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2 joints hanggang NEW YORK (AP) — Sean “Diddy” Combs ' lawyers tried for a third time Friday to persuade a judge to let the hip-hop mogul out of jail while he awaits his sex trafficking trial, but a decision won’t come until next week as prosecutors warned of his "concerted effort" from behind bars to disrupt the case. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian said he'll rule promptly on Combs’ bail request after the defense and prosecution file letters by noon Monday fleshing out some of the arguments they made during at a two-hour hearing in Manhattan federal court. Combs’ lawyers pitched having him await trial under around-the-clock surveillance either at his mansion on an island near Miami Beach or — after the judge scoffed at that location — at an apartment on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Their $50 million bail proposal, secured by his Florida home, essentially amounts to keeping Combs on house arrest instead of in custody at the troubled Brooklyn federal jail where he’s been held for 67 days since his September arrest. Under their plan, Combs' lawyers said he'll be under near-total restrictions on his ability to see or contact anyone but them. But prosecutors argued that no bail conditions can mitigate Combs' “risk of obstruction and dangerousness to others.” Combs has routinely flouted jail rules while locked up at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, prosecutors said, accusing him of attempting to interfere with witnesses and taint the jury pool. “Really, this amounts to the defendant paying his way out of custody,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy Slavik told Subramanian. Defense lawyer Anthony Ricco countered that the prosecution’s portrayal of Combs as "a lawless person who doesn’t follow instructions” or “an out-of-control individual who has to be detained” is inaccurate. Another Combs lawyer, Teny Geragos, added that given the strict release conditions they've proposed, “it would be impossible for him not to follow rules." Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to charges that he coerced and abused women for years with help from a network of associates and employees while silencing victims through blackmail and violence, including kidnapping, arson and physical beatings. His trial is slated to begin May 5. Two other judges previously concluded that the Bad Boy Records founder would be a danger to the community if he is freed, and an appeals court judge last month denied Combs’ immediate release while a three-judge panel of the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals weighs his bail request. Friday's hearing was the second time Combs was in court this week. On Tuesday, a judge blocked prosecutors from using as evidence papers that were seized from his cell during a jail-wide sweep for contraband and weapons. As he entered through a side door, Combs waved to relatives including his mother and several of his children in the courtroom gallery, tapping his hand to his heart and blowing kisses at them. He then hugged his lead attorney, Marc Agnifilo, before sitting at the defense table. Combs was not handcuffed or shackled and wore a beige jail uniform, occasionally pulling a pair of reading glasses from his pocket as he peered at papers in front of him. Prosecutors contend that while incarcerated the “I’ll Be Missing You” singer has orchestrated social media campaigns aimed at influencing potential jurors. They allege that he has also attempted to leak materials he believes would help his case and is contacting potential witnesses via third parties. “Simply put, the defendant cannot be trusted,” Slavik argued. In renewing their push for Combs' release, his lawyers sought to undercut the strength of a potential key piece of evidence: a March 2016 video showing him hitting and kicking his then-girlfriend, R&B singer Cassie , in a Los Angeles hotel hallway. Prosecutors contend the assault happened during a “Freak Off," an event in which they allege Combs used his “power and prestige” to induce female victims into drugged-up, elaborately produced sexual performances with male sex workers. Combs' lawyers said in court papers that newly unearthed evidence refutes that, and that the video, which first aired on CNN in May, was “a minutes-long glimpse into a complex but decade-long consensual relationship” between Combs and Cassie. Slavik, responding to defense claims that the recording was manipulated or taken out of context, said prosecutors don’t have the full version because Combs paid hotel staff $100,000 “to make the original video go away.” “This is a case about violence," Slavik told Subramanian in a final plea to keep Combs locked up. “The defendant has engaged in physical, sexual and emotional abuse of his romantic partners for years. ... He’s hit. He’s kicked. He’s dragged.”LOCKERBIE victims’ families are split over a controversial new drama about the atrocity — amid fears it could undermine their 36-year fight for justice. Oscar-winning star Colin Firth takes the lead role of campaigner Dr Jim Swire, 88, who lost his daughter Flora in the 1988 tragedy. The bereaved dad has long argued that late Libyan spy Abdelbaset al-Megrahi — the only person ever convicted over Britain’s deadliest terror attack — was innocent. His book, A Father’s Search For Justice, is