646jili A look at Western fantasies of unveiling and its disregard for Muslim women’s values

Tesla has made several changes to its Supercharger network, including adding longer cables, to make the experience smoother as more non-Tesla EVs join the network and complicate things. In North America, Tesla has been opening up the Supercharger network to electric vehicles from other automakers for the better part of the year. Things have been moving slowly, and there are a few reasons for that. First off, earlier this year, and the company had to rebuild it, including hiring back some employees. That has slowed things down. But Tesla also has to take things a bit slower because non-Tesla EVs using the Supercharger network complicate things. We previously reported that the fact many charge ports are located at different locations on the vehicles than on Tesla vehicles, which are already on the back of the driver’s side. It forces those EV drivers to park in a way that blocks another charging stall when plugging in at a Supercharger. Longer cables at Supercharger stations are expected to fix that, but Tesla has been slow to deploy its new V4 stations, which are equipped with much longer cables. Tesla has now released an update on the situation and how it is addressing the situation: These are all great updates. It is frustrating to see on Tesla’s navigation that there are stalls available at the Supercharger station you are going to just to find out that the information is not accurate. In some cases, that can be because there’s indeed a stall where no one is plugged in, but you can’t park there because a non-Tesla EV is blocking it, which is OK as per Tesla’s integration of non-Tesla EVs. It looks like now Tesla is using the data it gets when a non-Tesla EV plugs into a Supercharger to figure out whether it must be blocking the next stall. If that’s the case, that Supercharger will be marked as non-available. It probably should have been done from the start, but I’m happy to see it happening now. Tesla has also disclosed that it is designing and redesigning stations so that it wouldn’t happen in the first place. With Supercharger V4 having longer cables, Tesla now expects to have more longer than shorter cables within the next year and a half. Finally, Tesla also says that it has been encouraging other automakers to place their charge port at the location. I hope the latter point proves successful because I think it’s a no-brainer. The charge port should be at the back of the driver’s side. Some automakers have also been using dual ports, most often with only one DC fast-charging one, on the driver’s side, and another level 2 charge port on the right side, which makes sense, especially for street charging in cities. Great updates from Tesla Charging. and subscribe to the . Tesla is a transportation and energy company. It... Fred is the Editor in Chief and Main Writer at Electrek. You can send tips on Twitter (DMs open) or via email: fred@9to5mac.com Through Zalkon.com, you can check out Fred’s portfolio and get monthly green stock investment ideas. Get interesting investment ideas by Fred Lambert ChargePoint Home WiFi Enabled Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger

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The Lakers are rolling at 10-5, including a near perfect 6-1 record at home, but amid the team's success, rookie Bronny James continues to struggle finding his place in the NBA. So much so that BIG3 co-founder Ice Cube is already extending an invitation to join his league if things don't pan out. "He can always come out and try to make a team," Cube said on Real 92.3 LA's The Cruz Show . "We can't give him a space, but he can get drafted and earn a space." Ice Cube on Bronny joining the BIG3: ‘He can always come out and try to make a team’ pic.twitter.com/BJ1QjWV6dq The numbers tell a stark story about James's professional start. Across all competitions - summer league, NBA games, and G League appearances - the rookie is shooting just 29% (19-for-65) from the field. In his six NBA appearances, he's averaging a mere 0.7 points and 0.3 assists in 2.7 minutes per game. His G League numbers aren't much better, posting 5.0 points and 3.0 assists in 28.5 minutes across two games. Ken Blaze-Imagn Images While some point to Bronny's cardiac incident as a factor in his slow development, the issues run deeper. Game after game, his passive play has become increasingly apparent - rarely initiating offense and seldom attacking the basket. The emergence of other young Lakers talents like Austin Reaves and Dalton Knecht has only highlighted these struggles. Currently on a four-year, $7.9 million rookie deal with a team option for 2027-28, it's premature for James to consider Cube's offer. However, the mere suggestion from the BIG3 founder - who recently offered Caitlin Clark $10 million - shows how far expectations have fallen for LeBron's eldest son. Related: Lakers Face Tough Decision With Knecht After Rookie's Breakout Week

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The winner takes it all... even before the votes are countedSACRAMENTO — Before this year’s presidential election slips into gloomy history, we should pause to slam our moldy, undemocratic vote-counting system called the electoral college. If Donald Trump had to win, it’s good that he prevailed in both the archaic electoral college and the national popular vote. The popular vote should always settle who is elected president. Name one other office in America that’s not decided by who gets the most votes — from state governor down to first-grade class president. But the national popular vote doesn’t count for squat in a U.S. presidential election. All that counts is our ancient electoral college system, rooted in the Founders’ appeasement of Southern slave states. It’s beneficial, however, that Trump apparently also won the popular vote. Because now we should be able to hold a rational conversation about the evils of the electoral college without being tagged as poor-loser partisans whining that the Democrat lost despite having been favored by most American voters. There are two bad things about our electoral college system: Big states, little states, it doesn’t matter. If they’re blue or red, their voters are relegated to the cheap seats as distant spectators to the main event being fought in a few purple swing states. The blues and reds are taken for granted and snubbed The candidates don’t hear from California voters about the acute water troubles in our state. But they’re lobbied about manufacturing declines in Michigan and Pennsylvania. It’s an old cliche and true: Squeaky wheels get the government grease. It’s not the electoral college, per se, that’s the culprit. It’s how the electoral votes are awarded by the states. They’re parceled out on a winner-take-all basis. If a candidate carries a state by one vote or 1 million, it’s irrelevant. All the state’s electoral votes go to the popular vote winner. Two small states — Nebraska and Maine — are exceptions. They partially award electoral votes based on who wins in congressional districts. That makes more sense than strict winner-take-all. In California, at least 5.9 million people voted for Republican Trump. They might as well have used their ballots for fireplace kindling. All 54 of the state’s electoral votes will be awarded to Democrat Kamala Harris, who received roughly 9.1 million votes. (When the final count is in, the vote totals will increase slightly.) Same thing in Texas, only vice versa. There, 4.8 million people voted for Harris. But all 40 electoral votes are going to Trump, who was supported by 6.4 million people. Republican voters were effectively disenfranchised in California, as Democrats were in Texas. Polling has shown that the overwhelming majority of Americans — including Californians — want to junk the electoral college system and elect the president by popular vote. A September survey by the Pew Research Center found that 63% of Americans prefer that the presidency be decided by the national popular vote. Conservative Republicans, however, like the status quo — no doubt because two GOP candidates in recent years have won the presidency while losing the popular vote: Trump in 2016 and George W. Bush in 2000. But junking the electoral college entirely won’t happen any time soon because it’s politically impossible. It would require a constitutional amendment. And that would need a two-thirds vote by each house of Congress — both about to be controlled by the GOP — plus ratification by three-fourths of state legislatures. Red state politicians won’t sign off because Republican candidates benefit from the current nonsense. Neither would purple states because they enjoy all the attention and campaign bucks as “battlegrounds.” But there’s a way to reform the system and still retain the electoral college. Just change how the electoral votes are awarded. Parcel them out in proportion to each candidate’s popular vote in the state. In California, Harris got roughly 59% of the vote and Trump 38%. Minority candidates picked up 3%, but I’d shift their tiny amount to the major contenders for electoral vote purposes. Harris would wind up with 33 and Trump with 21. In Texas, Trump would win 23 electoral votes and Harris 17. A proportional allocation system “would make sure that every vote counts and lessen the likelihood that the candidate who loses the popular vote will become president,” UC Berkeley law school dean Erwin Chemerinsky wrote in a recent Sacramento Bee op-ed. Besides Trump and Bush, three presidents were elected in the 1880s while losing the popular vote: John Quincy Adams, Rutherford B. Hayes and Benjamin Harrison. “The electoral college was based on the framers’ distrust of majority rule and was a tremendous boost to slave states’ political power,” Chemerinsky told me. The South fretted about the North’s larger population and the Yankees’ political clout. So the founders compromised. Slaves wouldn’t be allowed to vote, but they could count as three-fifths of a person for the purpose of apportioning members of the House of Representatives based on population. That strengthened the South in the electoral college because a state’s number of electors is based mostly on the size of its House delegation. But every state also gets an elector for each senator. And each state is entitled to two, regardless of its size — an allotment designed to dilute the power of big states. I didn’t do all the math, but it’s a safe assumption that Trump still would have won the electoral college vote under a proportional allocation system. Chemerinsky, a constitutional scholar, believes the reform could be passed by Congress without amending the Constitution. But first, Americans would need to insist that they elect the president, not the states.

An archbishop's knock formally restores Notre Dame to life as winds howl and heads of state look on

LONGBOAT KEY, Fla., Nov. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rumble ( NASDAQ:RUM ), the video-sharing platform and cloud services provider, today sued the California Attorney General and Secretary of State over a recently passed law that unconstitutionally punishes certain political speech. Rumble is represented by Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), a non-profit law firm that defends the right to speak freely and which also represents the satirical website "The Babylon Bee” in a related lawsuit. The suit was filed in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California, Sacramento Division. The law at issue, AB 2655, requires online platforms to receive reports about posts related to elections, public officials, and candidates for office that are deemed "materially deceptive” and then remove or label the content. The law was fast-tracked in July when California Gov. Gavin Newsom complained that an online video satirizing the Democratic candidate for president, Kamala Harris, ought to be "illegal.” The state legislature responded by passing a package of bills, which Newsom signed. He subsequently celebrated that he had successfully banned the video that had offended him in the first place. "The very thought of the government judging the content of political speech, and then deciding whether it should be permitted, censored, or eliminated altogether is about the most chilling thing you could imagine,” said Chris Pavlovski, Chairman and CEO of Rumble. "Rumble will always celebrate freedom and support creative independence, so we're delighted to work with ADF to help protect lawful online expression.” ABOUT RUMBLE Rumble is a high-growth video platform and cloud services provider that is creating an independent infrastructure. Rumble's mission is to restore the internet to its roots by making it free and open once again. For more information, visit: corp.rumble.com . Contact: [email protected]hen Hurricane Helene slammed into Florida’s shoulder earlier this fall, it brought the largest storm surge ever recorded in the area. The storm had formed just four days earlier as a tropical depression, but when it made landfall, it was already a Category 4 storm, lashing the Tampa Bay area with savage winds and rain, flooding and laying waste to whole communities. Two weeks later, Hurricane Milton deepened the tragedy when it hit the Florida peninsula, unleashing catastrophic flooding and 100-mile-per-hour gusts, killing multiple people, and breaking meteorological records. Climate scientists have been warning for years that climate change will—and already is—supercharging storms broadly speaking. But connecting specific rates of warming to the ferocity of specific storms was out of reach. Now a team of scientists has developed a model that, for the first time, allows them to calculate how warming ocean temperatures have contributed directly to wind speeds in individual hurricanes. Using this model, they were able to determine, for instance, that climate change bumped Hurricane Rafael earlier this month up two whole categories (from 1 to 3) and pushed another two hurricanes this year into category 5, the highest category, in which wind speeds exceed 157 mph. “It’s really the evolution of our science on sea surface temperature attribution that has allowed this work to take place,” Daniel Gilford, an atmospheric scientist with the independent nonprofit research outfit Climate Central and the lead author of said in a press briefing. Gilford and his colleagues found that due to higher sea surface temperatures, maximum wind speeds were 19 mph higher on average in 84 percent of the hurricanes in the north Atlantic that occurred between 2019 and 2023, and, according to an additional analysis, most as well—enough to elevate them an entire category on the Saffir-Simpson scale. Moreover, global warming caused wind speeds in three of the hurricanes to course roughly 34 mph faster than they would have otherwise. When storms double their wind speed, they can cause 256 times as much damage. To make these calculations, Gilford and his team first determined how much cooler the surface of the sea would be without human-induced climate change. “Climate models and observations are both showing us that, in a world without climate change, temperatures would be somewhere between 2 to 3 degrees Fahrenheit cooler,” Gilford said. Because the intensity of a hurricane is determined foremost by the temperature of the seas over which it passes, Gilford and team used the pre-warming sea surface temperatures to determine the maximum wind speeds that any particular hurricane theoretically would have reached without climate change. From there, they used statistical relationships gleaned from past hurricane seasons to estimate what the wind speeds might have been without warming. They could then compare these numbers against the speeds that were actually recorded to determine how much climate change likely ramped up the intensity. Friederike Otto, a climatologist with World Weather Attribution, a nonprofit research group based in the United Kingdom, who wasn’t involved in Gilford’s study but who does work with Climate Central, says the methodology the scientists used looks solid. She has done similar work using to determine how climate change has also increased the amount of rainfall that hurricanes cause. “We now have a lot of observations and many years of data where we see these changes.” Gilford knows firsthand how hurricanes affect people’s lives. A tree fell on his family’s home in central Florida during Hurricane Jeanne in 2004, which he said catalyzed his current career. Today, he lives in Orlando, and hurricanes continue to impact his life year after year. “I care a lot about this problem,” Gilford said in a press briefing about his study, “and we should care about this problem because hurricanes are changing.” Jumps in category strength carry tremendous hazards. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the potential damages caused by a storm increase exponentially—by a power of eight—with increases in wind speed. So, for example, when storms double their wind speed, they can . The new study does more than just reveal how climate change has worsened major hurricanes to date. It provides a method that scientists can use in the future to say, in near-real time, how global warming is affecting a specific, singular cyclone. This should help communities not only prepare for the supercharged storms that are becoming more standard fare, but also to better understand the critical connections between those storms and the forces of climate change. Posted on Syris Valentine is an essayist and freelance journalist with a focus on climate and social justice. Outside of his newsletter “Just Progress,” his work has appeared in and elsewhere. Cutting-edge science, unraveled by the very brightest living thinkers.

No. 9 SMU aims to improve playoff odds vs. Cal( MENAFN - IANS) Seoul, Dec 16 (IANS) South Korea's Semiconductor exports face growing threats from China, Taiwan and Malaysia amid intensifying global competition in advanced industries, an industry report showed on Monday. The report from the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency, better known as KOTRA, on the export similarity index (ESI) for semiconductors showed China as being South Korea's top competitor in the sector, with an ESI score of 72.2 in the third quarter of the year. Taiwan's ESI with South Korea in semiconductors rose significantly, increasing 7.6 points over four years to reach 32.5, the largest growth among major semiconductor exporters, reports Yonhap news agency. Malaysia's ESI increased 6 points to 50.5 over the same period, marking the second-highest growth after Taiwan. KOTRA noted that Malaysia has emerged as a notable competitor, ranking fifth globally in semiconductor exports and handling 13 per cent of the world's semiconductor assembly, testing and packaging processes. The report highlighted concerns that South Korea's failure to secure a technological edge over competitors could weaken its export competitiveness in the sector. "This is a critical time to leverage technological strengths to expand South Korea's market share in export sectors," KOTRA said in the report, adding, "South Korean firms must urgently prepare strategies to strengthen their export competitiveness." Meanwhile, South Korea's exports grew 12.4 per cent from a year earlier in the first 10 days of this month on strong shipments of semiconductors, data showed on Wednesday. Outbound shipments reached $17.6 billion in the December 1-10 period, compared with $15.6 billion tallied a year earlier, according to the data from the Korea Customs Service. Imports gained 11.6 per cent on-year to $19.1 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $1.55 billion. Adjusted for the number of working days, daily average exports increased 5 percent on-year to $2.34 billion, the agency said. This year's period included 7.5 working days, compared with 7 working days over the same timeframe last year. "Our exports continue to show upward momentum as both the total and daily average exports have increased compared to the same period last year," said Jo Eek-no, director general for international trade policy at the industry ministry. Exports of semiconductors surged 43 per cent on-year to $3.61 billion over the cited period. -IANS na/ MENAFN15122024000231011071ID1108995780 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.

Share Tweet Share Share Email As we are approaching the hottest summer days many Australians might have been searching for the most efficient way of beating the scorching heat. Unlike last summer, this season is going to be extremely hot and many people aren’t financially ready to crank their energy sucking central cooling system. What is the way forward? Coldeez Cooling ACE often written as Cold Eeze Cooling ACE has been popular in the market and Claims to use advanced evaporative technology featuring bladeless design to chill any room down in a seconds no matter the temperature. Truly, most of the similar air coolers in the past failed to meet their promises. Oftentimes most advertisers use features seen in high end Cooling systems to market cheap mass produced brands, making thousands of dollars without solving any problem. With this in mind, many people have been questioning the authenticity of the Coldeez Cooling ACE, the manufacturer, and why it is trending in Australia. Today, I’m going to give an in-depth review of the Sherum ColdEeze Cooling ACE and I will be sharing real customers’ experiences which might help you know if it is Authentic or just a hype. It is also available in some local stores, mostly in Australia where it is sold mostly. For online shoppers, I have also linked to the official website where you can get it at discounted prices as well. What Is Coldeez Cooling ACE? Coldeez Cooling ACE is a portable air cooler that uses advanced evaporative technology to chill down any room in a seconds. It is compact, portable and extremely lightweight. It is powered by an in-built lithium-ion rechargeable battery and can last for several hours without shutting down. It boasts incredible features and offers three cooling modes – Cool Mode, Chill Mode, and Freeze Mode to provide unparalleled Cooling-Off experience to beat the scorching heat. ColdEeze Cooling ACE uses innovative bladeless technology, powerful airflow and energy efficient technologies. It is ideal for cooling personal spaces, it is safe and offers a smart cooling experience all summer long. ColdEeze Cooling ACE mimics most high-end air coolers though it might not compete favourably with some top brands though it is another standout option that can keep you cold all summer long. It can be placed on a table either vertical or horizontal or can be hung on a wall in either direction as well. Coldeez Cooling ACE offers a portable cooling experience. Many people have been using it in their house, offices, kitchen, and other spaces that need to cool down. It is an advanced Cooling system with an affordable price to enable many households to buy it without feeling any financial pressure. The Coldeez Cooling ACE is a top notch Cooling system that shouldn’t be ignored. It is currently selling in Australia with thousands of happy customers and impressive 4.8 star ratings. Order ColdEeze Cooling ACE today from the official website and start saving on your cooling bills. Currently one unit is sold at around AU$90 with possible free shipping. Key Highlights Cools rooms down by 30°F in seconds 3 fan speeds – Cool, Chill and Freeze Whisper quiet operation at only 20 dB No-leak durable water tank Operates for hours on built-in battery Weighs only 1 pound for portability Costs pennies a day to run Rated 4.99/5 by customers Features Of Sherum Cold Eeze Cooling ACE Coldeez Cooling ACE comes with impressive features mostly seen in high-end air coolers pricing hundreds of dollars. Here are some of the features advertised by the manufacturer on their official website: Customizable Temperature Control: Coldeez Cooling ACE allows Users to precisely adjust the temperature to their preferred level, ensuring optimal comfort and relaxation. Variable Cooling Modes : The device offers multiple cooling settings, (Cooling mode, chilling mode and freeze mode) allowing users to select the perfect mode to suit their cooling needs. Convenient Timer Function : A built-in timer enables users to set specific cooling sessions, making it easy to optimize their cooling experience Long-Lasting Rechargeable Battery : Coldeez Cooling ACE features a rechargeable battery that provides hours of continuous use, making it perfect for extended cooling. Ergonomic and Comfortable Design : It is designed to fit comfortably in any place, ensuring optimal cooling and comfort without sacrifice. Portable and Compact Design : Coldeez Cooling ACE is designed to be portable and compact, making it easy to take on the go and use wherever cooling is needed. User-Friendly Interface : Cold Eeze Cooling ACE features an intuitive interface that makes it easy to operate and customize the cooling experience. Quiet and Discreet Operation : Cold Eeze Cooling ACE operates quietly, ensuring that users can enjoy uninterrupted cooling without distractions. Durable and Reliable Construction : It is built to last, with durable materials and construction that ensure long-lasting performance and reliability. LED Indicator Lights : LED indicator lights that display the device’s status, such as power, battery life, and cooling mode, improving user experience. Automatic Shut-Off : An automatic shut-off feature that turns off the device when the cooling time elapses or ideal temperature is reached. Bladeless Design : Its invisible blade design makes it ideal to use where there’s kids, pets etc. Bladeless design is mostly seen in high end Cooling systems. Advanced Air Filtration System : ColdEeze Cooling ACE features in-built air filters to remove dirts and dust, making it healthier to breathe. How It Is Used ColdEeze Cooling ACE is extremely easy to use. Simply charge it, place it vertically or horizontally or hang on a wall with included accessories. Turn it on, select your preferred cooling mode. Relax and enjoy the chill air it blows out. also read the instructions manual shipped with your order to get more insight on how to maximise it. Benefits Of Using Cold Eeze Cooling ACE Promotes Health and Wellbeing : It contributes to overall health and wellbeing by preventing heat-related illnesses and promoting a comfortable body temperature on the hottest summer day. Boosts Productivity and Focus : By maintaining a comfortable body temperature, Coldeez Cooling ACE enhances productivity, concentration, and overall performance. Rapid Cooling System: Coldeez Cooling ACE cools in seconds unlike conventional portable air conditioners. Safe: Designed with the current safety features, Coldeez Cooling ACE is extremely safe to use. It doesn’t emit any substance and it features bladeless design. Powerful: Though designed for your personal space, Coldeez Cooling ACE can even cool larger spaces like family lounge, larger walk-way etc. Energy Efficiency: Designed with quality materials, it is very efficient, saving more money on cooling bills without sacrificing comfort. Portable Cooling Experience: Unlike permanently installed cooling systems, Coldeez Cooling ACE offers portable cooling, making it possible for individuals to use one unit in many places such as, living rooms, and offices. Full Customization: Designed for users advantages, it offers owners the opportunity to adjust it based on their cooling needs. Extended Runtime: Powered by an advanced lithium-ion battery, it boosts an incredible runtime, capable of lasting more than 8 hours on a single charge. Space-Saving Size: Featuring a compact size, this portable device is built for tight spaces like nightstands and office desks. Limitations (Coldeez Cooling ACE Reviews) While it is Seen as a beast, it has its own obvious limitations which everyone looking to buy it must know. Here are some of its worrying downsides based on my experience with it: Limited Area Coverage : it is designed for personal cooling and may not be effective for larger areas or multiple individuals. Environmental Limitations : Coldeez Cooling ACE may not be suitable for extreme environments, such as deserts or tropical regions. Noise Level : It produces a slight humming noise during operation in some cooling modes. Price Limitations: Coldeez Cooling ACE might appear expensive for some individuals and manufacturers are not looking to reduce the price again. Is Coldeez Cooling ACE Any Good? Coldeez Cooling ACE is an ultra-fast personal cooler that can cool down the air by up to 20°F in just 30 seconds – faster and more efficient than traditional air conditioners. Also, by focusing on targeted action instead of cooling the whole room, it saves energy and reduces monthly bills greatly. It combines functionality, portability, and efficiency with advanced Cooling technology and impressive battery life making it an ideal addition to your room and office. Prices And Where To Buy? Cold Eeze Cooling ACE can be gotten from the official website at the following prices: One unit cost AU$89.99 Two units cost AU$179.98 Three units cost AU$209.97 Four units cost AU$259.97 This is the current pricing and didn’t cover any shipping though the manufacturer offers free shipping in some orders. Cold Eeze Cooling ACE Reviews From Users Our new office doesn’t have AC so I bought this device. It’s a lifesaver in the summer! It has 3 settings which you control by using the button. Low, medium and high. The price can’t be beaten. It’s incredibly energy-efficient, and it’s just really COOL.” – S. Baker Coldeez Cooling Ace is great for hot days at work. And it is fairly quiet. We have three, one for the kitchen, one for the bathroom, and one to carry with us. They cool the rooms perfectly! We love them.” – A. Horns Green Atlanta, GA Strong, easy to use, and definitely lowers the temperature in the room. It has a white-noise kind of sound even at the highest settings so it’s more soothing than anything else. No annoying noises. The best mini cooler I’ve tried. I highly recommend it! Murphy Boston, MA I tend to run hot and my coworkers that share an office with me are always cold, so this helps me stay cool at work. It is quiet so noise is not disruptive and because of the design, it doesn’t blow air into my phone so that I sound like I am in a wind tunnel. Sanchez San Francisco, CA I live with my elderly grandma who is “freezing” at anything lower than 78 degrees which leaves me disgustingly hot. So I bought this thing and it works perfectly! A lifesaver! It gets me to a much more comfortable temp during the day. I can take it in different rooms. I love Cooling Ace! Conclusion (Coldeez Cooling ACE Reviews ) Coldeez Cooling ACE is a revolutionary personal cooling solution that provides unmatched comfort and relaxation. Designed for individuals who spend extended periods in front of screens, engage in intense physical activities, or simply want to escape the heat, this cutting-edge device is the ultimate game-changer. It boasts an array of features that prioritize user comfort and convenience. Adjustable cooling settings, a built-in timer, and a rechargeable battery providing hours of continuous use make it an indispensable companion. In terms of Operating it, it is remarkably straightforward. with an intuitive interface that enables users to tailor their cooling experience with ease. Its portability is another significant advantage, allowing users to take it wherever they go. Whether you’re an avid gamer, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone seeking to stay cool and relaxed, Coldeez Cooling ACE is the perfect solution. By combining innovative technology, user-centric design, and unparalleled performance, it redefines personal cooling. While it has some limitations, its benefits and features make it an excellent solution for individuals seeking to stay cool and comfortable all summer day. I strongly recommend it though, always buy what you believe is the best for you . Order ColdEeze Cooling ACE Today From The Official Website!!! Related Items: Cold Eeze , tech Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you Prepared Hero Fire Blanket Reviews (Legit Or Not?) EXPOSED By Consumer Reports Reviewed How to Build an App: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners How to Explore the Best Chevrolet Cars for Families in 2024 Comments

Heron Therapeutics Announces Corporate Headquarters Relocation to Cary, North CarolinaANDOVER, Mass. , Dec. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- TransMedics Group, Inc. ("TransMedics") (Nasdaq: TMDX), a medical technology company that is transforming organ transplant therapy for patients with end-stage lung, heart, and liver failure, today announced that members of the management team will present at the upcoming 43 rd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference. The presentation will take place on Monday, January 13, 2025 , at 2:15 p.m. Pacific Standard Time / 5:15 p.m. Eastern Standard Time . Event: 43 rd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference Date: Monday, January 13, 2025 Time: 2:15 p.m. PST A live and archived webcast of the presentation will be available on the "Investors" section of the TransMedics website at https://investors.transmedics.com/ . The Company's standard investor presentation is also available through this link. About TransMedics Group, Inc. TransMedics is the world's leader in portable extracorporeal warm perfusion and assessment of donor organs for transplantation. Headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts , the company was founded to address the unmet need for more and better organs for transplantation and has developed technologies to preserve organ quality, assess organ viability prior to transplant, and potentially increase the utilization of donor organs for the treatment of end-stage heart, lung, and liver failure. Investor Contact: Brian Johnston Laine Morgan 332-895-3222 Investors@transmedics.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/transmedics-to-participate-in-the-43rd-annual-jp-morgan-healthcare-conference-302338418.html SOURCE TransMedics Group, Inc.5jili 。

Suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO struggles, shouts while entering courthouse ALTOONA, Pa. (AP) — The suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO struggled with deputies and shouted while arriving for a court appearance in Pennsylvania a day after he was arrested at a McDonald’s and charged with murder. Luigi Nicholas Mangione emerged from a patrol car, spun toward reporters and shouted something partly unintelligible while deputies pushed him inside Tuesday. At the brief hearing, the defense lawyer informed the court that Mangione would not waive extradition to New York but instead wants a hearing on the issue. Mangione was denied bail. Brian Thompson, who led the United States’ largest medical insurance company, was killed last Wednesday as he walked alone to a Manhattan hotel for an investor conference. From wealth and success to murder suspect, the life of Luigi Mangione took a hard turn Luigi Nicholas Mangione was apparently living a charmed one: the grandson of a wealthy real estate developer, valedictorian of his elite Baltimore prep school and with degrees from one of the nation’s top private universities. Friends at an exclusive co-living space at the edge of touristy Waikiki in Hawaii where the 26-year-od Mangione once lived widely considered him a “great guy.” Pictures on his social media accounts show a fit, smiling, handsome young man on beaches and at parties. Now, investigators are working to piece together why Mangione diverged from a path of seeming success to make the violent and radical decision to gun down UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in a brazen attack on a Manhattan street. Key details about the man accused of killing of UnitedHealthcare's CEO The 26-year-old man charged in last week’s killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO in New York City has appeared in a Pennsylvania courtroom. Luigi Nicholas Mangione was arrested Monday after a worker at a McDonald's in Altoona, Pennsylvania, notified police that he resembled the suspect in last Wednesday's killing of Brian Thompson. While being led into court to be arraigned Tuesday, Mangione shouted something that was partly unintelligible but referred to an “insult to the intelligence of the American people.” During the hearing in Hollidaysburg, Mangione was denied bail and his attorney said Mangione would not waive extradition. DA suggests unusual idea for halting Trump’s hush money case while upholding his conviction NEW YORK (AP) — Prosecutors are trying to preserve President-elect Donald Trump’s hush money conviction as he returns to office, and they're suggesting various ways forward. One novel notion is based on how some courts handle criminal cases when defendants die. In court papers made public on Tuesday, the Manhattan district attorney’s office proposed an array of options for keeping the historic conviction on the books. The proposals included freezing the case until he’s out of office, or agreeing that any future sentence wouldn’t include jail time. Another idea: closing the case with a notation that acknowledges his conviction but says that he was never sentenced and that his appeal wasn’t resolved because of presidential immunity. There's no immediate response from Trump's lawyers. Middle East latest: Israel bombs hundreds of sites across Syria as army pushes into border zone Israel says it bombed more than 350 military sites in Syria during the previous 48 hours, targeting “most of the strategic weapons stockpiles” in the country. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the wave of strikes was necessary to keep the weapons from being used against Israel following the Syrian government’s stunning collapse. Israel also acknowledged its troops were pushing into a border buffer zone inside Syria, which was established after the 1973 Mideast war. However, Israel denied its forces were advancing Tuesday toward the Syrian capital of Damascus. Life in the capital was slowly returning to normal. People celebrated for a third day in a main square, and shops and banks reopened. Donald Trump is returning to the world stage. So is his trolling NEW YORK (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump’s recent dinner with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his visit to Paris for the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral were not just exercises in policy and diplomacy. For Trump, they were also prime trolling opportunities. Throughout his first term in the White House and his recent campaign to return there, the Republican has dished out provocative, antagonizing and mocking statements. Now that’s he’s preparing to return to the Oval Office, Trump is back at it, and his trolling is attracting more attention — and eyerolls. Report on attempts to kill Trump urges Secret Service to limit protection of foreign leaders WASHINGTON (AP) — A congressional task force looking into the assassination attempts against Donald Trump during his presidential campaign is recommending changes to the Secret Service. These include protecting fewer foreign leaders during the height of the election season and considering moving the agency out of the Department of Homeland Security. The 180-page report was released Tuesday. It constitutes one of the most detailed looks so far into the July 13 assassination attempt against Trump during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania and a second one in Florida two months later. South Korea's ex-defense minister is formally arrested over brief imposition of martial law SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea's previous defense minister has been formally arrested over his alleged collusion with President Yoon Suk Yeol and others in imposing martial law last week. Kim Yong Hyun resigned last week and has been detained since Sunday. He is the first person arrested in the case. Prosecutors have up to 20 days to determine whether to indict him. A conviction on the charge of playing a key role in rebellion carries the maximum death sentence. Kim is accused of recommending martial law to Yoon and sending troops to the National Assembly to block lawmakers from voting on it. Homes burn as wind-driven wildfire prompts evacuations in Malibu, California MALIBU, Calif. (AP) — Thousands of Southern California residents are under evacuation orders and warnings as firefighters battle a wind-driven wildfire in Malibu. The flames burned near seaside mansions and Pepperdine University, where students sheltering at the school’s library on Monday night watched as the blaze intensified. Officials on Tuesday said a “minimal number” of homes burned, but the exact amount wasn’t immediately known. More than 8,100 homes and other structures are under threat, including more than 2,000 where residents have been ordered to evacuate. Pepperdine University on Tuesday morning said the worst of the fire has pushed past campus. It was not immediately known how the blaze started. More beans and less red meat: Nutrition experts weigh in on US dietary guidelines Americans should eat more beans, peas and lentils and cut back on red and processed meats and starchy vegetables. That's advice from a panel of nutrition experts charged with counseling the U.S. government about the next edition of the dietary guidelines. The panel did not weigh in on the growing role of ultraprocessed foods that have been linked to health problems or alcohol use. But they did say people should continue to limit added sugars, sodium and saturated fat in pursuit of a healthy diet. Tuesday’s recommendations now go to federal officials, who will draft the final guidance set for release next year.SAN JOSE, Calif. (KGO) -- An online debate between big tech and politics continues into the weekend. At the center of the issue - the H-1B visa program. It's a gateway for skilled workers from around the world who specialize in areas that include mathematics, technology, engineering, and science; 65,000 visas are issued each year with an additional 20,000 given to those who have masters degrees or higher. Ahmed Banafa is an engineering professor at San Jose State. "This thing about having this limit about having 65,000 - I mean we could miss someone," Banafa said. MORE: Mexico tests cellphone app allowing migrants to send alert if they are about to be detained in US Google and Meta were each approved to hire 5,000 H-1B-workers this year. Trump's new AI advisor has advocated for the U.S. to remove country-specific caps on H-1B visas. Tech industry leaders and Trump advisors Vivek Ramaswamy and Elon Musk both made long posts on X on how their businesses rely on H-1B workers. Ramaswamy pointed to the "American culture" that celebrates the prom queen over the math Olympiad. MORE: Proposed CA bill would offer protection to immigrant children in schools, child care facilities MAGA supporter Laura Loomer tweeted the H-1B program takes away jobs from American STEM students. In a comment post Musk said "OF COURSE my companies and I would prefer to hire Americans and we DO, as that is MUCH easier than going through the incredibly painful and slow work visa process. HOWEVER, there is a dire shortage of extremely talented and motivated engineers in America." "Look at Musk himself. He is one of the products of the H-1B visa. I mean, we don't have Elon Musk - you agree or disagree with him we're not going to have Tesla, we're not going to have Space X, Starlink," Musk said. ABC7 News insider Phil Matier weighed in on Musk's support for the visa program. MORE: Attorney General Bonta bolsters California's response to Trump's immigration proposals "He's not only in favor of H-1B visas, he's also in favor of expanding them. To where if someone comes to America and completes a four-year college program they should automatically get a green card. That's bringing a competitive workforce into America that will be competing with native-born Americans for jobs," Matier said. On Friday, Marjorie Taylor Greene made the case young people are spending all their time trying to be "the next YouTuber, content creator or social media influencer instead of pursuing a useful skill set, trade -education." So, what will happen to H-1B visas during Trump's second term? That's unclear. Trump restricted the program in 2020 during his first administration.

