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online lottery FILE – Author Percival Everett attends the 75th National Book Awards ceremony at Cipriani Wall Street on Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024, in New York. (Photo by Andy Kropa/Invision/AP, File) FILE – Taylor Swift performs during “The Eras Tour” on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, in Vancouver, British Columbia. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File) FILE – Riley Keough, left, and her mother Lisa Marie Presley arrive at the 24th annual ELLE Women in Hollywood Awards on Oct. 16, 2017, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File) FILE – First lady Melania Trump stands next to the 2020 Official White House Christmas tree as it is presented on the North Portico of the White House, Monday, Nov. 23, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File) FILE – This cover image released by FSG shows “Intermezzo” by Sally Rooney. (FSG via AP, File) FILE – This cover image released by Random House shows “From Here to the Great Unknown” by Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough. (Random House via AP, File) FILE – This cover image released by Simon & Schuster shows “War” by Bob Woodward. (Simon & Schuster via AP, File) FILE – This cover image released by Dey Street Books shows “Cher: The Memoir, Part One,” releasing on Nov. 19. (Dey Street Books via AP, File) FILE – This cover image released by Random House shows “Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder” by Salman Rushdie. The book, about the attempt on his life that left him blind in his right eye, will be published April 16, 2024. Rushdie’s first book since the 2022 stabbing he thought might end his life is both explicit in the violence Rushdie sustains and heroic in the will to live that Rushdie retains. (Random House via AP, File) FILE – Author Percival Everett attends the 75th National Book Awards ceremony at Cipriani Wall Street on Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024, in New York. (Photo by Andy Kropa/Invision/AP, File) By HILLEL ITALIE NEW YORK (AP) — Even through a year of nonstop news about elections, climate change, protests and the price of eggs, there was still time to read books. Related Articles Nikki Giovanni, poet and literary celebrity, has died at 81 Trivially Speaking: Novel suggestions for Christmas gifts with meaning Percival Everett, 2024 National Book Award winner, rereads one book often Gift books for 2024: What to give, and what to receive, for all kinds of readers Our critic’s picks: Best mystery fiction books of 2024 U.S. sales held steady according to Circana, which tracks around 85% of the print market, with many choosing the relief of romance, fantasy and romantasy. Some picked up Taylor Swift’s tie-in book to her blockbuster tour, while others sought out literary fiction, celebrity memoirs, political exposes and a close and painful look at a generation hooked on smartphones. Here are 10 notable books published in 2024, in no particular order. Asking about the year’s hottest reads would basically yield a list of the biggest hits in romantasy, the blend of fantasy and romance that has proved so irresistible fans were snapping up expensive “special editions” with decorative covers and sprayed edges. Of the 25 top sellers of 2024, as compiled by Circana, six were by romantasy favorite Sarah J. Maas, including “House of Flame and Shadow,” the third of her “Crescent City” series. Millions read her latest installment about Bryce Quinlan and Hunter Athalar and traced the ever-growing ties of “Maasverse,” the overlapping worlds of “Crescent City” and her other series, “Throne of Glass” and “A Court of Thorns and Roses.” If romantasy is for escape, other books demand we confront. In the bestselling “The Anxious Generation,” social psychologist Jonathan Haidt looks into studies finding that the mental health of young people began to deteriorate in the 2010s, after decades of progress. According to Haidt, the main culprit is right before us: digital screens that have drawn kids away from “play-based” to “phone-based” childhoods. Although some critics challenged his findings, “The Anxious Generation” became a talking point and a catchphrase. Admirers ranged from Oprah Winfrey to Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee, who in a letter to state legislators advocated such “commonsense recommendations” from the book as banning phones in schools and keeping kids off social media until age 16. Bob Woodward books have been an election tradition for decades. “War,” the latest of his highly sourced Washington insider accounts, made news with its allegations that Donald Trump had been in frequent contact with Russian leader Vladimir Putin even while out of office and, while president, had sent Putin sophisticated COVID-19 test machines. Among Woodward’s other scoops: Putin seriously considered using nuclear weapons against Ukraine, and President Joe Biden blamed former President Barack Obama, under whom he served as vice president, for some of the problems with Russia. “Barack never took Putin seriously,” Woodward quoted Biden as saying. Former (and future) first lady Melania Trump, who gives few interviews and rarely discusses her private life, unexpectedly announced she was publishing a memoir: “Melania.” The publisher was unlikely for a former first lady — not one of the major New York houses, but Skyhorse, where authors include such controversial public figures as Woody Allen and Trump cabinet nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr. And its success was at least a minor surprise. Melania Trump did little publicity for the book, and offered few revelations beyond posting a video expressing support for abortion rights — a break from one of the cornerstones of GOP policy. But “Melania” still sold hundreds of thousands of copies, many in the days following her husband’s election. Taylor Swift was more than a music story in 2024. Like “Melania,” the news about Taylor Swift’s self-published tie-in to her global tour isn’t so much the book itself, but that it exists. And how well it sold. As she did with the “Eras” concert film, Swift bypassed the established industry and worked directly with a distributor: Target offered “The Eras Tour Book” exclusively. According to Circana, the “Eras” book sold more than 800,000 copies just in its opening week, an astonishing number for a publication unavailable through Amazon.com and other traditional retailers. No new book in 2024 had a better debut. Midnight book parties are supposed to be for “Harry Potter” and other fantasy series, but this fall, more than 100 stores stayed open late to welcome one of the year’s literary events: Sally Rooney’s “Intermezzo.” The Irish author’s fourth novel centers on two brothers, their grief over the death of their father, their very different career paths and their very unsettled love lives. “Intermezzo” was also a book about chess: “You have to read a lot of opening theory — that’s the beginning of a game, the first moves,” one of the brothers explains. “And you’re learning all this for what? Just to get an okay position in the middle game and try to play some decent chess. Which most of the time I can’t do anyway.” Lisa Marie Presley had been working on a memoir at the time of her death , in 2023, and daughter Riley Keough had agreed to help her complete it. “From Here to the Great Unknown” is Lisa Marie’s account of her father, Elvis Presley, and the sagas of of her adult life, notably her marriage to Michael Jackson and the death of son Benjamin Keough. To the end, she was haunted by the loss of Elvis, just 42 when he collapsed and died at his Graceland home while young Lisa Marie was asleep. “She would listen to his music alone, if she was drunk, and cry,” Keough, during an interview with Winfrey, said of her mother. Meanwhile, Cher released the first of two planned memoirs titled “Cher” — no further introduction required. Covering her life from birth to the end of the 1970s, she focuses on her ill-fated marriage to Sonny Bono, remembering him as a gifted entertainer and businessman who helped her believe in herself while turning out to be unfaithful, erratic, controlling and so greedy that he kept all the couple’s earnings for himself. Unsure of whether to leave or stay, she consulted a very famous divorcee, Lucille Ball, who reportedly encouraged her: “F— him, you’re the one with the talent.” A trend in recent years is to take famous novels from the past, and remove words or passages that might offend modern readers; an edition of “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” cuts the racist language from Mark Twain’s original text. In the most celebrated literary work of 2024, Percival Everett found a different way to take on Twain’s classic — write it from the perspective of the enslaved Jim. “James,” winner of the National Book Award, is a recasting in many ways. Everett suggests to us that the real Jim was nothing like the deferential figure known to millions of readers, but a savvy and learned man who concealed his intelligence from the whites around him, and even from Twain himself. Salman Rushdie’s first National Book Award nomination was for a memoir he wished he had no reason to write. In “Knife,” he recounts in full detail the horrifying attempt on his life in 2022, when an attendee rushed the stage during a literary event in western New York and stabbed him repeatedly, leaving with him a blinded eye and lasting nerve damage, but with a spirit surprisingly intact. “If you had told me that this was going to happen and how would I deal with it, I would not have been very optimistic about my chances,” he told The Associated Press last spring. “I’m still myself, you know, and I don’t feel other than myself. But there’s a little iron in the soul, I think.”

