Iran's government on Tuesday said it had lifted a ban on access to WhatsApp and Google Play after more than two years, the official IRNA news agency reported. The report said the country's Supreme Council of Cyber Space made the decision in a meeting led by reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian, who has vowed to remove restrictions on social media. Iran's telecommunication minister Sattar Heshemi in a post on X called the decision a "first step" in removing restrictions and said "the path will continue'' — indicating the possibility of unblocking other services. Many people reached by The Associated Press across the capital, Tehran, and other cities said they had access to the services on computers but not yet on mobile phones. WhatsApp has been the third most popular messaging platform in Iran after Instagram and Telegram. The ban on WhatsApp and Google Play was put in place in 2022 during mass protests against the government over the death of a woman held by the country's morality police for allegedly violating the strictly enforced dress code. The protests calmed in 2023 after a crackdown by police and security forces that led to the death of hundreds of people and the imprisonment of thousands. Iran has blocked access to various social media platforms over the years but many people in the country use proxies and VPNs to access them. (This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)Asante Akyem North MP Ohene Kwame Frimpong Joins NDC Caucus in 9th Parliament, Prioritizes Job Creation
A group photo taken during the recent visit made by Hope Place. KUCHING (Dec 10): Two teenage girls have suffered unspeakable losses since 2015 and are now seeking shelter from their grandmother’s sister, said Hope Place Kuching. Rachel, 15, and Rowena, 12, lost their father in 2015 and their mother in 2017, leaving them orphaned, said the non-governmental organisation (NGO) in a statement yesterday. “Following the demise of their parents, the two sisters had been taken care of by their elderly grandparents. Their sad story continues when their grandmother and grandfather passed away in 2020 and last year, respectively,” said Hope Place. According to the charitable body, Rachel and Rowena are now under the care of their grandmother’s sister Ruba Sandri, 62, who is living in Kampung Tabuan Jaya Tengah with her husband, adult children and grandchildren. “It’s unfathomable that there are young children in this world who go through the loss of not one but both parents in a short time. The sense of love and security that has been snatched away is unthinkable. “Yet, all is not lost as there are those who have the heart and compassion to give these orphan children a home,” said Hope Place following a recent visit to Ruba, who shares her home with the two orphan girls. Hope Place said both Ruba and her husband are not earning any income. Despite not having much on their plates, Hope Place described Ruba as “trying her best to care for the two girls, especially to ensure that they complete their education”. It is fortunate that Rachel and Rowena are presently receiving their late mother’s monthly Social Security Organisation (Sosco) aid of RM500, it added. Hope Place said it is supporting the family with basic food and school supplies for the girls. It welcomes all donations which can be deposited directly into its Maybank account via 511289001160. Individuals can also visit Hope Place’s Facebook page for the S Pay Global QR code to make donations. For more information, call Hope Place on 082-505987 or 013-5672775.THE Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ) has assured the public of an adequate supply of grain-processed products during this festive season. It says it has adequate stocks of essential grain-based commodities to meet demand this festive season unlike in the past. In the past, retailers took advantage of shortages of commodities during the festive season to hike prices, thereby dampening the spirit of merry-making. In a statement, GMAZ national chairman, Dr Tafadzwa Musarara, attributed this year’s achievement to strategic planning and unwavering commitment. “We are proud to report that the local market is adequately stocked with maize meal, rice, flour, salt and other essentials. The surplus supply has stabilised prices, making these commodities accessible to all at both formal and informal retail outlets,” he said. The 2024 agricultural season posed significant challenges due to prolonged drought conditions, which forced the industry to rely heavily on imported grain. Despite these hurdles, Dr Musarara said the sector has ensured consistent supply and remains committed to supporting local agriculture through initiatives such as contract farming and exploring additional source markets to maintain affordability. Dr Musarara also expressed gratitude to the Government for its private-led approach to achieving national food security. “The Government’s policies align with international best practices and have enabled us to adapt effectively to these challenges,” he said. —@SikhulekelaniM1 Sikhulekelani Moyo, KIDSMART, a popular retail outlet in Bulawayo, has been closed since Monday afternoon amid allegations of failing to comply with Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) regulations on tax and duty payments for imported goods. Social media reports suggest the store was operating without a Zimra Tax Clearance Certificate, with claims that its goods [...] Nokuthaba Brita Ncube, RETAIL giant, OK Zimbabwe has expressed concerns that the tax proposals outlined in the 2025 National Budget statement may increase costs and reduce profit margins for certain product lines, particularly alcoholic beverages and deli products. In its trading update for the half-year ending September 30, 2024, the company highlighted that the [...] Mukudzei Chingwere, Harare Bureau Khayah Cement Limited has entered corporate rescue proceedings due to the effects of the crippling illegal economic sanctions that have severely impacted its operations. The company adopted a resolution effective from December 20 to initiate a corporate rescue procedure under the Insolvency Act and Mr Bulisa Mbano of Grant Thornton (Zimbabwe) [...]