the inspiration for the forthcoming Sky Atlantic drama. Now other victims’ relatives are outraged at the portrayal ahead of a trial in the US next year. Victoria Cummock, 71, whose husband John died aboard Pan Am Flight 103, accused programme makers of trying to “influence uniformed audiences” and “instil doubt in potential jurors”. The American dad of three was among 259 passengers plus 11 in the Dumfriesshire town who perished when the London-New York flight exploded in mid-air on December 21, 1988 . And Victoria, who regularly travels to the UK to visit John’s grave in Lockerbie’s Tundergarth cemetery, described the five-part series as an attempt to “undermine the course of criminal justice”. The widow added: “I feel that the casting of Colin Firth, depicted as the lone, courageous champion of truth and justice, will elevate Swire’s story, filled with unproven conspiracy theories and politically biased interpretations.” Al-Megrahi was jailed for life in 2001 after being convicted of 270 counts of murder at a 72-day trial at a special Scots court convened in The Netherlands. Controversially, Scottish ministers released him back to his homeland eight years later on compassionate grounds after he was diagnosed with terminal cancer. He then survived for another three years. Alleged spy Abu Agila Masud is set to stand trial in Washington DC in May accused of assembling the Lockerbie bomb. The King’s Speech A-lister Firth, 64, was spotted walking past reconstructed plane wreckage while filming Lockerbie: A Search for Truth earlier this year in Bathgate, West Lothian. Victoria revealed the scenes had upset relatives — with the real-life plane’s remains set to be sent to the US to be used in evidence against the alleged bomb maker. Slamming the telly drama, she added: “It discredits the exemplary efforts and integrity of thousands of first responders and law enforcement personnel who combed for evidence for months, in the bitter, wet cold, across 2,200sq km. It was the largest crime scene in UK history.” Dr Swire has maintained that the true bombmaker was a Jordanian “double agent, or possibly even a triple agent”. He has insisted this man was a valuable CIA asset — prompting the US and UK Governments to instead pin the blame on tyrant Muammar Gaddafi and Libyans. But bereaved loved ones are concerned millions of viewers will be swayed by his theories. Bert Ammerman, 77, whose brother Tom, 36, died in the attack, questioned the TV show’s agenda — despite retaining “respect” for Dr Swire’s decades of campaigning. He said: “Jim Swire was the key person that wanted to keep the Lockerbie story going until we found out the truth. “And for this entire period he has been a leader. For that he will always have my respect and gratitude. I disagree that Megrahi was wrongly convicted and that it was not Libya to blame. Jim really went off the beaten path.” Vowing to keep fighting for convictions, Bert, of New Jersey, US, insisted: “It’s not just Megrahi and Gaddafi that were involved — and that alone keeps us going 36 years later. My power to keep going is my brother being blown out of the air at 31,000 feet.” Among the victims when the tragic flight exploded 38 minutes after take-off were 35 students from Syracuse University in New York. Sue Lowenstein, 80, lost her son Alexander, 20 — who had been among the group studying abroad. She accused the forthcoming small-screen portrayal of deliberately courting controversy. The sculptor, of Montague, New York, said: “Controversy always creates an interesting story for TV and most of us haven’t been in agreement with Jim Swire and his beliefs.” Campaign groups told of their horror that the series was allowed to get off the ground after pleading with producers to pull the plug. A spokesman for the US-based Victims of Pan Am 103 said: “We have raised our concerns with the producers of the project. “We feel they are amplifying and highlighting a false narrative about the bombing. “A narrative that the great majority of us who lost loved ones do not align with and have fought very hard against. “They risk dishonouring the memories of those that were lost, the lifetime of work of the families, and worst of all they may put doubt in the public about those that committed this heinous act.” But Swire’s supporters insist the series, set to debut on January 2, will be a force for good. His friend, Reverend John Mosey, 84, lost daughter Helga in the tragedy — and continues to hope the “hidden” truth will emerge. Rev Mosey said: “Somebody in the US government or security departments has something they want to hide from the public and will do anything to stop it from coming out. “It’s frustrating getting nearer the end of our days so people are waiting for us to shuffle off our mortal coil and keep quiet until we do so. “Those who kept secrets ought to be brought to justice.” Dr Swire declined to comment. Last night a Sky spokesman said: “Lockerbie: A Search for Truth is based on Dr Jim Swire and Peter Biddulph’s book, The Lockerbie Bombing: A Father’s Search for Justice. “We understand there are opposing opinions and do not attempt to tell the definitive version of the Lockerbie disaster or present a conclusion. "We do not underestimate the responsibility of telling this story sensitively. We engaged with victims’ families and support groups through- out production and in the lead-up to the series launch.”

