US lawmaker calls for release of Vietnamese political prisoner
Predators aim to energize offense vs. surging Maple LeafsAfter weeks of fear and bewilderment about the drones buzzing over parts of New York and New Jersey, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer is urging the federal government to deploy better drone-tracking technology to identify and ultimately stop the airborne pests. The New York Democrat is calling on the Department of Homeland Security to immediately deploy special technology that identifies and tracks drones back to their landing spots, according to briefings from his office. Schumer’s calls come amid growing public concern that the federal government hasn’t offered clear explanations as to who is operating the drones, and has not stopped them. National security officials have said the drones don’t appear to be a sign of foreign interference. “There’s a lot of us who are pretty frustrated right now,” said Rep. Jim Himes, D-Conn., the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, on Fox News Sunday. “The answer ‘We don’t know’ is not a good enough answer.” President-elect Donald Trump posted on social media last week: “Can this really be happening without our government’s knowledge? I don’t think so. Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, shoot them down.” Certain agencies within the Department of Homeland Security have the power to “incapacitate” drones, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas told ABC’s George Stephanopoulos on Sunday. “But we need those authorities expanded,” he said, without saying exactly how. The drones don’t appear to be linked to foreign governments, Mayorkas said. “We know of no foreign involvement with respect to the sightings in the Northeast. And we are vigilant in investigating this matter,” Mayorkas said. Last year, federal aviation rules began requiring certain drones to broadcast their identities. It’s not clear whether that information has been used to determine who is operating the drones swarming locations in New York and New Jersey. Mayorkas’ office didn’t immediately respond to questions about whether they’ve been able to identify drones using this capability. Schumer is calling for recently declassified radar technology to be used to help determine whether an object is a drone or a bird, identify its electronic registration, and follow it back to its landing place. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul on Sunday said federal officials were sending a drone detection system to the state. “This system will support state and federal law enforcement in their investigations,” Hochul said in a statement. The governor did not immediately provide additional details, including where the system will be deployed. Dozens of mysterious nighttime flights started last month over New Jersey, raising concerns among residents and officials. Part of the worry stems from the flying objects initially being spotted near the Picatinny Arsenal, a U.S. military research and manufacturing facility and over Trump’s golf course in Bedminster. Drones are legal in New Jersey for recreational and commercial use, but they are subject to local and Federal Aviation Administration regulations and flight restrictions. Operators must be FAA certified.
BIAO Partners with Wintermute: $BIAO - The Biggest Meme in the East Goes Global!LOS ANGELES -- Two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell says it was a really easy decision to sign with the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers and the presence of three-time MVP Shohei Ohtani played a part, too. Snell was introduced Tuesday at Dodger Stadium accompanied by his agent Scott Boras. The left-hander finalized a $182 million, five-year contract last Saturday. “It was really easy just cause me and Haeley wanted to live here, it’s something we’ve been talking about for a while,” Snell said, referring to his girlfriend. “Then you look at the team. You look at what they’ve built, what they’re doing. It’s just something you want to be a part of.” Last month, Snell opted out of his deal with San Francisco to become a free agent for the second consecutive offseason after he was slowed by injuries during his lone year with the San Francisco Giants. Snell gets a $52 million signing bonus, payable on Jan. 25, and annual salaries of $26 million, of which $13.2 million each year will be deferred . Because Snell is a Washington state resident, the signing bonus will not be subject to California income tax. “It just played out the way that people around me felt comfortable with, I felt comfortable with, they felt comfortable with,” Snell said. “We talked and found something that could work for both of us. You want your worth, you want your respect, and you want enough time to where you can really make a name for yourself. I've made a name for myself outside of LA, but I'm going to be invested.” Two-way star Ohtani, who signed a record $700 million, 10-year deal a year ago, had a historic first season with the Dodgers. He helped them win the franchise's eighth World Series while playing only as designated hitter and became MVP in the National League for the first time after twice winning the award while in the American League. “It helps with him in the lineup for sure. That’s big motivation,” Snell said. “You want to be around players like that when you’re trying to be one of the best in the game. Yeah, it played a big