Home > 

 

wild kingdom casino

2025-01-12
DePaul's strong start to the season has taken a slight downturn now that the schedule is getting tougher. Things won't get any easier for the Blue Demons (7-2) on Saturday afternoon when they host Wichita State (8-1) in Chicago. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Cardlytics reports that card-linked cash-back offers represent a strategic stocking stuffer for smart shoppers navigating the expensive holiday landscape. Click for more. Holiday spending hacks: How to unwrap savings without sacrificing festive cheerIn addition to its exceptional performance, the Samsung AI Black Diamond Heat Pump Washer-Dryer is designed with user convenience in mind. The large capacity drum allows you to do more laundry in fewer cycles, saving you time and effort. The intuitive control panel and smartphone connectivity enable remote monitoring and control of the appliance, giving you the flexibility to manage your laundry even when you're not at home.As the community rejoices in the safe return of the missing student, there is also a sense of reflection on the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. The incident serves as a reminder to stay connected, look out for one another, and always be there to lend a helping hand in times of need.wild casino promotions

Cancer Gene Therapy Market Poised for Significant Growth, Projected to Reach USD 3,142.2 Million by 2034 at a 5.6% of CAGR 12-13-2024 07:03 PM CET | Health & Medicine Press release from: Future Market Insights Cancer Gene Therapy Market The global market for cancer gene therapy is expected to see substantial growth in the coming decade. Estimated at USD 1,822.2 million in 2024, the market is forecast to expand to USD 3,142.2 million by 2034, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6%. This growth is driven by increasing demand for more targeted and personalized cancer treatments, as well as advancements in genetic therapies. Notably, oncolytic virotherapy, which generated USD 850.7 million in 2023, is emerging as a key contributor to this market expansion. The cancer gene therapy market is largely fueled by the growing shift toward personalized medicines. Unlike traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, which are broad and less precise, gene therapy targets the genetic mutations responsible for cancer's development. This tailored approach minimizes damage to healthy cells, reducing side effects and enhancing the efficacy of treatment. The increased focus on targeted therapies and drugs further supports this trend, with gene therapy offering new hope for patients by addressing cancer at its genetic root. The rising global prevalence of cancer, coupled with increased investment in clinical trials and research, has accelerated the development of gene therapies. Financial investments in clinical-phase gene therapy research are intensifying, with a surge in clinical trial protocols moving through Phase I, II, and III towards regulatory approval. This boost in research and development is laying the groundwork for future innovations in gene therapies and expanding treatment options for cancer patients worldwide. Key players in the gene therapy manufacturing industry are also investing in new technologies to streamline production and delivery. These investments, combined with the rapid pace of regulatory approvals, are catalyzing interest in gene therapies for cancer. As clinical trials continue to demonstrate the potential of these therapies, the cancer gene therapy market is poised for significant growth, offering promising treatment alternatives for patients and driving the next wave of cancer care innovation. Request a Sample Report Now to get Premium Insights: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-14971 Key Takeaways: The global cancer gene therapy market is expected to grow from USD 1.82 billion in 2024 to USD 3.14 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 5.6%. Personalized treatments and targeted therapies are driving the demand for cancer gene therapy. The market is seeing increased investment in research, clinical trials, and regulatory approvals. Oncolytic virotherapy is a key segment, having generated USD 850.7 million in 2023. Key Drivers of Market Growth Increased Demand for Personalized Medicine: The shift towards personalized treatment options is a significant factor driving the growth of the cancer gene therapy market. Gene therapy specifically targets the genetic alterations responsible for cancer, offering a more tailored approach compared to traditional therapies like chemotherapy and radiation, which can affect healthy cells and lead to higher toxicity and side effects. Rising Global Cancer Incidence: The increasing prevalence of cancer worldwide is propelling demand for innovative treatment solutions, including gene therapy. As cancer cases rise, the need for effective therapies that can address the complexities of the disease becomes critical. Advancements in Research and Development: There has been a notable increase in financial investments in clinical research focused on gene therapy. This has led to a rapid expansion of clinical trial protocols across various phases (I, II, and III), facilitating the path to regulatory approvals and market entry for new therapies. Technological Innovations: Continuous advancements in gene therapy techniques and delivery methods are enhancing the efficacy of treatments. Innovations such as improved vectors for gene delivery and novel therapeutic approaches are attracting interest from both researchers and healthcare providers. Competitive Landscape Substantial investments in the cancer gene therapy market are increasingly focused on collaboration and expansion to drive growth and strengthen market presence. Companies are prioritizing the acquisition of innovative technologies and products to enhance their offerings, while also pursuing strategic partnerships to expand their global footprint. Recent Industry Developments in Cancer Gene Therapy Market In June 2021, Eisai and Bristol Myers Squibb agreed to collaborate on the development and commercialization of Eisai's ADC, MORAb-202, for advanced solid malignancies. In June 2021, GSK and iTeos Therapeutics collaborated to develop EOS-448, an anti-TIGIT monoclonal antibody that had previously been approved in phase 1 for advanced solid malignancies. Key Players of Cancer Gene Therapy Industry Merck KGaA Novartis AG AstraZeneca Plc. BIOCAD Crinetics Pharmaceuticals, Inc. EffRx Pharmaceuticals S.A. Euroscreen S.A. Vicore Pharma AB Amgen Bristol-Myers Squibb Cell Genesys Inc. Adaptimmune Therapeutics plc. Achieve Life Science Inc. BioCanCell Ltd. Genelux Corporation Advantagene Inc. GenVec Inc. GlaxoSmithKline PLC Amgen Inc. Key Segments of Cancer Gene Therapy Industry By Therapy: In terms of therapy, the industry is divided into gene induced immunotherapy, oncolytic Virotherapy, gene transfer among others. By Indication: In terms of indication, the industry is segregated into breast cancer, ovarian cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer. By Service Provider: In terms of service provider, the industry is segregated into hospitals, clinical research laboratory, oncology institutes. By Region: Key countries of North America, Latin America, East Asia, South Asia & Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe and Middle East & Africa have been covered in the report. Explore FMI's Related Ongoing Coverage on Healthcare Market Insights Domain: Healthcare Regulatory Affairs Outsourcing Industry - https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/healthcare-regulatory-affairs-outsourcing-market Zika Virus Testing Industry - https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/zika-virus-testing-market Herpes Labialis Treatment Industry - https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/herpes-labialis-treatment-market About Future Market Insights (FMI) Future Market Insights, Inc. (ESOMAR certified, recipient of the Stevie Award, and a member of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce) offers profound insights into the driving factors that are boosting demand in the market. FMI stands as the leading global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, consulting, and events for the Packaging, Food and Beverage, Consumer Technology, Healthcare, Industrial, and Chemicals markets. With a vast team of over 400 analysts worldwide, FMI provides global, regional, and local expertise on diverse domains and industry trends across more than 110 countries. Contact Us: Future Market Insights Inc. Christiana Corporate, 200 Continental Drive, Suite 401, Newark, Delaware - 19713, USA T: +1-347-918-3531 For Sales Enquiries: sales@futuremarketinsights.com Website: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com LinkedIn| Twitter| Blogs | YouTube This release was published on openPR.



The case serves as a cautionary tale for companies of all sizes and industries, highlighting the importance of robust internal controls, regular audits, and thorough background checks for key financial positions. It also underscores the need for swift and transparent reporting of financial irregularities to prevent further losses and protect the interests of all stakeholders.

The recent revelation of another secret meeting at Goldman Sachs, one of the world's largest investment banks, has once again sparked speculation about the impending announcement of a second round of stimulus policies. The closed-door meeting, held shortly after the Economic Work Conference, has raised eyebrows and fueled rumors that a significant policy shift may be on the horizon.

Musk says US is demanding he pay penalty over disclosures of his Twitter stock purchases DETROIT (AP) — Elon Musk says the Securities and Exchange Commission wants him to pay a penalty or face charges involving what he disclosed — or failed to disclose — about his purchases of Twitter stock before he bought the social media platform in 2022. In a letter, Musk’s lawyer Alex Spiro tells the outgoing SEC chairman, Gary Gensler, that the commission’s demand for a monetary payment is a “misguided scheme” that won’t intimidate Musk. The letter also alleges that the commission reopened an investigation this week into Neuralink, Musk’s computer-to-human brain interface company. The SEC has not released the letter. Nor would it comment on it or confirm whether it has issued such a demand to Musk. Senate begins final push to expand Social Security benefits for millions of people WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate is pushing toward a vote on legislation that would provide full Social Security benefits to millions of people. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer began the process on Thursday for a final vote on the bill, known as the Social Security Fairness Act. It would eliminate policies that currently limit Social Security payouts for roughly 2.8 million people. The legislation has passed the House. The bill would add more strain on the Social Security Trust funds, which are already estimated to be unable to pay out full benefits beginning in 2035. The measure would add an estimated $195 billion to federal deficits over 10 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Trump offers support for dockworkers union by saying ports shouldn't install more automated systems WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump is offering his support for the dockworkers union before their contract expires next month at Eastern and Gulf Coast ports. He posted on social media Thursday that he met with union leaders and that any further “automation” of the ports would harm workers. He wrote that the “amount of money saved is nowhere near the distress, hurt, and harm it causes for American Workers.” The International Longshoremen’s Association has until Jan. 15 to negotiate a new contract with the U.S. Maritime Alliance, which represents ports and shipping companies. The Maritime Alliance says the technology will improve worker safety and strengthen our supply chains, among other things. IRS recovers $4.7 billion in back taxes and braces for cuts with Trump and GOP in power WASHINGTON (AP) — IRS leadership on Thursday announced that the agency has recovered $4.7 billion in back taxes and proceeds from a variety of crimes. The announcement comes under the backdrop of a promised reckoning from Republicans who will hold a majority over both chambers of the next Congress and have long called for rescinding the tens of billions of dollars in funding provided to the agency by Democrats. IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel said improvements made to the agency will help the incoming administration and new Republican majority congress achieve its goals of administering an extension of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. OpenAI's Altman will donate $1 million to Trump's inaugural fund LOS ANGELES (AP) — OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is planning to make a $1 million personal donation to President-Elect Donald Trump’s inauguration fund, joining a number of tech companies and executives who are working to improve their relationships the incoming administration. A spokesperson for OpenAI confirmed the move on Friday. The announcement comes one day after Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, said it donated $1 million to the same fund. Amazon also said it plans to donate $1 million. China signals it's prepared to double down on support for the economy as Trump tariffs loom BANGKOK (AP) — Chinese leaders met this week to plot economic policy for the coming year and sketched out plans to raise government spending and relax Beijing's monetary policy. Analysts said the broad-brush plans from the annual Central Economic Work Conference were more of a recap of current policy than ambitious new initiatives at a time when the outlook is clouded by the President-elect Donald Trump's threats to sharply raise tariffs once he takes office. The ruling Communist Party did commit to raising China's deficit and to doing more to encourage consumer spending by bringing wage increases in line with the pace of economic growth. Here's a look at China's main priorities and their potential implications. Stock market today: Wall Street wavers at the end of a bumpy week NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks wavered as Wall Street closes out a rare bumpy week. The S&P 500 was down 0.1% in midday trading Friday and headed for a weekly loss. The benchmark index hit its latest in a string of records a week ago. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 19 points. The Nasdaq composite was down 0.2%. Broadcom surged after the semiconductor company beat Wall Street’s profit targets and gave a glowing forecast, highlighting its artificial intelligence products. Treasury yields edged higher in the bond market. European markets were mostly lower and Asian markets mostly fell. Next Week: Retail sales, Fed policy update, existing home sales The Commerce Department releases its monthly snapshot of U.S. retail sales Tuesday. Federal Reserve officials wrap up a two-day meeting and issue an interest rate policy update Wednesday. The National Association of Realtors issues its latest update on U.S. home sales Thursday. From a 10-year-old to a Muppet to a president-elect, NYSE bell-ringers range from famous to obscure The first guest invited to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange in 1956 wasn’t a company executive, a politician or a celebrity. It was a 10-year-old boy, Leonard Ross, who received the honor by winning a television quiz show. Since then, business titans, political giants and global film stars have all been among those ringing the opening bell at the NYSE. Ronald Reagan rang the bell as president in 1985. Billionaire businessman and former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Hollywood star Robert Downey Jr. have also rung the bell. The even list includes famous Muppets: Miss Piggy was once a bell ringer. Some in seafood industry see Trump as fishermen's friend, but tariffs could make for pricier fish PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump is likely to bring big changes to seafood, one of the oldest sectors of the U.S. economy. Some in the industry believe the returning president will be more responsive to its needs. Economic analysts paint a more complicated picture, as they fear Trump’s pending trade hostilities with major trading partners Canada and China could make an already pricy kind of protein more expensive. Conservationists also fear Trump’s emphasis on deregulation could jeopardize fish stocks already in peril. But many in the commercial fishing and seafood processing industries said they expect Trump to allow fishing in protected areas and crack down on offshore wind expansion.

On the other hand, there are concerns about the potential side effects of prolonged monetary accommodation, including increased asset price volatility, rising debt levels, and distorted market signals. Policymakers must strike a delicate balance between supporting economic recovery and safeguarding financial stability to ensure sustainable long-term growth.

FC Barcelona has dominated football headlines once again, this time not for their on-field performance but for a different kind of achievement. The Catalan giants have managed to secure three out of the five spots in a list compiled by Real Madrid midfielder Isco. The list in question? The five toughest opponents Isco has faced in his professional career.SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — De'Vondre Campbell's decision to quit on his team in the middle of a game overshadowed the bigger issues for the San Francisco 49ers. An offense that was one of the most dynamic in the NFL during a run to the Super Bowl last season has been just ordinary for most of 2024 and was downright bad in a 12-6 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday night that just about ended San Francisco's playoff hopes. San Francisco (6-8) was held to its fewest yards (191) in a regular-season game in eight seasons under coach Kyle Shanahan and its fewest points since Shanahan's debut in 2017 on a rainy night that will be remembered mostly for Campbell walking off the field in the middle of the game with a towel draped over his head. The game also featured San Francisco going three-and-out on four drives as Brock Purdy struggled to connect with his receivers. Deebo Samuel dropped a potential touchdown pass after complaining earlier in the week about a lack of touches. Purdy then missed Ricky Pearsall on an underthrown deep shot in the fourth quarter before throwing an interception into the end zone that ended the Niners' comeback attempt. “I just feel like I had a lot of plays left out there that I could have made for our team,” Purdy said. “I thought the defense and special teams played so good. That’s what’s hurting me is I just feel like I failed the team. I could have been better for our offense and we could have put up more points.” Scoring has been an issue this season for the 49ers, who have been missing key playmakers like Christian McCaffrey and Brandon Aiyuk for much of the season. San Francisco is scoring 8.5 fewer points per game on offense than the Niners did through 14 games last season. Red-zone defense. After allowing touchdowns on 13 consecutive red-zone drives over the previous four games, the 49ers kept the Rams out of the end zone on all three drives that went inside the 20. Receivers. The 49ers failed to get much production from their wide receivers with Purdy going 6 for 20 for 63 yards with an INT and a 19.4 rating when targeting wideouts. Samuel had 16 yards on seven targets with the key drop. Jauan Jennings had two drops and was the target on the interception. Pearsall had one catch for 16 yards on four targets. LB Dre Greenlaw returned for the first time since tearing his left Achilles tendon in last season's Super Bowl. Greenlaw had eight tackles in the first half as he brought needed intensity and physical play that had been missing for much of the season. Campbell. The 49ers are deciding whether to waive or suspend Campbell, who lost his starting job when Greenlaw returned and then refused to play when he was needed. “His actions from the game just is not something you can do to your team or your teammates and still expect to be a part of our team,” Shanahan said. “We’re working through exactly the semantics of it right now, but we’ll handle the situation appropriately.” Greenlaw came out of the game feeling OK after leaving with soreness in his knee and Achilles tendon. He is day to day. ... S Ji’Ayir Brown (groin) and LB Dee Winters (neck) are also day to day. ... LT Trent Williams (ankle) is still trying to get back to play after missing the last four games. Shanahan said Williams' recovery has been "a lot slower than anticipated.” 0 — The Niners didn't reach the red zone once all game, with their deepest penetration into Rams territory being when they reached the 27 on a third-quarter field goal drive. This marked the first time since Week 11 in 2010 that the 49ers didn't run a single play inside the opponent's 25. The 49ers visit Miami on Dec. 22. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL

Liverpool shines in Champions League, dumping Real Madrid down the table. Dortmund rises to 4th

In conclusion, the shift towards moderate easing in monetary policy sends a clear signal about next year's economic outlook and the measures being taken to support recovery efforts. By adopting a prudent and flexible approach, central banks aim to navigate through uncertain times and lay the groundwork for a more resilient and inclusive economy in the future. As we embark on this journey of economic transformation, it is essential for policymakers, businesses, and individuals to adapt to the changing landscape and embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.It will be interesting to see how these contrasting approaches to club management play out in the coming seasons. While Manchester United opts for a more centralized decision-making model by eliminating the sporting director role, Arsenal seems to be moving towards a more collaborative and strategic approach by considering the recruitment of a seasoned professional like Dan Ashworth.The surge in second-hand housing transactions in Beijing can be attributed to a combination of various factors. One key factor is the continued strong demand for housing in the city. Despite government efforts to cool the property market and curb speculation, Beijing remains an attractive destination for homebuyers due to its economic opportunities, well-developed infrastructure, and high-quality educational resources. This sustained demand has created a competitive market environment, leading to increased transaction activities in the second-hand housing sector.

Patients who had scheduled appointments, ongoing treatments, or surgical procedures at the hospital now face uncertainty and disruptions in their healthcare plans. The sudden closure of the hospital for renovation not only creates inconvenience for patients but also raises concerns about the continuity of care, patient safety, and access to specialized medical services during the renovation period.The Taiwan authorities have reiterated their commitment to defending the island's sovereignty and security against any external threats. With tensions escalating and the risk of miscalculation increasing, Taiwan has also called for restraint and peaceful dialogue to prevent any escalation of hostilities.

Lil Wayne, GloRilla, Camila Cabello to perform at College Football National Championship

 

wild casino 50

2025-01-12
wild casino sign up bonus
wild casino sign up bonus Zuo the Monkey, a renowned social media influencer and content creator, sat down for an exclusive one-minute interview to discuss his latest hair makeover and the hilarious moniker "Zuo the Monkey." With eight hundred emoticons at his disposal, Zuo effortlessly conveyed his satisfaction and excitement over his new hairstyle in a language that transcends words.

Elon Musk’s preschool is the next step in his anti-woke education dreamsGRAND FORKS – Several Lutheran churches in the area are joining together to present two events leading up to the celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday. A concert, titled “Lift Every Voice: A Celebration of Sacred Choral Music,” is set for 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24, at Calvary Lutheran Church, 1405 S. Ninth St. ADVERTISEMENT A special combined worship service is planned for 6 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 26, at Sharon Lutheran Church, 1720 20th St. S. (See below for details.) The public is welcome to attend. Sunday’s concert, organized by Whitney Berry, choir director at Calvary Lutheran Church, will feature the choirs of Calvary, Sharon and United Lutheran churches in Grand Forks and Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in East Grand Forks – altogether, about 80 singers. The concert was scheduled close to Thanksgiving Day to raise money for a hunger-related charity, Berry said. A free will offering will be collected to benefit St. Joseph’s Social Care food pantry and summer lunch program. The performance will feature music that is sacred in nature and represents a variety of styles. Each church choir has selected two or three anthems from their repertoire, she said. After each choir performs, the audience will be asked to join in singing a hymn together. At the close of the concert, all choirs will join together as a mass choir to sing an arrangement of “When In Our Music God is Glorified,” Berry said. Melanie Popejoy will conduct the mass choir, which will be accompanied by the UND Prairie Rose Brass Quintet, a group of student musicians. Popejoy and Berry are teaching associate professors of music at UND. The idea for a joint concert sprang from earlier experience when Berry and fellow church choir directors held this type of concert at Messiah Lutheran in Fargo in 2018 and another one at Calvary Lutheran in Bemidji the following year. A third was planned for Grand Forks in 2020 but was tabled due to the pandemic and further efforts to host a concert were stymied for various reasons, Berry said. ADVERTISEMENT “The idea for this concert came out of a desire to host a similar event but with choirs from Grand Forks to make the logistics easier,” she said. With Sunday’s concert, “We are hoping to get a nice-sized audience for this event and hopefully raise some money for a great cause,” she said. “Church choirs are kind of isolated and don’t get opportunities to collaborate like this very often, so I am very excited to be able to do this.” A collaborative choir concert used to be a regular event here, senior members of her choir have told her, but Berry is unsure when it was last held. “If all goes well,” she said, “we may try to make it an annual tradition again.” Tuesday’s worship service Sharon, United and Calvary Lutheran churches have organized Tuesday’s worship service, which will take place at Sharon Lutheran, but other churches may also participate if they wish, said Deacon Jamie Travers of Sharon Lutheran. A “pie potluck” will follow the service. Those who wish to may bring a pie to share, Travers said. “The ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Churches in America) churches here in town are trying to do a little bit more things together,” he said, noting, as an example, the service and fellowship event in September at Town Square, which involved Sharon, United, Calvary, Augustana, St. Mark’s and University Lutheran, all ELCA churches. ADVERTISEMENT “After that event, this is another idea that popped up ... doing a Thanksgiving service together,” he said. “Because, usually, we have each done our own, either on Wednesday or Tuesday before Thanksgiving. And this year, someone just brought up the idea of doing it together.” Other ELCA churches already had services planned, but Sharon, United and Calvary hadn’t scheduled any yet, so they decided to offer a service together, he said. Tuesday’s worship service will feature a blend of traditional and contemporary music; the combined choir, representing the three churches, will be performing, Travers said. It will also include music by members of Sharon Lutheran Church’s handbell group. Ministers from all three churches will each have a role in the service, he said. The service, which will include the distribution of Holy Communion, will revolve around the thanksgiving theme. The churches’ pastors thought presenting a combined worship service “was something good to do,” Travers said. Collaboration of this kind is encouraged by the ELCA Eastern North Dakota Synod office. “I think there are hopes that this will become a yearly thing, possibly,” he said.In conclusion, Professor Ouyang Hui's insights offer a valuable corrective to the four common misconceptions surrounding the concept of "Trump 2.0." By challenging simplistic narratives and encouraging a more nuanced approach to understanding political phenomena, his analysis prompts us to question assumptions and delve deeper into the complexities of contemporary politics. As we navigate the evolving landscape of global governance, embracing a multifaceted perspective can lead to more informed and insightful discourse on the future of "Trump 2.0" and its implications for society at large.

In the final three weeks of 2024, as the echoes of 2004 reverberate in my mind, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the past, a sense of wonder for the present, and a sense of hope for the future. Let us embark on this journey together, as we continue to explore the boundless potential of technology to change our lives for the better.

One of the main reasons for this optimism is the belief that there is still great potential for growth and development in the real estate market. As urbanization continues to increase worldwide, the demand for housing, commercial properties, and infrastructure projects is expected to rise substantially. This presents a significant opportunity for real estate developers and construction companies to capitalize on the growing need for quality and affordable properties.MAGA Figures Turn on Elon Musk for Not Hating Immigrants EnoughAs the discussion around Huo and Liu's performances intensifies, the spotlight shifts to Zhu Fangyu and his decision-making. Will he come to regret letting go of a player as talented as Huo? Could Liu Chuanxing be the missing piece that the team needed all along? These questions linger in the minds of fans and analysts alike, sparking debates about the team's future prospects and potential lineup changes.

Amazon investing another $10 billion in Ohio-based data centers'This is outrageous!' Republicans furious as Biden official can't answer question

A new chapter in both technology and democracy began with the 2024 U.S. elections , raising questions about the impact of rapidly evolving Artificial Intelligence on campaign strategies, voter outreach, and electoral discourse. The impact of artificial intelligence was such that the way campaigns connect with the voters changed quite radically. AI-fueled advanced data analysis allowed political teams to look at enormous amounts of voter data with great precision. All these insights on demographics, voting history, and behavioral patterns helped make targeted campaigns addressing concerns and preferences specific to the individual voter. This natural language processing helped AI come up with messages for various groups. This enabled campaigns to respond to voters' questions with chatbots. This helped maintain informed and engaged supporters. The personalized outreach made relationships between voters and candidates stronger, and communication between a candidate and citizens became more efficient than it was before. Artificial intelligence changed how campaigns could reach voters. Predictive analytics assisted campaigns in finding swing voters and places that needed extra work. Algorithms were applied to areas based on voters' thoughts, ensuring that resources are utilized well. AI tools created eye-catching digital ads that changed messages based on the reactions of the viewers. Deep learning enabled them to monitor trends on social media and adjust campaign materials according to the same so they remained relevant and appealing. This adaptive approach ensured high returns on investments for the funds used in campaigns while keeping voters interested. Artificial intelligence made its presence felt in the minds of people during elections. Social media sites would suggest political content based on algorithms, thus shaping information for voters. This increased awareness of the issues also brought worries about echo chambers where algorithms would just repeat what people already believed rather than showing them alternative ideas. Generative AI tools created videos , images, and articles that blur what is real and what isn't. Most of the campaigns utilized the tools well, but they also helped spread misinformation. AI media's manipulation power had questions regarding ethics and stronger rules. Another important issue surfaced was election security, which involved artificial intelligence again. High-tech threat detection systems continuously monitor cyberattacks and other attempts to disrupt the voting process. It analyzed patterns in real time for possible vulnerabilities. Besides protecting the voting infrastructure, AI played a significant role in fighting misinformation by checking facts. AI helps find false claims and ensure voters have the right information. For this reason, people continued trusting the election process even as misinformation campaigns increased. The use of artificial intelligence also brought several ethical questions into the election process. The use of AI-based tools raised questions on whether the process was transparent or accountable. Voters were frequently unaware of how algorithms influenced their choices. It also raised questions over the privacy of data with respect to personal information that campaigns were gathering and then analyzing. As AI helped increase the efficiency of the campaigns, misuse rose. Policymakers and technologists learned to find a balance between innovation and ethics. The 2024 U.S. elections clearly portrayed how AI can change democracy for the better. These benefits brought many good things for the 2024 U.S. elections, but there are also some problems that may need more careful management in future elections as AI keeps changing. Policymakers, tech experts, and citizens must create rules to help use artificial intelligence ethically in elections. Technology should be there to help democracy, not hurt it, to ensure that there is openness, responsibility, and learning about voting. This is a very important moment in the history of democracy, as AI is now meeting politics. It will only make future elections more open, efficient, and safer than they have ever been if used wisely. Continuous discussions about its influence will determine the future of democratic machinery. Artificial intelligence has already marked its presence on the political landscape and is only just beginning to take part in shaping elections. If used ethically, AI will have the power to make voters stronger and strengthen democracy in the years ahead.