The Prime Minister insisted the UK will back Ukraine “for as long as it takes” as he made a speech at the Lord Mayor’s Banquet in London, but for the first time acknowledged the conflict could move towards a negotiated end. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has in recent weeks suggested he is open to a possible ceasefire with Vladimir Putin’s Russia. Kyiv and its European allies meanwhile fear the advent of Donald Trump’s return to the White House could result in American aid being halted. President-elect Trump has said he would prefer to move towards a peace deal, and has claimed he could end the conflict on “day one” of his time in power. As he attempts to strike up a good relationship with the incoming president, Sir Keir revealed he had told Mr Trump the UK “will invest more deeply than ever in this transatlantic bond with our American friends in the years to come”. In his speech at London’s Guildhall, the Prime Minister said there is “no question it is right we support Ukraine”, as the UK’s aid to Kyiv is “deeply in our self-interest”. Allowing Russia to win the war would mean “other autocrats would believe they can follow Putin’s example,” he warned. Sir Keir added: “So we must continue to back Ukraine and do what it takes to support their self-defence for as long as it takes. “To put Ukraine in the strongest possible position for negotiations so they can secure a just and lasting peace on their terms that guarantees their security, independence, and right to choose their own future.” Mr Zelensky told Sky News over the weekend he would be open to speaking with Mr Putin, but branded the Russian president a “terrorist”. He also suggested Ukrainian territory under his control should be taken under the “Nato umbrella” to try to stop the “hot stage” of the war with Russia. In a banquet speech focused on foreign affairs, the Prime Minister said it was “plain wrong” to suggest the UK must choose between its allies, adding: “I reject it utterly. “(Clement) Attlee did not choose between allies. (Winston) Churchill did not choose. “The national interest demands that we work with both.” Sir Keir said the UK and the US were “intertwined” when it came to commerce, technology and security. The Prime Minister added: “That’s why, when President Trump graciously hosted me for dinner in Trump Tower, I told him that we will invest more deeply than ever in this transatlantic bond with our American friends in the years to come.” He also repeated his commitment to “rebuild our ties with Europe” and insisted he was right to try to build closer links with China. “It is remarkable that until I met President Xi last month there had been no face-to-face meeting between British and Chinese leaders for six years,” the Prime Minister said. “We can’t simply look the other way. We need to engage. To co-operate, to compete and to challenge on growth, on security concerns, on climate as well as addressing our differences in a full and frank way on issues like Hong Kong, human rights, and sanctions on our parliamentarians,” he added. The Prime Minister said he wants Britain’s role in the world to be that of “a constant and responsible actor in turbulent times”. He added: “To be the soundest ally and to be determined, always, in everything we do. “Every exchange we have with other nations, every agreement we enter into to deliver for the British people and show, beyond doubt, that Britain is back.” Ahead of Sir Keir’s speech, Lord Mayor Alastair King urged the Prime Minister and his Government to loosen regulations on the City of London to help it maintain its competitive edge. In an echo of Sir Keir’s commitment to drive the UK’s economic growth, the Lord Mayor said: “The idealist will dream of growth, but the pragmatist understands that our most effective machinery to drive growth is here in the City, in the hands of some of the brightest and most committed people that you will find anywhere in the world.”( MENAFN - Daily News Egypt) Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigration, Badr Abdelatty, has met with the ministry's consular division to review progress on improving consular services for Egyptian citizens living abroad. The meeting focused on streamlining procedures and implementing digital solutions. Ambassador Tamim Khallaf, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that Abdelatty emphasized the importance of enhanced communication with Egyptian expatriate communities to address their consular needs promptly and efficiently. He said that a digital transformation was crucial for transparency, increasing service efficiency, and simplifying transactions for Egyptian citizens. Abdelatty stressed that digital consular services were part of a wider plan to enhance the quality of these services. He also highlighted the need for training consular staff in modern technology to ensure high standards. The meeting also addressed ongoing efforts to improve consular services for Egyptians overseas, including the implementation of a comprehensive plan to digitalise these services. This digitalisation aims to develop the necessary infrastructure to facilitate transactions and