'brand' or 'franchise' is almost equivalent to saying McDonald's is working with state actors because they have a McDonald's in Russia." He suggests it's more likely individuals shuffling around ransomware trade secrets driven purely by return on investment rather than commitment to any specific group or specific fear of law enforcement. It's also important to note that "Russian-speaking" doesn't necessarily mean "Russian threat actors" when it comes to the hackers circulating around these RaaS operations, Ngoc Bui, cyber expert with Menlo Security says. "Many Dark Web forums and illicit communities predominantly use the Russian language, but this doesn’t necessarily mean all participants are Russian," she explains. "This distinction is critical when interpreting predictions about increased coordination." She adds there is a "golden rule" among these adversaries. "As long as operations don’t target Russia or its allies, they are often overlooked," she says. "This tolerance can make Russia an appealing environment for cybercriminals to operate, whether or not direct state coordination is involved." Beyond assigning specific tactics to various brands, Dubrovsky urges cybersecurity teams to focus on protecting their systems from increasingly well-funded and well-trained Russian-speaking ransomware adversaries. The entire threat landscape has been exploding since 2013, and he views its "further deterioration" predicted by Bohuslavskiy as an obvious given. "Could we say that this will accelerate even more due to the resources available to [threat actors] and certainly nation-states? Absolutely," Dubrovsky adds. "Would/could it be directly correlated because of observed TTPs? Not sure this will ever be conclusive. The real question is how do we defend against threat actors with increasing resources and capabilities to cause more impact."

Introducing Mujin Co., Ltd.: Redefining Lightweight Steel Structures in the USA Market 12-19-2024 11:34 PM CET | Industry, Real Estate & Construction Press release from: ABNewswire Mujin Co., Ltd., a pioneer in innovative interior solutions, is set to revolutionize the U.S. construction industry with its advanced lightweight steel structure systems. Established in 1992 in Busan, South Korea, Mujin has become synonymous with durability, safety, and eco-friendly building materials, earning its reputation as a leader in the field. With over 30 years of expertise and a portfolio of 270+ successfully delivered projects, Mujin is now ready to bring its groundbreaking technologies to the United States. A Legacy of Excellence Mujin Co., Ltd. specializes in lightweight steel systems designed for interior ceilings and walls. From its inception, the company has prioritized innovation, engineering products to meet or exceed rigorous Korean standards for safety and quality. Mujin's systems are renowned for their ability to withstand seismic activity, ensuring stability and reliability in a variety of construction applications. With a commitment to continuous improvement, Mujin aims to redefine building standards globally. Core Product Offerings M-Bar and Clip-Bar Systems Mujin's signature M-Bar and Clip-Bar systems form the backbone of its product line. Designed to provide sturdy frameworks for ceilings and walls, these systems enhance both safety and efficiency during construction. 1. M-Bar System: Ideal for ceiling applications, the M-Bar System consists of C-shaped metal channels that support finishes such as drywall, tiles, or acoustic panels. 2. Clip-Bar System: This system complements the M-Bar System by securely attaching ceiling panels or tiles, streamlining installation while ensuring a seamless finish. MJ Ceiling Panels Mujin's MJ Ceiling Panels are celebrated for their lightweight composition, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Crafted from materials like gypsum board or metal, these panels are easy to install and maintain, making them an excellent choice for modern interiors. Why Mujin Stands Out 1. Durability and Safety Mujin products are engineered to withstand seismic forces, offering unparalleled safety in earthquake-prone regions. Their robust construction ensures long-lasting performance in residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. 2. Commitment to Sustainability By reducing the overall weight of buildings, Mujin's solutions contribute to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Lightweight structures not only minimize material usage but also lower transportation and installation costs. 