Geron Reports Inducement Grants Under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4)Trump asks Supreme Court to delay TikTok ban so he can weigh in after he takes office'Sonic 3' and 'Mufasa' battle for No. 1 at the holiday box office Two family films are dominating the holiday box office, with “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” winning the three-day weekend over “Mufasa” by a blue hair. According to studio estimates Sunday, the Sonic movie earned $38 million, while “Mufasa” brought in $37.1 million from theaters in the U.S. and Canada. The R-rated horror “Nosferatu” placed third with an unexpectedly strong $21.2 million. Thanksgiving release holdovers “Wicked” and “Moana 2” rounded out the top five. Christmas Day had several big film openings, including the Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown,” the Nicole Kidman erotic drama “Babygirl” and the boxing drama “The Fire Inside.” Big Lots reaches deal to keep hundreds of US stores open The discount chain Big Lots has reached a deal that will keep hundreds of its stores open. Big Lots said it will be sold to Gordon Brothers Retail Partners, which specializes in distressed companies. Gordon Brothers will then transfer Big Lots’ stores to other retailers. Variety Wholesalers, which owns more than 400 U.S. discount stores, plans to acquire between 200 and 400 Big Lots stores and operate them under the Big Lots brand. Big Lots filed for bankruptcy protection in September, saying inflation and high interest rates had cut back on consumer demand for its furniture and other products. Charles Dolan, HBO and Cablevision founder, dies at 98 Charles F. Dolan, who founded some of the most prominent U.S. media companies including Home Box Office Inc. and Cablevision Systems Corp., has died at age 98. Newsday reports that a statement issued Saturday by his family says Dolan died of natural causes. Dolan’s legacy in cable broadcasting includes founding HBO in 1972, Cablevision in 1973 and the American Movie Classics television station in 1984. He also launched News 12 in New York City, the first U.S. 24-hour cable channel for local news. Dolan also held controlling stakes in companies that owned Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, the New York Knicks and the New York Rangers. Trump asks Supreme Court to delay TikTok ban so he can weigh in after he takes office President-elect Donald Trump has asked the Supreme Court to pause the potential TikTok ban from going into effect until his administration can pursue a “political resolution” to the issue. Trump's request Friday came as TikTok and the Biden administration filed opposing briefs to the court. Oral arguments are scheduled for Jan. 10 on whether the law, which requires TikTok to divest from its China-based parent company or face a ban, unlawfully restricts speech in violation of the First Amendment. The brief said Trump opposes banning TikTok at this junction and “seeks the ability to resolve the issues at hand through political means once he takes office.” Stock market today: Wall Street slips as the 'Magnificent 7' weighs down the market NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks are closing lower as Wall Street ends a holiday-shortened week on a down note. The S&P 500 fell 1.1% Friday and the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 333 points, or 0.8%. The Nasdaq composite dropped 1.5%. The “Magnificent 7” stocks weighed on the market, led by declines in Nvidia, Tesla and Microsoft. Even with the loss, the S&P 500 had a modest gain for the week and is still headed for its second consecutive annual gain of more than 20%, the first time that has happened since 1997-1998. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.62%. 10 tips from experts to help you change your relationship with money in 2025 NEW YORK (AP) — As the calendar changes to 2025, you might be thinking about how to approach your relationship with money in the new year. Whether you’re saving to move out of your parents’ house or pay off student loan debt, financial resolutions can help you stay motivated. If you’re planning to make financial resolutions for the new year, experts recommend that you start by evaluating the state of your finances in 2024. Then, set specific goals and make sure they’re attainable for your lifestyle. Janet Yellen tells Congress US could hit debt limit in mid-January WASHINGTON (AP) — Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen says her agency will need to start taking “extraordinary measures,” or special accounting maneuvers intended to prevent the nation from hitting the debt ceiling, as early as January 14th, in a letter sent to congressional leaders Friday afternoon. The department has taken such action in the past. But once those measures run out the government risks defaulting on its debt unless lawmakers and the president agree to lift the limit on the U.S. government’s ability to borrow. An online debate over foreign workers in tech shows tensions in Trump's political coalition WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — An online spat between factions of Donald Trump’s supporters over immigration and the tech industry has thrown internal divisions in the president-elect’s political movement into public display. The argument previews fissures and contradictory views his coalition could bring to the White House. The rift laid bare tensions between the newest flank of Trump’s movement — that is, wealthy members of the tech world who want more highly skilled workers in their industry — and people in Trump’s Make America Great Again base who championed his hardline immigration policies. A 9th telecoms firm has been hit by a massive Chinese espionage campaign, the White House says WASHINGTON (AP) — A top White House official says a ninth U.S. telecoms firm has been confirmed to have been hacked as part of a sprawling Chinese espionage campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans. Administration officials said this month that at least eight telecommunications companies, as well as dozens of nations, had been affected by the Chinese hacking blitz known as Salt Typhoon. But Anne Neuberger, a deputy national security adviser, said Friday that a ninth victim had been identified after the administration released guidance to companies about how to hunt for Chinese culprits in their networks. Canadian Cabinet ministers meet with Trump's nominee for commerce secretary in bid to avoid tariffs TORONTO (AP) — Two top Canadian Cabinet ministers have met with President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for commerce secretary at Mar-a-Lago as Canada tries to avoid sweeping tariffs when Trump takes office. New Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc and Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly met with Howard Lutnick, Trump’s nominee for commerce secretary, as well as North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Trump’s pick to lead the Interior Department. The meeting was a follow up to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s meeting with Trump at Mar-a-Lago last month. Trump has threatened to impose sweeping tariffs if Canada does not stem what he calls a flow of migrants and fentanyl into the United States.