save time for citizens living abroad. The plan includes establishing interactive online platforms where citizens can access consular services remotely, such as issuing official documents, renewing passports, and submitting service requests electronically. Egyptian Assistant Foreign Minister for Consular Affairs and Egyptian Expatriates, Tamer Kamal El-Meligy, updated Abdelatty on a new passport issuance process for Egyptians abroad. This new process, set to launch at several Egyptian diplomatic missions, will reduce passport processing times to just a few days, down from a previous timeframe of several months. MENAFN24122024000153011029ID1109028094 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.LeBron James made his Christmas debut in 2003. Victor Wembanyama was born 10 days later. That’s right: James has been featured on the NBA’s big day for longer than Wembanyama has been alive. And on Wednesday — when the league celebrates Christmas with games for the 77th time — the league’s oldest player and brightest young star will be big parts of the holiday showcase. It’s another Christmas quintupleheader, with Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs visiting the New York Knicks, Minnesota going to Dallas for a Western Conference finals rematch, Philadelphia heading to Boston to renew a storied rivalry, James and the Los Angeles Lakers taking on Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors, and Denver playing at Phoenix in the nightcap. “Very excited, of course,” Wembanyama said of his first Christmas game opportunity. “First of all, spending Christmas in New York, it’s going to be like the movies, I hope. Get a little snow.” His first Christmas wish came true: Light snow fell in Manhattan on Tuesday morning. James said he’s relishing another chance to share the holiday spotlight with Curry — someone he’s played against on Christmas three previous times. “Any time you get an opportunity to be on the court and compete against one of the greatest to ever play this game, you don’t take it for granted,” James — who turns 40 next week — said of facing his U.S. Olympic teammate. “I don’t know how many more opportunities we’ll get to go against each other.” The Christmas games have been looked at for decades as the time when more fans tend to start watching basketball. The NFL — which is going head-to-head against the NBA on Wednesday — is seeing its regular season winding down, and the five NBA games will all be shown nationally either on ABC or ESPN. The Spurs-Knicks game will also have a special alt-cast starring Mickey Mouse and some of his friends, the first animated presentation of an NBA game. It’ll be shown on ESPN2 and stream on Disney+ and ESPN+. “I wish there were more of our great players who had a chance to play on that stage on Christmas Day,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said. “It’s been an interesting turnaround from certainly my earlier days in the league when we got a lot of complaints about playing on Christmas — and now it comes the other way, which is, ‘Why aren’t we playing on Christmas?’ I wish we could accommodate even more teams.” Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Ex-DePaul guard leads N. Illinois against Chris Holtmann's Blue Demons
Bethlehem marks a second subdued Christmas Eve during the war in Gaza BETHLEHEM, West Bank (AP) — Bethlehem is marking another somber Christmas Eve under the shadow of war in Gaza. Manger Square lacked its usual festive lights and crowds of tourists on Tuesday. Instead, the area outside the Nativity Church was quiet. The church was built atop the spot where Jesus is believed to have been born. The war, the violence in the occupied West Bank it has spurred and the lack of festivities has deeply hurt Bethlehem's economy. The town relies heavily on Christmas tourism. The economy in the West Bank was already reeling because of restrictions placed on laborers preventing them from entering Israel during the war. Pope Francis kicks off a yearlong Jubilee that will test his stamina and Rome's patience VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis has opened the great Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica. The ceremony kicks off the 2025 Holy Year. It's a celebration of the Catholic Church that is expected to draw some 32 million pilgrims to Rome. And it will test the pope’s stamina and the ability of the Eternal City to welcome them. This begins the Christmas Eve Mass. The ceremony inaugurates the once-every-25-year tradition of a Jubilee. Francis has dedicated the 2025 Jubilee to the theme of hope. Trump vows to pursue executions after Biden commutes most of federal death row FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump says he'll “vigorously pursue” capital punishment after President Joe Biden commuted the sentences of most people on federal death row partly to stop Trump from pushing forward their executions. Trump criticized Biden’s decision on Monday to change the sentences of 37 of the 40 condemned people to life in prison without parole. Trump said that he will direct the Department of Justice to pursue the death penalty “as soon as I