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Suder had six rebounds and four steals for the RedHawks (4-2). Eian Elmer scored 15 points and added five rebounds and three steals. Antwone Woolfolk shot 5 of 8 from the field and 3 of 4 from the free-throw line to finish with 13 points, while adding six rebounds. Ahmad Robinson finished with 19 points, six assists and three steals for the Bears (3-4). Brady Shoulders added 14 points and four steals for Mercer. Alex Holt also put up 12 points and nine rebounds. Miami went into the half leading Mercer 35-30. Elmer scored 11 points in the half. Suder scored 12 second-half points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .As a post-Christmas present, Lenovo finally got the 8GB model of the new Chromebook Duet 11′′ in stock just yesterday. That model is the one we reviewed and is absolutely the version to get if you plan on keeping this device around for a few years. The added RAM and included pen just make for a better all-around experience, and even at $399, it is the version I always recommend. Having it back in stock was nice to see for sure, but I know many of you were likely also hoping for a little bit of a discount. If Lenovo is moving enough of these things to end up with a few weeks of it being completely out of stock, they might not need to reduce the price too much at this point. Still, it’s nice to get a deal on any ChromeOS device, and right now, you can save a little bit at checkout with the 8GB Duet 11′′. X remove ads Buy the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11′′ (8GB w/Pen) at Lenovo If you head over to Lenovo’s site and put the Duet 11′′ in your cart, you can add the promo code LENOVOFLASHWKD and your starting price will dip by $20. It’s not a massive savings (5%), but it is something. And you have to admit, $379.99 sounds a lot better than $399.99, right? This code should last until January 20, 2025, but we have no idea how long the 8GB Duet 11′′ will be around this time. There may be bigger deals that happen down the road, but if you’re in the market for the best overall Chromebook tablet right now, this is the one to get. Join Chrome Unboxed Plus Introducing Chrome Unboxed Plus – our revamped membership community. Join today at just $2 / month to get access to our private Discord, exclusive giveaways, AMAs, an ad-free website, ad-free podcast experience and more. Plus Monthly $2/mo. after 7-day free trial advertisement Pay monthly to support our independent coverage and get access to exclusive benefits. Start free trial Plus Annual $20/yr. after 7-day free trial X remove ads Pay yearly to support our independent coverage and get access to exclusive benefits. Start free trial Our newsletters are also a great way to get connected. Subscribe here! Click here to learn more and for membership FAQ

Washington, Nov 21 (AP) While Matt Gaetzhas withdrawn from the nomination process for attorney general, President-elect Donald Trump has picked several other people for his Cabinet and key staff positions who have been accused of some form of sexual misconduct. Trump himself has long been accused of abusing or mistreating women and once was caught bragging about grabbing women by the genitals. He was found liable by a New York City jury for sexual abuse and defamation and eventually ordered to pay the woman, E. Jean Carroll, USD 83 million in damages. Taken together, there are a striking number of incidents in which potential high-ranking government officials in Trump's second administration face allegations of sexual abuse. Trump and all of his picks for government have denied the claims against them, with some of the people accused arguing the cases are driven by politics. Here's a look at what's known about the cases: President-elect Donald Trump Jurors in New York last year found Trump liable for sexually abusing Carroll, an advice columnist, in 1996. The verdict was split: Jurors rejected Carroll's claim that she was raped, finding Trump responsible for a lesser degree of sexual abuse. Jurors also found Trump liable for defaming Carroll over her allegations. Trump did not attend the civil trial and was absent when the verdict was read. Carroll was one of more than a dozen women who have accused Trump of sexual assault or harassment. She went public in a 2019 memoir with her allegation that the Republican raped her in the dressing room of a posh Manhattan department store. Trump denied it, saying he never encountered Carroll at the store and did not know her. He has called her a “nut job” who invented “a fraudulent and false story” to sell a memoir. He has similarly denied claims by other women. Pete Hegseth, nominee for secretary of defence A woman told police that she was sexually assaulted in 2017 by Hegseth after he took her phone, blocked the door to a California hotel room and refused to let her leave, according to a detailed investigative report made public this week. Hegseth told police at the time that the encounter had been consensual and denied any wrongdoing, the report said. News of the allegations surfaced last week when local officials released a brief statement confirming that a woman had accused Hegseth of sexual assault in October 2017 after he had spoken at a Republican women's event in Monterey. Hegseth's lawyer, Timothy Parlatore, said in a statement that the police report confirms “what I have said all along that the incident was fully investigated and police found the allegations to be false, which is why no charges were filed.” Parlatore said a payment was made to the woman as part of a confidential settlement a few years after the police investigation because Hegseth was concerned that she was prepared to file a lawsuit that he feared could have resulted in him being fired from Fox News, where he was a popular host. Parlatore would not reveal the amount of the payment. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nominee for secretary of health and human services A woman who babysat for Kennedy and his second wife told Vanity Fair magazine that he groped her in the late 1990s, when she was 23. Kennedy did not deny the allegation, telling a podcast: “I had a very, very rambunctious youth.” He texted the woman an apology after the story was published. According to an interview the woman gave this week with USA Today, she said she was babysitting for his children at Kennedy's home in Mount Kisco, New York. She said that the assault happened soon after she began working there. During a kitchen table meeting with Kennedy and another person, she said she felt him rubbing her leg under the table. She told the newspaper that another time, Kennedy, then 46, asked her to rub lotion on him when he was shirtless and she obliged because she wanted to get it over with. And he grabbed her in a kitchen pantry and groped her, blocking her exit. She stayed on the job for a few more months before leaving. Linda McMahon, nominee for secretary of education A lawsuit filed last month alleges that McMahon knowingly enabled sexual exploitation of children by a World Wrestling Entertainment employee as early as the 1980s. She denies the allegations. The suit was filed in October in Maryland, where a recent law change eliminated the state's statute of limitations for child sex abuse claims, opening the doors for victims to sue regardless of their age or how much time has passed. The complaint alleges that Melvin Phillips, who died in 2012, would target young men from disadvantaged backgrounds and hire them as “ring boys” to help with the preparations for wrestling matches. Phillips would then assault them in his dressing room, hotels and even in the wrestlers' locker room, according to the complaint, which was filed on behalf of five men. The abuse detailed in the lawsuit occurred over several years during Phillips' long tenure with the organization spanning from the 1970s to the early 1990s. Because of his death, Phillips is not among the named defendants. Instead, the complaint targets WWE founders Linda McMahon and her husband Vince, who grew the organization into the powerhouse it is today. The couple was well aware of Phillips' brazen misconduct but did little to stop him, according to the complaint. “This civil lawsuit based upon thirty-plus year-old allegations is filled with scurrilous lies, exaggerations, and misrepresentations regarding Linda McMahon,” said Laura Brevetti, Linda McMahon's lawyer, in a statement. “The matter at the time was investigated by company attorneys and the FBI, which found no grounds to continue the investigation. Ms. McMahon will vigorously defend against this baseless lawsuit and without doubt ultimately succeed.” Brevetti confirmed Linda and Vince McMahon are separated. Elon Musk, Trump's choice to lead the new Department of Government Efficiency Tesla and SpaceXCEO Elon Musk was accused of sexual misconduct by a flight attendant contracted by SpaceX who worked on his private jet in 2016. He denied the claim. A 2022 report by Business Insider said SpaceX paid the woman USD 250,000 in severance in 2018 in exchange for her agreeing not to file a lawsuit over her claim. The Business Insider report was based on an account by the flight attendant's friend, who said the flight attendant told her about the incident shortly after it happened. The report also said the flight attendant was required to sign a non-disclosure agreement that prohibits her from discussing the payment or anything else about Musk and SpaceX. SpaceX didn't respond to emails seeking comment Friday. Musk responded to the allegations on Twitter, which he was in the process of buying at the time they surfaced. “And, for the record, those wild accusations are utterly untrue,” he wrote in response to one user who tweeted in support of him. He replied to another: “In my 30 year career, including the entire MeToo era, there's nothing to report, but, as soon as I say I intend to restore free speech to Twitter and vote Republican, suddenly there is ...” Matt Gaetz, who withdrew as Trump's choice for attorney general The former Florida congressman was embroiled in a sex trafficking investigation by the Justice Department he had been tapped to lead. He also was under scrutiny by the House Ethics Committee over allegations including sexual misconduct — until he resigned from Congress this week. He then withdrew his name for consideration. Gaetz has vehemently denied any wrongdoing and said last year that the Justice Department's investigation into sex trafficking allegations involving underage girls had ended with no federal charges against him. Federal investigators scrutinised a trip that Gaetz took to the Bahamas with a group of women and a doctor who donated to his campaign, and whether the women were paid or received gifts to have sex with the men, according to people familiar with the matter who were not allowed to publicly discuss the investigation. Two women House investigators that Gaetz paid them for sex and one of the women testified she saw him having sex with a 17-year-old, according to an attorney for the women. The committee began its review of Gaetz in April 2021, deferred its work in response to a Justice Department request, and renewed its work shortly after Gaetz announced that the Justice Department had ended a sex trafficking investigation. (AP) PY PY (This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)

Intel ( INTC -3.30% ) stock lost ground in Tuesday's trading. The company's share price closed out the daily session down 3.3%. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 index and Nasdaq Composite index ended the day up 0.5% and 0.6%, respectively. Intel stock fell today after it was revealed that the company had only received $7.9 billion in direct funding through the CHIPS Act. Previously, the company had been on track to receive an $8.5 billion grant. Intel's CHIPS Act grant comes up a bit short Intel stock gained ground yesterday after it was announced that its federal funding dispersals through the CHIPS Act had been finalized. But with an announcement that it published today, the semiconductor company revealed that it had only received $7.9 billion in funding through the legislation -- short of the $8.5 billion in direct funding that had previously been outlined. The chip giant had also been on track to receive up to $11 billion in additional loans through the CHIPS Act, and it remains to be seen what happens with that funding. What's next for Intel? In response to the news, Citi published a new research note on Intel stock. The firm noted that it believed that performance issues at the company and delayed construction for its semiconductor fabrication plant had led to the funding shortfall. While Citi's analysts believe that Intel is poised to match Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in fabrication in the second half of next year, they're not bullish on the company's ability to turn the fab business into a profitable performance driver. Citi maintained a neutral rating on the stock and a one-year price target of $22 per share, suggesting downside of 8.5% based on today's closing price. Federal funding should help Intel continue to build up its fab business, and it's possible that the company will receive additional government support in the coming years even with the change in the presidential administration and congressional makeup. If Intel is able to scale its third-party fabrication business and attract high-end chip-design customers, its stock could soar above current levels. But the company still has a lot of proving to do on that front.

Referee David Coote will not appeal against termination of contract

Australian Senate begins debate on world-first social media ban for children under 16 MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — The Australian Senate on Thursday began considering a ban on children younger than 16 years old from social media after the House of Representatives overwhelmingly supported the age restriction. Rod Mcguirk, The Associated Press Nov 27, 2024 2:58 PM Nov 27, 2024 3:05 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Senator Jacqui Lambie, left, gestures as she speaks to Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong during debate in the Senate chamber at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024. (Lukas Coch/AAP Image via AP) MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — The Australian Senate on Thursday began considering a ban on children younger than 16 years old from social media after the House of Representatives overwhelmingly supported the age restriction. The world-first bill that would make platforms including TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, X and Instagram liable for fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars ($33 million) for systemic failures to prevent young children from holding accounts is likely to be passed by the Senate on Thursday, the Parliament’s final session for the year and potentially the last before elections, which are due within months. The major parties’ support for the ban all but guarantees the legislation will become law. But many child welfare and mental health advocates are concerned about unintended consequences. Unaligned Sen. Jacqui Lambie complained about the limited amount of time the government gave the Senate to debate the age restriction, which she described as “undercooked.” “I thought this was a good idea. A lot of people out there thought it was a good idea until we looked at the detail and, let's be honest, there's no detail,” Lambie told the Senate. The House of Representatives on Wednesday overwhelmingly carried the bill 102 votes to 13. Once the legislation becomes law, the platforms would have one year to work out how they could implement the ban before penalties are enforced. The platforms complained that the law would be unworkable, and urged the Senate to delay the vote until at least June next year when a government-commissioned evaluation of age assurance technologies made its report on how young children could be excluded. Critics argue the government is attempting to convince parents it is protecting their children ahead of general elections due by May. The government hopes that voters will reward it for responding to parents' concerns about their children's addiction to social media. Some argue the legislation could cause more harm than it prevents. Criticisms include that the legislation was rushed through Parliament without adequate scrutiny, is ineffective, poses privacy risks for all users, and undermines parental authority to make decisions for their children. Opponents of the bill also argue the ban would isolate children, deprive them of the positive aspects of social media, drive them to the dark web, discourage children too young for social media to report harm and reduce incentives for platforms to improve online safety. Rod Mcguirk, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Soccer Red Star's on-loan forward Silas scores against his parent club Stuttgart in Champions League Nov 27, 2024 2:59 PM Liverpool shines in Champions League, dumping Real Madrid down the table. Dortmund rises to 4th Nov 27, 2024 2:57 PM Martinez parades goalkeeper awards and justifies them with wonder save for Villa in Champions League Nov 27, 2024 2:44 PMPalladyne AI's Red Cat Partnership: A Catalyst For Growth In Military RoboticsGLENS FALLS, N.Y. — The Adirondack Thunder can watch football all day Thursday. Before and after they’ll be busy with a three-game Thanksgiving homestand, starting Wednesday against the Trois-Rivieres Lions before battling the Reading Royals on Friday and Saturday. When it’s over, the Thunder will have played 10 games in 16 days, one of the [...]

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SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AstraZeneca, the Anglo-Swedish pharmaceutical giant, has seen its stock price tumble 15 percent over the past six months, buffeted by a series of unsettling reports emanating from China. A widening investigation by China regulators into alleged illegal drug imports, data breaches, and potential health insurance fraud has cast a shadow over the company’s prospects in a critical market, triggering a securities class action lawsuit in the United States. Hagens Berman has opened an investigation into the allegations and urges investors in AstraZeneca American Depositary Shares who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now. Class Period: Feb. 23, 2022 – Dec. 17, 2024 Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Feb. 21, 2025 Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/azn Contact the Firm Now: AZN@hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895 Probe Into AstraZeneca’s China Operations The probe conducted by China regulators, which reportedly centers on allegations that AstraZeneca employees improperly imported cancer medications like Enhertu and Imjudo from Hong Kong into mainland China and mishandled patient data, has been compounded by a broader investigation into a large-scale health insurance fraud case. The confluence of these issues has raised serious concerns among investors about the potential impact on the company’s regional sales and overall financial performance. The situation escalated with the arrest of Leon Wang, AstraZeneca’s Executive Vice President International and China President. This development, coupled with internal forecasts predicting a downturn in sales within the Chinese market, has prompted a sharp investor reaction, culminating in the legal action filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. The AstraZeneca Securities Class Action Suit The lawsuit alleges that AstraZeneca issued “false and misleading statements” and withheld crucial information regarding the company’s exposure to legal and regulatory risks in China. The complaint specifically accuses AstraZeneca of engaging in insurance fraud, facing heightened legal exposure that led to Mr. Wang’s detention, understating the risks associated with its Chinese operations, and failing to disclose the potential for these issues to significantly harm its business and finances in the region. The truth allegedly began to emerge in late October. On October 30, AstraZeneca announced that Mr. Wang was cooperating with a Chinese investigation, offering few details. This initial announcement triggered a 3 percent drop in the company’s share price. The situation worsened on November 5, when Yicai , a Chinese business news outlet, reported that dozens of AstraZeneca China executives were implicated in the investigation, with some potentially facing lengthy prison sentences. The report, citing an industry insider, attributed the alleged compliance issues to “extreme pressure” on sales representatives to meet aggressive sales targets. This news sent AstraZeneca’s stock down another 7 percent. On November 12, AstraZeneca confirmed Mr. Wang’s detention and disclosed that the Chinese investigation encompassed allegations of medical insurance fraud, illegal drug importation, and breaches of personal information. More recently, on December 18, The Financial Times reported that AstraZeneca executives anticipate a decline in Chinese revenue due to the arrests of Mr. Wang and other senior executives. The report quoted an AstraZeneca executive who stated that “doctors are unwilling to interact with our salespeople and prescribe our medicines” following the investigation, precipitating a further nearly 4 percent decline in the company’s share price. Hagens Berman Investigation These events have prompted shareholder rights firm to open an investigation in the allegations. “Should the allegations be confirmed, it suggests AstraZeneca misled investors about the true extent of its exposure in China, a failure with potentially serious consequences,” said Reed Kathrein, an attorney leading the firm's investigation. If you invested in AstraZeneca and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firm’s investigation, submit your losses now » If you’d like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the AstraZeneca investigation, read more » Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding AstraZeneca should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email AZN@hbsslaw.com . About Hagens Berman Hagens Berman is a global plaintiffs’ rights complex litigation firm focusing on corporate accountability. The firm is home to a robust practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and other wrongdoings. Hagens Berman’s team has secured more than $2.9 billion in this area of law. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com . Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw . Contact: Reed Kathrein, 844-916-0895

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CALGARY, Alberta (AP) — A Ukrainian girls’ hockey team is in Canada for a few days of peace and hockey in an arena that doesn’t have a missile-sized hole in its roof. After 56 hours of travel to Calgary, including a 24-hour bus ride from Dnipro to Warsaw, Poland, that required army escort for a portion of it, the Ukrainian Wings will join Wickfest, Hayley Wickenheiser’s annual girls’ hockey festival, on Thursday. The squad of players aged 11 to 13 was drawn from eight different cities in Ukraine, where sport facilities have been damaged or destroyed since Russia started its invasion in February 2022. “They all have a personal story of something awful happening,” said Wickenheiser. “We give them a week of peace and joy here, and I hope they can carry that with them. “We know full well they’re going back to difficult circumstances. It’s tough that way.” Nine players are from Kharkiv, where pictures show a large hole in the roof of the Saltovskiy Led arena where the girls’ team WHC Panthers once skated. “It was our home ice arena, and we played all our national team championships in this ice arena,” said Kateryna Seredenko, who oversees the Panthers program and is the Wings general manager. Ukraine’s Olympic Committee posted photos and wrote in a Facebook post Sept. 1 that Kharkiv’s Sport Palace, which was home to multiple hockey teams, was also destroyed in an attack on the city. Seredenko says the Wings’ arduous journey to Calgary was worth it because it gives the girls hope. “It’s not a good situation in Ukraine, but when they come here, they can believe that everything will be good, everything will be fine, of course we will win soon and we must play hockey. We can’t stop because we love these girls and we will do everything for them,” she said. “So many girls on this Ukrainian team are future players of the national team.” Wickenheiser, a Hockey Hall of Famer , is the assistant general manager of player development for the Toronto Maple Leafs and a doctor who works emergency room shifts in the Toronto area. The six-time Olympian and four-time gold medalist organized her first Wickfest after the 2010 Winter Games. She’s had teams from India, Mexico and the Czech Republic attend over the last decade and a half, but never a team that ran the Ukrainians’ gauntlet of logistics. The Canadian Partnership for Women and Children’s Health took on the task of arranging visas and paying for the team’s travel. “We care about women and children’s health. Sport is such a symbol. When you see a group of girls coming off the ice all sweaty and having worked hard on the ice, it’s a symbol of a healthy girl,” said chief executive officer Julia Anderson. “That’s a healthy kid that’s able to participate in sport. We really believe if we can get girls there, whether they’re in an active war zone, or here in Canada, those girls will change the world.” The Wings aren’t the first Ukrainians to seek a hockey haven in Canada since the war began. An under-25 men’s team played four games against university squads in early 2023 to prepare for that year’s world university games. Ukrainian teams have also twice played in the Quebec City International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament. “It’s the first time in Ukrainian history where a girls’ team is coming to Canada to a very good tournament,” Seredenko said. “They can see how they can play in their future. And they can see how it is to play hockey in Canada.” AP sports: https://apnews.com/sports

