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Featured photo: Christmas Memories from 1976 By Dave Bradley Christmas is just a few days away and Santa is coming to my house this year with piles of presents for my little granddaughter. Even though I am a child of the 70s not too much has changed over the years except for the amount of toys that the big man manages to squeeze down the chimney. Every year I like to cast my mind back to the typical Christmases I enjoyed as a child, well the ones I can remember anyhow. The clearest memories I have were the years I worked with my dad on Christmas Eve. His name was Tom Bradley and he owned a pet shop in Cork. I worked with him each Saturday or on days off from school when I was a youngfella. I would be sent off with some string to gather empty shoe boxes from some of the long since closed shoe shops on the North Main Street These were used to put the budgies and canaries in for the trip from the shop to their new home. That, and cleaning out the cages were my main jobs, not as glamorous as some might have thought. Christmas was the busiest time of the year and Christmas Eve the busiest day. It was even busier than the eighth of December, the feast of the Immaculate Conception when traditionally families came ‘up from the country’ to do their Christmas shopping. Most people had already paid in advance for birds, cages, fish, bowls and tanks, rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs and they arrived all day to collect them. There were always a few panic buyers too grabbing a few last minute gifts. My dad never sold puppies, he felt they were too big a responsibility for an impulse buy and didn’t like seeing them in cages. The rest of the animals didn’t bother him though as he said they were bred in captivity. He was always kind and gentle with the animals that he owned and sold. The day was so busy it used to fly in but before we headed home we always had a few discreet deliveries to make, often good for a few tips for me. Last stop before home was to call to the local shop to pick up a supply of John Player Special, enough to get mum n dad through the holidays when the shops were closed. No checking for ID in those days, I used have to run in and make sure the change was right or I’d be sent back again, oh the shame. There was always a welcoming committee when we got home. My mum, sister and brother would be dying for us to get back so they could get started on the sweets (Roses), the biscuits (USA or Afternoon Tea) and a mineral, a choice from the crate of big glass bottles of Coke, Fanta, Tanora (a Cork Favourite) and the one bottle of Cidona for dad. The tradition of the family waiting till we got home before they started on the goodies kept me going during the day and it was years later when I was chatting to mum about it that she revealed that they could never wait but were sworn to silence to keep me happy. God it was a real treat to have a handful of sweets a pile of biscuits and as many glasses of the mineral (fizzy drink) of choice as we wanted. They really were simpler times and I’d say my mum had to save half the year for it in the days before credit unions and credit cards. I’d say it was watching RTE one on the telly cause that was the only station we had, till about nine o’clock and then off to bed. We would lie there chatting till the sleigh bells rang outside. When I was in the know I realised it was my mum ringing the bell, wonder what the neighbours thought? Then it was off to sleep to get ready for the early start with the stockings at the end of the bed to kick start Christmas morning. I can’t remember what presents we got but the happy memories will do.