The future of mobility is going to be focused on and around the preservation of the environment while keeping in mind the dynamic commuting needs of city dwellers. We’ve seen numerous and prototypes that envision the designs of vehicles a decade from now. The same is true for public transportation needs as new technological innovations will change the dynamics of how we move in and around metro cities. Meet TREO a new kind of sustainable transportation system specifically designed for future rewilding cities, seamlessly integrating with the green urban ecosystems. The proposed concept can be configured both as a personal commuter or a suspended transport module when connected with other TREO vehicles. The idea is to have a single-module vehicle that can transport you to the city center for short-distance travel, and then you can get connected to the other vehicle modules for automated transportation to your destined location. Designer: The aerodynamic single-person module can reach speeds up to 25 km/h and has freedom for multidirectional movement on smooth surfaces. On the rear, this module has a suspension link that can be connected to the lifting mechanism when mode switching is required. In the ground movement mode, the rider gets a semi-automated travel option while in the suspended transportation mode, the steering wheel folds, HUD turns into an entertainment hub, and seats retract back in the circular structure for a laid-back travel. Most of the TREO’s structure is made out of 3D-printed material keeping the weight down and opening the possibility of multimodular movement for adjusting according to user’s needs. The omnidirectional wheels are made out of spherical tires and have individual motors. The vehicle is a combination of organic U shapes contrasted with sharp cutting lines. The interior is kept very open and airy so that the rider has 180-degree vision on all sides to enjoy the ride home. Overall this futuristic ride is targeted towards future cities that have the basic infrastructure sorted and more oriented towards quality of life.'Raghupati Raghav' recital at Atal event stirs political row in Bihar

NASA Accelerates Space Exploration, Earth Science for All in 2024CM Maryam calls Benazir 'metaphor of courage'

Disney’s Quest for Lifelike Robots Takes a Giant Leap Forward Disney’s latest advancement in robotics has captured the attention of tech enthusiasts everywhere. In a recently released video, an incredibly sophisticated humanoid robot demonstrates its dancing abilities by executing complex moves like tapping, spinning, and even moonwalking. The secret behind this impressive display is the innovative Robot Motion Diffusion Model (RobotMDM) developed by Disney Research. This groundbreaking method addresses the challenge of creating lifelike movements in robots, which have traditionally struggled to combine realistic motion with adherence to physical laws. The newly unveiled technology merges kinematic motion generation with a reinforcement-learning tracker that ensures the robot’s actions remain believable and diverse. Disney Research has showcased the RobotMDM’s capabilities through tests on humanoid robots, displaying its robustness and practical applications in dynamic settings. They’ve even provided visual comparisons with other models to prove the effectiveness of this new technology. In recent years, Disney has emerged as a leader in robotic innovation, unveiling creations like free-roaming droids at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the impressive Hulk meet-and-greet technology. Other notable developments include interactive robots such as a skating Judy Hopps at SXSW and the daily performances of a Spider-Man acrobat at Avengers Campus. The introduction of the RobotMDM paves the way for even more immersive experiences at Disney parks, highlighting their commitment to blending technology and storytelling in unique ways. For more updates on Disney’s latest innovations, connect with WDW News Today on social media platforms. Disney’s Robotic Revolution: Bringing Stories to Life with Cutting-Edge Technology Disney’s relentless pursuit of innovation in robotics is setting new standards in the entertainment industry. The company’s latest breakthrough—the Robot Motion Diffusion Model (RobotMDM)—has revolutionized lifelike robot movement, capturing the imaginations of tech enthusiasts globally. How RobotMDM Enhances Robotic Movement The Robot Motion Diffusion Model is a state-of-the-art approach developed by Disney Research to solve the perpetual challenge in robotics: replicating human-like movements that adhere to physical laws. The model ingeniously integrates kinematic motion generation with a reinforcement learning tracker, ensuring that robots can perform a myriad of actions—from simple gestures to complex dance routines like tapping, spinning, and moonwalking—while maintaining an aura of authenticity and fluidity. Applications and Innovations at Disney Parks With the advent of RobotMDM, Disney is set to revolutionize experiences at