part.” Snell joins Ohtani and fellow Japanese right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto atop Los Angeles’ rotation. All-Star Tyler Glasnow will be back after having his first season in LA derailed by a sprained elbow. Ohtani didn’t pitch this year while recovering from right elbow surgery but is expected back on the mound in 2025. The rest of the rotation includes Tony Gonsolin, Landon Knack, Dustin May, Bobby Miller and Emmet Sheehan. “I pitched on six-man, five-man, four-man rotations,” Snell said. “I'm good with it all as long as we have a plan, we'll execute it.” Snell, who turns 32 on Wednesday, went 5-3 with a 3.12 ERA in 20 starts this year, throwing a no-hitter at Cincinnati on Aug. 2 for one of only 16 individual shutouts in the major leagues this season. He struck out 145 and walked 44 in 104 innings. He was sidelined between April 19 and May 22 by a strained left adductor and between June 2 and July 9 by a strained left groin. Snell won Cy Young Awards in 2018 with Tampa Bay and 2023 with San Diego. He is 76-58 with a 3.19 ERA in nine seasons with the Rays (2016-20), Padres (2021-23) and Giants. He has known Andrew Friedman, Dodgers president of baseball operations, since he was 18. In the aftermath of winning the World Series and discussing how the Dodgers could repeat next year, Friedman said, “All conversations kept coming back to Blake.” “Usually in major league free agency, you're buying the backside of a guy's career, the accomplishments that they have had,” he said. “With Blake, one thing that's really exciting for us is, as much success as he's had, we feel like there's more in there." Snell was 2-2 against the Dodgers in his career. “We couldn’t beat him, so we’re going to have him join us,” Friedman said. .___ AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) may approve a number of new norms at its upcoming board meeting on December 18, including those for SME companies wanting to go public, angel funds and unpublished price sensitive information (UPSI). SEBI may double or quadruple the minimum application size in SME IPOs to ₹2-4 lakh, allowing only informed investors with higher risk taking appetite to apply. Issuers will be eligible to make an initial public offer only if the issue size is more than ₹10 crore and only if the operating profit is ₹3 crore for at least two out of three financial years preceding the application. Lock-in on minimum promoter contribution may be increased to five years from three years. Minimum allottees in such IPOs may be increased to 200 from existing 50. The appointment of monitoring agency will be mandatory if fresh issue size is higher than ₹20 crore. SEBI recently cancelled the SME IPO of Trafiksol ITS Technologies and asked the company to refund the money to investors for alleged questionable dealings with a ‘shell entity’. SEBI sets new benchmarks with comprehensive norms for secretarial auditors Fund raising by InvITs slows down, REITs keep up momentum SEBI mulls registration, empanelment for algo traders, providers SEBI may expand the ambit of UPSI by including restructuring plans, proposed fundraising activities, and one-time bank settlements. Developments in corporate insolvency proceedings that include approval of resolution plans, one-time settlement in relation to loans and borrowings from banks or financial institutions will be included. According to a study by SEBI on material events disclosed to the stock exchanges, companies were seen to be categorising only the items explicitly mentioned in the PIT Regulations as UPSI, and not complying with the law in spirit. The regulator may suggest sharp hike in the net worth and provide more clarity on the roles and responsibilities of investment bankers. Bankers with net worth of at least ₹50 crore will fall under Category 1 and they will be allowed to undertake all activities that fall under SEBI’s ambit. Those with net worth of Rs 10 crore will fall under Category 2 and will not be allowed to handle mainboard issues. SEBI may approve a proposal allowing only accredited investors to invest in angel funds. Such investors have to meet a net-worth criteria verified by a third-party accreditation agency. This will allay concerns regarding investors without the necessary risk appetite, making investments in start-ups through angel funds. Angel funds will conduct their first close, by on-boarding minimum five accredited investors, within 12 months from the date of SEBI communication for taking their private placement memorandum on record. Existing angel funds will get a year to meet the accredited investor requirement. Minimum investment by an angel fund in a start-up may be lowered to ₹10 lakh from ₹25 lakh and the maximum investment limit will be raised to ₹25 crore from ₹10 crore. The 25 per cent diversification limit for angel funds will be done away with. SEBI may tweak rules related to appointment of public interest directors on the boards of market infrastructure institutions such as stock exchanges and clearing corporations. Pointers SEBI may double or quadruple the minimum application size in SME IPOs to ₹2-4 lakh May expand the ambit of UPSI by including restructuring plans, proposed fundraising activities, and one-time bank settlements Allow only accredited investors to invest in angel funds Tweak rules on appointment of public interest directors on the boards of market infrastructure institutions Comments