Instagram unveils Trial Reels to share content with non-followers

World-renowned health innovator will lead global collaboration and health equity work FLINT, Mich. , Dec. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Insight Health System (Insight), a physician-led organization focused on excellence in health care and community well-being, has named Dr. Maliha Hashmi , a pioneer in the fields of AI-driven prevision care, health equity and wellness advocacy, as the organization's first Global Ambassador. "Dr. Hashmi's unparalleled reputation as a health leader and innovator around the world, combined with her dedication to underserved populations and her commitment to using technology for good, aligns perfectly with Insight's mission focused on providing care that is second to none through love and compassion," said Dr. Jawad Shah , founder and chief executive officer of Insight. "Her leadership will be invaluable in helping Insight shape the future of health care." As Global Ambassador, Dr. Hashmi will be intimately involved in a range of large-scale initiatives aimed at population health, health equity, value-based care and preventative care. She will play a critical role in ensuring that Insight hospitals remain leaders in global health care innovation and advancing patient-centered care while fostering sustainable growth and economic development within the communities they serve. Her strategic vision will ensure that Insight continues to deliver health equity and forward-thinking care for generations to come. Throughout her career, Dr. Hashmi has championed the humanization of technology, ensuring advancements in health care strengthen human connection, compassion and accessibility. Her innovative approach integrates smart systems designed to enhance efficiency, elevate patient care and improve health outcomes – all under the guiding principle of "health care for everyone, everywhere." Dr. Hashmi has earned numerous accolades, including recently being ranked first among the Top 10 Female Innovators and Leaders Globally by Entrepreneur Mirror, and one of the Top 50 Most Influential Muslims in America by EqualityX. She holds advanced degrees from Harvard and MIT and has served as a World Economic Forum Global Future Expert and V20 Delegate for G20. "I am deeply honored to take on this role as Global Ambassador for Insight," said Dr. Hashmi. "My goal is to champion health care for everyone, everywhere, supporting Insight's mission to refine processes, increase efficiency and deliver patient care second to none to communities across the globe. I am excited to drive innovation, compassion and excellence in patient care, making health care accessible and dignified for all." Insight, led by Dr. Jawad Shah , is committed to serving underserved communities through a multidisciplinary approach that balances cutting-edge medical technologies with compassionate patient care. Dr. Hashmi's appointment as Global Ambassador further solidifies Insight's mission to expand the boundaries of health care innovation and equitable service delivery. Follow along with the latest from Insight Health System on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , TikTok and YouTube . Follow updates on Dr. Maliha Hashmi on the following platforms: LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/dr-maliha-hashmi Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malihahashmiofficial/ About Insight Health System Insight Health System is a physician-led organization focused on pioneering excellence in health care and community well-being. Our expertise is in transforming distressed hospitals into stable, patient-centric care that is second-to-none. With a track record for innovation in health care, research and development, Insight Health System provides the communities we serve with world-class health care services at the forefront of medical technology. Our network currently includes a portfolio of entities encompassing six acute care hospitals (three of which are nonprofit), six surgery centers, 28 clinics, 580 physicians, 10 unions and 4,200 employees. Collectively, Insight Health System hospitals provide nearly 100,000 patient days annually. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/insight-health-system-appoints-dr-maliha-hashmi-as-global-ambassador-302332878.html SOURCE Insight Health SystemWorld-renowned health innovator will lead global collaboration and health equity work FLINT, Mich. , Dec. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Insight Health System (Insight), a physician-led organization focused on excellence in health care and community well-being, has named Dr. Maliha Hashmi , a pioneer in the fields of AI-driven prevision care, health equity and wellness advocacy, as the organization's first Global Ambassador. "Dr. Hashmi's unparalleled reputation as a health leader and innovator around the world, combined with her dedication to underserved populations and her commitment to using technology for good, aligns perfectly with Insight's mission focused on providing care that is second to none through love and compassion," said Dr. Jawad Shah , founder and chief executive officer of Insight. "Her leadership will be invaluable in helping Insight shape the future of health care." As Global Ambassador, Dr. Hashmi will be intimately involved in a range of large-scale initiatives aimed at population health, health equity, value-based care and preventative care. She will play a critical role in ensuring that Insight hospitals remain leaders in global health care innovation and advancing patient-centered care while fostering sustainable growth and economic development within the communities they serve. Her strategic vision will ensure that Insight continues to deliver health equity and forward-thinking care for generations to come. Throughout her career, Dr. Hashmi has championed the humanization of technology, ensuring advancements in health care strengthen human connection, compassion and accessibility. Her innovative approach integrates smart systems designed to enhance efficiency, elevate patient care and improve health outcomes – all under the guiding principle of "health care for everyone, everywhere." Dr. Hashmi has earned numerous accolades, including recently being ranked first among the Top 10 Female Innovators and Leaders Globally by Entrepreneur Mirror, and one of the Top 50 Most Influential Muslims in America by EqualityX. She holds advanced degrees from Harvard and MIT and has served as a World Economic Forum Global Future Expert and V20 Delegate for G20. "I am deeply honored to take on this role as Global Ambassador for Insight," said Dr. Hashmi. "My goal is to champion health care for everyone, everywhere, supporting Insight's mission to refine processes, increase efficiency and deliver patient care second to none to communities across the globe. I am excited to drive innovation, compassion and excellence in patient care, making health care accessible and dignified for all." Insight, led by Dr. Jawad Shah , is committed to serving underserved communities through a multidisciplinary approach that balances cutting-edge medical technologies with compassionate patient care. Dr. Hashmi's appointment as Global Ambassador further solidifies Insight's mission to expand the boundaries of health care innovation and equitable service delivery. Follow along with the latest from Insight Health System on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , TikTok and YouTube . Follow updates on Dr. Maliha Hashmi on the following platforms: LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/dr-maliha-hashmi Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malihahashmiofficial/ About Insight Health System Insight Health System is a physician-led organization focused on pioneering excellence in health care and community well-being. Our expertise is in transforming distressed hospitals into stable, patient-centric care that is second-to-none. With a track record for innovation in health care, research and development, Insight Health System provides the communities we serve with world-class health care services at the forefront of medical technology. Our network currently includes a portfolio of entities encompassing six acute care hospitals (three of which are nonprofit), six surgery centers, 28 clinics, 580 physicians, 10 unions and 4,200 employees. Collectively, Insight Health System hospitals provide nearly 100,000 patient days annually. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/insight-health-system-appoints-dr-maliha-hashmi-as-global-ambassador-302332878.html SOURCE Insight Health System

DALLAS & MELBOURNE, Australia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 16, 2024-- In a groundbreaking step to protect amphibians from one of the most devastating wildlife diseases in history, The Colossal Foundation , the 501(c)(3) arm of Colossal BioSciences , has announced its initial $1 million donation of its $3 million commitment to the Pask & Frankenberg Lab at the University of Melbourne , Australia’s #1 University, to advance research and conservation efforts against chytridiomycosis, the fungal disease responsible for the extinction of at least 90 amphibian species worldwide and significant declines in over 500 other species. That is one out of every 16 species of amphibian known to the scientific community. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241216229333/en/ The Colossal Foundation Makes First Donation of US $1M as Part of $3M Commitment to Combat Chytrid Fungus (Photo Credit: Colossal Biosciences) Since first appearing in the late 1970s, chytrid fungus has spread to over 60 countries, but Australia, Central America, and South America are particularly hard hit. The fungus has caused more species extinctions than any other known pathogen and continues to wreak havoc. And it is persistent. The fungus spreads by touch or by water, with zoospores even capable of swimming a short distance. In the right conditions, chytrid can live outside of its host for weeks, months or potentially years at a time. “Helping to stop the spread of chytrid is a necessity to ensure healthy ecosystems globally,” shared Matt James, Director of The Colossal Foundation. “This isn’t optional. We have to give frogs a fighting chance and ensure they remain a vital part of our planet’s biodiversity for generations to come. This imperative is why we invested in the work that Dr. Frankenberg and Dr. Pask are committed to.” This contribution will fund research into novel genetic strategies that could confer immunity from chytrid infection in numerous threatened species. Led by Stephen Frankenberg, the research will investigate the use of candidate factors that could be exploited to engineer immunity to frogs, complementing their own immune system and providing a first-line of defense against the pathogen. They will use the cane toad, an invasive pest species in Australia, as a model for developing the technology before applying it to threatened species such as the great spotted tree frog, green and golden bell frog, and corroboree frog. “This funding will allow us to finally test a novel approach that we have recently been developing,” said Frankenberg. “It will exploit new immunology approaches and information from sequencing strategies that have only recently been accessible.” “We are deeply grateful for this extraordinary gift,” said Pask . “ If we are successful, it will be a game-changer for amphibian conservation. Amphibians play a critical role in ecosystems as pest controllers, bioindicators of environmental health, and essential components of food chains. Yet, they are among the most threatened groups of animals, with chytrid fungus being a primary driver of declines. If left unchecked, wide scale amphibian loss will also have negative impacts on humans. Amphibians play a key role in reducing human disease vectors, such as mosquitos carrying malaria, and provide sources of novel medicinal compounds. “If all these reasons aren’t enough,” said Frankenberg, “amphibians are also simply fascinating and cute.” The $3M donation will be distributed in three $1M allocations over the next three years supporting the work of Frankeberg, Pask and other PhDs in their labs as the project progresses. “We built The Colossal Foundation to be able to take our technology and our relationships and apply them to the most pressing biodiversity challenges of our time, immediately,” said CEO and Co-Founder of Colossal , Ben Lamm. “Working on chytrid with novel gene-editing technologies is exactly the sort of work we want to be supporting.” The chytrid project builds on research developed by Colossal in pursuit of the company’s efforts to de-extinct the woolly mammoth, dodo, and thylacine while building a universally impactful de-extinction toolkit. The toolkit is a combination of software and hardware tools, genomic innovations, scientific processes, and more. The approach being utilized by the chytrid team builds in particular on Colossal’s recent advances in multiplex DNA editing techniques developed by the Thylacine team. The commitment to translate these advances directly to protect and conserve living, threatened species solidifies Colossal’s commitment to conserve, preserve and restore fragile ecosystems. Chytrid is a global problem that requires a global solution. The investment from The Colossal Foundation builds on previous research funded by public and private organizations around the world, including The US National Science Foundation, The David and Lucile Packard Foundation, Revive & Restore, and the Smithsonian Institution and Center for Conservation Genomics, and the Amphibian Survival Alliance. ABOUT THE COLOSSAL FOUNDATION The Colossal Foundation is a 501(c)(3) dedicated to supporting the use of cutting-edge technologies to conservation efforts globally to help prevent extinction of keystone species. The organization deploys de-extinction technologies and support to empower partners in the field to reverse the extinction crisis. www.ColossalFoundation.org WEBSITE & SOCIALS Websites: www.colossal.com Twitter: https://x.com/colossal Instagram: ​​ https://www.instagram.com/itiscolossal/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/itiscolossal/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itiscolossal ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE As a place of discovery and enquiry, the University of Melbourne’s purpose is to benefit society through the transformative impact of education and research. Established in 1853, it is one of Australia’s oldest universities and the first in Victoria. As a leading research-intensive university, our dual purposes of education and research are reflected in the experience we offer our students. Encouraging a spirit of innovation, we support our students and researchers with opportunities to translate their research through an entrepreneurial ecosystem, from start-up incubators to major investment funding opportunities. The University’s commitment to excellence has earned it its place among the world’s best universities, delivering education and research that are global in reach, ambition and impact. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241216229333/en/ CONTACT: COLOSSAL PRESS CONTACTS: R&CPMK/Emily.mailaender@rcpmk.com The 10 Group/colossal@the10group.com Zeno /Colossal@zenogroup.comUNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE PRESS CONTACTS: media-enquiries@unimelb.edu.au | +61 3 8344 5793 KEYWORD: TEXAS AUSTRALIA/OCEANIA AUSTRALIA UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: RESEARCH ENVIRONMENT PHILANTHROPY FUND RAISING UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION OTHER PHILANTHROPY SCIENCE EDUCATION OTHER SCIENCE SOURCE: The Colossal Foundation Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/16/2024 02:00 PM/DISC: 12/16/2024 01:58 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241216229333/en

Bowling Green coach Scot Loeffler is happy for the seniors on his roster who persevered through what he called the program's "dark era." The Falcons' senior class would love nothing more than to go out with a win in the 68 Ventures Bowl against Arkansas State on Thursday in Mobile, Ala. Bowling Green (7-5) last won a bowl game in 2014. The program suffered seven straight losing seasons from 2016-22, exceeding four wins just once before its recent turnaround. "I'm super proud of the guys that have been part of this program for four, five and six years," Loeffler said, per the Toledo Blade. "They were part of the dark era, as I would say, and they really have made this place a competitive, hard-working, do-right program." One subplot is star tight end Harold Fannin Jr.'s pursuit of multiple FBS records. Fannin enters the bowl game with 100 receptions for 1,342 yards and nine touchdowns. If he gains just 11 yards against Arkansas State, Fannin will break Jace Amaro's single-season record for tight ends set in 2013. Fannin is also 12 catches away from setting the single-season receptions record at the position (James Casey, 111, 2008). Fannin was the first tight end in FBS history to be named a conference's player of the year when the Mid-American Conference gave him the honor. "He's phenomenal. Phenomenal athlete, really good guy, too," Falcons linebacker Brock Horne said. "... Obviously, he helped out the team a ton, and just looking forward to him putting the orange and brown on one more time and having a good bowl game." "He needs to go to the National Football League as fast as he can," Loeffler added. Arkansas State (7-5) won four of its final six games in the regular season to join the ranks of the bowl-eligible. The Red Wolves' last winning season was 2019, which was capped off by their most recent bowl win. It's been their best showing under coaching veteran Butch Jones, who's led Cincinnati and Tennessee to bowl victories before. "We have to be better than we were (at Monday's practice) from a fundamental execution standpoint, from a habit standpoint," Jones said. "All that goes into playing winning football. But I like our mindset so far." Arkansas State's Jaylen Raynor threw for 2,562 yards with 14 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Zak Wallace led a multipronged rushing attack with 622 yards and 10 touchdowns. The greater concern is the Red Wolves' defense, which allowed 32.3 points per game and 460.7 yards per game, the latter ranking sixth-to-worst in FBS. "Obviously we've been decimated up front in the defensive line with some season-ending injuries," Jones said. "But right now, we're as healthy as we can possibly be since going through a long season." Bowling Green, conversely, allowed just 20.3 points per game. Falcons quarterback Connor Bazelak passed for 2,654 yards and 15 touchdowns this season. Terion Stewart led the ground game with 890 yards and six scores. --Field Level MediaThe Gophers football program continued to address its needs along the offensive line on Saturday, getting commitments from Washington left tackle Kahlee Tafai and Kentucky left guard Dylan Ray out of the NCAA transfer portal. ADVERTISEMENT The U has four starters leaving after this season, including both tackles — Aireontae Ersery to the NFL Draft and Phillip Daniels in a transfer to Ohio State — and both senior guards Quinn Carroll and Tyler Cooper. The Gophers have added 13 total players through the transfer portal, including right guard Marcellus Marshall (Central Florida). Tafai Tafai, who is listed at 6-foot-5 and 330 pounds, moved into the Huskies’ starting lineup during his freshman season in 2024. He has three years of eligibility remaining. A native of Lawndale, Calif., Tafai played 267 offensive snaps in the Big Ten last season but had a low 38.5 overall grade from Pro Football Focus in his first extensive college experience. He also played a few snaps at right tackle a year ago. ADVERTISEMENT Ray Ray, who is listed at 6-6 and 310, has played more than 1,000 snaps over the last two seasons for Kentucky after beginning his career with two years at West Virginia. He started 10 games for the SEC program in 2023, but only two last year. The Noblesville, Ind., native had a near-average grade of 57.5 from PFF in 2024. He has one year of eligibility remaining for the U next fall. ______________________________________________________ This story was written by one of our partner news agencies. Forum Communications Company uses content from agencies such as Reuters, Kaiser Health News, Tribune News Service and others to provide a wider range of news to our readers. Learn more about the news services FCC uses here .

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Louisville will aim to end a three-game losing streak when it hosts UTEP on Wednesday, but beating the Miners may not be an easy feat. UTEP (6-2) comes to the Derby City winners of three straight, most recently beating Seattle 88-72 on Saturday. The Miners shot 56.1 percent (32 of 57) and used a 24-2 first-half run to essentially put the game away. Coach Joe Golding said that first-half performance may have been UTEP's best in his four years leading the school. "I thought offensively and defensively the first 20 minutes we were really locked in and ready to go. (The game) never got close," he said. "We kept it at 20-plus points for the majority of the game. Our ball movement was terrific." Ahamad Bynum led the Miners with 19 points on 7-of-9 shooting off the bench, while Otis Frazier III added 18 points and five assists. Frazier (13.6 points per game) and Bynum (12.1 ppg) are among four UTEP players averaging in double figures. Bynum leads the country shooting 63.3 percent from beyond the 3-point arc, though he has attempted just 30 threes, making 19. Louisville (5-4) also started hot in its last game but could not sustain its momentum in a 76-65 home loss to then-No. 9 Duke on Sunday. Coach Pat Kelsey's team, which had just seven players healthy, made 10 of its first 14 shots to build a 30-16 lead before the Cardinals' lack of depth caught up to them. Louisville shot just 9-of-37 (24.3 percent) after its hot start and was outscored 43-28 after halftime. Terrence Edwards Jr. paced the Cardinals with 21 points in his first game as a reserve this season. Edwards (11.9 ppg) is one of four Louisville scorers averaging double figures, led by Chucky Hepburn leads the team in scoring (14.3 ppg) and is second in the country with 3.2 steals per game. The Cardinals entered the season with expectations of rotating 10 or more players to utilize Kelsey's up-tempo attack. However, swingman Kasean Pryor (knee) and guard Koren Johnson (shoulder) will both miss the rest of the season, while forward Aboubacar Traore (arm) is out indefinitely. After Sunday's loss, Kelsey did not rule out adding players to the roster during the season. "Everything's on the table," he said. "I don't sleep, figuring out what buttons to push to get this team to be the best that they can be. We'll scour every inch of the Earth to figure out how we can improve our team. And whether that happens or not, I have no idea, but I'm willing to try anything." --Field Level Media

Shi Yuqi: Surprised to Win Best Men's Singles, Hopes to Persist with Various MotivationsNoneGold, with its intrinsic value and timeless appeal, continues to play a vital role in central bank reserves. Its scarcity and durability make it a valuable asset in times of crisis and uncertainty. By increasing its gold reserves, the PBOC is not only diversifying its holdings but also enhancing the overall stability and resilience of China's financial system.

Moreover, the directive highlights the importance of "moderate easing" in managing market dynamics. Rather than resorting to drastic measures that could disrupt market equilibrium, the emphasis on moderation suggests a cautious and measured approach to policy interventions. By carefully calibrating the level of support provided to the markets, policymakers can avoid potential risks of overheating or destabilizing market conditions. This approach aims to strike a balance between stimulating economic activity and preventing speculative bubbles, sustaining a healthy and sustainable market environment.In response to the confusion and backlash, the Education Bureau issued a statement clarifying that there is no official requirement for students to provide details about their ancestral family background on such forms. The Bureau emphasized that this was a misunderstanding on the part of the school registrar, who inadvertently included this field on the form.

HAMILTON, Bermuda--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 26, 2024-- Seadrill Limited ("Seadrill" or the "Company") (NYSE: SDRL) today announced that it has completed the sale of the jack-up rig West Prospero for cash proceeds of $45 million. “With the sale of the West Prospero , we have monetized a non-core asset that has been stacked since 2016 and successfully executed on our strategy to exit the benign jack-up market,” said President and Chief Executive Officer, Simon Johnson. About Seadrill Seadrill is setting the standard in deepwater oil and gas drilling. With its modern fleet, experienced crews, and advanced technologies, Seadrill safely, efficiently, and responsibly unlocks oil and gas resources for national, integrated, and independent oil companies. For further information, visit www.seadrill.com . Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this news release, including, without limitation, those regarding the Company’s plans, strategies, business prospects and rig activity, including with respect to backlog and contract commencement dates and durations, impact on earnings and free cash flow and changes and trends in its business and the markets in which it operates, are forward-looking statements. These statements may include words such as “assumes”, “projects”, “forecasts”, “estimates”, “expects”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “plans”, “intends”, “may”, “might”, “will”, “would”, “can”, “could”, “should” or, in each case, their negative, or other variations or comparable terminology in connection with any discussion of the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events. These statements are based on management’s current plans, expectations, assumptions and beliefs concerning future events impacting the Company and therefore involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: those described under Item 3D “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 27, 2024, offshore drilling market conditions, including supply and demand, day rates, customer drilling programs and effects of new or reactivated rigs on the market, fluctuations in the international price of oil, international financial market conditions, inflation, changes in governmental regulations that affect the Company or the operations of the Company’s fleet, the review of competition authorities, the impact of global economic conditions and global health threats, pandemics and epidemics, political and other uncertainties, including those related to the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, and any related sanctions, fluctuations in interest rates or exchange rates and currency devaluations relating to foreign or U.S. monetary policy, tax matters, changes in tax laws, treaties and regulations, legal and regulatory matters in the jurisdictions in which we operate, customs and environmental matters, the potential impacts on our business resulting from decarbonization and emissions legislation and regulations, the impact on our business from climate-change generally, the occurrence of cybersecurity incidents, attacks or other breaches to our information technology systems, including our rig operating systems, and other important factors described from time to time in the reports filed or furnished by us with the SEC. The foregoing risks and uncertainties are beyond our ability to control, and in many cases, we cannot predict the risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or to persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by reference to these risks and uncertainties. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of the particular statement. We expressly disclaim any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in our expectations or beliefs with regard to the statement or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any forward-looking statement is based, except as required by law. Investors should note that we announce material financial information in SEC filings, press releases and public conference calls. Based on guidance from the SEC, we may use the Investors section of our website ( www.seadrill.com ) to communicate with investors. It is possible that the financial and other information posted there could be deemed to be material information. The information on our website is not part of, and is not incorporated into, this news release. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241227268598/en/ CONTACT: Kevin Smith Vice President – Corporate Finance and Investor Relations ir@seadrill.com KEYWORD: BERMUDA CARIBBEAN INDUSTRY KEYWORD: OIL/GAS ENERGY SOURCE: Seadrill Limited Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/26/2024 04:05 PM/DISC: 12/26/2024 04:06 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241227268598/enThe LSU Tigers will host the Vanderbilt Commodores in an SEC college football matchup at Tiger Stadium this Saturday in Baton Rouge. How to Watch Vanderbilt vs. LSU: The Tigers started the season with big dreams, but a second-half slide has left them clinging to becoming bowl-eligible. At 6-4 overall, LSU will still see postseason action, but their hopes of a College Football Playoff run are long gone. Despite the disappointment, don't count the Tigers out just yet. A strong finish to the season could restore some of the swagger that Tiger fans know and love. With the game being played in the electric atmosphere of Tiger Stadium, LSU will be looking to bounce back and remind everyone why Baton Rouge is one of the toughest places to play in college football. Meanwhile, Vanderbilt has had a season to remember—by their standards, anyway. The Commodores, often seen as the SEC's perennial underdog, have put together a respectable 6-4 record and even cracked the Coaches Poll top 25 at one point. Known as the "upset kings" this fall, Vandy has taken down a few giants along the way and will look to add LSU to their list of victims. With bowl eligibility already secured, the Commodores are playing with house money, making them a dangerous opponent for an LSU team looking to avoid another letdown. WATCH: Vanderbilt vs. LSU live on fuboTV for free on Saturday If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation.

Furthermore, JD Airline's foray into Southeast Asia underscores its ambition to become a key player in the region's aviation landscape. With its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural tapestry, Southeast Asia has long been a popular destination for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. By launching flights to countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, JD Airline is poised to cater to the growing demand for air travel within the region and beyond.

According to official reports, the young woman had gone missing as a child and was believed to have been taken in by the hosts shortly after. However, when questioned about her living conditions and treatment over the years, the hosts vehemently denied any allegations of imprisonment or captivity.The stock market, in particular, has been a standout performer, with major indices such as the Shanghai Composite Index and the Shenzhen Composite Index experiencing unprecedented gains. The tech-heavy ChiNext Index, known for its focus on innovative and high-growth companies, has also surged to new heights, reflecting the robust growth potential of China's technology sector.

Louisville will aim to end a three-game losing streak when it hosts UTEP on Wednesday, but beating the Miners may not be an easy feat. UTEP (6-2) comes to the Derby City winners of three straight, most recently beating Seattle 88-72 on Saturday. The Miners shot 56.1 percent (32 of 57) and used a 24-2 first-half run to essentially put the game away. Coach Joe Golding said that first-half performance may have been UTEP's best in his four years leading the school. "I thought offensively and defensively the first 20 minutes we were really locked in and ready to go. (The game) never got close," he said. "We kept it at 20-plus points for the majority of the game. Our ball movement was terrific." Ahamad Bynum led the Miners with 19 points on 7-of-9 shooting off the bench, while Otis Frazier III added 18 points and five assists. Frazier (13.6 points per game) and Bynum (12.1 ppg) are among four UTEP players averaging in double figures. Bynum leads the country shooting 63.3 percent from beyond the 3-point arc, though he has attempted just 30 threes, making 19. Louisville (5-4) also started hot in its last game but could not sustain its momentum in a 76-65 home loss to then-No. 9 Duke on Sunday. Coach Pat Kelsey's team, which had just seven players healthy, made 10 of its first 14 shots to build a 30-16 lead before the Cardinals' lack of depth caught up to them. Louisville shot just 9-of-37 (24.3 percent) after its hot start and was outscored 43-28 after halftime. Terrence Edwards Jr. paced the Cardinals with 21 points in his first game as a reserve this season. Edwards (11.9 ppg) is one of four Louisville scorers averaging double figures, led by Chucky Hepburn leads the team in scoring (14.3 ppg) and is second in the country with 3.2 steals per game. The Cardinals entered the season with expectations of rotating 10 or more players to utilize Kelsey's up-tempo attack. However, swingman Kasean Pryor (knee) and guard Koren Johnson (shoulder) will both miss the rest of the season, while forward Aboubacar Traore (arm) is out indefinitely. After Sunday's loss, Kelsey did not rule out adding players to the roster during the season. "Everything's on the table," he said. "I don't sleep, figuring out what buttons to push to get this team to be the best that they can be. We'll scour every inch of the Earth to figure out how we can improve our team. And whether that happens or not, I have no idea, but I'm willing to try anything." --Field Level MediaHeaded South for Winter? 5 Tips for Snowbirds About to Take FlightSonic the Hedgehog 3 Movie Scheduled for Mainland China Release on January 10 Next Year

Horse racing tips: Templegate’s NAP has been a revelation in handicaps and devours track and tripWhat could the Trump presidency mean for the Philippines?Despite the challenges of being recognized in public, Zhao Liying maintained her composure and prioritized her son's well-being throughout the encounter. She skillfully navigated the situation and finally managed to find a quiet spot where she could exchange greetings with Lin Gengxin. The two actors, known for their close friendship and professional collaborations, shared a warm moment together, with Zhao Liying's son adding a sprinkle of joy to the reunion.

a network of urgent care centers in New York and New Jersey," according to Politico's reporting. "Dr. Nesheiwat is a fierce advocate and strong communicator for preventive medicine and public health," Trump said on Friday in a statement on his Truth Social platform. "She is committed to ensuring that Americans have access to affordable, quality healthcare, and believes in empowering individuals to take charge of their health to live longer, healthier lives." ALSO READ: The America-attacking Trump is coming for our military — and then he's coming for us The pick did not go over well with Trump's base. @BlueArmy24, who frequently posts in favor of Trump on Truth... David McAfeeShi Yuqi's dedication to the sport of badminton serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and sports enthusiasts around the world. His passion for the game, coupled with his humility and gratitude, reflects the values of sportsmanship and perseverance. Shi's journey to becoming the Best Men's Singles player is a testament to his hard work, talent, and resilience in the face of challenges.

Jones, Mellott help Montana State run over Montana 34-11

Trump's Republican Party is increasingly winning union voters. It's a shift seen in his labor pickWhen it comes to looking better in Hollywood, almost nothing is off limits. Whether that means weight loss drugs like Ozempic taking over or scheduling a visit to the best plastic surgeon in town—there’s nothing celebs won’t do to ensure they stay looking snatched. So it’s in that vein that we thought we’d take a look at a handful of famous folks who’ve undergone some sort of cosmetic procedures whether BBLs, liposuction or something in between. Let’s get into it! 2 / 16 Nene Leakes Nene Leakes Former “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Nene Leakes has gone on record and confirmed she’s received a nose job, breast augmentation, Her surgeries and “new look” were recently the talk of the town thanks to 3 / 16 Vanessa Williams Vanessa Williams Though she admitted to not getting a facelift, fillers or Botox (anymore), actress Vanessa Williams said she does get “micro-current and nano-current technology,” telling back in July 2024: “I want to look like myself. I want people to know this face has lived. That’s kind of where I am at at this point, at 61.” 4 / 16 Cardi B Cardi B Rapper Cardi B first received breast implants at age 19 before later getting breast augmentation surgery and liposuction in 2018 after the birth of her daughter. She also received a rhinoplasty for her nose and butt injections, 5 / 16 Kelly Rowland Kelly Rowland In 2008, Destiny’s Child singer and actress Kelly Rowland opened up about getting breast implants going from an A cup to a B, explaining to at the time: “I was sick of not fitting into my tops. There was this one really hot House of Dereon top — I just wanted to fill that out...It is a decision I made for myself. I like it, and that’s all that counts. For young people: Think about it before you just jump off and do something (you may regret later),” 6 / 16 SZA SZA Singer SZA has been candid about getting her Brazilian Butt Lift, telling : “I’m so mad I did that shit. I gained all this weight from being immobile while recovering and trying to preserve the fat. It was just so stupid. But who gives a f**k? You got a BBL, you realize you didn’t need the shit.” 7 / 16 Jasmine Guy Jasmine Guy In on Dec. 9, “A Different World” star Jasmine Guy posted a before-and-after video of a PDO Filler Thread a.k.a. facelift she received at a medical aesthetic boutique in Atlanta. “From our initial consultation to the follow-up visits, l’ve felt truly supported and confident in your expertise. Your professionalism, attentiveness, and thoughtful approach have made a significant difference in my treatments,” Guy captioned in her post. “I can’t thank you enough for taking the time to answer my questions and explain my options. I deeply appreciate your dedication to my health and well-being 8 / 16 Janet Jackson Janet Jackson It’s no secret that Janet Jackson underwent surgery to change her nose at age 16. And while it’s pretty apparent that the “Control” singer’s face has certainly gotten more youthful with age, she insists that she hasn’t had any work done but she does believe in a bit. 9 / 16 Lil Kim Lil Kim Rapper Lil Kim’s first foray into plastic surgery came in 2004 after suffering domestic abuse from her then boyfriend. In the years after, she’d reportedly go on to receive more nose job work, cheek implants, lip injections, breast implants, though she’s been quiet about it and has only said she’s gotten 10 / 16 Kanye West Kanye West Back in 2018, rapper Kanye West shocked everyone when he revealed to that he got to silence chatter about his weight. “I had plastic surgery because I was trying to look good for y’all. I got liposuction because I didn’t want y’all to call me fat, like y’all called Rob [Kardashian] at the wedding, and made him fly home before me and Kim got married. I didn’t want y’all to call me fat, so I got liposuction.” 11 / 16 Wendy Williams Wendy Williams Though former daytime talk show host Wendy Williams never got a face lift, she’s been open about receiving a breast implants, tummy tuck, and . 12 / 16 Michael Jackson Michael Jackson Perhaps one of the most talked about celebrities when it comes to plastic surgery is the late King of Pop Michael Jackson who first underwent surgery to change his nose back in 1979. While he only ever confirmed just “one or two” more nose jobs, speculation that Jackson kept working on his nose continued in the years after. The “Beat It” singer also underwent chin implant surgery so that he could have a dimple in it but denied all other rumors about cosmetic procedures done to his eyes, lips, and cheekbones. 13 / 16 Toni Braxton Toni Braxton In singer Toni Braxton revealed she’d undergone surgery on her nose, breast implants (which she later removed), and reconstructive surgery. 14 / 16 Patti LaBelle Patti LaBelle In 2021, legendary singer Patti LaBelle admitted to getting her nose done years ago after seeing friend and fellow singer Stephanie Mills with her nose job. “If I hadn’t seen her, I wouldn’t have done it. But seeing something in front of your face makes you say, ‘Well, I can look different also’ It’s not that she looked better with her nose done, nor that I looked better. It just made us feel better about ourselves. So that was something that happened in my younger years that I’m happy I did,” LaBelle told at the time. 15 / 16 Sanda “Pepa” Denton Sanda “Pepa” Denton In 2007, Sandra “Pepa” Denton underwent rhinoplasty just in time for her VH1 reality seroes, ““The Salt-N-Pepa Show.” Per reports, she shaved down the tip of her nose and received more of a bridge. Years later, she’d also go on to get 16 / 16

Football star latest victim of 'sophisticated' thefts targeting athletesThe modus operandi of the perpetrator involved acquiring used or stolen cellphones through various means and then extracting valuable personal information stored in the devices. Subsequently, he would compile this data into customized lucky bags containing a mix of products tailored to the preferences and interests of potential buyers. These lucky bags were then marketed and sold through online platforms, attracting a significant customer base due to their personalized nature.