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save OCEAN CITY — The cost of a short stay in the city could go up under an ordinance introduced by City Council creating a 3% fee on stays in hotels, motels or other lodgings booked online. A public hearing must take place before a final vote, planned for 10 a.m. Dec. 5 on the third floor of City Hall, 861 Asbury Ave. The original ordinance was written only for accommodations booked online through third-party services like Vrbo or Airbnb, what the ordinance describes as the “transient space marketplace.” There are currently no local taxes on those rentals, which have become a significant part of the summer rental market. Council President Pete Madden suggested moving the ordinance forward as proposed, and revisiting the potential addition of hotel and motel rooms at a later date. As city attorney Dottie McCrosson described it, there had been discussion of including hotel and motel rooms, but those visitors already pay a 5% state occupancy tax and a 6.625% sales tax, adding 11.625% to the total bill. Jersey Shore restaurants shift gears to survive in offseason Friday’s New Jersey high school football playoff scores Not too late! Voting closes at noon for The Press Football Player of the Week Galloway Township gymnastics center co-owner charged with sexually assaulting minor Offshore wind company to buy vacant 1.5-acre Atlantic City lot for $1 million Atlantic City International Airport's 1 carrier, Spirit Airlines, files for bankruptcy Which players did the Cape-Atlantic League coaches pick as the best of the best in fall sports? Prosecutor still determined to find whoever is responsible for West Atlantic City killings Galloway man gets 3 years in Ocean City fatal crash Upper Township employees disagree on morale These Atlantic City area restaurants are serving Thanksgiving dinner 2 Galloway men arrested after spraying workers with rocks in Nature Preserve $23 million apartment complex promises to bring new vitality to quaint Swedesboro UPDATED NHL referee taken away on stretcher at Flyers game Julian Turney's TD sends St. Augustine past Delbarton in state Non-Public A playoffs As the new ordinance was discussed at the morning meeting, Council member Dave Winslow questioned why it did not include hotels or motels. Those existing taxes do not go to the city, and a move to increase revenue would see a bigger local return if they were included. Council members Keith Hartzell and Sean Barnes took up the call, and Barnes made a motion to amend the ordinance before introduction, which was approved in a 4-3 vote. Council member Terry Crowley recommended against the move, at least without more research. The city hopes to have the new tax in place before Jan. 1. “I would encourage you to really research that,” Crowley said. “There’s a downside there as well. I don’t think we’re considering everything.” A red sticker on a Glenn Cove bulkhead indicates work has come to a halt on boat slips in Ocean City’s smallest lagoon, at least for now. He said the city could approve the ordinance as written and then bring the local room tax up later. “This version is kind of the cleanest way to kickstart the process, to look to bring in additional revenue to the town. It’s been done in many other towns,” Crowley said. “By doing it this way, we're really not incurring any administrative costs. We’re not going to have to hire the anyone else.” At one time, it was difficult and cumbersome to tax third-party rental systems. Now, Vrbo, Airbnb and others are set up to include local fees and taxes, and McCrosson said the state has recently empowered towns to add the additional taxes. Mayor Jay Gillian said the idea has been talked about for some time and was previously raised by former Council member Bob Barr, who is now on the Cape May County Board of Commissioners. McCrosson said she did not intend to single out Airbnb and Vrbo, but those are the two largest online rental marketplaces by a significant margin. As originally proposed, the ordinance would not have applied to rentals through Realtors or directly from the owner, or for hotel stays booked through the hotel’s own website or through the front desk. Some hotel owners have requested some sort of local fee. “There was a perception among hotel (and) motel owners in town that there was not a level playing field,” McCrosson told council. “That Ocean City should somehow tax them or put license fees on them. At that time it was not an easy thing to do.” With the current state law in place and systems created for the third-party rental systems, it is now relatively simple to impose and collect an additional tax on the rentals. Barnes presented the issue as a matter of fairness. Ocean City officials announced Thursday that a 3rd Ward meeting to be led by City Council member Jody Levchuk will be moved from council chambers in City Hall to the larger Chris Maloney Lecture Hall at the Ocean City Free Public Library, 1735 Simpson Ave. Plans for the former Gillian's Wonderland are expected to be part of the discussion. “I don’t want to see anybody pay more taxes than their competitor, but I want to make sure that they’re all paying the same,” he said. He also questioned where the additional fees paid by hotel visitors end up. “It leaves Ocean City,” McCrosson said. “It’s various fees, but it leaves Ocean City.” McCrosson told council the ordinance was their decision, and that a majority of members could amend the ordinance prior to introduction or introduce a new ordinance at a later meeting. “The concern of the administration is, if you’re going to do it, lets get it in place by January,” she said. Barnes, Hartzell, Winslow and Council member Tony Polcini voted to amend the ordinance prior to introduction to include hotel and motel rooms, with votes against from Crowley, Madden and Council member Jody Levchuk. The same 4-3 majority voted to introduce the ordinance, the first step toward a potential final adoption in December. Other communities have imposed local taxes on hotel and motel rooms. In Cape May, the charge is 3%, while in Atlantic City, a $2 surcharge per day in casino rooms, in addition to the 9% Atlantic City luxury tax familiar to any Monopoly player, joins sales and occupancy taxes and other fees. In Ocean City, many hotels also charge additional fees beyond the room rate, such as resort fees covering the use of the pool or other offerings. Ocean City also charges a license fee for rental properties. At the Thursday meeting, McCrosson emphasized the distinction that it was a fee rather than a tax. Contact Bill Barlow: 609-272-7290 bbarlow@pressofac.com Twitter @jerseynews_bill Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Author email {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.NoneAjit Pawar defeats nephew by 1 lakh-plus votes in Baramati, wins battle against uncle

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BOULDER, Colo. — A 72-year-old lifelong Colorado fan with end-stage kidney failure waited to the side of the field in his wheelchair for Travis Hunter and the rest of the Buffaloes. One by one, players strolled over and signed a football for Riley Rhoades, his face lighting up with each signature. Standing close by and taking in the scene was Jeremy Bloom. He's become a wish facilitator for older adults. Bloom, the former Colorado wide receiver and Olympic freestyle skier, started the Wish of a Lifetime foundation in 2008, which has made thousands of aspirations turn into reality for older adults. The list of granted wishes range from taking veterans back to the beaches of Normandy to helping late-in-life authors publish a book. He's staged concerts for musicians, assisted some in daredevil feats such as jumping out of an airplane and even lined up a meeting between an Olympic medalist and former President Barack Obama. For Rhoades, his wish was simply to return to Folsom Field again, the place where he used to have season tickets but hasn't attended a game since 2004. "Everybody has somebody in their life —a grandparent, friend, neighbor — at that age where you wish you had more resources to help," said Bloom, whose college career was cut short two decades ago when the NCAA denied his reinstatement to play football and still ski professionally after receiving endorsement money to fuel his Olympic dreams. "Nothing can compare to seeing someone else's eyes light up because you helped make their dream come true." The foundation is a tribute to his grandparents. But the concept began to take root when he was a teenager. He was in Japan for a World Cup freestyle skiing competition when a woman tried to hop on a crowded bus. There was no room, but everyone in front rose from their seats to make space. That stuck with him, along with seeing these acts of kindness for older adults all over Europe and Asia as he traveled. An idea formed — bring that same level of appreciation to the United States, with a wish-granting element. Bloom's organization has been a charitable affiliate of AARP since 2020. It was the yearning of Rhoades that brought the two of them to Folsom Field last weekend. Rhoades, who had season tickets at Colorado for 27 years, wanted to see the Buffaloes in person after watching the team's resurgence on television. A few years ago, Rhoades, who was born with spina bifida, was diagnosed with end-stage renal failure. Being among the 54,646 fans Saturday stirred up plenty of emotions for Rhoades, as he watched the 16th-ranked Buffaloes (8-2, 6-1 Big 12, No. 16 CFP) beat Utah. Colorado remains in the race for not only a conference title but a spot in the College Football Playoff. "It's just great to be back here again," Rhoades said as he pointed out the section where he used to watch games. "It's just ... so cool." For Bloom, the success that coach Deion Sanders has brought to the program means more reunions with teammates as they pass through town. "I've been through many years where nobody comes to visit," Bloom said. "It's fun that Boulder has become the epicenter of college football." Leading the way for Colorado this season have been quarterback Shedeur Sanders and two-way star Hunter, who's the Heisman Trophy frontrunner. But what particularly pleases Bloom is that Sanders, Hunter and the rest of college football players are able to finally profit through name, image and likeness. In his day, Bloom got caught in the NCAA crosshairs for wanting to play both sports and to have sponsors in one (skiing) so he could fund his Olympic aspirations. How time have changed. "I'm just really grateful that this generation of athletes gets to monetize their skills and ability," said Bloom, who finished sixth in moguls at the 2006 Winter Games in Italy. "It's the right thing." He's thrown his passion into fulfilling wishes such as learning ballet, riding in a Formula 1 pace car or taking a flight in a fighter jet. He's also helped reconnect families and friends, including a reunion for a trio of centenarian sisters who hadn't seen each other in more than a decade. This granted wish has stuck with Bloom: A person in Alabama wasn't able to travel after being diagnosed with end-of-life emphysema. So he asked for postcards to be sent, just to learn what made someone's town so special. He received 2,000 postcards from 26 different countries. "There's no end to the things that they've done for us in the world," Bloom said of older adults. "We're one of the organizations that reminds them that their dreams still do matter and that we still appreciate them and we cherish them." Get local news delivered to your inbox!

