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Apple continues to push boundaries with its iOS updates , and the upcoming iOS 18.2 is no exception. Currently in its fourth beta stage for developers, this version introduces refinements to user interfaces, enhanced accessibility options, and advanced AI-powered features. The public release, expected in December, promises a host of innovative tools that cater to both casual and professional users. This article explores the standout features in iOS 18.2 and their potential impact on the user experience. Refinements and Enhancements in iOS 18.2 Beta Apple's beta releases are designed to give developers and public beta testers a sneak peek at the new functionality while providing time to address bugs and fine-tune the system. The iOS 18.2 beta brings several noteworthy improvements: For the i Phone 16 series , Apple introduces accessibility settings for Camera Control , simplifying access to advanced camera features. By integrating these settings into the standard Camera Control options, Apple ensures a more intuitive experience for users with varying levels of expertise. The Photos app now supports millisecond timestamps for videos, a highly requested feature among creators and videographers. This update makes it easier to identify precise moments in video content, catering to professionals who require high accuracy in editing and analysis. The updated profile picture icon in the Mail app reflects Apple's commitment to small yet impactful design changes that improve the overall aesthetic and usability of its apps. Beyond these specific updates, iOS 18.2 beta features subtle interface tweaks across multiple apps and settings, enhancing navigation and creating a more cohesive user experience. Apple Intelligence: Advanced AI Features in iOS 18.2 iOS 18.2 represents a significant leap forward in artificial intelligence integration, providing users with tools that enhance creativity, productivity, and interactivity. Below are the major AI-driven features set to debut in iOS 18.2: A standalone app called Image Playground is making its debut, allowing users to create custom images from text prompts and themes . Whether for professional projects or personal use, this tool empowers users to generate stunning visuals effortlessly. Integration : The app is also embedded in native apps like Notes , enabling seamless use of custom images within documents. Applications : Ideal for creating social media content, presentations, and personalized artwork. The Image Wand feature transforms rough sketches into polished, professional-grade images. This tool is especially useful for designers, artists, and professionals in need of quick visuals without compromising on quality. How It Works : Users sketch an idea, and the app refines it with precision and detail. Impact : Encourages creativity while saving time and effort. Apple introduces Genmoji , a dedicated editor for creating custom emojis. This feature is embedded directly into the emoji keyboard , making it easy for users to design personalized emojis for fun or branding purposes. Customizability : Users can tweak facial expressions, colors, and accessories to create unique emojis. Use Case : Adds a personal touch to messages and enhances communication. Two standout updates to the Writing Tools feature include: Compose : Leveraging OpenAI’s ChatGPT , this tool generates high-quality text based on user prompts. It is ideal for drafting emails, writing essays, or creating professional content quickly. Describe Your Change : This allows users to specify precise text modifications rather than relying on preset options, offering unparalleled control and accuracy in content editing. Apple takes Siri to the next level by integrating OpenAI’s ChatGPT . This enhancement enables Siri to process more complex requests, such as generating detailed reports or answering in-depth queries. Privacy : Users must grant explicit permission to enable this feature, ensuring privacy remains a priority. Applications : From scheduling tasks to providing tailored recommendations, Siri becomes more versatile and intelligent. Exclusive to the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro , Visual Intelligence introduces a cutting-edge feature that allows users to gather environmental information quickly. Quick Viewfinder : Holding the Camera Control button on the lock screen opens a rapid photo viewfinder that analyzes the surroundings for relevant data. Applications : Useful for identifying landmarks, scanning QR codes, or retrieving contextual information in real time. Why These Features Matter The features in iOS 18.2 are more than just updates; they represent a shift toward enhancing creativity, accessibility, and intelligence in everyday use. By refining existing tools and integrating AI seamlessly, Apple ensures that users spend less time navigating and more time creating. The accessibility updates reflect Apple’s commitment to inclusivity, making its technology more approachable for users with varying needs. Tools like Image Playground , Compose , and Describe Your Change empower users to complete tasks faster and with greater precision, making iOS 18.2 a valuable update for professionals. Features such as Genmoji and Visual Intelligence set Apple apart from competitors, showcasing the company’s ability to blend innovation with practicality. Device Compatibility and Availability iOS 18.2 will be available for all iPhones starting from the iPhone 12 series and later, ensuring a broad user base can benefit from these enhancements. However, features like Visual Intelligence will remain exclusive to the latest iPhone models. The final version of iOS 18.2 is expected to roll out in December 2024. Users enrolled in the public beta program can access these features early. The iOS 18.2 update is a game-changer for Apple users, bringing a mix of practical refinements and cutting-edge AI capabilities. From Genmoji for personalized emojis to advanced tools like Image Playground and Visual Intelligence , this update caters to a diverse range of needs. Whether you're a creative professional, a productivity enthusiast, or simply someone who values seamless functionality, iOS 18.2 offers something for everyone. As Apple continues to innovate, it solidifies its position as a leader in the tech industry, delivering features that enhance usability, creativity, and connectivity. With its anticipated release just around the corner, iOS 18.2 promises to set new benchmarks for smartphone operating systems, ensuring Apple remains at the forefront of technological advancement.