Global Youth Philanthropy Youth Representatives Showcase Climate Action at COP29 11-22-2024 09:44 PM CET | Science & Education Press release from: Getnews / PR Agency: Global Social The 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) recently convened in Baku, Azerbaijan. On November 19, from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM local time, the China Pavilion in the Blue Zone hosted a side event titled "Actively Guard against Climate Risks and Build Low-carbon and Resilient Cities." Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/c8b0222587bfd4fe71f94f6c2a6d62da.jpg This event brought together representatives from government departments, international organizations, research institutions, and cities from both China and abroad to discuss the impacts of global climate change and strategies for risk prevention. Participants shared China's experiences in climate change policies and actions, while exchanging practical outcomes in the development of low-carbon resilient cities worldwide. The attendees unanimously agreed that addressing climate change is a global challenge, and only through collaborative innovation can meaningful progress be achieved. At the side event, Liu Hailiang, a board member of Global Youth Philanthropy, was invited to deliver a keynote speech titled "The Role of Youth in Addressing Global Climate Change and Environmental Crises." He emphasized that youth represent a vital force in tackling global climate change, contributing energy and vitality to the green transition through innovative practices and cross-cultural collaboration. Global Youth Philanthropy actively responds to the UN's "Youth 2030 Strategy" and Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to unite young people worldwide, foster innovation in global governance practices, and cultivate future leaders with social responsibility and global competence. Additionally, the organization seeks to promote cross-cultural exchanges among international youth, contributing to a more beautiful and shared future for the world. Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/0504239355a8620488dbe9a8c3b69ad5.jpg Leah Wu, a youth representative from Global Youth Philanthropy and the founder and president of Fission for the Future , delivered a speech titled "Recent Technological Developments in Nuclear Energy and Its Promising Future in Climate Change." Leah addressed the urgent need for solutions to meet growing global energy demands while minimizing emissions. She explained how advancements such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) could make nuclear energy cleaner, safer, and more efficient. Meanwhile, Leah Wu launched an initiative titled "Embrace Diversity of Clean Energy" at the event, calling on global youth to work together in advancing diverse clean energy development and building a sustainable future. A signature collection campaign was held on-site, receiving widespread support. Leah Wu emphasized that innovations in technology and policy can enable tailored energy solutions based on the needs of different regions, fostering a cleaner and more sustainable future together. Alice Hu, founder of Human Rights Youth Advocacy and one of the exhibition's lead curators, shared her plastic pollution advocacy through a video presentation. Using vivid data and examples, she urged young people to recognize the severity of global plastic pollution and take action to reduce plastic usage. Her presentation highlighted the responsibility and leadership of youth in addressing environmental challenges. Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/359f63aaf4a0e053900f912a3daca0a2.jpg Youth representatives from Global Youth Philanthropy - Andy Zhou, Alice Hu, and Ariel Hu - curated an exhibition titled "Climate Adaptation Practices: Emergency Response, Capacity Building, and Youth Engagement." The exhibition showcased innovative projects led by youth from around the world, demonstrating their creativity and determination in tackling climate change. Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/4b9bbce661143b93b4ecc9b703e89dbe.jpg Among the featured projects, the Food Bridge App aims to reduce food waste and has already helped over 300 families. The Sustainable Style Project advocates for reducing the environmental impact of fast fashion by encouraging more sustainable consumption habits. Art for Earth , a global public art initiative, raises awareness about climate issues through exhibitions in cities such as Beijing and Vancouver. Additionally, A Bang for Action , a project featuring Eco-Friendly Fireworks Innovations , highlighted its smokeless fireworks as a creative solution to reducing air pollution while maintaining cultural traditions. Adding to the event's depth, Celine Liu, a youth journalist from Youth Voice, reported on the conference from a young person's perspective. Her coverage offered thoughtful observations and heartfelt appeals, urging more youth to join the global climate movement. As China's Special Envoy for Climate Change, Liu Zhenmin, noted during the conference: "An increasing number of young people are joining the noble cause of global climate governance. They are our hope for the future. I encourage young people to continue practicing low-carbon lifestyles, demonstrating leadership, and inspiring their peers to take part in this great endeavor." Image: https://www.getnews.info/uploads/1642fa6c159fc083ce15a348797b7a30.jpg This year's COP29 not only showcased the innovative practices and sense of mission displayed by youth in addressing climate change but also emphasized their vast potential to shape global climate governance. Looking ahead, Global Youth Philanthropy will continue to support and empower young people through collaboration and innovation, injecting hope and vitality into global climate action. Media Contact Company Name: Global Youth Philanthropy Contact Person: Liping Sun Email: Send Email [ http://www.universalpressrelease.com/?pr=global-youth-philanthropy-youth-representatives-showcase-climate-action-at-cop29 ] Country: China Website: http://www.youth-global.org/ This release was published on openPR.

Thousands of defiant pro-EU protesters in Georgia staged a fresh rally Friday after the prime minister claimed victory in a "battle" against the opposition, amid a deepening post-electoral crisis. Tbilisi has been engulfed in turmoil since the governing Georgian Dream party declared that it had won a disputed October 26 election. The party's critics have accused it of creeping authoritarianism and of steering the country back towards Russia. Tens of thousands have taken to the streets since the election to protest against alleged electoral fraud. Fresh rallies took place across the country after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced last week that Georgia would not hold talks on European Union membership until 2028. Police have fired tear gas and water cannon against pro-EU protests in Tbilisi and hundreds of arrests have been made, triggering outrage at home and mounting international condemnation. France, Germany and Poland condemned what they called the government's "disproportionate" use of force against protesters and opposition leaders in a joint statement by their foreign ministers Friday. Several thousand people blocked the street outside parliament for a ninth consecutive night Friday, some blowing whistles and others setting off firecrackers. The crowd was smaller than on previous nights and the mood quieter, but protesters rejected claims the movement was dying out. "We are fighting for our freedom," said Nana, 18, a medical student, wrapped in an EU flag, accompanied by a friend in a matching Georgian flag. "We are not going to give up." Another protester, 35-year-old academic Alexander Kavtaradze, said: "It's a battle of nerves right now. The illegitimate government is hoping we'll get tired, that fewer people will come out each day. "We will continue our fight until the end." Separate protests were held outside Georgia's Public Broadcaster -- accused of serving as a government propaganda tool -- the education ministry, and the country's tourism administration offices. Shalva Alaverdashvili, founder of the Georgian hotels' federation, told AFP that the "unexpected and unacceptable" suspension of EU accession talks has severely hit the country's tourism industry, which accounts for seven percent of the country's GDP. Thousands have also staged anti-government rallies in the second city of Batumi on the Black Sea coast. On Friday evening, a court in Tbilisi put a 19-year-old youth activist in pre-trial detention. Zviad Tsetskhladze had been arrested during the protests on charges of "organising, leading, and participating in group violence". Tsetskhladze told the judge: "Democracy in Georgia is no more. The rule of law has been crushed. "Our actions are a form of resistance, aimed at preserving the rule of law, defending democracy, and protecting the rights of every individual." Earlier Friday Prime Minister Kobakhidze praised his security forces for "successfully neutralising the protesters' capacity for violence". "We have won an important battle against liberal fascism in our country," he told a news conference, using language reminiscent of how the Kremlin in Russia targets its political opponents. "But the fight is not over. Liberal fascism in Georgia must be defeated entirely, and work towards this goal will continue," Kobakhidze said. He repeated an earlier threat to "complete the process of neutralising the radical opposition". With both sides ruling out a compromise, there appeared to be no clear route out of the crisis. The leader of the opposition Lelo party, Mamuka Khazaradze, said the ruling party "no longer has the strength or resources to stand against the people." The government "has resorted to arresting young activists and political opponents out of fear of relentless public protests and growing civil disobedience by public servants," he told AFP. The interior ministry said police had detained three more individuals Friday for "participating in group violence", punishable by up to nine years' jail. Masked officers have raided several opposition party offices and arrested opposition leaders earlier this week, while around 300 people have been detained at rallies. On Friday Nika Gvaramia, leader of the opposition Akhali party, was sentenced to 12 days in prison. Alexandre Elisashvili, leader of the Strong Georgia opposition group, was remanded in custody for two months of pretrial detention. More trouble is expected after December 14, when Georgian Dream lawmakers elect a loyalist to succeed pro-Western President Salome Zurabishvili. She has vowed not to step down until the parliamentary polls are re-run. Local media has also reported protests across the country, including in the cities of Batumi, Kutaisi, Zugdidi, Rustavi and Telavi. Critics of Georgian Dream are enraged by what they call its betrayal of Tbilisi's bid for EU membership, enshrined in the constitution and supported by around 80 percent of the population. Several ambassadors, a deputy foreign minister, and other officials have resigned over the suspension of EU talks. Georgian Dream, in power for more than a decade, has advanced controversial legislation in recent years, targeting civil society and independent media and curbing LGBTQ rights. Brussels warned such policies were incompatible with EU membership, while domestic critics accuse the government of copying Russia's playbook. Georgia's own rights ombudsman Levan Ioseliani has accused the police of "torture" against those arrested. ub-im/jjThe year 2025 promises to be a pivotal moment for humanoid robots, with remarkable advancements and fierce competition shaping the future of robotics. Boston Dynamics recently introduced their cutting-edge all-electric Atlas robot to the world, bringing new life to its series and marking the end of its well-known hydraulic predecessor, the HD Atlas. This innovative design enables the Atlas to perform movements with unprecedented agility, impressing enthusiasts and experts alike. Atlas: The new Atlas robot boasts a sophisticated “head” equipped with cameras, allowing it to undertake tasks by seeing and reacting to its environment. What separates Atlas from the pack is its ability to maneuver in extraordinary ways, seemingly achieving feats beyond human capability. Unitree’s Competitor: Meanwhile, the Unitree G1 strides into the spotlight with its compact and versatile design. Thanks to its ability to fold down to under three feet, the G1 is convenient for transportation and storage, making it an attractive option for various applications. Several companies, including Figure, Agility Robotics, and 1X, are establishing strategic partnerships with tech giants Nvidia and OpenAI to enhance their robots with advanced software and hardware. These collaborations aim to accelerate the development of robots that can effectively execute complex tasks. On a different path, Tesla is leveraging its expertise from automotive technology by repurposing its data and software into its Optimus robot project. This unique approach could redefine how robots integrate into everyday life. With industry leaders pushing the boundaries and creating alliances, 2025 is set to deliver impressive new robotic capabilities, bringing the technological future into the present. Revolutionizing Robotics: The Unveiled Secrets of 2025 The year 2025 heralds a transformative era in the realm of humanoid robots, characterized by unparalleled innovations and strategic alliances that promise to redefine the boundaries of technology. With competitors like Boston Dynamics, Unitree, and key industry players pushing the envelope, the landscape of robotics is on the cusp of a significant evolution. The latest iteration of Boston Dynamics’ Atlas is a paradigm of agility and adaptability. This all-electric model, equipped with a sophisticated visual interface—resembling a “head” packed with cameras—enables Atlas to navigate and interact with its surroundings with a level of dexterity previously unseen. Such advancements are setting new benchmarks in robotics, offering robots capabilities that simulate, and sometimes surpass, human-like motion. In contrast, the Unitree G1 robot brings versatility to the forefront with its innovative design, allowing it to fold into a compact structure of under three feet. This feature not only simplifies transportation and storage but also expands potential use cases across various sectors, including warehousing, healthcare, and personal assistance. The robotics sector is also witnessing savvy alliances, with companies like Nvidia and OpenAI playing pivotal roles. By partnering with firms such as Figure, Agility Robotics, and 1X, these tech giants are supercharging the software and hardware that propel robotic functions to greater heights. Such collaborations are poised to accelerate the creation of robots that can tackle increasingly complex and nuanced tasks, pushing the envelope on what’s possible. Tesla has adopted a novel path by infusing its automotive expertise into the development of the Optimus robot. This approach leverages Tesla’s vast data resources and sophisticated software, potentially redefining how humanoid robots are integrated into everyday life scenarios. This strategy not only underscores Tesla’s innovative vision but also highlights the growing cross-industry pollination of technologies. As these technological titans continue to advance their robotic creations, several emerging trends are worth noting. The focus is increasingly on sustainability, efficiency, and real-world applications, making these robots not just a marvel of engineering but a practical part of daily life in sectors like healthcare, logistics, and personal security. 2025 is set to turn imagination into reality by evolving robots from mere mechanized novelties to indispensable tools capable of enhancing the human experience. With breakthroughs on the horizon and strategic alliances in place, the future of robotics is not just promising; it’s inevitable.Luigi Mangione pleads not guilty to murder and weapons charges in UnitedHealthcare CEO's death646 lodi 。

( ) is up about 24% in the past six months. Investors who missed the big rally are wondering if ENB stock is still and good to buy for a self-directed Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) or Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) focused on and total returns. Enbridge share price Enbridge trades near $59 at the time of writing. The stock is down from the multi-year high around $62 it reached in recent weeks and now trades pretty much where it did in the summer of 2022 before the Bank of Canada and the U.S. Federal Reserve started to aggressively raise interest rates to get inflation under control. Rising interest rates in 2022 and 2023 caused concern that Enbridge might have to trim its generous dividend to free up cash to cover higher debt expenses. The pipeline giant uses debt to fund its growth programs, including acquisitions and capital projects. A quick look at the stock chart shows that investors started to buy ENB stock again late last year when the central banks announced they were done raising interest rates. The boost to the share price in the past six months occurred as the Bank of Canada and the U.S. Federal Reserve began to reduce interest rates. 2025 outlook Additional rate cuts are expected in the two countries next year. However, inflation has ticked up in the United States in the past couple of months, and the American jobs market remains in good shape. The central bank recently indicated it only plans to make two small rate cuts in 2025. If Donald Trump implements widespread tariffs on imports, inflation could sure as businesses pass the costs on to consumers. In that scenario, the U.S. Fed might have to put rate cuts on hold or even move rates higher. This would likely put new pressure on pipeline and utility stocks. That being said, Enbridge should deliver solid operating results in the coming year. The company wrapped up its US$14 billion takeover of three American natural gas utilities in 2024. Revenue and cash flow from the businesses will help drive better full-year results in 2025. Enbridge is also working on a $27 billion capital program. As the new assets are completed and go into service, the revenue and cash flow gains should support steady dividend growth. Dividends Enbridge recently raised the dividend, marking the 30th consecutive year of dividend growth. Investors should see ongoing distribution hikes in line with anticipated growth in distributable cash flow of about 3% per year over the medium term. At the current share price, ENB stock provides a dividend yield of 6.4%. The bottom line on ENB stock Enbridge is a good example of a top TSX dividend stock with a high yield and a distribution that should continue to grow. Near-term volatility is likely until there is clarity on U.S. tariffs next year, but buy-and-hold investors focused on passive income should put ENB stock on their radar. Additional weakness would be an opportunity to add to the position.

Trump’s FCC pick comes in swinging at Big TechTikToker teaching science hopes short-form video will become part of curriculum

USC QB Miller Moss enters transfer portal after losing starting job to Jayden Maiava

NEW YORK , Nov. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces the filing of a class action lawsuit on behalf of all purchasers of securities of Xerox Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: XRX) between January 25, 2024 and October 28, 2024 . Xerox describes itself as a "company that offers workplace technology that integrates hardware, services, and software for enterprises in the Americas, and internationally." So what: If you purchased Xerox securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. What to do next: To join the Xerox class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=31433 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than January 21, 2025 . A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Why Rosen Law: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. Details of the case: According to the lawsuit, during the Class Period, defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) after a large workforce reduction, Xerox's salesforce was reorganized with new territory assignments and account coverage; (2) as a result, Xerox's salesforce productivity was disrupted; (3) as a result, Xerox had a lower rate of sell-through of older products; (4) the difficulties in flushing out older product would delay the launch of key products; (5) as a result, Xerox was likely to experience lower sales and revenue; and (6) as a result of the foregoing, defendants' positive statements about Xerox's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. To join the Xerox class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=31433 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm , on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/ . Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@rosenlegal.com www.rosenlegal.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/xrx-investors-have-opportunity-to-lead-xerox-holdings-corporation-securities-fraud-lawsuit-302314593.html SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A.NoneEmanuel Wallace, 27, from east London, is better known as Big Manny by his 1.9 million followers on TikTok, where he shares videos explaining various science experiments from his back garden while using Jamaican Patois phrases and London slang. In early December, Mr Wallace won the Education Creator of the Year award at the TikTok Awards ceremony, which he said is a “symbol that anything that you put your mind to you can achieve”. The content creator began making videos during the coronavirus pandemic when schools turned to online learning but has since expanded his teaching from videos to paper after releasing his debut book Science Is Lit in August. He believes his “unconventional” teaching methods help to make his content relatable for younger audiences by using slang deriving from his Jamaican and British heritage. “The language that I use, it’s a combination between Jamaican Patois and London slang because I have Jamaican heritage,” the TikToker, who holds a bachelors and masters degree in biomedical science, told the PA news agency. “That’s why in my videos sometimes I might say things like ‘Wagwan’ or ‘you dun know’. I just want to connect with the young people more, so I speak in the same way that they speak. “The words that I use, the way that I deliver the lesson as well, I would say that my method of teaching is quite unconventional. I speak in a way that is quite conversational.” Examples of his videos include lithium batteries catching fire after being sandwiched inside a raw chicken breast, as well as mixing gold with gallium to create blue gold, earning millions of views. Mr Wallace hopes his content will help make the science industry more diverse, saying “the scientists that I was taught about, none of them look like me”. “Now me being a scientist is showing young people that they can become one as well, regardless of the background that they come from, the upbringing that they’ve had,” he said. “I just want to make it seem more attainable and possible for them because if I can do it, and I come from the same place as you, there’s no reason why you can’t do it as well.” The TikToker has seen a shift in more young people turning to the app as a learning resource and feels short-form videos will soon become a part of the national curriculum in schools. “I’m seeing (young people) using that a lot more – social media as a resource for education – and I feel like in the future, it’s going to become more and more popular as well,” he said. “I get a lot of comments from students saying that my teacher showed my video in the classroom as a resource, so I feel like these short form videos are going to be integrated within the national curriculum at some point in the near future.” He also uses his platform to raise awareness of different social issues, which he said is “extremely important”. One of his videos highlighted an anti-knife campaign backed by actor Idris Elba, which earned more than 39 million views, while his clip about the banning of disposable vapes was viewed more than 4.6 million times. He said there is some pressure being a teacher with a large following online but hopes he can be a role model for young people. “I’m aware that I am in the public eye and there’s a lot of young people watching me,” he said. “Young people can be impressionable, so I make sure that I conduct myself appropriately, so that I can be a role model. “I always have the same message for young people, specifically. I tell them to stay curious. Always ask questions and look a little bit deeper into things.” His plans for 2025 include publishing a second Science Is Lit book and expanding his teaching to television where he soon hopes to create his own science show.

( MENAFN - IANS) Mumbai, Dec 24 (IANS) actress Bhumi Pednekar recently shared a video showcasing her quest to satisfy a quintessential Delhi craving-chole bhature. Taking to social media, the actress posted a short clip of herself exploring the vibrant streets of the capital city. The video shows Bhumi and her team navigating the bustling streets, embracing the spirit of Delhi's dynamic food culture. In the caption, the 'Bhakshak' actress wrote,“On the streets to find chole bhature #DilliDilli.” In the video, Pednekar can be heard saying,“I can't believe I'm once again on the streets of another city trying to find food. I think I've come to Nirula's after 10 years. I want chole kulche, but I can't believe they're not available!” She then makes a grumpy face and says,“We have no time, we really have to go and get it.” The video ends with Bhumi finally relishing her favourite chole bhature, adding,“I've craved this. Just the best!” Meanwhile, the 'Badhaai Do' actress, an avid social media user, had previously posted stunning photos of herself in sarees for World Saree Day. Alongside the post, Bhumi wrote,“Sorry, I love wearing a saree :) #WorldSareeDay. In a world of fast fashion, the saree remains my constant-a symbol of sustainable luxury that's timeless and versatile. For me, it's more than just an outfit; it's a story of art, culture, and heritage, woven with care and purpose. This #WorldSareeDay, I celebrate the magic of the saree-where tradition meets conscious living.” On the professional front, Bhumi was last seen in the Netflix crime thriller“Bhakshak,” based on the Muzaffarpur shelter case. The show also starred Sanjay Mishra, Aditya Srivastava, and Sai Tamhankar. In "Bhakshak," the actress played Vaishali, an independent journalist who unearths a crime in a shelter home for homeless girls. Directed by Pulkit and bankrolled by Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan's Red Chillies Entertainment, the film premiered on Netflix on February 9. MENAFN23122024000231011071ID1109025603 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.Catslap’s price skyrocketed 36% in the last 24 hours, accompanied by a massive 173% surge in the previous seven days. The token’s price boost came for a variety of reasons, including its extremely popular mini-game, a series of token burns, and a listing announ. However, all of it combined made many wonder whether this might be the next meme coin to list on Binance. Why Is Catslap Surging? Catslap’s price surge resulted in its ascent to $0.01 earlier today, after which the token saw a slight correction to $0.008. However, as of the time of writing, Catslap is on its way back up, with the community pumping its price once more. The project has seen great success with the launch of its slapping game, which initially only recorded each slap for the user’s country on its leaderboard, the Slapometer. The game was fun enough to generate 10 million slaps within only a few days. The project then celebrated the milestone with a 10 million SLAP token burn. However, after it introduced its Slap-To-Earn model, which now rewards users for the slaps, the number of slaps skyrocketed to 150 million slaps as of December 4. The project reached 100 million slaps only two days ago, when it celebrated again with another massive token burn, this time of 100 million SLAP. https://x.com/CatSlapToken/status/1863967986094125215 So far, the project has burned over $600k worth of SLAP, which significantly contributed to its price surge. Not only that, but it recorded several other important milestones, such as $3 million SLAP staked, 11,700 holders, a liquidity pool of $6.9 million, and a brief price of $0.01, as mentioned. But, while many are extremely hyped about SLAP, it is worth noting that the meme coin sector is also abuzz with the upcoming launch of Pepe Unchained (PEPU) . JOIN THE PEPU ICO BEFORE IT ENDS IN NINE DAYS Pepe Unchained To Go Live In Less Than Foue Days Pepe Unchained has been one of the most anticipated cryptos this entire year, and while it has not even come out yet, many believe that this too might be the next meme coin to list on Binance. PEPU is a Pepe-inspired meme coin which, unlike Pepe (PEPE) and its other alternatives, has its own blockchain, and can set up its own rules and technology. This allowed it to be much faster, cheaper, and more scalable than the Ethereum-based Pepe cryptos, which are all too slow and extremely expensive for everyday use. What’s more, PEPU is building an entire native ecosystem, featuring its own DEX, a bridge to Ethereum, a native block explorer, and even the PEPU Foundation, which will offer developer grants to anyone who comes to help its network grow. All of this, combined with the potential to replace PEPE as the third-largest meme coin, caused the PEPU ICO to skyrocket over the last few months, especially in the past few weeks since the devs announced the conclusion of its ICO. The presale sold out, and its token will be publicly tradable in 4 days, on December 10, which is when PEPU will see its first exchange listings. So far, the presale has raised $73 million and is likely to be one of the biggest meme coin ICOs, not only in 2024 but in the sector’s history. While the token has sold out, one of the best entry prices will likely be shortly after its listing. It’s not too late to take a look at this eccentric Pepe competitor. BUY PEPU BEFORE ITS PRICE BLOWS UP Whether PEPU will be the next meme coin to list on Binance or not remains to be seen, but many are certain that its price will skyrocket based on demand and its current low value.

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We need a strategy to deal with a hydra. It’s Sunday, January 14, 2024, more than 50 hours since the annual MIT Mystery Hunt kicked off at noon on Friday, and Setec Astronomy is one of more than 200 teams racing to solve hundreds of puzzles over three days. The 60-some members of Setec, many of whom are joining remotely from as far away as Australia, are making good progress, even though many of us are running on limited sleep and questionable nutritional decisions. Several of the chalkboards in the Building 2 classroom we’ve been assigned for our team headquarters are covered in lists of puzzle solutions or messy diagrams charting out theories about how to crack the various challenges—all of them constructed, as Mystery Hunt tradition dictates, by the most recent winner, in this case The Team Formerly Known as the Team to Be Named Later. The “hydra” we’re dealing with is a metapuzzle: We have to find a way to use the solutions from other puzzles that we’ve already solved to extract one more answer. If we solve this one, we’ll be rewarded with more puzzles. We know we need to diagram the answers for this round of puzzles as a binary tree. In keeping with the hydra metapuzzle’s mythological analogue, every time we solve one puzzle, two more branch off until we have a diagram five levels deep. We’re still missing answers from several unsolved puzzles that would help us figure out how the diagram works and how to extract an answer to the metapuzzle. The diagram we’ve drawn, in green chalk, gets more chaotic with every addition, erasure, and annotation we squeeze onto the overcrowded chalkboard. But we can sense that we’re just one “aha!” away from a solution. MIT’s Mystery Hunt has been challenging puzzle enthusiasts every year since Brad Schaefer ’78, PhD ’83, wrote 12 “subclues” on a single sheet of paper as a challenge for friends during Independent Activities Period (IAP) in 1981. The answers led solvers to an Indian Head penny he had hidden on campus. Today’s Hunts are still built around that basic concept, but what constitutes a challenge has changed over four decades. One of the clues from the original 1981 Hunt is just a missing word in a quote: “He that plays the king shall be _____; his majesty shall have tribute of me.” It’s easy to solve today with Google, but in 1981, even if you knew it was Shakespeare, if you didn’t notice the subtle hint that you should look for a character referring to a play within the play, it might have taken a few hours of skimming the Bard’s collected works to find the answer. We add a few more solutions to the hydra diagram over the next few hours. Eventually someone notices that all the answers in the fifth level of the diagram seem to have an odd prevalence of Ls and Rs. This is the “aha!” moment: They tell us how to navigate the binary tree. From the first node at the top of the tree, we follow the Ls and Rs in the order they appear in each of the 16 solutions on the fifth level. Take the left branch, then right, then left again, landing on a word that starts with H. The second fifth-level answer leads us to a word that starts with E. Repeating the process with all 16 answers spells out an apt way to deal with a hydra: “HEADTOHEADBATTLE.” (Puzzle solutions are traditionally written in all caps with no spaces or punctuation.) Those of us who’ve been tackling the puzzle take a moment to enjoy our victory before splitting up to find new puzzles to work on. Some elements of the Mystery Hunt are hard to describe, the kind of must-be-seen ingenuity that also inspires hacks on the Great Dome and any number of above-and-beyond engineering projects showcased around campus every year. Most of the puzzles are utterly unique, although they do often incorporate logic and word problems as well as more mainstream elements like crosswords, sudoku, and Wordle. But almost anything can be turned into a puzzle. For example, chess puzzles might be combined with the card game Magic: The Gathering. Or solvers could be asked to organize a Git repository with 10,000 out-of-order commits (that is, find the correct sequence of 10,000 changes to a file as it was tracked in a version control system), identify duets from musicals, or draw on their knowledge of pop culture trivia. For most of its history, the Mystery Hunt had little official status on campus. By tradition as much as any organizational effort, teams simply showed up in Lobby 7 on the Friday before the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday for the kickoff. In 2014, the was formed to help provide year-to-year continuity and other support, such as securing rooms for teams to work in and reserving Kresge Auditorium for the opening ceremonies. Puzzle Club also hosts other events, such as mini puzzle hunts and sudoku and logic puzzle competitions—which Becca Chang ’26, the club’s current president, says “has helped a lot with outreach to new students or anyone who might be interested in [puzzles].” Technology has enabled the Mystery Hunt to grow and evolve in significant ways, and not just in terms of the kinds of puzzles that are possible. Through the mid-1990s, a single person could take on the responsibility of writing and running the event. Today it’s a yearlong commitment for the winning team to design the next year’s Hunt. Doing so requires managing creative output and technological infrastructure that rival those of a small business. Duties include spending thousands of hours writing and testing puzzles, constructing physical puzzles and props, and building a dynamic website that can withstand the huge influx of puzzle-hungry visitors. Just organizing a team of solvers can be a major undertaking, especially now that more and more participants are joining remotely. Anjali Tripathi ’09, who started the team I’m Not a Planet Either in 2015, got her introduction to puzzle hunts through a miniature Mystery Hunt that Simmons Hall runs for first-years. After tackling the main event with the Simmons team on campus as an undergrad, she participated remotely for the first time in 2010. “I was abroad in England and still wanted to do Hunt, and I remember how hard that was,” she says. The team “had no infrastructure for it.” Today, solvers can work together across the room or across a continent. Platforms like Slack and Discord have become indispensable to many teams, which use them for updates and announcements as well as creating separate channels where people can tackle a given puzzle together. Many teams use applications that organize the convoluted deluge of puzzles into a workflow so everyone can see which have been solved, which need attention, and who’s working on what. Google Docs and Google Sheets make it easy for multiple people to contribute to progress on the same puzzle whether they’re sitting side by side on campus or are separated by several time zones. “I think especially post-2020, there is just the expectation that everything is going to be accessible online,” says Tripathi, who still has a Hunt-related Google doc from 2008, just a couple of years after the service launched. But even as the Mystery Hunt has adapted to the internet—and to increasingly powerful search engines, smartphones, the Zoom era, and even some machine-learning applications—at its core it remains a very human experience. “It’s about connecting with other humans—that’s why we do it,” says Erin Rhode ’04, a longtime Mystery Hunter whose team has won twice. She recalls being inducted into the Hunt as a first-year in 2001. “An upperclassman came in and was like, ‘You’re coming to the math majors’ lounge. We’re doing this puzzle hunt thing.’” The name of Rhode’s team changes every year, though they might be best known for the year their name was the entire text of Ayn Rand’s . Last year, they were . (That’s not a typo or a missing word—it’s the zero-width space, a Unicode non-character primarily used in document formatting.) Like so much of the Hunt, team names are an exercise in creativity. The full name of the team running the 2024 Mystery Hunt was officially The Team Formerly Known as the Team Formerly Known as the Team Formerly Known as the Team Formerly Known as the Team Formerly Known as the Team to Be Named Later. Some teams keep their name every year, like Setec Astronomy (an anagram for “too many secrets,” in a reference to the classic 1992 heist film ). Others change every year or every few years, or when teams merge, as when Death from Above joined forces with Project Electric Mayhem to become Death and Mayhem. Rhode remembers one particular puzzle from her first Hunt that she and her team (known that year as the Vermicious Knids) worked on through the night. They had to figure out that a list of enigmatic phrases were clues to song titles. For example, “Of course; you just go north on Highway 101” clued the song “Do You Know the Way to San Jose?” “I think today, we would have solved that puzzle in about an hour,” Rhode says. “There weren’t song lyric databases back then. And so it was a lot more sitting around on your own trying to come up with songs as opposed to just finding some master list and then searching it.” Writing puzzles with the knowledge that solvers will have a slew of tools at hand is just part of the process. “Use whatever technology you have at your disposal to solve the puzzle is the general rule of thumb,” says Jon Schneider ’13, a machine-learning researcher who hunts with ✈️✈️✈️ Galactic Trendsetters ✈️✈️✈️. (The ✈️✈️✈️ in their team name is pronounced like a plane taking off and landing, respectively.) Schneider has been hunting since 2010, when it was common for solvers to have to identify clips of songs or other audio. He’s seen that change in the past decade, though: “Audio recognition [technology] like Shazam has become a thing, so it’s harder to create puzzles that require the skill of music recognition.” “When you’re a constructor, you try to figure out: What is my challenge for the solver?” says Dan Katz ’03. Katz has solved and written a lot of puzzles. (In fact, he created a five-puzzle mini Hunt for this issue’s .) He attended his first Mystery Hunt in 1998, as a junior in high school, before he had even applied to MIT. He’s been part of a winning team eight times (probably a record) and competes in events like the World Sudoku Championship and US Puzzle Championship. In Katz’s view, technology should make puzzling more interesting for the solver. While solvers might need to, say, code a program, organize information in a spreadsheet, or navigate a video-game-like interface to arrive at an answer, what he prizes most is the mental challenge of figuring out to solve a puzzle. Rhode misses the days before an app was able to listen to a few seconds of a song and identify it. “One of my superpowers in the early days of the Hunt was: Play me a bunch of pop songs and I can identify like 90% of them,” she says. “Now everybody’s got Shazam on their phone. And so as fast as I might be, Shazam was always going to be faster.” That doesn’t mean puzzles can’t be based on song identification—or image identification, another common puzzle element that has been made trivial by tools like Google’s image search capabilities. It just means constructors must become more creative. “You have to obscure the images or the music in such a way that the technology can’t find it quickly,” Rhode says. She describes a puzzle she wrote when she wanted solvers to identify songs without using technology: “I arranged eight songs a cappella and sang them myself, but buzzing like a bee. And the whole idea was you can’t Shazam that.” Schneider’s team took a similar approach to constructing a puzzle in which solvers had to identify specific visual artists—not by their work, but by their distinctive style. Solvers were prompted to upload an image of their choosing, and a generative AI tool similar to DALL-E rendered it in the style of the artist they were supposed to name. That’s not the only puzzle to have incorporated some machine-learning elements in the last few years. A few examples have used semantic similarity scoring systems where solvers have to guess words or ­phrases—a kind of machine-learning-enabled version of “hot or cold.” Even if machine learning has potential as a tool for puzzle constructors, generative AI is unlikely to solve Mystery Hunt puzzles anytime soon. ChatGPT can answer questions that might be helpful in getting started and maybe even help solve a crossword clue or two, but the puzzles are often so unusual that it doesn’t know where to begin. When presented with them, it usually responds by stating that it “would need more context or clues” in order to proceed. Schneider did find ChatGPT very helpful, though, in solving a non–Mystery Hunt puzzle about navigating the byzantine rules of the role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons, which he admits he’s never played. A few years ago, there would have been no way around spending hours digging through the rulebooks and figuring out each step, but giving the puzzle to ChatGPT worked. “It was really good at doing this. I guess it had trained on enough data of people playing Dungeons & Dragons that this was within its capabilities,” he says. Schneider is optimistic that new technology will be integrated into Mystery Hunt in creative ways, expanding the scope of what puzzle constructors can come up with to entertain solvers. Ultimately, he says, “I mostly just want to be surprised.” As the sun sets on Sunday, Setec continues solving puzzles at a steady pace, but we’re also still unlocking new sections of the Hunt—a sign that we’re still some distance from the endgame, though rumors (but never spoilers) from friends on other teams suggest that a few teams might be closing in. As midnight rolls around there’s still no announcement, and so we push on. Ultimately, the 2024 Hunt ends up running into Monday morning, one of only a handful of times it’s taken more than 60 hours to complete. A little after 5 a.m., team Death and Mayhem solves the final puzzle to win the 2024 Mystery Hunt—and the responsibility of developing the , which kicks off on January 17. In the end, 266 teams have solved at least one of the 2024 Hunt’s 237 puzzles and Setec Astronomy has solved 174. (Teams typically care less about postgame rankings than about how many puzzles they get to before time runs out.) The Team Formerly Known as the Team to Be Named Later sends out an announcement that a wrap-up event, at which they’ll give a full overview of the weekend and hand over the reins to Death and Mayhem, will begin at noon in 26-100. Because creating a Mystery Hunt is such a daunting task, Death and Mayhem got to work on this year’s within hours of winning, says James Douberley ’13, who assumed the title of “benevolent dictator” to orchestrate and oversee the team’s puzzle writing. The weight of expectation is not lost on Douberley and his teammates: This is a once-a-year event that holds a lot of meaning for many participants. The Mystery Hunt is about solving puzzles, but it’s also far more social and immersive than puzzle books and escape rooms. In 2024, nearly 2,000 people representing 91 teams showed up on campus to participate­—and another 2,450 or so signed up to puzzle from afar. All told, solvers included 52 faculty members, 278 students, and 950 alumni, ranging from recent graduates to those who got their degrees decades ago. For Chang, the Hunt is an opportunity to connect with the broader community, including alumni from her dorm whom she doesn’t see often. “This is the one time in the year that we get to all just be in one place together and do this thing that we love,” she says. “It’s just a really great bonding experience.” The MIT campus plays a special role in the Hunt. Maybe you have to use the walls of the List Visual Arts Center lobby as a grid for a logic puzzle, or find certain names on the memorial plaques in Lobby 10 whose first letters spell out an answer. But it’s not just that clues can be part of the physical space—it’s that campus is the epicenter for the MIT spirit of creativity, inventiveness, and industriousness that makes the Mystery Hunt unique. “People talk about New York being a character in movies,” Katz says. “I feel like MIT is a character in Mystery Hunt.” For Douberley, the Mystery Hunt takes him back to his student days, when he tackled hard challenges through marathon work sessions and all-nighters. “You fall asleep on the floor, and you’re in the dorm lounge and your friend comes and wakes you up and says, ‘Here’s a coffee—I need your help with something,’” he says. “And that is something that lives with you for the rest of your life.” The kicks off on January 17, 2025. But if you’re eager to start puzzling before then—or get a taste of puzzling if you’ve never taken part before—check out the , a pre-Hunt round of puzzles written by the Mystery Hunt team known as the Providence Crime Syndication. 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Is Diamondback Energy (FANG) the Best Fuel Stock to Buy Now?Shares of health insurance companies including UnitedHealth Group continued to fall on Friday, two days after Brian Thompson, the CEO of the company’s health insurance unit, was fatally shot outside a Manhattan hotel by a gunman waiting for him. The shooter is still at large and his motive for the attack has not been determined, police officials say. Thompson’s death sparked a wide social media conversation over frustrations with navigating the US health insurance system, particularly when medical expenses are not covered or insurance claims or requests for care are denied. “The anti-insurer sentiment expressed by the public after this event suggests that UnitedHealth and perhaps the industry may need to adjust how they handle coverage decisions,” said Morningstar analyst Julie Utterback. Shares of UnitedHealth slid 5% on Friday to $549.62 after a 5% drop on Thursday. Rival insurers Elevance, Centene, CVS Health, and Cigna also fell between 1.5% and 3%. Those shares all lost ground on Thursday as well. The words “deny,” “defend” and “depose” were carved into shell casings found at the scene, police sources told ABC and the New York Post. The words evoke the title of Jay Feinman’s 2010 book critical of the US insurance industry: “Delay Deny Defend: Why Insurance Companies Don’t Pay Claims and What You Can Do About It.” Follow the latest on the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson : Social media sites have been flooded with angry posts attacking the companies and users sharing personal frustrations on coverage rejections and how they have been denied necessary care, as well as sarcastic videos with unsympathetic messages like “thoughts and prayers require prior authorization.” Health insurance companies are reassessing the risks for their top executives with both UnitedHealth and CVS removing photos of their leadership teams from their websites after the shooting. Potential changes in coverage decisions may be prompted by internal initiatives or external pressures that could pose risks for profits, said Utterback. The insurance industry has been facing higher costs over the past few quarters due to increased demand for health care under government-backed Medicare plans for older adults or those with disabilities, as well as changes in Medicaid eligibility from states, which has left insurers with more patients who require more medical services.Vanna White's son, Nikko Santo Pietro, is getting a kick out of the fact that he's become a "heartthrob" to "Wheel of Fortune” fans. Just days after Santo Pietro caused a commotion by appearing alongside White in a cooking video , the 30-year-old real estate agent told "Entertainment Tonight" he found the attention "flattering." “Obviously, I’ve had an outpour from her fans just really being kind and saying all kinds of interesting stuff in the comments,” Santo Pietro said during a joint interview with White. Santo Pietro, whose dad is White's ex-husband, George San to Pietro , said navigating the attention was all in a day's work for him. "I always loved being in front of the camera. I work really hard on my social media. That's a big part of what I do. So it feels natural and good," he said. "A lot of it, too, (is) people see me as this heartthrob and they're thirsty for me and all this stuff ... I love it all," he continued. "But at the same time it's really good to remember the meaningful things in life and to just kind of dial it back and doing a lot of charity work, working hard every day." When "ET" wondered if any of White's fans should try shooting their shot with him, Santo Pietro revealed he's been dating singer-songwriter Easae for a year. "She obviously detected the heartthrob thing before America did," he joked. Santo Pietro's remarks come a few days after he appeared in a tight white T-shirt and blue jeans alongside White in a cooking video on their Instagram pages that coincided with "Fabulous Food Week" on "Wheel of Fortune." Many of White's fans appeared to focus more on Santo Pietro's looks than the chicken dish he was preparing. “Vanna where have you been hiding Nikko? He’s GORGEOUS,” wrote one person. One of White's fans worked in a "Wheel of Fortune" joke while reacting to the video, writing, “My next three letters are H-O-T!”