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Robbins LLP reminds investors that a shareholder filed a class action on behalf of all investors who purchased or otherwise acquired Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: ENPH) securities between April 25, 2023 and October 22, 2024. Enphase develops, manufactures, and sells solar microinverters, which are primarily used in residential solar installations to convert solar panel output from direct current to alternating current (which can be transmitted to the power grid). For more information, submit a form , email attorney Aaron Dumas, Jr., or give us a call at (800) 350-6003. The Allegations: Robbins LLP is Investigating Allegations that Enphase Energy, Inc. (ENPH) Misled Investors Regarding Conflicts of Interest According to the complaint, during the class period, defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts, about the Company’s business and operations. Specifically, defendants systematically overstated the Company’s ability to maintain its pricing levels and market share for microinverter products in Europe in the face of competition from low-cost, Chinese alternatives. Plaintiff alleges that investors fully learned the truth about Enphase’s competitive positioning in Europe after the market closed on October 22, 2024, when the Company announced its third quarter 2024 financial results and revealed an approximately 15% quarter-over-quarter decline in European revenue due to “further softening in European demand.” In response to Enphase’s continued poor performance in Europe, Guggenheim downgraded Enphase stock to a sell rating from a neutral rating and explained that Enphase is “losing share to Chinese competitors who are willing to sell at less than half [Enphase]’s level.” On this news, the price of Enphase common stock declined $13.76 per share, or nearly 15%, from a close of $92.23 per share on October 22, 2024, to close at $78.47 per share on October 23, 2024. What Now : You may be eligible to participate in the class action against Enphase Energy, Inc. Shareholders who want to serve as lead plaintiff for the class must submit their application to the court by February 11, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. You do not have to participate in the case to be eligible for a recovery. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member. For more information, click here . All representation is on a contingency fee basis. Shareholders pay no fees or expenses. About Robbins LLP : Some law firms issuing releases about this matter do not actually litigate securities class actions; Robbins LLP does. A recognized leader in shareholder rights litigation, the attorneys and staff of Robbins LLP have been dedicated to helping shareholders recover losses, improve corporate governance structures, and hold company executives accountable for their wrongdoing since 2002. Since our inception, we have obtained over $1 billion for shareholders. To be notified if a class action against Enphase Energies, Inc. settles or to receive free alerts when corporate executives engage in wrongdoing, sign up for Stock Watch today. Attorney Advertising. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f14b620a-51df-42c4-b1b6-b88b286634aePublished 5:17 pm Wednesday, November 27, 2024 By Joshua Windus After Javaris Terry’s resignation as the County Marshal, he provided an explanation as to his departure. “In April 2024, I was approached by the County to assume the role of Code Enforcement Officer following Ms. Beamon’s sudden termination. I entered the position without training, a full understanding of the job’s significance, or clear insight into what I was stepping into.” He stated that despite this, we was able to draw on his experience from corporate management of multi-million dollar companies. “I relied on my leadership skills to navigate the role. Although we negotiated my salary and terms, the process bypassed Human Resources, leaving me without a formal offer letter, nor did I meet with HR regarding pay or benefits. I was informed that the County had agreed to my terms and hired me as the Zoning Administrator and Code Enforcement Officer. Terry stated he made a suggestion. “Due to my POST certification as a law enforcement officer, I researched the role and proposed transitioning it into the County Marshal’s Office, a change that was approved.” Terry stated his experience as County Marshal. “By May, the County had approved a Business License Ordinance that had gone unenforced. As Marshal, I focused on revitalizing blighted areas, listening to citizens’ concerns, and ensuring compliance. I achieved a 94% compliance rate for business licenses and worked over 60 hours weekly to meet code enforcement standards. Citizens, previously frustrated with the County’s inaction, expressed appreciation for the progress made under my leadership.” He stated he then had disagreements with Interim County Administrator Douglas Eaves. “In late May, I approached Interim County Administrator Mr. Douglas Eaves regarding my compensation. Despite my rigorous duties, I was being paid $18.97 per hour, just $1.20 above a deputy’s salary. I requested a $3.00 raise, but Mr. Eaves failed to provide an answer and often dismissed my concerns. Instead, he sought to hire someone else—an older, more experienced candidate from another city—with a promised salary of over $70,000, significantly higher than my request.” Terry commented on conflict with both Eaves and County attorney Hayden Hooks. “In September 2024, The Board of Commissioners stripped the Marshal Office from its powers after they unanimously voted to approve this office. This came after Hayden Hooks and Douglas Eaves lied about not creating the Ordinance, when it fact they had written, drafted and passed a law they created, that Javarise Terry had no idea of the ordinance being created. When I brought it to both of their intentions they had lied their response was “it’s okay, Jay don’t do anything relational”. Terry claimed further difficulties. “Following this, I noticed a marked change in Mr. Eaves’ behavior. He consistently disregarded my ideas, forced me out of my office without notice, and displayed a lack of leadership. In the September 2024 Work Session, Mr. Eaves proposed making the Zoning Administrator a department head position with a $55,000+ salary, which was approved.” Terry made further claims. “I was told to reapply for the job I was already performing. It became clear that the position had been promised to someone else.” Terry stated there were issues with the current structure. “When I advised my concerns about the move and that I had already had the job, By law the only way to get out of their mess that was created they had to restructure the departments. Now placing our department under Public Works, and then I was kicked out of my office and under the direction of Jim Littlefield was effective immediately.” Terry commented on his response. “My tenure as County Marshal was marred by political maneuvering. Mr. Eaves frequently pushed unethical proposals that were approved because he had the necessary votes. I’ve endured threats and intimidation, stripping of my powers from this leadership it was the best interest to ultimately leave and past the torch to someone who meets the eyes of the County.” Terry made a final statement. “I love my community and have served it in various capacities—from community organizer to political candidate and police officer. However, I cannot serve where my contributions are undervalued and unappreciated. This lack of respect, coupled with what I believe to be evident racial bias, ultimately led to my decision to leave the County, I’m not an elected official, I’m not the County Administrator, I’m fighting a fight I can’t win and that what led to my departure”. When question further, Terry providing as to whether or not he was claiming Eaves and Hooks were lying, he replied; “That is correct. Both Douglas Eaves and Hayden Hooks created the entire ordinance. They lied to the County Commissioners stated we went with what Jay provided but in truth they created the ordinance and it’s entirety.” Terry commented further that; “I had no parts nor say so in the way the ordinance was written.” When asked for commented, Interim County Administrator Douglas Eaves replied; “I have publicly stated in a meeting that we missed that phrase in the ordinance and that we had no intention to create a department manager. Mr. Terry’s claims have been investigated by an independent third party and found totally unsubstantiated.” When questioned further about the third party, Eaves stated it was an attorney. Hayden Hooks commented during the Sumter County Board of Commissioners meeting on Sept 17. “We got this ordinance, this was provided to me by, by Mr. Terry, and we, and he got it from another County.”

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may not have a shelf full of individual accolades, but one thing's for sure: he takes immense pride in what he accomplished during his NBA career. In one of his infamous social media rants, "Captain Jack" differentiates what he defines as real "hoopers" versus exclusive "scorers." "Stack" on Instagram. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Thanks for the feedback.Buchanan scores 28 off the bench, Boise State downs South Dakota State 83-82

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Emily Calandrelli, the Netflix and YouTube host and MIT engineer known as the "Space Gal," was overwhelmed with tears as she witnessed Earth from space on a recent Blue Origin flight — and she's not apologizing to any online trolls trying to "belittle" her for it. The astronaut, who became the 100th woman in space, wrote on on Nov. 24 that a video showing her emotional reaction during the roughly 10-minute flight was taken down "across all platforms" due to a host of negative comments. TODAY has reached out to Blue Origin for comment. Calandrelli wrote that she watched “hoards of men sexualize” her reaction to viewing Earth from space “because being a woman achieving something monumental means expecting men to try to humiliate her.” Calandrelli was one of six space tourists on the Nov. 22 flight from Blue Origin's site in Texas. Calandrelli described her dismay at seeing some of the comments on the video. "This all happened as I was flying home after experiencing the most perfect, wonderful dream-achieving experience of my life," she wrote in the caption on Instagram. "And instead of being on cloud nine, I’m crying in my seat staring out the window. Because of course this happened. Of course I should have expected this." She said she texted fellow "space sisters" for advice on how to handle the ugly reaction. "But I refuse to give much time to the small men on the internet," she wrote. "I feel experiences in my soul. It’s a trait I got from my father. We feel every emotion deeply and what a beautiful way that is to experience life. This joy is tattooed on my heart. "I will not apologize or feel weird about my reaction. It’s wholly mine and I love it." Calandrelli said she received words of encouragement following her journey. "As I left the flight, the Southwest stewardess who recognized me, and I suspect could see that I had been crying, whispered as I walked off the plane 'don’t let them dull your shine,'" she wrote. "And I felt an immediate sense of camaraderie with her, with all women." Calandrelli mentioned to her followers, “When I can, I’ll reshare it myself with all of you.” She also received supportive comments on Instagram. "I thought your emotional reaction was beautiful," one commenter wrote. "I haven’t been to space or had a baby but I immediately understood the parallel you made. My hope is that in a month or whenever the weird creeps’ reaction just fades into the ether." "Your reaction gave me the chills," another wrote. "I can only imagine the absolutely pure and raw emotion I’d experience seeing a view like that. Thank you for letting us experience that with you. You should be so proud." "I can’t stop crying!!" another person commented. "Watching you live the dreams you worked so hard for is incredibly empowering and so beautiful!!!!!!!!!!!" The next day, on Nov. 25, Calandrelli shared an of her reaction to seeing Earth and space, as she looked out of the window while overcome with awe. “That’s our planet,” she says as her voice cracks. “Oh my God, that’s space.” “I’m here. I did it,” she says later in the video. “We are in space right now. Oh my goodness.” In her caption, she expressed her gratitude for Blue Origin and being able to witness Earth from space. "Our planet 🥺 I left her. I saw her," she wrote. "A dream decades in the making. The only thing I can compare it to was holding my babies for the first time after they were born. Like knowing someone for a long time, loving someone for a while, but seeing them with your own eyes for the very first time. "It hit me in the soul and is tattooed on my heart forever," she continued. "How lucky I am to be one of 100 women to experience this view. I don’t take it for granted and I plan to share this awe with as many as I can." Scott Stump is a trending reporter and the writer of the daily newsletter This is TODAY (which you should ) that brings the day's news, health tips, parenting stories, recipes and a daily delight right to your inbox. He has been a regular contributor for TODAY.com since 2011, producing features and news for pop culture, parents, politics, health, style, food and pretty much everything else.NDMC to revamp infra in its 15 schools for 9.5 crore

Taoiseach Simon Harris not aware if staff asked RTE to remove viral video clipLOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles Rams faced fourth-and-5 at the Buffalo 35 with a 38-35 lead and just under four minutes to play Sunday in their high-octane showdown with the Bills. Sean McVay is often a conservative coach, and it would not have been surprising to see him try a long field goal, or even punt. He kept his offense on the field, and Matthew Stafford calmly went through his progression before finding Tutu Atwell across the middle for an 11-yard gain that played a major role in the Rams' ability to hold on for a season-altering, 44-42 victory over the powerhouse Bills . “We felt like we needed to make it a two-possession game,” McVay said Monday. “They were rolling. We talked about aggressively going to win that game. ... It was just a reflection of the confidence in that group and what we felt like we needed to do to be able to win the game.” The Rams offense has earned the confidence McVay showed in it at that crucial moment. That unit hasn't always been good this season, entering last weekend rated just 18th in the league, but the Rams finally are mostly healthy heading down the stretch — and Puka Nacua and Kyren Williams are again playing at last season's Pro Bowl level. That was bad news for Buffalo, and it could mean trouble for the rest of the NFC if the Rams (7-6) can keep scoring like this. Los Angeles will hope to keep this offensive momentum on a short week heading to San Francisco on Thursday night. Nacua said it was “fantastic being able to feel like, man, this is what it feels like when the Rams are moving and connecting on all cylinders.” Los Angeles had six scoring drives of at least 65 yards while racking up 457 yards against Buffalo. Stafford had a season-high 320 yards passing, while Nacua had another spectacular game with 162 yards receiving and two touchdowns along with 16 yards rushing and another TD on five carries. Incredibly, it was the Rams’ first 40-point game with Stafford behind center. Thanks to that stellar offensive performance, the Rams are above .500 for the first time all season and just one game back of Seattle (8-5) in the NFC West after winning six of their past eight games. A team that appeared to be headed for a grim season after a 1-4 start is still firmly in the playoff race, also trailing Washington (8-5) by just one game for the final wild-card spot. “It’s cool to be able to play meaningful football in December,” said McVay, who led the Rams to five playoff berths in his first seven seasons. "You never take that for granted.” What's working The offense hummed largely because it went 11 of 15 on third downs. That's the Rams' highest success rate in a game since 2001 — and don't forget that crucial fourth down conversion, either. What needs help Few teams can stop Josh Allen, but the Rams' defense didn't come close. The defensive backs particularly struggled, from Darious Williams getting beaten repeatedly in coverage to Quentin Lake's 34-yard pass-interference penalty in the final moments. Two weeks after Philadelphia dropped 481 yards at SoFi Stadium, Buffalo had 445 to push the Rams down to 26th in total defense entering Monday. Stock up The Rams' offensive line has struggled mightily at times this season, but it allowed no sacks and just three hits on Stafford while clearing the way for 137 yards rushing. With full health, the line is no longer a liability. Stock down Edge rusher Byron Young had a rough outing that included two penalties on Buffalo's first drive — an egregious late hit on Allen and a defensive offside that negated a 2-yard Bills loss on second down from the LA 1. The Rams' overall defensive discipline was repeatedly poor, and it cost them. Injuries CB Cobie Durant has a bruised lung, McVay revealed Monday. The Rams are uncertain whether it will prevent him from playing Thursday. Durant has started all 13 games this season. ... WR Demarcus Robinson sprained his shoulder against Buffalo, but kept playing. Key number 1 — The numbers of NFL games played with two teams scoring at least 40 points and making no turnovers. The Rams and Bills made history. Next steps The 49ers haven't been this vulnerable in four years, but Kyle Shanahan has had McVay's number throughout their careers — notwithstanding the Rams' 27-24 comeback win in September when both teams' top offensive playmakers were all injured. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/NFL

Ollie's CEO John Swygert sells $413k in stockAustralia's House of Representatives passes bill that would ban young children from social mediaMore than 70 million people in the US rely on Social Security benefits or Supplemental Security Insurance to provide critical financial assistance. It takes a while to register for Social Security, but once you're in the system, you should start receiving checks regularly each month . If you actively receive Social Security benefits, you need to be aware of the circumstances that could lead to termination or suspension of your Social Security checks. Below are the four major actions that can cause you to forfeit your Social Security benefits, and whether or not you can get them reinstated afterward. For more, learn how much Social Security benefits are increasing in 2025 and how to apply for Social Security benefits for qualifying children . You could lose Social Security benefits if your income changes While you can still work and receive Social Security benefits , if you begin to make more than the annual income limit, your benefits may be reduced or paused completely in certain situations. The limits change depending on certain factors , like whether you're under or over the age of 62 -- the minimum retirement age. Below is an overview of the income limits imposed on specific benefits. Eligibility for SSI typically requires that you earn less than $1,971 per month from work. The limit is increased for couples, but if you exceed that limit, you may no longer be eligible for SSI. You should be notified of any benefit reduction or whether you become ineligible due to reaching the income limit. Note: For every $2 you earn from work, $1 will be reduced from your SSI payment. Working includes any job you have. You're required to promptly report changes to your monthly income and living situation. SSDI beneficiaries have more to work with when it comes to making money from work. If you get a job while receiving SSDI, you'll be able to retain your benefits for up to nine months , which the Social Security Administration calls a "work trial period." For 2024, any month you bring in over $1,110 in gross wages will count toward this nine-month trial period. Note that months don't have to be consecutive, either, but within a rolling five-year period. During these nine months, there's no limit on how much you can earn while retaining your benefits. After your work trial period, you'll enter into a 36-month "extended period of eligibility." During this time, if you exceed the EPE earnings limit, you won't qualify for your SSDI payment for that month. In 2024, the EPE limit is $1,550 per month or $2,590 for disability due to blindness. If you continue to earn over the limit after your EPE is up, your SSDI payments will cease completely, but if you can't continue to work, you can restart your benefits . Supplemental Security Income resource limits In addition to an income limit, to be eligible for SSI, you need to fall under what the administration calls a " resource limit ." Resources that do count toward the limit include cash, bank accounts, stocks, mutual funds, US savings bonds, land, life insurance, personal property, vehicles and anything else you own that could be changed to cash and used for food or shelter, the administration said. Resources that do not count include the home you live in and the land it is on, one vehicle (if you or a member of your household use it for transportation), household goods and personal effects and life insurance policies with a combined face value of $1,500 or less. To be eligible, the SSI resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. If you exceed that limit, you need to spend down your resources to be eligible. According to a recent study by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities , 70,000 beneficiaries on average lose their benefits each year because they exceed the limit. Congress has proposed legislation that would, for example, raise the limit to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for married couples but so far, changes have not been signed into law. Getting divorced could affect your Social Security benefits Your marital status can and will affect your Social Security benefits, and that includes getting a divorce. A few things would prevent you from collecting your ex-spouse's benefits: You go to jail or prison If you go to jail or prison, your Social Security benefits can be affected. If you're incarcerated for more than 30 days, the administration may suspend your Social Security and SSI benefits. If your benefits are suspended, you can request to have them restored for the following month after you're released from jail or prison. Something to note is that even if your benefits are suspended while incarcerated, your spouse or children will continue to receive them as long as they remain eligible. While incarcerated, your SSI benefits will be suspended, but payments will resume when you're released, and you won't have to wait until the following month. Your payment amount will be determined by your release date and would only be a partial payment. If you're in jail or prison for over 12 consecutive months, the administration will terminate your SSI benefits. When you're released, you will need to reach out to the Social Security Administration and start a new application. For more, don't miss the Social Security payment schedule and the 2025 Medicare changes you should know about .