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Two men have been charged in relation to break and enters in Iqaluit.Junior Kakkee, 27, has been charged in connection to break-ins that occurred at Inuksuk High School on Oct. 31, the Frobisher Inn central storage on Nov. 6, and the Arctic Winter Games Arena on Nov. 12. He faces three counts of break and enter, three counts of failing to comply with a release order, two counts of possession of a break and enter instrument, theft over $5,000, mischief over $5,000, and use of a mask to disguise his identity while committing an indictable offence.Kakkee was taken into custody, and was scheduled to make a court appearance in Iqaluit on Dec. 10.Akavak Mangitak, 39, was charged in connections to break-ins that occurred at the Iqaluit post office on three different occasions, as well as Canadian North Cargo on Dec. 1. He is charged with four counts of break and enter, two counts of failing to comply with a probation order and theft of mail.Mangitak was remanded into custody and his next court appearance is set for Jan. 7, 2025, in Iqaluit.Almost three quarters of Scottish businesses are confident about their prospects next year, a survey has suggested. The Bank of Scotland’s business barometer poll showed 73% of Scottish businesses expect to see turnover increase in 2025, up from 60% polled in 2023. Almost a quarter (23%) of businesses expect to see their revenue rise by between six and 10% over the next 12 months, with just over a fifth (21%) expecting it to grow by even more. The poll found that 70% of businesses were confident they would become more profitable in 2025, a two per cent increase when compared with the previous year. Revenue and profitability growth was firms’ top priority at 52%, though 40% said they will be targeting improved productivity, and the same proportion said they will be aiming to enhance their technology – such as automation or AI – or upskill their staff (both 29%). More than one in five (22%) want to improve their environmental sustainability. Other areas businesses are hoping to build upon AI-assisted technology (19%), and 24% will be investing in expanding into new UK markets and 23% plan to invest in staff training. The business barometer has surveyed 1,200 businesses every month since 2002, providing early signals about UK economic trends. Martyn Kendrick, Scotland director at Bank of Scotland commercial banking, said: “Scottish businesses are looking ahead to 2025 with stronger growth expectations, and setting out clear plans to drive this expansion through investments in new technology, new markets and their own teams. “As we enter the new year, we’ll continue to by their side to help them pursue their ambitions and seize all opportunities that lie ahead.”Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s 2025 Grand National tour includes N.C. and D.C. stops
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'Democracy and freedom': Jimmy Carter's human rights efforts in Latin AmericaFirst Class Delta Passenger Finds Service Dog in His Seat, Told He's Been Downgraded: 'There's No Way That Dog Has Spent As Much As I Have'WISeKey’s Subsidiary SEALCOIN 2025 Roadmap: Leading Machine-to-Machine Transactions Through Blockchain and Space Innovation Zug, Switzerland — December 30, 2024 - WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: WKEY; SIX: WIHN), a global leader in cybersecurity, AI, blockchain, and IoT technologies, that its subsidiary, SEALCOIN AG, ends 2024 as a leader in secure, decentralized IoT ecosystems. Utilizing its blockchain-based TIOT token, SEALCOIN empowers IoT devices to autonomously exchange data, energy, and services, transforming real-time interactions with unmatched trust and efficiency. In January 2025, SEALCOIN will achieve a major milestone in cooperation with WISeSat AG, another WISeKey subsidiary which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, with the launch of a new generation of WISeSat satellites designed to support autonomous machine-to-machine (M2M) transactions from space. This Proof of Concept (PoC) will demonstrate secure, satellite-initiated transactions with IoT devices, marking a significant step toward creating a scalable Transactional IoT (t-IoT) infrastructure. By combining SEALCOIN’s decentralized platform with WISeSat’s capabilities, the PoC will showcase how blockchain and space technologies can enable global IoT networks with unparalleled security and scalability. Earlier in 2024, SEALCOIN successfully conducted a PoC for t-IoT transactions between two devices, proving its ability to disintermediate service providers and securely manage decentralized device interactions. The upcoming generation of WISeSat satellites will feature enhanced operational capabilities tailored for M2M transactions, reinforcing SEALCOIN’s position as a pioneer in space-based digital ecosystems. With decentralized ledger technology ensuring secure, tamper-proof exchanges, SEALCOIN is driving innovation in industries like energy, logistics, and environmental monitoring, expanding the possibilities for IoT devices to interact autonomously in real-time. SEALCOIN’s roadmap for 2025 focuses on scaling its space-based IoT initiatives, refining blockchain solutions