NoneMinister of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Fayval Williams, says the Ministry is committed to putting additional resources in place to ensure timely submission of appropriations accounts to the Auditor General. She was addressing Wednesday’s (Dec. 11) post Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House, in response to a recent report that government funds, totalling $3 trillion, have been unaccounted for across 16 government entities over a six- to 11-year period. Stating that the funds have not gone missing, she explained that several Ministries have been tardy in submitting their appropriations accounts, which reflect expenditure in a financial year compared against the amounts approved by Parliament. She pointed out that appropriations accounts are annual reports that are to be submitted to the Auditor General to allow for an audit to be done. “We at the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service are committed to working with Ministries that are behind in terms of putting additional resources in place in order to begin to help these Ministries to clear the backlog and to ensure timely completion of these reports at the standard that is required by the Auditor General,” she said. She noted that many of the appropriations accounts “were outstanding during fiscal year 2012/2013 to the fiscal year 2015/2016, so the new administration that came in at that time would have had a difficult time bringing those accounts up the speed and that’s what we are witnessing here now.” “But again, I say we are committed as a matter of good governance to ensure that Ministries put in the effort to get these reports done,” Mrs. Williams stated. The Minister said that the goal is to have the appropriations accounts done in a timely manner and submitted within four months after the close of the fiscal year. She commended all the Ministries that are up-to-date in submitting their annual reports to the Auditor General. Minister Williams noted that while Ministries need to get up-to-date with their appropriations accounts submissions to the Auditor General, safeguards are in place to guide how taxpayers’ money is spent. Explaining the process of how money is spent in government, she informed that each year in October, the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service puts out what is known as the budget call which goes out to all Ministries. “The respective Ministries would compile their budgets for the year within certain guidelines and submit those to the Ministry of Finance. The budgets from each Ministry are reviewed by the Ministry of Finance and the respective Ministries, as the budgets have to be within prescribed limits, which are known as ceilings. The figures from these budgets are compiled into what is called the ‘yellow book’ that is presented to Parliament by March of the fiscal year for approval,” she outlined. “After parliament approves the budget, it is changed to... a grey colour and it says as passed by the House of Representatives, and it will give the date that this was passed,” she pointed out. She further explained that during the year, on a monthly basis, Ministries will submit their monthly cash flows to the Ministry of Finance to indicate their spend for the month, which could include salaries, capital spending needs, and other operational activities. She noted that all funds allocated to Ministries for spending goes through the Accountant General for payment through the banking system to the account of the contractors or service providers. “I just want to say again to Jamaicans; there are many safeguards in place for taxpayers money and how we spend it, but I do agree that we need to complete that final step, which is to submit the annual reports to the Auditor General for whatever the Auditor General needs to do to approve those reports,” she stressed. Minister of Education, Youth, Skills and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon reiterated that there are no missing funds in the public sector. “I have seen the reports and I’ve seen even social media campaigns and letter writing campaigns that are happening, based on false information. The reality is that some ministries have not finished doing their accounts and that’s a problem, but there are no missing funds,” she emphasised. “In order for the Auditor General to do their audits, they need it in a particular system and that is what the Ministries have been behind in putting their reports in that system so they can be audited. But they do, in fact, present reports every month to the Ministry of Finance,” she noted.Fox News senior White House correspondent Jacqui Heinrich explains the latest on President-elect Donald Trump publicly supporting his nomination of Pete Hegseth for defense secretary on Truth Social and more on 'Special Report.' Republican Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa, the first female combat veteran elected to the Senate and a member of the Armed Services Committee, has signaled toward supporting President-elect Trump's nominee for defense secretary. After meeting on Monday for a second time with Pete Hegseth, Ernst wrote in a statement that "as I support Pete through this process, I look forward to a fair hearing based on truth, not anonymous sources." An Army National Guard officer who deployed to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and who until last month was a longtime Fox News host, Hegseth has been the focus of a slew of reports spotlighting a series of drinking and sexual misconduct allegations. Hegseth has denied allegations that he mistreated women and has vowed that he won't drink "a drop of alcohol" if confirmed as defense secretary. A separate report showcased allegations Hegseth mismanaged a veterans nonprofit organization that he once led. TRUMP RALLIES BEHIND HEGSETH BUT INVITES DESANTIS TO ARMY-NAVY GAME Pete Hegseth, President-elect Trump's nominee for defense secretary, walks with his wife, Jennifer Rauchet, left, to meet with Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, of the Armed Services Committee at the Capitol on Dec. 9, 2024. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) Ernst, a conservative lawmaker first elected to the Senate in 2014, is considered a pivotal vote in the confirmation battle over Hegseth, who in the past has questioned the role of women in combat. The senator is also a survivor of sexual assault who has a strong legislative record of addressing sexual assault and harassment in the military. She said in her statement that "following our encouraging conversations, Pete committed to completing a full audit of the Pentagon and selecting a senior official who will uphold the roles and value of our servicemen and women – based on quality and standards, not quotas – and who will prioritize and strengthen my work to prevent sexual assault within the ranks." TRUMP ORBIT RAMPS UP CRITICISM OF ERNST OVER HEGSETH NOMINATION Ernst's office told Fox News on Monday that "the senator has consistently followed the process, which she has said since the beginning, and doing her job as a United States senator." After meeting with Hegseth last week, Ernst said in a social media post that she and Trump's defense secretary nominee had a "frank and thorough" conversation. A day later, when asked in an interview on Fox News' "America's Newsroom" if she wasn't ready to vote to confirm Hegseth, the senator replied, "I think you are right." Ahead of his second meeting with the senator, Hegseth told Fox News' Aishah Hasnie, "I'm really looking forward to meeting with Sen. Ernst. I appreciate her. I respect her background and her service. She's incredible. And the ongoing conversation has been very fruitful." Over the past few days, a high-profile Trump ally has threatened to fuel a primary challenge against Ernst when she's up for re-election in 2026. "This is the red line. This is not a joke. ... The funding is already being put together. Donors are calling like crazy. Primaries are going to be launched," said Charlie Kirk, an influential conservative activist and radio and TV host who co-founded and steers Turning Point USA. GET TO KNOW DONALD TRUMP'S CABINET: WHO HAS THE PRESIDENT-ELECT PICKED SO FAR? Kirk, on his radio program, warned that "if you support the president’s agenda, you’re good. You’re marked safe from a primary. You go up against Pete Hegseth, the president repeatedly, then don’t be surprised, Joni Ernst, if all of a sudden you have a primary challenge in Iowa." In Iowa, conservative commentator and media personality Steve Deace took to social media and used his radio program to highlight that he would consider launching a primary challenge against Ernst. "Defeating an incumbent US Senator takes high name ID, connections, and funding potential," Deace wrote. "I'm one of the few people in Iowa with all three." Deace, who supported Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in this year's Iowa GOP presidential caucus, said, "I don't want to be a Senator, but I am willing to primary her for the good of the cause if I'm assured I have Trump's support going in. Or I am willing to throw my support and network behind someone else President Trump prefers to primary Joni Ernst instead." Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, a top Trump supporter in the Iowa caucuses, wrote a column on Breitbart urging Hegseth's confirmation. While she didn't mention Ernst by name, Bird took aim at "D.C. politicians" who "think they can ignore the voices of their constituents and entertain smears from the same outlets that have pushed out lies for years." Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa (Drew Angerer/Getty Images/File) David Kochel, a veteran GOP consultant who was a key strategist and early backer of Ernst during her successful 2014 Senate campaign, told Fox News that "Joni Ernst is doing what the Constitution says what her job is, which is advise and consent." "I think that everybody should just give her the space to do her job, and making threats to a combat veteran usually doesn't work out great," Kochel said. CLICK TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Trump has praised Hegseth in the past few days. "Hegseth is doing very well. His support is strong and deep, much more so than the Fake News," the president-elect wrote on Friday. But Fox News and other news organizations have reported that Trump is potentially considering nominating DeSantis as defense secretary as a possible replacement should Hegseth's nomination falter. Ernst's name has also come up as a possible replacement. But the senator said last week in an interview with RealClearPolitics that "I am not seeking to be secretary of defense." Fox News' Chad Pergram, Tyler Olson and Julia Johnson contributed to this report.
Joyful holidaysMan City collapse ‘difficult to swallow’ – Pep GuardiolaBy MICHELLE L. PRICE WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — An online spat between factions of Donald Trump’s supporters over immigration and the tech industry has thrown internal divisions in his political movement into public display, previewing the fissures and contradictory views his coalition could bring to the White House. The rift laid bare the tensions between the newest flank of Trump’s movement — wealthy members of the tech world including billionaire Elon Musk and fellow entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and their call for more highly skilled workers in their industry — and people in Trump’s Make America Great Again base who championed his hardline immigration policies. The debate touched off this week when Laura Loomer , a right-wing provocateur with a history of racist and conspiratorial comments, criticized Trump’s selection of Sriram Krishnan as an adviser on artificial intelligence policy in his coming administration. Krishnan favors the ability to bring more skilled immigrants into the U.S. Loomer declared the stance to be “not America First policy” and said the tech executives who have aligned themselves with Trump were doing so to enrich themselves. Much of the debate played out on the social media network X, which Musk owns. Loomer’s comments sparked a back-and-forth with venture capitalist and former PayPal executive David Sacks , whom Trump has tapped to be the “White House A.I. & Crypto Czar.” Musk and Ramaswamy, whom Trump has tasked with finding ways to cut the federal government , weighed in, defending the tech industry’s need to bring in foreign workers. It bloomed into a larger debate with more figures from the hard-right weighing in about the need to hire U.S. workers, whether values in American culture can produce the best engineers, free speech on the internet, the newfound influence tech figures have in Trump’s world and what his political movement stands for. Trump has not yet weighed in on the rift, and his presidential transition team did not respond to a message seeking comment. Musk, the world’s richest man who has grown remarkably close to the president-elect , was a central figure in the debate, not only for his stature in Trump’s movement but his stance on the tech industry’s hiring of foreign workers. Technology companies say H-1B visas for skilled workers, used by software engineers and others in the tech industry, are critical for hard-to-fill positions. But critics have said they undercut U.S. citizens who could take those jobs. Some on the right have called for the program to be eliminated, not expanded. Born in South Africa, Musk was once on an a H-1B visa himself and defended the industry’s need to bring in foreign workers. “There is a permanent shortage of excellent engineering talent,” he said in a post. “It is the fundamental limiting factor in Silicon Valley.” Related Articles National Politics | Should the U.S. increase immigration levels for highly skilled workers? National Politics | Trump threat to immigrant health care tempered by economic hopes National Politics | In states that ban abortion, social safety net programs often fail families National Politics | Court rules Georgia lawmakers can subpoena Fani Willis for information related to her Trump case National Politics | New 2025 laws hit hot topics from AI