c hambers of j ustice Cricket scores, the rising cost of petrol, a new restaurant - these are the comfortable conversations that fill our days in Pakistan. There is a truth that we hold back, though, like a bitter pill lodged in our throats: the shadow of sexual violence looming over the country, shrouding the sanctity of our most familiar spaces - your bedroom, a classroom, the office, a crowded bus, a playground, the arms of a close relative and even your marital bed. The only way to obliterate the darkness of this shadow is to drag it screaming into the light. So, let’s talk about sexual violence in Pakistan. Not to sensationalise, but to understand, to heal, and to fight for a future where fear of violation does not seep into every corner of a safe space. On July 9, 2024, 20-year-old Sania Zehra, who was pregnant, was brutally raped, tortured, and murdered by her husband in Multan. Similarly, on September 9, 2020, a woman was raped on a highway in Lahore, with her two traumatised children as witnesses. In Pakistan, only 10 per cent of rape cases are reported, yet even these figures reveal a woman is raped every two hours - a statistic that barely scratches the surface of the harsh reality. This violence extends adult women; an average of 12 children per day - or one every two hours - were subjected to sexual abuse in Pakistan in 2023. The rape and murder of 6-year-old Zainab Ansari in January 2018 shook the country, but lessons remained unlearned. Moreover, according to the Anti Rape Crisis Cell Karachi, underage boys have recently been more at risk than underage girls. The reason rape cases and sexual assault cases in general in Pakistan are unrevealed is because society assigns the responsibility of maintaining ‘honour’ to the victim- usually women. According to the data provided by some non-governmental organisations, nearly 1,000 women are killed in the name of honour in Pakistan every year. However, this societal pressure also affects males, particularly underage boys, who fear being perceived as less ‘masculine’ if they disclose their victimisation by other men. Additionally, sexual violence, particularly against children and women, is exploited as a profitable business through trafficking. This highlights that sexual violence is about domination and control over another person’s bodily autonomy. Traffickers force children and women into various forms of exploitation, including begging, forced domestic labour, prostitution, and bonded labour, creating a demand-and-supply chain that generates substantial profits for those involved, hence compelling more to join into this abhorrent money-making scheme. This drive to control other human beings also manifests in the form of female genital mutilation (FGM), a practice seldom discussed in Pakistan or globally, so much so that there are not many statistics available about it. This is done to control the female sexuality, and ensure her chastity, subsequently ensuring her fidelity once she marries. The physical marks left on the body are not prominent, but the psychological trauma is profound, affecting women during menstruation and sexual intercourse. This abominable act stands in stark irony next to the acts of sexual harassment so frequently carried out by men in Pakistan through the form of indecent exposure and ‘flashing’ of their genitals in public, and, with technology now, through unsolicited pictures online. Wielding their sexuality as a weapon to scare and threaten, men exercise their entitlement over other’s bodies and anxieties by freely exposing theirs, without fear of any consequences. Using sex and sexuality as a tool to harm is a common practice in Pakistan, corroborating the fact that sexual violence is not about lust or desire, but more so about power and entitlement. This is evident in various forms, including politically motivated sexual violence supported by governing bodies and the police. Adding onto this, marital rape is another method through which men exert control and ownership over their wives. This crime is rarely reported, and convictions are even more uncommon. Ultimately, the root causes of these atrocities are clear: the perpetrators, predominantly men, derive their audacity from a sense of entitlement. These acts aren’t driven by desire; they are about power and control. Laws alone are insufficient; casual sexism, degrading jokes, and victim-blaming create a breeding ground for such violence. Open conversations are crucial, as well as challenging the very notion of ‘izzat’ being tied to female sexuality. Pakistan can forge a brighter future, one where individuals walk freely, unafraid.

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About 20 terminally ill people in UK die in unrelieved pain each day, research findsORCHARD PARK — Taylor Rapp had some extra energy as he ripped off his red No. 9 practice jersey after practice Thursday. The non-contact jersey he was wearing the last few weeks was a necessity as he nursed an ailing neck and shoulder injury. Rapp declined to discuss the exact nature of his injury, but it was enough to keep him out of the last two games. When Rapp dressed for practice Friday, he didn’t put the red jersey back on, instead returning to the defensive white uniform. Officially listed as questionable, Rapp’s return would provide a boost to the Buffalo Bills secondary — as should the return of cornerback Rasul Douglas — as the safety has emerged as the conductor on the back end. To decipher Rapp’s value, look no further than the games the Bills have allowed the most passing yards. Rapp was playing injured or out in four of the five games Buffalo allowed more than 250 yards through the air, including the last three games. It’s a flip from where Rapp was a year ago, serving as the team’s third safety on third downs after signing with the team on a prove-it, one-year $1.77 million contract. “From a safety perspective, across the league, this is definitely one of the harder systems and schemes,” Rapp told GNN Sports. “Just being able to get that first year under my belt to learn from guys like Micah (Hyde) and (Jordan Poyer), some of the best to ever do it in this system. Just having that first year under my belt to get comfortable and keep it moving.” Is simply winning a game no longer enough for #Bills fans? How much goodwill can the #Sabres get back after a 13-game losing streak? And just how much coal did @billhoppe.bsky.social get in his stocking? fireside.fm/episode/sMvb... [image or embed] Last week’s 253 passing yards allowed to rookie quarterback Drake Maye and the New England Patriots marked the first time the Bills have allowed 250 yards in three consecutive games since 2020. They have never had four such games in Sean McDermott’s eight seasons as head coach. Now the Bills get the New York Jets and quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who despite dropping 10 of their 12 games, has thrown for over 250 yards in three consecutive games, the first time he’s done so since December 2021. Rodgers threw for 294 yards in the teams’ first meeting Oct. 14, Rapp’s first game back after leaving with a concussion sustained against the Baltimore Ravens two weeks earlier . Having Rapp in the lineup gives the Bills a playmaker who has two interceptions, two tackles for a loss and a forced fumble. Typically the Bills are among the best in the league in limiting opposing playmakers. The brand of defense Buffalo plays is designed to limit long passing plays and the Bills have allowed just eight passes over 30 yards, second in the NFL to the Green Bay Packers. But the Bills have given up three passing plays over 50 yards after allowing one in the previous two seasons combined and two over 60 for just the second time (2021) under McDermott. But the Bills view it as a communication issue rather than a decline in talent. All five Week 1 starters in the secondary have missed at least one game due to injury, with cornerback Christian Benford being the only player not to miss more than one. The Bills played without three starters in back-to-back weeks, while slot cornerback Taron Johnson missed parts of last week’s game while being assessed for a concussion and safety Damar Hamlin (rib) is questionable to miss a third consecutive game after wearing a red non-contact jersey all week. “Just hone in on the details,” Rapp said. “It always starts with the details. ... Honing in on the game plan, knowing what you’re supposed to do and knowing your job.” Dealing with Rodgers’ quick release The 41-year-old Rodgers is tasked with facing the Bills defense with his blindside protected by New York’s third-string left tackle. It may seem like a game for the Buffalo pass rush to feast, but the Jets will surely have a plan. Rodgers already has the fourth-quickest release in the NFL this season, getting the ball out in 2.64 seconds on average. Buffalo held him to 2.71 seconds in the 23-20 Week 6 win, but the Jets have added receiver Davante Adams since then. The Bills have struggled with quarterbacks with quick release this season. Opposing quarterbacks are unloading in 2.68 seconds this season, faster than the league average of 2.8. Nearly half of passing attempts against the Bills have left the quarterback’s hand in 2.5 seconds or faster and they are completing 76.7% on those throws.The Bills are allowing 7 yards per attempt on those throws, up from 6.3 on throws over 2.5 seconds. Buffalo hasn’t been able to get to the quarterback on quick-release throws, with seven of its 34 sacks coming on attempts longer than 2.5 seconds. Often the only hope on those plays is to knock passes down, but the Bills don’t have any batted balls on quick throws this season. “We’re expecting a lot of quick throws, a lot of timing things to get him in rhythm and try to get us to second-guess ourselves,” Bills defensive end A.J. Epenesa said. “But if we can keep a one-track mind and keep getting after him, I think we can get to him.” Keeping running back Breece Hall in check should help the Bills put Rodgers in more positions to hold the ball a little longer. But an offense that ranks 31st in the NFL with 88.7 yards rushing per game put up 121 on the Bills in the first matchup. And even if the Bills can make the Jets pass reliant, they must do a better job closing out games defensively. Buffalo has one fourth-quarter sack since Week 10 — it came last week on a bad snap — and they have not had an interception in the final frame since picking off Patrick Mahomes to seal a Week 11 win. Opposing quarterbacks have gone 31 of 38 for 357 yards and four touchdowns the past three games. Not only does the defense know it’s going to be a passing play when playing from behind late in the game, but the offense knows the defense is rushing four and dropping seven in coverage to prevent big plays. “It’s not like we’re hiding what we’re doing,” Epenesa said. “They do certain things to help protect, whether it’s chipping, mixing up protection plans, bringing people in and out from different formations to block. It’s just us trying to get on our stuff and get after it.” What’s at stake The Bills have no chance at the No.1 seed in the AFC after the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Houston Texans on Wednesday. They are now focused on the No. 2 and just need a win over the Jets to clinch it for the third consecutive season. If the Bills don’t beat the Jets, it likely puts them in a position to have to play the Patriots without resting starters in the regular season finale. It would also squander an attempt to go 6-0 in the AFC East for the first time since 2020 and finish with an unbeaten home slate for the first time since 1990. “That’s a precedent that (McDermott) sets early on from everybody that gets here of defending our dirt and making sure that that’s one of the best ways to help yourselves get in the playoffs, is being a good team at your home field,” Bills quarterback Josh Allen said. NOTES: S Damar Hamlin (rib), DB Cam Lewis (shoulder), S Taylor Rapp (neck/shoulder) and WR Curtis Samuel (rib) are questionable to play Sunday.Mother orca and children make ‘grocery shopping’ trip near downtown Vancouverwow jili bet 。

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Los Angeles Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins suffered a knee injury during the second quarter of Monday night's game against his former team, the Baltimore Ravens, and did not return. Dobbins had 40 yards on six carries before being injured. The Ravens drafted Dobbins in the second round in 2020 but he missed most of two seasons with injuries. He signed a one-year deal with the Chargers during the offseason. Dobbins entered the game third in the AFC in rushing with 726 yards and was averaging 4.8 yards per carry. He has been considered among the candidates for Comeback Player of the Year after suffering a torn Achilles tendon in last season's opener.Natixis Advisors LLC Reduces Stock Holdings in T. Rowe Price Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:TROW)Peacock Pays Up: Macy's Thanksgiving Parade Costs Set To Balloon For Content-Hungry NBC

Luigi Mangione may face an uphill legal battle as a suspect in the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson due to mounting evidence against him.New York, NY, Nov. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, the Mount Sinai Health System, one of New York City’s largest academic medical systems, announced the opening of the Hamilton and Amabel James Center for Artificial Intelligence and Human Health, which is dedicated to enhancing health care delivery through the research, development, and application of innovative artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies. The state-of-the-art research center solidifies Mount Sinai Health System’s leadership in delivering patient care through groundbreaking innovation and technology. As one example, Mount Sinai was among the first academic medical centers in the United States to build and operate a supercomputer, named "Minerva," which went into service in 2013. The interdisciplinary center will combine artificial intelligence with data science and genomics in a location at the center of the campus of The Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan. The facility will initially house approximately 40 Principal Investigators, alongside 250 graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, computer scientists, and support staff. Supported by a generous gift from Hamilton Evans "Tony" James, Executive Vice Chairman of the Manhattan-based investment firm Blackstone, and his wife, Amabel, the 12-story, 65,000-square-foot facility will be housed in a repurposed Mount Sinai building at 3 East 101st Street. “By integrating AI technology across genomics, imaging, pathology, electronic health records, and beyond, Mount Sinai is revolutionizing doctors’ capacity to diagnose and treat patients, reshaping the future of health care. Mount Sinai has been at the forefront of AI research and development in health care, and now we stand as one of the first medical schools to establish a dedicated AI research center,” says Eric Nestler, MD, PhD, Director of the Friedman Brain Institute, Dean for Academic and Scientific Affairs and Nash Family Professor in the Nash Family Department of Neuroscience at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and Chief Scientific Officer at Mount Sinai Health System . “As AI technology is evolving rapidly, this moment is critical for maintaining leadership in digital health. The Hamilton and Amabel James Center for Artificial Intelligence and Human Health will cultivate an optimal environment for researchers to deepen their understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of human diseases—including the most debilitating—and to advance overall health and well-being.” “If we want to use artificial intelligence for the greater good and make significant progress in health care, investing in AI research and development within academic institutions is essential,” says Dennis S. Charney, MD, Anne and Joel Ehrenkranz Dean at Icahn Mount Sinai and President for Academic Affairs of the Mount Sinai Health System . “While large tech companies possess substantial funding and resources to access high-performance equipment, they lack access to a health care system, limiting their progress in the field. This new AI research center at Icahn Mount Sinai will yield transformative discoveries in human health by the integration of research and data, fostering collaboration across multiple programs under one roof.” To construct the new AI center, Mount Sinai modernized an existing building to meet contemporary standards, including updating the facade to align with the aesthetic of other campus buildings. Within the 12 floors of the center, eight will be dedicated to Mount Sinai’s AI initiatives. These core facilities include: The Windreich Department of AI and Human Health , which focuses on creating an “AI Fabric” that will integrate machine learning and AI-driven decision-making throughout the Health System’s eight hospitals. The Hasso Plattner Institute for Digital Health at Mount Sinai (HPI•MS), formed in 2019 through a collaboration with the Hasso Plattner Institute for Digital Engineering in Germany, which aims to enhance capabilities in data science, biomedical and digital engineering, machine learning, AI, and wearable technology. In 2024, the Hasso Plattner Foundation renewed its generous support of HPI•MS for the next five years. The Institute for Genomic Health and Division of Medical Genetics , which leads the effort to harness the power of genomic discovery to develop new ways to prevent and treat diseases, including cancers, heart problems, and genetic disorders. The Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Institute , focused on the use of multimodality imaging for brain, heart, and cancer research, along with research in nanomedicine for precision imaging and drug delivery. The Institute for Personalized Medicine , which launched the human genome sequencing research project called the Mount Sinai Million Health Discoveries Program, which aims to enroll 1 million racially and ethnically diverse patients, advance precision medicine research, and improve patient care. About Mount Sinai's Windreich Department of AI and Human Health Mount Sinai's Windreich Department of AI and Human Health, the first such department in a U.S. medical school, is committed to advancing and optimizing artificial intelligence and human health. The department is dedicated to harnessing the power of leading-edge tools to revolutionize scientific research and discovery. This commitment is realized through the creation of an "intelligent fabric," seamlessly integrating machine learning and AI-driven decision-making throughout Mount Sinai’s entire health system. It includes the distinguished Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, serving as a central hub for innovative learning. This integration facilitates robust partnerships spanning all research institutes, academic departments, hospitals, and outpatient centers. Through this strategic approach, the Department is accelerating progress in disease prevention, treating severe illnesses, and enhancing the overall quality of life for all. In 2024, the Department's innovative NutriScan AI application, designed to facilitate faster identification and treatment of malnutrition in hospitalized patients, earned Mount Sinai Health System the prestigious Hearst Health Prize. This machine learning tool improves malnutrition diagnosis rates and resource utilization, demonstrating the impactful application of AI in health care. For more information, visit ai.mssm.edu . About the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is internationally renowned for its outstanding research, educational, and clinical care programs. It is the sole academic partner for the eight- member hospitals* of the Mount Sinai Health System, one of the largest academic health systems in the United States, providing care to a large and diverse patient population. Ranked 11th nationwide in National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding and among the 99th percentile in research dollars per investigator according to the Association of American Medical Colleges, Icahn Mount Sinai has a talented, productive, and successful faculty. More than 4,560 full-time scientists, educators, and clinicians work within and across 45 academic departments and 38 multidisciplinary institutes, a structure that facilitates tremendous collaboration and synergy. Our emphasis on translational research and therapeutics is evident in such diverse areas as genomics/big data, virology, neuroscience, cardiology, geriatrics, as well as gastrointestinal and liver diseases. Icahn Mount Sinai offers highly competitive MD, PhD, and Master’s degree programs, with current enrollment of more than 1,200 students. It has the largest graduate medical education program in the country, with more than 2,685 clinical residents and fellows training throughout the Health System. In addition, more than 560 postdoctoral research fellows are in training within the Health System. A culture of innovation and discovery permeates every Icahn Mount Sinai program. Mount Sinai’s technology transfer office, one of the largest in the country, partners with faculty and trainees to pursue optimal commercialization of intellectual property to ensure that Mount Sinai discoveries and innovations translate into healthcare products and services that benefit the public. Icahn Mount Sinai’s commitment to breakthrough science and clinical care is enhanced by academic affiliations that supplement and complement the School’s programs. Through the Mount Sinai Innovation Partners (MSIP), the Health System facilitates the real-world application and commercialization of medical breakthroughs made at Mount Sinai. Additionally, MSIP develops research partnerships with industry leaders such as Merck & Co., AstraZeneca, Novo Nordisk, and others. The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is located in New York City on the border between the Upper East Side and East Harlem, and classroom teaching takes place on a campus facing Central Park. Icahn Mount Sinai’s location offers many opportunities to interact with and care for diverse communities. Learning extends well beyond the borders of our physical campus, to the eight hospitals of the Mount Sinai Health System, our academic affiliates, and globally. ------------------------------------------------------- * Mount Sinai Health System member hospitals: The Mount Sinai Hospital; Mount Sinai Beth Israel; Mount Sinai Brooklyn; Mount Sinai Morningside; Mount Sinai Queens; Mount Sinai South Nassau; Mount Sinai West; and New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai. About the Mount Sinai Health System Mount Sinai Health System is one of the largest academic medical systems in the New York metro area, with 48,000 employees working across eight hospitals, more than 400 outpatient practices, more than 600 research and clinical labs, a school of nursing, and a leading school of medicine and graduate education. Mount Sinai advances health for all people, everywhere, by taking on the most complex health care challenges of our time—discovering and applying new scientific learning and knowledge; developing safer, more effective treatments; educating the next generation of medical leaders and innovators; and supporting local communities by delivering high-quality care to all who need it. Through the integration of its hospitals, labs, and schools, Mount Sinai offers comprehensive health care solutions from birth through geriatrics, leveraging innovative approaches such as artificial intelligence and informatics while keeping patients’ medical and emotional needs at the center of all treatment. The Health System includes approximately 9,000 primary and specialty care physicians and 11 free-standing joint-venture centers throughout the five boroughs of New York City, Westchester, Long Island, and Florida. Hospitals within the System are consistently ranked by Newsweek’s® “The World’s Best Smart Hospitals, Best in State Hospitals, World Best Hospitals and Best Specialty Hospitals” and by U.S. News & World Report's® “Best Hospitals” and “Best Children’s Hospitals.” The Mount Sinai Hospital is on the U.S. News & World Report® “Best Hospitals” Honor Roll for 2024-2025. For more information, visit https://www.mountsinai.org or find Mount Sinai on Facebook , Twitter and YouTube . Attachment Ribbon Cutting PhotoLSTAR reacts to Bank of Canada interest rate cut