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Southern California quarterback Miller Moss is entering the transfer portal after losing the Trojans' starting job last month. Moss made his announcement on social media Monday. Moss started the Trojans ' bowl victory last season and their first nine games this season before coach Lincoln Riley replaced him with Jayden Maiava in early November. “Being a USC Trojan was a lifelong dream of mine,” Moss wrote. “Putting on the cardinal and gold and competing on behalf of my teammates and school is something I will forever take pride in. I poured everything I have into this — body, heart, mind and soul — and am humbled by and proud of what my teammates and I accomplished.” Moss, who was born in Los Angeles and went to high school in the San Fernando Valley, signed with USC before Riley arrived at the school. Moss also stayed with the Trojans after Caleb Williams transferred from Oklahoma to rejoin Riley, and he served as Williams’ backup for two seasons before getting his chance to play with six touchdown passes in last year's Holiday Bowl. Moss completed 64.4% of his passes this season for 2,555 yards with 18 touchdowns and nine interceptions. After a spectacular 378-yard performance to beat LSU in the Trojans' season opener, Moss didn't play poorly as a starter, but he also wasn't a difference-maker while USC stumbled to a 4-5 record. Moss threw seven interceptions in his final five starts before losing the job to Maiava. The Trojans went 1-4 in that stretch under Moss, who plays as a more traditional pocket passer while Maiava has the mobility usually favored for quarterbacks in Riley's spread offense. “Looking towards the future, I'm unwaveringly committed to becoming an even better quarterback and leader, and to achieving this at the next level,” Moss wrote. Moss has already graduated from USC, putting him in the portal as a graduate student. USC (6-6) is headed to a lower-tier bowl game again to finish this season, its third under Riley. AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-footballDunxin Financial Holdings Limited Announces Planned ADS Ratio Change

The Raiders entered this season riding an eight-game winning streak over the Broncos. Denver ended its losing streak to the Raiders in emphatic fashion in a 34-18 victory in Week 5, and bettors are all over the Broncos to win and cover again in Sunday’s AFC West rematch at Allegiant Stadium. Denver is a consensus 6-point favorite after the look-ahead line was 3 at the Westgate SuperBook and reopened at 4 after the Broncos blew out the Falcons 38-6 on Sunday and the Raiders lost 34-19 to the Dolphins. “There has been an avalanche of money on the Broncos,” Westgate vice president of race and sports John Murray said. “The most one-way game of the week is Denver. The Raiders are going to be our biggest sweat. Denver is a hot team right now. They’re playing some really good football, and everybody is going to bet on the Broncos.” The action also has been one-sided in favor of the Broncos at Station Sports, where 82 percent of the tickets are on Denver. “That’s really surprising, but the Raiders are just a team right now trending the wrong way, though they’ve had a history of success against the Broncos in recent years,” Red Rock Resort sportsbook director Chuck Esposito said. “We’re clearly going to be Raiders fans.” The consensus total is 41, with the number at 411⁄2 at Circa Sports. The Raiders are on a 7-2 over run, and the Broncos are on a 5-2 over run. The Raiders (2-8, 4-6 ATS) are tied for the NFL’s second-worst record behind the Jaguars (2-9) and have the league’s longest losing streak at six games. Denver (6-5, 8-3 ATS) is one of the NFL’s biggest surprises. It already has topped its season win total of 51⁄2 and is tied for the second-best spread record in the league behind the Lions (8-2 ATS). Broncos rookie quarterback Bo Nix has thrown for 14 touchdowns and only two interceptions in his last nine games. The former Oregon star is the +325 second choice at Circa to win the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year award behind Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, the heavy -510 favorite. “Bo Nix has played great, they’re really good defensively, they’ve got a good offensive line and a coach (Sean Payton) that has a quarterback very similar to what he had (in New Orleans) in Drew Brees,” Esposito said. “These teams are definitely trending in opposite directions.” Best bets Professional sports bettor Jeff Whitelaw bet on the Broncos at -4 on Monday before the line shot up Wednesday to 6. “I don’t really see anything at this number (-6). This is about what I made it,” he said. “These teams are going in different directions. Denver is playing really well, and their defense is very, very good. The Raiders just seem to be in total disarray.” Three-time Review-Journal NFL Challenge champion Doug Fitz, 32-23 ATS in the contest this season, made the Raiders +6 his best bet this week. “The Raiders showed some signs of life on offense in offensive coordinator Scott Turner’s first game replacing Luke Getsy,” said Fitz (Systemplays.com). “The Broncos are obviously the better team, but this is a home division game for the Raiders. “I think the Raiders keep this close, and I expect a bit of a letdown from the Broncos after their dominant performance last week against a good Falcons’ team.” Contact reporter Todd Dewey at tdewey@reviewjournal.com. Follow @tdewey33 on X. Player to score first touchdown At Caesars Sportsbook Up to 30-1 Javonte Williams 6-1 Courtland Sutton 7-1 Brock Bowers 11-1 Jakobi Meyers 11-1 Devaughn Vele 12-1 Audric Estime 12-1 Bo Nix 13-1 Tre Tucker 14-1 Jaleel McLaughlin 17-1 Marvin Mims, Jr. 18-1 Lil'Jordan Humphrey 18-1 Troy Franklin 19-1 Adam Trautman 21-1 DJ Turner 22-1 Gardner Minshew 30-1

A TikToker who went viral teaching science videos predicts short-form video will make its way into the national curriculum after 2024 saw him publish a new book and win a TikTok award. Emanuel Wallace, 27, from east London, is better known as Big Manny by his 1.9 million followers on TikTok, where he shares videos explaining various science experiments from his back garden while using Jamaican Patois phrases and London slang. In early December, Mr Wallace won the Education Creator of the Year award at the TikTok Awards ceremony, which he said is a “symbol that anything that you put your mind to you can achieve”. The content creator began making videos during the coronavirus pandemic when schools turned to online learning but has since expanded his teaching from videos to paper after releasing his debut book Science Is Lit in August. He believes his “unconventional” teaching methods help to make his content relatable for younger audiences by using slang deriving from his Jamaican and British heritage. “The language that I use, it’s a combination between Jamaican Patois and London slang because I have Jamaican heritage,” the TikToker, who holds a bachelors and masters degree in biomedical science, told the PA news agency. “That’s why in my videos sometimes I might say things like ‘Wagwan’ or ‘you dun know’. I just want to connect with the young people more, so I speak in the same way that they speak. “The words that I use, the way that I deliver the lesson as well, I would say that my method of teaching is quite unconventional. I speak in a way that is quite conversational.” Examples of his videos include lithium batteries catching fire after being sandwiched inside a raw chicken breast, as well as mixing gold with gallium to create blue gold, earning millions of views. Mr Wallace hopes his content will help make the science industry more diverse, saying “the scientists that I was taught about, none of them look like me”. “Now me being a scientist is showing young people that they can become one as well, regardless of the background that they come from, the upbringing that they’ve had,” he said. “I just want to make it seem more attainable and possible for them because if I can do it, and I come from the same place as you, there’s no reason why you can’t do it as well.” The TikToker has seen a shift in more young people turning to the app as a learning resource and feels short-form videos will soon become a part of the national curriculum in schools. “I’m seeing (young people) using that a lot more – social media as a resource for education – and I feel like in the future, it’s going to become more and more popular as well,” he said. “I get a lot of comments from students saying that my teacher showed my video in the classroom as a resource, so I feel like these short form videos are going to be integrated within the national curriculum at some point in the near future.” He also uses his platform to raise awareness of different social issues, which he said is “extremely important”. One of his videos highlighted an anti-knife campaign backed by actor Idris Elba, which earned more than 39 million views, while his clip about the banning of disposable vapes was viewed more than 4.6 million times. He said there is some pressure being a teacher with a large following online but hopes he can be a role model for young people. “I’m aware that I am in the public eye and there’s a lot of young people watching me,” he said. “Young people can be impressionable, so I make sure that I conduct myself appropriately, so that I can be a role model. “I always have the same message for young people, specifically. I tell them to stay curious. Always ask questions and look a little bit deeper into things.” His plans for 2025 include publishing a second Science Is Lit book and expanding his teaching to television where he soon hopes to create his own science show.

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MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (AP) — Brandon Nunez threw just two passes, each for a score, and New Mexico State beat Middle Tennessee 36-21 on Saturday to end a three-game losing streak. Nunez tossed a 12-yard touchdown pass to Seth McGowan to give the Aggies a 20-7 lead midway through the third quarter. After Middle Tennessee pulled to 26-21 early in the fourth, Nunez tossed a 4-yard TD pass to Cooper Sheehan that made it 33-21 with 7:43 left. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis insists the club's ambitions to finish in the top six of the Premier League are realistic, in an exclusive sit-down interview with Sky Sports from his Piraeus base. In only their third season back in the top flight - after that long-awaited promotion from the Championship - Nuno Espirito Santo has guided the Tricky Trees to sixth, with six wins from their first 14 games, and the 57-year-old is certain there is more to come in the future. It was one of a number of topics the Greek billionaire discussed with Sky Sports News senior reporter Rob Dorsett during his most revealing UK interview yet; 'Meeting Marinakis', which is available on demand. As he sat down with Dorsett in Piraeus, he spoke about his passion, learning about Forest during his time in England in the 1980s, his ongoing gripes with VAR, the January transfer window and more. Rob Dorsett: I don't think a lot of people know you, certainly in England. How would you describe yourself? Trending Evangelos Marinakis: "I have a passion for what I do and I have reached that stage very quickly. I have been lucky enough - or capable, or a combination - since I was very young to have business success. Because of this success, I could afford to do things that I enjoy most. "My business, shipping, is something that gives me a lot of pleasure to work. It's very international, it's a global business and you need to compete with very big companies, even state companies around the world where there is no politics as such. You need to be capable enough, you need to be strong enough in order to compete and you need to be smart and make quick decisions in order to be able to compete and be successful with very big companies in the industry." Also See: Meeting Marinakis: The King of Piraeus' life, work & love of football Watch Premier League highlights for free Stream the Premier League with NOW Download the Sky Sports app Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player RD: That strikes me as you loving a challenge, in business and in football... EM: "This is something that gives me satisfaction and what I enjoy most is the journey. When you have the success, when you have the victory, maybe you feel a bit tired, you feel a bit stressed and even though everybody is celebrating next to you and with you, you don't enjoy it as much. But the journey to reach the victory, this is what makes a lot of sense and I get a big satisfaction out of it." RD: You never seem to rest on your laurels and think you've achieved enough. It wasn't enough to get Nottingham Forest into the Premier League, that was just the start. It wasn't enough to get Olympiacos into European competition, that was just the start. Are you always hungry for more? EM: "You need to put in endless effort, but at the same time, during this journey, [you need] to have also enormous happiness in what you do. You can become passionate about it, you can have arguments in order to protect your team, your interests. The people of Piraeus are the people of Nottinghamshire. "With what I'm involved in in business, you have a lot of employees, the crews of the vessels, the people in the office and, in football, it's the players, it's the supporters, it's the technical staff around and what we do has to do with the people, 100 per cent. It's good to have good facilities, or to have very good vessels, modern vessels, in shipping. But if you have all this and you don't have a good captain, or a capable captain, or capable players, it means nothing. So I think the power is the people, it's not myself. "The power comes from the people, either the ones that you work together or your supporters. I think that the human skills make the difference. What you must do all the time is work hard. The people next to you need to see that so they can do the same. And you need to be there to inspire them to do it and to do it in a way that is competitive, a way that can bring victory. "You need to have a winning spirit all the time and you need to have this from the guy who cleans the facilities, up to the president, up to the owner, up to the coach, up to the captain of the team. All of them should be able to work together, to be together. The togetherness in whatever you do is extremely important. That's why, whenever I talk, I don't speak about myself; I use words that have to do with all of us. We do it." RD: You've just taken charge of the first Greek side ever to win a major European trophy... EM: "Two! It was the first time in history in UEFA that a team won both competitions [the U19 team won the UEFA Youth League]." RD: I know that you took the Europa Conference League trophy to your father's grave to share that with him. EM: "His grave is here in Piraeus, but also we sent it to Crete, where he came from and, of course, all over Greece. It was a special moment because it's important to show what I have done to the person who inspired me to do this. It's good not to forget your roots, for all of us. It was something that I had promised to myself, and it happened." RD: Let's talk about Forest, because they're on a real high as well. Nottingham Forest are being talked about at the top of the Premier League. How special is that? EM: "For me, that was the target from the beginning. When I first said it, people said it's crazy or it's b*******. But, for me, this is important, otherwise I wouldn't do it. If Forest weren't a big team, I wouldn't get involved. For me, it's the memories that I have. "It was when I was first visiting England and then I stayed in England. That was at the beginning of the 1980s and there were two teams at the time: Liverpool and Nottingham Forest. They wore the same colour as Olympiacos red. We're talking about thousands or millions of supporters. "You can see it with the teams that I'm involved with, these two teams in Greece and in England. Olympiacos is the biggest team, by far, in Greece. Half of the Greek population supports Olympiacos and Nottingham Forest is one of the very big teams in England, both in what we have achieved and also with the supporter base. For me, this is very important. "We have a multi-club ownership and a lot see it as business. I don't necessarily see it this way. It's very difficult to combine business with football, especially with big teams when you need to win trophies, you need to participate in Europe. "It doesn't necessarily mean that you can make money - the opposite in a lot of cases. We don't have an unlimited budget, we are not a state company or a company that can afford each year to lose money. We need to find the balance between what we spend and what we can achieve. Of course it's not easy; this needs a lot of hard work, but we try our very best to be able to be competitive at a cost that is affordable nowadays. RD: Is it realistic to think you could regularly compete with the big six? EM: "Yes, I think that is realistic. And it's up to us at the end of the day. I think it's very important to take responsibility. So I take responsibility in the bad times; in the good times we can share this responsibility. "It's something pleasant to share responsibilities during good times and victories, but in the difficult times you need to take responsibility, correct your mistakes and act accordingly so you can recover and fight back and come back and win." RD: It will be a huge coup if negotiations progress and Arsenal's departing sporting director Edu, somebody who is so well thought of in the game, comes to be part of your group. EM: "Edu was a very good player and also a very good sporting and technical director. I have a lot of respect for him. The results we saw over the years at Arsenal were very good and he has done an excellent job at Arsenal. "What I can say is that I would like to cooperate with him on a much bigger project, a global project. I'm optimistic that in case all this goes ahead, it will be another successful venture for both of us. "I'm very optimistic about it, but we need to see how this will be developed and will be finalised, if and when time allows." RD: That would be quite the statement about your ambition going forward. EM: "Yes. And I think that there are a lot of people that want to cooperate with us and work with us and that means that they respect us and they appreciate what we do. It gives us satisfaction that what we do is something that is appealing to very good people in the industry." RD: I wanted to ask you about the multi-club structure. You're already in Portugal, Greece and England - and I'm told Italy and Brazil are in your targets as well. Is that right? Possibly Vasco da Gama? EM: "There are discussions and what I can say is that whatever I want to get involved in needs to be something major. The tradition is very important and it always makes more sense to me to manage or to own. "But in big clubs where we're talking about millions of supporters, you don't consider it as ownership. I cannot use the word that I 'bought' Olympiacos or I 'bought' Nottingham Forest. This is something huge. It's for all the supporters, for millions of people, so I cannot see it as a business. "It's very important, in whatever I'm involved in, to be a team that has a big supporter base. Portugal is an exception. It's a smaller team. But what we need to do is for this team also to be upgraded and to be one of the [top] six or seven teams in Portugal. It's very important because, for us, the Brazilian market is very important. "We have some very good players that have played over the years in Olympiacos and also now in Nottingham Forest. But in Portugal, Brazilians, they play as Europeans. It's a gate, let's say, for Brazilian players into Europe. And for me this is very important for the years to come." RD: Your passion, I think, has got you into trouble with the football authorities in England. How do you feel about that? EM: "The passion is something that you cannot help. Either you have it or you don't have it. I think it's very important for the leader of a team, of a business, of an organisation, to try his very best to protect the interests of the team, of the company, of your family. "I consider Nottingham Forest as a family. So, when you see things that are not right, you can be loud about it. And believe me, so far, whenever we have been loud, we were absolutely right. We live in democratic countries, especially in Greece, where democracy was born. "So, to have an opinion and to be able to share this opinion with people is not something that I find that is bad or doesn't make sense. We have seen things that are unbelievable and you need to have the courage and the power to stand by what you say and to be able to prove that what you say is correct." RD: Do you mean refereeing decisions? EM: "Yes. The other thing is, nowadays, in football, we have VAR. So, why do we have VAR? In order to double-check decisions that take place instantly and from different angles. A lot of times, you can make a mistake. But when you have all the time you need to watch from different angles, in a comfortable chair, and you can spend one minute, two minutes, three minutes, four minutes, even five minutes to watch it and watch it again, then it's very difficult to accept a human mistake. "Unfortunately, we have seen big mistakes take place with VAR. Being a human being, you are obliged to make mistakes. It's natural to make mistakes. But when you see repeated mistakes from the same people, this is something that needs to be corrected, and needs to be corrected immediately. Authorities or organisations - the FA, it's the Premier League, it's UEFA, it's FIFA - they have a duty to all of us to rectify all this. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player "This duty of responsibility towards the clubs to make sure that there is justice. And when mistakes happen, to be able to rectify them is very important. Sometimes, when this doesn't happen, someone should be strong enough to be loud about it, in order to prevent similar occasions and also to prevent other teams - not only your team - facing similar situations. "This is something that I have no regrets [about] and it will continue to be the case. Sometimes it takes longer to prove that you are right and, until this is proven, you might face consequences that can harm your interest or your image, or your business, your club. "But we are strong enough and we can afford to wait and we can afford to take the blame. For one reason, that when we have little time to relax, I feel good with myself, that I have done it in the right way, which might take time to prove, but it doesn't matter. The answer is that this will not change and people like myself, or leaders like myself, are needed in today's society, today's football, today's business, to be able to take decisions or to try their very best to prove their points and the correct points. As simple as that. "No one is perfect. Every one of us is allowed to make mistakes, but we are also allowed to correct these mistakes. What is not allowed is this to be repeated. It's our duty and responsibility to correct it. RD: It strikes me that Nottingham Forest have a really big opportunity this season to maybe make a European place. Do you see it like that? EM: "I see it even higher and I think you need to believe in your dreams. Of course it's difficult. It might take you more time, it might take years, but you need to have the right mentality and always have targets that are difficult to be achieved. But you try your best. "You try to persuade your family, your team-mates, the guys that you work with that this is possible. Because nothing is impossible. You should never give up. You should be able to stand up. Try your best, correct your mistake, try again and again and again. And at the end of the day, you'll be rewarded with a victory. So it's a matter of time and it's a matter of patience and hard work and faith. RD: Do you feel you want to invest heavily in January to try and make that big push for Europe? EM: "We have the Financial Fair Play that restricts us from unlimited spending." Tom from Southampton became a millionaire for free with Super 6! Could you be the next jackpot winner? Play for free!Recently, a heartwarming moment between Chinese actor Zhan Shu, also known as Zan Zuo, and actress Guo Biting has captured the hearts of many. During a haircutting session, Zan Zuo took the opportunity to express his love and admiration for Guo Biting, leading to a sweet and romantic declaration that has touched the lives of countless individuals.

When the snow is falling and hot chocolate is piping, few activities are more refreshing and relaxing than plopping down on the couch and turning on the television. Some will watch live Christmas events from Rockefeller Center, while others will tune into a bowl game. But if you’re of a certain age, you clearly remember the excitement when Nickelodeon began to roll out its litany of timeless Christmas specials. From Kenan & Kel in the 1990s to Danny Phantom in the late 2000s, Nickelodeon has entered the pantheon of networks that have consistently rolled out classic holiday specials. While Nickelodeon’s legacy is cemented, the ranking of its best holiday season episodes is and will always be hotly contested. Not to start a debate at the holiday dinner table, but here are the 10 best classic Nickelodeon holiday specials. Show: Keenan & Kel Air Date: December 14, 1996 Kel ( Kel Mitchell ) loves orange soda and Kenan ( Kenan Thompson ) loves Christmas. He spends the entire year saving money to buy a new bike and takes an extra job as Santa at the mall to help get the last few dollars he needs. However, his plans are derailed when he comes across a brother and sister who dream of a great Christmas filled with presents that their mother can’t afford. In a selfless mood, Kenan uses the money he makes as Santa to surprise the kids and their mom with presents. Kenan’s upset that he didn’t get the bike he wanted, but he knows he did the right thing and Santa rewards him with a bike of his own. As with many Nickelodeon holiday specials, Kenan’s act of giving underscores the importance of family, friends, community, and giving throughout the holiday season. Show: Invader Zim Air Date: December 10, 2002 Name two more idiotically entertaining rivals than Zim ( Richard Steven Horvitz ) and Dib (Andy Berman). I’ll wait. While I wait, also figure out why Dib’s dad, Professor Membrane ( Rodger Bumpass ), named him Dib. Anyway, Zim and Dib’s rivalry takes center stage when Zim learns about the lure of Santa, kidnaps a man dressed up in a Santa suit and drains his brain. Normal holiday festivities, right? Once Zim drains the man’s brain and learns more about the lure of Santa, he devises a plan to build a Santa suit and convince all of humankind that he’s worthy of following and giving their undying devotion too. For the most part, it works and Zim is close to bringing all of human kind to the Tallest in order to extend his rule. However, Dib intervenes and garners the support of his sister, Gaz (Melissa Fahn), and his father, Professor Membrane, and stops Zim before he’s able to fully takeover. Overall, it’s a pretty weird storyline for a kid’s show during the holiday season, but Invader Zim is at its best when it’s weird. Show: Rocko’s Modern Life Air Date: December 1, 1994 Rocko ( Carlos Alazraqui ) is a better person than most because his grace throughout this Christmas special is unmatched. For nearly the entire episode, Rocko works to put together beautiful holiday decorations and host a lovely holiday party. Instead, his friends treat him poorly, other characters bully him, and no one except a magic elf shows up to his party. The elf works his magic and creates a memorable snowfall around Rocko’s house and Rocko’s house only. When the blizzard leaves a perfect amount of snow and holiday cheer around his house, Rocko’s friends show up at his front door to apologize and make the most of the holiday party. Rocko, being the kind soul he is, lets them in and thanks them for coming. Show: iCarly Air Date: December 13, 2008 Timmy Turner ( Tara Strong ) isn’t the only character in the Nickelodeon multiverse to have their dreams come true during the holiday season. When Carly’s brother, Spencer ( Jerry Trainor ), builds an electromagnet Christmas tree that sets fire to holiday gifts, Carly ( Miranda Cosgrove ) wishes that her brother was a bit more normal. However, things aren’t as great as Carly hoped they’d be. Spencer becomes a “normal” lawyer dating Ms. Benson (Mary Scheer) while Freddie ( Nathan Kress ) no longer has a crush on Carly, and Sam ( Jennette McCurdy ) is in a juvenile detention center. Most shockingly, Carly, Spencer, and Freddie were never friends in this alternate universe and never launched a webcast. The weirdness of the episode pays off in the end because Carly realizes what we’ve always known: her life is pretty great as is. Show: As Told by Ginger Air Date: December 10, 2001 As Told by Ginger is one of the most underrated series in the Nickelodeon catalog for various reasons, including its humor and ability to reach both young and older audiences. Case in point, the show’s “Even Steven” holiday special is immaculate. In the tertiary plot, Ginger (Melissa Disney) discovers that her grandfather is Jewish and immediately pivots from celebrating Christmas to celebrating Hanukkah. Her shift from Christmas to Hanukkah happens so quickly that it causes a rift between her and Dodie (Aspen Miller) because Ginger refuses to go to Dodie’s Christmas party and hosts her own instead. Splitting the room down the middle, half of Ginger’s party is devoted to celebrating Hanukkah, and the other half is adorned with Christmas decorations. Meanwhile, Hoodsie ( Tress MacNeille) is writing letters to Santa, asking him to give him rhythm for Christmas. Yes, you read that correctly. He genuinely asked Santa for rhythm, the ability to dance on beat. When Ginger’s brother, Carl (Jeannie Elias), finds Hoodsie begging Santa for rhythm, he not only makes fun of him, but also declares that Santa isn’t real. As a result, Carl spends the remainder of the episode attempting to prove that Santa is real. Through this effort, he learns that Carl is not a fan of the holiday season because he routinely asked Santa to bring his father home for Christmas as a kid, and his dad rarely stopped by on the holidays. With this information, Hoodsie runs up to a man dressed as Santa on the street and asks him to bring Hoodsie’s Dad home for Christmas. Little does Hoodsie know, the man dressed up as Santa is Carl’s dad. In the end, Carl’s dad visits him for Christmas, and while they’re talking in the driveway, a fire starts inside as Ginger is hosting her holiday party. Carl’s dad runs in, puts out the fire, and saves the day, making Ginger realize that the most important part of the holidays is being surrounded by family and friends. And no, Carl does not get rhythm. Show: The Fairly OddParents Air Date: December 12, 2001 Clichés may be annoying, but they’ve stood the test of time for a reason. However, when an elder said, “Be careful what you wish for,” Timmy Turner clearly wasn’t listening. Instead, he had to learn the hard way when he told Wanda (Susanne Blakeslee) and Cosmo ( Daran Norris ) that he’d like it to be Christmas every day. In his head, there’d never be school, and he’d get presents every time he woke up. Conversely, Wanda and Cosmo are magically depleted, his parents can’t work, and the other holidays become envious of Santa Claus. As a result, Timmy must make a trip up to the North Pole all alone. Tough luck for a kid who can literally wish for whatever he wants every other day of the year already. Show: Drake & Josh Air Date: December 5, 2008 Give a little girl named Mary Alice the best Christmas ever, or go back to jail. That’s essentially the plot of “Merry Christmas, Drake and Josh.” Drake ( Drake Bell ) desperately wants to host a party on the rooftop of Josh’s workplace, Premier Theater. To the surprise of just about everyone, Josh’s boss agrees to let Drake host the party as long as he volunteers to dress up as Santa for kids in the mall. Drake agrees, but things go haywire when a woman tries to kiss him, and he runs away. While hiding, he runs into a little girl named Mary Alice ( Bailee Madison ) and promises to give her the best Christmas ever. Drake finishes his shift as Santa and gets to host the party after all, but it’s cut short when a few uninvited guests show up, and Josh ( Josh Peck ) calls the police. However, there’s a mixup when the police arrive and Josh gets arrested. Being the good stepbrother he is, Drake tries to break Josh out of jail. Unfortunately, Drake gets arrested, too. When Drake and Josh get to speak to a judge, they explain that they need to get out to fulfill Drake’s promises to Mary Alice. The judge releases them, but warns that they will be brought back if they do not give Mary Alice the best Christmas ever. No pressure, right? Show: Rugrats Air Date: December 6, 1992 It may not seem like it, but there is not much of a difference between The Boondocks ‘ Huey Freeman ( Regina King ) and the children of Rugrats . Huey chases Santa around the mall with a BB gun, screaming, “You gon’ pay what you owe.” Meanwhile, Tommy ( Elizabeth Daily ), Chuckie (Christine Cavanaugh), and the crew are setting dangerous traps for Santa , so they can question him about his character. “The Santa Experience” kicks off at the mall where Angelica (Cheryl Chase) bum rushes the line to see Santa and tells Mr. Claus how much she needs a dream dollhouse for Cynthia. While Mr. Claus pushed her away, mall staff gave her a box of free toys to apologize for Santa rightfully pushing her away. Even with the free presents, Angelica is ungrateful and doesn’t want them. Meanwhile, Tommy and Chuckie are debating whether or not Santa is a good person. You know, typical baby stuff, right? Tommy is convinced Santa is a great guy, while Chuckie is, of course, scared of Saint Nick and thinks he’s a bad guy. In the kitchen, the parents are having a relatable conversation about their challenges and struggles, trying to ensure each of their children has a good holiday season. Later, the kids and parents head north to celebrate Christmas in a cabin. There, Chuckie and Tommy set up a booby trap to catch Santa. Much to their disappointment, the trap only manages to catch Stu ( Jack Riley ). Ultimately, everything turns out for the best as Santa just rings the front doorbell and delivers the presents face-to-face. Angelica gets her doll house, Chuckie determines Santa is a good person after all, and the Rugrats get the perfect Christmas. Show: SpongeBob SquarePants Air Date: December 6, 2000 If you ask most fans of SpongeBob SquarePants about Squidward (Rodger Bumpass), most would say he’s closer to being the Grinch than Santa Claus. However, “Christmas Who?” proves otherwise. Spongebob ( Tom Kenny ) visits Sandy ( Carolyn Lawrence ) and finds the proud Texan setting up Christmas decorations around her house. Instead of helping her, Spongebob freaks out because he thinks the lights and decorations have started a fire. It would be nearly impossible to start a fire that far underwater, but I digress. Anyway, Sandy stops him and explains to Spongebob who Santa Claus is and what happens on Christmas. Excited and enchanted, Spongebob shares the story of Christmas and Santa Claus with nearly everyone in Bikini Bottom. As a result, everyone but Squidward sends letters to Santa and spends all night caroling. When Santa doesn’t show up, everyone calls Spongebob a fraud and mocks him, including Squidward. However, Spongebob turns Squidward’s heart from coal to gold when he gives him a handcrafted clarinet for Christmas so that he won’t go without a gift. In return, Squidward dresses up as Santa and surprises Spongebob, who is delighted, and wishes him a merry Christmas. Squidward didn’t account for all of the other citizens of Bikini Bottom spotting him and asking for gifts. Instead of ruining the charade, Squidward ends up giving away nearly everything in his home away as a gift. Thankfully, Squidward is rewarded when the real Santa Claus sends a letter thanking Squidward for helping keep the spirit of Christmas alive. Show: Hey Arnold! Air Date: December 11, 1996 “Arnold’s Christmas” is not only the best Nickelodeon late-year holiday special, but it’s arguably one of the best episodes of the entire series. The series revolves around Arnold (Toran Caudell) attempting to pull off a Christmas miracle for his neighbor, Mr. Hyunh (Baoan Coleman). Through this endeavor, much of Mr. Hyunh’s backstory is revealed, including the heartbreaking story of how he and his daughter, Mai (Hiep Thi Le), have been separated for more than 20 years. While Arnold and his best friend, Gerald (Jamil Walker Smith), fall short in their quest to find Mai and reconnect her with Mr. Hyunh, Helga (Francesca Marie Smith) unexpectedly saves the day and gets Mai in touch with her father. Helga never gets the credit for creating this touching reunion, but she will always be remembered for being the driving force behind one of the most touching moments in Nickelodeon history. More Headlines:The procedure, which was supposed to be routine and safe, took a tragic turn when Liu Dameili experienced complications during the surgery. Despite efforts by the medical team to stabilize her condition, she eventually succumbed to complications and passed away, leaving her fans and loved ones in shock and mourning.