am inaugurated.” Trump was vague on what specific actions he may take. 21 dead as Mozambique erupts in violence after election court ruling MAPUTO, Mozambique (AP) — Violence that engulfed Mozambique after the country’s highest court confirmed ruling party presidential candidate Daniel Chapo as the winner of disputed Oct. 9 elections has killed at least 21 people, including two police officers. Mozambique Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda told a news conference in Maputo late Tuesday that a wave of violence and looting was sparked by the court’s announcement a day earlier. He said it was led by mostly youthful supporters of losing candidate Venancio Mondlane, who received 24% of the vote, second to Chapo, who got 65%. Spain's monarch pays tribute to the victims of Valencia floods in his Christmas Eve speech MADRID (AP) — Spanish King Felipe VI has used his traditional Christmas Eve speech to remember the victims of the catastrophic Valencia flash floods. He also urged the country to remain calm despite public debates around hot-button issues such as immigration and housing affordability. Felipe acknowledged the frustration of many of the flood victims at the government's handling of the disaster in a pre-recorded speech that usually reviews the year’s most relevant issues. He also addressed immigration and the country’s housing crunch and high rents, which have become leading concerns in the southern European Union country that is the eurozone's fourth-largest economy. The speech was broadcast on Tuesday. Prosecutors find workers in 'slavery like' conditions at Chinese car company site in Brazil RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (AP) — A task force led by Brazilian prosecutors says it has rescued 163 Chinese nationals working in “slavery-like” conditions at a construction site in northeastern Brazil, where Chinese electric vehicle company BYD is building a factory. The Labor Prosecutor’s Office released videos of the dorms where the construction workers were staying, which showed beds with no mattresses and rooms without any place for the workers to store their personal belongings. In a statement issued Monday, the prosecutor’s office said the workers had been hired in China by Jinjian Group, one of the contractors on the site, which is located in Camaçari, a city in the Salvador metropolitan region. Haiti gangs fire on journalists covering a planned hospital reopening, leaving casualties PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Suspected gang members have opened fire on journalists in Haiti’s capital as they were covering the attempted reopening of the country’s largest hospital, wounding or killing an unknown number of people. The country's interim president, Leslie Voltaire, said in an address to the nation that journalists and police were among the victims of the vicious Christmas Eve attack. He did not specify how many casualties there were, or give a breakdown for the dead or wounded. Radio Télé Métronome said earlier on Tuesday that seven journalists and two police officers were wounded in the shooting. Street gangs have taken over an estimated 85% of Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince. Heavy travel day starts with brief grounding of all American Airlines flights WASHINGTON (AP) — American Airlines briefly grounded flights nationwide due to a technical problem just as the Christmas travel season kicked into overdrive and winter weather threatened more potential problems for those planning to fly or drive. Government regulators cleared American flights to get airborne Tuesday about an hour after the Federal Aviation Administration ordered a national ground stop, which prevented planes from taking off. American said in an email that the problem was caused by vendor technology in its flight operating system. Aviation analytics company Cirium said flights were delayed across American’s major hubs, with only 37% leaving on time. Nineteen flights were cancelled. NFL players who use platform to share their faith say it's their duty to spread their love of Jesus ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) — Jake Bates was standing on the turf in his hometown of Houston when asked to reflect on an unlikely journey from learning how to sell bricks to making game-winning kicks for the Detroit Lions. Bates used his platform as an NFL player to spread his love of Jesus. A month later, Bates told The Associated Press it is a duty to share his faith. The NFL is filled with players and coaches who feel the same way, such as Houston's C.J. Stroud, Atlanta's Kirk Cousins, and Lamar Jackson and John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens. Stunning photos show lava erupting from Hawaii's Kilauea volcano HONOLULU (AP) — Lava is erupting from Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano for the second straight day. The eruption has stayed within Kilauea’s summit caldera inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and no homes are threatened. Molten rock began spewing out of the volcano before dawn on Monday when fissures opened in the caldera floor and shot lava high into the air. It then oozed across the caldera floor. Scientists expect activity to fluctuate in coming days. The lava paused Monday afternoon but fountains reemerged Tuesday morning. The eruption has occurred in an area that’s been closed to the public since 2007 due to hazards including crater wall instability and rockfalls.Attorneys want the US Supreme Court to say Mississippi’s felony voting ban is cruel and unusual