in movies to rapid-fire guns Trump’s own positions over the years have reflected the divide in his movement. His tough immigration policies, including his pledge for a mass deportation, were central to his winning presidential campaign. He has focused on immigrants who come into the U.S. illegally but he has also sought curbs on legal immigration , including family-based visas. As a presidential candidate in 2016, Trump called the H-1B visa program “very bad” and “unfair” for U.S. workers. After he became president, Trump in 2017 issued a “Buy American and Hire American” executive order , which directed Cabinet members to suggest changes to ensure H-1B visas were awarded to the highest-paid or most-skilled applicants to protect American workers. Trump’s businesses, however, have hired foreign workers, including waiters and cooks at his Mar-a-Lago club , and his social media company behind his Truth Social app has used the the H-1B program for highly skilled workers. During his 2024 campaign for president, as he made immigration his signature issue, Trump said immigrants in the country illegally are “poisoning the blood of our country” and promised to carry out the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. But in a sharp departure from his usual alarmist message around immigration generally, Trump told a podcast this year that he wants to give automatic green cards to foreign students who graduate from U.S. colleges. “I think you should get automatically, as part of your diploma, a green card to be able to stay in this country,” he told the “All-In” podcast with people from the venture capital and technology world. Those comments came on the cusp of Trump’s budding alliance with tech industry figures, but he did not make the idea a regular part of his campaign message or detail any plans to pursue such changes.
Video: Carmelo Anthony Reveals Kevin Garnett Said 'Wild S--t' Before 2013 FightAN ONLINE shopper was left mortified after her brand new kitten heels left her looking like Mrs Doubtfire. With the festive season in full swing, many fashionistas have been racing to get their hands on the perfect sparkly Christmas outfits - and amongst them is also mum Rebecca. The beauty lover, 34, already had a look in her mind for the festive get-together with her pals and went on ASOS to find a pair of heels to match the vibe. ''So I wanted some new shoes for my Christmas girls' night out this weekend and I thought I'll try some red pointy shoes.'' This is when she decided to check the online fast fashion giant where she found a pair of burgundy red kitten heels selling for £28. ''I'm wearing leather trousers, so you wouldn't be able to see the heels anyway,'' the mum-of-one shared her vision in the video . Unfortunately for the trendy make-up artist, when the heels finally arrived, they turned out to be an epic fail. ''I tried them on and it's giving Caitlyn Jenner / Mrs Doubtfire ,'' Rebecca left everyone in stitches, as she shared the hilarious photo on her page . Horrified by the purchase, the online shopper also tagged the brand in the caption, writing: ''@ASOS, keep them. ''Deffo don’t recommend,'' she warned fellow fashionistas to steer clear of the ''rancid'' heels. Since being posted on the platform, Rebecca's clip has taken the internet by storm, winning the mum a whopping 90k views. More than 100 viewers flooded to comments in total hysterics and one person had, fortunately, seen what the kitten heels looked like in person just in time. ''omg girl you saved me these were in my basket I just yeeted them out.'' ''Oh they’re .... They’re something,'' another was quite lost for words. ''It's giving Supernanny ,'' an eagle-eyed social media user joked. However, the red kitten heels appear to have sparked a fierce debate - as there were also plenty of those who liked the trend. ''I bought these and I love them,'' wrote one ASOS fan. ''Omg I love mine, now I’m sat here thinking was I deluded,'' another wondered. HERE are some of the best ways you can save and get the best prices at ASOS and other outlet stores. Save money with ASOS Flash Sales and promo codes Flash Sales are mini-sales that last anywhere between a couple of hours to a few days - such as the 'Sample Sale'. When one occurs, an ASOS promo code will often be advertised that can be used on a particular product or range. Flash Sales also happen around bank holidays and other 'special' days like Valentine's Day, Halloween and April Fools' Day. Get an ASOS birthday discount code When signing up to ASOS, or any retailer for that matter, make sure to put in all your personal details, including your birthday, for special rewards. If a retailer knows your birthday, they'll send you a code two weeks before for you to use on full-price items. Sign up to the ASOS newsletter Again, this doesn't just apply for ASOS, but signing up to newsletters keeps you in the loop with all the latest deals and discounts as soon as they're announced. By signing up, you're usually rewarded with a new customer promo code for money off your first purchase. Buy from the multipack section Multipack sections often go unnoticed but they're a lifesaver for saving money on wardrobe essentials. For example, a plain white ASOS DESIGN women's t-shirt costs £8* when bought by itself, but a pack of two t-shirts comes in at £15* and a pack of three comes in at £22*. Get cheaper delivery While it's understandable you wan't your new product as soon as possible, try and pay for the least expensive delivery option - even if it means waiting an extra day or two for it to arrive. ASOS offers free Standard Delivery (usually £4.50) on all purchases over £40, too. Find deals in the sales If you're looking for ASOS discounts, make sure you check the outlet. The ASOS Outlet is great for finding cheap out-of-season stock, just as you'd expect at a regular outlet shop. You can find items with huge discounts of up to 70%. This comes after ASOS made a major change to its return fees , sparking fury amongst shoppers. The online retailer started charging customers when they return items unless they spend a certain amount. UK shoppers who frequently return orders will be charged £3.95 unless they keep up to £40 of their order. The new rule, which has been introduced to crack down on serial returners, came into effect in October. Talk of the rule change has upset ASOS shoppers, with some even threatening to boycott the online store. Commenting on X, formally known as Twitter, one user wrote: "The problem for large returns is the fact half of your stock is ill-fitting and poor quality. "You’re another brand now alienating your loyal customers." "Well ASOS if you actually made clothes that fit so I wouldn’t need to buy multiple sizes we wouldn’t have that problem, consider me no longer a customer," posted another. While another wrote; "Did you [ASOS] consider that returner fee isolates customers who don't fit ideal body standards? "As a curvy girl, I have to order several sizes and often make returns as your sizing is not consistent, now I'm going to be charged for it? Way to make me feel bad about my body."