Perfect Corp. Teams Up with the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles Baseball Team to Bring AI-Generated Retro Baseball Player Photos to Fans

Bush's Christmas message touches on war, AI and her thoughts on seeing Monet's paintings Kate Bush has wished her fans a merry Christmas in a new message , in which she touches on war, developments in artificial intelligence (AI) and what she learned from seeing Monet’s paintings. RRAD MORE: Kate Bush – Rank The Albums In the lengthy message, she thanks fans for the support for her new short film, Little Shrew, a black-and-white animation she wrote and directed in aid of War Child. “Little Shrew will be getting a bowl of especially delicious earthworms this Christmas morning,” she said. Bush also mused upon the current fraught political situation across the world but noted that she wanted her Christmas message to be one of positivity. “It’s been another year of exceptionally dark news. It just keeps getting worse, doesn’t it?” she wrote. “The wars keep raging. We helplessly stand and watch as those poor people are caught up in the horrors of it all and of course there are the children... “It’s hard not to focus on the worry we all feel about these conflicts and the massive changes that are happening around us, but I’d like to try to find something positive to say for this Christmas message:” Bush said that Christmas Eve was one of her favourite days of the year. “When I was a child, it used to have a special feeling,” she explained. “It even had a sort of Christmas Eve smell... a mixture of smoking coal fires and damp leaves, all bundled up in a drizzly English frozen fog. If I really work on it, I can still summon it up on the day. I’m working on it now...” She recalled seeing a new exhibition on Monet’s paintings and relating the French artist’s perception of industrialisation to modern anxieties around AI. “Is that us? Standing in awe at the dawn of AI, the symbol of modernity, as smog was for Monet at that time in the newly industrial London? Do we only see the twinkling light of the new invention, which so often catches the eye of our imagination... and what are those vague, dark sardonic shapes we can see in the background, behind the theatrical gauze?” she wrote. “It’s hard to make them out, but could they be our human pods, like those from the Matrix, being readied for us by eager, playful digits? Or maybe they are freshly painted bridges – robust, and lovingly built to carry us all into a much longed-for new age of healthy thinking? “All will be revealed when the smog begins to clear. “Merry Christmas everyone. I hope it’s a really joyful one for you all.” Earlier this month, Bush signed a petition speaking out against AI using artists’ work without permission. The campaign emerged earlier this year and states that “the unlicensed use of creative works for training generative AI is a major, unjust threat to the livelihoods of the people behind those works, and must not be permitted”. The petition currently has 36,000 signatures and reads that, without government intervention, the practice creates “a major, unjust threat to the livelihoods of the people behind those works”. You can sign the petition and find out more here . In other news, Bush recently said that she has “lots of ideas” she wants to pursue now she is ready to create new material. “I’ve been caught up doing a lot of archive work over the last few years, redesigning our website, putting a lyric book together,” she explained. “And I’m very keen to start working on a new album when I’ve got this finished. I’ve got lots of ideas and I’m really looking forward to getting back into that creative space, it’s been a long time.” Asked if it was something she had been hoping to do for a while, Bush replied: “Yes it is, really. Particularly the last year, I’ve felt really ready to start doing something new.” Related Topics Christmas Kate Bush Pop"Sclerotic gerontocracy": Lawmaker's struggle with dementia revives criticism of elderly politiciansCanadian teenager Leylah Fernandez captured the hearts of fans with her extraordinary performance at the US Open, where she upset a series of top-seeded players en route to the final. Fernandez's fearless attitude, fighting spirit, and superb shot-making skills were on full display as she defeated the likes of Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber, and Elina Svitolina on her remarkable run. Though she fell short in the final, her inspiring performance at Flushing Meadows marked her as a player to watch in the future and one of the standout performers of the 2021 season.

Furthermore, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for proper waste management and recycling infrastructure in order to prevent such environmental disasters from occurring in the future. It highlights the importance of education and awareness regarding the proper disposal and recycling of waste, as well as the need for stricter enforcement of environmental regulations to prevent harmful activities like burning plastic waste.

NEW YORK (AP) — A former top New York City police official admitted through his lawyer Friday that he had a sexual relationship with a subordinate, but denied her claims that he demanded sex in exchange for extra pay. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * NEW YORK (AP) — A former top New York City police official admitted through his lawyer Friday that he had a sexual relationship with a subordinate, but denied her claims that he demanded sex in exchange for extra pay. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? NEW YORK (AP) — A former top New York City police official admitted through his lawyer Friday that he had a sexual relationship with a subordinate, but denied her claims that he demanded sex in exchange for extra pay. Jeffrey Maddrey stood silently as his lawyer, Lambros Lambrou, addressed allegations that culminated in resignation a week ago as chief of department, the NYPD’s highest-ranking uniformed officer. Lambrou, speaking to reporters at his Manhattan law office, said that the 33-year NYPD veteran had a “consensual, adult relationship” with Lt. Quathisha Epps and had no authority to sign off on overtime pay. “Lt Epps got caught with her hand in the cookie jar and is trying to deflect her wrong doing by making these allegations against Chief Maddrey,” Lambrou said. Epps raised allegations against Maddrey last weekend in a complaint she filed against the city with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. In it, she claimed Maddrey engaged in “quid pro quo sexual harassment” by coercing her to “perform unwanted sexual favors in exchange for overtime opportunities in the workplace.” Epps, who held an administrative post in Maddrey’s office, was the NYPD’s top earner in fiscal year 2024, according to payroll data, pulling in more than $400,000 — more than half of it in overtime pay. Epps contends that when she finally pushed back at Maddrey’s demands, he retaliated by claiming she was abusing overtime, prompting the department to launch a review. Lambrou said Friday that the timing didn’t add up because Epps was already under investigation before she filed her complaint. Epps’ lawyer, Eric Sanders, said Lambrou’s admission that Maddrey had a sexual relationship with Epps undercut a previous statement denying “every aspect” of the allegations. “We have a treasure trove of digital data that will hopefully bring this degenerate to justice,” Sanders said. Maddrey, a close ally of mayor and former police captain Eric Adams, joined the NYPD in 1991 and rose through the ranks to become chief of patrol in 2021. Last year, Maddrey was promoted to chief of department despite a history of internal disciplinary issues, including an allegation that he lied to investigators about an affair with another subordinate. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch accepted Maddrey’s resignation on Dec. 20, effective immediately. She appointed John Chell, the former chief of patrol, to the position on an interim basis. The NYPD has declined to comment on the allegations against Maddrey other than to say it “takes all allegations of sexual misconduct seriously and will thoroughly investigate this matter.” Maddrey’s resignation follows months of scandal and leadership turnover at the NYPD, the nation’s largest police department. In September, Commissioner Edward Caban resigned after federal agents searched his home as part of a wide-ranging inquiry into members of Adams’ inner circle. Soon after, Timothy Pearson, another Adams adviser with wide latitude over the NYPD, resigned after investigators seized devices and cash from his home. He has also been accused of sexual harassment by multiple colleagues. Neither Pearson nor Caban have been criminally charged, and both have denied wrongdoing. Advertisement Advertisement

 

wild casino chipy

2025-01-13
Bionomics Reminds Shareholders to Cast their Vote for Re-Domiciliation from Australia to the United StatesOver 138.34 crore Aadhaar numbers generated, DigiLocker crosses 37 crore users: Centrewild casino sign up bonus code

The hunt for UnitedHealthcare CEO's elusive killer yields new evidence, but few answers

None

Canadians face a fresh wave of scams as fraudsters seize on the Canada Post strike to try to trick victims out of their cash. The last few weeks have seen an “exponential” rise in attempted fraud, ranging from phishing emails to deepfake phone calls, says Octavia Howell, chief information security officer at Equifax Canada. “Any time there is a major political event, a major strike or anything like that, we’ll see an uptick,” she said in a phone interview. “Not only is there a Canada post strike ... it’s the holidays.” Scams related to parcels and deliveries typically tick up in step with online shopping orders this time of year, but the work stoppage at Canada Post has led to even more fraud attempts amid the confusion around shipments, Howell said. Comprehensive figures on the latest batch of scams are not yet available from Equifax Canada, but the credit bureau’s daily updates have marked the rise nonetheless. Rather than the roughly half-dozen daily consumer fraud reports of previous increases, Equifax Canada’s investigations team is filing up to “87 in one report in one day coming from the same IP addresses,” said Howell. She called the trend “insidious.” “We’re seeing exponential growth in the amount of scams that are actually happening ... because, one, holidays, and then two, people aren’t able to get their shipments out.” Mail carriers walked off the job on Nov. 15, halting deliveries of letters and packages at the start of the holiday shipping season. Canada Post cautions users that it never reaches out about a delivery via text or email unless it has been requested to. The Crown corporation has asked Canadians to be on guard for telltale signs of a phishing scam or fraud attempt, including poor grammar, imagery inconsistent with Canada Post logos and a tracking number at odds with its standard format. The Better Business Bureau similarly cautioned users when the strike kicked off. “Watch out for fake package delivery offers during Canada’s postal strike,” the non-profit said in a release last month. It advised potential victims to verify delivery services, avoid unsolicited shipment offers from little-known companies and check for accreditation by the bureau before selecting a service. It also noted that scammers may send false messages claiming to be from Canada Post or another carrier asking for payment for undelivered items or offering “priority service.” “Do not click on links in unsolicited emails or texts. Instead, visit the official website of the courier service for updates,” the bureau said. Canada Post recommends customers contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre if they receive a suspicious email, text or call related to the postal service.NEW YORK (AP) — The S&P 500 is on track to close 2024 with a gain of nearly 27%, after setting 50 record highs this year. That’s on top of its 24.2% spurt the year before, a spectacular two-year run unmatched since the dot-com boom. This time around, it’s not dot-com stocks boosting the market but skyrocketing prices for companies in the artificial-intelligence business. Nvidia, for example, has more than doubled in value after surging over three times in 2023 because its chips are powering much of the move into AI. Super Micro Computer, which makes servers used in AI and other computing, has jumped nearly 48% this year after more than tripling last year. The economy, meanwhile, isn’t far removed from its last recession, which struck with the COVID-19 pandemic. But perhaps more importantly, it’s so far avoided a recession that many on Wall Street worried was inevitable after the Federal Reserve hiked its main interest rate to a two-decade high in hopes of slowing the economy to beat high inflation. So what happened to stocks after that fantastic two-year run in 1998? The market rose again in 1999, by 19.5%, as the economy kept growing and the dot-com bubble inflated. Many voices on Wall Street say the stock market could keep rising in 2025 too, though likely not to the same degree. The economy is still growing, and the Federal Reserve appears set to keep cutting interest rates to make things easier. That has Jason Draho, head of asset allocation, Americas, at UBS Global Wealth Management, forecasting the S&P 500 could end 2025 at 6,600, for example. That would be a roughly 9% rise from Monday’s close. But similar winning streaks have also come to a sudden end in the past, like after 1999. The S&P 500 ended up peaking in early 2000 before falling for several years as the dot-com bubble deflated and the economy fell into its 2001 recession. Like then, critics this time around are calling the stock market too expensive after prices climbed faster than companies’ profits. Plus, the S&P 500 hasn’t experienced a drawdown of at least 10% this year, and such “corrections” tend to happen every couple of years. Anthony Saglimbene, chief market strategist at Ameriprise, urges caution. “At the end of the day, there’s just too much optimism and not enough recognition of what could derail stock momentum for rational investors not to pump the brakes a bit,” Saglimbene said.President-elect Donald Trump once supported a US ban on TikTok. Then, during the 2024 presidential campaign, Trump said he would "save TikTok." His cabinet picks might indicate what position he'll ultimately take once in office. President-elect Donald Trump's views on whether TikTok, which a Chinese company owns, poses a threat to the United States have shifted 180 degrees. Will they come full circle? In April, lawmakers concerned about Chinese influence passed a law giving ByteDance, the Chinese owner of TikTok, a deadline of January 19 to sell its social media app to a non-Chinese company or face a nationwide ban. TikTok appealed, but on Friday, a federal court upheld the law , siding with the Biden administration's argument that the service poses a national security threat. In 2020, Trump unsuccessfully sought to ban TikTok in the United States but has since had a change of heart. During the 2024 campaign, Trump said young people would "go crazy without it." Trump's own TikTok accounts generated millions of views. Which side Trump ultimately lands on the issue could have a major impact on ByteDance and TikTok, which says it has over 170 million users in the United States. Even if the law is upheld after future appeals, Trump could choose not to enforce it during his presidency. Trump's closest advisors, however, might have something to say about that. Some of Trump's top cabinet nominees support a TikTok ban. Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida — Trump's nominee for secretary of state — called a ban a "win for America" earlier this year. Trump's pick for Federal Communications Commission chair, Brendan Carr, also advocated for a TikTok ban in Project 2025, a road map for the first 180 days of a new Republican presidency that the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, published in 2023. Carr wrote in the plan that TikTok is part of a Beijing "foreign influence campaign by determining the news and information that the app feeds to millions of Americans." Project 2025 refers to TikTok as "a tool of Chinese espionage" that is "highly addictive" and "especially popular with teenage girls." "The ties between TikTok and the Chinese government are not loose, and they are not coincidental," the document reads. John Ratcliffe, the former US director of national intelligence, is Trump's pick for CIA director. Ratcliffe, also an author of Project 2025, told Fox News in 2022 that he thinks TikTok is a "national security threat." Govs. Doug Burgum of North Dakota, Trump's pick for interior secretary, and Kristi Noem of South Dakota, the president-elect's choice for Homeland Security secretary, both previously banned the app from state-owned devices. TikTok has denied accusations that it influences content inside the United States or is addictive to children. A spokesperson for TikTok told Business Insider that the TikTok ban law was "conceived and pushed through based upon inaccurate, flawed and hypothetical information, resulting in outright censorship of the American people." "The Supreme Court has an established historical record of protecting Americans' right to free speech, and we expect they will do just that on this important constitutional issue," the spokesperson said.

Report recommends against sports betting kiosks

I'm A Celeb's Alan Halsall loses his temper with Dean McCullough as tensions boil over between the pair - after body language expert revealed Radio 1 host was close to QUITTING

AI continues to reshuffle power and energy markets with even oil giants like Exxon Mobil getting into the mix. Exxon announced this week that it’s planning to build a power plant for data centers, reflecting just how much electricity tech companies expect they’ll need in the coming decade. According to one estimate, nearly half of new AI data centers might not have enough power by 2027. The oil and gas company already operates power plants for its own operations, but the new project would be its first for outside customers. The planned power plant would run on natural gas and generate over 1.5 gigawatts. In a twist, Exxon said that it intends to capture and store over 90% of the carbon dioxide the plant produces. The company isn’t planning to connect the power plant to the grid, avoiding the interconnection backlog that has plagued many new power plants. In an annual strategy document published Wednesday, Exxon described the new project as “reliable, fully-islanded power with no reliance on grid infrastructure.” It did not say where the power plant would be located. Exxon did not reply to a request for comment before publication. The facility should be completed within the next five years, the company told The New York Times. That’s a shorter timeline than most nuclear power plants, which have caught the eye of energy-hungry tech firms. Most of those aren’t scheduled to come online until the early 2030s . But Exxon faces stiffer competition with renewables, which have proven quick to deploy and continue to drop in price. Google’s recently announced renewable energy investment, which including partners will total $20 billion, will start sending electrons to the grid in 2026. Microsoft is contributing to a $5 billion, 9-gigawatt renewable portfolio that has already made its first investment; the inaugural solar project is scheduled to come online six to nine months from now. Complicating matters for Exxon is the fact that carbon capture and storage (CCS) adds considerable cost to construction and operation of a fossil fuel power plant. So far, there are only a handful of power plants worldwide that capture some of their carbon pollution, according to the Global CCS Institute, and none of them run on natural gas. That may change given the tax credits available under the Inflation Reduction Act, which offer between $60 to $85 per metric ton of carbon captured and stored. Still, the technology has some kinks to work out at the commercial scale. Some have hit their targets, while others have fallen far short. One long-running CCS facility in Canada promised to capture 90% of the carbon dioxide from a small coal plant, yet after nearly a decade in operation, it managed to capture just under 60%, according to the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis.

Target Corp. stock underperforms Monday when compared to competitors

THREE KEY FACTS The world has been said to be in a “polycrisis” across multiple domains: environmental, economic, geopolitical, societal and technological. Swearing has been shown to be cathartic. Children will learn new words more quickly if they’re symbolic and tend to learn symbolic words at a younger age I recently stood on my 7-year-old’s leg, and though it was an accident, he was understandably pissed. I tried to comfort him but he pushed me away and, through the tears, yelled: “You’re a huge dick!” Before we’d had children, I’d told my wife I was going to normalise swearing around them. I’d said it in part because I like to provoke, but also because I thought it might be the right thing to do, or at least not obviously wrong, and because I felt (and feel) obliged to rebel against the all-pervasive right-on, modern “research-backed” parenting industrial complex , because if there’s one thing I know about kids, it’s that nothing is more resistant to research. Anyway, none of this matters because my wife forbade me from normalising swearing, which would have been fine, except they chose to normalise it for themselves.

Cronos Group Inc. stock rises Friday, still underperforms market

Drake eases by Stetson 49-10 to secure a second straight outright Pioneer Football League title

Three long days of counting in the General Election finished late on Monday night when the final two seats were declared in the constituency of Cavan-Monaghan. Fianna Fail was the clear winner of the election, securing 48 of the Dail parliament’s 174 seats. Sinn Fein took 39 and Fine Gael 38. Labour and the Social Democrats both won 11 seats; People Before Profit-Solidarity took three; Aontu secured two; and the Green Party retained only one of its 12 seats. Independents and others accounted for 21 seats. The return of a Fianna Fail/Fine Gael-led coalition is now highly likely. However, their combined seat total of 86 leaves them just short of the 88 needed for a majority in the Dail. While the two centrist parties that have dominated Irish politics for a century could look to strike a deal with one of the Dail’s smaller centre-left parties, such as the Social Democrats or Labour, a more straightforward route to a majority could be achieved by securing the support of several independent TDs. For Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and current taoiseach and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris, wooing like-minded independents would be likely to involve fewer policy concessions, and financial commitments, than would be required to convince another party to join the government benches. Longford-Westmeath independent TD Kevin “Boxer” Moran, who served in a Fine Gael-led minority government between 2017 and 2020, expressed his willingness to listen to offers to join the new coalition in Dublin. “Look, my door’s open,” he told RTE. “Someone knocks, I’m always there to open it.” Marian Harkin, an independent TD for Sligo-Leitrim, expressed her desire to participate in government as she noted that Fianna Fail and Fine Gael were within “shouting distance” of an overall majority. “That means they will be looking for support, and I certainly will be one of those people who will be speaking to them and talking to them and negotiating with them, and I’m looking forward to doing that, because that was the reason that I ran in the first place,” she said. Meanwhile, the Social Democrats and Irish Labour Party both appear cautious about the prospect of an alliance with Fianna Fail and Fine Gael. They will no doubt be mindful of the experience of the Green Party, the junior partner in the last mandate. The Greens experienced near wipeout in the election, retaining only one of their 12 seats. Sinn Fein appears to currently have no realistic route to government, given Fianna Fail and Fine Gael’s ongoing refusal to share power with the party. Despite the odds being stacked against her party, Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald contacted the leaders of the Social Democrats and Labour on Monday to discuss options. Earlier, Fianna Fail deputy leader and outgoing Finance Minister Jack Chambers predicted that a new coalition government would not be in place before Christmas. Mr Chambers said planned talks about forming an administration required “time and space” to ensure that any new government will be “coherent and stable”. After an inconclusive outcome to the 2020 election, it took five months for Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and the Greens to strike the last coalition deal. Mr Chambers said he did not believe it would take that long this time, as he noted the Covid-19 pandemic was a factor in 2020, but he also made clear it would not be a swift process. He said he agreed with analysis that there was no prospect of a deal before Christmas. “I don’t expect a government to be formed in mid-December, when the Dail is due to meet on December 18, probably a Ceann Comhairle (speaker) can be elected, and there’ll have to be time and space taken to make sure we can form a coherent, stable government,” he told RTE. “I don’t think it should take five months like it did the last time – Covid obviously complicated that. But I think all political parties need to take the time to see what’s possible and try and form a stable government for the Irish people.” Fine Gael minister of state Peter Burke said members of his parliamentary party would have to meet to consider their options before giving Mr Harris a mandate to negotiate a new programme for government with Fianna Fail. “It’s important that we have a strong, stable, viable government, whatever form that may be, to ensure that we can meet the challenges of our society, meet the challenges in terms of the economic changes that are potentially going to happen,” he told RTE. Despite being set to emerge with the most seats, it has not been all good news for Fianna Fail. The party’s outgoing Health Minister Stephen Donnelly became one of the biggest casualties of the election when he lost his seat in Wicklow in the early hours of Monday morning. Mr Donnelly was always predicted to face a fight in the constituency after boundary changes saw it reduced from five to four seats. If it is to be a reprise of the Fianna Fail/Fine Gael governing partnership of the last mandate, one of the major questions is around the position of taoiseach and whether the parties will once again take turns to hold the Irish premiership during the lifetime of the new government. The outcome in 2020 saw the parties enter a coalition on the basis that the holder of the premier position would be exchanged midway through the term. Fianna Fail leader Mr Martin took the role for the first half of the mandate, with Leo Varadkar taking over in December 2022. Current Fine Gael leader Mr Harris succeeded Mr Varadkar as taoiseach when he resigned from the role earlier this year. However, this time Fianna Fail has significantly increased its seat lead over Fine Gael, compared with the last election when there were only three seats between the parties. The size of the disparity in party numbers is likely to draw focus on the rotating taoiseach arrangement, raising questions as to whether it will be re-run in the next coalition and, if it is, on what terms. On Sunday, Simon Coveney, a former deputy leader of Fine Gael, said a coalition that did not repeat the rotating taoiseach arrangement in some fashion would be a “difficult proposition” for his party. Meanwhile, Fine Gael minister Paschal Donohoe said he would be making the case for Mr Harris to have another opportunity to serve as taoiseach. On Monday, Mr Chambers said while his party would expect to lead the government it would approach the issue of rotating the taoiseach’s role on the basis of “mutual respect” with Fine Gael. “I think the context of discussions and negotiations will be driven by mutual respect, and that’s the glue that will drive a programme for government and that’s the context in which we’ll engage,” he said. On Monday, Labour leader Ivana Bacik reiterated her party’s determination to forge an alliance with fellow centre-left parties with the intention of having a unified approach to the prospect of entering government. Asked if Labour was prepared to go into government with Fianna Fail and Fine Gael on its own, she told RTE: “No, not at this stage. We are absolutely not willing to do that. “We want to ensure there’s the largest number of TDs who share our vision and our values who want to deliver change on the same basis that we do.” The Social Democrats have been non-committal about any potential arrangement with Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, and have restated a series of red lines they would need to achieve before considering taking a place in government. Leader Holly Cairns, who gave birth to a daughter on polling day on Friday, said in a statement: “The party is in a very strong position to play an important role in the next Dail. In what position, government or opposition, remains to be seen.” Fianna Fail secured the most first preference votes in Friday’s proportional representation election, taking 21.9% to Fine Gael’s 20.8%. Sinn Fein came in third on 19%. While Sinn Fein’s vote share represented a marked improvement on its disappointing showing in June’s local elections in Ireland, it is still significantly down on the 24.5% poll-topping share it secured in the 2020 general election. The final breakdown of first preferences also flipped the result of Friday night’s exit poll, which suggested Sinn Fein was in front on 21.1%, with Fine Gael on 21% and Fianna Fail on 19.5%.Stop interfering with independent institutions, treasurerHow metals can help construct more sustainable cities around the worldWASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump said Saturday that he will nominate former White House aide Brooke Rollins to be his agriculture secretary, the last of his picks to lead executive agencies and another choice from within his established circle of advisers and allies. The nomination must be confirmed by the Senate, which will be controlled by Republicans when Trump takes office Jan. 20. Rollins would succeed Tom Vilsack , President Joe Biden’s agriculture secretary who oversees the sprawling agency that controls policies, regulations and aid programs related to farming, forestry, ranching, food quality and nutrition. Then-President Donald Trump looks to Brooke Rollins, president and CEO of the Texas Public Policy Foundation, as she speaks during a Jan. 11, 2018, prison reform roundtable in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington. Carolyn Kaster, Associated Press Rollins, who graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agricultural development, is a longtime Trump associate who served as White House domestic policy chief during his first presidency. The 52-year-old is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for a second Trump administration. Rollins previously served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and ran a think tank, the Texas Public Policy Foundation. The pick completes Trump’s selection of the heads of executive branch departments, just two and a half weeks after the former president won the White House once again. Several other picks that are traditionally Cabinet-level remain, including U.S. Trade Representative and head of the small business administration. Brooke Rollins, assistant to the president and director of the Domestic Policy Council at the time, speaks during a May 18, 2020, meeting with restaurant industry executives about the coronavirus response in the State Dining Room of the White House in Washington. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts Rollins, speaking on the Christian talk show “Family Talk" earlier this year, said Trump was an “amazing boss” and confessed that she thought in 2015, during his first presidential campaign, that he would not last as a candidate in a crowded Republican primary field. “I was the person that said, ‘Oh, Donald Trump is not going to go more than two or three weeks in the Republican primary. This is to up his TV show ratings. And then we’ll get back to normal,’” she said. “Fast forward a couple of years, and I am running his domestic policy agenda.” Trump didn’t offer many specifics about his agriculture policies during the campaign, but farmers could be affected if he carries out his pledge to impose widespread tariffs. During the first Trump administration, countries like China responded to Trump’s tariffs by imposing retaliatory tariffs on U.S. exports like the corn and soybeans routinely sold overseas. Trump countered by offering massive multibillion-dollar aid to farmers to help them weather the trade war. President Abraham Lincoln founded the USDA in 1862, when about half of all Americans lived on farms. The USDA oversees multiple support programs for farmers; animal and plant health; and the safety of meat, poultry and eggs that anchor the nation’s food supply. Its federal nutrition programs provide food to low-income people, pregnant women and young children. And the agency sets standards for school meals. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s nominee to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, has vowed to strip ultraprocessed foods from school lunches and to stop allowing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program beneficiaries from using food stamps to buy soda, candy or other so-called junk foods. But it would be the USDA, not HHS, that would be responsible for enacting those changes. In addition, HHS and USDA will work together to finalize the 2025-2030 edition of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. They are due late next year, with guidance for healthy diets and standards for federal nutrition programs. Gomez Licon reported from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Associated Press writers Josh Funk and JoNel Aleccia contributed to this report. Among President-elect Donald Trump's picks are Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio for secretary of state, former Democratic House member Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence and Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Susie Wiles, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Trump named Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to be secretary of state, making a former sharp critic his choice to be the new administration's top diplomat. Rubio, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate on the Republican ticket last summer. Rubio is the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries,” Trump said of Rubio in a statement. The announcement punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator called a “con man" during his unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. And as Trump campaigned for the presidency a third time, Rubio cheered his proposals. For instance, Rubio, who more than a decade ago helped craft immigration legislation that included a path to citizenship for people in the U.S. illegally, now supports Trump's plan to use the U.S. military for mass deportations. Wilfredo Lee, Associated Press Pete Hegseth, 44, is a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has been a contributor with the network since 2014, where he developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. If confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit the top job during a series of global crises — ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing attacks in the Middle East by Iranian proxies to the push for a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah and escalating worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea. Hegseth is also the author of “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” published earlier this year. George Walker IV, Associated Press Trump tapped Pam Bondi, 59, to be attorney general after U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. She was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She also was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist, she served as part of a Trump-allied outside group that helped lay the groundwork for his future administration called the America First Policy Institute. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appears on Fox News and has been a critic of the criminal cases against him. Derik Hamilton Trump picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a well-known conservative who faced sharp criticism for telling a story in her memoir about shooting a rambunctious dog, to lead an agency crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda. Noem used her two terms leading a tiny state to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. South Dakota is usually a political afterthought. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions that other states had issued and instead declared her state “open for business.” Trump held a fireworks rally at Mount Rushmore in July 2020 in one of the first large gatherings of the pandemic. She takes over a department with a sprawling mission. In addition to key immigration agencies, the Department of Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service, and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. Matt Rourke, Associated Press The governor of North Dakota, who was once little-known outside his state, Burgum is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump, and spent months traveling to drum up support for him, after dropping out of the race. Burgum was a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice this summer. The two-term governor was seen as a possible pick because of his executive experience and business savvy. Burgum also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump made the announcement about Burgum joining his incoming administration while addressing a gala at his Mar-a-Lago club, and said a formal statement would be coming the following day. In comments to reporters before Trump took the stage, Burgum said that, in recent years, the power grid is deteriorating in many parts of the country, which he said could raise national security concerns but also drive up prices enough to increase inflation. “There's just a sense of urgency, and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration,” Burgum said. AP Photo/Alex Brandon Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran for president as a Democrat, than as an independent, and then endorsed Trump . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert Kennedy, who was assassinated during his own presidential campaign. The nomination of Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services alarmed people who are concerned about his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Scott Bessent, 62, is a former George Soros money manager and an advocate for deficit reduction. He's the founder of hedge fund Key Square Capital Management, after having worked on-and-off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. “This election cycle is the last chance for the U.S. to grow our way out of this mountain of debt without becoming a sort of European-style socialist democracy,” he said then. Matt Kelley, Associated Press Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her reelection bid this month, but received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, she would oversee the Labor Department’s workforce, its budget and put forth priorities that impact workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and would add penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws that allow employees in more than half the states to avoid participating in or paying dues to unions that represent workers at their places of employment. Andrew Harnik, Associated Press Scott Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Andrew Harnik, Associated Press Sean Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. Jacquelyn Martin, Associated Press A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Write is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. Wright also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. Wright also won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and adviser who played a key role on energy issues in Trump’s first term. Andy Cross, The Denver Post via AP President-elect Donald Trump tapped billionaire professional wrestling mogul Linda McMahon to be secretary of the Education Department, tasked with overseeing an agency Trump promised to dismantle. McMahon led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s initial term from 2017 to 2019 and twice ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. She’s seen as a relative unknown in education circles, though she expressed support for charter schools and school choice. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Manuel Balce Ceneta, Associated Press Brooke Rollins, who graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agricultural development, is a longtime Trump associate who served as White House domestic policy chief during his first presidency. The 52-year-old is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for a second Trump administration. She previously served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and ran a think tank, the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Evan Vucci Trump chose Howard Lutnick, head of brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, as his nominee for commerce secretary, a position in which he'd have a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. Trump made the announcement Tuesday on his social media platform, Truth Social. Lutnick is a co-chair of Trump’s transition team, along with Linda McMahon, the former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration. Both are tasked with putting forward candidates for key roles in the next administration. The nomination would put Lutnick in charge of a sprawling Cabinet agency that is involved in funding new computer chip factories, imposing trade restrictions, releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. It is also a position in which connections to CEOs and the wider business community are crucial. AP Photo/Evan Vucci Doug Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial, which centered on U.S. assistance for Ukraine. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential nomination, but he was acquitted by the Senate. Collins has also served in the armed forces himself and is currently a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. "We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need," Trump said in a statement about nominating Collins to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. John Bazemore, Associated Press Karoline Leavitt, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. The White House press secretary typically serves as the public face of the administration and historically has held daily briefings for the press corps. Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, was a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, before joining his 2024 campaign. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term before she became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's choice for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Ted Shaffrey, Associated Press Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has been tapped by Trump to be director of national intelligence, keeping with the trend to stock his Cabinet with loyal personalities rather than veteran professionals in their requisite fields. Gabbard, 43, was a Democratic House member who unsuccessfully sought the party's 2020 presidential nomination before leaving the party in 2022. She endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him this fall. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community,” Trump said in a statement. Gabbard, who has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades, deploying to Iraq and Kuwait, would come to the role as somewhat of an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, was confirmed by the Senate in 2021 following several years in a number of top national security and intelligence positions. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Trump has picked John Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman who served as director of national intelligence during his first administration, to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency in his next. Ratcliffe was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump's first term, leading the U.S. government's spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. “I look forward to John being the first person ever to serve in both of our Nation's highest Intelligence positions,” Trump said in a statement, calling him a “fearless fighter for the Constitutional Rights of all Americans” who would ensure “the Highest Levels of National Security, and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” Manuel Balce Ceneta, Associated Press Trump has chosen former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin to serve as his pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency . Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on X , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI.” “We will do so while protecting access to clean air and water,” he added. During his campaign, Trump often attacked the Biden administration's promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referring to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often told his audiences during the campaign his administration would “Drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. In a statement, Trump said Zeldin “will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.” Matt Rourke, Associated Press Trump has named Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, as the new chairman of the agency tasked with regulating broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband. Carr is a longtime member of the commission and served previously as the FCC’s general counsel. He has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate three times and was nominated by both Trump and President Joe Biden to the commission. Carr made past appearances on “Fox News Channel," including when he decried Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' pre-Election Day appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He wrote an op-ed last month defending a satellite company owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk. Jonathan Newton - pool, ASSOCIATED PRESS Rep. Elise Stefanik is a representative from New York and one of Trump's staunchest defenders going back to his first impeachment. Elected to the House in 2014, Stefanik was selected by her GOP House colleagues as House Republican Conference chair in 2021, when former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after publicly criticizing Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik, 40, has served in that role ever since as the third-ranking member of House leadership. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. If confirmed, she would represent American interests at the U.N. as Trump vows to end the war waged by Russia against Ukraine begun in 2022. He has also called for peace as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in Gaza and its invasion of Lebanon to target Hezbollah. Jose Luis Magana, Associated Press President-elect Donald Trump says he's chosen former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker to serve as U.S. ambassador to NATO. Trump has expressed skepticism about the Western military alliance for years. Trump said in a statement Wednesday that Whitaker is “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot” who “will ensure the United States’ interests are advanced and defended” and “strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability.” The choice of Whitaker as the nation’s representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is an unusual one, given his background is as a lawyer and not in foreign policy. Andrew Harnik, Associated Press A Republican congressman from Michigan who served from 1993 to 2011, Hoekstra was ambassador to the Netherlands during Trump's first term. “In my Second Term, Pete will help me once again put AMERICA FIRST,” Trump said in a statement announcing his choice. “He did an outstanding job as United States Ambassador to the Netherlands during our first four years, and I am confident that he will continue to represent our Country well in this new role.” Paul Sancya, Associated Press Trump will nominate former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests as it wages wars against the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah. “He loves Israel, and likewise the people of Israel love him,” Trump said in a statement. “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Trump has been praised by some in this important Republican voting bloc for moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Oded Balilty, Associated Press Trump on Tuesday named real estate investor Steven Witkoff to be special envoy to the Middle East. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and was golfing with him at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Witkoff “is a Highly Respected Leader in Business and Philanthropy,” Trump said of Witkoff in a statement. “Steve will be an unrelenting Voice for PEACE, and make us all proud." Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Trump asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, to be his national security adviser, Trump announced in a statement Tuesday. The move puts Waltz in the middle of national security crises, ranging from efforts to provide weapons to Ukraine and worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea to the persistent attacks in the Middle East by Iran proxies and the push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah. “Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda,” Trump's statement said, "and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength!” Waltz is a three-term GOP congressman from east-central Florida. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and also worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Ted Shaffrey, Associated Press Stephen Miller, an immigration hardliner , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump's priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump's first administration. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump's policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation's economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people who are in the United States illegally. Since Trump left office in 2021, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization made up of former Trump advisers aimed at challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as free speech and national security. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Thomas Homan, 62, has been tasked with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. Homan, who served under Trump in his first administration leading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was widely expected to be offered a position related to the border, an issue Trump made central to his campaign. Though Homan has insisted such a massive undertaking would be humane, he has long been a loyal supporter of Trump's policy proposals, suggesting at a July conference in Washington that he would be willing to "run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen.” Democrats have criticized Homan for his defending Trump's “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings during his first administration, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. John Bazemore, Associated Press Dr. Mehmet Oz, 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime television talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz's bid for elected office. Matt Rourke, Associated Press Elon Musk, left, and Vivek Ramaswamy speak before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at an Oct. 27 campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. Trump on Tuesday said Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency" — which is not, despite the name, a government agency. The acronym “DOGE” is a nod to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency, dogecoin. Trump said Musk and Ramaswamy will work from outside the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance” and will partner with the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” He added the move would shock government systems. It's not clear how the organization will operate. Musk, owner of X and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Trump won the presidential election. Ramaswamy suspended his campaign in January and threw his support behind Trump. Trump said the two will “pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.” Evan Vucci, Associated Press photos Russell Vought held the position during Trump’s first presidency. After Trump’s initial term ended, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought was closely involved with Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that he tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Vought has also previously worked as the executive and budget director for the Republican Study Committee, a caucus for conservative House Republicans. He also worked at Heritage Action, the political group tied to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. Evan Vucci, Associated Press Dan Scavino, deputy chief of staff Scavino, whom Trump's transition referred to in a statement as one of “Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides,” was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 campaign, as well as his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino had run Trump's social media profile in the White House during his first administration. He was also held in contempt of Congress in 2022 after a month-long refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee’s investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. James Blair, deputy chief of staff Blair was political director for Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump's economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign this year, a driving force behind the candidate's “Trump can fix it” slogan and his query to audiences this fall if they were better off than four years ago. Taylor Budowich, deputy chief of staff Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump's 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Budowich also had served as a spokesman for Trump after his presidency. William McGinley, White House counsel McGinley was White House Cabinet secretary during Trump's first administration, and was outside legal counsel for the Republican National Committee's election integrity effort during the 2024 campaign. In a statement, Trump called McGinley “a smart and tenacious lawyer who will help me advance our America First agenda, while fighting for election integrity and against the weaponization of law enforcement.” Jose Luis Magana, Associated Press