Some Democrats are frustrated over Joe Biden reversing course and pardoning HunterEAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — The New York Giants have been losing on the field for months, and the sign of another potential loss might have been on the horizon this past weekend. A small plane circled MetLife Stadium roughly 90 minutes before the New Orleans Saints beat the Giants 14-11 on Sunday, urging co-owner John Mara to overhaul a team that has made the playoffs twice since winning the Super Bowl in February 2012. “Mr. Mara, enough. Please fix this dumpster fire!” read the message on a banner towed by the plane. While Mara declined to comment on the aerial message, its content was clear. Someone — probably a disgruntled fan — was sick of seeing the Giants (2-11) lose week after week. Their skid now is at eight games, one shy of the team record. Having one fan and probably scores or more upset has to be a concern for Mara and co-owner Steve Tisch. No owner wants his fan base unhappy, and it's not just about this season. Seven of the last eight seasons have ended with losing records, including the 2019 season, which featured a franchise record-tying nine straight losses. There have been two other nine-game skids, the first in 1976 and the second in 2003-04. Mara and Tisch need to make changes, but what should they do? The knee-jerk reaction would be to fire coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen, who came in together in 2022 and led New York to the playoffs with a 9-7-1 record. That season began with seven wins in nine games. Since then, the Giants have posted an 11-28-1 record. The late Robert E. Mulcahy, the former head of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority and later the athletic director at Rutgers, once said that the hardest decision he had to make was to keep Greg Schiano as the Scarlet Knights' coach after posting a 12-34 record in his first four seasons. Everyone wanted him fired. Mulcahy felt he had the right guy and held pat. It worked out. Mara and Tisch face a similar decision with the guys they brought in from Buffalo. If they feel Schoen and Daboll will turn around the Giants, they should stick with them. If not, change things. What they can't do is let an emotional fan base make the decision for them. What’s working The new defensive line. Pro Bowler Dexter Lawrence and D.J Davidson went on injured reserve last week and fellow defensive tackle Rakeem Nunez-Roches was out with neck and shoulder injuries. That left backups Elijah Chatman and Jordon Riley, newcomer Corey Durdon, and Elijah Garcia and Casey Rogers — who were signed off the practice squad to the active roster — to handle Alvin Kamara and the Saints. New Orleans was limited to 92 yards rushing. Giants opponents had been averaging almost 146 yards. What needs help The Giants remain the NFL's lowest-scoring team. They have hit the 20-point mark four times in 13 games. They have scored 18 points or fewer nine times and were held to single digits in four games. After taking over the play-calling from Mike Kafka this season, maybe Daboll should give quarterbacks coach Shea Tierney an opportunity to call plays. It couldn't hurt. Stock up Micah McFadden. With fellow inside linebacker Bobby Okereke out with a back issue, McFadden had a team-high 11 tackles, including five for losses. Rookie Darius Muasau, who replaced Okereke, had eight tackles. Stock down The offensive line, which was without left tackle Jermaine Eluemunor for the second straight week and saw left guard Jon Runyan (ankle) and center John Michael Schmitz (neck) leave in the second half. The Saints pounded Drew Lock, recording two sacks and 13 quarterback hits. The Giants rushed for 112 yards, but most of that was Lock scrambling for 59 yards to avoid more hits. Injuries In addition to Runyan and Schmitz, safety Tyler Nubin (ankle) and cornerback Tre Hawkins, who was hurt after making a tackle, left the game. Lock was banged up and needed postgame X-rays and an MRI on Monday. Daboll said Lock will start this weekend if healthy. Key number 9 — The Giants are one loss away from matching their franchise-worst skid. Next steps To end the losing streak and win for the first time in eight games at MetLife Stadium this season, the Giants have to beat Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens (8-5) on Sunday. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
Red Wings Report About Coaching Change False [Correction]