Man City stumble again while Arsenal and Bayern Munich earn dominant winsWill Kamala Harris run for California governor in 2026? The question is already swirlingAP Sports SummaryBrief at 5:24 p.m. ESTWASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for intelligence chief, Tulsi Gabbard, faced fresh scrutiny Monday on Capitol Hill about her proximity to Russian-ally Syria amid the sudden collapse of that country’s hardline Assad rule. Gabbard ignored shouted questions about her 2017 visit to war-torn Syria as she ducked into one of several private meetings with senators who are being asked to confirm Trump’s unusual nominees . But the Democrat-turned-Republican Army National Reserve lieutenant colonel delivered a statement in which she reiterated her support for Trump’s America First approach to national security and a more limited U.S. military footprint overseas. “I want to address the issue that’s in the headlines right now: I stand in full support and wholeheartedly agree with the statements that President Trump has made over these last few days with regards to the developments in Syria,” Gabbard said exiting a Senate meeting. The incoming president’s Cabinet and top administrative choices are dividing his Republican allies and drawing concern , if not full opposition, from Democrats and others. Not just Gabbard, but other Trump nominees including Pentagon pick Pete Hegseth, were back at the Capitol ahead of what is expected to be volatile confirmation hearings next year. The incoming president is working to put his team in place for an ambitious agenda of mass immigrant deportations, firing federal workers and rollbacks of U.S. support for Ukraine and NATO allies. “We’re going to sit down and visit, that’s what this is all about,” said Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., as he welcomed Gabbard into his office. The president-elect announced other appointments Monday, including his lawyer Harmeet Dhillon for assistant attorney general for civil rights at the Justice Department and Mark Paoletta as the returning general counsel of the Office of Management and Budget. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary pick Hegseth appeared to be picking up support from once-skeptical senators, the former Army National Guard major denying sexual misconduct allegations and pledging not to drink alcohol if he is confirmed. The president-elect’s choice to lead the FBI, Kash Patel , who has written extensively about locking up Trump’s foes and proposed dismantling the Federal Bureau of Investigation, launched his first visits with senators Monday. “I expect our Republican Senate is going to confirm all of President Trump’s nominees,” said Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., on social media. Despite widespread concern about the nominees’ qualifications and demeanors for the jobs that are among the highest positions in the U.S. government, Trump’s team is portraying the criticism against them as nothing more than political smears and innuendo. Showing that concern, nearly 100 former senior U.S. diplomats and intelligence and national security officials have urged Senate leaders to schedule closed-door hearings to allow for a full review of the government’s files on Gabbard. Trump’s allies have described the criticisms of Hegseth in particular as similar to those lodged against Brett Kavanaugh, the former president’s Supreme Court nominee who denied a sexual assault allegation and went on to be confirmed during Trump’s first term in office. Said Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., about Hegseth: “Anonymous accusations are trying to destroy reputations again. We saw this with Kavanaugh. I won’t stand for it.” One widely watched Republican, Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa, herself a former Army National Guard lieutenant colonel and sexual assault survivor who had been criticized by Trump allies for her cool reception to Hegseth, appeared more open to him after their follow-up meeting Monday. “I appreciate Pete Hegseth’s responsiveness and respect for the process,” Ernst said in a statement. Ernst said that following “encouraging conversations,” he had committed to selecting a senior official who will “prioritize and strengthen my work to prevent sexual assault within the ranks. As I support Pete through this process, I look forward to a fair hearing based on truth, not anonymous sources.” Ernst also had praise for Patel — “He shares my passion for shaking up federal agencies” — and for Gabbard. Once a rising Democratic star, Gabbard, who represented Hawaii in Congress, arrived a decade ago in Washington, her surfboard in tow, a new generation of potential leaders. She ran unsuccessfully for president in 2020. But Gabbard abruptly left the party and briefly became an independent before joining with Trump’s 2024 campaign as one of his enthusiasts, in large part over his disdain for U.S. involvement overseas and opposition to helping Ukraine battle Russia. Her visit to Syria to meet with then-President Bashar Assad around the time of Trump’s first inauguration during the country’s bloody civil war stunned her former colleagues and the Washington national security establishment. The U.S. had severed diplomatic relations with Syria. Her visit was seen by some as legitimizing a brutal leader who was accused of war crimes. Gabbard has defended the trip, saying it’s important to open dialogue, but critics hear in her commentary echoes of Russia-fueled talking points. Assad fled to Moscow over the weekend after Islamist rebels overtook Syria in a surprise attack, ending his family’s five decades of rule. She said her own views have been shaped by “my multiple deployments and seeing firsthand the cost of war and the threat of Islamist terrorism.” Gabbard said, “It’s one of the many reasons why I appreciate President Trump’s leadership and his election, where he is fully committed, as he has said over and over, to bring about an end to wars.” Last week, the nearly 100 former officials, who served in both Democratic and Republican administrations, said in the letter to Senate leaders they were “alarmed” by the choice of Gabbard to oversee all 18 U.S. intelligence agencies. They said her past actions “call into question her ability to deliver unbiased intelligence briefings to the President, Congress, and to the entire national security apparatus.” The Office of the Director of National Intelligence was created after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks to coordinate the nation’s intelligence agencies and act as the president’s main intelligence adviser. ___ Associated Press writer Stephen Groves contributed to this report. More articles from the BDN