 

is wild casino legal in texas

2025-01-13
wild casino sister sites
wild casino sister sites Sabonis' stellar performance not only earned him praise from fans and analysts but also propelled the Pacers to a crucial win, solidifying their position as the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference standings. As the team looks ahead to the playoffs, Sabonis' leadership and all-around contributions will be invaluable in their quest for postseason success.

In conclusion, the news of the six language-based programs participating in the Spring Festival Gala review process is a positive and welcome development. It represents a significant step toward greater diversity and inclusivity in one of China's most-watched television events. Let us all look forward to a Gala that truly celebrates the beauty and richness of all languages and cultures in China.Indonesia refuses to remove ban on iPhone 16 series; we need a ...., says industry minister

Following an intensive investigation, the individuals responsible for the young woman's "sheltering" have been apprehended and are now in police custody. This swift and decisive action sends a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated in our society.Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic’s magnificent seven grand slam finals

The power of social media cannot be underestimated in today's digital age. With just a few clicks, information – whether true or false – can be disseminated to millions of people within seconds. While this rapid dissemination of information can be advantageous in certain situations, it also poses serious risks when false information is spread without proper verification. In the case of Ms. B's alleged abduction, the unverified rumors circulating online have created a sense of chaos and fear among the public, leading to unnecessary panic and misinformation.

What the Options Market Tells Us About CME Gr

Arne Slot explains 'what will happen on Sunday' as Liverpool boss responds to two new injury worries

3. Implementing energy-saving measures: Improving energy efficiency in daily operations, transportation, and manufacturing processes can help reduce overall energy costs and lessen the impact of rising oil prices.Tyronn Lue, the former head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers and assistant coach for the Los Angeles Clippers, recently made headlines for turning down the head coaching position with the Los Angeles Lakers. The reason behind Lue's decision revolves around the lack of respect shown in the offer presented to him by the Lakers management.

- **Usage:** "I'm experiencing serious end-of-semester burnout. I just need to push through these last few days."Furthermore, the NPC companions in "Sworn" are designed to be active participants in the player's journey, offering valuable assistance, advice, and even combat support when needed. Rather than being mere spectators or burdensome tag-alongs, these companions contribute meaningfully to the player's progression through the game world, adding a strategic layer to gameplay and ensuring that their presence is felt and appreciated. By empowering the companions to be more than just passive observers, the developers of "Sworn" have reinforced their importance in the player's adventure, making them indispensable allies rather than disposable assets.As the release date draws near, fans of "Black Myth: Wukong" can look forward to embarking on a thrilling adventure filled with danger, discovery, and heroism. With its innovative gameplay mechanics, stunning visuals, and immersive world, the game is poised to captivate players and establish itself as a monumental achievement in the world of video games. Stay tuned for more updates and prepare to unleash your inner hero in the epic world of "Black Myth: Wukong."South Korea Launches Deep Probe into Emergency Martial Law Imposed by Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae with President at Center of Investigation

Ant and Dec blasted by I’m A Celebrity fans as they say ‘this is hard to watch’

In a recent development, Nvidia, a leading American technology company known for its graphics processing units (GPUs) and artificial intelligence products, has come under scrutiny in China for potentially violating the country's antitrust laws. The State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) has initiated an investigation into Nvidia's business practices, citing concerns over potential monopolistic behaviors and anticompetitive conduct.The announcement of the speech and press conference comes at a time of heightened market volatility and uncertainty, with investors closely monitoring developments in global financial markets. The prospect of a rate hike by the BOJ has the potential to have far-reaching implications for domestic and international markets, as it could signal a shift in global monetary policy dynamics.

NonePresident-elect Donald Trump has filled the key posts for his second term in office, prioritizing loyalty to him after he felt bruised and hampered by internal squabbling during his first term. Some of his choices could face difficult confirmation fights in the Senate, even with Republicans in control, and one candidate has already withdrawn from consideration. Former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz was Trump's initial pick for attorney general, but he ultimately withdrew following scrutiny over a federal sex trafficking investigation he was embroiled in. Here's a look at Trump's choices: Trump would turn a former critic into an ally as the nation's top diplomat. Rubio , 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate before the slot went to JD Vance. Rubio is vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. His selection punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator once called a “con man" during his own unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. Hegseth , 44, was a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox and Friends Weekend” and had been a contributor with the network since 2014. He developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth served in the Army National Guard from 2002 to 2021, deploying to Iraq in 2005 and Afghanistan in 2011 and earning two Bronze Stars. He lacks senior military and national security experience and would oversee global crises ranging from Europe to the Middle East. A woman told police that she was sexually assaulted in 2017 by Hegseth after he took her phone, blocked the door to a California hotel room and refused to let her leave, according to a detailed investigative report recently made public. Hegseth told police at the time that the encounter had been consensual and has denied any wrongdoing. Bessent , 62, is a former money manager for George Soros , a big Democratic donor, and an advocate for deficit reduction . He founded the hedge fund Key Square Capital Management after having worked on and off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, Bessent would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. Gabbard, 43, is a former Democratic House member from Hawaii who has been accused of echoing Russian propaganda. She unsuccessfully sought the party’s 2020 presidential nomination and left the party in 2022. Gabbard endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him. Gabbard has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades and deployed to Iraq and Kuwait. If confirmed she would come to the role as an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, spent several years in top national security and intelligence positions. Bondi , 59, was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist , Bondi also has served with the America First Policy Institute, a Trump-allied group that has helped lay the groundwork for his future administration. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush-money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appeared on Fox News and has been critical of the criminal cases against him. The Republican U.S. House member narrowly lost her reelection bid on Nov. 5 but had received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, Chavez-DeRemer would oversee the department's workforce and budget and put forth priorities that affect workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of a few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act that would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and penalize companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws in more than half the states. Lutnick heads the brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and is a cryptocurrency enthusiast. He is co-chair of Trump's transition operation, charged along with Linda McMahon, a former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration, with helping the president-elect fill key jobs in his second administration. As secretary, Lutnick would play a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. He would oversee a sprawling Cabinet department whose oversight ranges from funding new computer chip factories and imposing trade restrictions to releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. Noem is a well-known conservative who used her two terms as South Dakota's governor to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions like other states, instead declaring South Dakota “open for business.” More recently, Noem faced sharp criticism for writing in her memoir about shooting and killing her dog. She is set to lead a department crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda as well as other missions. Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. Ratcliffe , a former U.S. House member from Texas, was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump’s first term. He led U.S. government’s spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. If confirmed, Ratcliffe will have held the highest intelligence positions in the U.S. Kennedy , 70, ran for president as a Democrat, then as an independent before he dropped out and then endorsed Trump . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1968 during his own presidential campaign. Kennedy's nomination alarmed people who are concerned about his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Rollins , 52, is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for Trump's second administration. She is a Texas attorney who was Trump's domestic policy adviser and director of his office of American innovation during his first term. Rollins previously was an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry , who also served in Trump's first term. Rollins also ran the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years , sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential campaign, but was acquitted by the Senate. Collins also served in the armed forces himself. He is a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. The North Dakota governor , 68, is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump after he dropped out of the running. Burgum then became a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice in part because of his executive experience and business savvy. He also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump said Burgum would chair a new National Energy Council and have a seat on the National Security Council, which would be a first for the Interior secretary. A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Wright is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. He also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. Wright said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. McMahon, a billionaire professional wrestling mogul , would make a return appearance in a second Trump administration. She led the Small Business Administration from 2017 to 2019 in Trump’s first term and twice ran unsuccessfully in Connecticut as a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University. She has expressed support for charter schools and school choice. Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on X , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI" and "we will do so while protecting access to clean air and water.” Trump often attacked the Biden administration’s promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referred to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often said his administration would “drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Greer is a partner at King & Spalding, a Washington law firm. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be responsible for negotiating directly with foreign governments on trade deals and disputes, as well as memberships in international trade bodies such as the World Trade Organization. He previously was chief of staff to Robert Lighthizer, who was the trade representative in Trump's first term. Wiles , 67, was a senior adviser to Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. She has a background in Florida politics , helping Ron DeSantis win his first race for Florida governor. Six years later, she was key to Trump’s defeat of him in the 2024 Republican primary. Wiles’ hire was Trump’s first major decision as president-elect and one that could be a defining test of his incoming administration considering her close relationship with him. Wiles is said to have earned Trump’s trust in part by guiding what was the most disciplined of Trump’s three presidential campaigns. Waltz is a three-term Republican congressman from east-central Florida. A former Army Green Beret , he served multiple tours in Afghanistan and worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Hassett, 62, is a major advocate of tax cuts who was chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers in the first Trump term. In the new role as chairman of the National Economic Council, Trump said Hassett will play an important role in helping American families recover from inflation as well as in renewing and improving tax cuts Trump enacted in 2017, many of which are set to expire after 2025. Homan, 62, has been tasked with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. He led the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Trump's first administration. Democrats have criticized Homan for defending Trump’s “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings in the first term, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. Vought, 48, held the position during Trump’s first presidency. He the founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought also was closely involved with Project 2025 , a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that Trump tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Miller, an immigration hardliner , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump’s priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump’s first term. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump’s policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation’s economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people living illegally in the U.S. Scavino was an adviser in all three of the president-elect's campaigns and was described by the transition team as one of “Trump’s longest serving and most trusted aides." He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino previously ran Trump’s social media profile in the White House. Blair was political director for Trump’s 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and an assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump’s economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign. Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump’s 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Leavitt , 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. McGinley was Cabinet secretary during Trump's first administration and was outside legal counsel for the Republican National Committee's election integrity effort during the 2024 campaign. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and they were golfing at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Kellogg , 80, is a highly decorated retired three-star general and one of the architects of a staunchly conservative policy book that lays out an “America First” national security agenda for Trump's second term. He has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues and served as national security adviser to Vice President Mike Pence . Kellogg also was chief of staff of the National Security Council under Trump and stepped in as an acting national security adviser for Trump after Michael Flynn resigned the post. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests. Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Huckabee has rejected a Palestinian homeland in territory occupied by Israel. His daughter, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, served as White House press secretary in Trump's first term. Stefanik, 40, is a U.S. representative from New York and one of Trump's staunchest defenders dating to his first impeachment trial. She was elected chair of the House Republican Conference in 2021, the third-highest position in House leadership, after then-Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after she publicly criticized Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. A former acting attorney general during Trump's first administration and tight end on the University of Iowa football team, Whitaker , 55, has a background in law enforcement but not in foreign policy. A fierce Trump localist, Whitaker, is also a former U.S. attorney in Iowa and served as acting attorney general between November 2018 and February 2019 without Senate confirmation, until William Barr was confirmed for the role. That was when special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation into Russian election interference was drawing to a close. Whitaker also faced questions about his past business dealings, including his ties to an invention-promotion company that was accused of misleading consumers. A Republican congressman from Michigan who served from 1993 to 2011, Hoekstra was ambassador to the Netherlands during Trump's first term. Oz , 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime TV talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz’s bid for elected office. Makary is a Johns Hopkins surgeon and author who argued against pandemic lockdowns. He routinely appeared on Fox News during the COVID-19 pandemic and wrote opinion articles questioning masks for children. He cast doubt on vaccine mandates but supported vaccines generally. Makary also cast doubt on whether booster shots worked, which was against federal recommendations on the vaccine. Nesheiwat is a general practitioner who serves as medical director for CityMD, a network of urgent care centers in New York and New Jersey. She has been a contributor on Fox News. Weldon is a former Florida congressman who recently ran for a Florida state legislative seat and lost; Trump backed Weldon’s opponent. In Congress, Weldon weighed in on one of the nation’s most heated debates of the 1990s over quality of life and a right-to-die and whether Terri Schiavo, who was in a persistent vegetative after cardiac arrest, state should have been allowed to have her feeding tube removed. He sided with the parents who did not want it removed. Bhattacharya , 56, is a critic of pandemic lockdowns and vaccine mandates. As head of the NIH, the leading medical research agency in the United States, Trump said Bhattacharya would work with Kennedy Jr. to direct U.S. medical research and make important discoveries that will improve health and save lives. Bhattacharya is professor at Stanford University School of Medicine and was one of three authors of the Great Barrington Declaration, an October 2020 open letter maintaining that lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic were causing irreparable harm. Gaetz, 42, withdrew from consideration to become the top law enforcement officer of the United States amid fallout over a federal sex trafficking investigation that cast doubt on his ability to be confirmed by the Senate. In choosing Gaetz, Trump had passed over more established lawyers whose names had been floated as possible contenders for the job. Gaetz resigned from Congress after Trump announced him on Nov. 13. The House Ethics Committee has been investigating an allegation that he paid for sex with a 17-year-old. Gaetz has denied wrongdoing. Associated Press writers Colleen Long, Zeke Miller, Farnoush Amiri, Lolita C. Baldor, Jill Colvin, Matthew Daly, Edith M. Lederer, Adriana Gomez Licon, Lisa Mascaro, Chris Megerian, Michelle L. Price, Will Weissert and Darlene Superville contributed to this report.

Stock market today: Stocks waver in thin trading after US markets reopen following a holiday pauseHaier's swift and decisive response to the layoff rumors demonstrates its commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and transparency in its operations. The company's proactive approach in addressing these rumors serves as a reminder of the importance of verifying information and distinguishing fact from fiction in today's fast-paced and interconnected world.The incident began when the designer, known for their innovative and inclusive designs, shared a photo on social media wearing a pin with the DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) symbol. While many praised the designer for their commitment to social justice and representation, some netizens took offense, accusing the designer of "performative allyship" and insensitivity towards marginalized communities.

 

wild casino affiliates

2025-01-13
Iridium Communications Inc. announced the service launch of Iridium Certus® GMDSS, a generational advancement in maritime satellite communication safety services. Iridium Certus GMDSS, the only truly global GMDSS service available, features distress alert, safety voice, and Maritime Safety Information (MSI); includes additional regulated services like Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) and Ship Security Alert System (SSAS), and provides the fastest weather-resilient broadband service available for conducting ships’ business when other systems are blocked or unavailable. This combination of capabilities creates a cost-efficient and performance advantage unmatched in the industry, making Iridium Certus GMDSS the ideal critical connectivity service needed for any ship’s hybrid network system. By adding Iridium GMDSS to the already powerful capabilities of Iridium Certus, mariners can now take advantage of the most robust communication and safety maritime solution on the market. Iridium Certus terminals now deliver GMDSS, LRIT, and SSAS capabilities through a single, versatile, and reliable antenna, giving fleets the ability to cut data costs and streamline their installed bridge unit equipment. Currently, the Lars Thrane LT-4200S has received its Marine Equipment Directive (MED) wheelmark, a critical certification milestone, and is available to the market, while other industry-leading equipment manufacturers such as Cobham Satcom, Intellian, and Thales are expected to introduce a combination of Iridium Certus 700 and 200 GMDSS solutions over the forthcoming months. As the only satellite GMDSS safety solution made available to every part of the world’s oceans, Iridium Certus GMDSS also provides both broadband and midband voice and data services, allowing mariners to tailor their communication needs to their specific situation. “We’re incredibly excited to provide mariners a ready-to-implement service that not only meets industry standards of required safety equipment, but streamlines their overall communications onboard,” said Matt Desch, CEO, Iridium. “As the maritime industry constantly experiences new challenges and desires new advancements in technology, Iridium will continue to develop dependable and robust solutions for the seafarer. With over 25 years of providing life-saving services, we’re proud to have a solution such as Iridium Certus GMDSS be on the forefront of that continuous innovation.” SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) class vessels are required by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to install GMDSS equipment on board. If a vessel experiences a distress situation, by simply pushing the red DISTRESS button on an Iridium GMDSS terminal, a Rescue Coordination Center (RCC) is automatically alerted of the vessel’s position, information and emergency. Within 30 seconds of receiving the distress call, the terminal automatically calls the RCC using Iridium Safety Voice, allowing crew to give swift and precise information to the RCC on their situation. The combination of GMDSS, LRIT and SSAS with companion services for Ku and Ka-band broadband systems into a single terminal delivers unprecedented safety and cost savings for a vessel’s hybrid communications system. Source: Iridium Communications Inc.Rape allegation against Jay-Z won’t impact NFL's relationship with music mogul, Goodell sayswild casino slots