It seems like San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel would like to get the ball more heading into the stretch run of the 2024 season. While the 49ers defeated the Chicago Bears 38-13 in Sunday's NFC matchup, they have still lost three of their last four and are on the outside of the current playoff picture. Samuel took to social media Monday and pushed back at the notion he is struggling with the team, suggesting instead he just needs more opportunities: The South Carolina product finished Sunday's game with two catches for 22 yards and five carries for 13 yards. It was the most carries he has seen since a Week 1 win over the New York Jets, although injuries to running backs Christian McCaffrey and Jordan Mason left the team shorthanded at the position against the Bears. Still, he didn't make the most of those five runs with 2.6 yards per carry, which was more notable since he wasn't much of a factor in the passing game for the fourth straight outing. Here is a look at Samuel's last four games as a pass-catcher: A Nov. 10 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was the last time Samuel looked like his normal self as a receiver with five catches for 62 yards. And he has just one touchdown catch in the entire season. Opposing defenses are surely making it a point to focus additional attention on Samuel with McCaffrey and Brandon Aiyuk sidelined with injuries. That has made life more difficult for the veteran, who is used to impacting games in a variety of ways with his speed and physicality. The 2021 Pro Bowler has three seasons with more than 800 receiving yards, including that 2021 campaign when he posted 1,405. However, he will need to quickly turn things around to reach that mark this year with 553 receiving yards and four games remaining. Perhaps getting more chances will help him do just that, as he has seen more than seven targets just once all season. That came in Week 2 against the Minnesota Vikings when he posted a season-high 110 receiving yards on 10 targets. Don't be surprised if Samuel sees plenty of chances in Thursday's NFC West showdown against the Los Angeles Rams after publicly calling for the ball.NEW YORK, Dec. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via InvestorWire - IBN ("InvestorBrandNetwork”), a pioneer in corporate communications and content distribution, is proud to announce it has been selected as the official media partner for Podfest Expo 2025 , hosted by Cutting Edge Events ("CEE"). The event will take place in-person at the Renaissance Orlando Resort, Jan. 16-19, 2025. Podfest Expo is the premier platform for world-class education, cutting-edge technology insights, and quality content creation tailored for the global podcasting community. Celebrating its 11th consecutive year, the event brings together independent creators, established podcasters, video creators, authors, and other content professionals for a transformative four-day experience of learning, connection, and innovation. As the Media Sponsor, IBN will leverage its extensive corporate communications capabilities to maximize event visibility across digital platforms. IBN's reach spans over 5,000 syndication partners , including Apple News and International Business Times, in addition to its 60+ IBN Brands , collectively engaging over 2 million followers and subscribers. Randy Clark, Director of Global Operations at IBN, shared "We're thrilled to continue our collaboration with Cutting Edge Events and support their efforts to empower the podcasting and creator communities. At IBN, we're committed to driving greater interest and readership by amplifying the reach of their exceptional events.” Chris Krimitsos, Founder of Cutting Edge Events, added "IBN's expertise in digital communications and media amplification has been instrumental in elevating our events. Their strategic approach to content distribution ensures we connect with millions of new readers and expand the impact of the podcasting community.” Since 2015, Cutting Edge Events has been a leader in organizing podcast-focused, video, and other content-related conferences, fostering growth within the ecosystem, and delivering actionable insights to professionals and aspiring creators alike. The four-day Podfest Expo 2025 will feature educational sessions, dynamic panel discussions, and unparalleled networking opportunities, offering attendees the tools and connections to thrive in the evolving podcasting landscape. For more information about the event, visit https://podfestexpo.com/ . About IBN IBN consists of financial brands introduced to the investment public over the course of 18+ years. With IBN, we have amassed a collective audience of millions of social media followers. These distinctive investor brands aim to fulfill the unique needs of a growing base of client-partners. IBN will continue to expand our branded network of highly influential properties, leveraging the knowledge and energy of specialized teams of experts to serve our increasingly diversified list of clients. Through our Dynamic Brand Portfolio (DBP) , IBN provides: (1) access to a network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to reach all target markets, industries and demographics in the most effective manner possible; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets ; (3) Press Release Enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) full-scale distribution