PARÍS (AP) — La Federación Francesa de Fútbol no intervendrá en la disputa entre Kylian Mbappé y su antiguo club, el Paris Saint-Germain, por salarios no pagados. El PSG solicitó a la federación que examinara la decisión del mes pasado de la comisión de apelaciones de la liga francesa de mantener una orden que obliga al club a pagar a Mbappé 55 millones de euros (60 millones de dólares). La federación indicó el viernes que su departamento legal encontró que “la solicitud de una evocación federal del caso presentada no cumplía con las condiciones requeridas”. El PSG no respondió de inmediato al anuncio. La comisión legal de la liga falló a favor de Mbappé, pero el PSG insistió en que no le debía dinero y apeló la decisión. Las partes fueron escuchadas nuevamente el 15 de octubre y el veredicto permaneció sin cambios. Mbappé previamente rechazó una oferta de mediación en su disputa con el PSG, diciendo que el club le debía el salario de tres meses y el último tercio de un bono de lealtad. Este verano se unió al Real Madrid como traspaso libre después de anotar un récord del PSG de 256 goles en siete años. El PSG argumentó que cuando Mbappé estuvo marginado antes de la temporada 2023-24 —siguiendo su decisión de no extender su contrato— llegaron a un acuerdo verbal en el que aseguraron que el jugador optó por renunciar a los bonos para volver al equipo. La relación de Mbappé con el PSG terminó en medio de profundas tensiones y algunos aficionados lo abuchearon en su último partido en casa en el Parc des Princes. El PSG se sintió decepcionado por Mbappé después de ofrecerle el contrato más lucrativo en la historia del club cuando firmó un nuevo contrato en 2022. Esta historia fue traducida del inglés por un editor de AP con la ayuda de una herramienta de inteligencia artificial generativa.
IN YOUR CORNER: Look back at Kent Falls CCC campDigital transformation is no longer just about implementing new technologies — it’s about ensuring that people remain at the heart of innovation, psychologist, researcher and author Dr Patrizia Ariane Ecker has said. In an interview with Gulf Times, she explained that success today is defined by the ability to address real human needs, encourage adaptability and foster lifelong learning. “This can be achieved by moving away from a technology-centric approach to a human-centric one focusing on how technology can enhance creativity, decision making and collaboration,” she said. With over 15 years of experience, Dr Ecker has founded a boutique consultancy specialising in digital transformation, AI, and cognitive biases. Her upcoming book, The Digital Reinforcement of Bias and Belief, explores the cognitive and social implications of web-based information processing. Her focus is on human-centric digital transformation, which means moving away from viewing technology as the centrepiece and instead emphasising its role as an enabler for people. “The future of AI and digital tools lies in complementing human creativity, critical thinking, and decision making, rather than mimicking or replacing them. For instance, fostering lifelong learning and adaptability is crucial. Students, professionals, and governments must align to cultivate a workforce capable of navigating rapid technological shifts, ensuring inclusivity and equity. "Digital transformation and AI have vast potential to drive global development by improving access to education and achieving healthcare advancements, economic growth and sustainable development." As a psychologist she believes that AI has the potential to transform society positively, but only if approached thoughtfully. “AI has the potential to greatly benefit humanity, but its development and use must be guided by thoughtful principles. AI should complement human abilities rather than replace them. By working alongside humans, AI can enhance our natural skills, fostering collaboration and innovation without supplanting the value of human input. "Lifelong learning and critical thinking, among other human-centred skills, must remain a priority. There is a need to establish frameworks that emphasise adaptability and interdisciplinary collaboration in education and workforce development and encourage active participation, especially among younger generations, to reduce decision making aversion and increase societal agency. "Governments can significantly enhance their services and impact by adopting a collaborative and human-centric approach to digital transformation through Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) and by redefining the future workforce, leveraging technology for inclusivity and building a human-centric ecosystem." Dr Ecker said that AI creates new opportunities even though it can reduce some traditional job roles. “Reskilling and upskilling must be prioritised with a strong emphasis on education and training to help individuals adapt to new and emerging roles in the workforce. "Many jobs will evolve rather than disappear, with AI augmenting human capabilities rather than replacing them entirely. This collaboration between humans and technology can lead to more efficient and innovative ways of working. Furthermore, digital tools significantly lower barriers for startups, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation." Dr Ecker noted that Qatar offers a dynamic environment for digital innovation. She has plans to advise organisations by supporting digital transformation initiatives with a strong emphasis on a human centred approach. “The GCC, particularly Qatar, is making significant strides with investments in AI, smart cities, and education. The country’s vision for innovation and sustainability positions it as a leader in the region. With initiatives like the National AI Strategy, Qatar is setting benchmarks in integrating technology with societal goals,” she said. Dr Ecker suggested Qatar should focus on several key areas while strengthening public private collaboration is essential; partnerships between the government, private sector and academia can help design interdisciplinary programmes that define and cultivate the skills needed for the workforce of tomorrow. “Additionally, investing in human-centric initiatives is critical. Innovations that prioritise societal well being such as AI tools for education, healthcare and sustainability, should be encouraged. Qatar could also take a leading role in the region by driving ethical AI standards,” she added. Related Story Qatar establishes WEF's Centre for Fourth Industrial Revolution Justice ministry inaugurates digital legal services