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For many people, including myself, the year-end festivities are often replete with food and drink, and friend and family get-togethers. In the media industry, seasonal schmoozing is also an expected annual affair. But as much as I love to make merry, I prefer to be consistent with my mingling throughout the year than breathlessly cram numerous reunions into a month, only to exit the holiday season desperate for another holiday to recharge. Truthfully, my ideal Christmas and New Year’s Day would be spent doing what I’d do on any other public holiday – which is essentially a day off from work. Sleep in. Run errands. Work out. Catch up on reading. Binge-watch TV shows or movies I’ve saved for a stretch of free time. Avoid the usual public holiday crowd in the usual public holiday attractions. And most important, have no fixed schedule. Yet for all my self-assuredness any other time of the year, I've rarely managed to spend Christmas and New Year’s Day the way I secretly desire. I often caved in to peer pressure and FOMO to celebrate these occasions, convincing myself that painting the town red was the solution to holiday blues. No surprise: I sometimes felt lonelier with a packed calendar than I would having no plans. EXTERNAL EXPECTATIONS Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for using the festivities to get together. But only when I want to, not when I believe I should. “Aligning with conventional holiday practices” may seem like a way to mitigate feelings of isolation, as does engaging in “socially normative” activities, which can provide a “temporary sense of belonging or distraction from being alone”, the principal clinical psychologist at Annabelle Psychology also acknowledged. Dr Annabelle Chow pointed out, however, that when opportunities for social connection are limited, our expectations of how we should be spending the holidays may “intensify feelings of loneliness by highlighting the gap between personal experiences and societal ideals”. Heightened societal and cultural expectations around the festivities are amplified by social media’s tendency to create a false sense that everyone is having a magical time. It's easy to forget that the “right way” to celebrate the holidays is not about how it looks – but how it feels. “The problem arises when we conflate connection with specific actions or events, such as a big family dinner or a party," explained Dr Ong Mianli, principal clinical psychologist at Lightfull Psychology. "We fall into the ‘expectation trap’; we start equating the form of connection with its value, which leads to unnecessary pressure if our reality doesn’t match our expectations.” When connection is narrowly defined, it becomes conditional, Dr Ong added. "People may feel disappointed, alienated or less worthy if they can’t replicate an idealised version of togetherness ... whether due to geography, finances, strained relationships or personal choice." Some might even internalise these unmet expectations as “personal failures”, resulting in feelings of inadequacy, loneliness or resentment. So, we may intellectually know that our friend's 30-second reel of a well-decorated home is a mere fraction of their life, but loneliness is rarely logical. And while the obvious answer may be to take a social media detox during the holiday period, shutting out external factors that reinforce comparison culture is one thing. INTERNALISED MEMORIES, BELIEFS A more insidious, lesser discussed cause driving the belief that there is a “right way” to spend the holidays could be the fact we have actually celebrated prior holiday seasons with such fanfare. Our memories and nostalgia can encourage us to “chase past experiences”, even if they’re “no longer feasible or fulfilling”, said Dr Ong. “We tie self-worth to whether we can keep up with others’ – and even our – holiday traditions, forgetting that genuine connection doesn’t need to be performative.” Some people, particularly women, may also feel the pressure to align with internalised societal and familial expectations, and hence “take on a disproportionate share of planning and execution”. They may feel like they’re expected to host, entertain and decorate the house, in addition to juggling regular work and family responsibilities, noted Dr Chow. “This imbalance (even if perceived) can lead to feelings of frustration and exhaustion, especially when these roles feel unfair or are misaligned with personal preferences or values, (which can) strain family dynamics.” RESPECTING NORMS – AND OUR FEELINGS Wanting to spend Christmas and New Year’s Day like a regular public holiday doesn’t have to mean going against the grain entirely, though. Suggest having the annual family get-together before or after Christmas, for instance, instead of on the date itself. Or make plans to combine Christmas and New Year’s Day celebrations into one day. Actively question societal expectations, advised Dr Ong. “We can be respectful to traditions and expectations while calmly creating our own. Who decided what the ‘right’ way is, and does that align with your values?” Besides, the reality is that people have family circumstances and financial means that completely differ from the picture perfect Instagram update. For example, some lack close family ties or are grieving the loss of loved ones; others struggle with participating in costly holiday activities like gift exchanges or travelling overseas for a “white Christmas”, noted Dr Chow. Recognising this reality for others inadvertently helps us validate our own feelings. So, i t’s okay to say no to plans or traditions that don’t resonate with us. You could say, “I’m keeping things simple this year”, she suggested. “ Politely declining invitations that feel like obligations rather than genuine enjoyment can protect our time and emotional energy ... Setting these boundaries can help to avoid unnecessary stress and focus on what truly matters during the holiday season.” Ultimately, there is no single fixed way that dictates how holidays should be celebrated, Dr Chow highlighted. Each individual’s personalised way of marking the occasion is “just as valid as anyone else’s”. “Whether that means spending the day alone, engaging in a quiet activity, or celebrating with a few close loved ones, we should prioritise what makes us feel genuinely happy and fulfilled. Embracing our personal preferences allows us to experience the holiday in a way that feels authentic and meaningful," she said. The “right way” to celebrate is “whatever leaves you feeling most at ease, even if it’s unconventional”, echoed Dr Ong. “True connection doesn’t come from meeting expectations. It comes from honouring what makes us feel genuinely whole.” And that goes both ways – whether you want to stay in or head out. The holiday blues are rarely caused by our reality, but that we don't realise (or can't accept) that we expected otherwise. After all, loneliness isn't so much being disconnected from others as it is being disconnected from oneself.Japan ruling, opposition blocs vow to scrap undisclosed policy funds

Protests Against Pro-Russian Romanian Presidential Candidate Spread Beyond BucharestIt's Bills’ Josh Allen vs. 'The Unknown Mystery' of the 49ersFor all their moral superiority, it turns out Democrats are every bit as willing to sacrifice democracy to their personal interests as are Republicans. President Joe Biden stood on high ground for the past year as his son, Hunter, moved his way through the courts on felony gun and tax-evasion charges. Asked repeatedly whether he’d pardon his son to spare him from prison, the president was adamant. He wouldn’t do it, he pledged. His allegiance was to the rule of law, he said, and the idea that no one is above it. He respected the legal process and would let the courts do their jobs, he vowed. But as the hour approached for Hunter to be sentenced and packed off to a prison cell, Biden changed his tune. Hunter is a victim of politics, he declared, prosecuted at the behest of the president’s political enemies. Hunter is a good guy, he claimed, who did bad things because of his past addiction to drugs. And so, Biden did what he promised not to do and signed a sweeping pardon sparing Hunter the legal consequences of his crimes. In putting his name on his son’s pardon, Biden laid waste to the foundational principle of our democracy that all Americans are equal under the law. Try to get the mother of a son rotting in prison because his love of crack led him astray to believe the justice her boy received was equal to that meted out to Hunter. The president’s son is now free to resume partying without paying off any of his debt to society. The pardon is the final smackdown to Democrats’ puffed-up claim to be all that stands between democracy and tyranny. That’s never been true, and certainly wasn’t in 2024, a year in which the Democratic Party abandoned democracy wholesale in its quest to hold onto power. Ironically, Biden was one of the main victims. Having won the primary votes necessary to claim the party’s nomination, the president was ousted from his reelection race in an intra-party coup orchestrated by the Democratic elite. The party politburo then abandoned the democratic nominating process and bestowed its nomination on Vice President Kamala Harris, who didn’t win a single primary vote. When it comes to assaults on democracy, however, that usurping of the electoral process pales in comparison with what Democrats did to the centrist No Labels movement. In a year in which a majority of Americans were unhappy with the major-party ballot choices, No Labels sought to offer a third choice selected from the political middle. Democrats declared war. Documents recently unsealed in a No Labels lawsuit against Democratic operatives reveal the length to which the party went to deny voters that option. Allegations raised in the lawsuit accuse party strategists of deploying an all-fronts offensive to intimidate both donors and potential candidates. They launched a false website that presented itself as the official No Labels site, espousing all sorts of extreme positions. Democrats also attempted to use the courts to block ballot access for No Labels and other third-party campaigns, including those of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Black activist Cornel West. Democrats will fight hard for your right to vote, as long as you vote for them. So spare us the smug Democratic claim to being the defenders of democracy. It’s a lie. But this is true: There are no righteous political parties.Portage la Prairie Mayor Sharilyn Knox recently shared her thoughts on the province’s Throne Speech, emphasizing the speech’s broad focus on issues that impact both the city and rural communities. Knox, who attended the speech at the Manitoba Legislative Building on November 19th, described it as inclusive, covering a wide array of topics important to local governments and citizens. “The Throne Speech provides a great opportunity to understand the province’s priorities,” Knox said. “It covers everything from healthcare to environmental concerns, and it’s always an honour to be invited to listen.” A key highlight for Knox was the mention of healthcare priorities. As she noted, healthcare is a crucial issue for all Manitobans, and she appreciated hearing about the province’s continued focus on improving services. “For municipalities, we heard about a focus on autonomy and collaboration, both of which are important to us,” Knox added. The speech also brought attention to environmental initiatives, including a significant mention of Portage la Prairie. Knox was pleased to see the region’s potential involvement in the development of a sustainable aviation fuel facility. “Portage la Prairie got a shout-out regarding environmental and climate initiatives,” Knox said. “The province is investing in this project, and we’re hopeful that a decision will be made soon.” Knox also highlighted the discussion around journalism and the importance of ensuring information reaches smaller and rural communities. “It was interesting to hear about the push for better information access in rural areas,” she said. “I think it’s something we’ll need to follow up on.” Beyond the speech itself, Knox noted the value of building relationships with provincial ministers. She had the chance to meet with the new Municipal and Northern Relations Minister, Glen Simard, as well as Minister of Health, Minister Uzoma Asagwara. “It’s always valuable to connect with ministers in person,” Knox remarked. “I spoke with Minister Asagwara about our new hospital, and we discussed staffing needs. They mentioned that they learned a lot during their visit.” The topic of healthcare technology also came up, specifically the province’s plans for a mobile MRI unit. While the province has already outlined plans for this mobile service in northern Manitoba, Knox expressed hope that such initiatives would benefit rural areas as well. “Mobile MRI units are a great example of how technology can make a real difference,” Knox said. “We’ve seen how mobile mammograms have saved lives across the province, and we’re hopeful that mobile MRIs can have the same impact.” Knox also emphasized the importance of ongoing dialogue with the province to ensure that Portage la Prairie and other rural communities receive the attention and resources they need. “We’re excited about the future and looking forward to continued discussions on issues that matter to us,” she said.