Cruise Tourism Market to Grow by USD 24.88 Billion (2024-2028), Driven by Economic Recovery and HNWI Growth, with AI-Powered Market Evolution - TechnavioSamsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: 5 Features We’re Dreaming Of

American and European stock markets mostly rose on Wednesday after inflation data cemented expectations that the US Federal Reserve will trim interest rates next month. While the Dow fell slightly, the other two major US indices advanced, led by the tech-rich Nasdaq, which piled on almost two percent to close above 20,000 points for the first time. The consumer price index (CPI) rose to 2.7 percent last month from a year ago, up slightly from 2.6 percent in October. "With the CPI numbers broadly in line, it is likely that the Fed will not be derailed and will cut rates again next week," Jochen Stanzl, chief market analyst at CMC Markets. "The data is not a showstopper for the current bull run on Wall Street," he added. Ahead of the data, investors priced in an 86 percent chance the Fed will cut interest rates next week by a quarter percentage point. That rose to more than 98 percent after the CPI data was published. Stocks in Paris and Frankfurt rose ahead of the European Central Bank's own interest rate announcement on Thursday, with analysts expecting another cut as it seeks to boost eurozone growth. Investors are also eyeing political developments in France, where officials said President Emmanuel Macron aims to name a new prime minister "within 48 hours" as he seeks to end political deadlock following the ouster of Michel Barnier. In company news, shares in German retail giant Zalando shed more than four percent on Frankfurt's DAX index, after it acquired domestic rival About You in a deal worth around 1.1 billion euros ($1.2 billion). Shares in Zara owner Inditex slid more than six percent after a record quarterly profit for the group fell short of market estimates. Among US companies, Google parent Alphabet earned 5.5 percent as it announced the launch of Gemini 2.0, its most advanced artificial intelligence model to date. That added to gains after Google also announced Tuesday details of a breakthrough quantum chip. Shares in Shanghai rose but Hong Kong gave up an early rally to end in the red. Traders were keeping tabs on China to see if it will announce further measures to support its struggling economy as leaders were to gather Wednesday for a conference to hammer out next year's agenda. President Xi Jinping and other top leaders on Monday announced their first major shift in policy for more than a decade, saying they would "implement a more active fiscal policy and an appropriately relaxed" strategy. Those remarks sparked hopes for more interest rate cuts and the freeing up of more cash for lending. New York - Dow: DOWN 0.2 percent at 44,148.56 (close) New York - S&P 500: UP 0.8 percent at 6,084.19 (close) New York - Nasdaq Composite: UP 1.8 percent at 20,034.89 (close) London - FTSE 100: UP 0.3 percent at 8,301.62 (close) Paris - CAC 40: UP 0.4 percent at 7,423.40 (close) Frankfurt - DAX: UP 0.3 percent at 20,399.16 (close) Tokyo - Nikkei 225: FLAT at 39,372.23 (close) Hong Kong - Hang Seng Index: DOWN 0.8 percent at 20,155.05 (close) Shanghai - Composite: UP 0.3 percent at 3,432.49 (close) Euro/dollar: DOWN at $1.0498 from $1.0527 on Tuesday Pound/dollar: DOWN at $1.2752 from $1.2771 Dollar/yen: UP at 152.40 yen from 151.95 yen Euro/pound: DOWN at 82.31 from 82.42 pence Brent North Sea Crude: UP 1.8 percent at $73.52 per barrel West Texas Intermediate: UP 2.4 percent at $70.29 per barrel burs-jmb/mlmNoneRachel Reeves accused of making Britain uninvestable as she insists there is no alternative to tax hikes - The Independent

Bill Belichick offered UNC head coaching position, sources say‘Like Arab countries, Iran desires stability in Syria,’ Iran tells Arab LeagueJoin our daily and weekly newsletters for the latest updates and exclusive content on industry-leading AI coverage. Learn More Chinese AI startup DeepSeek, known for challenging leading AI vendors with its innovative open-source technologies, today released a new ultra-large model: DeepSeek-V3. Available via Hugging Face under the company's license agreement, the new model comes with 671B parameters but uses a mixture-of-experts architecture to activate only select parameters, in order to handle given tasks accurately and efficiently. According to benchmarks shared by DeepSeek, the offering is already topping the charts, outperforming leading open-source models, including Meta's Llama 3.1-405B, and closely matching the performance of closed models from Anthropic and OpenAI. The release marks another major development closing the gap between closed and open-source AI. Ultimately, DeepSeek, which started as an offshoot of Chinese quantitative hedge fund High-Flyer Capital Management, hopes these developments will pave the way for artificial general intelligence (AGI), where models will have the ability to understand or learn any intellectual task that a human being can. What does DeepSeek-V3 bring to the table? Just like its predecessor DeepSeek-V2, the new ultra-large model uses the same basic architecture revolving around multi-head latent attention (MLA) and DeepSeekMoE. This approach ensures it maintains efficient training and inference — with specialized and shared "experts" (individual, smaller neural networks within the larger model) activating 37B parameters out of 671B for each token. While the basic architecture ensures robust performance for DeepSeek-V3, the company has also debuted two innovations to further push the bar. The first is an auxiliary loss-free load-balancing strategy.... Shubham Sharma

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Former New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones is expected to clear waivers Monday and have a new home on a one-year deal sooner rather than later, league sources told ESPN. No team is expected to claim the balance of Jones' contract -- $11,833,333 for this season in addition to the $23 million in injury guarantees for after this season -- making him officially free to sign with another team after 4 p.m. ET on Monday. Jones, who was officially waived Saturday by the Giants, is expected to have multiple options but likely will prefer to finish this season on a playoff-contending team, where he will be involved in big games, rather than going to a meandering quarterback-needy team not remotely in playoff contention, according to sources. Editor's Picks How it all fell apart for Daniel Jones and the Giants 1d Jordan Raanan Barkley: Hoping Jones can find 'same fresh start' 8h Could Daniel Jones still have success in the NFL? His case for another shot, plus five team fits 1d Ben Solak Multiple playoff-contending teams are likely to inquire about Jones and his level of interest, but it will not be long before Jones is finishing out the season somewhere other than New York. New York announced its intention to part ways with Jones on Friday, ending the former first-round draft pick's stint with the Giants after five-plus seasons. Giants owner John Mara said in a statement that the organization and Jones "mutually agreed" that the move "would be best for him and for the team." Once the Giants informed Jones earlier this week that they were benching him, events surrounding the quarterback happened quickly. Jones effectively was no longer on the depth chart because the Giants would not take any risk of an injury, with Tommy DeVito as their starter, Drew Lock as the backup and the newly signed Tim Boyle at third string. Jones took individual reps and even helped out the squad when he played scout-team safety in practice Thursday during a walkthrough, before asking for and being granted his release Friday. None of this should have been overly surprising; similar scenarios unfolded four times in the NFL over the past two seasons before the Giants' turn with Jones this week. Last season in Denver, the Broncos benched Russell Wilson before he could potentially suffer an injury and trigger a $37 million guarantee for 2024. Also last season, the Raiders benched Jimmy Garoppolo rather than risking an injury to the quarterback, which could have guaranteed an additional $11.25 million that would have been due this season. In 2022, the Colts benched Matt Ryan in October, decreasing the risk of having to pay the veteran quarterback a $7.5 million roster bonus in March 2023. Later that year, the Raiders benched Derek Carr to avoid his $32.9 million salary for the 2023 season and $7.5 million of his 2024 salary becoming guaranteed if he suffered a significant injury. Now Jones and the Giants have expedited their divorce, freeing the quarterback to find a new home next week. One team unlikely to pursue Jones right now is the Eagles , who already signed former Giants running back Saquon Barkley . Barkley was selected second overall by the Giants in the 2018 draft -- one year before New York used the sixth overall pick on Jones. The two-time Pro Bowler said he has been in contact with his former teammate and knows there are bright days ahead for Jones. "Our friendship has stayed close throughout the whole process of me being here," Barkley told reporters Friday. "It sucks to see how everything went down for him over there. I've got nothing but great things to say about him. You're not going to really find anybody that can say negative things about him. "It's the NFL. Hopefully, wherever he ends up next, they're going to get a guy who come in and work. It didn't work for me over there, and I'm doing well over here. Hopefully, he can find the same fresh start and success."

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NonePresident-elect Donald Trump on Friday nominated Dr. Marty Makary to lead the Food and Drug Administration , selecting a surgeon and author who gained national attention for opposing vaccine mandates and some other public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Makary, a professor at Johns Hopkins University, is the latest in a string of Trump nominees who have declared the U.S. health system “broken” and in need of a shakeup. Philadelphia news 24/7: Watch NBC10 free wherever you are In books and articles Makary has decried the overprescribing of drugs, the use of pesticides on foods and the undue influence of pharmaceutical and insurance companies over doctors and government regulators. He will need to be confirmed by the Republican-led Senate to take the post. Trump announced the nomination in a statement Friday night, saying Makary “will restore FDA to the gold standard of scientific research, and cut the bureaucratic red tape at the agency to make sure Americans get the medical cures and treatments they deserve.” Headquartered in the Maryland suburbs outside Washington, the 18,000 employees of the FDA are responsible for the safety and effectiveness of prescription drugs , vaccines and medical devices as well as a swath of other consumer goods, including food , cosmetics and vaping products . Altogether those products represent an estimated 20% of U.S. consumer spending annually, or $2.6 trillion. Makary gained prominence on Fox News and other conservative outlets for his contrarian views during the COVID-19 pandemic. He questioned the need for masking and, though not opposed to the COVID-19 vaccine, had concerns about vaccinations in young children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that COVID-19 vaccinations prevented more than 686,000 U.S. deaths in 2020 and 2021 alone. While children faced much lower rates of hospitalization and death from the virus, medical societies including the American Academy of Pediatrics concluded that vaccinations significantly reduced severe disease in the age group. Trained as a surgeon and cancer specialist, Makary was part of a vocal group of physicians calling for greater emphasis on herd immunity to stop the virus, or the idea that mass infections would quickly lead to population-level protection. In a February 2021 Wall Street Journal piece , he wrote that “COVID will be mostly gone by April, allowing Americans to resume normal life.” That summer the delta variant of the virus ripped through the U.S. , followed by omicron in the winter, leading to hundreds of thousands of additional deaths. If confirmed, Makary would be expected to report to anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. , Trump's pick to oversee the nation’s Department of Health and Human Services , which includes the FDA. Makary does not share Kennedy’s discredited views on vaccines , but he has a similar distrust of the pharmaceutical industry. Makary has lamented how drugmakers used misleading data to urge doctors to prescribe OxyContin and other opioids as low-risk, non-addictive pain relievers. That marketing was permitted under FDA-approved labeling from the 1990s, suggesting the drugs were safe for common ailments like back pain. In more recent years, the FDA has come under fire for approving drugs for Alzheimer's , ALS and other conditions based on incomplete data that failed to show meaningful benefits for patients. A push toward greater scrutiny of drug safety and effectiveness would be a major reversal at FDA, which for decades has focused on speedier drug approvals . That trend has been fueled by industry lobbying and fees paid by drugmakers to help the FDA hire additional reviewers. Kennedy has proposed ending those payments, which would require billions in new funding from the federal budget. Other administration priorities would likely run into similar roadblocks. For instance, Kennedy wants to bar drugmakers from advertising on TV , a multibillion-dollar market that supports many TV and cable networks. The Supreme Court and other conservative judges would likely overturn such a ban on First Amendment grounds that protect commercial speech, experts note. Makary would also inherit a raft of ongoing projects at the FDA kicked off by outgoing Commissioner Robert Califf, including the reorganization of the agency's food division and plans to regulate artificial intelligence in medical technology. In the event of other controversial initiatives under Trump, career staffers may simply drag the work out until a new administration comes to power. “The bureaucracy can wait anybody out, and that’s an attitude I think you’ll hear a lot,” said Wayne Pines, a former FDA official under Republican and Democratic administrations. Trump appointments and nominees Here are some of the people that President-elect Donald Trump has named for high-profile positions in his administration. Positions in orange require Senate confirmation. Source: NBC News The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.wow jili casino link 。

Qatar tribune Agencies US austo giant General Motors announced Tuesday it will abandon its robotaxi development efforts after a highly publicized incident last year stymied its progress in the autonomous vehicle field. The Detroit-based manufacturer plans to merge the Cruise robotaxi vehicle unit with GM’s technical teams to concentrate on developing advanced driver assistance systems for personal vehicles, a statement said. The company said it abandoned the Cruise project “given the considerable time and resources that would be needed to scale the business, along with an increasingly competitive robotaxi market.” It marks a major turnaround for GM, which bought the Cruise startup in 2016 and has since spent billions of dollars to make the operation viable. “A robotaxi business is not General Motors’ core business,” said GM CEO Mary Barra in a call with analysts. But Barra said GM’s commitment to autonomous technology “is unwavering.” Honda, an investor in Cruise, had planned to launch a robotaxi service in Japan in 2026, but the Japanese group will now “reassess the project’s future and make necessary adjustments, including potential cancellation, once Cruise finalizes its restructuring,” Honda’s US subsidiary told AFP. The halt of operations comes a year after Cruise was forced to suspend all operations in San Francisco after one of its self-driving cars dragged a woman who had first been hit by a hit-and-run driver in the city. Cruise lost its operating permits from regulators, paused expansions into other states and laid off 900 employees - a quarter of its workforce. Shortly before the incident, California authorities had allowed for expanded driverless taxi services in San Francisco, giving the go-ahead for Alphabet-owned Waymo and Cruise. Copy 13/12/2024 10West Ham's Antonio in hospital after road traffic incident

Australia news LIVE: Dutton to announce Coalition’s nuclear policy; Early rates cut unlikely as unemployment dipsNEW YORK (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump’s lawyers formally asked a judge Monday to throw out his hush money criminal conviction , arguing continuing the case would present unconstitutional “disruptions to the institution of the Presidency.“ In a filing made public Tuesday, Trump’s lawyers told Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan that dismissal is warranted because of the “overwhelming national mandate granted to him by the American people on November 5, 2024.” They also cited President Joe Biden’s recent pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, who had been convicted of tax and gun charges . “President Biden asserted that his son was ‘selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted,’ and ‘treated differently,’" Trump’s legal team wrote. The Manhattan district attorney, they claimed, had engaged in the type of political theater "that President Biden condemned.” Prosecutors will have until Dec. 9 to respond. They have said they will fight any efforts to dismiss the case but have indicated a willingness to delay the sentencing until after Trump’s second term ends in 2029. In their filing Monday, Trump's attorneys dismissed the idea of holding off sentencing until Trump is out of office as a “ridiculous suggestion.” Following Trump’s election victory last month, Merchan halted proceedings and indefinitely postponed his sentencing, previously scheduled for late November, to allow the defense and prosecution to weigh in on the future of the case. He also delayed a decision on Trump’s prior bid to dismiss the case on immunity grounds. Trump has been fighting for months to reverse his conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal a $130,000 payment to porn actor Stormy Daniels to suppress her claim that they had sex a decade earlier. He says they did not and denies any wrongdoing. Taking a swipe at Bragg and New York City, as Trump often did throughout the trial, the filing argues that dismissal would also benefit the public by giving him and “the numerous prosecutors assigned to this case a renewed opportunity to put an end to deteriorating conditions in the City and to protect its residents from violent crime.” Clearing Trump, the lawyers added, would also allow him to “to devote all of his energy to protecting the Nation.” The defense filing was signed by Trump lawyers Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, who represented Trump during the trial and have since been selected by the president-elect to fill senior roles at the Justice Department. A dismissal would erase Trump’s historic conviction, sparing him the cloud of a criminal record and possible prison sentence. Trump is the first former president to be convicted of a crime and the first convicted criminal to be elected to the office. Trump takes office on Jan. 20. Merchan hasn’t set a timetable for a decision. Merchan could also decide to uphold the verdict and proceed to sentencing, delay the case until Trump leaves office, wait until a federal appeals court rules on Trump’s parallel effort to get the case moved out of state court or choose some other option. Prosecutors had cast the payout as part of a Trump-driven effort to keep voters from hearing salacious stories about him. Trump’s then-lawyer Michael Cohen paid Daniels. Trump later reimbursed him, and Trump’s company logged the reimbursements as legal expenses — concealing what they really were, prosecutors alleged. Trump has pledged to appeal the verdict if the case is not dismissed. He and his lawyers said the payments to Cohen were properly categorized as legal expenses for legal work. A month after the verdict, the Supreme Court ruled that ex-presidents can’t be prosecuted for official acts — things they did in the course of running the country — and that prosecutors can’t cite those actions to bolster a case centered on purely personal, unofficial conduct. Trump’s lawyers cited the ruling to argue that the hush money jury got some improper evidence, such as Trump’s presidential financial disclosure form, testimony from some White House aides and social media posts made during his first term. Prosecutors disagreed and said the evidence in question was only “a sliver” of their case. If the verdict stands and the case proceeds to sentencing, Trump’s punishments would range from a fine to probation to up to four years in prison — but it’s unlikely he’d spend any time behind bars for a first-time conviction involving charges in the lowest tier of felonies. Because it is a state case, Trump would not be able to pardon himself once he returns to office. Presidential pardons apply only to federal crimes. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