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A date has been set for a public memorial service for former B.C. Premier John Horgan, who died of cancer on Nov. 12 at the age of 65. Horgan was diagnosed with a third round of cancer shortly before he died, and is survived by his wife of 45 years, Ellie, and their two sons. The province says a public memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Dec. 15 at the Q Centre in Colwood, located at 1767 Island Hwy. CHEK News is planning to broadcast the memorial service live on Dec. 15. Meanwhile, the province says the memorial service will be open to member of the public, though details on how people can attend was not announced Tuesday and will be released “in the coming days.” Several officials will attend the event, including B.C. Premier David Eby and Lt. Gov. Jane Austin. The service will include a religious component by Rev. Dr. Keith Howard, as well as musical interludes and words of remembrance. The funeral comes after the province set up both a virtual and physical book of condolences for the public to remember Horgan. The physical book is located in the B.C. legislature in the Hall of Honour, and is available for signings on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The virtual book of condolences can be found here . The books will remain open until one day after the memorial service is held. ‘John from Langford’ Horgan was MLA for Malahat—Juan de Fuca for nearly 20 years, serving four consecutive terms from 2005 to 2023. He was elected B.C.’s 36th premier in 2017 and served until 2022, when he stepped down following a second bout of cancer. In 2023 he was named Canada’s official ambassador to Germany, a role he held for about six months before having to step away to focus on his health. Following his death, tributes rolled in for the former premier from all sides of the political spectrum, and as far as the prime minister’s office. “John embodied kindness and courage. He was a fighter. He will be celebrated for his leadership and the progress he made on so many important issues,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the time . “Above all, we will remember how John made us feel. His warmth. His positivity. His ability to connect with people irrespective of their politics or beliefs. John leaves behind a profound legacy that will inspire us for generations to come.” Meanwhile, a grassroots effort was also started in Langford, where community members pitched naming a new post-secondary campus that’s currently under construction on Goldstream Avenue “ John Horgan University Campus .” R EAD MORE: Tributes continue to pour in for B.C. former Premier John Horgan(LVS) - Analyzing Las Vegas Sands's Short Interest
BALTIMORE (AP) — Marcus Banks had 14 points in UMBC's 92-69 victory against Morgan State on Wednesday. Banks added six rebounds for the Retrievers (5-4). Bryce Johnson added 11 points while going 4 of 7 (2 for 3 from 3-point range) and also had six assists. Devan Sapp had 10 points and shot 2 of 6 from the field, including 1 for 4 from 3-point range, and went 5 for 6 from the line. The Bears (3-6) were led by Ahmarie Simpkins, who recorded 16 points, 11 rebounds and two steals. Wynston Tabbs added 16 points and two steals for Morgan State. Kiran Oliver had 11 points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .Qatar tribune Tribune News Network Doha The latest Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) survey data from Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) compiled by S&P Global signalled another solid improvement in business conditions in Qatar’s non-energy private sector in November. Demand for goods and services increased further, supporting growth in total activity. The 12-month outlook for activity remained stronger than the long-run survey trend as firms mentioned Qatar’s attractiveness to international investment. The labour market remained very strong, with another near-record increase in employment and sharp wage inflation as firms sought to attract and retain experienced staff. Overall cost inflation retreated from October’s four-year high while firms continued to cut their own prices to boost competitiveness. The Qatar PMI indices are compiled from survey responses from a panel of around 450 private sector companies. The panel covers the manufacturing, construction, wholesale, retail, and services sectors, and reflects the structure of the non-energy economy according to official national accounts data. The headline Qatar Financial Centre PMI is a composite single-figure indicator of non-energy private sector performance. It is derived from indicators for new orders, output, employment, suppliers’ delivery times and stocks of purchases. The PMI edged up to 52.9 in November, from 52.8 in October, signalling stronger overall growth in business conditions in the non-energy private sector economy. The rise in the headline figure in the latest survey took it further above the long-run survey average of 52.3 (since April 2017). The rise in the PMI since October mainly reflected a faster increase in business activity, a survey-record increase in stocks of purchases and a softer improvement in suppliers’ delivery times. Inflows of new business expanded for the eleventh month running, linked to improving market conditions, marketing efforts, and developing client relationships. Outstanding business decreased for the first time in three months as capacity was