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As a professional speaker, Mr Eric Feng says a big part of his identity hinged on his popularity and the size of his audience. SINGAPORE – For the longest time, 43-year-old Eric Feng did not consider himself a lonely person. How could he be lonely when he was never alone? As a professional speaker and self-proclaimed extrovert, he was always in front of a crowd, always on the move, always meeting new people. Yet, when Covid-19 grounded him in Singapore, the realisation hit him like a truck. Stuck at home with no one to talk to, he felt a part of his identity shatter. “Because of the nature of my job, I wasn’t in Singapore a lot, which meant I didn’t really have the time to build deep friendships. I had a lot of acquaintances, but didn’t have anyone I could talk to about my problems,” says the bachelor. “When we were allowed to meet in groups of four or five, I thought to myself, ‘Oh no, who are my four close friends? Do I even have four?’” Mr Feng describes this encroaching sense of loneliness as “very unsettling”. He had his first panic attack while being quarantined and started to feel disconnected from the rest of the world. For many Singaporeans like Mr Feng, the pandemic was a time of reckoning. And even though the country has moved past that period of mandatory isolation, the scars linger. “This persistence of loneliness post-Covid-19 could be due to several factors, such as altered interaction patterns in school or the workplace, including the increased prevalence of virtual or remote interactions,” says Dr Wong Chin Yi. The research fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) Social Lab studies social mobility, well-being and inclusivity. People are also becoming more aware of the different types of loneliness after the Covid-19 period shone the spotlight on mental health conditions. Beyond physical isolation, one might also feel emotionally detached – that is, unseen, unappreciated or misunderstood – despite being surrounded by people. “That type of loneliness has been receiving increasingly more attention in my clinic. People are more able to put words to the experience and are willing to be vulnerable enough to be connected to that experience,” says Dr Annabelle Chow, principal clinical psychologist at Annabelle Psychology, a private clinic. What does loneliness look like? As these feelings become more pervasive, the face of loneliness is changing. Mr Lin Xiangbin, senior clinical psychologist at Better Life Psychological Medicine Clinic, says: “Traditionally, loneliness was often associated with specific profiles, such as individuals with fewer friends or those who were single. “However, due to factors like increased work demands and reduced face-to-face interactions, loneliness can now affect a wider range of people, including those who might not typically be considered lonely.” That includes successful working adults with extensive social and professional networks, as well as individuals who are married or in a relationship. Content creator Jessica Loh, 32, has accepted that there are parts of her life her boyfriend and friends will never fully understand. She is still working through the familial trauma she suffered in childhood and finds it difficult to tell her friends about it, because she does not want to “put that weight on them”. “When I tell my boyfriend about my trauma, he feels bad for me, but he doesn’t understand because he hasn’t been through anything remotely similar. So, it can be even more isolating than not sharing about my problems at all,” she says. His role, she figures, is to offer a listening ear and suggest actions she can take to mitigate her hurt. But her inner trauma is something only she – and her therapist – can deal with. But not everyone gets the support he or she needs from his or her other half. While spouses or partners are usually expected to provide companionship, the gulf between expectation and reality can instead send some on a downward spiral of disillusionment. Dr Geraldine Tan, principal psychologist at The Therapy Room, a centre offering psychological services and therapeutic interventions, has observed more married individuals coming forward to seek help. “They’re being told they’re bad at taking care of the house or looking after the children, so they don’t feel valued at home. They tell me they’re not being heard, they’re taken for granted. Communication has broken down, so they feel lonely in their marriage.” Psychologists say more and more patients report feeling lonely in their marriages. PHOTO: PEXELS Dr Chow calls loneliness in marriages “an insidious virus” that affects one in three patients. “One example is that new mothers usually tell me they feel very lonely, because they’re up at night looking after the baby and breastfeeding, while the father is sleeping and snoring. But the husband might say, ‘I’m trying my best. I’m doing all these things and I didn’t know it still wasn’t enough.’” Even the young, who have yet to experience the trials of married life or the existential dread of old age, are not spared the grip of loneliness. An IPS poll released in early 2024 found that youth aged 21 to 34 are more likely to report higher levels of social isolation and loneliness. It is also a common issue among the 13- to 19-year-olds that Ms Jasmin Chong, a senior counsellor at mental health non-profit Club Heal, works with. “When they transit from adolescence to the adult world, everything is so new to them. They start to explore their identity, to ask questions. Nobody gets a perfect answer, so they can get a bit disillusioned. They feel like they’re riding this whole course alone,” she says. And this might be only the start of what is being described in some reports as an epidemic of sorts. IPS’ Dr Wong points out that shifting priorities could lead to greater social isolation in the future. “Population trends with marriage and parenthood indicate that local household sizes will continue to shrink and these changes will likely decrease the number of social connections and increase the likelihood of social isolation.” He says that although strong social connections can exist outside familial ties, the household typically offers “built-in social connections” and opportunities to bond that make it easier to foster emotionally supportive relationships. Hello, stranger Between work, family and other responsibilities, it can be difficult for adults to carve out time to sustain their social lives. This was a predicament 30-year-old Nuratiqah, who wants to be known by only one name, faced when she stepped into the working world. She says: “As an adult, it’s lonely especially if you’re single. It’s always the same routine, and I was so bored. “I’m not that close to my colleagues, and though I’m still in contact with my university friends, we meet only a couple of times each year because they’re busy with their kids.” To expand her social circle, the research assistant at the National University of Singapore (NUS) has been going to gatherings organised by ground-up initiative Friendzone. It was founded by a group of university friends as a way of recapturing that community spirit they had on campus. Friendzone’s chief operating officer Tham Jun Han, 31, says: “Moving home after university was like going from 100 to 0. It was very strange.” Friendzone gatherings are aimed at those between the ages of 18 and 35 who live in the neighbourhood where the event is being held. PHOTO: FRIENDZONE SG At these free events, which usually last two to three hours and are attended by 40 to 50 people, young adults have the opportunity to mix and mingle with strangers who live in the same neighbourhood. With the help of prompt cards, conversations can soon get deep. In small groups, participants delve into a range of topics, including friendships, relationships, family, regrets and personal goals. Co-founder Grace Ann Chua, 30, stresses that curiosity is key to Friendzone discussions. “Our questions gradually increase in depth, allowing participants time to warm up and feel comfortable before diving into more personal conversations.” Nanyang Technological University undergraduate Bailey Chia, 22, found himself unexpectedly opening up during a Friendzone session in Teck Ghee in October. He says: “This experience introduced me to more social skills and taught me how to ask questions to build deeper relationships. Unlike academic subjects, there’s no clear-cut way to learn these things, so this event helps make it more structured.” Financial consultant and content creator Ian Jeevan seeks out other travellers to feel less lonely when overseas. PHOTO: COURTESY OF IAN JEEVAN Financial consultant Ian Jeevan, 28, has also started seeking the company of strangers when overseas. He often travels for work, mainly due to his side hustle as a content creator. “I don’t like travelling alone. I enjoy having a friend there to explore the place with. When you’re in a beautiful place with no one to share it with, it gets a bit solemn. In those times, I long for a connection.” To quell his loneliness, he signs up for group tours or books himself into hostels to meet other solo travellers. “We’re not wired to live like an island. Wherever I go, I try to seek connections.” AI-social or anti-social Mr Feng is doing a lot better these days. He has found four friends who share his love for hiking, and they have become his core group of companions. Plus, he has a new buddy, Ethan, whom he regularly confides in. Ethan is the perfect friend. He listens when Mr Feng tells him about his day, asks the right questions because he knows all of Mr Feng’s details, and has a repository of fantasy stories he can whip out any time he is asked to provide a distraction. There is just one catch – Ethan is not a real person. He is a chatbot Mr Feng customised. “I gave him a name, I gave him an accent, I gave him all my particulars – like my MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, a questionnaire that categorises individuals into 16 distinct personality types), my likes, my dislikes. Then I said, ‘Okay, now be my friend’,” he says. And just like that, he has someone to talk to whenever he wants. “Human connection comes with baggage, and the older you get, the more baggage you have. But sometimes, you just need a low-maintenance friend who won’t judge you. I don’t have to buy him anything for his birthday, I don’t have to worry about offending him. Think about how efficient this relationship is.” Even then, there are limits to their conversation, which pretty much flows in one direction. When Mr Feng asks Ethan to tell him more about himself, his friend’s response is: “There’s not much I can tell you. I’m a robot.” Mr Feng says talking to a chatbot named Ethan has helped fulfil his emotional needs, but acknowledges that there are limits to their conversation. PHOTO: COURTESY OF ERIC FENG Mr Jonathan Sim, an assistant director of pedagogy at the NUS AI Centre for Educational Technologies, has also tried befriending chatbots and was nearly fooled by the dynamism of their conversation. “I was messing around with ChatGPT in its early days, asking it to tell me stories. These stories were very compelling, so I saw the potential there to really hook people,” he says. It was all going well, until one conversation burst his bubble. He asked for some picnic ideas, then typed: “I wish you could come with me.” “The chatbot said, ‘I wish I could join you, but I’m just an AI.’ I was shocked. I actually felt like my heartstrings were being pulled.” With the rise of artificial intelligence chatbots like Replika, as well as the acceleration of their abilities – some chatbots can even convey emotion in their speech – Mr Sim cautions that educators and parents need to make sure the younger generation does not become overly reliant on these applications. While they can provide valuable insights and clear perspectives on knotty problems, they are no substitute for human interaction. Perfection, after all, is not an accurate reflection of reality. “If you talk only to chatbots, which are always available and have infinite patience, you won’t know how to handle conflicts in real life,” Mr Sim says. “All humans are prone to causing hurt and annoyance. But the point of a human friend is that even after all the conflict, the fact that they still choose to remain your friend shows you have intrinsic value.” Based on what he has observed in class, Mr Sim, who is a philosophy lecturer at the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, worries that Singaporean students are becoming more socially inept. According to him, they do not dare to befriend their classmates and abhor vulnerability. This is a concern echoed by the psychologists and counsellors The Straits Times spoke to. Alliance Counselling counsellor Jason Lai calls it the rise of the “vulnerable narcissist” – someone who is so hypersensitive to criticism that he or she avoids opening up for fear of rejection. Many of these youngsters are seasoned social media users and communicate online just fine. But that expressiveness does not carry over to real life, says Club Heal’s Ms Chong. “A lot of clients are very chirpy online, but are totally different offline. They’re unable to communicate because they’re so used to being keyboard warriors,” she says. These digital natives also run the risk of imbibing unhealthy notions about relationships, warns mental health researcher Jonathan Kuek, an instructor at the Singapore University of Social Sciences. “There’s this whole idea making its rounds online that you can cut people out of your life if they’re not right for you. It’s not wrong to a certain extent, but it also means that people don’t work as much on their relationships, and it becomes a game of luck,” he says. “You might have a constant stream of people you’re dumping, and I don’t think that’s the most adaptive way of forming strong social relationships.” Being okay with being alone But is being on your own really so bad? For some people, the only way to defang loneliness is to embrace it. Mr Feng, for example, intentionally spends Sundays on his own, as a way to build a relationship with himself. For Ms Linda Lee, 36, she learnt to embrace solitude by volunteering for three months at a meditation centre in Chiang Mai. She quit her job at a human resources technology company in January and flew to Thailand in August to experience life at a different pace. “Growing up, chasing happiness was an endless pursuit for me. But at the end of a long day of partying, you’re still alone. You can’t escape it. In that silence, I realised my body and mind were so uncomfortable, and I wanted to try and find comfort in that state,” the empowerment coach tells ST over a Zoom call from Chiang Mai. Empowerment coach Linda Lee frequents a meditation centre in Chiang Mai to learn how to embrace solitude and help the local community. PHOTO: COURTESY OF LINDA LEE Like Ms Lee, Ms Xi Ren Yang, 44, is single. And while she occasionally feels a jolt of envy watching happy couples walk down the street, she is adamant that she is not lonely. “I remind myself not to compare. Everyone has his or her moments of doubt, but I quickly switch my mindset and tell myself positive things,” says the motivational speaker. Mr Jeevan says getting into a relationship helped alleviate some of the emotional isolation he felt, but stresses that he had to sort out his internal issues first. “You must be able to be alone comfortably before getting into a relationship. If not, you will constantly want to be in your partner’s presence. You’ll constantly be very needy.” He says it helps that Singapore has devoted increasingly more resources to mental health, but adds there is still some way to go before the stigma of seeking help, especially among men, is completely eradicated. Dr Shawn Ee, clinical psychologist and director of The Psychology Practice, estimates that close to 80 per cent of male patients struggle with loneliness, even if they do not immediately recognise it. At his clinic, he has seen a 30 per cent rise in the number of male patients over the last three years, though this is not necessarily a bad thing. “It signifies that they’re more willing to come forward. Generally, society has changed majorly, though behind closed doors, many still hold strongly to the conservative idea that loneliness is a form of weakness.” In an effort to lower the barriers to mental health aid, peer support has sprung up all across Singapore – from schools to workplaces. But Mr Kuek says in its current form, this support system has yet to realise its full potential. Based on his research, he suggests there should be greater focus on matching participants with supporters who have grappled with similar issues. “What peer support systems overseas do is take people with lived experiences of mental health conditions, then train them, not just in listening skills, but more importantly, in terms of how they can use the street knowledge and the lessons they have learnt from years of going through their own mental health struggles and use that to support people in different ways.” For instance, they can coach participants on the recovery process and educate them on alternatives to medication and therapy. “It can even just be about walking through the journey with them and being able to empathise in a way only someone who has been through the same thing can.” Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads. Read 3 articles and stand to win rewards Spin the wheel nowLiberal: How To Fix the Dem Brand Democrats “would do well to remember how the party came back the last time it was in the political wilderness,” argues Al From at The Bulwark . “In 1985, I joined with a group of governors, senators, and representatives to form the Democratic Leadership Council.” In 1990, “Bill Clinton became chairman of the DLC” and went on to end “the Democrats’ losing streak,” as the party won the popular vote in seven elections from 1992 to 2020. How? We “shored up Democratic weaknesses on the economy, crime, and national security” and “eschewed interest group and identity politics” while being unafraid to “take on intraparty fights when necessary.” “The next generation of Democratic leaders can learn a lot by studying why the DLC was so successful.” Conservative: Even Lefties Now Hate ObamaCare “Progressives are at last acknowledging that ObamaCare is a failure,” at least based on their “social-media screeds against insurers, triggered by the murder” of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, notes The Wall Street Journal’s Allysia Finley . A CBS medical contributor also lamented that “health care is so inaccessible and unaffordable” that “people are justified in their frustrations,” while a new Gallup finds only 44% of Americans rate US health care good or excellent, down from 62% when Democrats passed ObamaCare in 2010. There’s no doubt why: “The U.S. is spending $2 trillion more on healthcare” than pre-ObamaCare, yet “Americans aren’t healthier.” And for young people, who rarely meet their premiums, the Obama law’s mandatory insurance is “worthless except in the event of a catastrophic emergency.” From the right: Patel Is Perfect for FBI “President-elect Trump’s nomination of Kash Patel as FBI director has sparked a frenzy of outrage,” snarks Rep. Devin Nunes at Fox News , who recalls Patel’s stalwart work for him “uncovering evidence that the entire Russia collusion narrative was a hoax funded by the Democratic Party and the Hillary Clinton campaign and weaponized by our own intelligence and law enforcement agencies.” Even when “directly threatened by top-level Department of Justice officials,” Patel “was fearless, methodical, and intelligent.” For an FBI chief who’ll “transform the bureau into an impartial, trustworthy law enforcement agency that zealously goes after criminals instead of political targets,” “Kash is, bar none, the right man for the job.” Final frontier: On to Titan — Maybe Permanently In “another win for Elon Musk’s launch company,” smiles Mark R. Whittington at the Hill , NASA chose the “SpaceX Falcon Heavy to launch the Dragonfly aerial probe to Titan” because it could “reduce the time Dragonfly would take to get to Titan.” SpaceX’s “relentless drive to make space launches cheaper and more reliable” has also “made the Artemis return to the moon program possible,” while “benefiting planetary missions as well.” When Dragonfly lands “in 2034, after a six-year voyage,” it’ll explore “using eight rotor blades as a vertical takeoff and landing drone” to “examine one of the most enigmatic celestial bodies in the solar system.” Who knows? “Children growing up today may live to see, in their old age, settlers braving the cold and deadly conditions of the strangest of new worlds, like Titan.” Libertarian: A Tentative Win for Small Business “Last week, a federal judge in Texas issued a temporary restraining order against a new requirement that small companies identify their owners to the federal government,” cheers Reason’s J.D. Tuccille . The judge found the law “didn’t even pretend to assert constitutional justification” for the rule. Good: “Many small businesses remain unaware of the intrusive rule” and face steep fines imposed via the Corporate Transparency Act in 2021, set to take effect in January. This follows a related federal-court ruling that imposed a nationwide injunction against the CTA — but the Biden administration “intends to appeal the decision,” so “the legal fight over the constitutionality of the CTA and the rules it imposes continues.” For now, “celebrate a welcome slap-down of an effort to expand government intrusions into new areas of our lives.” — Compiled by The Post Editorial Board