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Manchester City's struggles continued as Pep Guardiola's side remarkably blew a three-goal lead to draw 3-3 with Feyenoord in the Champions League on Tuesday, while Bayern Munich beat Paris Saint-Germain to leave the French club in danger of elimination. There were also big wins for Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, Atalanta and Bayer Leverkusen, while Inter Milan went top of the standings after five games and Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski reached a century of Champions League goals. However, the biggest drama came at the Etihad Stadium, where City were cruising early in the second half with a three-goal advantage as they sought to end a run of five successive defeats in all competitions. Erling Haaland opened the scoring from a penalty just before half-time, and Ilkay Gundogan's deflected shot made it 2-0 in the 50th minute. Haaland struck again to make it 3-0, but Feyenoord's comeback began on 75 minutes when Anis Hadj Moussa took advantage of hapless defending to round goalkeeper Ederson and pull one back. Substitute Santiago Gimenez bundled in to make it 3-2 on 82 minutes and the equaliser arrived a minute from the end. Ederson was again caught out with Igor Paixao going around the goalkeeper and crossing for Slovak international David Hancko to head in. "We concede a lot of goals because we are not stable," complained Guardiola. "We lost a lot of games lately. We are fragile and of course we need a victory." It is the first time that a team has gone into the last 20 minutes of a Champions League game trailing by three goals and still avoided defeat, as the point boosts the Dutch side's hopes of progressing. City are two points outside the top eight places which offer direct qualification for the last 16, while Bayern moved above them by beating PSG 1-0 in Munich. South Korean defender Kim Min-jae scored the only goal seven minutes before half-time, heading in after goalkeeper Matvei Safonov failed to clear a corner. PSG had Ousmane Dembele sent off in the second half and the French champions have just four points, and three goals, from five games. They are a lowly 26th in the 36-team league, a point adrift of the positions which offer a place in the play-off round in February. "We need to win our last three matches, otherwise we risk being eliminated," admitted PSG coach Luis Enrique. Lewandowski notched his 100th goal in the competition with an early penalty in Barcelona's 3-0 home win over French side Brest. Dani Olmo netted midway through the second half before Lewandowski sealed Barca's win at the death, his 101st goal in the Champions League -- only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have scored more. Inter lead the standings with 13 points, a point ahead of Barcelona and Liverpool, after a 1-0 win at home to RB Leipzig which means they are also still yet to concede a goal. Castello Lukeba's own goal made the difference at San Siro, and Leipzig are one of only three teams to have lost five games out of five. Arsenal romped to a 5-1 victory away to Sporting in Lisbon, as the Portuguese side adapt to life without coach Ruben Amorim, who has departed for Manchester United. Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Magalhaes all scored in the first half for Arsenal, before Goncalo Inacio pulled one back shortly after the restart. Bukayo Saka converted a penalty on 65 minutes after Martin Odegaard had been brought down, and Leandro Trossard headed in to seal Arsenal's win late on. Atalanta romped to a 6-1 win over rock-bottom Young Boys in Switzerland, with Mateo Retegui and Charles De Ketelaere both scoring braces. Sead Kolasinac and Lazar Samardzic also netted for the Italians, with Silvere Ganvoula getting the hosts' reply. Florian Wirtz struck twice, including a penalty, as Leverkusen crushed Red Bull Salzburg 5-0, with Alejandro Grimaldo scoring a superb free-kick and Patrik Schick and Aleix Garcia also netting. Julian Alvarez and substitute Angel Correa each scored twice and Marcos Llorente and Antoine Griezmann once as Atletico romped to a 6-0 win away to Sparta Prague. Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leao and Tammy Abraham were the scorers in AC Milan's 3-2 win at Slovan Bratislava, whose goals came from Tigran Barseghyan and Nino Marcelli. Marko Tolic saw red at the end for Slovan, who are without a point. as/nfPower Nickel Inc. (TSXV: PNPN) New 52-Week High's Amid Breakthrough Discoveries and Strategic Growth see more stocks inside....

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LOS ANGELES — Kendrick Lamar gave music listeners an early holiday present Friday with the surprise drop of a new album. The Grammy winner's 12-track "GNX" is the rapper's first release since 2022's "Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers" and his sixth studio album overall. It also comes just months after his rap battle with Drake. Lamar first teased the album with a cover art of "GNX," which features multi-instrumentalist Jack Antonoff as a co-producer on every track except for "Peekaboo." Other notable producers includes Sounwave and DJ Mustard, who both contributed production on the hit "Not Like Us," the ubiquitous diss track emanating from the Drake feud. Lamar's former Top Dawg Entertainment labelmate SZA appears on a couple songs including "Gloria" and "Luther," which also features sampled vocals from Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn through "If This World Were Mine." On the opening track "Wacced Out Murals," Lamar raps about cruising in his Buick GNX (Grand National Experimental) car with listening to Anita Baker. He brings up Snoop Dogg posting Drake's AI-assisted "Taylor Made Freestyle" diss track on social media and Nas congratulating Lamar for being selected to headline February's Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show in New Orleans. Lamar also shows admiration for Lil Wayne, who expressed his hurt feelings after being passed over as the headliner in his hometown. Lamar, 37, has experienced massive success since his debut album "good kid, m.A.A.d city" in 2012. Since then, he's accumulated 17 Grammy wins and became the first non-classical, non-jazz musician to win a Pulitzer Prize for his 2017 album "DAMN." The surprise release caps a big year for the Lamar, who featured on the song "Like That" with Future and Metro Boomin — a track that spent three weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 this year. Lamar is up for seven Grammys, fueled by "Not Like Us," which earned nods for record and song of the year, rap song, music video as well as best rap performance. He has two simultaneous entries in the latter category, a career first: "Like That" is up for best rap performance and best rap song, too.1. A set of delightfully ~~tingly~~ self-heating soothing foot masks made with Epsom salts, lavender, and peppermint perfect for anyone whose recent step count is "too many." Nothing like a lil' vacation for those aching feet to lift your spirits! Check out a TikTok of the foot masks in action. I'm a long-ish distance runner, and these were certainly an interesting experience for my feet! You slide them on and, after a few minutes, feel a tingling, mildly burning (in a good way) sensation. It doesn't quite numb your feet, but it relaxes them. I kept them on for 30 minutes and then toweled my feet off, and the tingling sensation slowly faded over the next 30 minutes. After that, my feet felt very refreshed and relaxed at a time of day when they're usually aching from all the miles I put in. The whole thing was a mess-free, easy process, and I will definitely keep them on hand for longer run days! Promising review: "Very soothing. My husband and l used these on our European vacation, and they definitely felt good on our feet!" — KS2018 Get a set of three pairs from Amazon for $11.97 . 2. A Baccarat Rouge 540-inspired moisturizing body wash infused with white jasmine, red currant, and sweet amber that reviewers swear by for a cheap alternative to keep that delectably luxe scent on them all day long. Nothing wrong with smelling a lil' ~~expensive~~! I bought this after being peer pressured by all the lovely reviews and I'm happy to report it lives up to the hype. The scent is lovely — it has depth with a hint of floral, but it's light and not at all overpowering . My favorite thing about it is how easily it pairs other scents, because I am a body mist gremlin who swaps out her scents every day. The lather is also deeply satisfying and I feel quite refreshed and squeaky clean without ever feeling dry. Promising review : "TikTok item, lol. This did not disappoint! It’s so hard to find so when I saw Amazon had it back in stock, I purchased it! It smells so good." — Contessa Get it from Amazon for $9.99 . 3. A NeeDoh Nice Cube , an *elite* quiet sensory fidget toy – this goo-filled, delightfully colorful fidget has a satisfying squish and weight to it, and reviewers love that it doesn't have the kind of stickiness that picks up debris and makes it hard to clean. Schylling is a small business that specializes in modern and retro toys, games, and sets. Check out a TikTok of the Needoh in action (where users are suggesting to try ~freezing~ it for even a completely different texture). Promising review: "High quality and very durable! This cube is fantastic for any age and any need. The cube provides slight resistance when compressed, which is both stress-relieving and satisfying!!! Once squeezed, it quickly returns to its natural shape. A great choice!" — Joe stevenson Get it from Amazon for $8.99 (the color is either blue, pink, or purple and gets selected for you at random!). 4. Kahi Wrinkle Bounce Hydrating Multi-Balm , a Korean beauty product that has recently taken TikTok by storm — this easy peasy all-in-one moisturizer for your face, lips, eyes, *and* neck is formulated with salmon complex and collagen to help reduce fine lines and boost radiance. Reviewers especially love how instant the hydration feels, and swear by it for that ~glass skin~, "just out of the shower" effect. Check out a TikTok of the wrinkle balm in action. Promising review: "Okay! So I was skeptical at first, but honestly, this stick is life-changing!! ! In a matter of minutes, my skin felt hydrated and plumped. After an hour, still hydrated. No greasy after feeling, very light, and you can feel your skin hydrated and absorbing. I love the fact that you can use it on your eyes, lips, and wrinkles!! Game changer for me, will def try the others!" — Kristy Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in six styles). 5. A deep exfoliating shower back scrubber so soothing and effective that it won't be long before all your friends are like, "Wow, remember when they talked about something other than how squeaky clean their back feels?" A lot of reviewers with dry skin and keratosis pilaris swear by this for relief! Dermasuri is a small business that specializes in skincare and personal care products. Check out a TikTok of the back scrubber in action. Promising review: "I used this back scrubber the day after it arrived, and I love it. Finally, I have an easy-to-use and more effective way to scrub my back. I saw the dead skin fall to the shower floor. Wow! And it easily rinsed cleaned, too." — Naomi M. Get it from Amazon for $18.79 . 6. A HappyLight sunlamp that will be both a literal and metaphorical ~light of your life~ — this adjustable light can help improve your sleep, mood, and energy levels, particularly if you're vibing in a spot where you don't get a lot of direct sunlight. Read more about sunlamps and seasonal affective disorder (SAD) at Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic . Check out a TikTok of the HappyLight in action. Promising review: "I work from home at night. I never see the light of day during the winter. This light has been a joy to have and gives great light at my desk to work with, with the benefit of mimicking sun exposure. It’s very easy to use and to replace bulbs." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $49.99 (clip the $10 off coupon on the product page for this price). 7. Or a dimmable sad duck nightlight because sometimes you just have to look at this emotionally deflated creature on your desk and be like, "Welp. At least I'm doing better than that little dude." Check out a TikTok of the duck night-light in action. Promising review : "I ordered this lamp because of its appearance. I didn't NEED a depressed duck lamp ... but it has totally filled a void in my life I didn't know existed. Everyone who sees it pokes it. The lamp is actually very functional. It's got a really nice set of brightness options and the glow is yellowish, which is much nicer than white in a dim/dark room. One thing that isn't mentioned in the description is that its legs are utterly floppy. It's terrific." — Literated Get it from Amazon for $12.79 . 8. E.l.f.'s new sheer tint, hyaluronic acid-infused moisturizing "Squeeze Me" lip balm that comes in flavors like Vanilla Frosting, Honeydew, and Peach. It is 2024, and we deserve an affordable way to perpetually taste like birthday cake!! I love love love this lip balm. I compare it to the $24 version from Summer Fridays, which I've been splurging on — I love that brand because it lasts so long and is so high quality, but this $4 E.l.f. version feels comparable and, more excitingly, comes in smaller versions so I can stock my totes and bathroom with them whether I'm at home or on the go. It's hydrating, lightweight, doesn't get sticky, and adds a perfect ~subtle~ gloss whether I'm using it alone or on top of a lip color. I love the vanilla flavor so much, it's got a similar vibe to the birthday cake flavor that Glossier sometimes carries. Promising review: "I have one in my car, one in my purse, and one at home. These just feel so good on your lips! The flavors are very true to their name. They are pretty small though, so if you use it often it won’t last long (which is another reason I have three of them), but for $4 each it is worth it. I sometimes like using this before putting on the E.l.f. Lip Reviver Oil . Such a great base to an awesome lip oil!" — Jax "i got this product because of the hype of it on TikTok. This lip balm smells SO GOOD. And hydrated my lips." — kayla Get it from Amazon for $4 (available in five flavors). 9. A pack of cult-favorite Clean Skin Club Clean Towels — these ultra-soft, chemical-free disposable towels are ideal for drying your face or pairing with a makeup remover or face wash to gently remove makeup at the end of the day. A lot of folks with sensitive skin *swear* by these, particularly because it helps prevent exposing their skin to bacteria that may collect in ordinary reusable towels. Clean Skin Club is a US-based small business specializing in hygienic, vegan, and cruelty-free skincare products. Promising review: "I absolutely love these. I saw these on TikTok and bought them. I will be buying more. They are great for my face. Really soft and VERY durable and strong, even when wet. You can wash your face [with it] or just dry your face, either way, it’s the best option." — Sahara Get a pack of 50 from Amazon for $17.95 (available in other pack sizes). 10. Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel , a cult-fave product for your beauty arsenal that will quickly help minimize eye puffiness and swelling thanks to its winning combo of caffeine and hyaluronic acid. It's basically an alarm clock for your eyeballs, because boy howdy are they awake now!! Good Molecules is a small business that specializes in affordable skincare products. Promising review: "I love this product and have noticed a huge difference when using it consistently. I am on the younger side and don’t have the worst under-eye bags, but on those occasional mornings when my eyes are puffy with somewhat visible dark circles, this product definitely does the trick! Honestly love all the Good Molecules products." — Hayden Smith "Saw this on TikTok and decided to give it a try since the price was amazing. OMG, buy it. I’ve always had dark circles under my eyes and now fine lines and crow's-feet. While this doesn’t completely eliminate my dark circles, the fine lines are really diminished . It wears extremely well under makeup and doesn’t feel cakey, or like there’s a ton of product on ." — K. Grant Get it from Amazon for $5.99 . 11. A sleek time-marked water bottle that says "hydration, but make it chic." Reviewers love this bottle not just for the chic frosted, minimalist look, but because it's super lightweight, leakproof, and motivational re: keeping yourself fully watered. Promising review: "Saw it on TikTok and thought it would be a great bottle for work. It is very sleek and lightweight enough to carry when you have other items in your hand. I love the modern look and cleans very easily! The time increments really do motivate, definitely ordering again for myself and gifts. Fast delivery and very nice packaging." — Rosa Get it from Amazon for $16.99 (available in three colors and two sizes). 12. A bottle of Elizavecca Hair Treatment , an Olaplex-like repairing mask infused with collagen ingredients and protein extracts that will help restore hair health and reduce shedding. All you gotta do is apply it on wet hair after a shampoo, wait five minutes, and rinse it out. This is designed to work on all hair types, with reviewers with 2b to 4c curls mentioning it worked for them! Promising review: "I saw this on TikTok, and in between other compares products that were four times the price, I decided to bite the bullet and buy this — let me tell you, best decision ever! I shampooed my hair, then heavily massaged this in, from ends to scalp. The carton says 5–20 minutes... But I ended up leaving it in for two days! And after washing it out, my hair was so shiny, bouncy and CURLY! My curl recovery journey has been long, but this has helped restore so much vibrance and shape to my hair . My mom has been stealing it from my bathroom every couple of days, after having similar results on her hair. Going to need to buy a few more to ward her off." — curlyhead3 Check out BuzzFeed's full Elizavecca hair treatment review for more deets! Get a bottle from Amazon for $8.70 . 13. The cult-fave CeraVe Skin Renewing night cream made with a rockstar blend of niacinamide, peptide complex, and hyaluronic acid to give you the softest, most hydrated skin of your human life, per THOUSANDS of happy reviewers and TikTokers singing its praises. Promising review: "Yes yes yes! I recently found CeraVe due to dermatologist reviews on TikTok and I am not disappointed! I’ve always had oily, acne-prone skin and CeraVe has shown me it was also super sensitive. These products are so gentle but work very well. I am still going through the purge (getting rid of all the gross stuff that was under the skin) but can already tell a big difference in my skin texture. " — Alicia Reid Get it from Amazon for $17.44 . 14. A pair of chic wireless headband headphones to keep your ears toasty warm listening to music during outdoor workouts or long walks. Promising reviews : "This is a great product for running outdoors or hiking! In some circumstances, ears can get cold very quickly and cause ear pain or ringing outdoors. The cloth lining here has been very helpful in reducing these side-effects. The band is also more comfortable than earbuds for casual listening in my opinion. Sound leaks through at loud volumes so it is best used in a casual setting or outdoors. The band is very easy to clean in the washing machine." — LL "TikTok made me buy it! I’ve been using Bluetooth headphones and switching every time I turn over. This thing is amazing! Worth every penny. Easy to connect and the charging port hides in a slit in the fabric and you can’t feel it at all. I kind of thought the headphones would be less conspicuous or padded around them, but they weren’t uncomfortable and I had no issues." — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $16.99 (clip the 20% off coupon on the product page for this price; available in nine colors). 15. A "Through The Seasons" Reverse Coloring Book , which is a newer edition of the original Reverse Coloring Book that took the internet by storm — reviewers swear by this easy, calming artistic outlet to help ease their anxiety, relieve stress, and unleash their inner creativity without taking up too much brainpower. For those new to the concept — instead of adding the color to these, you add the lines to create images within the colors. Sort of like a Rorschach test, but make it whimsical. Check out a TikTok of the reverse coloring book in action. Promising review : "Kendra Norton’s beautiful art books, Reverse Coloring books, have changed my world! My whole life I thought I was not creative and therefore had zero artistic ability. Now, this has become my favorite form of artistic expression. I turn on music and/or an audiobook and allow myself to go for an adventure outside of my mind, beyond my mind, if you will. T his has become my favorite way to process through difficult emotions and experiences I’m working through ." — K. DeWitt Get it from Amazon for $8.29 . (Psst — check out these cult-fave black fine point pens for $8.99 on Amazon for a good doodling option!) 16. A ridiculously soft oversized hoodie reviewers compare to $$ brands like Skims, Aritzia, and Abercrombie. You know how on TikTok sometimes people say "this hoodie hoodies" like it's a noun and a verb? Enter this cult-favorite, reviewer-beloved hoodie, which does, in fact, hoodie. Promising review: "I’m obsessed with this hoodie. I’ve been looking for a warm, soft hoodie with a big hood for a long time. This quality is excellent and feels more expensive. It is an oversized fit. I usually wear an XL top and sometimes L. The large fit perfectly! I want one in every color now." — LindsayW Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in women's sizes XXS–3X and 39 colors). 17. A cult-favorite luxury-scented candle with a throw so satisfying and scent profile so ~mesmerizing~ that reviewers can't stop gushing about it. If you're in the market for a signature scent for your space, look no further than this jasmine, oud, and sandalwood blend. Lulu Candles is a US-based small business that specializes in scented candles and perfumes. Check out a TikTok of the candle in action. Promising review : "I was staying over at a friend's house and sitting next to her coffee table. She had this candle on the table and even though it wasn't lit I could smell it, and it was so delicious that I instantly went online to find it and bought it for myself! If this came in a perfume, I would buy enough to last the rest of my life. I don't know how to even explain the scent but if you are an amber/patchouli/vanilla fan, this is absolutely for you. The jasmine adds an unbelievable freshness without a flowery scent . I even bought the shampoo and conditioner which I will probably use as more of a body wash and shaving cream but that is how desperate I am to get this scent on me! " — Melissa I. Get it from Amazon for $19.95+ (available in three sizes, in gift box options, in packs of two, and in a variety of scents). 18. A Skims-esque loungewear set so soft and decadent that you'll just declare it your new uniform, with the couch as your throne. Promising review: "No joke, these are pretty much exactly the same as my Skims lounge set for half the price . The pants graze the tops of my feet even when I wear them high-waisted at my belly button, so I think they’re plenty long. The robe is like wearing a blanket, but still looks put together. Anyway, I’m back here to buy a second color because I loved them so much !" — Jenna "Couldn't believe a TikTok recommendation could be this amazing! We got it as a gift, and our daughter absolutely adores it. I never get the right gift for her because she's super picky, but this was a stunner!" — Kaye Get the three-piece set from Amazon for $54.99 (available in women's sizes S–XL and in 22 colors). 19. A copy of Burn After Writing , a guided journal that tens of thousands of reviewers swear by — through a series of questions and thought experiments, it encourages people to take time away from their screens to explore their feelings, both new and old, so they can embrace meaningful ones and try to let others go. Promising review: "I first saw this book on TikTok and decided to look more into it. I purchased four total because I know some people holding onto things that are difficult to let go of. It’s a great way to look at things from a different perspective and truly hold yourself accountable to different things in your life. I love what it stands for, and I look forward to when I burn mine after I’m done. Self-love, self-care, and meditation for a better state of mind tomorrow are always the goal. I definitely recommend it to those susceptible to change and the willingness to try things differently ." — Brent Helm Get it from Amazon for $7.70 . 20. A pair of horizontal glasses , because not being able to watch Netflix and starfish on your bed simultaneously feels like a scam. Now you can out-scam it. Promising review: "I saw these on a couple of TikTok videos and immediately bought them. They are literally the best thing I’ve ever bought. I was scared they wouldn't fit over my glasses but they do just fine. I use them to read, watch TV, and scroll through my social media all while lying down. Such a great buy!" — Kivy Get them from Amazon for $13.99 . 21. And a heated eye massager with so many bells and whistles, it's worth the investment and *then* some — not only does it come with five different massage modes and a 15-minute timer, but it has Bluetooth music so you can vibe with your eyes *and* your ears. Reviewers swear by this to help combat eye strain, headaches, puffy under-eye circles, and dry eyes, and insomnia. Promising review : "I saw this product on one of Amazon’s must-have TikTok videos, and I knew I had to get it. It was so worth it — even though the price may seem higher compared to other sellers, this is for sure a good investment piece. The quality is top-notch, the strap that goes around your head is comfortable, and most importantly, the duration of each mode is long enough that it doesn’t interrupt your rest. I work a 12-hour night shift as a nurse, and this technology has helped me get through the night easily.👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽" — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $55.99 (available in three colors). 22. Eos' Shea Butter Vanilla Cashmere body lotion , which TikTok is going *feral* over both because of the lightweight, long-lasting moisture, and the soothing, delicious smell that reviewers compare to more expensive brands like Philosophy and Bath & Body Works. Promising review: "Heaven sent for your skin; heavenly scent to enjoy. This feels absolutely amazing going on. Gets absorbed quickly, for a lotion rich with oil. Doesn't leave a greasy feeling, as long as you give it a minute or two to fully absorb. The scent is, for me anyway, like aromatherapy. It smells like an iced sugar cookie, and is a great base layer for fragrance. Very relaxing. " — Dragonheart Jo "Better than TikTok said! OMRyan Gosling, this is an amazing lotion!!! Run, don’t walk, and buy this lotion! The name is vanilla cashmere and that is exactly what this is! Love love love!" — DeeDra Billings Get it from Amazon for $8.98 (available in various scents and packs). 23. A set of wildly popular moisture-wicking double-brushed microfiber sheets with a softness so luxurious that you'll be like, "Cotton whomst?? " Reviewers especially love that the "cooling" effect of these is no joke, particularly for people in hot climates or people experiencing night sweats and hot flashes. LuxClub is a small business that specializes in soft, durable, luxury-style sheets. P romising review : “LOVE THESE!! I was searching for a sheet set that would help me sleep more comfortably at night and found these. I have terrible hot flashes with night sweats and get up in the morning, just miserable. Of course, these do not eliminate my hot flashes as no sheets will, but they definitely make my nights much more comfortable by eliminating wet bedding, and I definitely appreciate that! Aside from their moisture-wicking abilities, they are very soft, easy to look at, and launder extremely well. I would highly recommend these for anyone shopping for sheet sets and especially for anyone experiencing night sweats!! ” — Shannon Warfel "Super soft, great quality, good price. Saw these advertised on TikTok and had them sitting in my cart for months . My sister bought a set, and when I felt how soft, I immediately bought them." — Donna Baker Get it from Amazon for $34.95+ (available in sizes Twin—California King, with deep pockets, and in 35 styles). 24. And a "holy grail" Coop Home Goods pillow designed for side, back, *and* stomach sleepers to get the best shut-eye of their lives. This medium-firm pillow has an entirely adjustable memory foam fill so you can mold it to the exact firmness, size, and shape you need. In other words: this is the One Pillow that will serve you well for a long, long time. Coop Sleep Goods is a small business specializing in pillows, pillowcases, and sleep products. Promising review: "I hardly ever write reviews but I have to for this. I saw this pillow on TikTok and it got me curious so I immediately came to Amazon. OMG, it’s such a game changer. I’m a side sleeper and this pillow is heaven . It’s some of the most comfortable sleep I have had in ages. I love it so much I bought a second one and have my eye on the body pillow. Obsessed! You need this in your bedroom." — MT Get it from Amazon for $60+ (available in two sizes and three shapes). 25. Aaaaand a set of satin pillowcases that not only have a cooling effect, but are soft on your skin and create less friction for your hair so it won't get as tangled while you sleep. Promising review: "My hair has never been better! I got this because of TikTok and it has done wonders for my hair. My hair isn’t frizzy or dull looking when I get up in the morning." — Aaron Key Get a set of two from Amazon for $9.99 (available in 37 colors and five sizes). 26. A pretty pastel mug warmer to keep your tea and coffee warm on days when you're burrowed so far under your blankets that it feels like a law against nature to make a trip to the microwave. Promising review : "I researched so many coffee warmers and am so glad I decided on this one. It definitely keeps my coffee hot, no matter how long it takes me to drink it. I also like that it has three settings. As you drink down your coffee, you can lower the heat because it keeps the coffee very hot. I like it so much I ordered a second one for another part of the house." — hottytoddy Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in eight colors). 27. A gentle bubbly clay mask designed to help remove blackheads and minimize the appearance of pores, but most importantly to let you cosplay as a happy lil' cloud. Check out a TikTok of the foaming mask in action. Promising review: "I love this stuff! I received some for a gift and then purchased it for my daughter from Amazon. It feels like a clay mask going on, and then starts bubbling and turns to a thinner substance when it's done. I feel like it is very gentle on my face. My skin feels amazing after I wash it off. It feels like I used moisturizer, even though I did not. I hear that these masks are very popular in Japan." — L. Shea Get it from Amazon for $8.65 (available in packs of one, two, and three). 28. A game-changing deep exfoliating shower glove reviewers swear by for everything from brightening skin to handling keratosis pilaris flare-ups to prepping themselves to get or remove color from spray tans. If you thought your skin was soft before ... BOY HOWDY you're gonna need some moments alone ~feeling yourself~ after you've exfoliated with this. Dermasuri is a small business that specializes in skincare and personal care products. To use, soften skin with warm water for five to ten minutes, and then scrub wet *without* the use of soap. Promising review: "Seriously thought this thing was a hoax and just another TikTok trend. But my jaw hit the floor when I used this and say just how much dead skin and whatever the heck else came off my body with this!! My body feels so fresh and clean after using this product! So easy and so worth it!!" — Lauren Get it from Amazon for $14.99 . 29. A belted portable cordless vibrating heating pad to ease your cramps and pains (*glares pointedly at my uterus*) and/or keep you nice and cozy on chillier days. The fact that it looks vaguely like a piece of superhero armor is just an added perk. Check out a TikTok of the heating pad in action. Reviewers note you should definitely wear it *over* your clothes! Promising review : "Oh my god. This might be the best thing I have ever bought. It gets so incredibly warm. You do need to wear it over clothes to prevent burns but as someone who never finds any heat pack warm enough the lowest setting is exceptionally hot. As someone who has really bad menstrual cramps and chronic constipation this little belt does it all. The heat is so soothing and adjustable and heats up so fast . The vibration is my favorite part. It helps so much with trapped gas and bloating pains. The various patterns and heat combinations allow this to be truly customizable to however you feel at the time and it’s fantastic. Absolutely worth every cent." — Chloe Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in 11 colors). 30. A weighted Bearaby napper that answers the question of, "What would it look like if a blanket had magic sleep-inducing powers?" This breathable chunky knit blanket is designed with a comforting weight to help soothe anxiety and promote calm, making it easier not just to fall asleep, but *stay* asleep. Check out a TikTok of the Bearaby blanket in action. I've been using this weighted blanket for about three years now and what I find really remarkable about it is that I *never* feel overheated in it . It's also just so, SO soft, and looks absolutely beautiful at the foot of my bed where I leave it every night. It definitely helps me activate "sleep mode" at night — I find the weight very comforting and not at all stifling, because it spreads so evenly. Promising review: "I’m in love with my this blanket! It is absolutely gorgeous and has made a remarkable difference in my sleeping habits. If you are even thinking about a weighted blanket, this is a MUST! Just do it! You will only wish you’d done it sooner!" — Sandy Psst — to choose a style, Bearaby recommends a blanket that is about ten percent of your body weight. Get it from Bearaby for $199+ (available in four weights and six colors). 31. And a cult-favorite Drowsy sleep mask , aka the Cadillac of sleep masks – this face-hugging, padded mask is meant to function like a protective cocoon for your eyes, both by blocking out the light *and* preventing creases and skin moisture with its silk exterior. Reviewers love that it is easy to use no matter what position they sleep in, and it never tangles in their hair. Check out a TikTok of the sleep mask in action. Promising review : "I don’t write reviews often unless I really love something, and let me tell you, this sleep mask is AMAZING. I’m a night shift nurse and was on the hunt for a good sleep mask. I’m mainly a stomach sleeper and occasional side sleeper and nothing I found was working. Until I found the Drowsy mask!! I was hesitant because of the price tag... but it is worth every penny! Invest in your sleep! T his mask is 100% blackout, the silk is soft and luxurious, and it doesn’t put any pressure on my nose. I can sleep on my stomach comfortably with this mask on and it doesn’t move. The strap is also adjustable and very comfortable. If you need a sleep mask, look no further, this is the one to get !" — Jolene Wahl Get it from Amazon for $79 (available in 13 styles). 32. A set of collagen-infused forehead patches to deeply hydrate your skin and improve its elasticity to minimize fine lines and give you a ~refreshed~ vibe when you wake up in the morning. Promising review: "The patches work great, I could see difference just after few uses. They stick really good and stay on all night. They feel cool and soothing and I love how easy they are to use. Highly recommend!" — M. Brinson Get a set of 12 from Amazon for $17.97 . 33. A light up rain cloud essential oil diffuser that looks like it was pulled out of your dizziest daydreams. Reviewers especially love how soothing the color changes and sounds of the water flow are. (And that both are fully adjustable!) Check out a TikTok of the rain cloud diffuser in action. Promising review : "Love it! It’s so super cute! We call it our shroomcloud. It's peaceful and the mood changing colors are the best! I love hearing the subtle sound of water. Ahhh, zen! Works great as a diffuser with a few drops of your favorite essential oils, too." — Krissy Get it from Amazon for $39.98 . 34. A popular rose quartz jade roller and gua sha set reviewers use to relieve muscle tension in their face to help relax. A lot of people also swear by these to reduce puffiness and firm their skin, and especially love using it chilly after it's been in the fridge! The product page has instructions for use, and the set also comes with a little booklet! Promising review: "Love this! I saw the idea on TikTok and wanted to try it out. I notice a difference in my skin and jawline after a few uses. I use it with Palmer’s skin therapy oil !" — Georgia Kiko Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in six colors). 35. Dr Teal's Sleep Spray with melatonin to help wind you down for the night when your unsuspecting circadian rhythms are disrupted by life, by the seasons changing, or any other miscellaneous sleep chaos. All you have to do is spray this on your pillow before bed for a relaxing sleep vibe. Check out a TikTok of the melatonin spray in action. Promising review: "A coworker suggested this product because I have a tough time falling asleep and do not want to take sleep meds. This smells incredible and, for me, has really worked. It’s a little shocking actually as I didn’t have big expectations for it. I’m on my second bottle however and both my boyfriend and I really enjoy it." — Amazon Customer Get a pack of three from Amazon for $17.61 . 36. A lil' reversible octopus plush that is, literally and figuratively, a Mood — you can prop this on your desk or somewhere in your home just to let everyone know how you're vibin' (or even just to check in with yourself ❤️). Also, these come in a TON of different colors and emotions (from angry to sad to, uh, murderous??), so you're guaranteed to find one to express yourself. Promising review: "I saw this on TikTok like everyone else but I quickly realized, when I got one, how helpful this is to my family. Now they don't have to guess when they shouldn't bother me, they'll just KNOW. It's saving lives and it's adorable. The perfect thing. :)" — MCalms Get it from Amazon for $10.49 (available in 22 styles). Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.6 of the Best Cryptocurrencies You Can Buy This December for the Biggest Profits in 2025