As open enrollment for Affordable Care Act plans continues through Jan. 15, you’re likely seeing fewer social media ads promising monthly cash cards worth hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars that you can use for groceries, medical bills, rent and other expenses. But don’t worry. You haven’t missed out on any windfalls. Clicking on one of those ads would not have provided you with a cash card — at least not worth hundreds or thousands. But you might have found yourself switched to a health insurance plan you did not authorize, unable to afford treatment for an unforeseen medical emergency, and owing thousands of dollars to the IRS, according to an ongoing lawsuit against companies and individuals who plaintiffs say masterminded the ads and alleged scams committed against millions of people who responded to them. The absence of those once-ubiquitous ads are likely a result of the federal government suspending access to the ACA marketplace for two companies that market health insurance out of South Florida offices, amid accusations they used “fraudulent” ads to lure customers and then switched their insurance plans and agents without their knowledge. In its suspension letter, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) cited “credible allegations of misconduct” in the agency’s decision to suspend the abilities of two companies — TrueCoverage (doing business as Inshura) and BenefitAlign — to transact information with the marketplace. CMS licenses and monitors agencies that use their own websites and information technology platforms to enroll health insurance customers in ACA plans offered in the federal marketplace. The alleged scheme affected millions of consumers, according to a lawsuit winding its way through U.S. District Court in Fort Lauderdale that seeks class-action status. An amended version of the suit, filed in August, increased the number of defendants from six to 12: — TrueCoverage LLC, an Albuquerque, New Mexico-based health insurance agency with large offices in Miami, Miramar and Deerfield Beach. TrueCoverage is a sub-tenant of the South Florida Sun Sentinel in a building leased by the newspaper in Deerfield Beach. — Enhance Health LLC, a Sunrise-based health insurance agency that the lawsuit says was founded by Matthew Herman, also named as a defendant, with a $150 million investment from hedge fund Bain Capital’s insurance division. Bain Capital Insurance Fund LP is also a defendant. — Speridian Technologies LLC, accused in the lawsuit of establishing two direct enrollment platforms that provided TrueCoverage and other agencies access to the ACA marketplace. — Benefitalign LLC, identified in the suit as one of the direct enrollment platforms created by Speridian. Like Speridian and TrueCoverage, the company is based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. — Number One Prospecting LLC, doing business as Minerva Marketing, based in Fort Lauderdale, and its founder, Brandon Bowsky, accused of developing the social media ads that drove customers — or “leads” — to the health insurance agencies. — Digital Media Solutions LLC, doing business as Protect Health, a Miami-based agency that the suit says bought Minerva’s “fraudulent” ads. In September, the company filed for Chapter 11 protection from creditors in United States Bankruptcy Court in Texas, which automatically suspended claims filed against the company. — Net Health Affiliates Inc., an Aventura-based agency the lawsuit says was associated with Enhance Health and like it, bought leads from Minerva. — Garish Panicker, identified in the lawsuit as half-owner of Speridian Global Holdings and day-to-day controller of companies under its umbrella, including TrueCoverage, Benefitalign and Speridian Technologies. — Matthew Goldfuss, accused by the suit of overseeing and directing TrueCoverage’s ACA enrollment efforts. All of the defendants have filed motions to dismiss the lawsuit. The motions deny the allegations and argue that the plaintiffs failed to properly state their claims and lack the standing to file the complaints. The Sun Sentinel sent requests for comment and lists of questions about the cases to four separate law firms representing separate groups of defendants. Three of the law firms — one representing Brandon Bowsky and Number One Prospecting LLC d/b/a Minerva Marketing, and two others representing Net Health Affiliates Inc. and Bain Capital Insurance Fund — did not respond to the requests. A representative of Enhance Health LLC and Matthew Herman, Olga M. Vieira of the Miami-based firm Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan LLP, responded with a short message saying she was glad the newspaper knew a motion to dismiss the charges had been filed by the defendants. She also said that, “Enhance has denied all the allegations as reported previously in the media.” Catherine Riedel, a communications specialist representing TrueCoverage LLC, Benefitalign LLC, Speridian Technologies LLC, Girish Panicker and Matthew Goldfuss, issued the following statement: “TrueCoverage takes these allegations very seriously and is responding appropriately. While we cannot comment on ongoing litigation, we strongly believe that the allegations are baseless and without merit. “Compliance is our business. The TrueCoverage team records and reviews every call with a customer, including during Open Enrollment when roughly 500 agents handle nearly 30,000 calls a day. No customer is enrolled into any policy without a formal verbal consent given by the customer. If any customer calls in as a result of misleading content presented by third-party marketing vendors, agents are trained to correct such misinformation and action is taken against such third-party vendors.” Through Riedel, the defendants declined to answer follow-up questions, including whether the company remains in business, whether it continues to enroll Affordable Care Act clients, and whether it is still operating its New Mexico call center using another affiliated technology platform. The suspension notification from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services letter cites several factors, including the histories of noncompliance and previous suspensions. The letter noted suspicion that TrueCoverage and Benefitalign were storing consumers’ personally identifiable information in databases located in India and possibly other overseas locations in violation of the centers’ rules. The letter also notes allegations against the companies in the pending lawsuit that “they engaged in a variety of illegal practices, including violations of the (Racketeer Influenced & Corrupt Organizations, or RICO Act), misuse of consumer (personal identifiable information) and insurance fraud.” The amended lawsuit filed in August names as plaintiffs five individuals who say their insurance plans were changed and two agencies who say they lost money when they were replaced as agents. The lawsuit accuses the defendants of 55 counts of wrongdoing, ranging from running ads offering thousands of dollars in cash that they knew would never be provided directly to consumers, switching millions of consumers into different insurance policies without their authorization, misstating their household incomes to make them eligible for $0 premium coverage, and “stealing” commissions by switching the agents listed in their accounts. TrueCoverage, Enhance Health, Protect Health, and some of their associates “engaged in hundreds of thousands of agent-of-record swaps to steal other agents’ commissions,” the suit states. “Using the Benefitalign and Inshura platforms, they created large spreadsheet lists of consumer names, dates of birth and zip codes.” They provided those spreadsheets to agents, it says, and instructed them to access platforms linked to the ACA marketplace and change the customers’ agents of record “without telling the client or providing informed consent.” “In doing so, they immediately captured the monthly commissions of agents ... who had originally worked with the consumers directly to sign them up,” the lawsuit asserts. TrueCoverage employees who complained about dealing with prospects who called looking for cash cards were routinely chided by supervisors who told them to be vague and keep making money, the suit says. When the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services began contacting the company in January about customer complaints, the suit says TrueCoverage enrollment supervisor Matthew Goldfuss sent an email instructing agents “do not respond.” The lawsuit states the “scheme” was made possible in 2021 when Congress passed the American Rescue Plan Act in the wake of the COVID pandemic. The act made it possible for Americans with household incomes between 100% and 150% of the federal poverty level to pay zero in premiums and it enabled those consumers to enroll in ACA plans all year round, instead of during the three-month open enrollment period from November to January. Experienced health insurance brokers recognized the opportunity presented by the changes, the lawsuit says. More than 40 million Americans live within 100% and 150% of the federal poverty level, while only 15 million had ACA insurance at the time. The defendants developed or benefited from online ads, the lawsuit says, which falsely promised “hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars per month in cash benefits such as subsidy cards to pay for common expenses like rent, groceries, and gas.” Consumers who clicked on the ads were brought to a landing page that asked a few qualifying questions, and if their answers suggested that they might qualify for a low-cost or no-cost plan, they were provided a phone number to a health insurance agency. There was a major problem with the plan, according to the lawsuit. “Customers believe they are being routed to someone who will send them a free cash card, not enroll them in health insurance.” By law, the federal government sends subsidies for ACA plans to insurance companies, and not to individual consumers. Scripts were developed requiring agents not to mention a cash card, and if a customer mentions a cash card, “be vague” and tell the caller that only the insurance carrier can provide that information, the lawsuit alleges. In September, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss the claims. In addition to denying the charges, they argued that the class plaintiffs lacked the standing to make the accusations and failed to demonstrate that they suffered harm. The motion also argued that the lawsuit’s accusations failed to meet requirements necessary to claim civil violations of the RICO Act. Miami-based attorney Jason Kellogg, representing the plaintiffs, said he doesn’t expect a ruling on the motion to dismiss the case for several months. The complaint also lists nearly 50 companies, not named as defendants, that it says fed business to TrueCoverage and Enhance Health. Known in the industry as “downlines,” most operate in office parks throughout South Florida, the lawsuit says. The lawsuit quotes former TrueCoverage employees complaining about having to work with customers lured by false cash promises in the online ads. A former employee who worked in the company’s Deerfield Beach office was quoted in the lawsuit as saying that senior TrueCoverage and Speridian executives “knew that consumers were calling in response to the false advertisements promising cash cards and they pressured agents to use them to enroll consumers into ACA plans.” A former human resources manager for TrueCoverage said sales agents frequently complained “that they did not feel comfortable having to mislead consumers,” the lawsuit said. Over two dozen agents “came to me with these complaints and showed me the false advertisements that consumers who called in were showing them,” the lawsuit quoted the former manager as saying. For much of the time the companies operated, the ACA marketplace enabled agents to easily access customer accounts using their names and Social Security numbers, change their insurance plans and switch their agents of record without their knowledge or authorization, the lawsuit says. This resulted in customers’ original agents losing their commissions and many of the policyholders finding out they suddenly owed far more for health care services than their original plans had required, the suit states. It says that one of the co-plaintiffs’ health plans was changed at least 22 times without her consent. She first discovered that she had lost her original plan when she sought to renew a prescription for her heart condition and her doctor told her she did not have health insurance, the suit states. Another co-plaintiff’s policy was switched after her husband responded to one of the cash card advertisements, the lawsuit says. That couple’s insurance plan was switched multiple times after a TrueCoverage agent excluded the wife’s income from an application so the couple would qualify. Later, they received bills from the IRS for $4,300 to cover tax credits issued to pay for the plans. CMS barred TrueCoverage and BenefitAlign from accessing the ACA marketplace. It said it received more than 90,000 complaints about unauthorized plan switches and more than 183,500 complaints about unauthorized enrollments, but the agency did not attribute all of the complaints to activities by the two companies. In addition, CMS restricted all agents’ abilities to alter policyholders’ enrollment information, the lawsuit says. Now access is allowed only for agents that already represent policyholders or if the policyholder participates in a three-way call with an agent and a marketplace employee. Between June and October, the agency barred 850 agents and brokers from accessing the marketplace “for reasonable suspicion of fraudulent or abusive conduct related to unauthorized enrollments or unauthorized plan switches,” according to an October CMS news release . The changes resulted in a “dramatic and sustained drop” in unauthorized activity, including a nearly 70% decrease in plan changes associated with an agent or broker and a nearly 90% decrease in changes to agent or broker commission information, the release said. It added that while consumers were often unaware of such changes, the opportunity to make them provided “significant financial incentive for non-compliant agents and brokers.” But CMS’ restrictions might be having unintended consequences for law-abiding agents and brokers. A story published by Insurance News Net on Nov. 11 quoted the president of the Health Agents for America (HAFA) trade group as saying agents are being suspended by CMS after being flagged by a mysterious algorithm that no one can figure out. The story quotes HAFA president Ronnell Nolan as surmising, “maybe they wrote too many policies on the same day for people who have the same income or they’re writing too many policies on people of a certain occupation.” Nolan continued, “We have members who have thousands of ACA clients. They can’t update or renew their clients. So those consumers have lost access to their professional agent, which is simply unfair.” Ron Hurtibise covers business and consumer issues for the South Florida Sun Sentinel. He can be reached by phone at 954-356-4071, on Twitter @ronhurtibise or by email at rhurtibise@sunsentinel.com.CALGARY, Alberta--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 12, 2024-- Pembina Pipeline Corporation ("Pembina" or the "Company") (TSX: PPL; NYSE: PBA) announced today its 2025 financial guidance and provided a business update. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241212048876/en/ Highlights Business Update Pembina anticipates a record setting financial year in 2024 reflecting the positive impact of recent acquisitions, growing volumes in the WCSB, and a strong contribution from the marketing business. As expected, volumes in the conventional pipelines business have strengthened in the fourth quarter relative to the first three quarters of the year. In 2024, the Company meaningfully advanced its strategy through the full consolidation of Alliance Pipeline and Aux Sable (the "Alliance/Aux Sable Transaction"), and by reaching a positive final investment decision on the Cedar LNG Project. These two accomplishments highlight Pembina’s focus on strengthening the existing franchise, increasing exposure to resilient end-use markets, and accessing global market pricing for Canadian energy products. In addition, Pembina Gas Infrastructure ("PGI") announced transactions with Veren Inc. and Whitecap Resources Inc., creating opportunities with attractive economics that are expected to enhance asset utilization, capture future volumes, and benefit Pembina’s full value chain. Through these two transactions, we are realizing the vision set forth with the creation of PGI in 2022. Other accomplishments over the past year include the completion of the $430 million Phase VIII Peace Pipeline Expansion and the $90 million NEBC MPS Expansion, on time and under budget; sanctioning $210 million (net to Pembina) of new projects, including the Wapiti Expansion and K3 Cogeneration Facility; and entering into long-term agreements with Dow Chemical Canada to supply up to 50,000 barrels per day ("bpd") of ethane for their Path2Zero Project (the "Dow Supply Agreement"). Through its extensive asset base and integrated value chain, Pembina can provide a full suite of transportation and midstream services across multiple hydrocarbons – natural gas, crude oil, condensate, and NGL. This uniquely positions the Company to benefit from a robust, multi-year growth outlook for the WCSB driven by transformational developments that include the recent completion of the Trans Mountain Pipeline expansion, new West Coast liquefied natural gas ("LNG") and NGL export capacity, and the development of new petrochemical facilities creating significant demand for ethane and propane. Growing production and demand for services in the WCSB continues to provide opportunities to increase utilization on existing assets and pursue expansion opportunities. As attention turns to 2025, Pembina is focused on several key priorities including: Alliance Pipeline CER Toll Review The CER initiated a review of Alliance Pipeline’s tolls, which were previously approved by the CER. As such, the CER has ordered Alliance Pipeline to submit for approval a detailed toll application justifying why the current tolling methodology remains compliant with the Canadian Energy Regulator Act, or a new tolling methodology application. Likewise, the CER has ordered that the current tolls shall be deemed interim tolls until resolution of the above. Alliance Pipeline's tolls for the Canadian segment of the pipeline are approved by the CER, while its tolls for the United States segment are approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Alliance Pipeline's Canadian long-term firm service tolls have remained level since they were approved by the CER in 2015, while its full path tolls to Chicago have declined by approximately 15 percent. In comparison, tolls on alternative systems have increased by approximately 30 percent. Likewise, Alliance Pipeline has operated at an industry leading reliability rate. Furthermore, Alliance Pipeline remains an ‘at-risk’ commercial model where returns and cost recovery are squarely driven by the customer demand for its service and Alliance Pipeline's ability to efficiently provide such service. By contrast, the competitive alternatives and the majority of CER regulated Group 1 natural gas pipelines' returns are not materially exposed to volume or cost recovery risk. Alliance Pipeline is working collaboratively with its stakeholders through the CER review process and will remain focused on delivering the highest standards of service that customers have come to expect. Pembina will work expeditiously throughout 2025 with shippers towards a negotiated solution, in accordance with all CER direction. Approximately 60 percent of the adjusted EBITDA contribution from Alliance Pipeline is generated from the Canadian portion of the pipeline. Pembina’s 2025 adjusted EBITDA guidance, discussed below, assumes the existing toll is in effect for the full year. Board of Directors Appointment Pembina is pleased to announce that Mr. Alister Cowan has been appointed to the board of directors effective December 3, 2024. Mr. Cowan has over 20 years of experience in the energy industry and has significant financial executive level experience at various public companies. In 2023, he was Executive Advisor of Suncor Energy Inc. ("Suncor") and was previously Chief Financial Officer of Suncor from 2014 to 2023 where he oversaw financial operations, accounting, investor relations, treasury, tax, internal audit, and enterprise risk management. Prior to joining Suncor, Alister was Chief Financial Officer of Husky Energy Inc. from 2008 to 2014. Before that, he was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and Chief Compliance Officer of British Columbia Hydro and Power Authority. Mr. Cowan is a non-executive director of The Chemours Company and of Smiths Group PLC. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Finance from Heriot-Watt University and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland. Mr. Cowan has also been appointed to the audit committee. "The board of directors is excited to welcome Alister, and we look forward to working with him. Alister is a seasoned financial executive with extensive experience in Canadian energy. We are sure to benefit from his contribution as we work together to ensure Pembina's continued success during a transformational period of growth in the Canadian oil and gas industry," said Henry Sykes, Chair of the Board. 2025 Guidance Pembina is anticipating 2025 adjusted EBITDA of $4.2 billion to $4.5 billion. Relative to the midpoint of Pembina’s adjusted EBITDA guidance range for 2024, the major factors driving the outlook for 2025 adjusted EBITDA include: Pembina has hedged approximately 32 percent of its 2025 frac spread exposure. For 2025, the weighted average price of Pembina's frac spread hedges, excluding transportation and processing costs, is approximately C$36 per barrel, which compares to the prevailing 2025 forward price at the end of November 2024 of approximately C$37 per barrel. The mid-point of the 2025 adjusted EBITDA guidance range includes a forecasted contribution from the Marketing & New Ventures segment of $550 million. Excluding the contribution from the Marketing & New Ventures segment, the midpoint of the 2025 guidance range reflects an approximately 5.5 percent increase in fee-based adjusted EBITDA, relative to the forecast for 2024. Further, Pembina remains on-track to achieve four to six percent compound annual growth of fee-based adjusted EBITDA per share from 2023-2026. The lower and upper ends of the guidance range are framed primarily as a function of (1) commodity prices and the resulting contribution from the marketing business; (2) interruptible volumes on key systems; and (3) the U.S./Canadian dollar exchange rate. Current income tax expense in 2025 is anticipated to be $415 million to $470 million as Pembina will continue to benefit from the availability of tax pools from assets recently placed into service. Pembina's 2025 adjusted EBITDA may be directly impacted by market-based prices as follows: Key Variable 2025 Guidance Midpoint Assumption Sensitivity Impact on Adjusted EBITDA ($millions) (1) AECO / Station 2 Natural Gas (CAD/GJ) (2) $1.94 ± $0.50 ± 20 Chicago Natural Gas (USD/MMbtu) $2.90 ± $0.50 ± 49 Mont Belvieu Propane (USD/usg) $0.80 ± $0.10 ± 70 Foreign Exchange Rate (USD/CAD) $1.39 ± $0.05 ± 50 Includes the impact of Pembina's hedging program. In addition, Pembina has asymmetric exposure to AECO natural gas prices through a commercial contract with a customer, where Pembina benefits as AECO price rises above $3.00/GJ but does not have downside risk. 2025 Capital Investment Pembina's 2025 capital program is expected to be allocated as follows: ($ millions) 2025 Budget (1) Pipelines Division $330 Facilities Division $345 Marketing & New Ventures Division $15 Corporate $55 Capital Expenditures $745 Contributions to Equity Accounted Investees $355 Capital Expenditures and Contributions to Equity Accounted Investees $1,100 Pipelines Division capital expenditures primarily relate to sustaining capital, a terminal expansion within the conventional pipeline system, development spending on potential future projects, including the Fox Creek-to-Namao Peace Pipeline Expansion, and investments in smaller growth projects, including various laterals and terminals. Capital expenditures in the Facilities Division primarily relate to construction of the RFS IV Expansion, smaller growth projects, and sustaining capital spending. Capital expenditures within the Marketing and New Ventures Division and the Corporate segment are primarily targeted at information technology enhancements to further the Company's continuous improvement aspirations. Contributions to Equity Accounted Investees includes approximately $200 million of contributions to Cedar LNG to fund the construction of the Cedar LNG Project, and contributions to PGI to fund development of the Wapiti Expansion, K3 Cogeneration Facility, as well as development activities related to the previously announced agreements with Veren Inc. and Whitecap Resources Inc. The Company's 2025 capital program includes: In addition to the 2025 capital investment program detailed above, Pembina is in development of potential additional projects that, if sanctioned, would increase the 2025 capital program by up to $200 million. These projects primarily include pipeline and terminal upgrades in support of volume growth in NEBC, the Fox Creek-to-Namao Peace Pipeline Expansion, investments related to the Dow Supply Agreement, including the addition of a de-ethanizer tower at RFS III within the Redwater Complex, and optimization of the Prince Rupert Terminal to allow for the use of larger vessels, which would reduce per unit costs. Capital Allocation Pembina continues to execute its strategy within a fully funded model and consistent with its financial guardrails. Within the 2025 adjusted EBITDA guidance range, Pembina expects to generate positive free cash flow with all 2025 capital investment program scenarios being fully funded by cash flow from operating activities, net of dividends. Under prevailing market and economic conditions, Pembina expects to prioritize the use of excess free cash flow to debt repayment in 2025. As has been our approach since 2021, Pembina will continue to evaluate the merits of debt repayment relative to share repurchases while considering expected future funding requirements along with prevailing market conditions and the risk-adjusted returns of the associated alternatives. Pembina expects to exit 2025 with a proportionately consolidated debt-to-adjusted EBITDA ratio of 3.4 to 3.7 times. Excluding the debt related to the construction of the Cedar LNG project this ratio would be 3.2 to 3.5 times. About Pembina Pembina Pipeline Corporation is a leading energy transportation and midstream service provider that has served North America's energy industry for 70 years. Pembina owns an integrated network of hydrocarbon liquids and natural gas pipelines, gas gathering and processing facilities, oil and natural gas liquids infrastructure and logistics services, and an export terminals business. Through our integrated value chain, we seek to provide safe and reliable energy solutions that connect producers and consumers across the world, support a more sustainable future and benefit our customers, investors, employees and communities. For more information, please visit www.pembina.com . Purpose of Pembina: We deliver extraordinary energy solutions so the world can thrive. Pembina is structured into three Divisions: Pipelines Division, Facilities Division and Marketing & New Ventures Division. Pembina's common shares trade on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges under PPL and PBA, respectively. For more information, visit www.pembina.com . Forward-Looking Information and Statements This news release contains certain forward-looking information and statements (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), including forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of applicable securities legislation, that are based on Pembina's current expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "continue", "anticipate", "schedule", "will", "expects", "estimate", "potential", "planned", "future", "outlook", "strategy", "project", "trend", "commit", "maintain", "focus", "ongoing", "believe" and similar expressions suggesting future events or future performance. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements, including certain financial outlooks, pertaining to, without limitation, the following: Pembina's anticipated 2025 adjusted EBITDA, 2025 capital investment program costs, 2025 year-end proportionately consolidated debt-to-adjusted EBITDA ratio and current income tax expenses in 2025; Pembina's capital allocation plans, including with respect to debt repayment and share repurchases; expected cash flow from operating activities in 2025 and the uses thereof; 2024 year-end financial results, including the expectation that 2024 will be a record setting financial year; expectations with respect to the impacts of the Dow Supply Agreement and the transactions with Veren Inc. and Whitecap Resources Inc., as well as future actions taken in relation thereto; future pipeline, processing, fractionation and storage facility and system operations and throughput levels; Pembina's corporate strategy and the development and expected timing of new business initiatives and growth opportunities, including the anticipated timing and impacts thereof; expectations about industry activities and development opportunities, as well as the anticipated benefits and timing thereof; expectations about the demand for services, including expectations in respect of increased utilization across Pembina's assets, future tolls and volumes; planning, construction, capital expenditure and cost estimates, schedules, locations, regulatory and environmental applications and approvals, expected capacity, incremental volumes, power output, project completion and in-service dates, rights, activities and operations with respect to planned construction of, or expansions on, pipelines systems, gas services facilities, processing and fractionation facilities, terminalling, storage and hub facilities and other facilities or infrastructure; the development and anticipated benefits of Pembina's new projects and developments, including the K3 Cogeneration Facility, the Cedar LNG Project, the Wapiti Expansion, the Taylor to Gordondale Project, Fox Creek-to-Namao Peace Pipeline Expansion and the RFS IV Expansion, including the completion and timing thereof; expectations regarding CER's review of Alliance Pipeline's tolls, including the timing and outcome thereof and steps taken in connection therewith; the impact of current and future market conditions on Pembina; Pembina's hedging strategy and expected results therefrom; Pembina's capital structure, including future actions that may be taken with respect thereto and expectations regarding future uses of cash flows and uses thereof, repayments of existing debt, new borrowings and securities issuances; and Pembina's commitment to, and ability to maintain, its financial guardrails. The forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions that Pembina has made in respect thereof as at the date of this news release regarding, among other things: oil and gas industry exploration and development activity levels and the geographic region of such activity; that favourable market conditions exist, and that Pembina has available capital for share repurchases, repayment of debt and funding its capital expenditures; the success of Pembina's operations; prevailing commodity prices, interest rates, carbon prices, tax rates and exchange rates; the ability of Pembina to maintain current credit ratings; the availability of capital to fund future capital requirements relating to existing assets and projects; future operating costs; geotechnical and integrity costs; that all required regulatory and environmental approvals can be obtained on the necessary terms in a timely manner; prevailing regulatory, tax and environmental laws and regulations; maintenance of operating margins; and certain other assumptions in respect of Pembina's forward-looking statements detailed in Pembina's Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2023 (the "AIF") and Management's Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2023 (the "Annual MD&A"), which were each filed on SEDAR+ on February 22, 2024, as well as in Pembina's Management's Discussion and Analysis dated November 5, 2024 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 (the "Interim MD&A") and from time to time in Pembina's public disclosure documents available at www.sedarplus.ca , www.sec.gov and through Pembina's website at www.pembina.com . Although Pembina believes the expectations and material factors and assumptions reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date hereof, there can be no assurance that these expectations, factors and assumptions will prove to be correct. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially, including, but not limited to: the regulatory environment and decisions and Indigenous and landowner consultation requirements; the impact of competitive entities and pricing; reliance on third parties to successfully operate and maintain certain assets; the strength and operations of the oil and natural gas production industry and related commodity prices; non-performance or default by counterparties to agreements with Pembina or one or more of its affiliates; actions taken by governmental or regulatory authorities and changes in legislation (including uncertainty with respect to the interpretation of the recently enacted Bill C-59 and related amendments to the Competition Act (Canada)); the ability of Pembina to acquire or develop the necessary infrastructure in respect of future development projects; fluctuations in operating results; adverse general economic and market conditions in Canada, North America and worldwide; the ability to access various sources of debt and equity capital on acceptable terms; changes in credit ratings; counterparty credit risk; and certain other risks and uncertainties detailed in the AIF, Annual MD&A, Interim MD&A and from time to time in Pembina's public disclosure documents available at www.sedarplus.ca , www.sec.gov and through Pembina's website at www.pembina.com . This list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive. Readers are cautioned that events or circumstances could cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, forecasted or projected by forward-looking statements contained herein. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release speak only as of the date hereof. Pembina does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements or information contained herein, except as required by applicable laws. Management approved the 2025 adjusted EBITDA, 2025 capital investment program costs, 2025 proportionately consolidated debt-to-adjusted EBITDA and 2025 income tax expense guidance contained herein as of the date of this news release. The purpose of these financial outlooks is to assist readers in understanding Pembina's expected and targeted financial results, and this information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Non-GAAP and Other Financial Measures Throughout this news release, Pembina has disclosed certain financial measures and ratios that are not specified, defined or determined in accordance with GAAP and which are not disclosed in Pembina's financial statements. Non-GAAP financial measures either exclude an amount that is included in, or include an amount that is excluded from, the composition of the most directly comparable financial measure specified, defined and determined in accordance with GAAP. Non-GAAP ratios are financial measures that are in the form of a ratio, fraction, percentage or similar representation that has a non-GAAP financial measure as one or more of its components. These non-GAAP financial measures and ratios, together with financial measures and ratios specified, defined and determined in accordance with GAAP, are used by management to evaluate the performance and cash flows of Pembina and its businesses and to provide additional useful information respecting Pembina's financial performance and cash flows to investors and analysts. In this news release, Pembina has disclosed adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP financial measure, and proportionately consolidated debt-to-adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP ratio, which that do not have any standardized meaning under International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") and may not be comparable to similar financial measures or ratios disclosed by other issuers. Such financial measures and ratios should not, therefore, be considered in isolation or as a substitute for, or superior to, measures and ratios of Pembina's financial performance or cash flows specified, defined or determined in accordance with IFRS, including revenue or earnings. Except as otherwise described herein, these non-GAAP financial measures and non-GAAP ratios are calculated on a consistent basis from period to period. Specific reconciling items may only be relevant in certain periods. Below is a description of each non-GAAP financial measure and non-GAAP ratio disclosed in this news release, together with, as applicable, disclosure of the most directly comparable financial measure that is determined in accordance with GAAP to which each non-GAAP financial measure relates and a quantitative reconciliation of each non-GAAP financial measure to such directly comparable GAAP financial measure. Additional information relating to such non-GAAP financial measures and non-GAAP ratios, including disclosure of the composition of each non-GAAP financial measure and non-GAAP ratio, an explanation of how each non-GAAP financial measure and non-GAAP ratio provides useful information to investors and the additional purposes, if any, for which management uses each non-GAAP financial measure; an explanation of the reason for any change in the label or composition of each non-GAAP financial measure and non-GAAP ratio from what was previously disclosed; and a description of any significant difference between forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures and the equivalent historical non-GAAP financial measures, is contained in the "Non-GAAP & Other Financial Measures" section of the Annual MD&A, which information is incorporated by reference in this news release. The Annual MD&A is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca , EDGAR at www.sec.gov and Pembina's website at www.pembina.com . Adjusted Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure and is calculated as earnings before net finance costs, income taxes, depreciation and amortization (included in operations and general and administrative expense) and unrealized gains or losses on commodity-related derivative financial instruments. The exclusion of unrealized gains or losses on commodity-related derivative financial instruments eliminates the non-cash impact of such gains or losses. Adjusted EBITDA also includes adjustments to earnings for losses (gains) on disposal of assets, transaction costs incurred in respect of acquisitions, dispositions and restructuring, impairment charges or reversals in respect of goodwill, intangible assets, investments in equity accounted investees and property, plant and equipment, certain non-cash provisions and other amounts not reflective of ongoing operations. In addition, Pembina's proportionate share of results from investments in equity accounted investees with a preferred interest is presented in adjusted EBITDA as a 50 percent common interest . These additional adjustments are made to exclude various non-cash and other items that are not reflective of ongoing operations. The equivalent historical non-GAAP financial measure to 2025 adjusted EBITDA guidance is adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2023. 12 Months Ended December 31, 2023 Pipelines Facilities Marketing & New Ventures Corporate & Inter-segment Eliminations Total ($ millions, except per share amounts) Earnings (loss) 1,840 610 435 (696) 1,776 Income tax expense — — — — 413 Adjustments to share of profit from equity accounted investees and other 172 438 84 — 694 Net finance costs 28 9 4 425 466 Depreciation and amortization 414 159 46 44 663 Unrealized loss from derivative instruments — — 32 — 32 Impairment reversal (231) — — — (231) Transaction costs incurred in respect of acquisitions, gain on disposal of assets and non-cash provisions 11 (3) (4) 7 11 Adjusted EBITDA 2,234 1,213 597 (220) 3,824 Adjusted EBITDA from Equity Accounted Investees In accordance with IFRS, Pembina's jointly controlled investments are accounted for using equity accounting. Under equity accounting, the assets and liabilities of the investment are presented net in a single line item in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position, "Investments in Equity Accounted Investees". Net earnings from investments in equity accounted investees are recognized in a single line item in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings and Comprehensive Income "Share of Profit from Equity Accounted Investees". The adjustments made to earnings, in adjusted EBITDA above, are also made to share of profit from investments in equity accounted investees. Cash contributions and distributions from investments in equity accounted investees represent Pembina's share paid and received in the period to and from the investments in equity accounted investees. To assist in understanding and evaluating the performance of these investments, Pembina is supplementing the IFRS disclosure with non-GAAP proportionate consolidation of Pembina's interest in the investments in equity accounted investees. Pembina's proportionate interest in equity accounted investees has been included in adjusted EBITDA. 12 Months Ended December 31, 2023 Pipelines Facilities Marketing & New Ventures Total ($ millions) Share of profit (loss) from equity accounted investees - operations 109 233 (26) 316 Adjustments to share of profit from equity accounted investees: Net finance costs 22 160 1 183 Income tax expense — 41 — 41 Depreciation and amortization 150 207 25 386 Unrealized loss on commodity-related derivative financial instruments — 16 — 16 Transaction costs incurred in respect of acquisitions — 14 58 72 Total adjustments to share of profit from equity accounted investees 172 438 84 694 Adjusted EBITDA from equity accounted investees 281 671 58 1,010 Proportionately Consolidated Debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA Proportionately Consolidated Debt-to-Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP ratio that management believes is useful to investors and other users of Pembina’s financial information in the evaluation of the Company’s debt levels and creditworthiness. 12 Months Ended ($ millions, except as noted) September 30, 2024 December 31, 2023 Loans and borrowings (current) 946 650 Loans and borrowings (non-current) 11,182 9,253 Loans and borrowings of equity accounted investees 2,770 2,805 Proportionately consolidated debt 14,898 12,708 Adjusted EBITDA 4,187 3,824 Proportionately consolidated debt-to-adjusted EBITDA (times) 3.6 3.3 ($ millions) 12 Months Ended September 30, 2024 9 Months Ended September 30, 2024 12 Months Ended December 31, 2023 9 Months Ended September 30, 2023 Earnings before income tax 1,791 976 2,189 1,374 Adjustments to share of profit from equity accounted investees and other 640 454 694 508 Net finance costs 514 398 466 350 Depreciation and amortization 805 627 663 485 Unrealized loss on derivative instruments 83 129 32 78 Non-controlling interest (1) (12) (12) — — Loss on Alliance/Aux Sable Acquisition 616 616 — — Derecognition of insurance contract provision (34) (34) — — Transaction and integration costs in respect of acquisitions 20 18 2 — Gain on disposal of assets, other non-cash provisions, and other (5) (18) 9 (4) Impairment reversal (231) — (231) — Adjusted EBITDA 4,187 3,154 3,824 2,791 =A+B-C A B C (1) Presented net of adjusting items. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241212048876/en/ CONTACT: For further information:Pembina Investor Relations (403) 231-3156 1-855-880-7404 investor-relations@pembina.com www.pembina.com KEYWORD: NORTH AMERICA CANADA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: OIL/GAS ENERGY LOGISTICS/SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT TRANSPORT UTILITIES SOURCE: Pembina Pipeline Corporation Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/12/2024 05:05 PM/DISC: 12/12/2024 05:06 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241212048876/en