3. Proven Expertise With decades of industry experience, Mujin combines traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to deliver precision-engineered components. Its dedication to quality has made it a trusted name in the Korean construction sector. Expanding into the U.S. Market The U.S. construction industry is increasingly adopting sustainable and innovative building materials to meet evolving market demands. Mujin's entry into the U.S. market comes at a time when the emphasis on eco-friendly construction and seismic safety is more significant than ever. Mujin's lightweight steel systems align perfectly with these priorities, offering a compelling value proposition to architects, builders, and developers. Headquarters and Contact Information Mujin Co., Ltd.'s headquarters, located in Busan, South Korea, houses state-of-the-art quality control laboratories and a dedicated workforce committed to delivering excellence. Address: 11, Chungnyeol-daero 336beon-gil, Dongnae-gu, Busan, Republic of Korea Phone: +82 1661-2059 / +82 51-865-2884 Email: mujin4493@hanmail.net [mailto:mujin4493@hanmail.net] Conclusion As Mujin Co., Ltd. prepares to enter the U.S. market, its innovative lightweight steel systems promise to set new standards in interior construction. By prioritizing safety, sustainability, and superior engineering, Mujin is poised to become a trusted partner for American builders and developers. With a legacy of excellence and a vision for global progress, Mujin invites the U.S. construction industry to experience the next generation of interior solutions. Media Contact Company Name: Mujin Co., Ltd. Contact Person: Yong-ae Son Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=introducing-mujin-co-ltd-redefining-lightweight-steel-structures-in-the-usa-market ] Phone: +82 51-865-2884 Address:11, Chungnyeol-daero 336beon-gil, Dongnae-gu City: Busan Country: Korea Website: http://www.mujinapt.com/ This release was published on openPR.– At last night’s WWE NXT Deadline, Giulia won the women’s Iron Survivor Challenge to secure a title shot against NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez. Cora Jade later commented on the premium live event on social media , noting that Giulia isn’t good enough to beat her best friend, Perez. Cora Jade wrote, “The @WWENXT women’s division put on one hell of a show tonight as always, but you’ll still never be good enough to beat my bestie!!!!!!! @roxanne_wwe #WWEDeadline.” You can view her post below: The @WWENXT women’s division put on one hell of a show tonight as always, but you’ll still never be good enough to beat my bestie!!!!!!! @roxanne_wwe #WWEDeadline — Cora Jade (@CoraJadeWWE) December 8, 2024

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SHENZHEN, China , Dec. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On November 26, 2024 , Access Advance LLC ("AA") and TCL Electronics Holdings Limited ("TCL" or "Client") announced that TCL had officially joined the HEVC Advance Patent Pool as a licensee. PurpleVine IP Group ("PurpleVine") played a pivotal role in this achievement, providing full-spectrum services, including strategic planning, global litigation management, and licensing negotiation support. PurpleVine's efforts were instrumental in helping TCL finalize agreements with AA and multiple HEVC Advance licensors, resolving years of complex global litigation over HEVC standard-essential patents("SEPs"). Since 2021, leading HEVC Advance licensors - including Dolby, GEVC, Philips, Mitsubishi Electric, JVCKENWOOD, NEC, ETRI, and IP Bridge - have filed dozens of infringement lawsuits and sought injunctions against TCL across jurisdictions such as Germany , the Unified Patent Court (UPC) in Europe , and Brazil . PurpleVine provided TCL with a comprehensive defense strategy tailored to each jurisdiction. Working closely with local counsel, the PurpleVine team devised FRAND-compliant arguments, non-infringement defenses, and patent invalidation strategies that not only neutralized injunction threats but also achieved an outstanding success rate of over 90% in invalidating asserted patents during first-instance rulings. PurpleVine also spearheaded counteractions against AA and HEVC Advance licensors in multiple jurisdictions, including China , Brazil , and Germany . Notably, PurpleVine assisted TCL in filing two landmark cases in Chinese courts - one challenging SEP licensing rates and another alleging abuse of market dominance. These cases were the first in the world where courts asserted jurisdiction over SEP pool licensing rates and alleged monopolistic practices, setting a groundbreaking legal precedent. Daniel Fu , General Counsel of TCL, stated, "We are pleased to have signed a license with Access Advance's HEVC patent pool, with the help of PurpleVine IP. The transaction is beneficial to the licensing ecosystem and the development of cutting-edge technologies for the welfare of consumers." This multi-jurisdictional case, involving complex legal challenges, spanning several years, highlights PurpleVine's expertise in managing high-stakes IP disputes. PurpleVine's strategic leadership, effective litigation management, and skilled negotiations reaffirm its position as a leading provider of cross-border intellectual property services. Disclaimer: This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or an official statement regarding litigation. About PurpleVine IP Group PurpleVine IP Group, based in Shenzhen, China , is a leading intellectual property service provider with a global perspective. The firm offers one-stop IP services, including patent and trademark prosecution, analysis, global transactions, licensing negotiations, and dispute resolution. The core members of PurpleVine's litigation and dispute resolution team have backgrounds in top international law firms and leading corporate legal departments. They have managed patent litigation and invalidation cases in over 50 courts worldwide. The firm also includes SEP (Standard Essential Patent) experts from the telecommunications industry, who have been involved in hundreds of patent licensing negotiations and litigations. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2570709/image_5028630_31358646.jpgBEIJING , Dec. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- At the end of 2024, we take a look back at the Chinese economy's performance this year. China's domestic GDP grew by 5.3 percent year-on-year in the first quarter, 4.7 percent in the second quarter and 4.6 percent in the third quarter this year, with an average growth rate of 4.8 percent in the first three quarters. Since September, as a package of incremental policies continues to yield its effects, China's economy maintains an upward trend. Overall, we are fully confident in achieving our economic growth goal this year. The country's economic performance has been hard-won. Externally, transformations around the world unseen in a century are unfolding at a greater pace, with global economic growth remaining sluggish, and the complexity, severity and uncertainty of the external environment on the rise. At home, domestic demand is insufficient, social expectations remain weak and there are difficulties associated with structural adjustments. The situation is severe and complex, and the task is difficult and weighty. However, under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, Chinese localities and government agencies are more confident and are taking solid steps to deliver outcomes. The results underscore that "fundamentals of the Chinese economy, and favorable conditions such as a vast market, strong economic resilience and great potential remain unchanged." Huge market, vast space Markets are the scarcest resource. The modernization achieved by 1.4 billion Chinese people has resulted in the addition of a new super-large market larger than those of all developed countries combined. The new development paradigm will enable China to fully unlock its market potential and create greater demand for other countries. With a new car rolling off production line on November 14 , China's annual production of new energy vehicles (NEVs) surpassed the 10 million milestone, becoming the first country in the world to do so. Behind the number is China's robust supply and demand. In the first 10 months, China's production and sales of NEVs grew by 33 percent and 33.9 percent year-on-year, respectively. China continues to take the lead in the electrification and intelligence transformation of the automotive industry, which is attributed to the supply, policy support and demand advantage in the ultra-large market. Markets bring valuable business opportunities. Take cars for example. By the end of June, China had 345 million cars, but the country's car ownership level per 1,000 residents is less than half of that in developed countries. Additionally, China's NEV ownership is only 24.72 million, which means continuous demand in the future. Markets breed competition advantages. China's vast market contributes to the formation of "economy of scale" and "economy of scope," which generates greater profits for enterprises and reduces innovations costs, and also helps provide a large number of application scenarios and boost the large-scale application of innovations. China leads the world in batteries, motors and electronic control technologies, while its intelligent cockpits and intelligent driving are internationally advanced. Thanks to the benign interactions between supply and demand, the industrialization of new technologies and new products is speeding up. Strong resilience, solid basis Resilience strengthens self-belief. China has come to where it is today after overcoming all kinds of difficulties and challenges. Foreign trade is an important barometer in this regard. In the first 10 months of the year, China's foreign goods trade rose by 5.2 percent year-on-year to reach a new high compared with the same period historically. The improvement in the quality and efficiency of the country's foreign trade against the backdrop of shrinking external demand reflects China's economic resilience. This resilience originates from China's solid manufacturing basis and industrial chain advantages. "We could not do what we do without them," Apple CEO Tim Cook said of Chinese suppliers during his third visit to the Chinese mainland this year, as over 80 percent of Apple's 