Today’s Career horoscope promises opportunities for growth and success in professional endeavors. Whether you're tackling new projects or navigating workplace challenges, the day’s energy supports focus and determination. Some signs may experience breakthroughs in their careers, while others may find value in networking and collaboration. Stay driven and open to possibilities! Aries Your determination and confidence are at their peak today, making it an excellent time to tackle challenging tasks. Avoid confrontations with colleagues, as impulsive reactions might cause unnecessary tension. If you're in a leadership role, take extra care to motivate your team without being overly demanding. Networking opportunities might arise, so stay professional and approachable. Taurus Focusing on a well-organized plan will help you complete pending tasks efficiently. Avoid procrastination, as delays may create unnecessary stress. Collaborative projects will bring out your strengths, and your steady approach will impress your superiors. Financial decisions made today will likely yield long-term benefits, so consider budgeting or investment options carefully. Gemini Your communication skills are your biggest asset today, so use them wisely in meetings or presentations. Be cautious not to overcommit, as multitasking might lead to errors. Brainstorming sessions with your team can result in innovative solutions. If you're job-seeking, your adaptability will open up diverse opportunities. Stay focused, and success will follow. Cancer Your creativity and intuition will shine in the workplace today, making it a great time to pitch new ideas or tackle complex problems. Support from colleagues will boost your confidence, so don't hesitate to seek advice. Avoid taking on too many responsibilities at once. Prioritizing tasks will ensure steady progress and a sense of accomplishment. Leo Your natural leadership skills will help you stand out at work today. Take the initiative in team projects, but be mindful of appearing overly controlling. Opportunities to mentor others may arise, showcasing your expertise. Financially, avoid impulsive expenditures related to work tools or training. Stay focused on your goals, and recognition will follow. Virgo Your analytical abilities are in top form today, making it an ideal time to resolve issues that require precision and attention to detail. Avoid micromanaging your team, as it may create friction. A structured approach to your daily tasks will help you stay productive. Job-seekers may find success in fields requiring research or critical thinking. Libra Harmony in the workplace will be your focus today. Your diplomatic approach can help resolve conflicts among colleagues or improve team dynamics. Be cautious with deadlines, as distractions might slow you down. If you're job-seeking, creative industries or roles involving negotiation might offer exciting opportunities. Stay balanced and prioritize wisely. Scorpio Your determination and focus will help you overcome obstacles today. Challenges may arise, but your resourceful nature will guide you through. Consider taking on new responsibilities to showcase your abilities. Job-seekers might attract roles in startups or innovative industries. Keep your emotions in check, as a calm demeanor will work in your favor. Sagittarius A sense of adventure will inspire you to explore new career avenues today. Take calculated risks, but ensure you have a solid backup plan. Collaborative efforts will yield positive results, especially in creative fields. If you're job-seeking, roles involving travel or teaching may be promising. Maintain optimism, and success will follow. Capricorn Your disciplined nature will help you manage your workload effectively today. Focus on long-term goals, as your efforts will bring steady progress. Avoid overworking yourself; balance is key to sustaining productivity. Job-seekers may find success in traditional industries like banking or administration. Trust your instincts when making important career decisions. Aquarius Your innovative mindset will help you stand out in the workplace today. Share your unique ideas, as they might lead to exciting opportunities or recognition. Be cautious with financial dealings related to work. If you're job-seeking, roles in technology or social causes may align with your skills. Stay authentic and visionary. Pisces Your empathetic approach will help you connect with colleagues and clients today. Creative industries or artistic projects will thrive under your leadership. Avoid getting overwhelmed by emotions when handling criticism. Job-seekers might find success in roles requiring imagination and adaptability. Stay focused, and your efforts will yield meaningful progress. Also See: Horoscope Predictions for 2025 Aries Horoscope 2025Taurus Horoscope 2025Gemini Horoscope 2025Cancer Horoscope 2025Leo Horoscope 2025Virgo Horoscope 2025Libra Horoscope 2025Scorpio Horoscope 2025Sagittarius Horoscope 2025Capricorn Horoscope 2025Aquarius Horoscope 2025Pisces Horoscope 2025 Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Astrology and around the world.STAR CORRESPONDENT While wins have been hard to come by for the Elizabethton Lady Cyclones, there is no doubt that the effort being given is starting to show evidence that wins may start outweighing losses after the Christmas holiday. Battling the visiting Lady Hilltoppers from Science Hill tooth and nail throughout, the Lady Cyclones found themselves once again on the short end of a 10-point loss, 66-56 . The score is a little misleading, as the Lady Cyclones battled to within six points on a couple of different occasions before their runs were thwarted when the Lady ‘Toppers found success behind the three-point arc. Elizabethton trailed 36-26 at the intermission, as Kaylee Oler set the tone for the visitors by scoring nine points in the half. Allie Conner added seven points, while Khloe Sommers dropped five in the first 16 minutes. Jamira Smalls led Coach Lucas Andrews’ Lady Cyclones in the first half, scoring eight points. Senior Kayelyn Nave added seven points to help keep Elizabethton in contention. The second half couldn’t have been played closer, as each team logged 30 points apiece , giving the game its final 10-point difference at the final horn. Oler continued her hot start from the first half, finishing with a game-high 21 points to lead the Lady ‘Toppers. Science Hill also got double-figure scoring from Sommers, who finished with 12 points . Nave led the home team with a team-high 14 points , while Smalls finished with 10 . Peyton McGee played a contributing role, adding nine points for Elizabethton, with Jasy Shell finishing with eight points . Other Lady Cyclone scorers included Rylee May ( 4 ), Sydney Minton ( 4 ), Adrian Heading ( 3 ), Reagan May ( 3 ), and Aerryan Fleenor ( 1 ).