expanded. Qatar’s non-energy private sector labour market remained very strong in November. Over the past three months employment has risen more quickly than at any other time in the survey history. This was accompanied by further strong wage inflation, with November’s increase the third-fastest on record following on from September and October. Companies reported boosting salaries to retain experienced and skilled staff in a highly competitive market. Overall cost pressures remained strong but eased from October’s four-year high. In contrast, prices charged for goods and services fell for the fourth month running as firms sought to raise competitiveness. Qatari firms maintained an optimistic outlook for the next 12 months in November. The strength of sentiment was broadly in line with the strong long-run survey trend since 2017. Positive forecasts were linked to domestic economic development, investment, population growth and demand in the real estate and construction sectors.Demand for Qatari financial services increased further in November, driving a marked increase in employment in the sector. Total activity rose again, with the seasonally adjusted Financial Services Business Activity Index remaining well above the no-change mark of 50.0 at 53.7, albeit down from 56.7 in October. Companies were strongly optimistic regarding the 12-month outlook, although sentiment was slightly softer than the long-run series trend (since 2017). Financial services companies cut their prices charged for the fourth month running, and at the fastest rate on record. Meanwhile, average input prices rose at the slowest rate in three months. Yousuf Mohamed Al-Jaida, Chief Executive Officer, QFC Authority said “The headline PMI edged up to 52.9 in November, surpassing the third quarter average of 52.0 and the long-run trend level of 52.3, indicating stronger business conditions in the non-energy sector. “New business and output expanded further, while the labour market remained robust. Over the past three months, the Employment Index has registered the highest levels in the survey history. Demand for workers and efforts to retain experienced staff have been reflected in the survey data for wages, with the Staff Costs Index remaining higher than at any time prior to August. Copy 04/12/2024 10Aston Villa had a stoppage-time goal disallowed as they drew 0-0 with Juventus in the Champions League. Morgan Rogers looked to have given Unai Emery’s side another famous win when he slammed a loose ball home at the death, but referee Jesus Gil Manzano ruled Diego Carlos to have fouled Juve goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio and the goal was chalked off. It was a disappointment for Villa, who remain unbeaten at home in their debut Champions League campaign and are still in contention to qualify automatically for the last 16. A very controversial finish at Villa Park 😲 Morgan Rogers' late goal is ruled out for a foul on Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio and the match ends 0-0 ❌ 📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/MyYL5Vdy3r — Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 27, 2024 Emiliano Martinez had earlier displayed why he was named the best goalkeeper in the world as his wonder save kept his side level in the second half. The Argentina international paraded his two Yashin Trophies on the pitch before kick-off at Villa Park and then showed why he won back-to-back FIFA awards when he denied Francisco Conceicao. Before Rogers’ moment of drama in the fourth minute of added time, the closest Villa came to scoring was in the first half when Lucas Digne’s free-kick hit the crossbar. But a draw was a fair result which leaves Villa out of the top eight on goal difference and Juventus down in 19th. Before the game Emery called Juventus one of the “best teams in the world, historically and now”, but this was an Italian side down to the bare bones. Only 14 outfield players made the trip from Turin, with striker Dusan Vlahovic among those who stayed behind. The opening 30 minutes were forgettable before the game opened up. Ollie Watkins, still chasing his first Champions League goal, had Villa’s first presentable chance as he lashed an effort straight at Di Gregorio. Matty Cash then had a vicious effort from the resulting corner which was blocked by Federico Gatti and started a counter-attack which ended in Juventus striker Timothy Weah. Villa came closest to breaking the deadlock at the end of the first half when Digne’s 20-yard free-kick clipped the top of the crossbar and went over. Martinez then produced his brilliant save just after the hour. A corner made its way through to the far post where Conceicao was primed to head in at the far post, but Martinez sprawled himself across goal to scoop the ball away. How has he kept that one out?! 🤯 Emi Martinez with an INCREDIBLE save to keep it goalless at Villa Park ⛔️ 📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/OkcWHB7YIk — Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 27, 2024 Replays showed most of the ball went over the line, but the Argentinian got there with millimetres to spare. At the other end another fine goal-line block denied John McGinn as Manuel Locatelli got his foot in the way with Di Gregorio beaten. The game looked to be petering out until a last-gasp free-kick saw Rogers slam home, but whistle-happy official Gil Manzano halted the celebrations by ruling the goal out.