Is ATD Stock a Buy?Pep Guardiola’s side avoided the indignity of a sixth successive defeat in all competitions and looked on course for a welcome victory thanks to a double from Erling Haaland – the first from the penalty spot – and a deflected effort from Ilkay Gundogan. Yet Guardiola was left with his head in hands as Feyenoord roared back in the last 15 minutes with goals from Anis Hadj Moussa, Sergio Gimenez and David Hancko, two of them after Josko Gvardiol errors. Arsenal delivered the statement Champions League win Mikel Arteta had demanded as they swept aside Sporting Lisbon 5-1. Arteta wanted his team to prove their European credentials, and goals from Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Gabriel, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard got their continental campaign back on track in style following the 1-0 defeat at Inter Milan last time out. A memorable victory also ended Sporting’s unbeaten start to the season, a streak of 17 wins and one draw, the vast majority of which prompted Manchester United to prise away head coach Ruben Amorim. Paris St Germain were left in serious of danger of failing to progress in the Champions League as they fell to a 1-0 defeat to Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena. Kim Min-jae’s header late in the first half was enough to send PSG to a third defeat in the competition this season, leaving them six points off the automatic qualification places for the last 16 with three games to play. Luis Enrique’s side, who had Ousmane Dembele sent off, were deservedly beaten by Bayern who dominated chances and possession. Elsewhere, Atletico Madrid were 6-0 winners away to Sparta Prague, Julian Alvarez and Angel Correa each scoring twice whilst there were also goals from Marcos Llorente and Antoine Griezmann. Barcelona ended tournament debutants Brest’s unbeaten start with a 3-0 victory courtesy of two goals from Robert Lewandowski – one a penalty – and Dani Olmo. Lewandowski’s first was his 100th Champions League goal, only the third man to reach the mark after Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. A Castello Lukeba own goal saw Inter Milan go top of the standings with a narrow 1-0 win over RB Leipzig at San Siro, whilst Bayer Leverkusen were emphatic victors against Red Bull Salzburg, Florian Wirtz scoring twice to move Xabi Alonso’s side into the automatic qualification places. Atalanta continued their strong start, albeit whilst conceding a first goal in Europe this season in a 6-1 win away to Young Boys, whilst Tammy Abraham scored the decisive goal as AC Milan beat Slovan Bratislava 3-2.
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NoneThe Houston Rockets might just be one big trade away from being a contender. The 2024-25 NBA season has brought some pleasant surprises and some disappointing teams. The Houston Rockets are among the surprising teams this season as they are currently 21-9 and a half-game lead as the No. 2 seed in a loaded Western Conference. While the Rockets are one of the top seeds in the better of the two conferences, they are being overlooked as a contender. They’ve got a clear-cut style and identity while having depth, but they are lacking one major asset every contending squad needs. They don’t have a clear-cut superstar . However, the Rockets have the necessary trade chips and assets needed to acquire a star on the trade market. They’ve got to be patient and allow the right player to become available to make a move. There is one name who could be up for trade soon, though. Tim Bontemps claims De’Aaron Fox would be “scary” in Houston The narrative, right now, is that De’Aaron Fox needs to be traded from the Sacramento Kings . They are 13-18 and are continually sliding in the Western Conference. The former Kentucky guard led the franchise to end their playoff drought that ran two decades long, but they haven’t found any success beyond that. According to ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, a great fit for Fox would be Houston, pairing him with a Rockets squad that is knocking on the door of contention. He claimed they would be “scary” with the All-Star point guard on their roster. “Fox is a hell of a player. If you put him in Houston or San Antonio, I think that’d be pretty scary,” Bontemps said. Bontemps included the Spurs, which would be quite a unique fit. For now, they have Chris Paul alongside Victor Wembanyama. With Fox being 27-years-old, he could be a long-term pairing with Wembanyama, though. Still, the Rockets fit is quite an interesting one given their current roster makeup. However, Bomtemps listed four teams that could be in play, as one team, in particular, could be in play that might appeal to Fox. “I heard Miami, you know, the Bam [Adebayo] connection, there,” Bontemps said. The duo of Fox and Adebayo played together during college in Lexington, which could lead Fox to wanting to be on his way to South Beach to play with his former teammate. A Fox to Houston trade would shake quite a bit up Earlier this season, Fox, who is entering his prime years in the NBA, scored 60 points in a game, then scored 49 points in his following outing. The Kings aren’t a good basketball team right now, and moving Fox might be the only way forward for them. Of course, if Sacramento were to move Fox, they would then open up the idea of moving DeMar DeRozan and Domantas Sabonis, along with other win-now players, which would allow them to stack draft capital. What would a trade package look like? One would assume if the Kings are moving on from Fox, a rebuild would ensue. Fred VanVleet is a veteran player, but they could eventually flip him for more capital while using the salary to match in a Fox trade. Alongside VanVleet, the Kings could acquire a young guard like Reed Sheppard while trying to secure some draft capital with the high-upside Kentucky product. This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.