Vikings withstand Bears' furious rally, win on field goal in OTBridgingApps® and Sentara Health Plans Creating Transition Tool for Children and Youth with Special Health Needs

Diane Moss lost her home in the Santa Monica Mountains after power lines ignited the apocalyptic Woolsey Fire in 2018. Since then, she’s pressed for a safer electric grid in California. “It’s so easy to forget the risk that we live in — until it happens to you,” said Moss, a longtime clean energy advocate. “All of us in California have to think about how we better prepare to survive disaster, which is only going to be more of a problem as the climate changes.” In recent years, California’s power companies have been doing just that: insulating power lines and burying lines underground, trimming trees, deploying drones and using risk-detection technology. As wildfires across the U.S. intensify , California is on the leading edge of efforts to prevent more deadly and destructive fires ignited by downed power lines and malfunctioning equipment. Customers have shouldered a hefty price for wildfire safety measures. From 2019 through 2023, the California Public Utilities Commission authorized the three largest utilities to collect $27 billion in wildfire prevention and insurance costs from ratepayers, according to a report to the Legislature. And the costs are projected to keep rising: The three companies — Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric — continue to seek billions more from customers for wildfire prevention spending. Rates are expected to continue outpacing inflation through 2027 . Fire safety projects are a big part of the reason that Californians pay the highest electric rates in the nation, outside of Hawaii. Other reasons include rooftop solar incentives, new transmission systems and upgrades for electric vehicles. High electric bills have helped fuel a statewide affordability crisis alongside soaring housing prices, expensive groceries and costly gasoline. Small businesses are feeling the burden, along with the state’s poorest residents: One in three low-income households served by the three utilities fell behind in paying their power bills this year. California’s three investor-owned utilities are regulated monopolies, so when they spend money on costs related to wildfires, they recover it through customers’ bills. The price of electricity has ignited debate about how much California families should bear for the cost of wildfire prevention, whether utilities are balancing risk and affordability and whether the money is being spent wisely. Loretta Lynch, a former head of the state utilities commission, said lack of oversight is a problem, with the commission “rubber-stamping outrageous costs” and allowing the companies to “address wildfires in the most expensive, least effective way possible.” One of the biggest controversies is whether the utilities should be spending so much on burying power lines, an extremely costly and slow process. Last year, a state audit concluded that the utilities commission and the state’s advocates office must do more to verify whether utilities were completing the work they sought payment for. The three companies say the billions of dollars in spending is necessary as climate change worsens wildfires across the state . Utility equipment has caused less than 10% of the state’s fires but nearly half of its most destructive fires, according to the utilities commission . PG&E, which a few years ago came out of bankruptcy triggered by its liability for several deadly, destructive fires, has adopted the stance that “catastrophic wildfires shall stop.” The company, which serves the most high-risk areas in California, is the state’s largest spender on wildfire prevention. PG&E plans to bury 10,000 miles of power lines in its highest-risk areas — work that is highly contentious because it is costly and slow. The company has buried 800 miles since 2021 , with each mile costing between $3 and $4 million. Last year, the commission approved a $3.7 billion plan for PG&E to bury 1,230 miles of lines through 2026. Sumeet Singh, PG&E’s chief operating officer, told CalMatters that the utility is concerned about rates, too. He said the company is “very committed to stabilizing our customer rates as we go forward without compromising safety. I think that’s clear, that it’s a non-negotiable....There’s a pretty robust process, and oversight, that we are under.” Kevin Geraghty, chief operating officer of SDG&E, called the wildfire spending process “the most highly-scrutinized, regulatory utility process I have ever been involved in, in my life.” Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order in October aimed at tackling the high costs of electricity, asking state agencies to evaluate their oversight of wildfire projects and ensure that the utilities are focused on “cost-effective” measures. He is seeking proposals for changes in rules or laws by Jan. 1. The spark for the increased spending came seven years ago, after California suffered one of its worst droughts and a series of devastating wildfires in 2017 and 2018, many ignited by utility equipment. Sixteen fires were caused by PG&E equipment during a rash of October 2017 fires that decimated Napa, Sonoma and other Northern California counties. That December, the Thomas Fire , sparked by Southern California Edison equipment, engulfed parts of Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. But the devastation of 2017 was only a prelude to an even graver year. On Nov. 8, 2018, the Camp Fire leveled the town of Paradise, killing 85 people, making it the deadliest wildfire in state history. The Camp Fire was caused by the failure of an old metal hook attached to a PG&E transmission tower. An intense wind event pushed the fire at a rate of roughly 80 football fields per minute at its peak. The company in 2020 pleaded guilty to 84 counts of involuntary manslaughter for its role in the disaster. The same day as the destruction in Paradise, another fire ignited some 470 miles south. In the Simi Hills of Ventura County, Southern California Edison wires in two separate locations made contact with others, triggering “arc” flashes that rained hot metal fragments and sparks onto the dry brush below. These triggered two blazes, which soon merged to form the Woolsey Fire. Santa Ana winds spread the conflagration across parched terrain, with swaths of the nationally protected Santa Monica Mountains reduced to ash. Moss, the clean energy advocate, evacuated her home with her son that day. Her husband, clinging to hope, stayed until the blaze threatened to swallow him whole. Their neighborhood near Malibu, with its heavily wooded surroundings, was no match for the inferno. “My husband stayed until the last minute, when it just — it looked like it could cost him his life,” Moss said. “Everybody else left, and just about all of us lost.” Three people died. Moss’ home was gone, reduced to a hollowed out structure and charred rubble, along with about 100,000 acres of parkland and wilderness , more than any other fire in recorded history for that area. In 2019, downed PG&E lines ignited Sonoma County’s Kincade Fire . Then two years later, the Dixie Fire , also caused by PG&E equipment, became the second largest wildfire in California history, burning 963,000 acres north of Chico. The 2021 Dixie Fire, which claimed one life and destroyed 1,311 structures, was the last catastrophic wildfire in California confirmed to be caused by utility equipment. The number of fires triggered by the companies’ equipment fluctuates from year to year, driven by the huge variability in California’s weather. But data from 2014 through 2023 indicate there were substantially fewer fires last year than in other recent years. SDG&E equipment caused 16 fires after its high of 32 fires in 2015, Southern California Edison had 90 fires, compared to a 2021 high of 173, and PG&E reported 374 fires after a high of 510 in 2020. PG&E also reported that fires in its highest-risk areas trended down every month of 2023 compared to the same months in previous years. But that progress reversed this year, with 62 fires reported by August in high-risk areas, compared to 65 in all of 2023. (PG&E would not provide 2024 fire data to CalMatters.) Caroline Thomas Jacobs, inaugural director of the state Office of Energy Infrastructure Safety, established in 2021 to oversee utility safety, said progress can be hard to measure. Nevertheless, she said she has seen a cultural shift at electric companies in recent years, with a more focused approach in high-risk areas and an environment that empowers workers to prioritize safety. “It just takes the wrong ignition ... under the right conditions, to have a catastrophic fire,” Thomas Jacobs said. “But are we in a better place? The numbers seem to indicate we’re moving in the right direction.” PG&E has installed more than 1,500 weather stations and 600 AI-enabled cameras to detect severe weather and ignitions, Singh said. Enhanced safety systems now cut power to lines within a tenth of a second. The utility also has cleared vegetation, ordered power shutoffs during high-risk times, insulated lines and buried some lines underground. “Where do we see the greatest risk?” Singh said the company asks itself, and “what is the most cost-effective way to be able to reduce that risk for every dollar that’s spent?” Southern California Edison said since its investments began in 2019, the risk of catastrophic wildfire in its system has dropped between 85 and 90%. The company plans to bury 600 miles of lines in high-risk areas but it is relying much more on less-expensive insulating technology, which already has been used on more than 6,000 miles of lines. SDG&E began prioritizing wildfire prevention, including underground and insulated lines, a decade ahead of the other two utilities, after its lines sparked three major fires in 2007. The company has avoided a catastrophic fire since 2007, despite operating in one of the nation’s most fire-prone regions. “We continue to double down, and do and do more tomorrow than we did yesterday,” said Brian D’Agostino, the utility’s vice president of wildfire and climate science. “We don’t take a single day without a fire for granted.” Critics say the scramble to address the wildfire crisis has left the state vulnerable to overspending by utilities. About two months before the Camp and Woolsey fires, outgoing Gov. Jerry Brown in 2018 signed a $1 billion plan to thin forests and clear out the tinderbox of California’s dead and dying trees. That measure came too late to prevent the devastation. But it opened the door to increased spending by utilities beyond limits set in the highly deliberative process known as their general rate cases, which determine what Californians pay. Newsom and the Legislature in 2019 created a $21 billion wildfire fund paid for by Wall Street investors and California ratepayers to help PG&E exit bankruptcy and protect utilities from being financially threatened by the wildfires they cause. The utilities cannot access the state’s $21 billion fund unless their wildfire plans are approved by the energy safety office. One problem, critics say, is that the safety plans are approved by one government entity while the spending to carry them out is approved by another. “We now have this very odd system,” said Lynch, who served on the utilities commission from 2000 through 2004. “The Office of Energy Infrastructure Safety reviews the plans, puts out guidelines, but then the (commission) still has to ratify the plans, so that the utilities can take money from their ratepayers.” On a temperate, clear morning in the Sierra Nevada foothills east of Placerville in October, a PG&E construction crew donned yellow jackets and safety helmets and went about the work of burying power lines along a narrow, wooded road. Overhead lines snaked through thick trees in this area — prime fire risk territory. The workers buried the lines in a trench that had been dug using a heavy piece of equipment designed to cut hard concrete and soil. Once those power lines are buried and activated, their risk of fires are all but eliminated. Burying lines in high-risk areas improves reliability amid rising wildfire risks and extreme weather, PG&E’s Singh said. Though it’s pricier up front, it eliminates the yearly expense of trimming trees and vegetation, which makes it a better, long-run value for customers, he said. “Underground is a no-brainer when you look at it from that lens,” Singh said. But the high cost and the time it takes to do the work has left some skeptical. The company has buried 800 miles of wires underground since 2021, and plans to bury more than 1,600 by the end of 2026. It aims to get the cost per mile down to $2.8 million by the end of 2026 from $3 million at the end of 2023. Michael Campbell, assistant deputy director of energy for the public advocates office, a state entity that represents utility customers, said PG&E should consider other means of preventing wildfire, like insulated wires, otherwise known as “covered conductors.” This can be deployed more quickly and at a lower cost, he said, and is effective when combined with operational techniques like fast trip settings and power safety shutoffs. “In some areas, (burying power lines) really is the correct approach to minimize risk. But it’s also very slow and very expensive, and so there’s a need to address safety in as many miles as quickly as possible, to reduce overall risk,” Campbell said. The utilities commission has taken a proof-of-concept approach: The commission scaled back PG&E’s plan to bury 2,000 miles through 2026 to 1,230. The commission approved installing covered conductors, or insulated power lines, over 778 miles. Lynch is skeptical of utilities and their big projects because they can profit from them, and Mark Toney, executive director of The Utility Reform Network, says too much spending is going unchecked. The sense of urgency following fires paved the way for the multi-billion surge in spending. The commission authorized PG&E, for instance, to spend $4.66 billion on wildfire costs from 2020 through 2022, but the company ultimately spent $11.7 billion and is seeking payment through utility bills, according to The Utility Reform Network. Audits of nearly $2.5 billion in 2019 and 2020 wildfire spending found some costs from PG&E , Southern California Edison and SDG&E may already have been covered by previously approved rates, or more documentation was needed to confirm they had not been covered. The utilities challenged many of the findings, saying they didn’t plan to claim some of the costs, and disputed the auditor’s conclusions as well as some of their calculations. In interviews with CalMatters, representatives for all three utilities said the process in place to oversee wildfire spending at the utilities commission was robust and thorough. Geraghty, of SDG&E, said the process is transparent, with public comment periods and hearings. Regarding critics who say wildfire prevention should be cheaper and faster, “every one of them had that voice, had that say, had that transparency through this entire process,” he said. Some expenses, such as operating costs, have an immediate impact on how much people pay in their bills. But other costs, such as long-term investments in insulating or burying power lines, are stretched out over years, meaning they add to bills for decades to come . Over time, these capital costs are growing due to factors like depreciation and the returns utilities are allowed to generate. This creates a compounding effect, meaning wildfire-related capital costs will take up an increasing share of what California customers are charged in the future. The burden of the rising bills is hitting many Californians hard. Roshonda Wilson, of Oakland, couldn’t afford to pay her power bill even though she said she watches television only after sunset, refrains from running unnecessary appliances and is hyper-aware of every energy-consuming action in her household. At one point PG&E turned her power off this year. “I couldn’t catch up,” she said. On the other hand, Moss — who has weathered not just the trauma of losing her home near Malibu but also the difficult process of rebuilding — says the expensive wildfire prevention work is critical to prevent more tragedies. “Even though (burying power lines) is costly and time-consuming, the cost and time of not doing it is starting to seem more devastating to a broader swath of people,” Moss said. Nevertheless, the rate hikes have alarmed climate activists who fear rising power bills in California may trigger a backlash against the state’s effort to switch to renewable energy, and influence other states, too. “The state, we fear, will start to lose the political will to keep pushing on,” said Mohit Chhabra, a senior scientist with the Natural Resources Defense Council. “The problem with that is not that California will be a few years late — we can handle that. But the impact on all the other states who are looking at California.” Natasha Uzcátegui-Liggett and Miguel Gutierrez Jr. contributed to this report.SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom and state lawmakers returned to the state Capitol on Monday to begin a special session to protect the state's progressive policies ahead of another Trump presidency. The Democratic governor, a fierce critic of President-elect Donald Trump, is positioning California to once again be the center of a resistance effort against the conservative agenda. He is asking his Democratic allies in the Legislature, who hold supermajorities in both chambers, to approve additional funding to the attorney general's office to prepare for a robust legal fight against anticipated federal challenges. Democratic Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel on Monday introduced legislation to set aside $25 million for legal fees to respond to potential attacks by the Trump administration on state policies regarding civil rights, climate change, immigration and abortion access. “While we always hope to collaborate with our federal partners, California will be ready to vigorously defend our interests and values from any unlawful action by the incoming Trump Administration,” Gabriel said in a statement. California sued the first Trump administration more than 120 times to various levels of success. “We’re not going to be caught flat-footed,” Newsom said at a recent news conference. Trump often depicts California as representing all he sees wrong in America. Democrats, which hold every statewide office in California and have commanding margins in the Legislature and congressional delegation, outnumber registered Republicans by nearly 2-to-1 statewide. Trump called the Democratic governor “Newscum” during a campaign stop in Southern California and has relentlessly lambasted the Democratic stronghold over its large number of immigrants in the U.S. illegally, homeless population and thicket of regulations. Trump also waded into a water rights battle over the endangered delta smelt , a tiny fish that has pitted environmentalists against farmers and threatened to withhold federal aid to a state increasingly under threat from wildfires. He also vowed to follow through with his campaign promise of carrying out the mass deportation of immigrants without legal status and prosecuting his political enemies. Before the special session began, state lawmakers swore in more than two dozen new members and elect leaders for the 2025 legislative session. Lawmakers voted to convene the special session largely along party lines. “This special session is about sticking up for Californians and for California values,” said state Sen. Scott Wiener, a Democrat representing San Francisco. “It is about ensuring that the president of the United States and his administration actually follow the law.” Hundreds of people also demonstrated around the Capitol on Monday to urge the Legislature to try to stop Trump's mass deportation plans . They carried banners that said “Not one cent for mass deportation” and “MAGA out of California.” “With the results of the presidential election, we need our state elected officials to use every tool and every resource they have available to them to protect our immigrant Californians,” protester Deborah Lee said. State Attorney General Rob Bonta said his office will protect the state’s immigration population, while Newsom last week unveiled a proposal to revive a rebate program for electric vehicle purchases if the incoming Trump administration eliminates a federal tax credit for people who buy electric cars. Newsom is also considering creating a backup disaster relief fund for the wildfire-prone state after Trump’s threats. Bonta announced legislation Monday aimed at bolstering reproductive rights in the state, including by allowing the attorney general to seek monetary penalties against local governments that infringe on those rights. The proposals are part of the state's efforts to safeguard against threats to abortion access after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade . Republican lawmakers blasted Newsom and his Democratic allies over the special session. State Sen. Kelly Seyarto, a Republican representing Murrieta in Southern California, said the special session proposal would make California have a more adversarial relationship with the federal government. “What we’re doing today is sending that exact message — that we are going to fight tooth and nail for everything. And you know what? That means they’re going to fight us tooth and nail for everything,” Seyarto said of the incoming Trump administration if the legislation gets approved. Legislators also are expected to spend the year discussing ways to protect dozens of laws expected to be targeted by the Trump administration, including one that has made the state a sanctuary for people seeking abortions who live in states where such practices have been severely limited. California, the nation’s most populous state, was the first to mandate that by 2035 all new cars , pickup trucks and SUVs sold in California be electric, hydrogen-powered or plug-in hybrids. The state also extends state-funded health care to all low-income residents regardless of their immigration status. Newsom hasn't provided details about what actions the lawmakers will consider but said he wanted funding in place before Trump's inauguration day, Jan. 20. The state spent roughly $42 million in litigation costs during the first Trump administration, officials said. California is projected to face a $2 billion budget deficit next year, with bigger shortfalls ahead. Gabriel, who sued the first Trump administration in 2017 when it tried to end a program to shield young immigrants from being deported, said lining up the funding now is “a wise investment." California successfully clawed back $57 million between 2017 and 2018 after prevailing in a lawsuit to block the Trump administration from putting immigration enforcement conditions on certain federal law enforcement grants. Another legal victory over the citizenship question in the 2020 census forced the federal government to return $850,000 to the state, according to the attorney general's office. During Trump’s first presidency, Democratic attorneys general banded together to file lawsuits over immigration, Trump’s travel ban for residents of Muslim countries, the environment, immigration and other topics. But Trump has one possible advantage this time around: He was aggressive in nominating conservative jurists to federal courts at all levels, including the Supreme Court. Associated Press journalists Haven Daley and Sophie Austin contributed to this report.Company powers down planned expansion of B.C. battery plant

Chuck Woolery, smooth-talking game show host of ‘Love Connection’ and ‘Scrabble,’ dies at 83

Tweet Facebook Mail American Airlines briefly grounded flights around the US overnight because of a technical problem just as the Christmas travel season kicked into overdrive and winter weather threatened more potential problems for those planning to fly or drive. Government regulators cleared American flights to get airborne about an hour after the Federal Aviation Administration ordered a national ground stop for the airline. The order, which prevented planes from taking off, was issued at the airline's request after it experienced trouble with its flight operating system, or FOS. The airline blamed technology from one of its vendors. READ MORE: Man sat and watched as woman burned on subway, US court told  A mass grounding of American Airlines flights had knock-on affects on travel in the US at the start of the Christmas travel season. (AP) As a result, flights were delayed across American's major hubs, with only 37 per cent of the airline's 3901 domestic and international flights leaving on time, according to Cirium, an aviation analytics company. Nineteen flights were cancelled. Dennis Tajer, a spokesperson for the Allied Pilots Association, a union representing American Airlines pilots, said the airline told pilots at 7am Tuesday ET (11pm Tuesday AEDT) that there was an outage affecting the FOS system. It handles different types of airline operations, including dispatch, flight planning, passenger boarding, as well as a plane's weight and balance data, he said. Some components of FOS have gone down in the past, but a systemwide outage is rare, Tajer said. Hours after the ground stop was lifted, Tajer said the union had not heard about any "chaos out there beyond just the normal heavy travel day." He said officials were watching for any cascading effects, such as staffing problems. READ MORE: Bill Clinton is out of the hospital after being treated for the flu  The brief grounding was due to a technical error. (AP) On social media, however, customers expressed frustration with delays that caused them or their family members to miss connecting flights. One person asked if American planned to hold flights for passengers to make connections, while others complained about the lack of assistance they said they received from the airline or gate agents. Bobby Tighe, a real estate agent from Florida, said he will miss a family Christmas Eve party in New York because his American flight was repeatedly delayed. The delays made him miss a connecting flight, leaving him the choice of going to his destination — Westchester, New York — on Christmas Day or taking another flight to Newark, New Jersey, that was scheduled to land Tuesday evening. He chose the latter. "I'm just going to take an Uber or Lyft to the airport I was originally supposed to go to, pick up my rental car and kind of restart everything tomorrow," Tighe said. He said his girlfriend was "going through the same exact situation" on her way from Dallas to New York. READ MORE: Bill Clinton is out of the hospital after being treated for the flu  Only 37 per cent of the airline's flights left on time. (AP) Cirium noted that the vast majority of flights were departing within two hours of their scheduled departure time. A similar percentage — 36 per cent — were arriving at their destinations as scheduled. Dallas-Fort Worth, New York's Kennedy Airport and Charlotte, North Carolina, saw the greatest number of delays, Cirium said. Washington, Chicago and Miami experienced considerably fewer delays. Meanwhile, the flight-tracking site FlightAware reported that 4058 flights entering or leaving the US, or serving domestic destinations, were delayed, with 76 flights cancelled. The site did not post any American Airlines flights on Tuesday morning, but it showed in the afternoon that 961 American flights were delayed. Amid the travel problems, significant rain and snow were expected in the Pacific Northwest at least into Christmas Day. Showers and thunderstorms were developing in the South. Freezing rain was reported in the Mid-Atlantic region near Baltimore and Washington, and snow fell in New York. It can be difficult to re-book a cancelled flight around the holidays. (AP) Because the holiday travel period lasts weeks, airports and airlines typically have smaller peak days than they do during the rush around Thanksgiving, but the grind of one hectic day followed by another takes a toll on flight crews. And any hiccups — a winter storm or a computer outage — can snowball into massive disruptions. That is how Southwest Airlines stranded two million travellers in December 2022, and Delta Air Lines suffered a smaller but significant meltdown after a worldwide technology outage in July caused by a faulty software update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike. Many flights during the holidays are sold out, which makes cancellations even more disruptive than during slower periods. That is especially true for smaller budget airlines that have fewer flights and fewer options for rebooking passengers. Only the largest airlines, including American, Delta and United, have "interline agreements" that let them put stranded customers on another carrier's flights. This will be the first holiday season since a Transportation Department rule took effect that requires airlines to give customers automatic cash refunds for cancelled or significantly delayed flights. Most air travellers were already eligible for refunds, but they often had to request them. Millions of people are expected to pass through US airports in the next 10 days. (AP) Passengers still can ask to get rebooked, which is often a better option than a refund during peak travel periods. That's because finding a last-minute flight on another airline tends to be expensive. An American spokesperson said Tuesday was not a peak travel day for the airline — with about 2000 fewer flights than the busiest days — so the airline had somewhat of a buffer to manage the delays. The groundings happened as millions of travellers were expected to fly over the next 10 days. The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen 40 million passengers through January 2. Airlines expect to have their busiest days on Thursday, Friday and Sunday. Many flights during the holidays are sold out, which makes cancellations more disruptive than during slower periods. Even with just a brief outage, the cancellations have a cascading effect that can take days to clear up. 'Do not travel': Every country Aussie authorities don't want you to go View Gallery About 90 per cent of Americans travelling far from home over the holidays will be in cars, according to AAA. "Airline travel is just really high right now, but most people do drive to their destinations, and that is true for every holiday," AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz said. Gasoline prices are similar to last year. The nationwide average Thursday was US$3.04 a gallon (about $1.29 a litre - one gallon is about 3.78 litres), down from US$3.13 (about $1.32 a litre) a year ago, according to AAA. Charging an electric vehicle averages just under US35c (56c) per per kilowatt hour, but varies by state. Transportation data firm INRIX says travel times on the nation's highways could be up to 30 per cent longer than normal over the holidays, with Sunday expected to see the heaviest traffic. Boston, New York City, Seattle and Washington are the metropolitan areas primed for the greatest delays, according to the company. DOWNLOAD THE 9NEWS APP : Stay across all the latest in breaking news, sport, politics and the weather via our news app and get notifications sent straight to your smartphone. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play .

(The Center Square) – Legislators in Washington, D.C., have taken a number of steps over the past few days to push for insurance and pharmaceutical reforms to be passed before the end of the year. On Wednesday, a bicameral group of Republican and Democrat lawmakers held a press conference discussing the need for pharmacy benefit manager reform to protect small pharmacies across the country and “save lives.” “Whether you are a Republican, Democrat, or an independent, we all want the same thing. We want accessible, affordable, quality health care,” said Rep. Buddy Carter, R-Ga. “We’re not here today to just discuss one bill or to discuss just one patient’s story. We're here because there's broad, bipartisan pharmacy benefit manager, or PBM, reform that is needed to save lives.” Pharmacy benefit managers are the middlemen responsible for managing the drug prices covered by health insurance plans. According to the Harvard Political Review , the problem with pharmacy benefit managers is that they “have vertically integrated with pharmacy chains and health insurers through massive conglomerates.” That then allows them to abuse their power to cut out small pharmacies and increase prices. Carter also signed a letter that was released last week calling on the Department of Justice to dig into the role pharmacy benefit managers played in the opioid epidemic. Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., Deborah Ross, D-N.C., and Cliff Benz, R-Ore., all joined him in signing that letter. “The opioid crisis has devastated communities in North Carolina and across the country, and PBMs may have fueled it by prioritizing profits over people,” Ross said on social media . “That’s why I joined a letter calling on the DOJ to investigate their role and hold these bad actors accountable.” The letter looked at recent reports on the largest pharmacy benefit managers, CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and OptumRx which state that they “colluded and conspired to steer patients towards OxyContin in exchange for $400 million.” OxyContin is a trade name for the narcotic oxycodone hydrochloride, a painkiller available by prescription only. This and the general “lack of transparency” is just one of the many complaints that legislators aired on Wednesday. “My colleagues who are joining me today, Democrats and Republicans ... all recognize that PBMs are decreasing the accessibility, the affordability, and therefore the quality of health care in America,” Carter said. “We have an opportunity, right now, to advance bipartisan legislation that increases reporting requirements, which would heighten transparency and shine a light on the opaque practices of these PBMs.” Carter was also joined by Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., who is leading the effort to get legislation passed in the U.S. Senate. “This year, we're losing about one pharmacy a day in America,” Lankford said. “We want leadership to be able to take this up and to bring it up in the end-of-year package ... Stop holding up legislation that is bipartisan, bicameral, and solving a problem that Americans need solved.”

California Democrats open special session to Trump-proof state priorities

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As Zhang Yimou delves into the depths of the human experience through the lens of Sophie Marceau's timeless beauty, he reveals the interconnectedness of all souls and the enduring power of love to transcend time and space. "The Goddess of Sophie Marceau" is a testament to the ability of cinema to bridge gaps between nations, languages, and cultures, uniting audiences in a shared experience of joy, sorrow, and ultimately, hope.Is Trump for real? Calls to seize Panama Canal, buy Greenland, stir up international concerns

In the video, several employees were seen forcing individuals to bend over and repeatedly striking them with what appeared to be a stick or rod. The victims, who were visibly in distress, could be heard crying out in pain. The netizen immediately alerted the authorities and shared the footage online, drawing strong condemnation from the public.Title: Farewell to China: Oscar Leaves the Field Amid Controversy

In conclusion, Cristiano Ronaldo's 1000-goal milestone is not just a testament to his incredible talent and work ethic but also a reflection of his unwavering passion for the game. As he continues to rewrite the record books and defy expectations, the football world eagerly anticipates what the future holds for this living legend. Whether he plays until he's 45 or beyond, one thing is certain: Cristiano Ronaldo's legacy will endure for years to come.The surge in Chinese assets can be largely attributed to the country's economic growth, technological advancements, and government policies aimed at stimulating investment. As a result, Chinese companies across various sectors have experienced rapid expansion, leading to an increase in their market capitalization and valuation.In conclusion, the resurgence of the false claim about a zoo hiring wild human actors for 500 yuan per day serves as a sobering reminder of the prevalence of fake news in today's digital age. Let us be mindful of the information we consume and share, and work together to ensure that truth and accuracy prevail in our online interactions.