GUY RITCHIE rewound 24 years to a real-life Snatch this week after thieves targeted his new big-budget set. The British director was working in London on his Paramount+ project The Associate, starring Tom Hardy, Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan . Insiders told me all hell broke out on the Isle of Dogs when two men in a Toyota Prius swooped after spotting camera equipment in the street. My mole explained: “Guy had shut roads for the shoot and the production was teeming with security and crew. “Out of nowhere, two blokes arrived in a Prius and started asking for directions. “Their questions distracted people and at that moment, the other bloke jumped out and grabbed a bag of camera equipment that was on the side of the road. READ MORE ON GUY RITCHIE ALWAYS A GENTLEMAN Vinnie Jones reveals major update on Guy Ritchie’s Netflix The Gentleman GANG HORROR How ruthless gang carried out blood-soaked drug heist 'like Guy Ritchie film' “He jumped back in the car and they sped off. The security guards started going bananas because they’d basically been robbed in broad daylight. “It was pretty embarrassing and a costly mistake. The kit on those films isn’t cheap.” Plans for Guy’s new show were first revealed this year, with the Lock Stock director signing up Tom, Helen and Pierce to star in it. The series will focus on a set of elite London “fixers”, basically gangsters, and wheeler-dealer businesses they run. Most read in Bizarre COPS PROBE Scottish football club at centre of police investigation into alleged fraud HOOPY HOLIDAYS Celtic fans say 'tears are running down my face' after watching Xmas advert ICE STORM Storm Bert 'danger to life' warning with heavy snow, freezing rain & 70mph wind COMIC'S CASTLE Still Game star takes £150,000 hit to offload luxury £4m Scots castle Guy, who directed the 2000 crime comedy Snatch, will be counting on the show to be a hit — and given the success of his Netflix series The Gentlemen, I’ve got high hopes. The series was watched more than 45million times in the first month and now a second season is in the works, with characters Eddie Horniman and Susie Glass getting another run out. As long as Guy tightens up his security from now on, hopefully the dramas will only be on screen. The Gentlemen Season 1 Trailer 9 Guy is making his new TV show The Associate with Paramount + Credit: Getty Lippy birthday to Hailey 9 Hailey Bieber lounges around for a photoshoot as she celebrates her first birthday since becoming a mum Credit: Capture Media Agency 9 Model Hailey does her make-up while lying on the sofa in her pants Credit: Capture Media Agency 9 Hailey is turning 28 and posed in a series of pictures for her cosmetics brand Rhode Skin Credit: Capture Media Agency HAILEY BIEBER lounges around for a photoshoot as she celebrates her first birthday since becoming a mum. She turns 28 today and posed in a series of pictures for her cosmetics brand Rhode Skin. Hailey, who had son Jack Blues with husband Justin Bieber at the end of August, said: “I love launching something special at Rhode every year for my birthday.” The model, who did her make-up while lying on the sofa in her pants in one of the pictures, has had a whole week of birthday treats already. At the weekend she went to see Sabrina Carpenter in concert and then on Wednesday went out for dinner with one of her mates. Many happy returns, Hailey. Cher keeps movieing 9 Cher is nearly 80 but is already lining up her next film role Credit: Getty 9 Cher reveals how Francis Ford Coppola got in touch about doing a movie the pair discussed 20 years ago Credit: Rex SHE might be two years away from 80, but Cher is already lining up her next film role. The singer, who last appeared in 2018’s Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, made the revelation during a talk in New York while promoting her new memoir. She said: “Francis Ford Coppola sent me an email the other day. “He wants us to do a movie that we talked about 20 years ago. He got me into movies. He once said to me when I was at Vegas, ‘Why are you not doing movies?’. “Singing and dancing is like having a party at someone’s house. Acting is like having a party at your house and one is more fun.” But Francis needs to get in fast, as Oscar-winner Cher is already batting off deals to turn her two-part memoir – the first of which came out this week – into a biopic. She added: “It could make a good movie. It could be like an eight or nine-parter. “That is true. I have not read the book as I wrote it. I thought, ‘Well, if I wrote it, I don’t have to read it’. “I have another book that is coming out next Christmas. I guess I will read it when I am old.” I hope I have this attitude when I’m 78. Shabby chic at awards 9 Shaboozey wore a natty green suit with embroidered detail at the Country Music