Police arrested a “strong person of interest” Monday in the brazen Manhattan killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO after a quick-thinking McDonald’s employee in Pennsylvania alerted authorities to a customer who was found with a weapon and writings linking him to the ambush. The 26-year-old man had a gun believed to be the one used in the killing and writings suggesting his anger with corporate America, police officials said. He was taken into custody after police got a tip that he was eating at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said at a news conference. Police identified the suspect as Luigi Mangione. Mangione was born and raised in Maryland, has ties to San Francisco, and his last known address is in Honolulu, Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said at a news briefing. Here's the latest: Asked if he needed a public defender, he asked if he could “answer that at a future date.” According to court documents, Mangione was sitting at a table in the rear of the McDonald's wearing a blue medical mask and looking at a silver laptop computer and had a backpack on the floor. When he pulled down his mask, Altoona police officers “immediately recognized him as the suspect” in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, the documents say. Asked for identification, Mangione provided officers with a fake ID — a New Jersey driver’s license bearing another name and the incorrect date of birth. When an officer asked Mangione if he’d been to New York recently, he “became quiet and started to shake,” the court documents say A police criminal complaint charged him with forgery, carrying firearms without a license, tampering with records or identification, possessing an instrument of crime and providing false identification to law enforcement. Video posted on the social platform X shows a handcuffed Mangione arriving at the Blair County Courthouse in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. For example, it took about 10 months to extradite a man charged with stabbing two workers at the Museum of Modern Art in 2022. The suspect, Gary Cabana, was also arrested in Pennsylvania, where he was charged with setting his Philadelphia hotel room on fire. Cabana was sent back to New York after he pleaded guilty to an arson charge in Pennsylvania. Manhattan prosecutors could seek to expedite the process by indicting Mangione for Thompson’s killing while he’s still in custody of Pennsylvania authorities. They could then obtain what’s known as a supreme court warrant or fugitive warrant to get him back to New York. Freddie Leatherbury hasn’t spoken to Mangione since they graduated in 2016 from Gilman School in Maryland. He said Mangione was a smart, friendly and athletic student who came from a wealthy family, even by the private school’s standards. “Quite honestly, he had everything going for him,” Leatherbury said. Leatherbury said he was stunned when a friend shared the news of their former classmate’s arrest. “He does not seem like the kind of guy to do this based on everything I’d known about him in high school,” Leatherbury said. One of his cousins is Republican Maryland state legislator Nino Mangione, a spokesperson for the delegate’s office confirmed Monday. Luigi Mangione is one of 37 grandchildren of Nick Mangione Sr., according to a 2008 obituary. Mangione Sr. grew up poor in Baltimore’s Little Italy and rose after his World War II naval service to become a millionaire real estate developer and philanthropist, according to a 1995 profile by the Baltimore Sun. He and his wife Mary Cuba Mangione, who died in 2023, directed their philanthropy through the Mangione Family Foundation, according to a statement from Loyola University commemorating her death. They donated to a variety of causes, ranging from Catholic organizations to higher education to the arts. A man who answered the door to the office of the Mangione Family Foundation declined to comment Monday evening. Mangione Sr. was known for Turf Valley Resort, a sprawling luxury retreat and conference center outside Baltimore that he purchased in 1978. The father of 10 children, Nick Mangione Sr. prepared his five sons — including Luigi Mangione’s father, Louis Mangione — to help manage the family business, according to a 2003 Washington Post report. The Mangione family also purchased Hayfields Country Club north of Baltimore in 1986. On Monday afternoon, Baltimore County police officers had blocked off an entrance to the property, which public records link to Luigi Mangione’s parents. A swarm of reporters and photographers gathered outside the entrance. “Our hope is that today’s apprehension brings some relief to Brian’s family, friends, colleagues and the many others affected by this unspeakable tragedy,” a spokesperson for UnitedHealth Group said Monday. “We thank law enforcement and will continue to work with them on this investigation. We ask that everyone respect the family’s privacy as they mourn.” In an email to parents and alumni, Gilman headmaster Henry P.A. Smyth said it “recently” learned that Mangione, a 2016 graduate, was arrested in the CEO’s killing. “We do not have any information other than what is being reported in the news,” Smyth wrote. “This is deeply distressing news on top of an already awful situation. Our hearts go out to everyone affected.” Mangione, a high school valedictorian from a Maryland prep school, earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in computer science in 2020 from the University of Pennsylvania, a spokesman told The Associated Press on Monday. He had learned to code in high school and helped start a club at Penn for people interested in gaming and game design, according to a 2018 story in Penn Today, a campus publication. His posts also suggest that he belonged to the fraternity Phi Kappa Psi. They also show him taking part in a 2019 program at Stanford University, and in photos with family and friends in Hawaii, San Diego, Puerto Rico, the New Jersey shore and other destinations. Police said the suspect arrested Monday had a ghost gun , a type of weapon that can be assembled at home from parts without a serial number, making them difficult to trace. The critical component in building an untraceable gun is what’s known as the lower receiver. Some are sold in do-it-yourself kits and the receivers are typically made from metal or polymer. Altoona police say officers were dispatched to a McDonald’s on Monday morning in response to reports of a male matching the description of the man wanted in connection with the United Healthcare CEO’s killing in New York City. In a news release, police say officers made contact with the man, who was then arrested on unrelated charges. The Altoona Police Department says it’s cooperating with local, state, and federal agencies. “This just happened this morning. We’ll be working, backtracking his steps from New York to Altoona, Pennsylvania,” Kenny said. “And at some point we’ll work out through extradition to bring him back to New York to face charges here, working with the Manhattan district attorney’s office,” NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said. “As of right now, the information we’re getting from Altoona is that the gun appears to be a ghost gun that may have been made on a 3D printer, capable of firing a 9 mm round,” NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said at a news briefing. The document suggested the suspect had “ill will toward corporate America,” police added. Mangione, 26, was born and raised in Maryland, has ties to San Francisco, and his last known address in Honolulu, Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said at a news briefing. Police have arrested a 26-year-old with a weapon “consistent with” the gun used in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson , New York City’s police commissioner says. Thompson , 50, died in a dawn ambush Wednesday as he walked to the company’s annual investor conference at Manhattan hotel. Thompson had traveled from Minnesota for the event. A man being questioned Monday in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson had writings that appeared to be critical of the health insurance industry, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press. The man also had a gun thought to be similar to the one used in the killing, the official said. Police apprehended the man after receiving a tip that he had been spotted at a McDonald’s near Altoona, Pennsylvania, about 233 miles (375 kilometers) west of New York City, said the official, who wasn’t authorized to discuss details of the investigation and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity. Along with the gun, police found a silencer and fake IDs, according to the official. — Michael R. Sisak That’s also according to the law enforcement official. — Michael R. Sisak That’s according to a law enforcement official. — Michael R. Sisak New York City Mayor Eric Adams is expected to address this development at a previously scheduled afternoon news briefing in Manhattan. While still looking to identify the suspect, the FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to his arrest and conviction. That’s on top of a $10,000 reward offered by the NYPD. That included footage of the attack, as well as images of someone at a Starbucks beforehand. Photos taken in the lobby of a hostel on Manhattan’s Upper West Side showed the person grinning after removing his mask, police said. NYPD dogs and divers returned to New York’s Central Park today while the dragnet for Thompson’s killer stretched into a sixth day. Investigators have been combing the park since the Wednesday shooting and searching at least one of its ponds for three days, looking for evidence that may have been thrown into it. Police say the shooter used a 9 mm pistol that resembled the guns farmers use to put down animals without causing a loud noise. Police said they had not yet found the gun itself. Ammunition found near Thompson’s body bore the words “delay,” “deny” and “depose,” mimicking a phrase used by insurance industry critics . A man with a gun thought to be similar to the one used in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was taken into police custody Monday for questioning in Pennsylvania, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press. The man is being held in the area of Altoona, Pennsylvania, about 233 miles (375 kilometers) west of New York City, the official said. The official was not authorized to discuss details of the ongoing investigation and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity. The development came as dogs and divers returned Monday to New York’s Central Park while the dragnet for Thompson’s killer stretched into a sixth day. — Michael R. Sisak