As open enrollment for Affordable Care Act plans continues through Jan. 15, you’re likely seeing fewer social media ads promising monthly cash cards worth hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars that you can use for groceries, medical bills, rent and other expenses. But don’t worry. You haven’t missed out on any windfalls. Clicking on one of those ads would not have provided you with a cash card — at least not worth hundreds or thousands. But you might have found yourself switched to a health insurance plan you did not authorize, unable to afford treatment for an unforeseen medical emergency, and owing thousands of dollars to the IRS, according to an ongoing lawsuit against companies and individuals who plaintiffs say masterminded the ads and alleged scams committed against millions of people who responded to them. The absence of those once-ubiquitous ads are likely a result of the federal government suspending access to the ACA marketplace for two companies that market health insurance out of South Florida offices, amid accusations they used “fraudulent” ads to lure customers and then switched their insurance plans and agents without their knowledge. In its suspension letter, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) cited “credible allegations of misconduct” in the agency’s decision to suspend the abilities of two companies — TrueCoverage (doing business as Inshura) and BenefitAlign — to transact information with the marketplace. CMS licenses and monitors agencies that use their own websites and information technology platforms to enroll health insurance customers in ACA plans offered in the federal marketplace. The alleged scheme affected millions of consumers, according to a lawsuit winding its way through U.S. District Court in Fort Lauderdale that seeks class-action status. An amended version of the suit, filed in August, increased the number of defendants from six to 12: — TrueCoverage LLC, an Albuquerque, New Mexico-based health insurance agency with large offices in Miami, Miramar and Deerfield Beach. TrueCoverage is a sub-tenant of the South Florida Sun Sentinel in a building leased by the newspaper in Deerfield Beach. — Enhance Health LLC, a Sunrise-based health insurance agency that the lawsuit says was founded by Matthew Herman, also named as a defendant, with a $150 million investment from hedge fund Bain Capital’s insurance division. Bain Capital Insurance Fund LP is also a defendant. — Speridian Technologies LLC, accused in the lawsuit of establishing two direct enrollment platforms that provided TrueCoverage and other agencies access to the ACA marketplace. — Benefitalign LLC, identified in the suit as one of the direct enrollment platforms created by Speridian. Like Speridian and TrueCoverage, the company is based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. — Number One Prospecting LLC, doing business as Minerva Marketing, based in Fort Lauderdale, and its founder, Brandon Bowsky, accused of developing the social media ads that drove customers — or “leads” — to the health insurance agencies. — Digital Media Solutions LLC, doing business as Protect Health, a Miami-based agency that the suit says bought Minerva’s “fraudulent” ads. In September, the company filed for Chapter 11 protection from creditors in United States Bankruptcy Court in Texas, which automatically suspended claims filed against the company. — Net Health Affiliates Inc., an Aventura-based agency the lawsuit says was associated with Enhance Health and like it, bought leads from Minerva. — Garish Panicker, identified in the lawsuit as half-owner of Speridian Global Holdings and day-to-day controller of companies under its umbrella, including TrueCoverage, Benefitalign and Speridian Technologies. — Matthew Goldfuss, accused by the suit of overseeing and directing TrueCoverage’s ACA enrollment efforts. All of the defendants have filed motions to dismiss the lawsuit. The motions deny the allegations and argue that the plaintiffs failed to properly state their claims and lack the standing to file the complaints. The Sun Sentinel sent requests for comment and lists of questions about the cases to four separate law firms representing separate groups of defendants. Three of the law firms — one representing Brandon Bowsky and Number One Prospecting LLC d/b/a Minerva Marketing, and two others representing Net Health Affiliates Inc. and Bain Capital Insurance Fund — did not respond to the requests. A representative of Enhance Health LLC and Matthew Herman, Olga M. Vieira of the Miami-based firm Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan LLP, responded with a short message saying she was glad the newspaper knew a motion to dismiss the charges had been filed by the defendants. She also said that, “Enhance has denied all the allegations as reported previously in the media.” Catherine Riedel, a communications specialist representing TrueCoverage LLC, Benefitalign LLC, Speridian Technologies LLC, Girish Panicker and Matthew Goldfuss, issued the following statement: “TrueCoverage takes these allegations very seriously and is responding appropriately. While we cannot comment on ongoing litigation, we strongly believe that the allegations are baseless and without merit. “Compliance is our business. The TrueCoverage team records and reviews every call with a customer, including during Open Enrollment when roughly 500 agents handle nearly 30,000 calls a day. No customer is enrolled into any policy without a formal verbal consent given by the customer. If any customer calls in as a result of misleading content presented by third-party marketing vendors, agents are trained to correct such misinformation and action is taken against such third-party vendors.” Through Riedel, the defendants declined to answer follow-up questions, including whether the company remains in business, whether it continues to enroll Affordable Care Act clients, and whether it is still operating its New Mexico call center using another affiliated technology platform. The suspension notification from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services letter cites several factors, including the histories of noncompliance and previous suspensions. The letter noted suspicion that TrueCoverage and Benefitalign were storing consumers’ personally identifiable information in databases located in India and possibly other overseas locations in violation of the centers’ rules. The letter also notes allegations against the companies in the pending lawsuit that “they engaged in a variety of illegal practices, including violations of the (Racketeer Influenced & Corrupt Organizations, or RICO Act), misuse of consumer (personal identifiable information) and insurance fraud.” The amended lawsuit filed in August names as plaintiffs five individuals who say their insurance plans were changed and two agencies who say they lost money when they were replaced as agents. The lawsuit accuses the defendants of 55 counts of wrongdoing, ranging from running ads offering thousands of dollars in cash that they knew would never be provided directly to consumers, switching millions of consumers into different insurance policies without their authorization, misstating their household incomes to make them eligible for $0 premium coverage, and “stealing” commissions by switching the agents listed in their accounts. TrueCoverage, Enhance Health, Protect Health, and some of their associates “engaged in hundreds of thousands of agent-of-record swaps to steal other agents’ commissions,” the suit states. “Using the Benefitalign and Inshura platforms, they created large spreadsheet lists of consumer names, dates of birth and zip codes.” They provided those spreadsheets to agents, it says, and instructed them to access platforms linked to the ACA marketplace and change the customers’ agents of record “without telling the client or providing informed consent.” “In doing so, they immediately captured the monthly commissions of agents ... who had originally worked with the consumers directly to sign them up,” the lawsuit asserts. TrueCoverage employees who complained about dealing with prospects who called looking for cash cards were routinely chided by supervisors who told them to be vague and keep making money, the suit says. When the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services began contacting the company in January about customer complaints, the suit says TrueCoverage enrollment supervisor Matthew Goldfuss sent an email instructing agents “do not respond.” The lawsuit states the “scheme” was made possible in 2021 when Congress passed the American Rescue Plan Act in the wake of the COVID pandemic. The act made it possible for Americans with household incomes between 100% and 150% of the federal poverty level to pay zero in premiums and it enabled those consumers to enroll in ACA plans all year round, instead of during the three-month open enrollment period from November to January. Experienced health insurance brokers recognized the opportunity presented by the changes, the lawsuit says. More than 40 million Americans live within 100% and 150% of the federal poverty level, while only 15 million had ACA insurance at the time. The defendants developed or benefited from online ads, the lawsuit says, which falsely promised “hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars per month in cash benefits such as subsidy cards to pay for common expenses like rent, groceries, and gas.” Consumers who clicked on the ads were brought to a landing page that asked a few qualifying questions, and if their answers suggested that they might qualify for a low-cost or no-cost plan, they were provided a phone number to a health insurance agency. There was a major problem with the plan, according to the lawsuit. “Customers believe they are being routed to someone who will send them a free cash card, not enroll them in health insurance.” By law, the federal government sends subsidies for ACA plans to insurance companies, and not to individual consumers. Scripts were developed requiring agents not to mention a cash card, and if a customer mentions a cash card, “be vague” and tell the caller that only the insurance carrier can provide that information, the lawsuit alleges. In September, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss the claims. In addition to denying the charges, they argued that the class plaintiffs lacked the standing to make the accusations and failed to demonstrate that they suffered harm. The motion also argued that the lawsuit’s accusations failed to meet requirements necessary to claim civil violations of the RICO Act. Miami-based attorney Jason Kellogg, representing the plaintiffs, said he doesn’t expect a ruling on the motion to dismiss the case for several months. The complaint also lists nearly 50 companies, not named as defendants, that it says fed business to TrueCoverage and Enhance Health. Known in the industry as “downlines,” most operate in office parks throughout South Florida, the lawsuit says. The lawsuit quotes former TrueCoverage employees complaining about having to work with customers lured by false cash promises in the online ads. A former employee who worked in the company’s Deerfield Beach office was quoted in the lawsuit as saying that senior TrueCoverage and Speridian executives “knew that consumers were calling in response to the false advertisements promising cash cards and they pressured agents to use them to enroll consumers into ACA plans.” A former human resources manager for TrueCoverage said sales agents frequently complained “that they did not feel comfortable having to mislead consumers,” the lawsuit said. Over two dozen agents “came to me with these complaints and showed me the false advertisements that consumers who called in were showing them,” the lawsuit quoted the former manager as saying. For much of the time the companies operated, the ACA marketplace enabled agents to easily access customer accounts using their names and Social Security numbers, change their insurance plans and switch their agents of record without their knowledge or authorization, the lawsuit says. This resulted in customers’ original agents losing their commissions and many of the policyholders finding out they suddenly owed far more for health care services than their original plans had required, the suit states. It says that one of the co-plaintiffs’ health plans was changed at least 22 times without her consent. She first discovered that she had lost her original plan when she sought to renew a prescription for her heart condition and her doctor told her she did not have health insurance, the suit states. Another co-plaintiff’s policy was switched after her husband responded to one of the cash card advertisements, the lawsuit says. That couple’s insurance plan was switched multiple times after a TrueCoverage agent excluded the wife’s income from an application so the couple would qualify. Later, they received bills from the IRS for $4,300 to cover tax credits issued to pay for the plans. CMS barred TrueCoverage and BenefitAlign from accessing the ACA marketplace. It said it received more than 90,000 complaints about unauthorized plan switches and more than 183,500 complaints about unauthorized enrollments, but the agency did not attribute all of the complaints to activities by the two companies. In addition, CMS restricted all agents’ abilities to alter policyholders’ enrollment information, the lawsuit says. Now access is allowed only for agents that already represent policyholders or if the policyholder participates in a three-way call with an agent and a marketplace employee. Between June and October, the agency barred 850 agents and brokers from accessing the marketplace “for reasonable suspicion of fraudulent or abusive conduct related to unauthorized enrollments or unauthorized plan switches,” according to an October CMS news release . The changes resulted in a “dramatic and sustained drop” in unauthorized activity, including a nearly 70% decrease in plan changes associated with an agent or broker and a nearly 90% decrease in changes to agent or broker commission information, the release said. It added that while consumers were often unaware of such changes, the opportunity to make them provided “significant financial incentive for non-compliant agents and brokers.” But CMS’ restrictions might be having unintended consequences for law-abiding agents and brokers. A story published by Insurance News Net on Nov. 11 quoted the president of the Health Agents for America (HAFA) trade group as saying agents are being suspended by CMS after being flagged by a mysterious algorithm that no one can figure out. The story quotes HAFA president Ronnell Nolan as surmising, “maybe they wrote too many policies on the same day for people who have the same income or they’re writing too many policies on people of a certain occupation.” Nolan continued, “We have members who have thousands of ACA clients. They can’t update or renew their clients. So those consumers have lost access to their professional agent, which is simply unfair.” Ron Hurtibise covers business and consumer issues for the South Florida Sun Sentinel. He can be reached by phone at 954-356-4071, on Twitter @ronhurtibise or by email at rhurtibise@sunsentinel.com.

Trump says he will nominate former White House aide Brooke Rollins to be agriculture secretaryBy MARY CLARE JALONICK and MATT BROWN WASHINGTON (AP) — Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Defense Department, said he had a “wonderful conversation” with Maine Sen. Susan Collins on Wednesday as he pushed to win enough votes for confirmation. He said he will not back down after allegations of excessive drinking and sexual misconduct. Related Articles National Politics | Donald Trump will ring the New York Stock Exchange bell. It’ll be a first for him National Politics | FBI director Christopher Wray will quit before Donald Trump takes office National Politics | Anthony Weiner, ex-congressman jailed in sexting scandal, files to run for NYC City Council seat National Politics | The Trump and Biden teams insist they’re working hand in glove on foreign crises National Politics | Ex-prosecutor charged with meddling in Ahmaud Arbery case appears in court ahead of trial Collins said after the hourlong meeting that she questioned Hegseth about the allegations amid reports of drinking and the revelation that he made a settlement payment after being accused of a sexual assault that he denies. She said she had a “good, substantive” discussion with Hegseth and “covered a wide range of topics,” including sexual assault in the military, Ukraine and NATO. But she said she would wait until a hearing, and notably a background check, to make a decision. “I asked virtually every question under the sun,” Collins told reporters as she left her office after the meeting. “I pressed him both on his position on military issues as well as the allegations against him, so I don’t think there was anything that we did not cover.” The meeting with Collins was closely watched as she is seen as more likely than most of her Republican Senate colleagues to vote against some of Trump’s Cabinet picks. She and Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski, a fellow moderate Republican, did not shy from opposing Trump in his first term when they wanted to do so and sometimes supported President Joe Biden’s nominees for the judicial and executive branches. And Hegseth, an infantry combat veteran and former “Fox & Friends” weekend host, is working to gain as many votes as he can as some senators have expressed concerns about his personal history and lack of management experience. “I’m certainly not going to assume anything about where the senator stands,” Hegseth said as he left Collins’ office. “This is a process that we respect and appreciate. And we hope, in time, overall, when we get through that committee and to the floor that we can earn her support.” Hegseth met with Murkowski on Tuesday. He has also been meeting repeatedly with Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, a military veteran who has said she is a survivor of sexual assault and has spent time in the Senate working on improving how attacks are reported and prosecuted within the ranks. On Monday, Ernst said after a meeting with him that he had committed to selecting a senior official to prioritize those goals. Republicans will have a 53-49 majority next year, meaning Trump cannot lose more than three votes on any of his nominees. It is so far unclear whether Hegseth will have enough support, but Trump has stepped up his pressure on senators in the last week. “Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!” Trump posted on his social media platform last week.By MARY CLARE JALONICK and MATT BROWN WASHINGTON (AP) — Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Defense Department, said he had a “wonderful conversation” with Maine Sen. Susan Collins on Wednesday as he pushed to win enough votes for confirmation. He said he will not back down after allegations of excessive drinking and sexual misconduct. Related Articles National Politics | Donald Trump will ring the New York Stock Exchange bell. It’ll be a first for him National Politics | The Trump and Biden teams insist they’re working hand in glove on foreign crises National Politics | ‘You don’t know what’s next.’ International students scramble ahead of Trump inauguration National Politics | Trump is threatening to raise tariffs again. Here’s how China plans to fight back National Politics | Trump won’t be able to save the struggling US beef industry Collins said after the hourlong meeting that she questioned Hegseth about the allegations amid reports of drinking and the revelation that he made a settlement payment after being accused of a sexual assault that he denies. She said she had a “good, substantive” discussion with Hegseth and “covered a wide range of topics,” including sexual assault in the military, Ukraine and NATO. But she said she would wait until a hearing, and notably a background check, to make a decision. “I asked virtually every question under the sun,” Collins told reporters as she left her office after the meeting. “I pressed him both on his position on military issues as well as the allegations against him, so I don’t think there was anything that we did not cover.” The meeting with Collins was closely watched as she is seen as more likely than most of her Republican Senate colleagues to vote against some of Trump’s Cabinet picks. She and Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski, a fellow moderate Republican, did not shy from opposing Trump in his first term when they wanted to do so and sometimes supported President Joe Biden’s nominees for the judicial and executive branches. And Hegseth, an infantry combat veteran and former “Fox & Friends” weekend host, is working to gain as many votes as he can as some senators have expressed concerns about his personal history and lack of management experience. “I’m certainly not going to assume anything about where the senator stands,” Hegseth said as he left Collins’ office. “This is a process that we respect and appreciate. And we hope, in time, overall, when we get through that committee and to the floor that we can earn her support.” Hegseth met with Murkowski on Tuesday. He has also been meeting repeatedly with Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, a military veteran who has said she is a survivor of sexual assault and has spent time in the Senate working on improving how attacks are reported and prosecuted within the ranks. On Monday, Ernst said after a meeting with him that he had committed to selecting a senior official to prioritize those goals. Republicans will have a 53-49 majority next year, meaning Trump cannot lose more than three votes on any of his nominees. It is so far unclear whether Hegseth will have enough support, but Trump has stepped up his pressure on senators in the last week. “Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!” Trump posted on his social media platform last week.

A month after the Saskatchewan Party was re-elected, the government is outlining its priorities in the 2024 throne speech. “We should never take for granted the tremendous privilege that we have in our province and our country to freely choose our representatives and our government,” Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said in the speech. Moe says his government plans to start working on affordability issues, including a promise to reduce personal income tax rates. The provincial government also plans to address problems in health care, education and community safety. Affordability The largest section of the throne speech, Moe said he will introduce the largest personal income tax reduction in Saskatchewan since 2008 by raising the personal exemption, spousal exemption, child exemption and seniors supplement by $500 a year in each of the next four years, in addition to fully indexing income tax brackets. Moe said a family of four can expect to save more than $3,400 over the next four years and a senior couple will save more than $3,100. “When fully implemented, an additional 54,000 people will no longer pay any Saskatchewan income tax,” Moe explained. “The Saskatchewan Low-Income Tax Credit will be increased by 20 per cent over the next four years. When it comes to homeowners, the Home Renovation Tax Credit will allow homeowners to claim up to $4,000 in home renovation expenses every year, to a maximum benefit of $420 annually. Seniors will be able to claim an additional $1,000 every year, for a maximum benefit of $525 annually. Moe promises the Saskatchewan First-Time Homebuyers Credit will be increased by 50 per cent, from $10,000 to $15,000. The government is also promising to increase the disability tax credit by 25 per cent. The government will also introduce legislation to extend the carbon price exemption on natural gas through 2025. Health care Moe said his government will continue to accelerate the hiring of health-care professionals and expand urgent care centres. An urgent care centre opened in Regina this July and has served the needs of more than 14,000 patients. Moe said his government will open additional urgent care centres in Saskatoon, Prince Albert, North Battleford, Moose Jaw and Regina. Moe is also promising 450,000 surgeries will be performed over the next four years. “Increasing capacity will reduce surgical wait times to no more than three months,” the speech says. “To meet the need for more health-care infrastructure, five new hospitals are under development in Prince Albert, Weyburn, Esterhazy, Rosthern and Yorkton. “Over four years, my government will invest more than $2.6 billion into health-care infrastructure.” The speech also said the province will further implement a nurse task force, provide women with the option to do cervix self-screening at home for the human papillomavirus and more. Education When it comes to education, Moe said he will work to expand the specialized support classroom model. “My government will work with school divisions to expand the specialized support classroom pilot to 200 more schools throughout the province,” Moe said. He also said he would increase funding for school divisions, but not by how much or when. Safer communities When it comes to community safety, Moe said his government will add 500 more police officers and 500 more addiction recovery spaces. “More police officers, more access to recovery spaces, more mental health supports and stronger laws – that’s my government’s plan for safer communities and neighbourhoods,” the speech reads. Saskatchewan NDP push back The Saskatchewan Party heads into the 61-seat legislature with 34 members, facing a larger 27-member Opposition under NDP Leader Carla Beck. Beck said this speech from the Throne was just more of “the same old Sask. Party.” “Regardless of who you voted for, people want action from their elected officials. They want results now,” said Beck. “Claiming to have heard voters’ concerns while refusing to change course makes it clear that this is the same old Sask. Party government. People are tired of the same old song and dance from these guys. They want better than this.” Beck said the speech misses the mark in many key areas. She believes there are no new affordability measures until tax time next year, and only for those who are actually eligible. The NDP leader also said the promises do nothing to get Saskatchewan schools “out of last place in Canada,” and no changes to the “failed healthcare plan.” “Scott Moe suggests he’s heard the message from the people of Saskatchewan that they want change, but he offers nothing of the sort,” Beck said. “He’s pressing ahead with cuts to funding for hospitals and schools and doing nothing immediately to help make life more affordable for families. This is a government that’s out of ideas and out of touch with the people in this province who are hurting.” Beck, whose party gained ground in Saskatoon and Regina after the election, said she will press Moe to suspend the provincial gas tax and fix health care. She says her party plans to introduce an emergency motion that would give Moe a Wednesday deadline to pause the gas tax. — More info to come.