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According to the latest data released, the top private equity funds with assets under management (AUM) exceeding one hundred billion RMB have showcased outstanding performance for the first eleven months of the year. Over 90% of their investment products have realized gains, demonstrating their strong capabilities in navigating the challenging market conditions.Kmart Australia shoppers go wild over new $35 item: 'OMG I need this in my life' Shoppers rush to get their hands on bargain mop from Kmart Australia READ MORE: Three cleaning gadgets from $15 that are flying out of Kmart stores By SHANIA OBRIEN FOR DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA Published: 20:23, 4 December 2024 | Updated: 22:03, 4 December 2024 e-mail 2 View comments Kmart shoppers have discovered a new cleaning 'must have' for every Australian household - and it's only $35. The dual section spin mop set has been praised for its convenient design and efficient technology of separating clean and dirty water. Shoppers cannot get enough of the easy cleaning solution to filthy floors and stained walls. With many in the spring cleaning trenches ahead of the festive season, the Kmart Australia's bargain buy has arrived at the right time. Mum and lifestyle influencer Corinne Mayfair recently shared a video of a Kmart haul. 'These are my favourite new cleaning and organisation finds,' she captioned in her clip. She used the mop and soapy water to clean her walls - which were left sparkling in minutes. 'I LOVE [the mop]. I'm obsessed with it. I thought I'd just try it out and ended up mopping every wall in our home,' she said. 'It separates dirty from clean water!' The dual section spin mop set ($35) has been praised for its convenient design and efficient technology of separating clean and dirty water The mop comes with a bucket and two microfibre pads, and replacement pads are available for purchase at Kmart. Its built-in brush helps agitate dirt and clean the mop between washes. Shoppers who had struggled to find a quality mop were impressed by the new product. 'I must check that mop out, it looks awesome,' one said, while another added: 'Oh my god, I need that.' 'The spin mop is so good,' a shopper raved. 'OMG I need this in my life,' another added. Customers also raved about the $99 Kmart spot cleaner after a mum used it to clean her couch - and shared the shocking amount of filth lurking in the material . Jen bought the product to clean her car but used it on her three-seater brown suede couch first to test it out. After running the vacuum along one seat, she was surprised by how quickly the water turned a murky brown. A Kmart shopper used a $99 spot cleaner on her couch and was lost for words by the amount of filth lurking in plain sight Hundreds of others were gobsmacked after she posted an image of the water on Facebook . She explained she'd had the couch for six years and never thoroughly cleaned it. 'Finally got my hands on the Kmart spot cleaner. Wanted one so I could clean my car but, thought I would have a play with it on my couch,' Jen wrote. Read More Beauty brand behind 'holy grail' item voted BEST in Australia stuns shoppers with glowing results 'I have one done one seat of my three seater and this is the outcome so far. Can't believe I've been sitting on this putrid couch.' She also used the Britex Low-Foam Upholstery Cleaner, which is available at Bunnings Warehouse, Coles and Harvey Norman. After cleaning the couch she attacked her carpet with the spot cleaner, followed by the car. 'I did my car today. The water was almost black. I'm going to give it a second going over tomorrow. Hopefully will have cleaner water come out,' Jens wrote. According to the description on the Kmart website, the product is designed to remove spots and stains from upholstery or carpets with ease thanks to its water spray function. So far it's received a 4.7 star rating and more than 100 reviews. According to the description on the Kmart website, the product is designed to remove spots and stains from upholstery or carpets with ease thanks to its water spray function So far it's received a 4.7 star rating and more than 100 reviews The Facebook post quickly caught the attention of other shoppers who were impressed by how well the product worked. 'I thought that was a coffee machine at first!' one woman admitted. 'Woah I could only imagine how bad mine would be!' another said. Another added: 'I did our couch with our recently purchased Bissell and it was the same. I was just as mortified as you! Will be getting regular cleans from now on!! One more customer raved about the affordable buy and said: 'Absolutely love mine, worth the $100!' Coles Facebook Share or comment on this article: Kmart Australia shoppers go wild over new $35 item: 'OMG I need this in my life' e-mail Add comment

NoneAlabama A&M fires football coach Connell Maynor after 7 seasons

646jili com LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 29, 2024-- AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) mourns the death of United States President Jimmy Carter, a champion in the human rights movement. In February 2023, Carter, then 98, entered hospice care at his Georgia home. He died there earlier today at 100, the longest-lived president in U.S. history, having recently marked his centennial birthday October 1 st. Carter and his wife Rosalynn brought worldwide attention—as well as their own physical labor—to the need for safe, affordable housing through their eponymous Carter Work Project in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity. Since 1984, the Carters reportedly helped house more than 4,300 families in 14 countries around the world. First Lady Rosalynn Carter passed away in November 2023 at the age of 96 during President Carter’s tenure in home hospice. The Carters also worked tirelessly to improve global public health. Their not-for-profit, nongovernmental organization, The Carter Center, has focused on fighting six preventable diseases, including malaria. In March 2024, the Center announced its success in nearly eradicating Guinea worm disease with only 14 cases reported in 2023. “We mourn and remember former President Jimmy Carter today as a human rights champion for his tireless, lifelong work on civil rights, social justice, health care, affordable housing, and more—far beyond the reach and accomplishment of most men and often done with far more humility than many other public figures of his stature,” said Michael Weinstein , founder and president of AHF, which also operates the housing advocacy group, Housing Is A Human Right ( HHR ). “Jimmy Carter had a fundamental understanding that housing is a human right and that human rights must be a cornerstone of American domestic and foreign policy. We offer our condolences to the entire Carter family as well as our gratitude to Mr. Carter for his decency, vision, and tenacity in helping those less fortunate.” AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the largest global HIV and AIDS organization, provides medical care and/or services to more that 2 million individuals in 47 countries worldwide in the US, Africa, Latin America/Caribbean, the Asia/Pacific Region, and Eastern Europe. To learn more about AHF, please visit our website , find us on Facebook , follow us on IG and Twitter , or subscribe to our “AHFter Hours” podcast. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241023544959/en/ CONTACT: Ged Kenslea, AHF Sr. Comms Dir. +1.323.791.5526gedk@aidshealth.orgW. Imara Canady, National Director, Communications & Community Engagement for AHF +1.770.940.6555Imara.Canady@aidshealth.org KEYWORD: CALIFORNIA GEORGIA EUROPE UNITED STATES UNITED KINGDOM NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: PUBLIC POLICY/GOVERNMENT INFECTIOUS DISEASES FOUNDATION PHILANTHROPY CELEBRITY CONSUMER ENTERTAINMENT RESIDENTIAL BUILDING & REAL ESTATE CONSTRUCTION & PROPERTY AIDS HEALTH OTHER PHILANTHROPY WHITE HOUSE/FEDERAL GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATIONS ADVOCACY GROUP OPINION SOCIAL ACTIVISM SENIORS SOURCE: AIDS Healthcare Foundation Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/29/2024 05:40 PM/DISC: 12/29/2024 05:39 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241023544959/en

Chinook Tyee Industry (CVE:XCX) Trading 21.6% Higher – Here’s Why

PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (PYR.V) (CVE:PYR) Stock Price Up 11% – Still a Buy?From guns to gadgets: Smartphones putting Maoists in Chhattisgarh on defensiveAP News Summary at 4:29 p.m. EST

Jimmy Carter, 100, gained Nebraska admirers during and after his presidencyFormer US president Jimmy Carter has died aged 100. Mr Carter, a former peanut farmer, served one term in the White House between 1977 and 1981, taking over in the wake of the Watergate scandal and the end of the Vietnam War. After his defeat by Ronald Reagan, he spent his post-presidency years as a global humanitarian, winning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. His death on Sunday was announced by his family and came more than a year after he decided to enter hospice care. He was the longest-lived US president. His son, Chip Carter, said: “My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights and unselfish love. “My brothers, sister and I shared him with the rest of the world through these common beliefs. “The world is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honouring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs.” World leaders have paid tribute to Mr Carter, including US President Joe Biden, who was one of the first politicians to endorse Mr Carter for president in 1976 and said the world had “lost an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian”. He said: “Over six decades, we had the honour of calling Jimmy Carter a dear friend. But, what’s extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well. “With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us. “He saved, lifted, and changed the lives of people all across the globe.” Irish President Michael D Higgins said Mr Carter was “a principled man who dedicated his life to seeking to advance the cause of peace across the world”. He added: “On behalf of the people of Ireland, may I express my sympathies to President Carter’s children and extended family, to President Joe Biden, to the people of the United States, and to his wide circle of colleagues and friends across the globe.” Mr Carter is expected to receive a state funeral featuring public observances in Atlanta and Washington DC before being buried in his home town of Plains, Georgia. A moderate democrat born in Plains in October 1924, Mr Carter’s political career took him from the Georgia state senate to the state governorship and finally, the White House, where he took office as the 39th president. His presidency saw economic disruption amid volatile oil prices, along with social tensions at home and challenges abroad including the Iranian revolution that sparked a 444-day hostage crisis at the US embassy in Tehran. But he also brokered the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel, which led to a peace treaty between the two countries in 1979. After his defeat in the 1980 presidential election, he worked for more than four decades leading the Carter Centre, which he and his late wife Rosalynn co-founded in 1982 to “wage peace, fight disease, and build hope”. Under his leadership, the Carter Center managed to virtually eliminate Guinea Worm disease, which has gone from affecting 3.5 million people in Africa and Asia in 1986 to just 14 in 2023. Mrs Carter, who died last year aged 96, had played a more active role in her husband’s presidency than previous first ladies, with Mr Carter saying she had been “my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished”. Earlier this year, on his 100th birthday, Mr Carter received a private congratulatory message from the King, expressing admiration for his life of public service.

The incoming US administration and the expected advancement of AI alone will surely impact workplaces in 2025. We wanted to know what leaders in business, research, and labor expect for the year ahead. Here are 11 predictions, edited for length and clarity: 2025 will be the battle of working from home. On one side will be the forces pushing for the five-day return to the office (RTO). Partly this is a backdoor layoff, and partly some CEOs see this as best for productivity. Amazon called for a five-day RTO in September 2024, and the suspicion is this was driven by a need to shrink headcount. [Elon] Musk and [Vivek] Ramaswamy have similar plans for the federal government. On the other side, employees have a hardening resolve to remain hybrid or remote. Expect to see a heavy exodus of top talent and folks in hot-areas like AI in five-day-RTO firms. My prediction is overall levels of working from home will remain flat at a macro level in 2025. But, below the stable aggregate figures, local battles will rage over hybrid policies, employees will quit, and CEOs will continue to debate this policy. In a sense, it’s going to be the Year of the Duck—stable on the surface but frantically paddling below. Chief customer officer, ServiceNow I see some parallels [between genAI and ] in that both have garnered a lot of attention. The key difference will be a faster pace of adoption and much bigger business impact. While early genAI pilots focused on case summarization, marketing copy generation, and email generation, agentic AI will deliver an exponential improvement to business operations including customer service, order management, and supply chain. Agentic AI won’t just assist—it will transform how work gets done by securely integrating with data, systems, and workflows across the enterprise. Specialized agents will handle end-to-end processes like onboarding and order management, automating routine tasks to enhance efficiency. With adoption set to outpace early genAI, businesses will need a ‘control tower”’ view to effectively manage and coordinate these agents. The technology is ready, and the shift is happening now. I believe we’ll see a growing emphasis on human-centric leadership skills: communication, empathy, relationship-building, self-awareness, and inclusivity. In a world that’s becoming increasingly automated, with fewer moments of human interaction, organizations will need to be intentional about fostering connection. Prioritizing human connection won’t just support stronger teams—it will be critical for business growth and the kind of innovation required to thrive in this new era. The child-care crisis and how it impacts the workforce, particularly when it comes to women, will become even more urgent in 2025. The already untenable situation will likely get worse as states run out of pandemic-era funds that were meant to shore up the patchwork child-care system. And with possible cuts to federal anti-poverty programs coming in the Trump administration, the lack of child care is likely to have dire consequences for low-wage workers. The child-care crisis—and the need for workplace flexibility to combine work and care responsibilities—will become political issues because parents are no longer the only ones feeling the pain. I predict that organizations, increasingly, will see how child care and flexible work are critical business imperatives for functioning, productive, and profitable workplaces, not as ‘nice to have’ accommodations or perks. And because no one business can solve a problem so large, policymakers will be forced to respond. All jobs are eventually going to experience changes from AI, but some roles will feel the first waves of big change as early as 2025. Entry-level work and people managers are two categories set to feel early shifts. For entry-level work, most of these roles today are built around these manual and time-consuming tasks like data entry, note-taking, and meeting scheduling. This current model won’t be sustainable in the age of AI, but that doesn’t mean we’ll simply do away with entry-level work. MIT has that workers with the least experience gain the most form AI tools on the job, so there’s a huge upside for companies to quickly get these junior employees working on high-impact projects in a way that wasn’t possible before. People managers are another job category under some serious pressure already, and AI is shaking things up even more. It’s unlikely we’re moving into a ‘boss-less’ future—employees today they rely on their managers and that a good manager makes the difference between staying at or leaving a company. In the future, the people manager role will be more like a sports coach—managing the energy of the team, regulating the emotions and stresses of the team, and understanding at an individual level what makes each person tick to help them do their best work. 2025 has the potential to be a transformative year for America’s workers and unions. Workers are exercising our power to stand up for our right to dignity and fair treatment in the workplace in ways we haven’t seen in generations. We’re seeing a resurgence in union organizing across industries. We expect more large-scale strikes to hold corporations accountable. As technology like artificial intelligence evolves and transforms work, workers will continue to demand a seat at the table to shape our futures. Labor is built on solidarity—and when seven in 10 Americans and nearly 90% of young people support unions, we know workers will continue to win. In 2025, AI-enabled teams will be more connected and collaborative than ever. AI will erase busywork and give teams the exact support they need to explore and execute big ideas, faster. This means the workplace will no longer be dominated by the loudest voices, but rather, the most creative minds. With a greater ability to execute creative ideas faster, we'll also experience a complete evolution of meetings. Meetings will no longer serve as a traditional, 30-minute ‘stand and deliver,’ but a time for collaboration, creativity, and complex problem-solving. This could result in an increase in meetings, but this time will be more focused, efficient, and creative—contributing to the deepened connections within teams as they move forward the most impactful work. In 2025, organizations will prioritize auditing their AI tools for bias, with a focus on improving algorithmic fairness and transparency. AI will also play a growing role in addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion challenges. Specifically, companies will use AI to identify biases in hiring, employee evaluations, and performance tracking, enabling targeted interventions to foster more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace cultures. Additionally, efforts will address disparities in how generative AI is accessed and used by different populations. I expect 2025 to be the year in which team meetings will be reimagined. Distributed teams that work from anywhere (WFA) will continue experiments that maximize the value of company and team retreats. Teams will also initiate experiments with agentic AI solutions participating in team meetings. Agentic AI will help workers take notes, highlight meeting segments and in some cases, will even communicate asynchronously on behalf of individuals. Agentic AI solutions will help workers save time on team meetings and will further accelerate their ability to WFA. Chief technology officer of GitLab In 2025, lawsuits will mount against LLM providers if they are unable to certify that copyrighted data was not used to train models. Companies who are adopting solutions will need to choose providers based on how transparent they are about data use and their guarantees for data protection. In response, AI solution providers will proactively incorporate data protection principles into models from the outset, ensuring ongoing compliance and mitigating the potential for future legal disputes. In 2025, one of the most transformative trends in the workplace will be the increasing adoption of personal AI coaches, agents, and assistants. These AI-driven tools will redefine what it means to have access to personalized support. Imagine 24/7 counsel, coaching, advice, or even just a meaningful conversation—available anytime, tuned to your unique needs. With such benefits come significant risks. The potential for over-dependence or even addiction to these digital companions is real. If not carefully managed, we risk creating a world where human connection is deprioritized in favor of interactions with machines designed to simulate it. To continue reading, subscribe to the Charter Briefing newsletter to stay ahead on the future of work. Continue reading by subscribing to about the future of work. If you’re already a Charter newsletter subscriber, this will only verify your email address.Iowa cornerback Jermari Harris has opted out of the remainder of the 2024 season in order to prepare for the NFL draft, according to a report by 247Sports.com . The 6-foot-1 sixth-year senior from Chicago has recorded 27 tackles, three interceptions and a team-high seven pass breakups in 10 games for the Hawkeyes this season. That includes a pick-6 in a 38-21 win over Troy earlier this season. Iowa (6-4, 4-3 Big Ten) plays at Maryland on Saturday before closing out its regular season at home against Nebraska on Nov. 29. The Hawkeyes are already bowl eligible, so Harris is likely opting out of three games in total. After missing the entire 2022 season due to an ankle injury, Harris was suspended for two games of the following season for his involvement in the gambling investigation into Iowa athletics. He later emerged as the Hawkeyes' top cornerback, earning the team's comeback player of the year award after compiling 42 tackles, one interception and eight pass breakups. Harris will finish his college career with 105 tackles and eight interceptions. --Field Level Media

BERKELEY, Calif. (AP) — Andrej Stojakovic converted 11 of 15 from the free throw line and scored 20 points as California held off a late rally to post an 83-77 win over Sacramento State in the Cal Classic tournament on Sunday. Cal came into its tournament without three starters, Jovan Blacksher Jr., DJ Campbell and BJ Omot and the Golden Bears earned back-to-back wins over Air Force and the Hornets. Stojakovic scored a career-high 21 points and freshman guard Jeremiah Wilkinson stepped up with career-best 23 points against the Falcons. Against Sacramento State, Wilkinson came off the bench to score 16 points. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.History will be kinder to Joe Biden than the pollstersHong Kong should start third medical school sooner amid Sino-US tensions: expert

India-EU Forge Pathway for Green Hydrogen Collaboration

People with dark spots and pigmentation can understand how tiresome it is to battle with uneven skin tone. It appears as hyperpigmentation, dark spots, redness or dullness. Several factors contribute to the formation of these uneven patches, including sun exposure, hormonal imbalances, acne scars, or aging. Environmental pollution and inflammation may also worsen skin discoloration. This is why including serums for uneven skin tone in your routine can be a good decision. Packed with active ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol, and alpha arbutin, the best serum for uneven skin tone may help to brighten and reduce dark spots. Regular use may also promote cell turnover, remove pigmented skin cells, and reduce melanin production. If you are planning to pick the right serum for uneven skin tone, here are a few suggestions for you. What causes an uneven skin tone? Uneven skin tone may occur when there are variations in skin color. The primary cause is excess melanin production, which can be triggered by sun exposure. Prolonged UV exposure may stimulate melanocytes, which may lead to dark spots or sunburn. Hormonal changes can also lead to conditions like melasma, which can cause dark patches. Additionally, acne scars and inflammation from skin conditions like eczema or rosacea can also leave behind pigmentation. Besides this, environmental factors like pollution and poor skincare habits may also exacerbate discolouration. In India, the high prevalence of melasma in sun-exposed, high-altitude areas highlights that skin disorders commonly observed in darker skin types are closely linked to UV exposure (Source: Indian Journal of Dermatology). Serum for uneven skin tone: 10 top choices for you The best serum for uneven skin tone in India may lead to a clearer complexion. Check out this list of top-rated serums for uneven skin tone that you may try: 1. La Roche-Posay La Roche Posay Niacinamide 10 Face Serum, Brightening And Anti-Aging Facial Serum With 10% Niacinamide, Reduces The Look Of Dark Spots, Discoloration, And Uneven Skin Tone La Roche-Posay Niacinamide 10 Face Serum features 10% niacinamide. It is designed to reduce the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone. This serum for uneven skin tone combines niacinamide with PHE resorcinol and hyaluronic acid to brighten, hydrate, and improve skin texture. The brand claims that this best serum for glowing skin is dermatologically tested, allergy-tested, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic. The fast-absorbing, velvety texture may rebalance skin, promoting a more radiant and even complexion with regular use. Specifications of La Roche-Posay Niacinamide 10 Face Serum: Skin type: Combination skin Benefits: Brightening Why choose: Effective for brightening, reducing dark spots, and balancing skin tone with niacinamide, resorcinol, and hyaluronic acid. Why avoid: It contains fragrance, which may irritate extremely sensitive skin. 2. VT COSMETICS CICA Reedle Shot 100 Essence, Daily Face Essence, Centella Complex, Hyaluronic Acid, Green Propolis Extract for All Skin Types 1.69Fl Oz (50ml) The VT Reedle Shot Essence uses micro-needle technology to deeply penetrate the skin, addressing fine lines, dullness, and uneven texture. This serum for uneven skin tone contains Centella Asiatica, known for its soothing and hydrating properties, making it ideal for sensitive skin. The essence may also help to rejuvenate and smooth the skin for a firmer, youthful appearance. Specifications of VT Reedle Shot Essence: Skin type: All Benefits: Smoothening Why choose: It uses micro-needle technology for deep skin rejuvenation and targets fine lines and uneven texture. Why avoid: The micro-needle technology may not be suitable for sensitive or compromised skin. 3. CETAPHIL Bright Healthy Radiance Brightening |Glow Serum | 30ml | GentleBright TechnologyTM with Antioxidant C and Advanced Peptide | Removes Dark Spots & Dullness CETAPHIL Bright Healthy Radiance Perfecting Serum contains GentleBright Technology with niacinamide, antioxidant C, and advanced peptides. This may be one of the best serums for dry skin as it claims to reduce dark spots and improve skin brightness. The brand claims that this clinically proven serum for uneven skin tone can enhance radiance in 14 days, and protect skin from environmental stress, including blue light and pollution. It is a hypoallergenic and fragrance-free product, which claims to address the five signs of skin sensitivity. Specifications of Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Brightening: Skin type: Sensitive Benefits: Brightening Why choose: It claims to target dark spots with GentleBright Technology and niacinamide, which makes it suitable for sensitive skin. Why avoid: It may take up to 14 days for visible results, which might not suit those seeking quicker improvements. ALSO READ: Best nebulizer masks: 6 top choices to breathe easily 4. Brinton Dexperts Vitamin C Serum with Green Tea & Ferulic Acid Brinton’s Vitamin C Serum is formulated with green tea and ferulic acid to help brighten skin and reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. The antioxidant-rich serum for uneven skin tone may hydrate and nourish the skin, restoring a healthy skin barrier. It also claims to minimize acne and pigmentation, leaving the skin smoother, clearer, and more radiant. Specifications of Brinton Vitamin C Serum: Skin type: Oily skin Benefits: Uneven skin tone Why choose: It contains vitamin C and green tea to brighten, reduce fine lines, and restore the skin's barrier. Why avoid: It may be too potent for very sensitive skin, causing irritation. 5. Jumiso All Day Vitamin Brightening & Balancing Facial Serum Jumiso All Day Vitamin Brightening & Balancing Facial Serum is a non-water-based product with 86.14% vitamin tree extract and 20,000 ppm of niacinamide. It claims to target uneven skin tone and help to brighten skin while maintaining balance. This lightweight serum for uneven skin may nourish and hydrate, improving skin radiance and promoting a healthy, glowing complexion with regular use. Specifications of Jumiso All Day Vitamin Brightening & Balancing Facial Serum: Skin type: Combination Benefits: Uneven skin tone Why choose: It claims to brighten the skin. This best vitamin C serum for face is suitable for those seeking a lightweight, vegan formula. Why avoid: The high concentration might irritate sensitive skin types. ALSO READ: Best mosquito repellent creams: 6 top choices to stay safe and itch-free 6. The Derma Co. x Dr.V Skin Renew Peptide Retinol Serum-Cream with Peptide & Retinol-30ml | 1% vv | Boosts Collagen|Brightens, Renews Skin to Give a Youthful Glow|Reduces Blemishes & Dark Spots The Derma Co. x Dr.V Skin Renew Peptide Retinol Serum is a cream-based product. It contains peptides and retinol, which may help to boost collagen production, enhance skin elasticity, and improve skin tone. This serum for uneven skin tone may address dark spots and pigmentation, providing a smoother, more youthful glow. The formula may help renew skin by encouraging cell turnover, revealing fresher, more even skin while reducing blemishes. Specifications of The Derma Co. x Dr. V Skin Renew Serum: Skin type: All Benefits: Remove dark spots Why choose: It may help to improve elasticity and reduce pigmentation, perfect for those wanting smoother, youthful skin. Why avoid: Contains retinol, which can be irritating for sensitive skin or during sun exposure. 7. COSRX Pure Vitamin C Serum with Vitamin E & Hyaluronic Acid, Brightening & Hydrating Facial Serum for Fine Lines, Uneven Skin Tone & Dull Skin, 0.7oz/20g, Korean Skincare (Vitamin C 23% Serum) The COSRX Vitamin C Serum contains 23% pure ascorbic acid, along with vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients may help to brighten skin, reduce wrinkles, and improve texture. This serum claims to target uneven skin tone, dullness, and fine lines, leaving the skin more radiant and hydrated. It may help to restore a youthful glow, with antioxidant benefits for overall skin health. Specifications of COSRX Vitamin C Serum: Skin type: All Benefits: Hydrating, brightening Why choose: Contains 23% pure Vitamin C to brighten skin, and reduce dark spots, and fine lines. Why avoid: Highly concentrated Vitamin C may irritate sensitive skin if not used cautiously. ALSO READ: Best kumkumadi face oils: 10 top choices to give your skin a natural glow 8. Olay Face Serum | Clear and Even Skin | Fights Dullness and Provides Radiant Glow| Normal, Oily, Dry, Combination Skin | Paraben and Sulphate Free (30ml, Niacinamide) Olay Niacinamide Serum is designed to address uneven skin tone by reducing dark spots and enhancing the skin’s natural radiance. Suitable for all skin types, it may penetrate deep into the skin to provide a healthy glow and clear, even complexion. The lightweight, non-greasy formula hydrates and improves skin texture, offering a smoother and more luminous look. Specification of Olay Niacinamide Serum: Skin type: All Benefits: Pore treatment Why choose: It claims to target 7 signs of uneven skin, reduces dark spots, brightens skin, and enhances radiance. Why avoid: Contains silicones, which could clog pores for acne-prone individuals. 9. Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum for Radiance with 60% Propolis & Niacinamide Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum with Propolis & Niacinamide contains 60% propolis extract and 2% niacinamide. This serum for uneven skin tone may help to improve skin texture by balancing oil production and reducing inflammation. It may also target enlarged pores and promote hydration. With BHA for gentle exfoliation, it claims to soothe and refine the skin, making it ideal for those with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin. Specifications of Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum: Skin type: Dry Benefits: Uneven skin tone treatment Why choose: It may soothe, brighten, and balance skin. Why avoid: Contains BHA, which may not be suitable for sensitive skin or those with a dry skin type. 10. Minimalist Dull Skin, Dark Spots & Uneven Tone Treatment 10% Vitamin C Face Serum | Formulated & Tested For Sensitive Skin with Ethyl Ascorbic Acid & PHA | All Skin Types| Brightening & Hydrating Formula for Men & Women | 30ml Minimalist’s Vitamin C serum is formulated with stable Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (10%) to brighten and reduce skin dullness and dark spots. Enhanced with Centella water, it may calm and hydrate the skin. The brand claims that this product is free from fragrance, silicones, sulfates, and parabens, which makes it suitable for all skin types. It also claims to offer antioxidant protection against pollution and sun damage for a healthy, glowing complexion. Specifications of Minimalist Vitamin C Serum: Skin type: All Benefits: Brightening Why choose: Uses stable Ethyl Ascorbic Acid to reduce dullness and dark spots. Why avoid: It may be less effective for those who require higher-potency Vitamin C formulas for quicker results. ALSO READ: Sesderma vitamin C serum vs its less expensive alternatives for radiant skin What are the benefits of using serum for uneven skin tone? 1. Brightens dull skin: Serum for uneven skin tone contains ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and licorice extract. They may help to brighten the complexion, reducing dullness and enhancing skin radiance for a more youthful glow. 2. Fades dark pots and hyperpigmentation: Face serum for dry skin contains active ingredients like vitamin C, alpha-arbutin, and retinol. They may help to target and fade dark spots, sun spots, and pigmentation from acne, improving overall skin tone and texture. 3. Evens skin tone: Top serum brands contain brightening agents that may work to balance skin tone by reducing areas of discoloration. 4. Improves skin texture: Many serums for oily skin contain exfoliating ingredients like AHAs or BHAs that help remove dead skin cells. This may promote a softer, more even skin surface. 5. Hydrates and plumps skin: Serum for open pores with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid provides moisture, which helps plump and firm the skin, reducing the appearance of uneven texture and fine lines. 6. Strengthens skin barrier: Serum for uneven skin tone with ingredients like niacinamide and peptides may strengthen the skin's protective barrier. It may also prevent sensitivity and irritation that can worsen uneven skin tone while promoting healthier, smoother skin. ALSO READ: Dot & Key vs Plum face serum for acne-prone skin: Which one can effectively tackle blemishes and spots Top three features of the best serum for uneven skin tone: Best serum for uneven skin tone Price Quantity Item form La Roche-Posay La Roche Posay Niacinamide 10 Face Serum 2,999 30 ml Drop VT COSMETICS Reedle Shot 2,429 50 ml Drop CETAPHIL Bright Healthy Radiance Brightening 2,115 30 ml Gel Brinton Dexperts Vitamin C Serum with Green Tea & Ferulic Acid 1,617 30 ml Liquid Jumiso All Day Vitamin Brightening & Balancing Facial Serum 1,596 30 ml Drop The Derma Co. x Dr.V Skin Renew Peptide Retinol Serum 1,518 30 ml Serum-cream COSRX Pure Vitamin C Serum 1,365 20 ml Serum Olay Face Serum 1,199 30 ml Serum Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum for Radiance with 60% Propolis & Niacinamide 1,050 30 ml Drop Minimalist Dull Skin, Dark Spots & Uneven Tone Treatment 10% Vitamin C Face Serum 664 30 ml Drop Similar articles for you: Hand cream buying guide: Tips to pick the right one for smooth and supple skin Shampoo for frizzy hair: Discover budget-friendly alternatives to Moroccanoil for similar benefits Moisturizer for sensitive skin: A comparison between Bioderma vs Cetaphil Frequently asked questions (FAQs) How should I choose the right serum for uneven skin tone? Look for serums with brightening ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, or alpha arbutin. Consider your skin type and choose a serum that addresses your specific concerns. What ingredients should I avoid in serums for uneven skin tone? Avoid serums with high alcohol content, synthetic fragrances, or harsh exfoliants, which can irritate the skin and worsen uneven skin tone, especially for sensitive skin types. Can I use a serum for uneven skin tone with other skincare products? Yes, but make sure the serum is compatible with other treatments. Avoid combining with strong actives like retinol or acids without consulting a dermatologist to prevent irritation. Should I choose a lightweight or rich serum for uneven skin tone? If you have oily or acne-prone skin, opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic serum. For dry skin, choose a richer serum with added hydration for better absorption. Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.