President-elect Trump’s crushing reelection victory has driven much of the corporate media into despair, including Lesley Stahl and Van Jones. Tee hee. Van Jones is a far-left contributor at CNN, which is itself a far-left misinformation outlet that spreads conspiracy theories and promotes political violence. The disgraced Lesly Stahl hails from 60 Minutes, which is from a fake news outlet that, in an effort to rig the 2020 presidential election, lied about Hunter Biden’s laptop being Russian disinformation. 60 Minutes is a CBS News production, the same CBS News that rigged this year’s vice presidential debate. This might be a good place to stop, lay aside our political differences, and, as human being to human being, thank Van Jones and Lesley Stahl for the contributions they have personally made to destroy the influence and credibility of the legacy media. Normal People will never be able to thank them enough for exposing just how dishonorable and dishonest the media are. Anyway... Here’s Van Jones admitting that the “mainstream [media] has become the fringe and the fringe has become mainstream” through alternative media, especially podcasts. “There are people out there getting 14 million streams,” Jones admitted, “and we’re on cable news getting one or two million. The political class is way off.” And here is the comically pompous Lesley Stahl despairing over the same: “I’m extremely worried about the press. I despair. I worry greatly. We’re at the point where if [ sic ] the POTUS is going to say ‘Legacy media is dead.’ I’m very dark about it.” Eat it, sweetheart. If the knowledge that Lesley Stahl is despairing and in a dark place does not make you want to stand up and cheer, you must be a feminist. You see, throughout the 2024 campaign, the corporate media were Bruce Willis in The Sixth Sense . They didn’t know they were dead. Being ignorant of their own death, they played all their usual games assuming it would drag Kamala Harris — Celebrity Obama 2.0 — over the finish line. Stahl’s own 60 Minutes went so far as to dishonestly edit Kamala’s interview to make her sound smart. Van Jones’ own CNN raged on and on about Trump’s “Nazi rally” at Madison Square Garden and spread the hoax about Trump calling for Liz Cheney’s execution. Then... The “too big to rig” results came in on Election Night and it finally hit them: We’re dead . No one believes us anymore. Our influence is gone. We can’t rig elections anymore with our lies and hoaxes. Despair! Despair! Despair! Donald Trump visiting podcast after podcast, doing Joe Rogan, sitting down for a handful of Breitbart News interviews, is as big a sea change in politics as when John F. Kennedy embraced television in 1960. Radio was declared dead. TV was king. Well, now, the legacy media is dead and alternative media is king. But there is one important difference between 1960 and 2025, and that’s this: The 1960 switch was based on technology, the difference in what radio and TV offered. The 2025 switch is based on the legacy media’s credibility implosion, in other words... Springfield Bomb Threat Hoax Trump Called for Liz Cheney to Be Executed Hoax Violent Crime Down Under Biden/Harris Hoax Arlington Cemetery Hoax Kamala Was Never America’s Border Czar Hoax Russia Collusion Hoax Hands Up, Don’t Shoot Hoax Jussie Smollett Hoax Covington KKKids Hoax Very Fine People Hoax Seven-Hour Gap Hoax Russian Bounties Hoax Trump Trashes Troops Hoax Policemen Killed at Mostly Peaceful January 6 Protest Hoax Rittenhouse Hoax Eating While Black Hoax Border Agents Whipping Illegals Hoax NASCAR Noose Hoax Georgia Jim Crow 2.0 Hoax Trump Assaulted Secret Service Agents and Grabbed Steering Wheel of Beast Hoax MAGA Assaulted Paul Pelosi Hoax COVID Lab Leak Theory Is Racist Hoax Hunter Biden’s Laptop Is Russian Disinformation Hoax Joe Biden Will Never Ban Gas Stoves Hoax COVID Deaths are Overcounted Is a Conspiracy Theory Hoax Mass Graves of Native Children in Canada Hoax Trump Killed Japanese Koi Fish Hoax Trump Told People to Drink Bleach Hoax Hamas Hospital Hoax If Reelected, Trump Will Execute People Hoax The 900,000 Kids Hospitalized with Coronavirus Hoax Dozens of Environmental Hoaxes The Alfa Bank Hoax Libs of TikTok Murdered Non-Binary Teen Hoax Aaron Rodgers Sandy Hook-Truther Hoax ‘Bloodbath’ Hoax Biden ‘Sharp-as-a-Tack’ Hoax Iowa Poll Hoax And now the legacy media is dead: A death by credibility suicide... A death by a thousand self-inflicted cuts... I saw it happen in real time this year as the fake media launched one dishonest attack after another against Trump only to see the lie or hoax or double standard immediately swatted away in alternative media. And I use the word “swatted” deliberately because it was that easy to debunk and correct the record. Why? Because we have the power now. Don’t get me wrong, these lying assholes in Big Media will always be around, but they have castrated themselves to a point where no one outside their asshole bubble listens anymore. What a wonderful thing to witness. FREE-FREE-FREE for the holidays: an autographed bookplate if you purchase John Nolte’s first and last novel, BORROWED TIME, between now and December 20. After you’ve made the purchase, email your request to JJMNOLTE at HOTMAIL dot COM with an address and any personalization requests. For example, something like; “To Rachel Levine: The sexiest man alive.” Borrowed Time , is winning five-star raves from everyday readers. You can read an excerpt here and an in-depth review here . Also available in hardcover and on Kindle and Audiobook .

How long can US stocks keep up this momentum?British Columbia Premier David Eby said Canada must approach Donald Trump's plan to impose a 25 per cent U.S. tariff on Canadian goods from a position of strength, as business, trade and community organizations called for quick action on the trade threat. Eby said premiers and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau would meet this week to discuss "our strategic approach" to the U.S. president-elect's plan to impose the tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports immediately after his inauguration on Jan. 20, unless action was taken to stem the cross-border flow of migrants and illegal drugs. The B.C. premier made the comments Tuesday in a speech to the annual convention of the B.C. Federation of Labour in Vancouver. "Obviously, this will be devastating to workers on both sides of the border," he said. "Both in the U.S. and in Canada, the impact on families will be profoundly significant." Canada and the U.S. have long been top trading partners, on imports as well as exports, and the strength of this relationship put Canada in a solid position when it came to Trump's tariff threat, Eby said. "We have more in common with Americans than what separates us," he said. "We buy more American stuff than France, than China and Japan and the United Kingdom combined. So, we are negotiating, I believe, from a position of strength." Eby called for a united Canadian approach to the proposed U.S. tariff. "We're going to stand together and we're going to ensure we negotiate from a position of strength and that we negotiate hard and ensure any decisions that are made are in the best interests of British Columbians and Canadians," he said. Eby acknowledged improvements could be made on Canada's border, especially when it came to policing contraband and illegal drugs. "We've called repeatedly, for example, for port police to ensure what comes into B.C. is not contraband, is not illicit drugs or precursor chemicals," he said. "These are things that we can do to make life better here in B.C., as well as respond to concerns that have been raised south of the border." Trump issued a statement on social media on Monday saying Canada and Mexico had the power to solve their border issues, which he called a "long simmering problem." Opposition B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad called for the immediate recall of the B.C. legislature Tuesday to provide funding to secure borders to stop the flow of illegal drugs and migrants. Business organizations in B.C. called on the provincial and federal government to immediately address Trump's tariff plan, which they said would will hurt businesses. The proposal would have significant consequences for B.C. businesses of all sizes and would harm communities and workers across the province, said Fiona Famulak, B.C. Chamber of Commerce president and chief executive officer. “Ottawa must take this news seriously and work proactively with representatives of the incoming U.S. administration immediately to address the issue before the tariffs are implemented," she said in a statement. "We cannot afford to wait until January to take action." The Metro Vancouver city of Surrey, which has two U.S. border crossings, said in a statement the proposed tariff would have severe implications for the city's business community. Most of B.C.'s manufacturing industry is located in Surrey and the city is also home to many thriving import-export-reliant businesses, which would face increased costs and potential job losses if the U.S. tariff was imposed, said Jasroop Gosal, Surrey Board of Trade spokesman. The B.C. Lumber Trade Council said the proposed tariff would hurt U.S. consumers and homebuyers by driving up the cost of building materials from Canada, while the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade said the U.S. was B.C.’s most important trading partner, accounting for 54 per cent of the province’s commodity exports in 2023. "It is imperative that we engage constructively with our U.S. counterparts to advance our collective interests," said Bridgitte Anderson, board of trade president and CEO. "This should act as a wake-up call to all levels of government that a new Team Canada approach is required," said Anderson. "We saw the reaction in the markets, and we saw the (Canadian) dollar fall. The shock waves were quite significant and we shouldn't underestimate what the impact of this could be." She said some of B.C.’s top exports to the U.S. are natural gas, softwood lumber, agricultural products, and minerals and metals. But some economists and policy analysts warned against falling for familiar Trump negotiation tactics. “He likes nothing more than to see his negotiating partners trembling in fear or running around screaming with their hair on fire," said Carlo Dade, trade and infrastructure director at the Alberta-based Canada West Foundation. "So, we need to react, but we need to do so with prudence, with firmness, with thought and without fear and panic." Prof. Nicolas Schmitt said the tariff proposal was a threat rather than a solid policy decision. “We should not panic about the 25 per cent threat right now," said Schmitt, who teaches economics at Simon Fraser University. "It's a bullying tactic. It's like bullying in the schoolyard." B.C. government data says the province's exports to the U.S. in the first half of 2024 were worth $16.9 billion, down 1.1 per cent compared to the same period last year. The U.S. is by far B.C.'s largest export destination, with mainland China in second place receiving goods worth $4.9 billion in the year to July, up 13.2 per cent. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 26, 2024. Dirk Meissner and Nono Shen, The Canadian Press

Harris has ‘no knowledge’ anyone tried to get RTE to take down viral clipNone

Tech companies led a broad rally for U.S. stocks Tuesday, a boost for the market in a holiday-shortened trading session. The S&P 500 rose 0.7%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 177 points, or 0.4%, as of 11:20 a.m. Eastern time. The tech-heavy Nasdaq composite was up 1%. Chip company Broadcom rose 2.6%, while semiconductor giant Nvidia, whose enormous valuation gives it an outsize influence on indexes, rose 1.1%. Super Micro Computer jumped 4.6%. Tesla climbed 5.2% for the biggest gain among S&P 500 stocks. Amazon.com rose 1.5% American Airlines slipped 0.4% after the airline briefly grounded flights nationwide due to a technical issue. U.S. Steel edged up 0.1% a day after an influential government panel failed to reach consensus on the possible national security risks of the nearly $15 billion proposed sale to Nippon Steel of Japan. NeueHealth surged 70.1% after the health care company agreed to be taken private in a deal valued at roughly $1.3 billion. Treasury yields rose in the bond market. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.62% from 4.59% late Monday. European markets were mostly higher. Markets in Asia mostly gained ground. U.S. markets will close at 1 p.m. Eastern and stay closed Wednesday for Christmas. Wall Street has several economic reports to look forward to this week, including a weekly update on unemployment benefits on Thursday. Tuesday’s rally comes as the stock market enters what’s historically been a very cheerful season. The last five trading days of each year, plus the first two in the new year, have brought an average gain of 1.3% since 1950. The so-called “Santa rally” also correlates closely with positive returns in January and the upcoming year. So far this month, the U.S. stock market has lost some of its gains since President-elect Donald Trump’s win on Election Day, which raised hopes for faster economic growth and more lax regulations that would boost corporate profits. Worries have risen that Trump’s preference for tariffs and other policies could lead to higher inflation , a bigger U.S. government debt and difficulties for global trade. Even so, the stock market remains on pace to deliver strong returns for 2024. The benchmark S&P 500 is up about 26% so far this year and remains within roughly 1.3% of the all-time high it set earlier this month — its latest of 57 record highs this year.

Tuesday's Transactions

LAS VEGAS (AP) — A team that previously boycotted at least one match against the San Jose State women's volleyball program will again be faced with the decision whether to play the school , this time in the Mountain West Conference semifinals with a shot at the NCAA Tournament on the line. Five schools forfeited matches in the regular season against San Jose State, which carried a No. 2 seed into the conference tournament in Las Vegas. Among those schools: No. 3 Utah State and No. 6 Boise State, who will face off Wednesday with the winner scheduled to play the Spartans in the semifinals on Friday. Wyoming, Nevada and Southern Utah — which is not a Mountain West member — also canceled regular-season matches, all without explicitly saying why they were forfeiting. Nevada players cited fairness in women’s sports as a reason to boycott their match, while political figures from Wyoming, Idaho, Utah and Nevada suggested the cancellations center around protecting women’s sports. In a lawsuit filed against the NCAA , plaintiffs cited unspecified reports asserting there was a transgender player on the San Jose State volleyball team, even naming her. While some media have reported those and other details, neither San Jose State nor the forfeiting teams have confirmed the school has a trans women’s volleyball player. The Associated Press is withholding the player’s name because she has not publicly commented on her gender identity and through school officials has declined an interview request. A judge on Monday rejected a request made by nine current conference players to block the San Jose State player from competing in the tournament on grounds that she is transgender. That ruling was upheld Tuesday by an appeals court. “The team looks forward to starting Mountain West Conference tournament competition on Friday,” San Jose State said in a statement issued after the appeals court decision. “The university maintains an unwavering commitment to the participation, safety and privacy of all students at San Jose State and ensuring they are able to compete in an inclusive, fair and respectful environment.” Chris Kutz, a Boise State athletics spokesman, said in an email the university would not “comment on potential matchups at this time.” Doug Hoffman, an Aggies athletics spokesman, said in an email Utah State is reviewing the court’s order. “Right now, our women’s volleyball program is focused on the game this Wednesday, and we’ll be cheering them on,” Hoffman wrote. San Jose State, which had a first-round bye, would be sent directly to the conference title game if Utah State or Boise State were to forfeit again. If the Spartans make the title game, it's likely the opponent would not forfeit. They would face top-seeded Colorado State, No. 4 Fresno State or No. 5 San Diego State — all teams that played the Spartans this season. The conference champion receives an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. AP college sports: https://apnews.com/hub/college-sports

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There's been a 36% increase in initial public offerings compared to 2023. Yet, despite the strong stock market rally, IPO activity remains below 2020 and 2021 levels. The top 10 IPO performers include Reddit and NANO Nuclear Energy, with significant returns. The IPO market picked up in 2024, with 210 companies going public this year. Many companies are still reluctant to embark on an initial public offering after the brutal bear market in 2022 shaved more than 20% off of the S&P 500. The hesitation remains, despite the fact that the stock market has soared since then, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 sitting at record highs and 2024 on track to see a second straight year of gains of over 25% for the benchmark index. About 40 companies have withdrawn their IPO filings this year, compared to seven that withdrew plans to go public in 2023. While 2024's IPO activity represents an increase of 36% compared to last year, it's still well below the IPO activity seen in 2020 and 2021, when 480 and 1,035 companies went public, respectively. Some of the biggest companies investors are waiting for to go public include Stripe, Klarna, CoreWeave, and SpaceX. Still, some well-known companies, including Reddit , Ibotta , and Rubrik , debuted on the public markets this year — and some of these companies have delivered massive share gains for investors. These are the top 10 performing IPOs of US-based companies in 2024, as of December 9. Ticker: RBRK IPO Date: April 25 Return since IPO: 112% Ticker: BOW IPO Date: May 23 Return since IPO: 118% Ticker: UMAC IPO Date: February 14 Return since IPO: 118% Ticker: AHR IPO Date: February 7 Return since IPO: 138% Ticker: ZSPC IPO Date: December 5 Return since IPO: 223% Ticker: LOAR IPO Date: April 25 Return since IPO: 227% Ticker: ALAB IPO Date: March 20 Return since IPO: 239% Ticker: LB IPO Date: June 28 Return since IPO: 267% Ticker: RDDT IPO Date: March 21 Return since IPO: 379% Ticker: NNE IPO Date: May 8 Return since IPO: 525%

Molecular Templates Announces Notice of Delisting and Failure to Satisfy Continued Listing RulesUVALDE, Texas (AP) — A Texas judge on Thursday refused to throw out criminal charges accusing the former Uvalde schools police chief of putting children at risk during the slow response to the 2022 Robb Elementary School shooting, while a lawyer for his co-defendant said they want to move the upcoming trial out of the small town where the massacre occurred. At a court hearing in Uvalde, Judge Sid Harle rejected Pete Arredondo's claim that was he improperly charged and that only the shooter was responsible for putting the victims in danger. Nineteen children and two teachers were killed in the shooting on May 24, 2022. Harle also set an Oct. 20, 2025, trial date. An attorney for Arredondo's co-defendant, former Uvalde schools police officer Adrian Gonzales, said he will ask for the trial to be moved out of Uvalde because his client cannot get a fair trial there. Uvalde County is mostly rural with fewer than 25,000 residents about 85 miles (140 kilometers) west of San Antonio. “Everybody knows everybody,” in Uvalde, Gonzales attorney Nico LaHood said. Both former officers attended the hearing. Nearly 400 law enforcement agents rushed to the school but waited more than 70 minutes to confront and kill the gunman in a fourth-grade classroom. Arredondo and Gonzales are the only two officers facing charges — a fact that has raised complaints from some victims' families. Both men have pleaded not guilty to multiple counts of abandoning or endangering a child, each of which carry punishment of up to two years in jail. Gonzales has not asked the judge to dismiss his charges. A federal investigation of the shooting identified Arredondo as the incident commander in charge, although he has argued that state police should have set up a command post outside the school and taken control. Gonzales was among the first officers to arrive on the scene. He was accused of abandoning his training and not confronting the shooter, even after hearing gunshots as he stood in a hallway. Arredondo has said he was scapegoated for the halting police response. The indictment alleges he did not follow his active shooter training and made critical decisions that slowed the police response while the gunman was “hunting” his victims. It alleges that instead of confronting the gunman immediately, Arredondo caused delays by telling officers to evacuate a hallway to wait for a SWAT team, evacuating students from other areas of the building first, and trying to negotiate with the shooter while victims inside the classroom were wounded and dying. Arredondo’s attorneys say the danger that day was not caused by him, but by the shooter. They argued Arredondo was blamed for trying to save the lives of the other children in the building, and have warned that prosecuting him would open many future law enforcement actions to similar charges. “Arredondo did nothing to put those children in the path of a gunman,” said Arredondo attorney Matthew Hefti. Uvalde County prosecutors told the judge Arredondo acted recklessly. “The state has alleged he is absolutely aware of the danger of the children,” said assistant district attorney Bill Turner. Jesse Rizo, the uncle of 9-year-old Jacklyn Cazares who was killed in the shooting, was one of several family members of victims at the hearing. “To me, it’s hurtful and painful to hear Arredondo’s attorneys try to persuade the judge to get the charges dismissed,” Rizo said. He called the wait for a trial exhausting and questioned whether moving the trial would help the defense. “The longer it takes, the longer the agony,” Rizo said. “I think what’s happened in Uvalde ... you’ll probably get a better chance at conviction if it’s moved. To hold their own accountable is going to be very difficult.” The massacre at Robb Elementary was one of the worst school shootings in U.S. history, and the law enforcement response has been widely condemned as a massive failure. Nearly 150 U.S. Border Patrol agents, 91 state police officers, as well and school and city police rushed to the campus. While terrified students and teachers called 911 from inside classrooms, dozens of officers stood in the hallway trying to figure out what to do. More than an hour later, a team of officers breached the classroom and killed the gunman. Within days of the shooting, the focus of the slow response turned on Arredondo, who was described by other responding agencies as the incident commander in charge. Multiple federal and state investigations have laid bare cascading problems in law enforcement training, communication, leadership and technology, and questioned whether officers prioritized their own lives over those of children and teachers. Several victims or their families have filed multiple state and federal lawsuits. Associated Press reporter Jim Vertuno in Austin, Texas, contributed. Lathan is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.