Believe it or not, Cowboys might have hope yet after chaotic win at WashingtonPHILADELPHIA (AP) — Jalen Hurts and A.J. Brown’s troubles connecting on the field have yet to blow into a family feud inside the locker room — honest, both Philadelphia Eagles stars said. Between Hurts and Brown, it’s all good in Philly. “Me and Jalen are good,” Brown said. Added Hurts, “We’re good, we’re good.” So there will be no sit-ups in the driveway, no apologies on the front lawn, and certainly, it seems, no rift between Hurts and his No. 1 receiver. Hurts and Brown each downplayed any hint of a fissure Wednesday between the two after defensive end Brandon Graham appeared this week on a Philadelphia sports radio station and suggested there was friction between the Pro Bowl duo. The two were close friends long before they became teammates and Hurts is the godfather for Brown’s daughter. Graham's comments — in which he noted “ things have changed ,” between the two, without offering specifics — exploded into tabloid and fan fodder this week in Philadelphia. His insinuations that the duo were not on the same page came on the heels of Brown's quote after a sluggish win over Carolina that the “ offense ” wasn’t playing up to standard, even with the Eagles at 11-2. “BG knows he spoke out of place,” Hurts said. Graham, who is sidelined with a triceps injury, clarified his comments later to an ESPN reporter, saying he made the wrong assumption about the relationship between Hurts and Brown and planned to apologize to both players. Brown, with 109 yards receiving combined the last two games, said his beef with the offense wasn't directed at Hurts. It was everything from offensive coordinator Kellen Moore's play calling to execution to all the ingredients in a successful offense that make a team a Super Bowl contender. The usually pass-happy Eagles have leaned more on running back Saquon Barkley, who set the franchise season rushing record of 1,623 yards against the Panthers and is chasing Eric Dickerson for the NFL mark. “Obviously, it's not about running the ball,” Brown told reporters. “He's about to win MVP. Clearly. What other things can we do on offense? We have to pass the ball. That can go into protection, that can go into picking up the block, that goes to us getting open quicker. Getting on the same page.” Eagles coach Nick Sirianni said he never witnessed any issues between Hurts and Brown and only saw two players who worked hard together, even working on routes after practice and seemed to have a deep personal connection on and off the field. “You guys get to see three hours every Sunday where emotions can play as high as they’re going to play,” Sirianni said. “I get to see these guys every single day, how they go about their business and interact with each other.” Brown, who was coming off consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons, wasn't necessarily wrong in his frustration with the recent stagnation of the passing game. Hurts, who signed a contract extension ahead of the 2023 season that was worth $179.3 million guaranteed , has thrown for fewer than 200 yards in three straight games. Wide receiver DeVonta Smith — who also complained Sunday about the offense — was also coming off consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons but has yet to break 100 yards in a game this season. Brown has four 100-yard games, well off last season’s run when he topped 100 yards in six straight games and seven times overall. Hurts has been more efficient than explosive this season but has still thrown 12 touchdown passes to just one interception — and rushed for 11 more scores — during the Eagles' nine-game winning streak that has them on the brink of clinching the NFC East. Maybe playing the Steelers on Sunday at home can snap the Eagles out of their offensive malaise. Hurts threw three TD passes to Brown in a 35-13 win in 2022. “Do we all have things to get better at in the passing game? Yeah, I think that’s obvious,” Sirianni said. “I think that’s what we’ve been talking about. We all have things that we’ve got to get better at, coaches, players. But this is why this is the greatest team sport there is. It takes everybody. It takes every single person being together, every single person for the success to happen. It’s just not a one-person thing.” AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL

 

iwild casino eu

2025-01-13
wild casino trustpilot
wild casino trustpilot

Sora: OpenAI’s AI-Powered Video Generator Now Accessible To All US UsersSt. Benedict’s urges funding for STEM Centre to empower futuresGenenta Science S.p.A. ( NASDAQ:GNTA – Get Free Report ) was the target of a significant growth in short interest in the month of December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totalling 3,100 shares, a growth of 121.4% from the November 30th total of 1,400 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 13,600 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 0.2 days. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Separately, HC Wainwright reissued a “buy” rating and set a $25.00 price target on shares of Genenta Science in a report on Wednesday, October 2nd. Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on GNTA Genenta Science Trading Down 5.2 % Institutional Investors Weigh In On Genenta Science A hedge fund recently bought a new stake in Genenta Science stock. AlTi Global Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Genenta Science S.p.A. ( NASDAQ:GNTA – Free Report ) during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm bought 200,288 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $621,000. AlTi Global Inc. owned 1.10% of Genenta Science at the end of the most recent quarter. 15.13% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Genenta Science Company Profile ( Get Free Report ) Genenta Science S.p.A., a clinical-stage biotechnology company, engages in the development of hematopoietic stem cell gene therapies for the treatment of solid tumors in Italy. Its lead product candidate is Temferon, which is in Phase 1/2a clinical trials for use in the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme in patients with unmethylated MGMT gene promoter. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Genenta Science Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Genenta Science and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

(BPT) - This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting movement and posture that begins in early childhood development. It is the most common cause of motor disability in children, affecting about one in 345 children in the United States. 1-2 It may happen as a result of lack of oxygen during or around birth, stroke, infection, a problem with metabolism or other problems that cause injury or affect the development of parts of the brain involved in movement control in the first few years of life. 3 CP is a permanent condition, affecting a person for their entire life. People living with CP typically have motor problems, which may include spasticity (abnormal muscle tightness), dyskinesia (uncontrolled movements) or ataxia (poor muscle control), and many people have a mix of these motor disorders. 4 Dyskinesia due to CP (DCP) is one of the most disabling forms of CP and impacts approximately 10% to 20% of people living with CP. 5-6 According to the Cerebral Palsy Foundation (CPF), the combination of irregular and unpredictable movements (chorea) and twisting and repeating movements (dystonia) often disrupt activities and cause significant functional impairment, including the ability to maintain balance, walk or fine motor control. 7 Heather Riordan, M.D., Neurologist and Movement Disorders Specialist, Director of the Phelps Center for Cerebral Palsy at the Kennedy Krieger Institute, discusses the symptoms of chorea and impact on patients in a video shared on the CPF website here . About 30% of people with DCP are affected mostly by these involuntary and irregular movements (chorea), while dystonia is the predominant motor finding in the remaining 70%. 8 However, it is common for both chorea and dystonia movements to be present together. 6 For people living with DCP, these movements can occur in any region of the body, including the arms and legs, torso and face and may vary in severity. They are often triggered or made worse by stimulation or stress. Because dyskinesia can occur at rest and/or when actively using the body, the problems with movement are very burdensome in day-to-day living, with discomfort and pain affecting the quality of life for people and their caregivers. 9 Jen Lyman, mom to a son with DCP, highlights how dyskinesia makes communicating more difficult. "The most difficult thing about dyskinesia is watching my son struggle to do things that he wants to do, but the extra movements get in the way...special things, such as using a touch screen to video chat with his grandmother, are nearly impossible despite his best efforts to use his hands and fingers. Something so simple, yet so special for him should be effortless." DCP has a wide-ranging impact on the individual, including lifelong challenges with movement, a higher risk of other medical issues, a higher rate of mental health challenges and difficulties with communication. 10-12 "Those of us who have the privilege to serve patients with dyskinetic, hyperkinetic or mixed cerebral palsy see the functional impact of this very challenging type of tone every day," said Susan Biffl, M.D., Rehabilitation Medicine Specialist at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego and Assistant Professor at UC San Diego School of Medicine. "Patients face challenges with self-care, independence, mobility, communication, fine motor skills that affect occupational and recreational activities, swallowing, social interactions and even sleep. As this tone is variable, it is much more challenging to treat than more consistent tone issues, such as spasticity." Treatment Options There are currently no Food and Drug Administration-approved treatments for DCP. Dystonia and chorea are often managed separately as they respond differently to various treatments, which can make treatment challenging. 3 Most drugs being investigated for DCP have focused on dystonia, and more research is needed to determine potential treatments for chorea. New treatment options are needed to help manage these movement disorders and improve daily function and quality of life for those affected. "After 20 years of caring for individuals with cerebral palsy, I continue to find those with dyskinetic cerebral palsy among the most challenging to treat, largely due to the limited effectiveness of available pharmacologic options," said Joyce Oleszek, M.D., Professor, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine. "There is an urgent need for more robust evidence to support pharmacologic treatments for this condition, given its profound impact on function, comfort and quality of life." Ongoing Research Clinical studies are important in the development of treatment options, allowing researchers to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new medicines. The data from clinical studies are used to determine if an investigational treatment can be approved for use to treat certain disorders. There are ongoing clinical studies evaluating potential treatments for DCP, including one for chorea. Neurocrine Biosciences is conducting the KINECT ® -DCP clinical study, a Phase 3, randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study investigating the study drug, valbenazine, for the treatment of DCP. The clinical study is currently enrolling children, adolescents and adults six to 70 years of age who have been diagnosed with DCP. "The Cerebral Palsy Foundation is excited to partner with Neurocrine Biosciences on this study," said Rachel Byrne, Executive Director of the Cerebral Palsy Foundation. "We are proud to support strong research that can potentially bring meaningful change to the lives of those living with cerebral palsy." If you or someone you know may be eligible for this research study, please visit the study website for additional information here: FindADCPStudy.com . REFERENCES © 2024 Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. All Rights Reserved. CAP-NBI-US-0115 12/2024 NBI-98854-DCP3018_11DecMatRelease_v1.0_25November2024

Following the recent election of Donald Trump as the next president of the U.S., the Biden administration is racing to approve huge quantities of green funding to ensure the U.S. gets the best chance possible at a green transition. The Biden government’s far-reaching climate policy, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), is under threat as President-elect Trump has repeatedly threatened to cut spending on renewable energy and clean tech in favour of greater fossil fuel production. The government is, therefore, racing to advance clean energy before Trump’s inauguration in January. The Loan Programs Office at the Department of Energy (DoE) is working to finalise as many loans as possible before the change of government in January, as its future looks uncertain. During Biden’s leadership, the office announced around $54 billion in loans or loan guarantees, which is just a small portion of its total lending power, for projects such as the and . However, the office has closed just $13.5 billion of the deals to date. Kennedy Nickerson, a former policy adviser to the loan programs office, , “They see the writing on the wall... They want to get out as much money as possible just to safeguard as much progress as they can.” Companies expecting a payout from the Loan Office are now worried that loans could be delayed or stopped under the new Trump administration. In addition to losing out on critical funds and threats to the advancement of the U.S. green transition, some company leaders believe that if their projects are delayed it leaves space for China to move ahead, which could be detrimental to U.S. geopolitical aims . Following the passing of the IRA in 2022, the Loan Programs Office was made responsible for the distribution of up to $400 million in funding. The office, which was established in 2009, has input from thousands of experts at the DoE, making it better prepared to assess green energy and clean tech projects than most commercial banks. Since Biden’s inauguration in January 2021, the office has approved $34 billion in loans for the electric vehicle (EV) and battery industries, aiming to counter China’s dominance in the global market. Funds have been awarded to battery manufacturers and automakers, to strengthen domestic EV and battery supply chains. It has also provided financing for several novel technologies to drive innovation that could help advance the U.S. green transition. The office is now racing to finalise various funding decisions for fear that Trump may attempt to halt green spending once in office. In his July Party , Trump stated his intention to DRILL, BABY, DRILL.” He said, “We will become Energy Independent, and even Dominant again. The United States has more liquid gold under our feet than any other Nation, and it’s not even close. The Republican Party will harness that potential to power our future.” During his first term in office, Trump and withdrew the U.S. from the , which it had joined in 2015. He also sought to establish more opportunities for new drilling on federal land and offshore drilling. Trump has been adamant about his intention to halt programmes and funding from the IRA. “My plan will terminate the Green New Deal, which I call the Green New Scam. Greatest scam in history, probably,” Trump in a September speech. He also plans to overturn on vehicles, , and household appliances. The rush to approve funds has been criticised by the opposition in recent weeks. A from three House Republicans addressed to the head of the Loan Programs Office, Jigar Shah, stated, “The last-minute drive to expedite loans exposes the federal government — and American taxpayers — to tremendous risk.” Shah responded by , “Our process remains the same... We continue to do everything with a fine-toothed comb. But right now, borrowers are sufficiently motivated to move more quickly.” The rush to finalise funding decisions started even before the November presidential election when the office recognised the potential shift in policy approach. In October, Katie Harris with BlueGreen Alliance, a coalition of union and environmental groups, , “The Biden-Harris administration is trying to get this money out the door and get it fully obligated.” Harris added, “It’s quite the undertaking.” By early September, $61 billion in climate funding had been awarded across several government departments, such as the Environmental Protection Agency, with much of it allocated this year. This figure does not include the significant that have been awarded. While it will be impossible to complete all the pending loans under the Loan Programs Office and other government agencies, the Biden administration is making a clear effort to distribute the funding as quickly as the bureaucratic process will allow to ensure that the U.S. is given the best possible chance at a green transition. By Felicity Bradstock for Oilprice.comSpending squeeze ‘could cost more than 10,000 Civil Service jobs’

FBI director to resignSpending squeeze ‘could cost more than 10,000 Civil Service jobs’

Australia CFTC AUD NC Net Positions climbed from previous $29.8K to $31.6KAmerican Graphite Producers File Trade Case with U.S. Government Over Anticompetitive Graphite Prices on Chinese Exports

Galaxy Asset Management: November 2024 Month End AUMThe Transportation Security Administration has some reminders for those heading to airports during the holidays. “People seem to forget some of the more common and routine steps that they need to take when packing for a flight or when they are going through a checkpoint, perhaps because they’re focused on being at their destination and not focusing on what needs to happen before getting there,” said TSA officer Christopher Kirchein of John F. Kennedy International Airport. “Travelers sometimes ignore the advice that we give them,” said TeaNeisha Barker, a TSA uniformed adviser. “We are providing guidance so that they get through the checkpoint as simply and conveniently as possible. Not every airport has the same technology, so listen to the guidance we are offering.” “Passengers forget that knives and other weapons are not allowed through our checkpoints. It’s shocking to see so many people with knives,” said TSA officer Aisha Hicks of Philadelphia International Airport. “Weapons of any kind are prohibited through a TSA checkpoint.” TSA officers shared this list of the common things that travelers forget and should remember when coming to a security checkpoint. Ten things that travelers need to remember when preparing to go through the security screening process: • Remember that you cannot bring bottles of water, energy drinks, juice, coffee, soda or any filled insulated reusable container through a security checkpoint. However, they can finish their beverage and bring the empty bottle or container with them. • Remember to bring your ID to the checkpoint. • Remember when TSA officers remind you to remove everything from your pockets that it does not only mean metallic items such as keys and mobile phones, but it means everything, including non-metallic items such as tissues, lip balm, breath mints, etc. • Remember that you cannot bring a firearm through a checkpoint. Instead, pack your unloaded firearm in a locked hard-sided case and declare it at your airline check-in counter and the airline will ensure it is transported in the belly of the plane where nobody has access to it. • Remember that you need to remove your shoes when getting screened and then end up barefoot on the floor. It’s probably a good idea to wear socks. • Remember that children 12 and under are allowed to travel through a TSA PreCheck screening lane with a parent who has TSA PreCheck on their boarding pass. In addition, don’t forget that children up to the age of 18 can also come into the TSA PreCheck lane with their parent if they are on the same airline reservation as their parent. • Remember that passengers that appear 12 and under or 75 and older do not need to remove their shoes and light jacket. • Remember, if you are putting a lock on your luggage, make sure it is a TSA compatible lock so that if TSA officers need to open your luggage, they can unlock it and relock it. If the lock is not TSA compliant, TSA officers who need to open your luggage will cut off the lock, rendering it useless. • Remember that you can bring medications through a security checkpoint, even liquid medication. Just let the TSA officer know that you have liquid medication with you so it can be screened separately. • Remember to get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license sooner rather than later because REAL ID goes into effect on May 7.Man arrested for assault on South Carolina congresswoman

The simple network definition: a system that links other subsystems together and allows them to share information and resources. Computer networks are the technology interconnecting software, allowing you to do things like print a document from your laptop or send your business partner a signed contract over email. Imagine networks as a fabric of interconnected paths where data travels from one device to another. These paths also have rules to exchange data, known as communication protocols. In reality, the answer isn’t as straightforward as that. Depending on the purpose, various types of networks, topologies, and components exist. We’ll provide a basic guide to help you grasp the foundations of networks — what each network is, its basic functionality, and why we use networks. Why we use networks every day Networks are designed to connect systems so they can exchange information. Here are some of the reasons why we use networks and the tangible benefits they provide. Resource sharing: This is one of the primary advantages and one of the network’s fundamental uses. Connecting devices allows us to easily share files, documents, and other resources. It’s not even about digital assets. Tired of waiting for the printer? Networks let multiple devices share a single printer. Increased information storage: Networks allow us to access and store data on centralized servers. For instance, they allow you to tune in to your favorite song, even if you don’t have it on a physical record. Cost savings: Since networks create a virtual space where every point connected to it is instantly accessible, it can slash several expenses, including the cost of shipping software on a CD versus sending a download link. Performance management: This one is a given for companies with tight cybersecurity governance. Networks make it easy to manage software updates, security patches, and backups on multiple devices all at once. No more running around updating each device individually. Collaboration: Through shared drives, cloud-based collaboration tools, and video conferencing, teams can collaborate effectively, even if they are miles apart. Think of it as having a virtual office space accessible from anywhere in the world. Accessibility: Networks provide easy access to information and resources. With a network connection, you can access the internet, browse websites, and gather information from anywhere in the world. Increased productivity: Not only do they save you money, but they also save you time, allowing you to do multiple things at once and quickly. For instance, networks allow us to check our bank account while riding the bus instead of going down to a physical branch. SEE: Learn more about essential networking fundamentals . Every network definition you should know Here are some standard terms and concepts to better understand computer networks. Nodes: In a network, a node refers to any connected device that can participate in communication. This includes computers, laptops, servers, printers, or almost every other endpoint. Nodes are the building blocks of a network. They work together to transmit and receive data. TCP/IP: The abbreviation is Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol. It’s a set of rules and protocols that enable communication between devices over the internet. TCP handles reliability, and IP takes care of the directions. Layers: In networking, layers refer to the different levels or stages that define how networks function, with each layer handling a specific aspect of communication. The OSI model , a widely recognized framework, breaks down network processes into seven distinct layers, from physical transmission to application-level interaction. Firewalls: Firewalls serve as a protective shield for a network . They watch the traffic coming in and going out, filtering and blocking anything that could be harmful. This was classically built upon presets, but increasingly relies on machine learning — which depends on networks. Servers: Client–server is the typical network architecture in computers. A server is just that — a computer that serves a function. So when you browse through your emails in a web browser — a client — you’re actually fetching files from an email server. You don’t have your emails stored anywhere. The server does that for you. When you stream a movie, you’re obtaining it from a company’s servers. Wireless: Wireless networks provide a cable-free way for devices to connect and communicate. They use technologies like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to send data through the airwaves. Network building blocks Now, we’ll explore the fundamental building blocks of computer networks: devices, links, and communication protocols. Network devices Network devices are the physical components that enable communication and connectivity within a computer network. These items play a crucial role in transmitting and receiving data between nodes. Here are some standard network devices: Routers: Routers direct data traffic between networks , allowing different devices to connect to the internet or communicate with each other. They enable both wired (Ethernet) and wireless (Wi-Fi) connections, ensuring data is routed efficiently to its destination, whether within a local network or across the internet. Modems: Devices that connect your home or office network to an Internet Service Provider (ISP), converting digital data from your devices into signals that can be transmitted over the internet, and vice versa. In many households, modems and routers are combined into a single device, providing both the connection to the ISP and the ability to distribute internet access via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Switches: Switches link devices in a network, forming a local area network (LAN) for smooth communication. They use MAC addresses to identify and direct data packets to the correct destinations, ensuring efficient connectivity. Hubs: Hubs are the simplest form of network devices. They’ve been slowly replaced by switches, but you can notice hubs when looking for a Wi-Fi extender. Wireless Access Points (WAPs): WAPs facilitate the connection of wireless devices to a wired network by transmitting and receiving data wirelessly. Network Interface Cards (NICs): NICs are hardware components that enable devices to connect to a network. They are typically built into computers and other devices or can be added as expansion cards. It’s rare these days for a laptop not to have a NIC built-in. Businesses may use a hardware firewall or additional security appliances to secure their network, though software firewalls may be sufficient. Learn more about how a firewall protects a home network and the different types of firewalls used to secure business networks . Links In computer networks, links refer to the physical or logical connections between network devices. These connections enable the transmission of data between devices. Think of them as the arteries of a living organism. They can be categorized as: Wired connections: Links that utilize physical cables like twisted-pair, which is typical of Ethernet, coaxial, or optical fiber, offering high bandwidth and reliable transmission. Wireless connections: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or satellite are some ways networks reach devices. These link variants use methods, including but not limited to radio frequency, to avoid coppering up. Communication protocols Communication protocols are the rules for exchanging data. These protocols ensure that devices can understand and interpret the data being exchanged. Here are some commonly used communication protocols: TCP/IP: Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol is a set of communication protocols that enable communication between devices over the internet, forming the foundation of most network communications. HTTP/HTTPS: Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is used for transmitting web pages and resources over the internet, while HTTPS is the secure, encrypted version of HTTP, ensuring data privacy during web transactions. HTTPS has been the standard for many years now . SMTP: Simple Mail Transfer Protocol is used for sending and receiving email messages, primarily for outgoing email. FTP: File Transfer Protocol is used for transferring files between devices on a network, allowing for easy sharing and retrieval of data. RTP: Real-time Transport Protocol is used to deliver audio and video over IP networks, commonly used in video conferencing, streaming, and VoIP communications. UDP: User Datagram Protocol is a connectionless protocol used for real-time applications like audio and video conferencing, where speed is crucial and occasional data loss is acceptable. VoIP: Voice over Internet Protocol enables voice communication over the internet, replacing traditional telephone systems with internet-based services. SIP: Session Initiation Protocol is used to initiate, maintain, and terminate real-time sessions for voice, video, and messaging applications, often used in VoIP systems. IMAP/POP3: Internet Message Access Protocol/Post Office Protocol are used by email clients to retrieve messages from email servers. IMAP allows for server-side storage and synchronization across devices, while POP3 downloads emails to local devices. SNMP: Simple Network Management Protocol is used for managing and monitoring network devices such as routers, switches, and servers, providing network administrators with data about network health and performance. DHCP: Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network, simplifying network configuration and management. Network definitions for each type of network We’ve established the essential building blocks of networks, but now let’s explore the network types. Each network fulfills a specific purpose. Some are more common than others. LAN, WAN, WLAN, SAN, and VPN are the terms from this list you’ll come across most often. The other ones are much less likely to show up. 1. PAN (Personal Area Network) A Personal Area Network connects devices near an individual, typically within a range of a few feet. Examples include Bluetooth connections for headphones or syncing a smartphone with a smartwatch. While often not connected to the internet, PANs make it possible to link devices quickly and securely for personal use. 2. LAN (Local Area Network) A Local Area Network is a network that links devices in a small area like a home, office, or campus. Usually, one person or organization owns and runs the LAN. It lets devices in the network share things like printers or files, or play multiplayer games without the internet. LANs are fundamental to most business environments, offering a fast and secure way to handle local communications and data sharing. Suppose you set up a Wi-Fi connection at your office without an internet connection because you still haven’t decided on your ISP. In that case, you’ll still notice that LAN-ready software can connect with any other device also connected to the network. 3. WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) WLAN is a type of LAN that uses wireless technology, such as Wi-Fi, to connect devices without the need to wire up. This type of network is ideal for providing flexible connectivity across offices or homes, making it possible to access data and resources from almost anywhere within the network’s range. 4. VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) A VLAN is a logical subgroup within a LAN that isolates traffic for security, efficiency, or organizational reasons. It allows companies to segment their network without needing additional physical infrastructure. By grouping devices into separate virtual networks, VLANs improve security by isolating sensitive data, enable better control over network resources, and reduce congestion on the main network. For example, running voice traffic on a VLAN that’s separate from other business activity is one of the most common tactics for optimizing a VoIP network . 5. WAN (Wide Area Network) A WAN is a network that covers large geographic distances, such as connecting multiple offices across cities, countries, or continents. WANs allow businesses to connect remote locations and share resources securely, ensuring employees and departments can work together no matter where they are located. Learn more about the differences between LAN vs WAN . 4. CAN (Campus Area Network) CAN is a network that interconnects multiple LANs within a limited geographical area, such as a university campus or corporate office complex. This network type facilitates high-speed communication between various buildings or departments, providing a streamlined way for large organizations or educational institutions to connect and share resources across a wider area. 5. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) A MAN spans a larger area than a LAN or CAN, typically covering a city or metropolitan area. It connects multiple LANs or CANs within a broader geographical region, often used by businesses or government organizations to link offices in different parts of a city. With the rise of 5G and other modern technologies, MANs have become less common, as other solutions have emerged to offer faster, more flexible options. 7. SAN (Storage Area Network) A Storage Area Network (SAN) is a dedicated network that provides access to shared storage. Used primarily in data centers, SANs allow multiple servers to connect to shared storage devices, ensuring fast and reliable data access across an organization. This network type is essential for businesses with large volumes of data, allowing them to scale their storage capabilities without impacting overall network performance. 8. VPN (Virtual Private Network) A VPN allows users to create a secure, encrypted connection to a private network over the public internet. This network type is commonly used for remote work, as it provides employees with safe access to internal company resources, such as files or applications, from virtually any location. By using encryption, VPNs ensure data privacy and protect sensitive information while users are connected remotely. Some organizations can only send or receive emails either on a corporate network or via a VPN. Network topologies Think of a network topology like a map for how devices are connected in a network. Just as a city’s road layout affects traffic flow, a network’s topology determines how data moves, how devices communicate, and how efficient or resilient the network is. The layout directly impacts a network’s performance, scalability, and purpose. When selecting a network topology, there’s always a balance between simplicity, efficiency, and scalability, as each choice brings its own set of benefits and trade-offs. Here are some of the most common network topologies and the scenarios where they work best Bus topology Imagine a single data highway connecting all devices. In a bus topology, all network nodes are directly connected to a main cable called the bus. The nodes share the same communication medium, and messages are broadcast to all nodes on the bus. Best for: Small home networks, temporary setups, and low-budget environments. Star topology Picture all devices orbiting a central hub or switch. In a star topology, each device connects directly to a central node, transmitting and receiving data through it. This design offers scalability and reliability, as individual device failures don’t affect the entire network. Best for: Small and medium-sized businesses, educational institutions, and office environments. Ring topology In a ring topology, network nodes are connected circularly, forming a closed loop. Each node is connected to its neighboring nodes, and data travels in one direction around the ring. Think of devices holding hands in a circle. Best for: Industrial control systems , secure facilities, and dedicated networks with specific data flow needs. Mesh topology In mesh networks , every network node is connected to every other node, establishing a fully interconnected network. Not long ago, this topology was considered sophisticated and earmarked for specific business applications. However, many homes and small offices now count on mesh Wi-Fi networks thanks to affordable consumer devices. Best for: Large corporations, campuses, and mission-critical networks that power secure IoT operations . It can also work in small offices with continuous signal strength problems, though. Computer network architecture Network architecture defines the structure and flow of data within a network, and it plays a pivotal role in determining how efficiently systems can perform, scale, and secure operations. Just like selecting the layout of a building influences its functionality, the choice of network architecture affects everything from data handling to security protocols, scalability, and application performance. Below are some of the most common types of network architectures: Client–server architecture: In this architecture, a central server provides services and resources to multiple client devices. Common in both business networks and everyday applications, this setup allows clients to request data or services from the server, which processes and returns the requested information. Peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture: Here, devices act as both clients and servers, allowing them to share resources directly with each other. Ideal for smaller networks or file-sharing applications, P2P eliminates the need for a central server but may struggle with scalability and security in larger networks. Three-tier architecture: This structure separates the network into three layers: presentation, application, and data. Common in web applications, it allows for improved manageability by abstracting different functions and enabling each layer to operate independently, making it easier to scale and modify without affecting other layers. Distributed architecture: Unlike centralized models, distributed architecture spreads data and processing tasks across multiple locations or nodes. This architecture offers increased fault tolerance and reliability, as the failure of one node does not compromise the entire system, making it ideal for large-scale operations such as cloud computing or content delivery networks. Microservices architecture: Focused on breaking down applications into smaller, manageable services, microservices architecture enables flexibility and scalability . Each service runs independently and communicates over APIs, allowing businesses to update and scale individual services without affecting the entire system, commonly used in cloud-based environments. Virtualized architecture: In virtualized networks, resources and network functions are abstracted from the physical hardware. Managed through software-defined networking (SDN), this architecture allows for greater flexibility in managing resources, enabling network administrators to allocate bandwidth or adjust configurations on the fly without needing to change the physical setup. As we’ve seen, each architecture has its strengths and trade-offs, from the simplicity of client-server setups to the flexibility of microservices and the scalability of distributed networks. Knowing when to apply these distinctions empowers organizations to tailor their infrastructure for local operations, remote access, or cloud integration. Understanding the trade-offs between different network types, topologies, and architectures is essential for making informed decisions. Whether it’s balancing scalability with cost, security with accessibility, or speed with flexibility, each networking option comes with its own set of benefits and limitations. These trade-offs never go away, but they do evolve as technology changes and threat actors are exploiting vulnerabilities faster than ever . The better you can understand the fundamental give-and-take between different designs, the better chance you have of contributing to a hardened network security architecture.Nevada’s has accused its former legal representation of a conflict of interest in its patent dispute with California’s , and filed a motion to have the firm disqualified from the case. The concerns a of Willful Patent Infringement by Jumio Corporation, filed on June 14, 2024. Per the text, “FaceTec alleges herein that Defendant Jumio makes, uses, offers for sale and sells in the United States products, systems, and/or services that infringe one or more claims of each of the FaceTec Patents-in-Suit.” Said patents include a broad scope of tech classified as liveness assurance, liveness checks, and pretty well everything associated with biometric liveness detection software. In another twist, the actual tech that FaceTec says infringes on their patent belongs to the UK’s . Having explored a partnership in 2019, parted ways. Jumio pursued a with iProov, which, per the complaint, “thereafter deployed for Jumio a liveness detection technology that infringes on FaceTec’s patent rights.” FaceTec over the infringement in 2021, prompting iProov to file a countersuit in 2022. Now FaceTec claims that Jumio, having failed at prior efforts to develop its own , is using FaceTec’s proprietary liveness detection as a model. “Like iProov’s infringing liveness detection technology – and for similar reasons – Jumio’s own-branded liveness detection technologies include multiple aspects that are copied directly from FaceTec and that infringe the FaceTec Patents-in-Suit.” Having crawled through the Northern District of California court system, the case has now reached a boil, with FaceTec calling out its former legal representative, , for representing Jumio in the dispute. FaceTec says that since the firm has previously represented it in matters concerning the same patent, its working for Jumio constitutes a – and a “betrayal.” “Defendant Jumio is well aware of both FaceTec and its patented technology,” it says. “Jumio is a direct competitor of FaceTec and provides competing biometric liveness detection software products.” With Perkins Coie having crossed the floor, FaceTec Washinton’s , Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, among the world’s largest IP law firms, as international counsel. | | | | |Tinubu, ECOWAS celebrate Ghana’s President-elect John Mahama’s victory