Association Awards in Nashville Credit: Getty SHABOOZEY has had a pretty good year after a global hit single, collaborating with Beyonce and being nominated for five Grammy Awards The man behind A Bar Song (Tipsy) wore a natty green suit with embroidered detail as he toasted his achievements at the Country Music Association Awards in Nashville on Wednesday – although he left empty handed. Despite being nominated for New Artist and Single of the Year, Shaboozey was beaten on both fronts. At least he had an excuse to wear the suit. James in ode to his ADHD 9 Singer James Arthur has written a song named after ADHD Credit: EDWARD COOKE JAMES ARTHUR revealed he has ADHD – and has written a song named after the disorder which affects attention span and self-control. The singer, below, said of the tune, out today: “It is about being loved in the way you want to be loved. “When you experience that, it’s something truly special, especially if you tend to be self-deprecating or have trouble receiving love due to issues or conditions that others might not understand. ADHD is one of those conditions – but when someone accepts you for all your flaws, it can feel like your dreams are a reality.” Other new releases include Tiny Habit’s Lizzy McAlpine collaboration For Sale Sign, Ashaine White's I Sing To Myself and Rose's Number One Girl. South London choir Libera have released their album Dream and will go up against new records from Joan Armatrading and Michael Kiwunaka. Bastille have dropped a video for track Eve & Paradise Lost, featuring Bridgerton’s Simone Ashley. Poppy's bud 9 Poppy Ajudha is keen to link up with Raye in the studio Credit: Handout POPPY AJUDHA hit it off with Raye years before they became famous – and the singer-songwriter is now keen to link up in the studio. She has known the six-time Brits winner for years and reckons her fellow soul performer is an inspiration. Poppy, whose eponymous second album, is out today, said in an exclusive chat: “I’ve known Raye for a long time. She’s become so huge as an artist. She’s so incredible. I’ve never written with her but would love to. “Raye would be a huge inspiration for the way she does her live show, and to play with orchestras.” She added: “I think I’ve gained so many skills making this album. Now I want to take those skills and make something even bigger and better.” She said the album is “uplifting” and the result of her being a “meticulous control freak”. But it was clearly enjoyable because she is raring to make more music. Poppy explained: “Being in the studio is my favourite part of being an artist. I’m really missing it at the moment. I’m planning to go to LA in January to write my next album. “Songwriting is what makes me feel like a human with purpose in the world.” Addison: Brit role a no go MUSICIAN and TikTok star Addison Rae has ruled herself out of playing Britney Spears in the singer’s biopic – and says others should avoid it too. She told iHeartRadio: “I honestly don’t think anyone deserves to play her. She’s such an enigma and icon. “I don’t even think it’s right to compare me to her at all. “I support anything and everything Britney Spears ever wants to do in her life and career, and I think she’ll have the best opinion on who she thinks that should be.” DANCE duo Sigma will headline the Casa Bacardi night at Boxpark Croydon, tomorrow. The South London venue is being transformed into a club space with a huge lighting rig. Meanwhile, Boxpark Wembley in North West London will host A Very Noughties Christmas on December 14 featuring Lemar, Blazin’ Squad, Big Brovaz and Booty Luv. BILLIE EILISH has been named Apple Music’s Artist of the Year after her third album Hit Me Hard And Soft. Read more on the Scottish Sun DISHING IT OUT I reviewed Scotland's 'most expensive restaurant' - it's a 9 out of 10 SHOCK THEFT Scot Prem top scorer's car stolen from drive - it's got a unique registration It soared to No1 on the streaming site’s album charts in 138 countries and she later teamed up with Charli XCX for a hit reworking of the British singer’s song Guess. Billie said: “Since day one, Apple Music has supported my music and artistry, and I am both honoured and humbled to receive this recognition.”Man dead after truck, two cars crash on NSW highwayExperts say Canada needs to be prepared to take action if U.S. president-elect Donald Trump goes through with his threats of significant tariffs when he takes office in January. Steve Verheul, former chief trade negotiator for Canada, says though the threat may not seem credible to many, the country still needs to take it seriously by engaging with the new administration and considering potential retaliation. "We’re in a very uncertain period right now," said Verheul during an online panel hosted by BMO on Wednesday. Trump has said he