to a growing social media audience; (5) a full array of corporate communications solutions ; and (6) total news coverage solutions. For more information, please visit https://www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the InvestorBrandNetwork website applicable to all content provided by IBN, wherever published or re-published: http://IBN.fm/Disclaimer Corporate Communications IBN Los Angeles, California www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com 310.299.1717 Office [email protected]NEW YORK (AP) — The man accused of burning a woman to death inside a New York City subway train used a shirt to fan the flames, a prosecutor said Tuesday at his arraignment on murder charges. Sebastian Zapeta, 33, who federal immigration officials said is a Guatemalan citizen who entered the U.S. illegally, was not required to enter a plea and did not speak at the hearing in Brooklyn criminal court. Zapeta, wearing a white jumpsuit over a weathered black hooded sweatshirt, will remain jailed at the city's Rikers Island complex and is due back in court on Friday. His lawyer did not ask for bail. Zapeta is charged with two counts of murder, accusing him of intentionally killing the woman and killing her while committing arson. He is also charged with one count of arson. The top charge carries a maximum sentence of life in prison without parole. Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez called the attack a “gruesome and senseless act of violence” and said it would be “met with the most serious consequences.” The apparently random attack occurred Sunday morning on an F train that was stopped at the Coney Island station. The victim's identification is still pending. Authorities say Zapeta approached the woman, who may have been sleeping in the train, and set her clothing on fire with a lighter. Zapeta then fanned the flames with a shirt, engulfing her in fire, Assistant District Attorney Ari Rottenberg said in court Tuesday. Zapeta then sat on a bench on the subway platform and watched, Rottenberg said. According to Rottenberg, Zapeta told detectives that he didn’t know what happened but identified himself in images of the attack. Zapeta's lawyer, public defender Andrew Friedman, did not speak to reporters after the arraignment. A message seeking comment was left for him. Video on social media appears to show some people looking on from the platform and at least one police officer walking by while the woman is on fire inside the train. NYPD Transit Chief Joseph Gulotta said Sunday that several officers responded to the fire and one stayed to keep the crime scene “the way it’s supposed to be" while the others went to get fire extinguishers and transit workers. “Officers who were on patrol on an upper level of that station smelled and saw smoke and went to investigate. What they saw was a person standing inside the train car fully engulfed in flames,” Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. They eventually put the fire out, but “unfortunately, it was too late,” Tisch said, and the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. Zapeta was taken into custody Sunday afternoon while riding a train on the same subway line after teenagers recognized him from images circulated by the police. A Brooklyn address for Zapeta released by police matches a shelter that provides housing and substance abuse support. The shelter did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Federal immigration officials said Zapeta was deported in 2018 but later reentered the U.S. illegally. The crime deepened a growing sense of unease among some New Yorkers about the safety of the subway system, amplified by graphic video of the attack that ricocheted across social media. “It creeped me out real bad,” said Deandre Nelson, 22. Others said the attack hasn’t changed their daily routine or how they feel about the subway. “I don’t think it gave me pause," said Collin Burroughs, 24. “I think it mostly just made me sad.” Overall, crime is down in the transit system compared to last year. Major felonies declined 6% between January and November compared to the same time period last year, according to data from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. But murders are up, with nine killings this year through November compared to five during the same period last year. There have also been several high-profile incidents, including one in September where police inadvertently shot two bystanders and a fellow officer when they opened fire on a man holding a knife in front of a train. Earlier this month, a Manhattan jury acquitted former Marine Daniel Penny in the chokehold death last year of an agitated subway rider. The case became a flashpoint in debates over safety, homelessness and mental illness on the system. Policing the subway is difficult, given the vast network of trains moving between 472 stations. Each stop contains multiple entry points and, in many stations, multiple floors and platforms. This story has been corrected to show that the name of Zapeta's lawyer is Andrew Friedman, not Ed Friedman. Associated Press reporter Melissa Goldin contributed to this report.