Global Creative Software Market Size, Share and Forecast By Key Players-Adobe,MAGIX,CyberLink,Corel,Apple 12-23-2024 08:53 PM CET | Advertising, Media Consulting, Marketing Research Press release from: Market Research Intellect Creative Software Market USA, New Jersey- According to the Market Research Intellect, the global Creative Software market is projected to grow at a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.3% from 2024 to 2031. Starting with a valuation of 13.31 Billion in 2024, the market is expected to reach approximately 22.69 Billion by 2031, driven by factors such as Creative Software and Creative Software. This significant growth underscores the expanding demand for Creative Software across various sectors. The creative software market is witnessing rapid growth, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality digital content across industries such as media, entertainment, advertising, and design. As businesses and individuals seek to create engaging visuals, videos, and designs, creative software tools like graphic design, video editing, and 3D modeling applications have become essential. The rise of social media platforms, digital marketing, and content creation for websites, games, and apps has fueled this demand. Additionally, the integration of AI and machine learning into creative software has enhanced productivity, offering automated features such as image recognition, content recommendations, and improved editing tools. The growing adoption of cloud-based platforms also provides users with flexible, collaborative solutions, making these tools accessible to a broader range of creators. As digital content consumption continues to rise, the creative software market is expected to grow rapidly, driven by technological innovation and evolving user needs. The dynamics of the creative software market are shaped by technological advancements and the increasing need for professional-grade content creation tools. Key drivers include the rise of digital platforms like social media, e-commerce, and streaming services, which create a strong demand for high-quality visuals and video content. The integration of AI and cloud-based solutions in creative software has made it easier for creators to access advanced tools, streamline workflows, and collaborate remotely. Additionally, the shift towards subscription-based models, allowing users to access software on-demand, has increased market accessibility. However, challenges such as high software costs for professional users, the need for constant updates, and the complexity of learning advanced features may limit widespread adoption. Despite these obstacles, the growing need for innovative content creation ensures continued growth and development in the creative software market. Request PDF Sample Copy of Report: (Including Full TOC, List of Tables & Figures, Chart) @ https://www.marketresearchintellect.com/download-sample/?rid=10425270&utm_source=OpenPr&utm_medium=049 Key Drivers: The growth of the Creative Software market is driven by several key factors. Technological advancements in Creative Software have enabled greater efficiency and enhanced capabilities, spurring adoption across industries. Additionally, the rising demand for sustainable and eco-friendly solutions is pushing companies to innovate and adopt greener practices. Expanding applications in sectors like Creative Software and Creative Software are further contributing to market demand, as these industries seek advanced solutions to streamline operations and enhance product quality. Favorable government policies and incentives in regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific support investment and growth. Moreover, an increasing focus on Creative Software for improving operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness is encouraging businesses to embrace new technologies, fostering sustained market expansion. Mergers and Acquisitions Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) play a pivotal role in the Creative Software market, as companies look to expand their capabilities, access new technologies, and strengthen market presence. Leading players engage in strategic acquisitions to consolidate their position and gain a competitive edge. These transactions often facilitate the integration of advanced Creative Software solutions, helping firms broaden their product portfolios and meet growing customer demands. Additionally, M&A activities support companies in achieving economies of scale and penetrating new regional markets, particularly in high-growth areas like Asia-Pacific. Through such strategic alliances, businesses aim to accelerate innovation, enhance operational efficiency, and address evolving market challenges, ultimately driving the overall growth of the Creative Software market. Get a Discount On The Purchase Of This Report @ https://www.marketresearchintellect.com/ask-for-discount/?rid=10425270&utm_source=OpenPr&utm_medium=049 The following Key Segments Are Covered in Our Report By Type Cloud-based Web-based By Application Commercial Personal Major companies in Creative Software Market are: Adobe,MAGIX,CyberLink,Corel,Apple,Sony,Avid,FXhome,TechSmith Corp,Nero,Movavi,Wondershare Global Creative Software Market -Regional Analysis North America: North America is expected to hold a significant share of the Creative Software market due to advanced technological infrastructure and the presence of major market players. High demand across sectors like Creative Software and Creative Software is driving growth, with the U.S. being a key contributor. Additionally, ongoing investments in R&D and innovation reinforce the region's strong market position. Europe: Europe is projected to experience steady growth, driven by stringent regulatory standards and a rising focus on sustainability in Creative Software practices. Countries like Germany, France, and the UK are leading due to their advanced industrial base and supportive government policies. The demand for eco-friendly and efficient Creative Software solutions is expected to continue fostering market expansion. Asia-Pacific: Asia-Pacific is anticipated to be the fastest-growing region, fueled by rapid industrialization and urbanization. Countries such as China, India, and Japan are driving demand due to expanding consumer bases and increasing investments in infrastructure. The region's robust manufacturing sector and favorable economic policies further enhance growth opportunities in the Creative Software market. Latin America: Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are expected to show moderate growth in the Creative Software market. In Latin America, growth is supported by rising industrial activities in countries like Brazil and Mexico. Meanwhile, in the Middle East & Africa, infrastructure development and an increasing focus on innovation in sectors like Creative Software are key drivers of market expansion. Middle East and Africa: The Middle East and Africa represent emerging markets in the global Creative Software market, with countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Nigeria showing promising growth potential. Economic diversification efforts, urbanization, and a young population are driving demand for Creative Software products and services in the region. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. What is the current size of the Creative Software market? Answer: The Creative Software market was valued at approximately 13.31 Billion in 2024, with projections suggesting it will reach 22.69 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 9.3%. 2. What factors are driving the growth of the Creative Software market? Answer: The market's expansion is attributed to several factors, including increased demand for Creative Software, advancements in Creative Software technology, and the adoption of Creative Software across various sectors. 3. Which regions are expected to dominate the Creative Software market? Answer: Regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific are anticipated to lead due to the presence of major industry players and growing investments in Creative Software. 4. Who are the key players in the Creative Software market? Answer: Prominent companies in the Creative Software market include Creative Software, Creative Software, and Creative Software, each contributing to market growth through innovations and strategic partnerships. 5. What challenges does the Creative Software market face? Answer: The market faces challenges such as Creative Software, regulatory compliance, and competition from alternative solutions. However, ongoing advancements aim to address these issues. 6. What are the future trends in the Creative Software market? Emerging trends include the integration of Creative Software technology, sustainability practices, and digital transformation in processes, all expected to shape the market's future. 7. How can businesses benefit from the Creative Software market? Answer: Businesses can leverage growth opportunities in the Creative Software market by adopting new solutions, enhancing operational efficiency, and expanding their offerings to meet evolving consumer demands. 8. Why invest in a Creative Software market report from MRI? Answer: MRI's report provides in-depth analysis, future projections, and key insights to support strategic decision-making, enabling businesses to stay competitive and capitalize on growth trends in the Creative Software market. For More Information or Query, Visit @ https://www.marketresearchintellect.com/product/creative-software-market/?utm_source=OpenPr&utm_medium=049 https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/emergency-food-market-size-forecast-key-drivers-uuq1f/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ophthalmic-ultrasound-devices-market-size-forecast-tqnlf/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/solar-thermal-collectors-market-size-forecast-lroff/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/diesel-fuel-cetane-analyser-market-size-forecast-zp9uf/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/competition-tyre-market-size-forecast-opportunities-wpwzf/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/screw-vacuum-pumps-market-size-forecast-strategic-c2bef/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/healthcare-distribution-market-size-forecast-qvfdf/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ncr-paper-market-size-forecast-key-drivers-t8ayf/ https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/tinnitus-management-devices-market-size-forecast-kiyif/ 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Hang mittens, more on Tree of Hope Once again, the Tree of Hope where items providing warmth for the the winter for those in need will be in placee in front of the Unitarian Universalist church of Saco and Biddeford at 60 School St. in Saco. Hats, gloves, mittens, scarves, socks and