Israeli troops stormed one of the last hospitals operating in northern Gaza on Friday, igniting fires and forcing many staff and patients outside to strip in winter weather, the territory’s health ministry said. Kamal Adwan Hospital has been hit multiple times over the past three months by Israeli troops waging an offensive against Hamas fighters in surrounding neighborhoods, according to staff. The ministry said a strike on the hospital a day earlier killed five medical staff. Israel's military said it was conducting operations against Hamas infrastructure and militants in the area of the hospital, without details. It repeated claims that Hamas fighters operate inside Kamal Adwan but provided no evidence. Hospital officials have denied that. The Health Ministry said troops forced medical personnel and patients to assemble in the yard and remove their clothes. Some were led to an unknown location, while some patients were sent to the nearby Indonesian Hospital, which was knocked out of operation after an Israel raid this week. Israeli troops during raids frequently carry out mass detentions, stripping men to their underwear for questioning in what the military says is a security measure as they search for Hamas fighters. The Associated Press doesn’t have access to Kamal Adwan, but armed plainclothes members of the Hamas-led police forces — tasked with keeping security and officially separate from the group’s armed wing — have been seen in other hospitals. The Health Ministry said Israeli troops also set fires in several parts of Kamal Adwan, including the lab and surgery department. It said 25 patients and 60 health workers remained in the hospital out of 75 patients and 180 staff who had been there. The account could not be independently confirmed, and attempts to reach hospital staff were unsuccessful. “Fire is ablaze everywhere in the hospital,” an unidentified member of the staff said in an audio message posted on the social media accounts of hospital director Hossam Abu Safiya. The staffer said some evacuated patients had been unhooked from oxygen. “There are currently patients who could die at any moment,” she said. Since October, Israel’s offensive has virtually sealed off the northern Gaza areas of Jabaliya, Beit Hanoun and Beit Lahiya and leveled large parts of them. Tens of thousands of Palestinians were forced out but thousands are believed to remain in the area, where Kamal Adwan and two other hospitals are located. Troops raided Kamal Adwan in October, and on Tuesday troops stormed and evacuated the Indonesian Hospital. The area has been cut off from food and other aid for months , raising fears of famine. The U.N. says Israeli troops allowed just four humanitarian deliveries to the area from Dec. 1 to Dec. 23. The Israeli rights group Physicians for Human Rights-Israel this week petitioned Israel’s High Court of Justice seeking a halt to military attacks on Kamal Adwan. It warned that forcibly evacuating the hospital would “abandon thousands of residents in northern Gaza.” Before the latest deaths Thursday, the group documented five other staffers killed by Israeli fire since October. Israel launched its campaign in Gaza vowing to destroy Hamas after the group’s Oct. 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel in which militants killed around 1,200 people and abducted some 250 others. Around 100 Israelis remain captive in Gaza, around a third believed to be dead. Israel’s nearly 15-month-old campaign of bombardment and offensives has devastated the territory’s health sector. A year ago, it carried out raids on hospitals in northern Gaza, including Kamal Adwan, Indonesian and al-Awda Hospital, saying they served as bases for Hamas, though it presented little evidence. Israel’s campaign has killed more than 45,400 Palestinians, more than half of them women and children, and wounded more than 108,000 others, according to the Health Ministry. Its count does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. More than 90% of Gaza’s 2.3 million Palestinians have been driven from their homes, most of them now sheltering in sprawling, squalid tent camps in south and central Gaza. Children and adults, many barefoot, huddled Friday on the cold sand in tents whose plastic and cloth sheets whipped in the wind. Overnight temperatures can dip into the 40s Fahrenheit (below 10 Celsius), and sea spray from the Mediterranean can dampen tents just steps away. "I swear to God, their mother and I cover ourselves with one blanket and we cover (their five children) with three blankets that we got from neighbors. Sea waters drowned everything that was ours,” said Muhammad al-Sous, displaced from Beit Lahiya in the north. The children collect plastic bottles to make fires, and pile under the blankets when their only set of clothes is washed and dried in the wind. At least three babies in Gaza have died from exposure to cold in recent days, doctors there have said.The internet is rife with fake reviews. Will AI make it worse?