On the eve of his return to the court at the Brisbane International, has weighed in on tennis’ high-profile doping cases and criticised what he perceives as double standards in the sport. The former World No. 1, who is chasing a record 25th Grand Slam title at next month’s Australian Open, expressed his frustration Sunday at being “kept in the dark” regarding top-ranked Jannik Sinner’s doping case. “I’m not questioning whether [Sinner] took the banned substance intentionally or not,” Djokovic said at a press conference Sunday. “Some players with lower rankings are waiting for their case to be resolved for over a year. I’ve been really frustrated ... to see we’ve been kept in the dark for at least five months [on the Sinner case].” “The ATP hasn’t really talked in depth about it. Why have they kept that case away from the public? We see Simona Halep’s case on the WTA Tour, now Iga Swiatek’s case,” Djokovic said. “It’s not a good image for our sport. I’m just questioning the way the system works and why certain players aren’t treated the same as others,” he added. Djokovic also spoke glowingly about one of his old rivals, , who has now teamed up with the Serbian for the Australian Open. “He has a unique perspective on my game as one of the greatest rivals I’ve had. He knows the pros and cons of my game. He played until recently, so he knows all the other best players currently in the world and the weaknesses and strengths in their game. He’s very meticulous, very dedicated,” he said. Djokovic also stated that he intends to play at the very top level for the foreseeable future. “The way I’m feeling today, I still think that I can go strong for years to come,” said Djokovic.Libra - (23rd September to 22nd October) Daily Horoscope Prediction says, Morals guide you Be sincere in love and you’ll see the output. Overcome the official pressure with a cool mindset. Resolve the monetary issues and health is normal today. Look for pleasant moments in the relationship and ensure you show commitment at work. No major financial issues will impact the day. You may also be good in terms of health today. Libra Love Horoscope Today Do not bring in egos between you and the lover. Keep a distance from the ex-lover as this can steam up things in your current relationship. Avoid fracas in the love affair and keep the lover in good spirits. Express the emotions freely and your lover prefers you to stay together. You may find a new interesting person and when you feel like proposing, go ahead with the decision. For married Libras, the chances of getting conceived are high. Libra Career Horoscope Today Stay away from office politics and ensure you stay in the good book of the management. Some sales persons will travel for job reasons while businessmen will succeed in raising funds through promoters. Government employees and bankers can expect a change in the office. Marketing and sales persons will find fortune today which will also result in a hike in the salary. Your communication skills will work out in crucial discussions and negotiations with clients. A good business developer should also come out with innovative ideas today. Students need to be careful while attending examinations. Libra Money Horoscope Today You are prosperous today as money will come in from different sources. Have a proper financial plan and a professional can help you here. Some females will be fortunate in speculative business. You may succeed in meeting professional expectations that will bring in good money. The first part of the day is also good to try luck in real estate. You may also need to provide financial help to a sibling or a friend. Libra Health Horoscope Today No major health issue will trouble you. Despite you having a cold or viral fever, things will be normal. You may develop headaches or body aches as well. Seniors will complain about breathing issues and may require medical attention. Pregnant females need to avoid adventure sports. Libra Sign Attributes Strength: Idealist, Socially presentable, Aesthetic, Charming, Artsy, Generous Weakness: Uncertain, Lazy, Non-interventionist Symbol: Scales Element: Air Body Part: Kidneys & Bladder Sign Ruler: Venus Lucky Day: Friday Lucky Color: Brown Lucky Number: 3 Lucky Stone: Diamond Libra Sign Compatibility Chart Natural affinity: Gemini, Leo, Sagittarius, Aquarius Good compatibility: Aries, Libra Fair compatibility: Taurus, Virgo, Scorpio, Pisces Less compatibility: Cancer, Capricorn By: Dr. J. N. Pandey Vedic Astrology & Vastu Expert Website: www.astrologerjnpandey.com E-mail: djnpandey@gmail.com Phone: 91-9811107060 (WhatsApp Only)

Fine Art Insurance Market Detailed Strategies, Competitive Landscaping and Developments for next 5 years 12-18-2024 08:27 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: AMA Research & Media LLP The latest study released on the global 'Fine Art Insurance' market by AMA Research evaluates market size, trend, and forecast to 2030. The 'Fine Art Insurance' market study covers significant research data and proofs to be a handy resource document for managers, analysts, industry experts and other key people to have ready-to-access and self-analyzed study to help understand market trends, growth drivers, opportunities and upcoming challenges and about the competitors. Get free access to Sample Report in PDF Version along with Graphs and Figures @ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/sample-report/106165-global-fine-art-insurance-market?utm_source=OpenPR/utm_medium=Rahul Some of the key players profiled in the study are: Progressive Corporation (United States), CPIC (China), Chubb Limited (United States), Allianz SE (Germany), Ping An Insurance (China), Assicurazioni Generali (Italy), AXA (France), AIG (United States), Aon plc (United Kingdom), Zurich Insurance Group (Switzerland) Many insurance companies insure works of art, but the choice of insurance depends on the size and value of the art collection, as well as the type of coverage that is required. Fine arts is the art that was primarily developed for aesthetics or beauty and is different from decorative or applied arts, which must also fulfill a practical function, such as ceramics or most metalwork. In the aesthetic theories developed in the Italian Renaissance, the supreme art was that which allowed the full expression and display of the artist's imagination without being limited by any practical considerations, such as those involved in the manufacture and decoration of a teapot play a role. Even within the visual arts, there was a hierarchy of genres based on the amount of creative imagination, with history painting being ranked higher than still life. Anyone who has an “insurable interest” in the specified work of art can insure this. The United Kingdom Fine Art Insurance market was valued at USD 378.54 Million in 2020 and is expected to reach USD 627.01 Million by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 6.51% during 2021-2026. May 2021, Aspen Insurance Holdings Limited has announced the launch of its new global brand identity. The company said its new brand emphasised its mission to bring “clarity from complexity,” and represents a milestone in the companyâ€TMs ongoing transformation to become a leading specialty reinsurer. Keep yourself up-to-date with latest market trends and changing dynamics due to COVID Impact and Economic Slowdown globally. Maintain a competitive edge by sizing up with available business opportunity in Fine Art Insurance Market various segments and emerging territory. Influencing Market Trend •Growing Awareness About the Fine Art Insurance Market Drivers •Growing Interest in Art Works Such as Sculptures, Photographs, and Paintings •Rising Emphasis on Art Development Opportunities: •Increasing Number of Investors in Fine Art •Emerging Talents in Art Works Challenges: •Stiff Competition Among the Major Players Analysis by Type (Property Insurance, Title Insurance), Application (Private, Commercial), Damage Covered (Loss of Art, Scratches, Stains), Artwork Type (Drawing, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture), End-User (Private Collectors, Art Dealers & Galleries) Have Any Questions Regarding Global Fine Art Insurance Market Report, Ask Our Experts@ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/enquiry-before-buy/106165-global-fine-art-insurance-market?utm_source=OpenPR/utm_medium=Rahul The regional analysis of Global Fine Art Insurance Market is considered for the key regions such as Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, Latin America and Rest of the World. North America is the leading region across the world. Whereas, owing to rising no. of research activities in countries such as China, India, and Japan, Asia Pacific region is also expected to exhibit higher growth rate the forecast period 2024-2030. October 2021, Tokio Marine Highland, the Chicago-based property and casualty underwriting agency, announced it has launched fine art insurance for personal and commercial risks, which further enhances its suite of specialty risk management solutions. June 2021, Former AXA XL Executive Jonathan Beck and Underwriter Richard Spurrier are set to launch a new Specialty Insurance Cell focused on land-based and maritime Kidnap and Ransom, Fine Art, Jewellery, and Classic Car risks. Table of Content Chapter One: Industry Overview Chapter Two: Major Segmentation (Classification, Application and etc.) Analysis Chapter Three: Production Market Analysis Chapter Four: Sales Market Analysis Chapter Five: Consumption Market Analysis Chapter Six: Production, Sales and Consumption Market Comparison Analysis Chapter Seven: Major Manufacturers Production and Sales Market Comparison Analysis Chapter Eight: Competition Analysis by Players Chapter Nine: Marketing Channel Analysis Chapter Ten: New Project Investment Feasibility Analysis Chapter Eleven: Manufacturing Cost Analysis Chapter Twelve: Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers Read Executive Summary and Detailed Index of full Research Study @ https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/reports/106165-global-fine-art-insurance-market?utm_source=OpenPR/utm_medium=Rahul Highlights of the Report • The future prospects of the global Fine Art Insurance market during the forecast period 2024-2030 are given in the report. • The major developmental strategies integrated by the leading players to sustain a competitive market position in the market are included in the report. • The emerging technologies that are driving the growth of the market are highlighted in the report. • The market value of the segments that are leading the market and the sub-segments are mentioned in the report. • The report studies the leading manufacturers and other players entering the global Fine Art Insurance market. Contact Us: Craig Francis (PR & Marketing Manager) AMA Research & Media LLP Unit No. 429, Parsonage Road Edison, NJ New Jersey USA - 08837 Phone: +1(201) 7937323, +1(201) 7937193 sales@advancemarketanalytics.com About Author: AMA Research & Media is Global leaders of Market Research Industry provides the quantified B2B research to Fortune 500 companies on high growth emerging opportunities which will impact more than 80% of worldwide companies' revenues. Our Analyst is tracking high growth study with detailed statistical and in-depth analysis of market trends & dynamics that provide a complete overview of the industry. We follow an extensive research methodology coupled with critical insights related industry factors and market forces to generate the best value for our clients. We Provides reliable primary and secondary data sources, our analysts and consultants derive informative and usable data suited for our clients business needs. The research study enables clients to meet varied market objectives a from global footprint expansion to supply chain optimization and from competitor profiling to M&As. This release was published on openPR.Courtney Frazer | (TNS) Bankrate.com Exchanging currency is vital to international travel, whether you’re visiting for leisure or business. Understanding the nuances of currency exchange can help you avoid costly mistakes and make the most of your travel budget. Before you exchange money, you should know how to choose the right place to exchange your money, time your transactions for the best rates and estimate the money exchange fee. Why knowing about currency exchange matters Currency exchange involves converting one country’s money into another’s. Because currencies have different values from country to country, exchange rates fluctuate based on factors like political stability, economic performance and global market conditions. Without proper knowledge of currency exchange, travelers risk losing money on unfavorable exchange rates, excessive fees and even fraudulent practices. It’s important to know how currency exchange works and where to do money exchanges so you can get the best deal. Currency exchange fees Exchanging money abroad often comes with various fees, so it’s important to understand what you might encounter. Flat fees Some exchange providers charge a flat fee per transaction. These can make smaller exchanges expensive relative to the amount you’re converting. Always ask about any flat fees in advance, and consider exchanging larger sums to minimize the impact of this fee. Percentage fees Many currency exchange providers charge a percentage-based fee on the total amount exchanged. This fee structure can become costly if you’re exchanging large amounts of money, so compare percentage-based fees before making any decisions. ATM withdrawal fees If you’re withdrawing money from an ATM abroad, your home bank and the foreign bank may charge withdrawal fees. Some banks refund these fees, while others may partner with international banks to provide fee-free withdrawals. Before traveling, check with your bank to understand what ATM fees you might face and whether they offer any reimbursement options. Foreign transaction fees Foreign transaction fees are often charged when using credit or debit cards abroad. Depending on the card issuer and payment network, these fees can range from 1% to 3% of the transaction amount. Many travel-focused credit cards offer no foreign transaction fees, which can help you save money when making purchases abroad. Check your card’s terms and conditions before you travel to avoid surprises. If your card charges foreign transaction fees, consider limiting its use and opting for other methods, like cash or prepaid travel cards. Best places to exchange currency Not all currency exchange options are equal, especially for travelers. Some places offer better rates and lower money exchange fees, while others provide more convenience. Here’s a breakdown of the most common currency exchange options. Banks and credit unions Banks and credit unions are generally the best money exchange options, offering competitive exchange rates and transparent fees. Many banks provide foreign currency services for their account holders, and some even offer currency at a better rate when you order it in advance. If you have a major bank account, the bank may offer international ATM withdrawals with little to no fees. Banks tend to have the most secure exchange process, so you can avoid the high fees and markups that are common at airport exchange booths. Currency exchange kiosks Currency exchange kiosks, often found at airports and tourist destinations, are convenient but have significant drawbacks. They frequently offer lower exchange rates and higher fees, taking advantage of travelers who need quick cash. If you need to use a currency exchange bureau, only exchange a small amount to cover immediate needs and seek out better rates at a local bank or through an ATM once you reach your destination. Always check the exchange rate and fees before completing any transaction at these kiosks to avoid unnecessary charges. ATMs abroad Using ATMs to withdraw local currency in your destination country is one of the most convenient ways to get cash while traveling. Many banks are part of global ATM networks, allowing you to withdraw money with minimal fees if you use ATMs associated with their partner banks. However, it’s important to check with your bank ahead of time to understand what fees may apply to international withdrawals. When using ATMs abroad, stick to machines from reputable banks and avoid independent ATMs found in tourist-heavy areas or small shops. These often have higher fees and less favorable exchange rates. It’s also a good idea to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid having your card frozen for suspicious activity. Prepaid travel cards Prepaid travel cards offer an excellent solution for travelers who want to manage currency exchange with ease. These cards allow you to load multiple currencies before you travel and lock in exchange rates to avoid rate fluctuations while abroad. Prepaid travel cards can be used like regular debit or credit cards but with the added benefit of lower foreign transaction fees. They also help limit spending, as you can only use the funds preloaded onto the card. However, be aware of hidden fees such as inactivity, ATM withdrawal or reloading fees. Common currency exchange mistakes When exchanging currency for travel, it’s easy to fall into traps that result in unnecessary expenses. Here are some common mistakes travelers make and how to avoid them. 1. Exchanging money at airports and hotels While airports and hotels may be convenient places to exchange money, they often have the worst exchange rates and highest fees. Airport kiosks, in particular, are notorious for inflating rates, sometimes marking them up by as much as 10% compared to what you’d find at a local bank or ATM. To avoid these high costs, exchange a small amount of money before your trip to cover immediate expenses like transportation. Once you arrive at your destination, use ATMs or banks for more favorable rates. 2. Using dynamic currency conversion Dynamic currency conversion (DCC) allows you to pay in your home currency when using a credit or debit card abroad. While this may seem convenient, it usually comes with a much worse exchange rate and additional hidden fees. Whenever possible, always opt to pay in the local currency of your destination to avoid unfavorable rates. DCC also gives merchants more control over the exchange rate, meaning they could use a rate that benefits them more than you. When paying with a card abroad, always make sure you’re being charged in the local currency to get the most accurate rate. 3. Timing your exchange poorly Exchange rates fluctuate daily based on global market conditions. If you know you’ll need to exchange a large sum of money, it pays to keep an eye on exchange rates before your trip. Use tools to track exchange rates and exchange your money when the rate is in your favor. For travelers planning ahead, some banks and online services allow you to lock in exchange rates before traveling, helping you avoid losses due to unfavorable fluctuations during your trip. How to maximize savings on currency exchange while traveling When traveling abroad, currency exchange fees can quickly eat into your budget. You can use certain strategies to help you save, avoid common fees and make the most of your money while exploring new destinations. 1. Plan ahead for international trips Before heading overseas, research your destination’s currency and exchange rate options. Many banks allow you to order foreign currency ahead of time, saving you from the poor exchange rates and high fees at airports or in tourist-heavy areas. If your bank offers international ATM withdrawal with low fees, consider using this option to access local currency while traveling. Financial institutions sometimes offer special travel accounts or debit cards with reduced fees for foreign transactions. Check with your bank to see if they offer international-friendly options that can help you save money while abroad. 2. Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees Credit cards that offer no foreign transaction fees can be a great asset when traveling internationally. These cards often offer competitive exchange rates, and some even provide travel rewards or cash back on purchases made abroad. Using a credit card for most of your international purchases can help protect you from currency exchange fees and fraud. 3. Limit currency exchange at high-fee locations Related Articles Travel | 8 last-minute Christmas vacations to book in the US Travel | California’s sunny Huntington Beach makes a great weekend getaway Travel | Top travel destinations for 2025 include a real-life Land of the Lotus Eaters Travel | Strange job alert: This Bay Area lighthouse is looking for a new keeper Travel | New York state highlights can’t-miss holiday sites and attractions When traveling, try to avoid exchanging currency at locations that charge high fees, like airports, hotels or currency exchange kiosks. These places often inflate exchange rates and charge large commissions, reducing the value of your money. Instead, stick to local banks or ATMs for better rates and lower fees. If you have to exchange currency at one of these places, try to exchange only what you need immediately and find a better location later. The bottom line Currency exchange is an essential part of international travel, and getting it right can save you a lot of money. By planning ahead, avoiding high-fee locations and choosing the right method for exchanging money, you can stretch your travel budget further and minimize unnecessary costs. When traveling internationally, avoid airport kiosks and hotel exchange desks, opt for ATMs and reputable banks and consider using prepaid travel cards or credit cards with no foreign transaction fees to simplify your currency management. With a little preparation, you’ll be able to get the most out of your money while exploring the world. (Visit Bankrate online at bankrate.com.). ©2024 Bankrate.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.Airbnb has implemented stricter measures ahead of New Year’s Eve 2025 to curb unauthorised and disruptive parties at its rental properties. While some praise the efforts, others find the changes frustrating, labelling them restrictive and ‘boring.’ Airbnb’s updated anti-party rules: What you need to know Airbnb’s updated policies include the use of AI-driven technology to flag potentially high-risk bookings. Here’s how it works: Most Read on Euro Weekly News Richard Gere on living in Spain: A love story with no complaints Honda, Nissan, and Mitsubishi to merge Breaking news: Shooting in Benalmadena Short stays restricted : One- to three-night bookings of entire homes are flagged as high-risk based on factors like the booking’s timing, proximity to the guest’s current location, and length of stay. Mandatory anti-party declaration : Guests must agree to Airbnb’s anti-party terms, confirming they understand unauthorised gatherings are prohibited and violating this could lead to account suspension or removal. The policies, first trialled in 2020, continue to expand globally, including in the UK, North America, France, Spain, and Australia. Airbnb claims the measures helped deter over 74,000 bookings worldwide last New Year’s Eve, with 7,800 reservations blocked or redirected in the UK alone . Mixed Reactions: Frustration and Support for Airbnb’s rules The rule changes have sparked mixed reactions online. Critics argue the restrictions unfairly penalise genuine renters: TikTok user @beekkcc1989 expressed frustration: “I tried to book for my Christmas shifts because of no transport, and it flagged me.” Others, like @TechnoBabe, noted, “Another reason to just book a hotel.” Supporters, however, appreciated the peace of mind the rules bring: “Imagine being a neighbour with kids and having to deal with loud parties,” wrote one user. Another noted: “I’ve seen rentals completely trashed after parties. These rules make sense.” Enhanced safety measures: Airbnb’s new initiatives Airbnb has also equipped hosts and communities with additional tools to address party risks: Noise sensors : Free for hosts to detect excessive noise levels. Neighbourhood support line : Allows residents to report suspected parties at Airbnb properties. 24-hour safety line : Available for both hosts and guests to report incidents or unauthorised gatherings. Amanda Cupples, Airbnb’s General Manager for the UK and Northern Europe, stated: “We’re committed to supporting hosts and their communities. While such issues are rare, these measures aim to ensure everyone can celebrate the holidays with added reassurance.” As Airbnb continues its mission to strike a balance between hosting and neighbourhood harmony, these updates signal a shift towards safer, more controlled rentals. While some lament the restrictions, others believe they are a necessary step to ensure responsible use of shared spaces.jili 646 casino login 。

WASHINGTON — Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said her agency will need to start taking “extraordinary measures,” or special accounting maneuvers intended to prevent the nation from hitting the debt ceiling , as early as January 14, in a letter sent to congressional leaders Friday afternoon. "Treasury expects to hit the statutory debt ceiling between January 14 and January 23," she wrote in a letter addressed to House and Senate leadership, at which point extraordinary measures would be used to prevent the government from breaching the nation's debt ceiling — which was suspended until Jan. 1, 2025. The department in the past deployed what are known as “extraordinary measures” or accounting maneuvers to keep the government operating. Once those measures run out, the government risks defaulting on its debt unless lawmakers and the president agree to lift the limit on the U.S. government’s ability to borrow. "I respectfully urge Congress to act to protect the full faith and credit of the United States," Yellen said. FILE - U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen speaks during a visit to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) in Vienna, Va., on Jan. 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File) The news came after Democratic President Joe Biden signed a bill into law last week that averted a government shutdown but did not include Republican President-elect Donald Trump’s core debt demand to raise or suspend the nation’s debt limit. Congress approved the bill only after a fierce internal debate among Republicans over how to handle Trump's demand. “Anything else is a betrayal of our country,” Trump said in a statement. After a protracted debate in the summer of 2023 over how to fund the government, policymakers crafted the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which included suspending the nation's $31.4 trillion borrowing authority until Jan. 1, 2025. Notably however, Yellen said, on Jan. 2 the debt is projected to temporarily decrease due to a scheduled redemption of nonmarketable securities held by a federal trust fund associated with Medicare payments. As a result, “Treasury does not expect that it will be necessary to start taking extraordinary measures on January 2 to prevent the United States from defaulting on its obligations," she said. The federal debt stands at about $36 trillion — after ballooning across both Republican and Democratic administrations. The spike in inflation after the COVID-19 pandemic pushed up government borrowing costs such that debt service next year will exceed spending on national security. Republicans, who will have full control of the White House, House and Senate in the new year, have big plans to extend Trump's 2017 tax cuts and other priorities but are debating over how to pay for them. Many consumers may remember receiving their first credit card, either years ago in a plain envelope, or months ago from a smartphone app. Still other consumers may remember their newest card, maybe because it's the credit card they're now using exclusively to maximize cash back rewards or airline miles. But for most consumers, there's also a murky in-between where they add, drop and generally accumulate credit cards over time. Over the years, consumers may close some credit card accounts or leave some of their credit cards dormant as a backup form of payment, or perhaps left forgotten in a desk drawer. In the data below, Experian reveals the changes in consumers wallets in recent years. U.S. consumers, on average, carry fewer cards today than they did in 2017, when the typical wallet held 4.2 active credit cards. As of the third quarter (Q3) of 2023, consumers carried 3.9 cards on average. This average is up slightly since the early days of the pandemic, when consumers reduced their average credit card debt and number of accounts as the economy slowed. As Experian revealed earlier this year, credit card balances are still climbing, despite (and partially because of) higher interest rates. And while average balances are increasing, they are spread across fewer accounts than in recent years. Alternative financing—including buy now, pay later plans for purchases—may account for at least some of this discrepancy, as consumers gravitate toward these newer financing methods. In general, residents of higher-population states tend to carry more credit cards than those who live in states with fewer and smaller population centers. Nonetheless, the difference between the states is relatively small. Considering that the national average is around four credit cards per consumer, the four states with the fewest cards per consumer (Alaska, South Dakota, Vermont and Wyoming) aren't appreciably different, with "only" about 3.3 credit cards per consumer. Similarly, the four states on the higher end of the scale where consumers have 4.2 or more credit cards are Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, New Jersey and Rhode Island. The disparity in average credit card counts is more apparent when the population is segmented by age, thanks in part to Generation Z, many of whom have yet to receive their first credit card. The average number of credit cards for these consumers was two, less than half of what older generations keep on hand. The average number of credit cards held by each generation follows the familiar pattern seen in credit card balances, which tend to increase in a consumer's middle age. It's not surprising that the number of credit card accounts follows a similar climb throughout young adulthood and middle age, then drops off in the retirement years. No matter how many credit cards you may have at the moment, keep in mind that the number of accounts has little if any bearing on one's FICO Score. Far more important is how consumers manage those accounts. This is easily demonstrable by quickly stepping through some of the factors that affect your credit scores . Longer credit histories do tend to have a positive effect on a consumer's credit score, but it's not something you can rush. Adhering to on-time payments and managing amounts owed will go far in improving credit scores, even absent a lengthy credit history. While accounts closed in good standing remain on your credit report for 10 years, canceling your oldest credit card account still has the potential to shorten your credit history when it is eventually removed. The impact of its removal depends on any other active credit cards in your credit file. Ultimately, the number of cards a particular individual carries is a personal decision. Justifications can be found for carrying a travel rewards card, a cash back card, a balance transfer card, a card for business transactions and other types of credit cards that other consumers may not have either the need or qualifications for. However, keeping track of numerous credit cards, whether or not a consumer is actively using all of them, can be a mentally taxing exercise. Not only that, credit card fees can add up and dull the benefit of carrying several credit cards. Organized consumers can benefit greatly from a wallet full of specialized cards, but for those seeking a more zen-like financial future, some judicial pruning may be in order. Methodology: The analysis results provided are based on an Experian-created statistically relevant aggregate sampling of our consumer credit database that may include use of the FICO Score 8 version. Different sampling parameters may generate different findings compared with other similar analysis. Analyzed credit data did not contain personal identification information. Metro areas group counties and cities into specific geographic areas for population censuses and compilations of related statistical data. This story was produced by Experian and reviewed and distributed by Stacker Media. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.

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Cryptocurrency has gone from a niche tech experiment to a financial powerhouse. By now, we all know someone who’s made a fortune—or a not-so-great decision—investing in crypto. With 2025 just around the corner, the big question is: which cryptos are worth betting on? The market’s full of opportunities, from established giants to up-and-coming tokens with serious potential. One of the most intriguing players in this space is Qubetics ($TICS). Unlike many of its predecessors, Qubetics is tackling real-world problems head-on, offering solutions that make crypto useful for everyday transactions. Whether it’s managing digital assets, making payments, or ensuring stable transactions, Qubetics is leading the charge with innovative technology. Let’s break down four promising cryptos to consider for 2025. 1. Qubetics ($TICS): Redefining Crypto Usability Qubetics isn’t just a token—it’s a movement. This crypto is all about simplifying the way we use digital assets, making them as easy to manage as your bank account. Think about how hard it can be to explain crypto to your grandma. Qubetics is changing that, building a system so intuitive, even your tech-phobic uncle could use it. Its standout feature? The Qubetics non-custodial multi-chain wallet. This thing is slick. It works seamlessly with Apple Pay and Google Pay, letting you use your crypto like cash. Plus, it has a built-in smart contract conversion mechanism, automatically turning your digital assets into fiat at the point of sale. So, no more sweating over price volatility—just smooth, stable transactions every time. Here’s the kicker: Qubetics is in its 14th presale stage and has already sold over 379 million tokens to 12,100+ holders, raising $7.9 million. You can snag $TICS at $0.0377, but don’t wait too long. The price is set to jump 10% this weekend when the 15th stage kicks off. If you’re searching for the best crypto presale to jump into, Qubetics might be your golden ticket. 2. Avalanche (AVAX): Scalable and Eco-Friendly Avalanche has made a name for itself as one of the fastest and most eco-friendly blockchains out there. With its unique consensus mechanism, it can process thousands of transactions per second without breaking a sweat. For developers looking to build decentralized applications (dApps), Avalanche is a dream come true. But it’s not all rainbows and sunshine. Analysts have flagged potential challenges for AVAX, noting that investor sentiment could slow its growth despite strong fundamentals. However, its ability to support subnets—custom blockchains tailored to specific use cases—gives it a major edge over competitors. So, should you add AVAX to your portfolio? If you’re playing the long game, Avalanche’s scalability and innovation make it a solid contender. It’s a great pick for those who believe in the future of DeFi and NFTs. 3. Aptos (APT): The New Kid with Big Moves If you’re into speed, Aptos is the Ferrari of blockchains. This Layer-1 blockchain is handling over 3.7 million daily transactions, and its tech is designed to scale without sacrificing security or decentralization. Developers are flocking to Aptos for its efficiency, making it a hotbed for next-gen decentralized apps. However, like any ambitious project, Aptos has its hurdles. Critics have pointed out concerns about decentralization and governance. But the numbers don’t lie—Aptos is growing fast, and its strong developer community is a big reason why. APT is one of those tokens that could either skyrocket or stay steady. Either way, it’s worth keeping an eye on as you build your 2025 crypto portfolio. 4. Tron (TRX): The DeFi Workhorse Tron has been in the game for a while, but don’t let its age fool you—it’s still innovating. With a 47% surge in daily transactions this year, Tron is proving that it’s not just surviving; it’s thriving. Known for its scalability and low transaction fees, Tron is a favorite for stablecoin transfers and DeFi applications. Its recent foray into gaming and entertainment sectors has added another layer to its utility. If you’re looking for a crypto that combines stability with growth potential, Tron is a solid bet. It’s one of the best cryptos to buy this week before 2025 if you want a mix of reliability and innovation. Boost Your Portfolio Building a standout portfolio for 2025 means picking cryptos that blend innovation, usability, and growth potential. Qubetics ($TICS) is redefining how we use digital assets, making it a no-brainer for investors looking for the best crypto presales to join . Avalanche’s scalability and eco-friendly model position it as a long-term contender, while Aptos’ blazing transaction speeds make it one to watch. And let’s not forget Tron, the DeFi workhorse that’s proving its staying power. Based on the latest research, we recommend Qubetics ($TICS), Avalanche (AVAX), Aptos (APT), and Tron (TRX) as top picks to start the new year with a bang. Don’t wait—these projects are already making waves, and you’ll want to be along for the ride. Qubetics: https://qubetics.com/ Telegram: https://t.me/qubetics Twitter: https://twitter.com/qubetics Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.

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Pep Guardiola explains cut on his nose after Man City draw vs FeyenoordModern technologies like social media are making it easier than ever for enemies of the United States to emotionally manipulate U.S. citizens. U.S. officials warn that foreign adversaries are trying to produce tremendous amounts of false, misleading information online to sway public opinion in the U.S. Just this July, the Department of Justice announced it had disrupted a Kremlin-backed campaign that used nearly one thousand fake social media accounts in an attempt to spread disinformation. While AI is commonly used on offense in disinformation wars to generate large amounts of content, AI is now playing an important role in defense, too. Mark Finlayson, a professor at FIU's College of Engineering and Computing, is an expert in training AI to understand stories. He has spent more than two decades studying the subject. Persuasive—but false—stories Storytelling is important to spreading disinformation. "A heartfelt narrative or a personal anecdote is often more compelling to an audience than the facts," says Finlayson. "Stories are particularly effective in overcoming resistance to an idea." For example, a climate activist may be more successful in convincing an audience about plastic pollution by sharing a personal story of a rescued sea turtle with a straw lodged in its nose, rather than only citing statistics, Finlayson says. The story makes the problem relatable. "We are exploring the different ways stories are used to drive an argument," he explains. "It's a challenging problem, as stories in social media posts can be as brief as a single sentence, and sometimes, these posts may only allude to well-known stories without explicitly retelling them." Suspicious handles Finlayson's team is also exploring how AI can analyze usernames or handles in a profile. Azwad Islam, a Ph.D. student and co-author on a recent paper published with Finlayson, explains that usernames often contain significant clues about a user's identity and intentions. The paper was in the , a conference in artificial intelligence. "Handles reveal much about users and how they want to be perceived," Islam explains. "For example, a person claiming to be a New York journalist might choose the handle, '@AlexBurnsNYT' rather than '@NewYorkBoy," because it sounds more credible. Both handles, however, suggest the user is a male with an affiliation to New York." The FIU team demonstrated a tool that can analyze a user handle, reliably revealing a person's claimed name, gender, location and even personality (if that information is hinted at in the handle). Although a user handle alone can't confirm whether an account is fake, it can be crucial in analyzing an account's overall authenticity—especially as AI's ability to understand stories evolves. "By interpreting handles as part of the larger narrative an account presents, we believe usernames could become a critical tool in identifying sources of disinformation," Islam says. Questionable cultural cache Objects and symbols can carry different meanings across cultures. If an AI model is unaware of the differences, it can make a grave mistake in how it interprets a story. Foreign adversaries can also use these symbols to make their messages more persuasive to a target audience. Anurag Acharya is a former Ph.D. student of Finlayson's who worked on this problem. He found that training AI with diverse cultural perspectives improves AI's story comprehension. "A story may say, 'The woman was overjoyed in her white dress.' An AI model trained exclusively on weddings from Western stories might read that and say, 'That's great!' But if my mother saw this sentence, she would take great offense, because we only wear white to funerals," says Acharya, who comes from a family of Hindu heritage. It is critical that AI understands these nuances so it can detect when foreign adversaries are using cultural messages and symbols to have a greater malicious impact. Acharya and Finlayson have a recent paper on this topic, presented at a workshop at the Meeting of the North American Chapter of the Association for Computational Linguistics (NAACL), an AI conference. Helping AI find order in chaos Another difficulty of understanding stories is that the sequence of events that a narrative tells is rarely laid out neatly and precisely in order. Rather, events are often found in pieces, intertwined with other storylines. For human readers, this adds dramatic effect; but for AI models, such complex interrelations can create confusion. Finlayson's research on timeline extraction has significantly advanced AI's understanding of event sequences within narratives. "In a story, you can have inversions and rearrangements of events in many different, complex ways. This is one of the key things that we have worked on with AI. We have helped AI understand how to map out different events that happen in the real world, and how they might affect each other," Finlayson says. "This is a good example of something that people find easy to understand but is challenging for machines. An AI model must be able to order the events in a story accurately. This is important not only to identify disinformation, but also to support many other applications." The FIU team's advancements in helping AI understand stories are positioned to help intelligence analysts fight disinformation with new levels of efficiency and accuracy.