its theme parks. The technology is already being tested on humanoid robots, demonstrating robust performance in diverse environments. This innovation promises to enhance interactions, making them more engaging and lifelike. From free-roaming droids at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to the interactive Spider-Man acrobatics in the Avengers Campus, Disney’s commitment to robotics is transforming visitor experiences like never before. Pros and Cons of RobotMDM Technology Pros: – Enhanced Realism: Provides robots with more lifelike and diverse movements, enriching guest interactions. – Versatility: Applicable in various settings, from entertainment to customer service. – Innovation Leadership: Reinforces Disney’s position as a pioneer in integrating technology with storytelling. Cons: – Complexity: The sophisticated nature of the technology might lead to higher maintenance requirements. – Adaptation Period: There may be a learning curve for operators to maximize its potential. Future Predictions and Market Implications As Disney continues to refine and deploy the RobotMDM, it is expected to set a benchmark for the entertainment industry, influencing trends toward integrating more advanced robotics into consumer interactions. This innovation may stimulate other sectors to explore similar technologies, potentially leading to collaborative projects or spin-offs that benefit various industries. Trends and Insights The introduction of RobotMDM is indicative of a larger trend within the tech ecosystem: the blending of artificial intelligence with robotics to create personalized and interactive user experiences. Disney’s commitment to sustainability in technology development ensures that these innovations are eco-friendly, potentially inspiring future advancements in eco-conscious robotics. Connecting with Disney To stay updated on Disney’s continual advancements and technological breakthroughs, follow WDW News Today across their social media channels. This ensures you won’t miss out on the fascinating developments as Disney shapes the future of entertainment through technology.Vincerx Pharma Enters into a Binding Term Sheet for a Strategic Merger with Oqory, Inc.2027: No Automatic Tickets For Ekiti APC Lawmakers — Fayemi

NEW YORK (AP) — Sean “Diddy” Combs ' lawyers tried for a third time Friday to persuade a judge to let the hip-hop mogul out of jail while he awaits his sex trafficking trial, but a decision won’t come until next week as prosecutors warned of his "concerted effort" from behind bars to disrupt the case. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian said he'll rule promptly on Combs’ bail request after the defense and prosecution file letters by noon Monday fleshing out some of the arguments they made during at a two-hour hearing in Manhattan federal court. Combs’ lawyers pitched having him await trial under around-the-clock surveillance either at his mansion on an island near Miami Beach or — after the judge scoffed at that location — at an apartment on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Their $50 million bail proposal, secured by his Florida home, essentially amounts to keeping Combs on house arrest instead of in custody at the troubled Brooklyn federal jail where he’s been held for 67 days since his September arrest. Under their plan, Combs' lawyers said he'll be under near-total restrictions on his ability to see or contact anyone but them. But prosecutors argued that no bail conditions can mitigate Combs' “risk of obstruction and dangerousness to others.” Combs has routinely flouted jail rules while locked up at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, prosecutors said, accusing him of attempting to interfere with witnesses and taint the jury pool. “Really, this amounts to the defendant paying his way out of custody,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy Slavik told Subramanian. Defense lawyer Anthony Ricco countered that the prosecution’s portrayal of Combs as "a lawless person who doesn’t follow instructions” or “an out-of-control individual who has to be detained” is inaccurate. Another Combs lawyer, Teny Geragos, added that given the strict release conditions they've proposed, “it would be impossible for him not to follow rules." Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to charges that he coerced and abused women for years with help from a network of associates and employees while silencing victims through blackmail and violence, including kidnapping, arson and physical beatings. His trial is slated to begin May 5. Two other judges previously concluded that the Bad Boy Records founder would be a danger to the community if he is freed, and an appeals court judge last month denied Combs’ immediate release while a three-judge panel of the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals weighs his bail request. Friday's hearing was the second time Combs was in court this week. On Tuesday, a judge blocked prosecutors from using as evidence papers that were seized from his