"Cobra Kai" season 6 Part 3 on Netflix is releasing in February, 2025. Final batch of five episodes of "Cobra Kai" season 6 will premiere on OTT streaming platform. ET Year-end Special Reads Top 10 equity mutual funds of the year. Do you have any? How India flexed its global power muscles in 2024 2024 was the year India became the talk of America "Cobra Kai" season 6 Part 3 final episodes will be released on February 13. Netflix said Thursday that it added 5 million subscribers in the most recent quarter, helping to lift revenue to $9.8 billion during the period, a 15 per cent increase from the same period last year. The company now has 282.7 million subscribers globally, far outpacing its competitors in streaming. Net income in the quarter rose to $2.3 billion. Buoyed by new shows including "The Perfect Couple," and "Nobody Wants This," as well as the existing shows "Emily in Paris" and "Cobra Kai," and films like "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F," and "Rebel Ridge," the company increased viewer engagement since last year at this time, averaging around two hours a day per paid membership. 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Where can we watch "Cobra Kai" season 6 Part 3? A1. "Cobra Kai" season 6 Part 3 can be watched on Netflix. Q2. When will "Cobra Kai" season 6 Part 3 premiere? A2. "Cobra Kai" season 6 Part 3 final episodes will be released on February 13. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )DALLAS — The Dallas Cowboys won’t play in the playoffs for the first time in four seasons. Sitting at 7-8 and out of the race in the NFC, the Cowboys have unequivocally been a disappointment, especially after team owner Jerry Jones called the 2024 campaign an “all-in” season earlier in the year as he made it clear that the goal was Super Bowl or bust. Now, however, despite being a bust, Jones was quick to dole out stocking stuffers of praise to his coaching staff after Dallas rattled off four wins in five games that culminated in a 26-24 win over the NFC South-leading Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 16. Full of holiday cheer following the victory, Cowboys owner, president, and general manager Jones made his weekly visit on the Shan & RJ show on Audacy's 105.3 The Fan Tuesday to discuss Dallas’ win over a probable playoff-bound opponent and just the second win of the year at AT&T Stadium. The main key in Jones’ eye for improved play despite the team’s playoff chances crumbling has been the coaching staff and their ability to coax improvements out of young players who have taken over for an injury-depleted squad. “Really proud of these young players,” said Jones. “They just are growing mentally and physically by leaps and bounds, makes me think we’ve got an outstanding future ahead of us.” Despite the losses of franchise quarterback Dak Prescott, Pro Bowl defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, All-Pro cornerback Trevon Diggs, several starters on the offensive line, and many others to injury, the Cowboys showed fight, especially in the Week 16 win where they were playing for nothing but pride while their opponent was trying to maintain their playoff destiny. After starting the season 3-7, including a five-game losing streak, the Cowboys have won four of their last five games to draw near to the .500 mark at 7-8. With the potential to completely collapse, Dallas has rallied and that appears to be something Jones attributes to McCarthy and his coaching staff. “I can’t tell you how proud I am of the way the coaching staff, led by Mike McCarthy, and the leadership on this team,” Jones said, after McCarthy went from lame duck status in the last year of his contract to on the hot seat all season. Now Jones is potentially laying the foundation for a potential extension for the former Super Bowl-winning coach. Another part of the recent success has been the steady play of backup-turned-starter Rush, who threw for 292 yards and a touchdown against Tampa Bay and now has nine passing scores to just one interception over his last five games after he took over for the injured Prescott mid-season. To that end, Jones was asked if he has had any second thoughts about the protracted contract talks that ended with a record-breaking extension for Prescott now that Rush is producing results at the helm. "No. No. Not at all," Jones assured, as Prescott will almost certainly be back under center for the Cowboys next season. More curious, perhaps, is the fact that third-stringer Trey Lance hasn’t gotten more of a look, especially with Dallas out of contention. “The very best chance that we have on the next play or series, that’s what I want every play to be,” Jones responded when asked specifically about giving Lance an opportunity in the final two weeks. “So the people who go out there are the ones that I want who give us the best chance.” With Christmas upon us, Jones was also asked about the league’s unusual schedule this season which will see four AFC squads play three games in eleven days as part of the league’s mandate to have games on Christmas Day, which falls on an unwieldy Wednesday this year. “Christmas Day is Christmas Day and it doesn’t wait around for what day it’s on,” Jones, ever a major influence on NFL broadcasting decisions chimed in. “We want to be there on Christmas Day. I would think the future is whatever day it’s on, we’re going to be there on Christmas.” The Cowboys won’t be among the teams playing on Christmas Day, as they next suit up against the archrival Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday at noon from Lincoln Financial Field where they will once again try to play the role of spoiler against a playoff-bound team in Week 17. Do you think the Cowboys should bring back their coaching staff for 2025? Share your thoughts with us on X (formerly Twitter) @WFAASports .
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