Shelia Poole | (TNS) The Atlanta Journal-Constitution ATLANTA — Holidays are a time for families and friends to gather, but for older people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, it can cause so much stress and confusion that they could be in danger of what experts calls wandering. Related Articles Health | Most US teens are abstaining from drinking, smoking and marijuana, survey says Health | Marin City housing developer files Tam Valley plan Health | Walking in a rhythmic wonderland with holiday songs that could help save lives Health | After pandemic explosion, California drug overdose deaths are falling fast Health | Grasping for hope: The heartbreaking journey through Alzheimer’s drug trials “I would say around the holiday time is the biggest challenge for people with dementia,” said Kim Franklin, senior manager of programs and services at the Georgia chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. “Schedules are changing, people are traveling, families are coming together and friends are coming over. There’s a lot of chaos going on and that can cause a person to wander. They want to get away. It’s hard for them to process what’s happening.” The Alzheimer’s Association reports 72% of dementia patients who wander are found alive by the next day. Alerting 911 as soon as the person goes missing is critical. The odds of survival decrease as more time passes. Angel Alonso, president of Georgia Emergency Search and Recovery based in Gwinnett County, said the vast majority — between 60% and 70% — of the 30 to 40 calls the nonprofit received last year involved people with the disease. The GESAR is a volunteer-driven organization that works with law enforcement to find people who have gone missing, including children, people with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and people lost during major disasters. “We get so many Alzheimer’s calls,” said Vice President John Clark, who is also volunteer instructor with the Georgia Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. For caregivers and loved ones, a relative who goes missing is devastating. Two of Clark’s grandparents had dementia, so he gravitated to search and rescue to help other families and caregivers keep their loved ones safe. He’s consulted with police departments across metro Atlanta on the best ways to find people with Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias can cause people to lose their ability to recognize people and places that are familiar. According to the Alzheimer’s Association there are often warning signs that a person might wander. Six in 10 people with dementia will wander during the course of the disease. That includes people returning from a regular walk or drive later than usual. Or they may talk about fulfilling former obligations, such as going to work or talk about going home even when they’re at home. Sometimes they become restless and pace or make repetitive movements. Clark recounted one call for help when a family reported a missing relative, but they insisted she couldn’t have gone far because of a bad knee that limited her to walking no further than the mailbox. Searchers found the missing woman 7 miles from home. Even those who have never shown an interest in wandering might start without warning. Dan Goerke is fortunate. His late wife, Diane, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2012, once went missing from the car of a caregiver. The caregiver had stopped for an errand. Diane had waited alone in cars as people ran errands before. But this time, when the caregiver returned, Diane was gone but her seat belt was still fastened. “It was like she disappeared into thin air,” said Goerke, who said he doesn’t blame the caregiver. Fortunately, she was found uninjured and nearby a short time later that same day. Goerke said it’s hard for caregivers to always be on guard for wandering. “We have so many things to juggle that’s not necessarily at the top of our minds. We have to manage medications, take them to doctor’s appointments, cook meals and taking care of things day to day,” he said. Clark said when searching for someone with dementia, one of the keys is to know what the person was like before their diagnosis. Often their long-term memories are still strong. They once found a woman who walked out of her home and went to where she used to shop and to her old job, although it had closed. Recently, GESAR unveiled a new tool to search for missing people: Maverick. An 8-month-old chocolate Labrador retriever, Maverick is in training to be part of the GESAR search and research team that will track missing people, including wandering dementia patients in metro Atlanta. In cases involving children and people with dementia, a dog’s personality can also be an asset. Labs like Maverick are friendly and affectionate, not imposing or threatening like some other breeds — and less likely to scare the person who is lost. Canines can be used in searches in both rural and urban areas. “He’s an asset,” said Maverick’s handler, Carmen Alonso. “His nose can pick up odors and track where a person has been that we might not think to go that direction.” At the Cobb County Police Department, Public Information Officer Sgt. Eric Smith said if dogs are needed to search for a wanderer they call the sheriff’s department, which has bloodhounds. “They’re not apprehension dogs so there’s little or no likelihood of a bite,” he said. Technology can also help, Smith said. Searchers can use drones and families can install technology on a person’s car to help locate it or use other kinds of trackable devices including on their phone. “We get so many Alzheimer’s calls,” said Clark, who is also a volunteer instructor with the Georgia Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Most cases they’ve worked on have had favorable results, according to the Georgia Emergency Search and Recovery organization. No two searches are the same, said Sgt. Jeremy Blake of the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office. “When responding to calls for a missing person, the response is different than that of a fleeing suspect,” he wrote in an email. “The K-9s that are used to track missing persons are not trained in the apprehension of suspects. ... Often times, if the K-9 cannot locate the missing person, they can provide officers with a more accurate direction of travel than they may previously had.” Nearly 7 million U.S. residents age 65 and older were living with Alzheimer’s according to the most recent Facts & Figures report . Of those, more than 188,000 Georgians ages 65 and older also have been diagnosed with the disease, according to the Alzheimer’s Association Georgia Chapter. Facts on wandering: There is a better chance of being found in urban environments because of a higher probability of a “good Samaritan” stepping in. Wanderers may give no forewarning. Often those with memory issues wander away during activities they’ve done safely in the past, such as shopping or sitting on a front porch. Some people who still drive can become disoriented and drive for miles away from home. According to the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, on average, half the calls for missing persons involve the elderly or someone with disabilities. If a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia disappears: Call 911 as soon as possible. Have a photograph available for first responders and an article of clothing to provide a scent for search dogs. Sharing what the missing person liked to do in prior years can be a key: Did they have a job they went to every day? Did they like to fish or go to a certain spot? Searchers will need to know the last time the person was seen to help determine how far a person might have wandered. (Source: Alzheimer’s Association and Cobb County Police Department.) ©2024 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Visit at ajc.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.Demi Moore revealed how actor Bruce Willis almost two years after he was revealed his dementia diagnosis . Ex-wife Moore answered questions on CNN about his ongoing health battle, saying that he “in a very stable place at the moment.” “I’ve shared this before, but I really mean this so sincerely,” Moore said. “It’s so important for anybody who’s dealing with this, to really meet them where they’re at, and from that place, there is such loving and joy.” In 2022, Willis' family announced his aphasia diagnosis, a language disorder that makes it hard for those to communicate or understand others. In 2023, they learned the aphasia was a result of frontotemporal dementia. “I’ve known that something was wrong for a long time. It started out with a kind of vague unresponsiveness, which the family chalked up to Hollywood hearing loss,” his daughter Tallulah Willis wrote in Vogue in 2023. “I find that I’m trying to document, to build a record for the day when he isn’t there to remind me of him and of us.” His second wife, Emma Heming Willis, currently is the actor’s caretaker. Moore emphasized that Willis' condition is “very difficult,” and said that she wouldn’t wish it on anyone. “There is great loss,” Moore said. “but there is also great beauty.” Soap opera star Thom Christopher died on Dec. 5 at the age of 84. Christopher starred as villain Carlo Hessler on the long-running soap One Life to Live . Former co-star Anthony Crivello announced his death in a Facebook with a heartfelt message. “He was always a gentleman, always supportive, and he and his wife Judith who proceeded him in death, where always gracious to me and welcoming,” Crivello, who played Christopher’s son, wrote. Christopher’s wife Judith died in 2019. “May Thom fly on Wings of Angels to be beside his beloved Judith, and may they enjoy each other’s company once again, beside the ‘Pearly Gates’ of heaven.” Christopher appeared on the series from 1991 to 2008. One Life to Live ran from 1956 until 2013. In 1992, he won a daytime Emmy for best supporting actor for his work on the show. The name TASER is already synonymous with public safety, with professionals everywhere relying on them for unparalleled protection in all kinds of situations. If you want to get the same sense of security and peace of mind, the TASER Pulse 2 is here to meet your needs. The TASER Pulse 2 is the ultimate compact solution for less-lethal self-defense. Like all TASER devices, the Pulse 2 is designed to empower you to take control of your safety with confidence and clarity while lessening the risk of accidentally hurting yourself (or worse). The TASER Pulse 2 has a traditional compact gun design, making it concealable, easy to carry, and perfect for incorporating into your everyday life , so you can feel fully prepared for any situation that may arise. As the saying goes: if you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready. The TASER Pulse 2 also makes the perfect gift to share with a loved one during this holiday season. After all, you can’t put a price on feeling protected! Whether you’re buying for yourself or someone you care about, now is the perfect time to invest in security by grabbing this reliable tool. If you buy something from this post, we may earn a small commission. Randy Moss, former wide receiver, Hall of Famer and current ESPN pundit for “Sunday NFL Countdown,” is stepping back from the show due to heath issues, according to the network. The hiatus, announced on Friday, comes after an Instagram post by Moss on Sunday asking for prayers. In the video, he said he has been battling “something internal,” and that he has a “great team of doctors.” The star then referred to viewers mentioning his seemingly yellow eyes last week, and put on a pair of sunglasses. “Your boy is going to get through it,” Moss said. “So if you see me with my... glasses on, y’all know what I’m battling,” ESPN said Moss had the network’s “full support’ and that they “look forward to welcoming him back when he is ready.” In the Instagram video, Moss, 47, told men to get their check-ups and bloodwork done. “I just ask for all the prayer warriors to put their blessing hands on me and my family through these hard times,” Moss said. A post shared by Randygmoss (@randygmoss) Britney Spears didn’t move to Mexico— despite the video of Spears saying she did, a source told The Hollywood Reporter . The singer originally told fans that she moved to Mexico to escape the “incredibly cruel” paparazzi. “It really kind of hurts my feelings that the paparazzi make my face look like I’m wearing like a white Jason mask, and it doesn’t even look like me,” Spears said on Tuesday. “They’ve always been incredibly cruel to me, the paparazzi and pictures and the way they’ve illustrated me to be in some of it. I know I’m not perfect at all, by any means, but some of it is extremely mean and cruel, and that’s why I’ve moved to Mexico.” The clip was part of a longer video marking Spears’ 43rd birthday on Monday, which was also the day her divorce with Sam Asghari was finalized, according to TMZ . Scouted selects products independently. If you purchase something from our posts, we may earn a small commission. If you’re looking to revamp your at-home fitness lineup ahead of 2025 and don’t have hours to commit to exercising each day, allow us to introduce you to the CAROL Bike . The science-backed and AI-powered fitness bike is engineered to give you maximum results in the shortest time possible—and by the shortest time, we mean as little as five minutes. In fact, according to the brand, the CAROL bike is “proven to deliver double the health and fitness benefits in 90 percent less time compared to regular cardio.” Free Returns | Free Shipping Not only is it a huge time-saver, but the CAROL Bike is also designed to be personalized to the rider’s individual fitness levels, goals, and preferences, making the workouts easy to follow, time-efficient, and super effective. CAROL’s AI and Reduced Exertion HIIT (REHIT) technology optimizes the workout to your ability and fitness level, so every second matters. The personalized, optimal resistance levels are automatically adjusted as you work out—at exactly the right time—making the most efficient workouts easy to follow. “ CAROL Bike is designed to maximize training efficiency, with the shortest, most effective workouts, backed by science. And new rider-inspired features that give riders more flexibility to exercise their way,” says Ulrich Dempfle, CEO & Co-Founder at CAROL. You can try the CAROL Bike for yourself risk-free for 100 days, and the brand offers free shipping (7-10 business days) in the U.S. A federal court upheld a law stating that TikTok needs to cut ties with its parent company, Chinese-owned ByteDance, or be banned in the U.S. on Jan. 19, 2025. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit denied TikTok’s appeal to overturn the law. The company argued that it violated the First Amendment. “The First Amendment exists to protect free speech in the United States,” said the court’s opinion, written by Judge Douglas Ginsburg. “Here the Government acted solely to protect that freedom from a foreign adversary nation and to limit that adversary’s ability to gather data on people in the United States.” TikTok and ByteDance are expected to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court, though it’s unclear if the Court would hear the case. The ban was signed into law by Joe Biden in April, capping off a years-long fight against the popular app, which lawmakers view as a threat to national security. Two hikers reportedly stumbled upon a woman tied to a tree and crying in Monterey County, California, on Wednesday. According to SF Gate , she was walking a trail in Pebble Beach around 7:30 that morning when she noticed a “suspicious male” behind her, holding a gun. The man did not take anything from her or assault her or injure her, just left her tied up for two hours before the passersby found her. With the help of another hiker, he untied the woman and called the police. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office subsequently launched a search for the suspect, described as being in his 30s with a neck tattoo involving the letter Z. SFGate reports that while authorities haven’t identified anyone matching that description yet, they say there is “no active threat to the community.” Confusing celebrity update: Paris Jackson, daughter of late musician Michael Jackson , is engaged to Justin Long. Not the Justin Long I think you’re thinking of (he’s married to Kate Bosworth) but another Justin Long; the Justin Long who Jackson has been dating for about two years. He works as a music producer, sound engineer, and mixer, according to The Daily Mail , and first appeared on Jackson’s Instagram in Nov. 2022. The next time he showed up on her grid was Friday, in a carousel she posted to celebrate Long’s birthday, which also included photos of the proposal. “Happy birthday, my sweet blue,” she captioned the post, using her nickname for her fiancé. “Doing life with you these last years has been an indescribable whirlwind and I couldn’t dream of anyone more perfect for me to do it all with.” As for when the pair became engaged, Jackson was photographed wearing a big diamond ring during Paris Fashion Week this past September. Consider this the hard launch? The jury in Daniel Penny’s manslaughter case signaled Friday that they’re struggling to reach a verdict on the case. They must decide if Penny “recklessly” caused the death of Jordan Neely by putting him in a six-minute chokehold on the subway in May 2023. Penny’s attorneys argued that the former Marine was justified in putting Neely in a chokehold because witnesses say he told passengers, “Somebody’s going to die today,” and that he was ready to go to jail. Prosecutors argue that no witnesses testified that Neely brandished a weapon or touched anybody, and that Penny kept Neely in the chokehold long after other passengers left the train. The jury has been deliberating since Tuesday. The jury could also convict him of the lesser charge of criminally negligent homicide. If the jury can’t reach a verdict then Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Maxwell Wiley would issue an “Allen” charge, which urges them to reach a unanimous verdict. Penny faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted on the manslaughter charge, or up to four years if convicted of a lesser count. Scouted selects products independently. If you purchase something from our posts, we may earn a small commission. It’s not every day that you can score a deal on a high-quality printer at a lower cost. Investing in a quality printer for your home or office is a game-changer, and while it’s not the most fun purchase, it’ll pay for itself in a couple of months. Fortunately, you don’t have to pay full price for a solid printer, thanks to HP’s current sale . Right now, you can score the HP Envy Inspire 7955e , the brand’s premium at-home photo printer for $70 off. If you’re looking for a solid holiday gift that they’ll actually use, the deluxe multi-purpose printer is a great choice—especially for photographers and anyone who works from home. The all-in-one printer is also designed with HP’s Wolf Essential Security system to keep your information secure and keep hackers out. Plus, unlike other printers that require you to get your hands dirty to replenish the ink, this one offers a 15-second mess-free ink refill experience with bottles that can be plugged into the tank. Say goodbye to messes and hello to your new printer . Best of all? For a limited time, score three months of Instant Ink with HP+. Donald Trump on Friday fired off an unequivocal message of support for his defense secretary pick Pete Hegseth in the wake of several damaging reports about the Fox News star’s alleged behavior. “Pete Hegseth is doing very well. His support is strong and deep, much more so than the Fake News would have you believe,” the president-elect wrote on Truth Social. “He was a great student—Princeton/Harvard educated—with a Military state of mind. He will be a fantastic, high energy, Secretary of Defense Defense, one who leads with charisma and skill. Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!” Trump’s post came the morning after Hegseth spent the day meeting with senators whose votes he’ll need to be confirmed as the next Pentagon chief. Speaking to reporters Thursday, Hegseth insisted he’d had a “ great week ”—despite multiple bombshell reports emerging in recent days about his alleged drunken antics, which he denies, along with rumors that Trump is considering replacing him with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis as his nominee for defense secretary. “As long as Donald Trump wants me in this fight, I’m going to be standing right here in this fight,” Hegseth said. A top Romanian court alleged Friday that Russia conducted an elaborate TikTok psy op to get a pro-Putin political newcomer elected president. The European Union member state’s Constitutional Court made the unprecedented decision to annul the results after the first round of its election votes, with Sunday’s second round of voting canceled, too. A raft of now-released intelligence reports allege that front-runner Calin Georgescu soared into the lead backed by 25,000 TikTok accounts based in Moscow. The Euro skeptic and anti-NATO Georgescu, who has professed his admiration of Romania’s fascist past, was a relative nobody before the election and was polling at around 5 percent. The U.S. State Department said earlier this week that it was concerned by the Romanian Supreme Council of National Defense’s “report of Russian involvement in malign cyber activity designed to influence the integrity of the Romanian electoral process.”WASHINGTON — Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said her agency will need to start taking “extraordinary measures,” or special accounting maneuvers intended to prevent the nation from hitting the debt ceiling , as early as January 14, in a letter sent to congressional leaders Friday afternoon. "Treasury expects to hit the statutory debt ceiling between January 14 and January 23," she wrote in a letter addressed to House and Senate leadership, at which point extraordinary measures would be used to prevent the government from breaching the nation's debt ceiling — which was suspended until Jan. 1, 2025. The department in the past deployed what are known as “extraordinary measures” or accounting maneuvers to keep the government operating. Once those measures run out, the government risks defaulting on its debt unless lawmakers and the president agree to lift the limit on the U.S. government’s ability to borrow. "I respectfully urge Congress to act to protect the full faith and credit of the United States," Yellen said. FILE - U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen speaks during a visit to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) in Vienna, Va., on Jan. 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File) The news came after Democratic President Joe Biden signed a bill into law last week that averted a government shutdown but did not include Republican President-elect Donald Trump’s core debt demand to raise or suspend the nation’s debt limit. Congress approved the bill only after a fierce internal debate among Republicans over how to handle Trump's demand. “Anything else is a betrayal of our country,” Trump said in a statement. After a protracted debate in the summer of 2023 over how to fund the government, policymakers crafted the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which included suspending the nation's $31.4 trillion borrowing authority until Jan. 1, 2025. Notably however, Yellen said, on Jan. 2 the debt is projected to temporarily decrease due to a scheduled redemption of nonmarketable securities held by a federal trust fund associated with Medicare payments. As a result, “Treasury does not expect that it will be necessary to start taking extraordinary measures on January 2 to prevent the United States from defaulting on its obligations," she said. The federal debt stands at about $36 trillion — after ballooning across both Republican and Democratic administrations. The spike in inflation after the COVID-19 pandemic pushed up government borrowing costs such that debt service next year will exceed spending on national security. Republicans, who will have full control of the White House, House and Senate in the new year, have big plans to extend Trump's 2017 tax cuts and other priorities but are debating over how to pay for them. Many consumers may remember receiving their first credit card, either years ago in a plain envelope, or months ago from a smartphone app. Still other consumers may remember their newest card, maybe because it's the credit card they're now using exclusively to maximize cash back rewards or airline miles. But for most consumers, there's also a murky in-between where they add, drop and generally accumulate credit cards over time. Over the years, consumers may close some credit card accounts or leave some of their credit cards dormant as a backup form of payment, or perhaps left forgotten in a desk drawer. In the data below, Experian reveals the changes in consumers wallets in recent years. U.S. consumers, on average, carry fewer cards today than they did in 2017, when the typical wallet held 4.2 active credit cards. As of the third quarter (Q3) of 2023, consumers carried 3.9 cards on average. This average is up slightly since the early days of the pandemic, when consumers reduced their average credit card debt and number of accounts as the economy slowed. As Experian revealed earlier this year, credit card balances are still climbing, despite (and partially because of) higher interest rates. And while average balances are increasing, they are spread across fewer accounts than in recent years. Alternative financing—including buy now, pay later plans for purchases—may account for at least some of this discrepancy, as consumers gravitate toward these newer financing methods. In general, residents of higher-population states tend to carry more credit cards than those who live in states with fewer and smaller population centers. Nonetheless, the difference between the states is relatively small. Considering that the national average is around four credit cards per consumer, the four states with the fewest cards per consumer (Alaska, South Dakota, Vermont and Wyoming) aren't appreciably different, with "only" about 3.3 credit cards per consumer. Similarly, the four states on the higher end of the scale where consumers have 4.2 or more credit cards are Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, New Jersey and Rhode Island. The disparity in average credit card counts is more apparent when the population is segmented by age, thanks in part to Generation Z, many of whom have yet to receive their first credit card. The average number of credit cards for these consumers was two, less than half of what older generations keep on hand. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.(NAPSI)—The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year, but when the average American is spending nearly $1,000 on gifts, food, and decorations, they can also be the most stressful. For many, the pressure to create a picture-perfect holiday can stretch budgets a bit too far. Many of today’s shoppers seek advice from their favorite online influencers, sourcing creative hacks, recipes, DIY projects, and tips to keep the holidays magical without overspending. In fact, 69% of consumers say they value and actively seek out influencer recommendations. Now, questions don’t need to get buried in the comments. This December, TextNow is flipping the script on holiday stress by introducing the Holiday Hotline , a free resource to help you navigate the season, with advice a mere text away. Whether it’s finding affordable gifts, creating a festive dinner on a budget, or even learning how to save on your monthly bills, the Holiday Hotline can make things simpler, cheaper, and—perhaps most importantly—more joyful. TextNow Holiday Hotline: Expert Advice at Your Fingertips From December 5–10, TextNow’s Holiday Hotline connects you with relatable experts (aka some of your favorite influencers including social media creator and podcast host Remi Cruz, Kayla Savings, and Melissa Weiss) who will share their go-to tips for a budget-friendly holiday. Here’s what you can expect: • Holiday Budgeting 101: Learn simple ways to stretch every dollar and avoid those dreaded post-holiday bills. • Affordable Gift-Giving Ideas: Thoughtful, creative gifts that won’t break the bank. • Festive Decorating on a Dime: Transform your home into a holiday wonderland with budget-friendly hacks. • Stress-Free Holiday Cooking: Recipes and meal-planning tips to impress your guests. Need more advice? Just text the hotline at 310-299-3584, and you’ll get personalized, practical tips sent straight to your phone. Win $1,000 for Your Holiday Dinner As if free expert advice wasn’t enough, TextNow is also giving you the chance to win big this holiday season. Enter the $1,000 Dinner Giveaway for a shot at a $1,000 gift card to cover your holiday expenses—whether it’s for food, gifts, travel, or whatever else makes your season special. Entering is simple: 1.Head to TextNow’s Instagram . 2.Like the giveaway post. 3.Share your best holiday tip in the comments (bonus: share the post to your story for an extra entry). 4.The giveaway runs from December 5-12, with winners announced from December 13-16. Save More This Holiday Season TextNow is more than just a phone service—it’s a way to take control of your budget, not just during the holidays but year-round. • Free Phone Service: Unlimited calling and texting on the nation’s largest 5G network free. No gimmicks, no contracts. • Free Essential Data: Get free data for such essential apps as maps, rideshare, and email when you activate your SIM card. • Additional Flexible Data Plans: Add extra data only when you need it, with hourly, daily, or monthly passes. Getting started with TextNow is easy. Download the app to call and text for free over Wi-Fi or unlock free cellular service with a $4.99 SIM card. Learn More For more details, visit www.TextNow.com . Word Count: 491

646jili login FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- Republican senators pushed back on Sunday against criticism from Democrats that Tulsi Gabbard , Donald Trump's pick to lead U.S. intelligence services , is “compromised” by her comments supportive of Russia and secret meetings , as a congresswoman, with Syria’s president, a close ally of the Kremlin and Iran. Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Illinois, a veteran of combat missions in Iraq, said she had concerns about Tulsi Gabbard, Trump's choice to be director of national intelligence . “I think she’s compromised," Duckworth said on CNN’s “State of the Union," citing Gabbard's 2017 trip to Syria, where she held talks with Syrian President Bashar Assad. Gabbard was a Democratic House member from Hawaii at the time. “The U.S. intelligence community has identified her as having troubling relationships with America’s foes. And so my worry is that she couldn’t pass a background check,” Duckworth said. Gabbard, who said last month she is joining the Republican party, has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades. She was deployed to Iraq and Kuwait and, according to the Hawaii National Guard, received a Combat Medical Badge in 2005 for “participation in combat operations under enemy hostile fire in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom III." Duckworth's comments drew immediate backlash from Republicans. “For her to say ridiculous and outright dangerous words like that is wrong," Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Oklahoma, said on CNN, challenging Duckworth to retract her words. “That’s the most dangerous thing she could say — is that a United States lieutenant colonel in the United States Army is compromised and is an asset of Russia.” In recent days, other Democrats have accused Gabbard without evidence of being a “Russian asset.” Sen. Elizabeth Warren, a Massachusetts Democrat, has claimed, without offering details, that Gabbard is in Russian President Vladimir “Putin’s pocket.” Mullin and others say the criticism from Democrats is rooted in the fact that Gabbard left their party and has become a Trump ally. Democrats say they worry that Gabbard's selection as national intelligence chief endangers ties with allies and gives Russia a win. Rep. Adam Schiff, a California Democrat just elected to the Senate, said he would not describe Gabbard as a Russian asset, but said she had “very questionable judgment.” “The problem is if our foreign allies don’t trust the head of our intelligence agencies, they’ll stop sharing information with us,” Schiff said on NBC's “Meet the Press.” Gabbard in 2022 endorsed one of Russia’s justifications for invading Ukraine : the existence of dozens of U.S.-funded biolabs working on some of the world’s nastiest pathogens. The labs are part of an international effort to control outbreaks and stop bioweapons, but Moscow claimed Ukraine was using them to create deadly bioweapons. Gabbard said she just voiced concerns about protecting the labs. Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Missouri, said he thought it was “totally ridiculous” that Gabbard was being cast as a Russian asset for having different political views. “It’s insulting. It’s a slur, quite frankly. There’s no evidence that she’s a asset of another country,” he said on NBC. Sen. James Lankford, another Oklahoma Republican, acknowledged having “lots of questions” for Gabbard as the Senate considers her nomination to lead the intelligence services. Lankford said on NBC that he wants to ask Gabbard about her meeting with Assad and some of her past comments about Russia. “We want to know what the purpose was and what the direction for that was. As a member of Congress, we want to get a chance to talk about past comments that she’s made and get them into full context,” Lankford said.

MONTREAL — Second Cup Canada is cutting ties with a franchisee operating at Montreal’s Jewish General Hospital who was allegedly filmed making hateful and antisemitic comments during a protest in the city last week. Second Cup Canada announced Saturday it was cutting ties with a franchisee for “making hateful remarks and gestures,” and adding in a statement the actions breach the franchise agreement as well as inclusion and community values ​​held by the chain. Peter Mammas, CEO of Montreal-based Foodtastic, which owns Second Cup Canada, said in an interview on Sunday that he was at the movies when his phone started pinging non-stop. He saw the videos and the company’s operations staff spoke to employees that knew the woman, and they confirmed it was indeed the franchisee. Video shot during a pro-Palestinian demonstration outside of Concordia University’s downtown Montreal campus Thursday shows a woman walking around, masked, saying the “final solution is coming your way” — wording used to describe a Nazi plan to eliminate Jews in Europe during the Second World War. Another video also shows what appears to be the same woman, unmasked, making a Nazi salute while walking away. “We’re all for free speech and respectful conversations, but this wasn’t that,” Mammas said. “This was hate speech, and it was something that we thought could incite violence and we’re completely against that, so we sat down with our team and decided to revoke the franchise agreement.” Attempts to reach the franchisee were unsuccessful on Sunday. “Second Cup has zero tolerance for hate speech,” the coffee chain said in a statement on X. “In co-ordination with the hospital, we’ve shut down the franchisee’s café and are terminating their franchise agreement.” Mammas said lawyers for the franchisee and Second Cup were expected to meet on Monday. The regional health agency serving West-Central Montreal, which includes the Jewish General Hospital, said it was made aware of the video “containing antisemitic and hateful messaging.” The video is related to a franchisee of Second Cup, one of the private tenants operating within the (Jewish General), Carl Thériault, a spokesman, said in a statement on Sunday. “We fully support Second Cup’s decision to take swift and decisive action in this matter by shutting down the franchisee’s cafés and terminating their lease agreement.” The hospital has two locations operated by the same franchisee and both were shuttered on Saturday by the owners of the chain. The health agency “is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and stands firmly against antisemitism and any other form of discrimination or hate speech,” Thériault said. “We have franchisees who are Muslim, we have franchisees who are Jewish, we have franchisees that are Greek, French, we have employees from all different nations,” Mammas said. “So we definitely have no issue with that and we don’t take any political side, but ... hate speech ... you know we can’t accept that.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 24, 2024. Sidhartha Banerjee, The Canadian PressIsrael cracks down on Palestinian citizens who speak out against the war in Gaza UMM AL-FAHM, Israel (AP) — In the year since the war in Gaza broke out, Israel's government has been cracking down on dissent among its Palestinian citizens. Authorities have charged Palestinians with “supporting terrorism” because of posts online or for demonstrating against the war. Activists and rights watchdogs say Palestinians have also lost jobs, been suspended from schools and faced police interrogations. Palestinians make up about 20% of Israel's population. Many feel forced to self-censor out of fear of being jailed and further marginalized in society. Others still find ways to dissent, but carefully. Israel's National Security Ministry counters that, “Freedom of speech is not the freedom to incite.” Israel says rabbi who went missing in the UAE was killed TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israel says the body of an Israeli-Moldovan rabbi who went missing in the United Arab Emirates has been found, citing Emirati authorities. The statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office on Sunday said Zvi Kogan was killed, calling it a “heinous antisemitic terror incident.” It said: “The state of Israel will act with all means to seek justice with the criminals responsible for his death." Kogan went missing on Thursday, and there were suspicions he had been kidnapped. His disappearance comes as Iran has been threatening to retaliate against Israel after the two countries traded fire in October. Israeli strike kills Lebanese soldier and wounds 18 as Hezbollah fires rockets at Israel BEIRUT (AP) — An Israeli strike on a Lebanese army center has killed one soldier and wounded 18 others. The Hezbollah militant group meanwhile fired around 160 rockets and other projectiles into northern and central Israel on Sunday, wounding at least five people. Israeli strikes have killed over 40 Lebanese troops since the start of the war between Israel and Hezbollah, even as Lebanon's military has largely kept to the sidelines. The Israeli military expressed regret over the strike, saying it occurred in an area of ongoing combat operations against Hezbollah. It said it does not target the Lebanese armed forces and that the strike is under review. The rising price of paying the national debt is a risk for Trump's promises on growth and inflation WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump has big plans for the economy. He also has big debt problem that'll be a hurdle to delivering on those plan. Trump has bold ambitions on tax cuts, tariffs and other programs. But high interest rates and the price of repaying the federal government’s existing debt could limit what he’s able to do. The federal debt stands at roughly $36 trillion, and the spike in inflation after the pandemic has pushed up the government’s borrowing costs such that debt service next year will easily exceed spending on national security. After Trump's Project 2025 denials, he is tapping its authors and influencers for key roles WASHINGTON (AP) — During the campaign, President-elect Donald Trump had hailed what would become Project 2025 as a conservative roadmap for “exactly what our movement will do." Trump pulled an about-face when Project 2025 became a political liability. He denied knowing anything about the “ridiculous and abysmal” plans, even though some were written by his former aides and many allies. Now, after winning the 2024 election, Trump is stocking his second administration with key players in the effort he temporarily shunned. Trump has tapped Russell Vought for an encore as director of the Office of Management and Budget; Tom Homan, his former immigration chief, as “border czar;” and immigration hardliner Stephen Miller as deputy chief of policy. Forecasts warn of possible winter storms across US during Thanksgiving week WINDSOR, Calif. (AP) — Forecasters in the U.S. have warned of another round of winter weather that could complicate travel leading up to Thanksgiving. California is bracing for more snow and rain this weekend while still grappling with some flooding and small landslides from a previous storm. The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for California's Sierra Nevada through Tuesday, with heavy snow expected at high elevations. Thousands remained without power in the Seattle area on Saturday after a “bomb cyclone” storm system hit the West Coast earlier in the week, killing two people. Parts of the Northeast and Appalachia also began the weekend with heavy precipitation. Pakistan partially stops mobile and internet services ahead of pro-Imran Khan protest ISLAMABAD (AP) — Pakistan has suspended mobile and internet services “in areas with security concerns” as supporters of imprisoned former premier Imran Khan gear up for a protest in the capital. The government and Interior Ministry made the announcement on X, which is banned in Pakistan. Sunday's protest is to demand Khan's release. He has been in prison for more than a year but remains popular. His supporters rely heavily on social media and messaging apps to coordinate with each other. Pakistan has already sealed off Islamabad and shut down major roads and highways connecting the city with Khan's power bases. Here's what to know about the new funding deal that countries agreed to at UN climate talks BAKU, Azerbaijan (AP) — In the wee hours Sunday at the United Nations climate talks, countries from around the world reached an agreement on how rich countries can cough up the funds to support poor countries in the face of climate change. But it’s a far-from-perfect arrangement, with many parties still unsatisfied but hopeful that the deal will be a step in the right direction. Japan holds Sado mines memorial despite South Korean boycott amid lingering historical tensions SADO, Japan (AP) — Japan has held a memorial ceremony near the Sado Island Gold Mines despite a last-minute boycott of the event by South Korea that highlighted tensions between the neighbors over the brutal wartime use of Korean laborers. South Korea’s absence at Sunday’s memorial, to which Seoul government officials and Korean victims’ families were invited, is a major setback in the rapidly improving ties between the countries. The Sado mines were listed in July as a UNESCO World Heritage Site after Japan moved past years of disputes with South Korea and reluctantly acknowledged the mines’ dark history. Chuck Woolery, smooth-talking game show host of 'Love Connection' and 'Scrabble,' dies at 83 NEW YORK (AP) — Chuck Woolery, the affable, smooth-talking game show host of “Wheel of Fortune,” “Love Connection” and “Scrabble” who later became a right-wing podcaster, skewering liberals and accusing the government of lying about COVID-19, has died. He was 83. Mark Young, Woolery’s podcast co-host and friend, said in an email early Sunday that Woolery died at his home in Texas with his wife, Kristen, present. Woolery, with his matinee idol looks, coiffed hair and ease with witty banter, was inducted into the American TV Game Show Hall of Fame in 2007 and earned a daytime Emmy nomination in 1978. He teamed up with Young for the podcast “Blunt Force Truth” and became a full supporter Donald Trump.None

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LDF performed well in bypolls despite Cong's 'false campaign', says Pinarayi VijayanMayor Eric Adams on Tuesday incorrectly asserted that undocumented immigrants are not entitled the right to due process under the U.S. Constitution, aligning himself with a notion previously expressed by President-elect Donald Trump. “The Constitution is for Americans,” Adams told reporters at his weekly City Hall press conference. “I’m not a person that snuck into this country. My ancestors have been here for a long time.” Legal experts disputed Adams’ statement. “The mayor’s claim has no basis in law,” said Elora Mukherjee, the director of the Immigrant Rights Clinic at Columbia Law School. “The laws set forth in the Constitution generally apply to everyone present in U.S. soil whether or not they are a citizen and regardless of their immigration status.” At his weekly City Hall press conference, the mayor had asserted that undocumented people who had committed crimes should be deported, suggesting that immigration authorities should not wait for them to stand trial. He was then asked to explain his position on due process, especially given his own legal circumstances. The mayor has pleaded not guilty to federal corruption charges, which he has claimed were politically motivated. Trump has expressed sympathy for Adams, suggesting that he could offer the mayor a pardon. “Mayor Adams is wrong,” Murad Awawdeh, president of the New York Immigration Coalition, said of Adams' statement. “He is ripping a page from Trump’s playbook, stoking fear and spreading disinformation. We should be able to expect that the mayor of New York City has a basic understanding of the constitutional rights of the people he serves.” Adams also repeated his desire to scale back the city’s sanctuary rules, which restrict city officials from cooperating with federal immigration agents. New York City mayors going back to Ed Koch, who was in office from 1978 to 1989, have pointed to sanctuary policies to encourage immigrants to use city services, such as hospitals, schools and police without fear of deportation. In 2014, the city passed a law that ensured undocumented individuals accused of crimes would be given due process prior to deportation proceedings. City officials may turn over only those undocumented individuals who have been convicted of one of a list of 170 serious crimes within the last five years — and only when a judge has signed a warrant authorizing federal authorities to detain them. On Tuesday, Adams said the changes “went too far.” “We should be able to address and coordinate with any entity when you're dealing with those who commit crimes in our city,” he added. The mayor’s comments come as Trump threatens to carry out mass deportations of undocumented immigrants. Adams, who has been critical of how the Biden administration handled the migrant crisis, has in recent weeks emphasized that he is interested in working with the incoming White House. On Tuesday, Adams told reporters he had reached out to meet with Tom Homan, Trump’s appointed “border czar” who favors an aggressive crackdown. He has said he would use the military to assist with the deportation program and order workplace raids. Research has shown that immigrant communities are responsible for lower rates of crime than U.S.-born citizens. Adams himself has said immigrants are largely law-abiding. But in his rhetoric, the mayor has at times blamed migrant communities for the city's ills. On Tuesday, he presented a slide that showed the sum of money the city spent in caring for migrants in recent years, which came to $6.4 billion as of October. “They hurt the future of New York City,” Adams said. “We didn’t invest in seniors the way we should have, in young people the way we should have.” The mayor has faced heavy criticism for his spending priorities amid an influx of migrants. When he made unpopular cuts last year, some of which he later restored, councilmembers accused Adams of overestimating the cost of the migrant crisis. Immigrants have long been considered an integral part of the city’s economy, as well as that of the United States. Earlier this year, economists said a rise in immigration aided the United States' post-pandemic recovery. Prior to leaving the Adams administration, former Schools Chancellor David Banks credited migrant children with helping boost city schools that have experienced declining enrollment since the pandemic's onset. “For some of the schools, the migrants coming here has been a godsend because we’ve lost so many other kids,” he told the New York Times in September.Republicans rally around Hegseth, Trump's Pentagon pick, as Gaetz withdraws for attorney general

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