cell during a jail-wide sweep for contraband and weapons. As he entered through a side door, Combs waved to relatives including his mother and several of his children in the courtroom gallery, tapping his hand to his heart and blowing kisses at them. He then hugged his lead attorney, Marc Agnifilo, before sitting at the defense table. Combs was not handcuffed or shackled and wore a beige jail uniform, occasionally pulling a pair of reading glasses from his pocket as he peered at papers in front of him. Prosecutors contend that while incarcerated the “I’ll Be Missing You” singer has orchestrated social media campaigns aimed at influencing potential jurors. They allege that he has also attempted to leak materials he believes would help his case and is contacting potential witnesses via third parties. “Simply put, the defendant cannot be trusted,” Slavik argued. In renewing their push for Combs' release, his lawyers sought to undercut the strength of a potential key piece of evidence: a March 2016 video showing him hitting and kicking his then-girlfriend, R&B singer Cassie , in a Los Angeles hotel hallway. Prosecutors contend the assault happened during a “Freak Off," an event in which they allege Combs used his “power and prestige” to induce female victims into drugged-up, elaborately produced sexual performances with male sex workers. Combs' lawyers said in court papers that newly unearthed evidence refutes that, and that the video, which first aired on CNN in May, was “a minutes-long glimpse into a complex but decade-long consensual relationship” between Combs and Cassie. Slavik, responding to defense claims that the recording was manipulated or taken out of context, said prosecutors don’t have the full version because Combs paid hotel staff $100,000 “to make the original video go away.” “This is a case about violence," Slavik told Subramanian in a final plea to keep Combs locked up. “The defendant has engaged in physical, sexual and emotional abuse of his romantic partners for years. ... He’s hit. He’s kicked. He’s dragged.”James Earl Carter Jr., the 39th president of the United States, died on Sunday, and was remembered by a Habitat for Humanity pioneer. Political observers were also quick to mark the passing of the former world leader. Carter died at 100 years old after receiving hospice care following the death of his wife. Norman Ornstein , an emeritus scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, said, "Jimmy Carter ‘s presidency is extraordinarily underrated." ALSO READ: Poor Trump supporters are about to get a rude awakening — but we shouldn't be celebrating "But this is a good time to tell my favorite personal story. I was an advisor to the Carter Baker commission on election reform. At one of the meetings, President Carter asked if I would have lunch with him. He was gracious and warm. I asked him about River blindness and how he had tackled it, saving literally millions of lives. He explained how he had been in Africa, seen the devastation of so many young people blinded with lives destroyed," Ornstein wrote. "He learned that a simple inexpensive salve could prevent the devastation. He contacted drug companies, got them to donate the medication. He went to the leadership in the countries affected to make sure that the salve would be distributed without corruption and at no charge." Ornstein then added, "There was no braggadocio. Just a matter of fact explanation of how he had used his position to organize a massive commitment to save lives. Only one of the many things he did. He was a towering figure of dignity and grace. A remarkable human being. May his memory be a blessing." Political commentator Seth Abramson wrote, " RIP, Jimmy Carter . Perhaps the best post-presidency ever—he showed us the sort of person a POTUS is supposed to be." Democratic influencer Harry Sisson said Carter "w as a good man who dedicated his life to helping others." "A true public servant. RIP," Sisson added. The Anti-Trump conservatives over at the Lincoln Project said, " We are saddened to learn of the death of President Carter." "President Carter’s enormous legacy extends beyond his four years serving as President, but also includes his post-Presidency work to support human rights and build democratic institutions throughout the world," the group wrote. "We commemorate the former President for his efforts to help emerging nations manage fair elections and adopt democratic traditions. President Carter’s dedication to public service and extending liberty around the world should be a model to every American." Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance also chimed in, saying, " Simply put, President Jimmy Carter was a good man." "He was the epitome of a servant leader, changing the world and setting the highest example of what it meant to honor God, family, and country," she added. "May his legacy of unselfish leadership and work to serve 'the least of these' inspire us all to make the world a better place."UK to tax private schools in £1.5 bn boost to public education