China economy ends 2024 on mixed note amid Trump 2.0 concernsSports on TV for Monday, Dec. 9

Sir Keir Starmer has been warned by a trade union not to impose “blunt headcount targets” for the size of the Civil Service but Government sources insisted there would be no set limit, although the number “cannot keep growing”. Departments have been ordered to find 5% “efficiency savings” as part of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ spending review, potentially putting jobs at risk. The size of the Civil Service has increased from a low of around 384,000 in mid-2016, and the Tories went into the general election promising to reduce numbers by 70,000 to fund extra defence spending. Any reduction under Labour would be more modest, with the Guardian reporting more than 10,000 jobs could be lost. A Government spokesman said: “Under our plan for change, we are making sure every part of government is delivering on working people’s priorities — delivering growth, putting more money in people’s pockets, getting the NHS back on its feet, rebuilding Britain and securing our borders in a decade of national renewal. “We are committed to making the Civil Service more efficient and effective, with bold measures to improve skills and harness new technologies.” Mike Clancy, general secretary of the Prospect trade union said: “We need a clear plan for the future of the civil service that goes beyond the blunt headcount targets that have failed in the past. “This plan needs to be developed in partnership with civil servants and their unions, and we look forward to deeper engagement with the government in the coming months.” A Government source said: “The number of civil servants cannot keep growing. “But we will not set an arbitrary cap. “The last government tried that and ended up spending loads on more expensive consultants.” The Government is already risking a confrontation with unions over proposals to limit pay rises for more than a million public servants to 2.8%, a figure only just over the projected 2.6% rate of inflation next year. Unions representing teachers, doctors and nurses have condemned the proposals. In the face of the union backlash, Downing Street said the public sector must improve productivity to justify real-terms pay increases. The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “It’s vital that pay awards are fair for both taxpayers and workers.” Asked whether higher pay settlements to staff would mean departmental cuts elsewhere, the spokesman said: “Real-terms pay increases must be matched by productivity gains and departments will only be able to fund pay awards above inflation over the medium-term if they become more productive and workforces become more productive.” TUC general secretary Paul Nowak said: “It’s hard to see how you address the crisis in our services without meaningful pay rises. “And it’s hard to see how services cut to the bone by 14 years of Tory government will find significant cash savings. “The Government must now engage unions and the millions of public sector workers we represent in a serious conversation about public service reform and delivery.”

Germany has pledged to tighten its law to make it easier to prosecute people-smugglers enabling small-boat crossings to Britain, as the two countries signed a new deal aimed at tackling immigration crime. Berlin confirmed plans to reform its legal framework make it a clear criminal offence to “facilitate the smuggling of migrants to the UK” as part of the agreement, the Home Office said. The Home Office said the move would give German prosecutors more tools to tackle the supply and storage of dangerous small boats. Both countries will also commit to exchange information that may help to remove migrant-smuggling content from social media platforms and tackle end-to-end routes of criminal smuggling networks as part of the deal. It comes ahead of the UK and Germany hosting the so-called Calais Group in London, which sees ministers and police from the two countries, alongside France, Belgium and the Netherlands, gather to discuss migration in Europe. Delegates are expected to agree a detailed plan to tackle people-smuggling gangs in 2025 at the meeting on Tuesday. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “For too long organised criminal gangs have been exploiting vulnerable people, undermining border security in the UK and across Europe while putting thousands of lives at risk. “We are clear that this cannot go on. “Germany is already a key partner in our efforts to crack down on migrant smuggling, but there is always more we can do together. “Our new joint action plan with deliver a strengthened partnership with Germany, boosting our respective border security as we work to fix the foundations, and ultimately saving lives.” Nancy Faeser, German federal minister of the interior said: “We are now stepping up our joint action to fight the brutal activities of international smugglers. “This is at the core of our joint action plan that we have agreed in London. “I am very grateful to my British counterpart Yvette Cooper that we were able to reach this important agreement. “It will help us end the inhumane activities of criminal migrant smuggling organisations. “By cramming people into inflatable boats under threats of violence and sending them across the Channel, these organisations put human lives at risk. “Many of these crimes are planned in Germany. “Together, we are now countering this unscrupulous business with even more resolve. “This includes maintaining a high investigative pressure, exchanging information between our security authorities as best as possible, and persistently investigating financial flows to identify the criminals operating behind the scenes.”

Last week, UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was shot to death on a New York City sidewalk in what was clearly a thoroughly planned-out attack. Over the next few days, as authorities hunted for the killer, online progressives did not try hard to hide their delight that a millionaire health insurance executive like Thompson was killed. Social media was flooded with posts and videos—with different ranges of subtlety—suggesting that Thompson, at the very least, did not deserve to be mourned because of all the health care his company has denied to poor and working people. Progressives framed the shooting as an act of self-defense on behalf of the working class. Before the alleged killer was caught Monday, they promised not to snitch if they saw the shooter themselves and fantasized about a working-class jury nullifying all charges, leading to other CEOs getting gunned down with impunity if they oversaw price increases. The narrative that these online progressives clearly subscribe to and perpetuate is one where, in the United States, healthcare is a totally unfettered, unregulated industry; where—because of a total lack of government involvement—wealthy CEOs charge whatever prices they want and then refuse to provide customers what they already paid for without facing any bad consequences. The characterization of healthcare and health insurance companies charging absurdly high prices while treating their customers terribly without the risk of losing them is spot on. But the idea that what caused this was a lack of government involvement in the healthcare system is completely delusional. And this delusion conveniently removes all the responsibility progressives bear for the nightmare that is the US healthcare system. Today, healthcare is one of the most heavily government-regulated industries in the economy—right up there with the finance and energy sectors. Government agencies are involved in all parts of the process, from the research and production of drugs, the training and licensing of medical professionals, and the building of hospitals to the availability of health insurance, the makeup of insurance plans, and the complicated payment processes. And that is nothing new. The US government has been intervening heavily in the healthcare industry for over a century. And no group has done more to bring this about than the progressives. It really began, after all, during the Progressive Era, when the American Medical Association maneuvered its way into setting the official accreditation standards for the nation’s “unregulated” medical schools. The AMA wrote standards that excluded the medical approaches of their competitors, which forced half of the nation’s medical schools to close. The new shortage of trained doctors drove up the price of medical services—to the delight of the AMA and other government-recognized doctor’s groups—setting the familiar healthcare affordability crisis in motion. Around the same time, progressives successfully pushed for strict restrictions on the production of drugs and, shortly afterward, to grant drug producers monopoly privileges. After WWII, as healthcare grew more expensive, the government used the tax code to warp how Americans paid for healthcare. Under President Truman, the IRS made employer-provided health insurance tax deductible while continuing to tax other means of payment. It didn’t take long for employer plans to become the dominant arrangement and for health insurance to morph away from actual insurance into a general third-party payment system. These government interventions restricting the supply of medical care and privileging insurance over other payment methods created a real affordability problem for many Americans. But the crisis didn’t really start until the 1960s when Congress passed two of the progressive’s favorite government programs—Medicare and Medicaid. Initially, industry groups like the AMA opposed Medicare and Medicaid because they believed the government subsidies would deteriorate the quality of care. They were right about that, but what they clearly didn’t anticipate was how rich the programs would make them. Anyone who’s taken even a single introductory economics class could tell you that prices will rise if supply decreases or demand increases. The government was already keeping the supply of medical services artificially low—leading to artificially high prices. Medicare and Medicaid left those shortages in place and poured a ton of tax dollars into the healthcare sector—significantly increasing demand. The result was an easily predictable explosion in the cost of healthcare. Fewer and fewer people could afford healthcare at these rising prices, meaning more people required government assistance, which meant more demand, causing prices to grow faster and faster. Meanwhile, private health “insurance” providers were also benefiting from the mounting crisis. In a free market, insurance serves as a means to trade risk. Insurance works well for accidents and calamities that are hard to predict individually but relatively easy to predict in bulk, like car accidents, house fires, and unexpected family deaths. Health insurance providers were already being subsidized by all the taxes on competing means of payment, which allowed their plans to grow beyond the typical bounds of insurance and begin to cover easily-predictable occurrences like annual physicals. And, as the price of all of these services continued to shoot up, the costs of these routine procedures were becoming high enough to resemble the costs of emergencies—making consumers even more reliant on insurance. With progressives cheering on, the political class used government intervention to create a healthcare system that behaves as if its sole purpose is to move as much money as possible into the pockets of healthcare providers, drug companies, hospitals, health-related federal agencies, and insurance providers. But the party could not last forever. As the price of healthcare rose, the price of health insurance rose, too. Eventually, when insurance premiums grew too high, fewer employers or individual buyers were willing to buy insurance, and the flow of money into the healthcare system started to falter. The data suggests that that tipping point was reached in the early 2000s. For the first time since the cycle began back in the 1960s, the number of people with health insurance began to fall each year. Healthcare providers—who had seemingly assumed that the flow of money would never stop increasing—began to panic. Then came Barack Obama. Obama’s seminal legislative accomplishment—the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare—can best be understood as a ploy by healthcare providers and the government to keep the party going. Obamacare required all fifty million uninsured Americans to obtain insurance, and it greatly expanded what these “insurance” companies covered. Demand for healthcare shot back up, and the vicious cycle started back up again—which is why the bill enjoyed so much support from big corporations all across the healthcare industry. Before it was passed, economists were practically screaming that the Affordable Care Act would make care less affordable by raising premiums and healthcare prices while making shortages worse. Progressives dismissed such concerns as Reagan-era “free market fundamentalist” propaganda. But that is exactly what happened . Now, the affordability crisis is worse than ever as prices reach historic levels. And, because Obamacare brought American healthcare much closer to a single-payer system, the demand for healthcare far exceeds the supply of healthcare—leading to deadly shortages. There are literally not enough resources or available medical professionals to treat everyone who can pay for care. Also, the tax code and warped “insurance” market protect these providers from competition—making it almost impossible for people to switch to a different provider after their claims are unfairly denied. If it were simply greed, denying customers who already paid would be a feature in all industries. But it’s not. It requires the kind of policy protections progressives helped implement. And on top of all that, despite paying all this money, Americans are quickly becoming one of the sickest populations on Earth. This is one of the most pressing problems facing the country. A problem that requires immediate, radical change to solve. But it also requires an accurate and precise diagnosis—something that, this week, progressives demonstrated they are incapable of making. Related Articles Commentary | John Stossel: Your tax dollars not at work Commentary | After so many years of failure, time’s up for California Democrats Commentary | Vince Fong: We don’t need Newsom to lecture us. We need him to listen to us. Commentary | Deregulation rather than fossil fuel controls needed to fix California insurance market Commentary | The FBI has been political from the start The American progressive movement is responsible for providing the political class the intellectual cover they needed to break the healthcare market and transform the entire system into a means to transfer wealth to people like Brian Thompson. Now, they want to sit back, pretend like they’ve never gotten their way, that the government has never done anything with the healthcare market, and that these healthcare executives just popped up and started doing this all on their own—all so they can celebrate him being gunned down in the street. It’s disgusting. Brian Thompson acted exactly like every economically literate person over the last fifty years has said health insurance CEOs would act if progressives got their way. If we’re ever going to see the end of this century-long nightmare, we need to start listening to the people who have gotten it right, not those who pretend they are blameless as they fantasize online about others starting a violent revolution. Connor O’Keeffe ( @ConnorMOKeeffe ) produces media and content at the Mises Institute. This commentary is republished with permission from the Mises Institute.ATLANTA (AP) — Jimmy Carter, the peanut farmer who won the presidency in the wake of the Watergate scandal and Vietnam War, endured humbling defeat after one tumultuous term and then redefined life after the White House as a global humanitarian, has died. He was 100 years old. The longest-lived American president died on Sunday, more than a year after entering hospice care , at his home in the small town of Plains, Georgia, where he and his wife, Rosalynn, who died at 96 in November 2023 , spent most of their lives, The Carter Center said. Businessman, Navy officer, evangelist, politician, negotiator, author, woodworker, citizen of the world — Carter forged a path that still challenges political assumptions and stands out among the 45 men who reached the nation’s highest office. The 39th president leveraged his ambition with a keen intellect, deep religious faith and prodigious work ethic, conducting diplomatic missions into his 80s and building houses for the poor well into his 90s. “My faith demands — this is not optional — my faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can, with whatever I have to try to make a difference,” Carter once said. A president from Plains A moderate Democrat, Carter entered the 1976 presidential race as a little-known Georgia governor with a broad smile, outspoken Baptist mores and technocratic plans reflecting his education as an engineer. His no-frills campaign depended on public financing, and his promise not to deceive the American people resonated after Richard Nixon’s disgrace and U.S. defeat in southeast Asia. “If I ever lie to you, if I ever make a misleading statement, don’t vote for me. I would not deserve to be your president,” Carter repeated before narrowly beating Republican incumbent Gerald Ford, who had lost popularity pardoning Nixon. Carter governed amid Cold War pressures, turbulent oil markets and social upheaval over racism, women’s rights and America’s global role. His most acclaimed achievement in office was a Mideast peace deal that he brokered by keeping Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin at the bargaining table for 13 days in 1978. That Camp David experience inspired the post-presidential center where Carter would establish so much of his legacy. Yet Carter’s electoral coalition splintered under double-digit inflation, gasoline lines and the 444-day hostage crisis in Iran. His bleakest hour came when eight Americans died in a failed hostage rescue in April 1980, helping to ensure his landslide defeat to Republican Ronald Reagan. Carter acknowledged in his 2020 “White House Diary” that he could be “micromanaging” and “excessively autocratic,” complicating dealings with Congress and the federal bureaucracy. He also turned a cold shoulder to Washington’s news media and lobbyists, not fully appreciating their influence on his political fortunes. “It didn’t take us long to realize that the underestimation existed, but by that time we were not able to repair the mistake,” Carter told historians in 1982, suggesting that he had “an inherent incompatibility” with Washington insiders. Carter insisted his overall approach was sound and that he achieved his primary objectives — to “protect our nation’s security and interests peacefully” and “enhance human rights here and abroad” — even if he fell spectacularly short of a second term. And then, the world Ignominious defeat, though, allowed for renewal. The Carters founded The Carter Center in 1982 as a first-of-its-kind base of operations, asserting themselves as international peacemakers and champions of democracy, public health and human rights. “I was not interested in just building a museum or storing my White House records and memorabilia,” Carter wrote in a memoir published after his 90th birthday. “I wanted a place where we could work.” That work included easing nuclear tensions in North and South Korea, helping to avert a U.S. invasion of Haiti and negotiating cease-fires in Bosnia and Sudan. By 2022, The Carter Center had declared at least 113 elections in Latin America, Asia and Africa to be free or fraudulent. Recently, the center began monitoring U.S. elections as well. Carter’s stubborn self-assuredness and even self-righteousness proved effective once he was unencumbered by the Washington order, sometimes to the point of frustrating his successors . He went “where others are not treading,” he said, to places like Ethiopia, Liberia and North Korea, where he secured the release of an American who had wandered across the border in 2010. “I can say what I like. I can meet whom I want. I can take on projects that please me and reject the ones that don’t,” Carter said. He announced an arms-reduction-for-aid deal with North Korea without clearing the details with Bill Clinton’s White House. He openly criticized President George W. Bush for the 2003 invasion of Iraq. He also criticized America’s approach to Israel with his 2006 book “Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid.” And he repeatedly countered U.S. administrations by insisting North Korea should be included in international affairs, a position that most aligned Carter with Republican President Donald Trump. Among the center’s many public health initiatives, Carter vowed to eradicate the guinea worm parasite during his lifetime, and nearly achieved it: Cases dropped from millions in the 1980s to nearly a handful. With hardhats and hammers, the Carters also built homes with Habitat for Humanity. The Nobel committee’s 2002 Peace Prize cites his “untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.” Carter should have won it alongside Sadat and Begin in 1978, the chairman added. Carter accepted the recognition saying there was more work to be done. “The world is now, in many ways, a more dangerous place,” he said. “The greater ease of travel and communication has not been matched by equal understanding and mutual respect.” ‘An epic American life’ Carter’s globetrotting took him to remote villages where he met little “Jimmy Carters,” so named by admiring parents. But he spent most of his days in the same one-story Plains house — expanded and guarded by Secret Service agents — where they lived before he became governor. He regularly taught Sunday School lessons at Maranatha Baptist Church until his mobility declined and the coronavirus pandemic raged. Those sessions drew visitors from around the world to the small sanctuary where Carter will receive his final send-off after a state funeral at Washington’s National Cathedral. The common assessment that he was a better ex-president than president rankled Carter and his allies. His prolific post-presidency gave him a brand above politics, particularly for Americans too young to witness him in office. But Carter also lived long enough to see biographers and historians reassess his White House years more generously. His record includes the deregulation of key industries, reduction of U.S. dependence on foreign oil, cautious management of the national debt and notable legislation on the environment, education and mental health. He focused on human rights in foreign policy, pressuring dictators to release thousands of political prisoners . He acknowledged America’s historical imperialism, pardoned Vietnam War draft evaders and relinquished control of the Panama Canal. He normalized relations with China. “I am not nominating Jimmy Carter for a place on Mount Rushmore,” Stuart Eizenstat, Carter’s domestic policy director, wrote in a 2018 book. “He was not a great president” but also not the “hapless and weak” caricature voters rejected in 1980, Eizenstat said. Rather, Carter was “good and productive” and “delivered results, many of which were realized only after he left office.” Madeleine Albright, a national security staffer for Carter and Clinton’s secretary of state, wrote in Eizenstat’s forward that Carter was “consequential and successful” and expressed hope that “perceptions will continue to evolve” about his presidency. “Our country was lucky to have him as our leader,” said Albright, who died in 2022. Jonathan Alter, who penned a comprehensive Carter biography published in 2020, said in an interview that Carter should be remembered for “an epic American life” spanning from a humble start in a home with no electricity or indoor plumbing through decades on the world stage across two centuries. “He will likely go down as one of the most misunderstood and underestimated figures in American history,” Alter told The Associated Press. A small-town start James Earl Carter Jr. was born Oct. 1, 1924, in Plains and spent his early years in nearby Archery. His family was a minority in the mostly Black community, decades before the civil rights movement played out at the dawn of Carter’s political career. Carter, who campaigned as a moderate on race relations but governed more progressively, talked often of the influence of his Black caregivers and playmates but also noted his advantages: His land-owning father sat atop Archery’s tenant-farming system and owned a main street grocery. His mother, Lillian , would become a staple of his political campaigns. Seeking to broaden his world beyond Plains and its population of fewer than 1,000 — then and now — Carter won an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating in 1946. That same year he married Rosalynn Smith, another Plains native, a decision he considered more important than any he made as head of state. She shared his desire to see the world, sacrificing college to support his Navy career. Carter climbed in rank to lieutenant, but then his father was diagnosed with cancer, so the submarine officer set aside his ambitions of admiralty and moved the family back to Plains. His decision angered Rosalynn, even as she dived into the peanut business alongside her husband. Carter again failed to talk with his wife before his first run for office — he later called it “inconceivable” not to have consulted her on such major life decisions — but this time, she was on board. “My wife is much more political,” Carter told the AP in 2021. He won a state Senate seat in 1962 but wasn’t long for the General Assembly and its back-slapping, deal-cutting ways. He ran for governor in 1966 — losing to arch-segregationist Lester Maddox — and then immediately focused on the next campaign. Carter had spoken out against church segregation as a Baptist deacon and opposed racist “Dixiecrats” as a state senator. Yet as a local school board leader in the 1950s he had not pushed to end school segregation even after the Supreme Court’s Brown v. Board of Education decision, despite his private support for integration. And in 1970, Carter ran for governor again as the more conservative Democrat against Carl Sanders, a wealthy businessman Carter mocked as “Cufflinks Carl.” Sanders never forgave him for anonymous, race-baiting flyers, which Carter disavowed. Ultimately, Carter won his races by attracting both Black voters and culturally conservative whites. Once in office, he was more direct. “I say to you quite frankly that the time for racial discrimination is over,” he declared in his 1971 inaugural address, setting a new standard for Southern governors that landed him on the cover of Time magazine. ‘Jimmy Who?’ His statehouse initiatives included environmental protection, boosting rural education and overhauling antiquated executive branch structures. He proclaimed Martin Luther King Jr. Day in the slain civil rights leader’s home state. And he decided, as he received presidential candidates in 1972, that they were no more talented than he was. In 1974, he ran Democrats’ national campaign arm. Then he declared his own candidacy for 1976. An Atlanta newspaper responded with the headline: “Jimmy Who?” The Carters and a “Peanut Brigade” of family members and Georgia supporters camped out in Iowa and New Hampshire, establishing both states as presidential proving grounds. His first Senate endorsement: a young first-termer from Delaware named Joe Biden. Yet it was Carter’s ability to navigate America’s complex racial and rural politics that cemented the nomination. He swept the Deep South that November, the last Democrat to do so, as many white Southerners shifted to Republicans in response to civil rights initiatives. A self-declared “born-again Christian,” Carter drew snickers by referring to Scripture in a Playboy magazine interview, saying he “had looked on many women with lust. I’ve committed adultery in my heart many times.” The remarks gave Ford a new foothold and television comedians pounced — including NBC’s new “Saturday Night Live” show. But voters weary of cynicism in politics found it endearing. Carter chose Minnesota Sen. Walter “Fritz” Mondale as his running mate on a “Grits and Fritz” ticket. In office, he elevated the vice presidency and the first lady’s office. Mondale’s governing partnership was a model for influential successors Al Gore, Dick Cheney and Biden. Rosalynn Carter was one of the most involved presidential spouses in history, welcomed into Cabinet meetings and huddles with lawmakers and top aides. The Carters presided with uncommon informality: He used his nickname “Jimmy” even when taking the oath of office, carried his own luggage and tried to silence the Marine Band’s “Hail to the Chief.” They bought their clothes off the rack. Carter wore a cardigan for a White House address, urging Americans to conserve energy by turning down their thermostats. Amy, the youngest of four children, attended District of Columbia public school. Washington’s social and media elite scorned their style. But the larger concern was that “he hated politics,” according to Eizenstat, leaving him nowhere to turn politically once economic turmoil and foreign policy challenges took their toll. Accomplishments, and ‘malaise’ Carter partially deregulated the airline, railroad and trucking industries and established the departments of Education and Energy, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. He designated millions of acres of Alaska as national parks or wildlife refuges. He appointed a then-record number of women and nonwhite people to federal posts. He never had a Supreme Court nomination, but he elevated civil rights attorney Ruth Bader Ginsburg to the nation’s second highest court, positioning her for a promotion in 1993. He appointed Paul Volker, the Federal Reserve chairman whose policies would help the economy boom in the 1980s — after Carter left office. He built on Nixon’s opening with China, and though he tolerated autocrats in Asia, pushed Latin America from dictatorships to democracy. But he couldn’t immediately tame inflation or the related energy crisis. And then came Iran. After he admitted the exiled Shah of Iran to the U.S. for medical treatment, the American Embassy in Tehran was overrun in 1979 by followers of the Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Negotiations to free the hostages broke down repeatedly ahead of the failed rescue attempt. The same year, Carter signed SALT II, the new strategic arms treaty with Leonid Brezhnev of the Soviet Union, only to pull it back, impose trade sanctions and order a U.S. boycott of the Moscow Olympics after the Soviets invaded Afghanistan. Hoping to instill optimism, he delivered what the media dubbed his “malaise” speech, although he didn’t use that word. He declared the nation was suffering “a crisis of confidence.” By then, many Americans had lost confidence in the president, not themselves. Carter campaigned sparingly for reelection because of the hostage crisis, instead sending Rosalynn as Sen. Edward M. Kennedy challenged him for the Democratic nomination. Carter famously said he’d “kick his ass,” but was hobbled by Kennedy as Reagan rallied a broad coalition with “make America great again” appeals and asking voters whether they were “better off than you were four years ago.” Reagan further capitalized on Carter’s lecturing tone, eviscerating him in their lone fall debate with the quip: “There you go again.” Carter lost all but six states and Republicans rolled to a new Senate majority. Carter successfully negotiated the hostages’ freedom after the election, but in one final, bitter turn of events, Tehran waited until hours after Carter left office to let them walk free. ‘A wonderful life’ At 56, Carter returned to Georgia with “no idea what I would do with the rest of my life.” Four decades after launching The Carter Center, he still talked of unfinished business. “I thought when we got into politics we would have resolved everything,” Carter told the AP in 2021. “But it’s turned out to be much more long-lasting and insidious than I had thought it was. I think in general, the world itself is much more divided than in previous years.” Still, he affirmed what he said when he underwent treatment for a cancer diagnosis in his 10th decade of life. “I’m perfectly at ease with whatever comes,” he said in 2015 . “I’ve had a wonderful life. I’ve had thousands of friends, I’ve had an exciting, adventurous and gratifying existence.” ___ Former Associated Press journalist Alex Sanz contributed to this report.