for advanced security and scalability, and exploring partnerships to expand the transactional IoT ecosystem. By addressing real-world challenges with innovative solutions, SEALCOIN continues to deliver long-term value to stakeholders and set new standards for global IoT ecosystems. With Swiss regulatory compliance, advanced encryption, and collaboration with cutting-edge technologies like Hedera Hashgraph, SEALCOIN’s decentralized architecture ensures trust, transparency, and privacy in IoT transactions. SEALCOIN AG is revolutionizing the future of machine-to-machine transactions with its innovative integration of blockchain and space technology. SEALCOIN is committed to fostering secure, scalable, and autonomous IoT ecosystems, enabling a new era of interconnected devices. About WISeKey WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform. Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com . Disclaimer This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa's predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey. Press and Investor Contacts
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(CNN) — Top GOP senators on Monday signaled support for Donald Trump’s plan to oust the current FBI director in favor of firebrand loyalist Kash Patel , while keeping the door open for Pete Hegseth, who faces a slate of misconduct allegations, as the president-elect’s pick to run the Pentagon. Sen. Joni Ernst, who sits on the Armed Services Committee and is seen as a key potential swing vote, issued a positive assessment of her meeting with Hegseth on Capitol Hill on Monday. Ernst said that her conversations with the veteran and former Fox News host have been “encouraging,” and that he has “committed to completing a full audit of the Pentagon and selecting a senior official who will uphold the roles and value of our servicemen and women — based on quality and standards, not quotas — and who will prioritize and strengthen my work to prevent sexual assault within the ranks.” The statement shows that Hegseth has made progress in his attempt to win over senators after his nomination appeared to be in serious jeopardy last week over a 2017 sexual assault allegation as even Trump allies in Congress expressed concerns. Trump has continued to back Hegseth, however, setting up a challenge for any GOP senator who might go up against the pick. It is still early in the vetting process for Trump’s Cabinet nominees and confirmation votes won’t take place until next year. But it is clear that GOP senators are being careful to pick their battles and cautious of how they approach the president-elect’s selections. Hegseth denies any wrongdoing and has forcefully pushed back against the allegations against him, describing them as unfounded attacks. He told CNN on Monday that he had a “very good meeting” with Ernst. Still, when pressed by CNN, Ernst would not say if she feels confident with Hegseth’s denials over the allegation. “I’ll refer you back to the statement,” she said. Ernst added, “It’s to be determined” if she will have another meeting with Hegseth. So far, Senate Republicans appear to be falling in line behind Trump’s pick for Patel to run the FBI. Putting Patel in charge of the FBI would require forcing out current director Christopher Wray, who was appointed by Trump, before his term expires, and would put a self-described enemy of the so-called deep state at the head of the nation’s top law enforcement agency. Sen. John Cornyn of Texas said Monday that he is inclined to support Patel to be FBI director, while Ernst said Trump’s pick will “create much-needed transparency” at the agency after meeting with Patel on Capitol Hill. Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, the incoming chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, sent a scathing letter to Wray and his top deputy on Monday, saying he has “no confidence” in the current leadership of the bureau. Cornyn said he did not know what Wray’s plans were, but he expects Patel to be confirmed. “I assume that Mr. Patel will be confirmed as the next FBI director. We talked about the importance of restoring the reputation of the FBI as a non-partisan law enforcement investigative agency,” the Texas Republican said. Cornyn said after their conversation that he is “certainly inclined to support him – barring some unforeseen circumstances.” Asked if he believes Wray should resign or wait to be fired, Cornyn said, “I’m not going to get involved in that. That’s up to President Trump and Director Wray.” Asked about Patel’s history of controversial comments, Cornyn said, “I interpret that as hyperbole and I think he will tell you that same thing.” Patel has heavily criticized the FBI and, in a podcast interview in September, called for the agency’s headquarters in Washington, DC, to be dismantled and turned into a “museum of the deep state.” In his 2023 book, “Government Gangsters: The Deep State, the Truth, and the Battle for Our Democracy,” Patel lambasted “crazed partisans” for hijacking “the law enforcement apparatus” against Trump. CNN’s Morgan Rimmer and Ali Main contributed to this report. The-CNN-Wire TM & © 2024 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.Have your say on Canada’s greenwashing rules