will introduce tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports into the U.S. unless they are able to halt the movement of illegal drugs and migrants across their borders. Experts have warned such tariffs would be damaging to the Canadian economy. "Our economies are integrated, our supply chains are closely intertwined, and we would be in for a highly disruptive period of time if such tariffs were to be put in place," said Verheul. "So I think the question now is, how will Canada respond?" Canada will do what it can to try and dissuade Trump from enacting such a dramatic policy, said Verheul, but if Trump makes good on his threat come inauguration day, Canada needs to be ready to retaliate, such as with tariffs of its own. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently flew to meet with Trump at Mar-a-Lago, and briefed opposition leaders this week on the government's plan for the Canada-U.S. border. Verheul was joined on the panel by BMO chief economist Doug Porter and Yung-Yu Ma, chief investment officer for BMO Wealth Management in the U.S. Trump initially said he would enact 10-per-cent tariffs on all imports, with a 60-per-cent hit for China. But more recently he threatened Canada and Mexico with 25-per-cent tariffs. Porter said such high tariffs on all imports are unlikely to happen, especially on key imports like energy. Financial markets don't appear to believe the threats will become reality, he said — but that doesn't mean they should be disregarded. "I think we should take the threat seriously, or at the very least prepare and consider what broad-based tariffs could mean for the economy," he said. “The reality is, we're dealing with an overtly protectionist president who is very fond of using tariffs." Verheul said 25-per-cent tariffs across the board would be a significant hit to Canada's economy, which relies heavily on exports to the U.S., as does Mexico. Trump is a "big fan of tariffs," said Verheul, and sees them as a way to bring production back to the U.S., address trade deficits, and increase revenue. But while Trump's interest in tariffs isn't new, Ma said this time around we're dealing with a different Trump, one who is no longer a political outsider. “President Trump is definitely more emboldened with tariffs this time around than he was in 2017, 2018," he said. While Ma also doesn't think the threats of sweeping tariffs are credible, he could see Trump enacting more limited tariffs on certain goods as bargaining chips. The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) is up for review in 2026, meaning 2025 is a year for negotiations, said Verheul. "I think there's a good chance that all of these tariff discussions will start to evolve into a renegotiation of the agreement, and we would attempt to address some of those issues within that negotiation," he said. "So hopefully short term, but it's going to be a rocky period and a lot of chaos in the market."
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'This drug gives us hope': Advocates call for Sask. Party to cover new epilepsy medicationThe KTC MegPad 32-inch Android tablet is available from Amazon now for $722. With a 32-inch display on a rolling tablet, this device can serve many use cases. The MegPad uses Android 13, which is a bit long in the tooth. I never thought a large Android tablet on a rolling stand with an accompanying mouse would be of any consequence to me. Don't get me wrong, I'm a fan of Android tablets and think they're every bit as good as iPads (although the typical hardware found on an Android tablet pales in comparison). When a company requested I review a massive tablet on a stand, my initial reaction was, "Yeah, that's not going to go anywhere." Also: The best Black Friday deals: Live updates I was wrong. At least, I think I was wrong. This device turns out to be not only pretty cool, but very handy. If you have a use for such a beast, the KTC MegPad is ready to serve. Before we dive into my experience with the device, let's talk specs. KTC MegPad 32-inch Android tablet This massive Android tablet can serve as a kiosk, an entertainment center, and much more. The specs 32-inch display that rotates, swivels, and tilts on an included stand Display - 4K touchscreen capable of a 3840 x 2160 resolution @ 1080p with a 3000:1 contrast ratio, and a 121% sRGB color gamut One HDMI 2.0 port, one USB-A 3.0 port, and one USB-A 2.0 port RAM - 8 GB CPU - Rockchip octa-core Storage - 128 GB OS - Android 13 Wireless and wired projection sharing 9500 mAh battery provides up to 11 hours of usage on a 3-hour charge Dual 6W 3D speakers 1-year warranty and lifetime tech support Mouse included (with USB dongle) Price - Amazon $722. Also: I upgraded to Android 15 on my Pixel 9 Pro. Here are my 6 favorite features so far My experience