NoneGermany to tighten criminal law as people-smuggling ‘action plan’ agreed with UK

NASA has again postponed the return to Earth of Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams, the astronauts stranded on the International Space Station after Boeing's Starliner capsule malfunctioned in the middle of this year. The crew of the spacecraft arrived at the ISS in June. The objective was to test the Starliner’s comprehensive capabilities, including launch, docking, and return systems. The mission was scheduled to last one week. Five of the capsule’s 28 thrusters failed to function before docking with the ISS. Boeing claimed that its technology could guarantee the safe return of the astronauts. However, NASA expressed doubts and concluded that the risk was too high. The agency entrusted the task to SpaceX . Elon Musk's company launched the Crew-9 mission in September to, among other things, return Williams and Wilmore. Until now, the stalled astronauts were scheduled to return in February aboard the Crew Dragon rocket. However, NASA has announced that it expects the expedition to return to Earth's surface after the arrival of Crew-10, which will be sent in late March 2025 at the earliest. The adjustment will allow SpaceX and NASA engineers to finalize development of a new Dragon spacecraft, which will be shipped to the company's Florida facility early next month. "Fabrication, assembly, testing, and final integration of a new spacecraft is a painstaking endeavor that requires great attention to detail,” said Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, in a statement. “We appreciate the hard work by the SpaceX team to expand the Dragon fleet in support of our missions and the flexibility of the station program and expedition crews as we work together to complete the new capsule’s readiness for flight.” NASA said that Crew-9 and Crew-10 crews must complete a “handover period,” during which the ISS residents share experiences and knowledge with the new arrivals. This process ensures the proper performance of onboard science experiments and maintenance of the orbital complex. NASA and SpaceX specialists evaluated several options for coordinating the next crewed delivery. They determined that the March launch for Crew-10 was the “best option for meeting NASA’s requirements and achieving space station objectives for 2025,” according to an agency press release. A Long Haul The ISS received two resupply flights in November, ensuring that the crew members have sufficient food, water, clothing, and oxygen. However, some experts have warned of potential health risks for Wilmore and Williams after spending more than nine months in space. The scientific community has been studying the effects of spaceflight on the human body since the 1970s. In the years since the first lunar landing, it has identified conditions such as loss of bone mass, weakened heart function, visual problems, and the development of kidney stones. A recent study from University College London reveals that the structure and function of the kidneys can also suffer permanent damage, although this is particularly aggressive in cases of astronauts who get too far away from Earth, which is not the case on the ISS. NASA points out that the crews of expeditions to the ISS usually make extended stays, with an average duration of six months. It adds that some astronauts have carried out missions of up to one year to contribute to research on human adaptation to spaceflight, with a view to future lunar and Martian exploration. This story originally appeared on WIRED en Español and has been translated from Spanish.Traveling this holiday season? 10 things the TSA wants you to know

None

 

iwildcasino bewertung

2025-01-13
wild casino us
wild casino us A source close to Rachel Reeves has strongly denied reports that the government is about to exempt farmers aged 80 and over from the family farm tax in a bid to end a revolt in rural England. The prime minister and the chancellor are under growing pressure to provide some relief for farmers amid growing anger over the decision to extend inheritance tax to include family farms. The changes mean that farms valued at £1 million or more would be liable for 20 per cent inheritance tax. The Treasury claim that in reality with tax allowances it would mean only farms worth £3 million would be affected covering just 28 per cent of family farms. But Defra figures appear to suggest as many as 66 per cent could be hit. Thousands of farmers brought Westminster to a standstill on Tuesday when they descended on the capital to voice their opposition to the changes. Earlier on Thursday the Independent revealed the 81 Labour seats most at risk as a result of the backlash, and it has since been reported that the concession was being considered to give the farming sector longer to plan. According to The Guardian officials are now looking at options including an exemption for over-80s. It came as Downing Street denied that the prime minister and chancellor had an emergency meeting today on the issue. But when the report was put to Ms Reeves’s office asking if the report was true, a source close to the chancellor replied: “No”. However, even if the move was being planned, farmers’ representatives and supporters made it clear that the concession would not nearly be enough. Tom Bradshaw, president of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), said: “The average age of death in the UK is around 80, so they should bring it down to 73 to allow them to use the seven-year gifting rule. “If they are looking at how they create an exemption for the elderly members of the industry then the exemption should come in seven years before the average age of death. I would prefer an exemption before April 2026, when the rules come in, so you can make the transfer and don’t have to survive the seven years, but we have far better options on the table if they come out for consultation. We could come up with a policy that would answer the questions but be far better for the industry.” Mo Metcalf-Fisher, external affairs director for the Countryside Alliance, added: “If true, while it’s reassuring to see the government may finally acknowledge that the family farm tax is a flawed policy, it still has to make the right calls about mitigating the impact on family farms. “It is vital that this time ministers listen to the farming industry and reach a solution that will not see family farms bearing the brunt of this change. There is still a long way to go to heal Labour’s relationship with the countryside.” The reports came after environment secretary Steve Reed received a mooted response when he spoke at the Country Land and Business Association (CLA). Opening the CLA's rural business conference, the organisation's president Victoria Vyvyan warned: "Farmers, landowners and businesses in the rural economy are facing a very bleak future, if we have one at all." Mr Reed told delegates at the conference in central London that farming leaders and individual farmers he spoke to during Tuesday's protest had told him the Budget was the "final straw" after decades of issues, as he pledged to work with rural communities to support them. He was challenged in the conference over the issue of elderly farmers thinking the only way through the changes to inheritance tax was to take their lives before the measures came in in April 2026. In response, he said he wanted to listen to understand how the government could make the changes easier to bear. But he also warned the country "can't go on the way that it was" and Budget decisions on tax and spending were made to restore economic stability, and to support public services such as the NHS the elderly relied on. "The prize is for the long term, and an economy that works for the future, for every single person in every single part of the country, including our rural communities," he said.The threats publicly aired by Vice President Sara Duterte have created a novel phase in the public appreciation of political assassinations. Whereas, people exploded in extreme emotion upon the news of high-profile assassinations like that of Benigno Aquino Jr., and the localized anguish of political assassinations of lesser officials, Sara Duterte has thrust the country into a novel season of “assassination watch.” Seldom have would-be assassins, both perpetrators and instigators, so openly advertised their move, with no quibble room for doubt, as VP Sara did when she emphasized the threat was “no joke, no joke.” This is new political telenovela territory. And Duterte has made sure this is a telenovela that will be followed throughout the world. The specific wording of her threat, delivered in a video that showed her partially in a darkened room, gave her threat an eerie, goosepimple-raising spectacle that quickly rippled around the world. Only in the Philippines! Political assassinations used to happen without much inkling or anticipation, like earthquakes. But the Sara Duterte threat converted the earthquake into an impending typhoon that would now be tracked day-by-day, kilometer-by-kilometer, with blow-by-blow annotations by political weathercasters. Will it worsen into a supertyphoon? Or will it weaken and dissipate altogether? Political assassinations have become a before-and-after national topic, where before it was always after the fact. Sara Duterte has also created a macabre package deal—kill one, take four. If she dies, the President, the First Lady, and the Speaker of the House will also die. The instructions to the assassin, according to her, is that s/he should not stop until all three are killed. This is, in nuclear war parlance, called a “failsafe” condition, because there is no way Sara Duterte can countermand the order, in her own words, “from the grave.” The contract that Sara Duterte has drawn is unique. It is inclusive and participatory because it encourages a myriad of perpetrators and instigators to now rush to initiate the process of eliminating her which will be blamed on the Marcos family. Unfortunately, there is no more whiff even of imagined honor or patriotism behind political assassinations. It has become just a matter of political ambition and money. How different the motivation was when Julio Guillen, on the eve of the plebiscite on the Parity Rights Amendment to the 1935 Constitution, threw a grenade to kill President Manuel Roxas at Plaza Miranda on March 10, 1947, because he championed the amendment which Guillen opposed. Guillen did it “for the sake of a Free Philippines.” The grenade killed one person and injured others. Roxas survived. Guillen died on the electric chair in 1950. Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. was less salutary in his motive but at least he didn’t hire an assassin to take down his father’s political rival, Julio Nalundasan. Marcos Sr. did it DIY, using a rifle from the UP ROTC armory that was traceable to him. To better appreciate this Filipino political assassination teleserye, I recommend you read the article “Killing Politicians in the Philippines: Who, Where, When, and Why” by Peter Kreuzer (Peace Research Institute Frankfurt (https://bit.ly/3D68AcA). The article provides an in-depth analysis of the targeted killings of politicians in the Philippines, focusing on the patterns, perpetrators, and underlying causes of such violence. Here are some points he makes: The Philippines experiences a high incidence of fatal violence against politicians, comparable to countries like South Africa, Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil. Over the past 15 years, approximately 70 politicians have been killed annually, with numbers exceeding 100 deaths per year in recent times. Local politicians are predominantly targeted, especially at the barangay (village) level. Vice mayors and mayors face the highest risk of assassination. While significant variations exist between neighboring local government units in levels of violence, the initial phase of former president Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug campaign led to a nationwide surge in killings. The perpetrators are typically contract killers hired to execute these assassinations. The individuals who commission these killings often remain unidentified and enjoy near-total impunity. The primary motive for assassinations is political rivalry, with adversaries eliminating opponents to secure or maintain political positions and the associated benefits. Political assassinations have adversely impacted governance, yet on occasion, they have opened the pathway to transformative change, as in the assassination of Benigno S. Aquino Jr. This teleserye is open-ended and may take time, so have your Piattos on hand for this exciting assassination watch. —————- Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . [email protected]

Article content There is tinkering and fine tuning, and then there is the Edmonton Elks. Boy, talk about a complete engine overhaul. From the very top of the new private ownership hierarchy with the one behind the wheel (and steering things straight into the Calgary Stampeders bench, no less), to a new president, to a new general manager, it’s an entirely new driving force behind this team. And sure, the engine’s output will only be as good as the sum of its parts when it comes to the makeup of the roster. But Monday at Commonwealth Stadium, it was all about the transmission, with the introduction of new head coach Mark Kilam, who is hands down the most integral part of it all. He is, after all, where the rubber meets the road. And it doesn’t matter how fancy an engine you have if it fails to get turned into positive traction in the standings. Up to this point in Edmonton’s rebranding, the wheels have all but fallen off as time and time again, this team continues to fall well short of reaching victory lane on the perennial path to playoffs. Vote of confidence The thing is, the Elks’ latest hire already has the grandstands packed full of support from former players as word got out he was making the leap to the head-coaching ranks after spending the past 20 years with the Calgary Stampeders, where he left off as special-teams co-ordinator and assistant head coach. And Kilam was quick off the starting pistol to acknowledge his appreciation for their vote of confidence. “It was incredible. I don’t have social media, but my mom would screenshot things to me, my wife would show me things and it just really reinforced that I did things the right way growing up and working with these guys,” Kilam said. “And that’s what I really took from it. Those relationships were real, those connections were real. “Me, I value people. I value what they can bring in whatever position group or whatever area they’re involved in in this organization.” He said the fact he comes from a special-teams background only bolstered his case for the head-coaching job. “We’re all the sum of our experiences, so all my roles there helped me prepare for this opportunity,” said Kilam, who left Calgary as the CFL’s longest-serving coach. “I’ve got 20 years in a great organization, and that’s a lot of experience in different things, highs and lows. A lot of different experiences with players. “Special-teams guys are prepared for these jobs. We’re the only ones that talk to the whole team, other than the head coach. Good special-teams co-ordinators have a presence in the room, you have to if you want your guys to play. You’re game managers, constantly thinking ahead. What’s the next situation? What are we anticipating here? All those experiences have prepared me and I can’t wait to hit the ground running.” That’s good, because he will have to. His Elks have plenty of ground to make up if they hope to make the leap from obscuring to playoff contention. It’s the exact opposite step the Stampeders took this past year, missing playoffs for the first time since 2004 — the year before Kilam first came onto the CFL scene as their strength and conditioning coach. But all that time spent on the south side of the provincial rivalry didn’t dim his vision of what pro football can become once again in Edmonton, where he spent his playing days as a linebacker and team captain for the University of Alberta Golden Bears. “This team’s going to take on an identity that the people of this city can resonate with,” Kilam said. “This is a city that is not afraid to work hard. This is a city that has grit, and a city that has a chip on its shoulder to succeed. And that’s what we’re going to be about. ‘Built tough’ “We’re going to be a team that’s built tough. That’s built for the cold. We’re going to be a team that doesn’t back down and doesn’t turn it down. We’re going to commit to playing a style of winning football, and that’s going to look like whatever it takes each and every week. Give Kilam credit. He has been around Edmonton enough to know the one thing the fans here want most is for the future of this club to start looking more like the past. “We’re going to commit to playing a certain type of football that the people in this city can believe in. And that’s important,” he said. “We’re going to be a group that’s accountable, not only to each other but to everybody that came here before us. “We’re going to stand on the shoulders of the people who built this place and represent the double-E the right way.” E-mail: gmoddejonge@postmedia.com On Twitter: @GerryModdejonge Bookmark our website and support our journalism: Don’t miss the news you need to know — add EdmontonJournal.com and EdmontonSun.com to your bookmarks and sign up for our newsletters here. You can also support our journalism by becoming a digital subscriber. Subscribers gain unlimited access to The Edmonton Journal, Edmonton Sun, National Post and 13 other Canadian news sites. Support us by subscribing today: The Edmonton Journal | The Edmonton Sun.Trump brings back government by social media

Another complaint filed with ICT against Hasina

Google Gemini Gets Groovy: Spotify Extension with Play and Search Functions Now Rolling OutNone

December 6, 2024 Deadline: Contact The Gross Law Firm to Join Class Action Suit Against AILEThe UK is prepared for “all eventualities” if Donald Trump slaps import tariffs on goods from Britain, Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said. The US president-elect has already announced plans to hit China, Canada and Mexico with tariffs as part of his efforts to crack down on illegal immigration and drugs. But he has indicated he is prepared to use tariffs far more widely as part of his plan to protect American industry. Mr Trump has suggested he wants to increase tariffs on goods imported from around the world by 10% or 20%, rising to 60% on items from China. The UK could retaliate in the form of tariffs targeted at symbolically important US products such as whiskey, blue jeans and motorbikes – hitting brands like Jack Daniel’s, Levi’s and Harley-Davidson – as Britain and the European Union did during trade wars in Mr Trump’s first term in the White House. Mr Reynolds would not be drawn on what actions he would take but insisted the UK was prepared. He told the Commons Business and Trade Committee: “This is the big question facing global trading relationships.” The UK should be an advocate for “open, transparent, free trading relationships around the world”, he said. “Yes, it’s true to say, if any country imposed tariffs on UK companies exporting, it would hurt our companies. “But let’s also remember that it also hurts the consumers in whatever country are being asked to pay those tariffs. And there’s an inflationary pressure, there’s an impact on the cost of living.” The Cabinet minister acknowledged that a 20% tariffs on goods exported to the US would result in a “not insignificant” impact on UK economic growth. Asked if the Government had options ready to respond to tariffs from Mr Trump, the minister said: “I wouldn’t want to speculate, but the committee should assume that all eventualities have been prepared for.” The options in any dispute would be to do nothing, retaliate or negotiate. Asked if retaliatory tariffs on goods such as Harley-Davidson bikes were already prepared, the Trade Secretary said: “You would expect this department to prepare for every eventuality. But I think we should just be a little bit sensitive at this stage about speculating about how we would respond to something which hasn’t happened.” Mr Reynolds said the trade deficits with the US in relation to other European countries did not apply to the UK so Mr Trump might not feel the need to act in the same way as he would with other nations. He said: “There are a whole range of areas where we, as a country, I think could and should – if we could do it – welcome closer trading relationships with the US. “The US is a fundamental ally of ours. We have an incredibly strong trading relationship as it stands, and when I look to areas like services, technology, critical minerals, if there was the opportunity to work more closely together, I don’t think anyone should turn around immediately and say ‘not interested in that’.” He acknowledged there were “challenges” in seeking a closer trading relationship, or even a free-trade deal, which would have knock-on impacts with other important markets for the UK in the EU and China. “I don’t see the need at this stage to rule anything out or in, but to be realistic about where our national interest lies and being frank with the committee about the fact that any negotiation in any major principal market that we might do has to be considered not in isolation, but its relationship to other key markets, and what the consequences of that negotiation would mean for business and trade in those areas.” But he insisted he did not see the coming years as a “binary choice” between trading more closely with the US or EU.

Technology stocks pulled Wall Street to another record amid mixed trading. The S&P 500 rose 0.2% Monday after closing November at an all-time high. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.3%, and the Nasdaq composite gained 1%. Super Micro Computer, a stock that’s been on an AI-driven roller coaster, soared after saying an investigation found no evidence of misconduct by its management or the company’s board. Retailers were mixed coming off Black Friday and heading into what’s expected to be the best Cyber Monday on record. Treasury yields held relatively steady in the bond market. On Monday: The S&P 500 rose 14.77 points, or 0.2%, to 6,047.15. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 128.65 points, or 0.3%, to 44,782. The Nasdaq composite rose 185.78 points, or 1%, to 19,403.95. The Russell 2000 index of smaller companies fell 0.59 points, or less than 0.1%, to 2,434.14. For the year: The S&P 500 is up 1,277.32 points, or 26.8%. The Dow is up 7,092.46 points, or 18.8%. The Nasdaq is up 4,392.60 points, or 29.3%. The Russell 2000 is up 407.06 points, or 20.1%.

Democrat Jamie Raskin is running for top Judiciary post in bid to counter TrumpWild first season in expanded Big 12 comes down to final weekend

OTTAWA - The federal government’s decision to pause private refugee sponsorship applications from community organizations and groups of five or more people caught aid organizations off guard. Lauren Lallemand, the co-executive director of the Canadian Council for Refugees, said her group met with Immigration Minister Marc Miller and federal officials during a conference that was held Nov. 26 to 28, and the idea of pausing applications was not discussed. “The news came as a big surprise to us. It was not something the minister had informed us they were considering,” Lallemand said. “We really feel like it’s a betrayal to the need for protection that many people overseas are experiencing, and in particular for their families in Canada who are hoping to bring them here.” An official with Miller’s office said that relevant groups, including the Canadian Council for Refugees, were told about the pause before the notice for the pause was published on Friday, though they acknowledged that the heads-up didn’t happen long before the announcement was made. The government says the move is aimed at clearing a backlog of almost a quarter-million refugee claims as of the end of September. More than 90,000 of those come from the private sponsorship program, according to immigration officials. The government says about 80 per cent of applications completed in the last six months were processed within 40 months of the initial filing. Applications submitted before the pause was made official on Friday will still be processed. Under the new immigration levels plan for 2025-2027, the government intends to admit around 58,000 refugees next year, including 23,000 from privately sponsored applications. By the end of 2027, the target is to bring in around 66,000 privately sponsored refugees. The pause does not affect sponsorship agreement holders, many of which are cultural organizations and religious groups, such as the Mennonite Central Committee that has about 400 permits per year. Brian Dyck, national migration and resettlement coordinator for the Mennonite Central Committee, said the government has full control of the number of visas issued to sponsorship agreement holders, unlike private sponsorship applications going in. “We wrote a letter to the minister in early November saying that we think it’s important to raise the number of permanent privately sponsored refugees coming in because we see this backlog,” Dyck said. “Our preference was that they would raise the number of landings. They didn’t do that. So this was essentially the other option to try and put a limit on the number of applications that go in.” The Canadian Council for Refugees also requested a one year “bump” in the amount of visas issued to better clear the processing backlog. “We feel this is a much more fair and reasonable ask than penalizing people who are trying to bring refugees to Canada simply because the government hasn’t managed their inventory of cases properly,” Lallemand said. Lallemand added that it’s “heartbreaking” there wasn’t advance notice given that this pause was coming, noting it can take months to put private refugee sponsorship applications together. “To realize overnight that your ability to submit the application has been removed, it just shows a level of callousness that we find very shocking,” Lallemand said. The UN refugee agency estimates there were more than 117 million people worldwide forcibly displaced from their homes. They say this figure has increased annually for the last 12 years. With this growing need, Dyck said Canada needs to continue to act as a world leader when it comes to supporting refugees. “Resettlement to a country like Canada is not the only solution, it’s even a small part of the solution, but it is a solution and we need to be a part of this,” Dyck said. “We are leaders in this area. So I think it’s important for us to continue to make spaces for refugees coming to Canada.” The government acknowledged the pause willl affect refugee aid organizations, and said they will work with partner agencies on longer-term improvements to the private refugee sponsorship program. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 2, 2024.

Russia shares higher at close of trade; MOEX Russia Index up 1.18%Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel says he was surprised by reports of Shaq Barrett's unretirement plan

NoneHorticulture univ pioneers AI in flower productionHow major US stock indexes fared Monday, 12/2/2024

 

wild casino join

2025-01-12
wild casino welcome bonus
wild casino welcome bonus

Nordson's EVP Jennifer McDonough sells $68k in stock



No. 22 Army faces unexpected foe La. Tech in Independence BowlNew Zealand Trade Balance NZD (MoM) climbed from previous $-2108M to $-1544M in OctoberNorthwest Bank Deploys Inovatec LOS Platform to Improve Loan Origination Processes

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and these festive neighborhoods will prove it. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, the Winter Solstice, or Kwanzaa, there is joy in strolling a nearby block or hopping in the car where you can blast holiday tunes. You can even explore holiday lights in some of these neighborhoods via a boat. We compiled a list of 10 Southern California destinations known for their lit holiday hoods! Naples Island It wouldn’t be Southern California without some beachside holiday cheer and displays. Visitors can start their stroll at the marine or Mothers’ Beach for the best expedition. The neighborhoods surrounding Naples Island take the holidays to heart with some breathtaking Christmas light decorations that will guide Santa Claus in the dark night skies. Long Beach also puts on a beautiful Christmas tree lighting display and offers holiday light tours on a double-decker Big Red Bus that rides passengers around the best decorated private homes, the famous floating Christmas trees in Alamitos Bay, and near a Ferris Wheel. If you’re planning a more romantic festive date, Gondola Getaway Inc. provides gondola rides paired with a cup of hot chocolate for you and your sweetie. Where: Holiday Light Tours pick up is at Marni’s OC 620 Pacific Coast Hwy, Seal Beach. When: The Holiday Light tours are scheduled at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m., and 8 p.m. from Sunday through Thursday through Dec. 19, with the final night on Dec. 23. For tickets and reservations, call 562-852-9888 or email events@bigredbus.com. To book a Gondola ride, visit gondolagetawayinc.com . Venice Canals We’d be remiss, not to mention the other beautiful neighborhood nestled just steps away from Venice Beach. There is something so charming about shimmering lights over the neighborhood’s wooden framed bridges. Inspired by Venice, Italy, these man-made canals are a cozy display of Christmas lights where residents light up their homes and even some small boats that transform the area into a holiday paradise. It’s perfect for a nice winter stroll by the water. Don’t miss the Venice Canals Christmas Boat Parade on Sunday, Dec. 8, at 4:30 p.m. The annual tradition since the ’80s is a community celebration that showcases some of the city’s best-decorated boats. Where: Right off 25th St., Venice Beach. When: Now through Dec. 29. Symphony Street While caroling may not be as prominent as it once was, there are still ways to enjoy those holiday jingles alongside some Christmas lights. This Orange County neighborhood allows visitors to drive-thru and tune into 89.1 FM for Christmas music. Keep up with the Lights on Symphony St Facebook page for the most up-to-date information. Where: 1816 N Symphony St., Anaheim. When: 5-10 p.m. now through Jan 1. Upper Hastings Ranch Holiday LightUp Organized by the Upper Hastings Ranch Association (UHRA) for more than 70 years, the neighborhood often drizzles its lawns with faux snow and decked-out decorations with no shortage of Christmas lights, attracting families from near and far to experience the festivities. The organizers’ Facebook page includes videos of live bands and community shows that have occurred in past celebrations. Where: Hastings Ranch Drive and Sierra Madre Blvd, Pasadena. When: 6-11 p.m. Dec. 6 through Dec. 31. Thoroughbred and Jennet Streets Holiday Lights The annual holiday tradition features over 125,000 lights, holiday figurines and decorations that bring people to the Inland Empire neighborhood every year. The city of Rancho Cucamonga restricts pedestrian access at this event to ensure safety and crowd control and passed a resolution to make it drive-thru only. Where: Thoroughbred, Sapphire and Jennett Streets, Rancho Cucamonga. When: 5-11 p.m. Dec. 6 through Dec. 24. Lights on Display in Sherman Oaks Curated by Sherman Oaks resident Mike Ziemkowski, Lights on Display returns with an impressive showcase of holiday magic. This display features a combination of computer-controlled lighting, DMX-driven intelligent lights, and synchronized animatronic characters—all set to a festive playlist. Perfect for all ages, this free experience delights visitors Wednesday through Sunday, weather permitting, from November 29 to New Year’s Day. Where : 3901 Longview Valley Rd., Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 When : Wednesdays-Sundays, beginning Nov. 29 through Jan. 1. Holiday Road Hosted at the picturesque King Gillette Ranch, the fifth annual Holiday Road transforms Calabasas into a holiday wonderland. Featuring over 1 million Christmas lights, a mile-long walking trail with over 20 immersive scenes, live Santa, carolers, and festive bars, it’s a must-see event for holiday enthusiasts. New highlights this year include cutting-edge projection mapping, innovative light technology, and exclusive Maker’s Mark and Minus One Nine Six Vodka Seltzer activations. Where : 26800 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA 91302 When : 5-10 p.m., Nov. 29 through Dec. 28. Sparkle DTLA at The Bloc Celebrate the season in a vibrant display of lights at Sparkle DTLA, where 18 million hues illuminate the night in sync with festive music. Located at The Bloc, this event features one of the city’s largest multi-colored interactive holiday displays, making it a unique experience for all ages. The nightly light show starts at 5 p.m. and runs through December 31. Where : 700 W 7th St., Los Angeles, CA 90017 When : 5-10 p.m., nightly through Dec. 31. 123 Farm Christmas Nights Bring the holiday spirit to life at 123 Farm Christmas Nights, where twinkling lights meet festive fun in a charming Christmas Village setting. Stroll the farm while savoring seasonal foods and drinks, surrounded by holiday displays perfect for a family outing. Where : 10600 Highland Springs Ave., Beaumont, CA 92223 When : 5-10 p.m., Tuesdays-Sundays through Dec. 23. Christmas Tree Lane Experience a mile of magic on Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena, where towering cedar trees are adorned with twinkling lights and festive music fills the air. Beginning December 7 at 6 p.m., this annual tradition transforms Santa Rosa Avenue into a glowing wonderland, perfect for a stroll or a drive. Where : Santa Rosa Ave., between Altadena Dr. & Woodbury Rd., Altadena, CA 91003 When : Nightly starting Dec. 7.

AP News Summary at 4:35 p.m. ESTBet_Noire When the Federal Reserve issues its FOMC statement on Dec. 19, 2024, stock markets are widely expecting a 25-basis point cut. The CME Group’s FedWatch tool assigned a near-probable Fed Funds rate of 425 – 500 bps. Yet, stock market performances are diverging ahead of this Please [+] Follow me for coverage on deeply discounted stocks. To get more more from these articles, get do-it-yourself tips and tricks through three subscription tiers. Chris Lau is an individual investor and economist with 30 years of experience covering life science, technology, and dividend-growth income stocks. He has degrees in Microbiology and Economics. Chris runs the investing group DIY Value Investing where he shares his top stock picks of undervalued stocks with catalysts for upside, dividend-income recommendations with quant and payment calendar tracking, high upside plays, and research requests to help you become a better do-it-yourself investor. Learn more. Top Pick this year : this stock has become the best ever top pick . Highlighted is the one-day change, the editor's pick, and daily gain. The returns from the public articles are: 2023 Average Return: 8.4% 2022 Average Return: 6.9% 2021 Average Return 29.90% 2020 Average Return: 49.9% Flagship Products: 1. Top DIY Picks: Undervalued stocks have upcoming catalysts that markets do not expect. 2. Dividend-income Champs that have a long history of dividend growth. Includes printable calendar and quantitative scores. 3. DIY Risky Picks for a speculative allocation positive momentum for up to a moonshot, triple return. Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.