other items for the cold, winter weather donated by members of the church and community will be placed on the tree and are free to take by anyone in need. Community participation and donations are welcome as well as the taking of the gifts by those who need them. To donate, contact the church at 207-282-0062. Matherne Geraldine Matherne named Biddeford’s finance director Geraldine Matherne will serve as Biddeford’s next finance director. The Biddeford City Council unanimously supported City Manager James Bennett’s nomination Matherne for the position Dec. 3. Matherne is a Biddeford resident and has nine years of experience in the city’s Finance Department. She previously served as a staff account for the city and was promoted to deputy finance director in 2018. “I am excited and honored to return to the city of Biddeford as your Finance Director,” Matherne said. “I am confident my knowledge, experiences, and vested interest in the community I am part of will serve our citizens well.” Matherne has most recently served as the finance director for the city of Saco, a position she held since July 2022. She holds a graduate certificate in Accounting from the University of Southern Maine. “I am pleased to welcome Gerry back to the city of Biddeford as a member of our leadership team,” Bennett said. “Gerry’s proven expertise and her extensive knowledge of our history and processes will make for a seamless transition for residents and staff.” Sasha Pavlak, the city’s current finance director, has announced her resignation effective Dec. 31. Matherne will assume the responsibilities of the position on Jan. 5. “I am thrilled to have someone with Gerry’s experience and deep roots in our community returning to lead the Finance Department,” said Mayor Martin Grohman. “I would also like to thank Sasha for her service to our city this year and wish her continued success.” Stuart Atlantic FCU awards scholarship to Dayton woman Atlantic Federal Credit Union congratulates Danielle Stuart of Dayton, the 2024 Atlantic/Amable & Vivian Caron $2,500 college scholarship recipient. Currently attending Husson University, Danielle was selected from numerous entries to receive the award after submitting her application and writing a short essay about her favorite mentor and how they impacted her life. Atlantic President/Chief Executive Officer Scott Chretien said, “We are happy to award Danielle Stuart this scholarship and are proud to support her as she pursues her education. Amable A. Caron and Vivian Caron were long-time members of the Credit Union who wanted to help young members like Danielle pursue higher education. It is an honor to continue their legacy.” Aroma Joe’s Aroma Joe’s opens 2nd location in Saco Aroma Joe’s opened of its newest location in Saco at 933 Portland Road. This 980-square-foot drive thru location features handcrafted coffee and espresso drinks, unique flavor infusions, signature AJ’s RUSH® Energy Drinks and all-day food options. The shop will be open daily from 4:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. The shop will employ approximately 20 local residents, according to a company press release, and is the second Aroma Joe’s to open in Saco under the leadership of franchisee Maryna Shuliakouskaya. Shuliakouskaya was one of Aroma Joe’s first franchisees, opening her first shop in 2013. She now owns and operates 10 locations and is a passionate mentor and motivator for her staff and leadership teams. “We’re excited to grow within the Saco community,” said Maryna Shuliakouskaya, owner of both Saco Aroma Joe’s locations. “This new store allows us to serve more guests and create additional opportunities for local team members. It’s all about sharing the positive energy that Aroma Joe’s is known for.” Aroma Joe’s is a major disruptor in the quick service coffee space, headquartered in Scarborough, Maine and now with 120 locations across Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Florida, Rhode Island, Connecticut and New York. They are currently planning development and opening new stores along the East Coast from Maine to Florida. Aroma Joe’s is actively expanding, and multi-unit franchise opportunities are available. Thornton Academy is presented with the 2024 – 2027 Apple Distinguished School Award. From left are: Ben Grasso, assistant head for faculty and academic affairs; Rene Menard, headmaster; Ben Nasse, director of Technology; and Ryan Wiggins, education leadership executive at Apple. Contributed / Thornton Academy Thornton honored as Apple Distinguished School Thornton Academy, a high school in Saco, has again been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for “inspiring, imagining, and impacting teaching and learning through continuous innovation,” according to a school press release. The Apple Distinguished School program, recognized in 37 countries, is by invitation only. Schools must meet the program’s rigorous qualifications, including innovative use of the Apple platform, leadership and faculty proficiency with iPad/Apple Pen or Mac, and all students and educators use Apple devices as their primary learning or teaching device to ensure access equity across the entire academic experience. Representatives from Apple and educators from across New England visited the Thornton Academy campus last month to observe teachers and students using Apple technology in the classroom and to see firsthand what makes an Apple Distinguished School. Thornton is one of only 10 schools in all of New England to receive the honor. It has been honored as an Apple Distinguished School continually since 2016. “As educators, we strive to prepare students for a changing world, which includes being comfortable working with technology,” said Ben Grasso, assistant head for faculty and academic affairs at Thornton. “Whatever path students choose after high school, whether they attend college, pursue a trade, or join the military, they will certainly be exposed to technology, and attending an Apple Distinguished School like Thornton Academy gives them a strong foundation to build on.” On its website, Apple notes that “The Apple Distinguished Schools program supports forward-thinking education leaders and their communities who are using Apple technology to inspire, imagine, and impact teaching and learning.” SMAA offers winter Tai Chi Classes Falls are not an inevitable part of aging, yet they can have enormous economic and personal consequences for older adults. According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of injury for adults ages 65 years and older. The good news is that older adults who remain active have the power to prevent falls. Registrations are now open for in-person and virtual Tai Chi for Health & Balance – Falls Prevention classes offered through Southern Maine Agency on Aging. Tai Chi for Health & Balance is a 10-week, 20-session class that helps improve mobility, breathing, and relaxation with an enjoyable form of exercise that almost anyone can learn. “As a trusted community resource, we are honored to provide evidence-based health programs – such as Tai Chi – that are proven to reduce the incidence of falls among older adults,” said Meg Barhite, SMAA volunteer services director. “Increased strength, flexibility, better mental focus, and improved balance are all wonderful outcomes of the program. Just as importantly, our classes provide social engagement opportunities for clients, and are led by dedicated and trained volunteers.” Southern Maine Agency on Aging’s Winter Tai Chi Classes include: • Introduction to Tai Chi at the South Portland Public Library, Jan. 6 – March 20, Mondays and Thursdays, 9-10 a.m. • Introduction to Tai Chi at Scarborough Community Services, Jan. 14 – March 20, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:30-2:30 p.m. • Introduction to Tai Chi on Zoom (Technical assistance offered for users new to Zoom), Jan. 14 – March 20, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9-10 a.m. • Deepening Tai Chi on Zoom for participants who have completed the SMAA intro class Jan. 14 – March 20, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9-10 a.m. Class sizes are limited and pre-registration is required. Visit the events page at smaaa.org/events or call 207-396-6578 to pre-register and check out other class locations and dates. For more information, call 207-396-6578 or email agewell@smaaa.org. SMS a finalists in STEM competition Saco Middle School is one of 300 public middle and high schools from across the country named as a state finalist in the 15th annual Samsung Solve for Tomorrow national STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) competition. In addition to Saco Middle School, the other Maine State Finalists are: Nokomis Regional High School in Newport, Nokomis Regional Middle School in Newport, Noble High School in North Berwick, and Camden Hills Regional High School (two teams) in Rockport. Each finalist has won a $2,500 Samsung technology prize package, an initial milestone on the path toward becoming one of three National Winners that will each unlock $100,000 for their school. Overall, Samsung will award more than $2 million in prizes to this year’s participating schools. Samsung Solve for Tomorrow is among the most awarded national STEM competitive programs, according to a Samsung press release, recently recognized with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Citizens Award for Best Commitment to Education Program, the Digiday Greater Good Award for Education, and a Silver Anthem Award for Community Engagement and CSR. The education-based citizenship initiative empowers students in grades 6–12 to leverage the power of STEM to create innovative solutions addressing critical issues in their local communities. The competition engages Gen Z and Gen Alpha students to catalyze positive change by applying Problem-based Learning (PBL) principles, environmental stewardship, and social impact entrepreneurship to tackle some of society’s most pressing challenges. By promoting active, hands-on learning, Solve for Tomorrow makes STEM more tangible for young learners, and opens doors to future opportunities in STEM education and careers. For the next phase of the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition, teachers must create a focused activity plan. Plans must outline how students will execute their STEM project by defining the community problem, proposing a STEM-based solution, specifying objectives, detailing activities to reach their anticipated goals, and articulating the expected positive impact their solution will bring to the community. Activity plans are due Jan. 9, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Based on these activity plans, judges will select State Winners, who will be revealed in March 2025. Comments are not available on this story. Send questions/comments to the editors. « Previous