200 major suppliers have set up factories in China . China has the world's most comprehensive industrial categories and a well-rounded industrial system, with the scale of manufacturing industry ranking top for 14 consecutive years. The high-end, intelligent and green development of the manufacturing sector continues to strengthen the stability of the country's industrial and supply chain. In the first three quarters, the manufacturing industry contributed 32.2 percent to the country's economic growth, up 11.2 percentage points. China moved up to 11th place in the ranking of the world's most innovative economies. The basis is solid, and risks and challenges are not to be feared. Resilience also comes from excellent policy adjustments. The nation has been strengthening counter-cyclical adjustments, accelerating the implementation of major national strategies and the development of securities capabilities in key areas while supporting large-scale equipment upgrades and trade-in policies for consumer goods with robust measures, boosting the stabilization of the property market and galvanizing the capital market. The government has also put forward a package of measures to dissolve local government debt risks. This year, a series of existing policies continue to produce effects and incremental policies are being effectively implemented, jointly helping the economy stabilize. Vast potential, strong momentum China's economy has vast potential and many advantages and favorable conditions for sustaining long-term development momentum. China has been the world's second-largest economy for many years, but still has vast development potential in terms of per capita and structure. China's per capita GDP remains relatively low, and the country's amount of infrastructure per capita is only 20-30 percent of that of developed countries. In 2023, China's urbanization rate, which measures the ratio of permanent urban residents relative to the total population, reached 66.2 percent by the end of 2023. Estimates show that each percentage point increase in the urbanization rate could drive 1 trillion yuan ( $137.55 billion ) in investment. Currently, both China's fiscal deficit ratio and government debt ratio are low, and the country's policy toolbox remains well-stocked. The potential also lies in elementary resources. China's human resources in science and technology ranked first in the country and the average length of education received by new entrants into the workforce has increased to 14 years, turning the demographic dividend into a talent dividend. In addition, overall sufficient social capitals, vast room for the highly efficient use of land and the vast unleashing of the potential of digital elements provide solid foundational support. This potential also comes from the huge market. The country's population of over 1.4 billion and middle-income population of over 400 million support a large-scale, diverse and huge domestic market. Accelerating the building of a unified national market will improve overall economic operation efficiency and continuously unleash the potential of domestic demand. Overall, China is a country with vast territory, a large population and unbalanced and uncoordinated development. This is a shortcoming, but also represents potential and a driving force for future development. Sparking vitality and building synergy through reform is essential to continuously unleashing development potential. From implementing regulations for fair competition reviews, accelerating the legislative process of the law on the promotion of the private economy and formulating normal communication mechanisms between governments and enterprises, to releasing a new national negative list for foreign investment and removing all market access restrictions for foreign investors in the manufacturing sector, China's reforms in key fields continue to deepen this year and high-level opening-up advances in an in-depth way. The third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China adopted the Resolution of the CPC Central Committee on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization. Driven by reform of the economic system, China is correspondingly boosting reform in other fields, and the internal development momentum and vitality will continue to strengthen. Reviewing allows a clear understanding of the situation and better moving forward. While some major economies experience low growth rates and high inflation this year, China is expected to achieve its economic growth target of around 5 percent, and continue to contribute around 30 percent to world economic growth. This stable performance underlines the fact that China's economy will continue to remain on a positive trajectory over the long run. The story was originally published on the front page of the People's Daily on December 8, 2024 SOURCE Global Times

Robbins LLP Urges XRX Stockholders with Large Losses to Contact the Firm for information About ...