First things first. This thing was not easy to assemble. There were only four pieces (tablet, stand pole, stand base, and mouse shelf), but putting this baby together would have been exponentially easier with two people. I can put anything together -- I grew up assembling bicycles -- but this thing nearly bested me. The specific challenge here was having to connect a short power cable from the stand to the monitor while ensuring the cable did not get in the way. This was not easy. Eventually, I did get it assembled, but then I ran into another situation. How does this thing power on? The instruction manual left much to be desired. Eventually, I realized there was a small black button on the base (not the power button!) that has to be pressed before the tablet could draw power. Once that button was pressed, I could press the power button on the back, and the tablet came to life. Setup was as easy as any Android device: Connect it to the Wi-Fi network, associate it with my Google account, and wait for it to complete. Greeted by the home screen, I decided to see what it would be like to play a game on this thing. Also: The best Android tablets: Expert tested and reviewed Lately, I've been enjoying an older game, Fallout Shelter , a basic sim game with a clever aesthetic and plenty of replayability. One of the first things I noticed was that the matte display does a fairly good job of preventing too much glare, which is very important with a screen this large. The screen does have that textured feeling, which can be a bit disconcerting when using it as a touch screen. Fortunately, there's the included mouse, which makes working with Android even more efficient. Who'd have thought, huh? The MegPad has two speakers, two USB-A ports, and one HDMI port on the back side. To use the mouse, you must remove the dongle from within the battery compartment, plug it in, insert an AA battery (not included), and switch it on. The mouse will be automatically recognized and connected, and you'll be ready to go. Use the scroll wheel to zoom in and zoom out and the left button to click. But what is this tablet for? That question lingered in my brain as I tested the KTC MegPad. At first, the cut-and-dry answer would be something like a kiosk for enabling users to log into a service, order things, or interact with a business. However, the longer I used the tablet, the more I realized it has far more applications than I originally thought. A kitchen tablet to view recipes A tablet for the garage An educational center for children A gaming device A device to view stocks An entertainment center And that's just scratching the surface. For my purposes, however, it's been stationed to the side of my desk so I can look over and check how my Fallout shelter is doing -- and it's been quite enjoyable. Also: I bought the Google Pixel 9 Pro, and its most impressive feature was not the software The MegPad isn't the most powerful tablet I've ever used, nor is the display the best. However, its size and stand make up for what it lacks in performance. Here's one thing I've always found with Android tablets : As long as there are enough resources to power the OS and some apps, I can make it work. The mid-range CPU and 8 GB of RAM are just enough to keep this tablet humming. It won't break any benchmark records, but the specs will serve you fine. My biggest issue with the MegPad is that it's running Android 13, which was released in 2022. Android 13 is still supported, and I'd imagine it'll remain so until around 2026. Even so, once you've become used to using Android 15 , going back can feel like you're using something antiquated and far less efficient. Even so -- it works well. ZDNET's buying advice This device is a bit of a hard sell because, at first blush, you might not think this is something you'd ever want or need. The thing is, once you start using it, you'll realize that it's something you wish you had had all along. Over the past couple of weeks, I've grown pretty fond of the MegPad and have started using it more and more. Yes, the cost is high for a tablet with an aging operating system and mid-range specs, but the size and convenience of having it on a stand make this thing very useful. I can imagine tons of use cases for both families and businesses. One of the best QLED TVs I've tested isn't made by Samsung or Hisense (and it's $500 off) I finally found a wireless Android Auto adapter that's reliable, functional, and affordable This is the most bizarre portable power station I've tested - and it actually works One of the best cheap soundbars I've tested performs as well as models twice its price
UMBC defeats Morgan State 92-69Winless in rivalry, Dan Lanning, No. 1 Oregon determined to tame Huskies
Winless in rivalry, Dan Lanning, No. 1 Oregon determined to tame Huskies