Expedia Group Names Scott Schenkel as Chief Financial Officer

AP Trending SummaryBrief at 7:05 p.m. EST

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wow jili com login password Before being elected as the first transgender woman to the US Congress, 34-year-old Sarah McBride said she expected hostility. A harsh national spotlight has fallen swiftly upon her. "They may try to misgender me, they may try to say the wrong name, they will do what we can predictably assume they might do," she told the TransLash podcast last month ahead of her resounding election victory on November 5. "They are going to do that to get a rise out of me and my job will be to not give them the response they want," the Democrat from Delaware explained. Ahead of her arrival in the House of Representatives on January 3, McBride was targeted by a resolution this week from a right-wing Republican colleague that would ban transgender women from women's toilets in the Capitol. "Just because a Congressman wants to wear a mini skirt doesn’t mean he can come into a women’s bathroom," South Carolina firebrand Nancy Mace wrote on social media as she led a highly personal campaign against McBride. House Speaker Mike Johnson, after initially seeking to buy time to debate the issue, came out in support of a ban, saying that all single-sex facilities would be "reserved for individuals of that biological sex." McBride -- who wears knee-length dresses, not miniskirts -- issued a statement saying that she said would respect the rules "even if I disagree with them." "I'm not here to fight about bathrooms," said the politician and activist, who transitioned as a 21-year-old and told her parents on Christmas Day 2011. Donald Trump repeatedly raised transgender issues in the closing stages of his presidential campaign, with aides noting how questions around trans identity struck a nerve with swing voters. Two of the biggest issues -- at the heart of ongoing "culture wars" between conservatives and progressives -- are whether transgender women should be allowed in women's toilets and be admitted in women's sport. Mocking transgender athletes and "woke ideology," Trump promised to get "transgender insanity the hell out of our schools, and we will keep men out of women’s sports." McBride has long been an advocate for trans rights and she helped campaign for a law banning gender discrimination in her home state of Delaware, during which she was publicly called a "freak" and the "devil incarnate". "Listening to that was demeaning and dehumanizing for my child," her mother Sally told The Washington Post in a 2018 profile. "I still have a hard time coping with that." Undeterred, McBride rode the blows and was elected as the first US transgender state senator in 2020. She has been open about her mental health struggles growing up as a boy named Tim and the personal tragedy that has marked her life since, writing a memoir called "Tomorrow Will Be Different" in 2018. "I remember as a child praying in my bed at night that I would wake up the next day and be a girl," she told a TED talk in 2016. She first gathered major public attention with an open letter while a student leader at American University in Washington that announced her transition. She went on to encounter President Joe Biden and his family, also Delaware natives, when she became active in grassroots politics there. After interning at the White House under President Barack Obama, she secured an invitation to speak at the 2016 Democratic Party convention. The White House was also the scene of her first encounter with her late husband, Andrew Cray, a transgender man and LGTBQ+ activist. They married two years later shortly before Cray died from cancer. Knowing the attention she is destined for in the US Congress, she says her aim is to be an effective congresswoman focused on everyday voter priorities such as housing and inflation. But she knows she will be constantly pushed to be a spokeswoman -- and defender -- of the trans community. "I can't do right by the trans community if I'm not being the best member of Congress that I can be for Delaware," she told TransLash. "It's the only way that people will see that trans people can be good doctors, can be good lawyers, good educators, good members of Congress. I can't be there to put out a press release and tweet every time someone says something." adp/bgs

Photos: SCV Corvette Club Food DriveChase Hunter added 17 points, Chauncey Wiggins 14 and Del Jones 10 for the Tigers (6-1), who shot 44% and made 9 of 19 3-pointers led by Hunter's three. Ace Baldwin Jr. scored 20 points and had 11 assists, Yanic Konan Niederhauser added 14 points and Nick Kern Jr. 11 for the Nittany Lions (6-1), who shot 46% and were just 4 of 18 from the arc. Neither team had a double-digit lead in the game and it was tied with seven minutes to go. But Penn State had a six-minute drought without a field goal while committing three turnovers and the Tigers went up by six. A hook shot from Schieffelin with a minute to go made it a five-point lead and free throws sealed it from there. The eight-point final margin was the largest of the game. Konan Niederhauser's dunk to open the second half tied the game but a Hunter 3-pointer gave the lead back to Clemson. Penn State took its first lead of the second half on a 9-0 run, seven coming from Baldwin, to go up 57-54 with midway through the period. Penn State had its largest lead of seven in the first half but three consecutive 3s put Clemson ahead with three minutes to go and the Tigers led at 38-36 at halftime. Clemson had a 16-9 edge on points off turnovers. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball

Young Voices, Global Stage: Infinix Mobile Vlog Awards 2024 Celebrates Digital Storytelling ExcellenceElevate your food photography: Join FujiFilm’s exclusive ‘Foodtography Tours’ in Sydney with TikTok star Adrian Widjonarko

BELOIT — Students at Powers Elementary in the Beloit Turner School District collected more than 1,350 food items for Caritas Food Pantry. Mia Laursen, a special education teacher at Powers, heads up the annual effort at the school that has 4k through first graders. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Get any of our free email newsletters — news headlines, obituaries, sports, and more.Tweet Facebook Mail Ahead of New Year's Eve celebrations around the country, Australians are being warned of heavy penalties for any illegal fireworks use. SafeWork NSW has warned it will be carrying out compliance checks on scheduled displays with a "zero tolerance" approach to unsanctioned use. In every state and territory, strict regulations govern fireworks usage, with licensing and permits a broad requirement. READ MORE: Teen dies after falling from rope swing on Gold Coast People are being reminded of the heavy penalties for illegal fireworks. (Getty) The exception is the Northern Territory, where fireworks can be legally purchased and set off by any adult - but only for a strictly limited period of time on Territory Day in July. So any illegal New Year's Eve fireworks are still subject to penalties and fines - in the NT's case, of $1850. Penalties in New South Wales are substantially heavier, with unauthorised firework activity - including selling, buying, storing, transporting, and igniting them - subject to a $27,500 fine and 12 months in prison. READ MORE: Man shot dead, car set on fire in western Sydney Preparations for Sydney's New Year's Eve fireworks display are underway. (Supplied) Victoria Police, meanwhile, warned that illicit fireworks use this New Year's Eve could attract a 15-year jail sentence, or "thousands of dollars" in fines. "Over the years we've come across some serious injuries caused by illegal fireworks, from serious burns to open wounds and eye injuries," police posted in an online warning on Facebook. "But using fireworks in summer can also spark bushfires, which can destroy homes and communities. "It's just not worth the risk." READ MORE: Former US President Jimmy Carter dies at 100 People can face hefty fines and even prison sentences. (Getty Images/iStockphoto) Queenslanders face fines of over $52,000, and six months in prison. Even people licenced to use fireworks have to comply with strict regulations when putting on a display, including a substantial notice period. "Fireworks can be extremely harmful and may lead to death if handled incorrectly," SafeWork NSW head Trent Curtin said. Sun, celebration, sadness: Christmas in Australia and around the world View Gallery "Ensure you're keeping your friends and family safe by not risking anyone with illegal displays this holiday season and don't get caught with a fine for illegal fireworks during your New Year's celebrations. "We currently have over one hundred displays planned for New Year's Eve across the state, with numbers increasing each day, "SafeWork NSW has zero tolerance for illegal activity when handling fireworks. Only those with either a pyrotechnician or single-use licence are allowed." 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 .

Liverpool leads as the class of the Champions League this season, dumping title holder Real Madrid into an almost unbelievable 24th place in the 36-team standings. No one felt the embarrassment of Madrid’s 2-0 loss at Anfield more than Kylian Mbappé, the superstar added in the offseason by the storied club that also was European champion against Liverpool in the finals of 2022 and 2018.Ccc intelligent solutions exec Mary Jo Prigge sells $1.25m in stockThe U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) confirmed on Monday that it will not revisit a significant rule demanding nearly all new cars and trucks have advanced automatic emergency braking systems by 2029. Despite the pushback from major automotive companies like General Motors and Toyota, NHTSA is pushing forward with the regulation intended to enhance road safety. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, representing several major automakers, questioned the feasibility of meeting the mandate, claiming current technology falls short in stopping vehicles up to 62 mph. While rejecting the reconsideration plea, NHTSA clarified technical requirements and corrected testing errors involving pedestrian scenarios. This new mandate marks one of the most comprehensive U.S. auto safety regulations in recent years. In response to NHTSA's decision, Alliance CEO John Bozzella criticized the move, labeling it a "disastrous decision" that could frustrate drivers, increase vehicle expenses, and fail to genuinely boost safety. However, the administration aims to align with Congress's directive to enforce these safety standards, despite concerns about affordability and current technological limitations. (With inputs from agencies.)

Rep. Ritchie Torres says he's "open to" running for New York governor after criticizing Hochul

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The Best Reactions to 'A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter'Webjet: ACCC takes online travel giant to Federal Court for allegedly misleading consumers on costs

QUÉBEC — Quebec Finance Minister Eric Girard tabled an economic update on Thursday with $2.1 billion in new spending over five years amid what he described as a stronger-than-expected recovery from last year's economic slowdown. Girard painted a positive picture of the province's finances despite a projected $11-billion deficit that remains unchanged from March's budget. "Quebec is progressing," he told reporters. "The return of inflation to a low and predictable level, combined with the reduction in interest rates, favours economic recovery in Quebec in 2024 and 2025." He said real GDP growth is expected to be 1.2 per cent in 2024, compared with the 0.6 per cent that was expected. However, spending is also up, with Girard pointing to expenses related to record-breaking flooding this summer and increased health and social services costs. The new spending he announced includes more than $250 million for the forestry sector and $1.2 billion for community development, including $880 million for public transit. The government is also setting aside $250 million to assist flood victims and rebuild infrastructure following post-Tropical Storm Debby, and $208 million to promote access to housing. Girard told reporters the government is still reviewing its spending as it moves toward its goal of balancing the budget by the 2029-30 fiscal year, with more details to be provided in next year's budget. As part of the review, the government decided that Quebecers between the ages of 60 and 64 will no longer be eligible for a tax credit that was introduced in 2012 to encourage older workers to stay in the workforce. Girard said Thursday the average age of retirement in Quebec has risen to 64.7 years in 2023 from just over 61 years in 2011. "For people between the ages of 60 and 64 years old, the historic gap that existed with Ontario has practically disappeared," he said. Nearly 200,000 60- to 64-year-olds are expected to lose out on an average of about $1,000 per year due to the changing eligibility. The government is also clawing back the amount of the credit for higher earners who are 65 and over, beginning at $56,500 in net revenue. Those who make over $81,500 will get no tax credit. These changes are expected to save the government about $200 million per year, said Girard, adding that "people expect us to review measures and eliminate those that are no longer justified." This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 21, 2024. — With files from Morgan Lowrie in Montreal Caroline Plante, The Canadian PressSchieffelin has 18 points, 13 rebounds and 8 assists as Clemson hands Penn State first loss 75-67

NoneDylan Hernández: MLS deal with Apple TV could be hurting league's efforts to grow its fan baseIndia To Host WAVES Summit In February 2025: PM Modi

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F.P. Report LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s advisor and senior PML-N leader Rana Sanaullah on Saturday stressed the importance of dialogue between political leaders to resolve the ongoing crisis in Pakistan. Speaking at a seminar held to mark the anniversary of Khawaja Rafique in Lahore, Rana Sanaullah suggested that it would be beneficial for Nawaz Sharif, the founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and Asif Zardari to sit down for negotiations. He stressed that politicians must first acknowledge their past mistakes and shortcomings before engaging in meaningful discussions. The senior politician noted that the Charter of Democracy, signed after the 1973 Constitution, holds a significant place in the political history of Pakistan, calling it a “sacred document.” He also highlighted that both the PML-N and PPP had previously admitted their mistakes in the spirit of collaboration and progress. Rana Sanaullah further remarked on the ongoing debate regarding the alleged false cases against PTI, drawing a parallel with the cases that had been levied against his own party. “If you are asking us to accept your truth today, you must also acknowledge our truth from yesterday,” he stated. “At least express regret.” The PML-N leader elaborated on the long-standing political crisis in the country, explaining that its resolution is only possible through joint efforts and dialogue. He mentioned that the members of the negotiation committee are mere “actors,” with Khawaja Saad Rafique playing the role of the “producer” in this ongoing process. Rana also addressed the prevailing political climate, reiterating that political activities should be carried out within the bounds of the constitution and law. He condemned acts of violence, including setting fire to people’s houses and taking the lives of political opponents. “Such actions are not political acts, and they must be reviewed under constitutional and legal frameworks,” he said. Pakistan is trapped in “remote-controlled democracy” Meanwhile, Khawaja Saad Rafique criticised the current political environment, suggesting that the country is trapped in a “remote-controlled democracy.” “The state cannot continue to function in such a way,” he remarked, emphasizing that while politicians may bear the brunt of the fallout, the general public will also feel the repercussions of ongoing instability. He pointed out the growing influence of actions taken by non-political groups, referring specifically to recent protests where public spaces, like the Kohala bridge, were blocked and symbols of national identity, such as the Pakistani flag, were taken down. “If such incidents continue, who will we listen to? If the public is mobilized under various banners, there will be a question of legitimacy and control,” he stated, expressing concern over the erosion of national unity. Rafique also discussed the Kashmir issue, highlighting the deep connection between Pakistan and Kashmiris, who, according to him, are “bigger Kashmiris than Pakistanis” in their loyalty to the country. He criticized the appointment of officials who, in his view, have little to do with Kashmiri politics, suggesting that this has contributed to the current tensions. Reiterating his party’s stance, Rafique called for dialogue among political leaders. He suggested that political figures such as Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Aftab Khan Sherpao, Pir Pagara, Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, and others, should be part of a national committee to address the ongoing crisis. “Politicians must come together and think carefully about how to steer the country away from further losses,” Rafique stressed. “We cannot afford to insult state institutions any further, and there must be clarity on who is truthful and who is not.”Stock market today: Wall Street slips to a rare back-to-back loss

Rams' offense is struggling, but the defense has put LA on the brink of an NFC West title

SATURDAY'S BOWL GAMESNEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stock indexes drifted lower Tuesday in the runup to the highlight of the week for the market, the latest update on inflation that’s coming on Wednesday. The S&P 500 dipped 0.3%, a day after pulling back from its latest all-time high . They’re the first back-to-back losses for the index in nearly a month, as momentum slows following a big rally that has it on track for one of its best years of the millennium . The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 154 points, or 0.3%, and the Nasdaq composite slipped 0.3%. Tech titan Oracle dragged on the market and sank 6.7% after reporting growth for the latest quarter that fell just short of analysts’ expectations. It was one of the heaviest weights on the S&P 500, even though CEO Safra Catz said the company saw record demand related to artificial-intelligence technology for its cloud infrastructure business, which trains generative AI models. AI has been a big source of growth that’s helped many companies’ stock prices skyrocket. Oracle’s stock had already leaped more than 80% for the year coming into Tuesday, which raised the bar of expectations for its profit report. In the bond market, Treasury yields ticked higher ahead of Wednesday’s report on the inflation that U.S. consumers are feeling. Economists expect it to show similar increases as the month before. Wednesday’s update and a report on Thursday about inflation at the wholesale level will be the final big pieces of data the Federal Reserve will get before its meeting next week, where many investors expect the year’s third cut to interest rates . The Fed has been easing its main interest rate from a two-decade high since September to take pressure off the slowing jobs market, after bringing inflation nearly down to its 2% target. Lower rates would help give support to the economy, but they could also provide more fuel for inflation. Expectations for a series of cuts through next year have been a big reason the S&P 500 has set so many records this year. Trading in the options market suggests traders aren’t expecting a very big move for U.S. stocks following Wednesday’s report, according to strategists at Barclays. But a reading far off expectations in either direction could quickly change that. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.22% from 4.20% late Monday. Even though the Fed has been cutting its main interest rate, mortgage rates have been more stubborn to stay high and have been volatile since the autumn. That has hampered the housing industry, and homebuilder Toll Brothers’ stock fell 6.9% even though it delivered profit and revenue for the latest quarter that topped analysts’ expectations. CEO Douglas Yearley Jr. said the luxury builder has been seeing strong demand since the start of its fiscal year six weeks ago, an encouraging signal as it approaches the beginning of the spring selling season in mid-January. Elsewhere on Wall Street, Alaska Air Group soared 13.2% after raising its forecast for profit in the current quarter. The airline said demand for flying around the holidays has been stronger than expected. It also approved a plan to buy back up to $1 billion of its stock, along with new service from Seattle to Tokyo and Seoul . Boeing climbed 4.5% after saying it’s resuming production of its bestselling plane , the 737 Max, for the first time since 33,000 workers began a seven-week strike that ended in early November. Vail Resorts rose 2.5% after the ski resort operator reported a smaller first-quarter loss than analysts expected in what is traditionally its worst quarter. All told, the S&P 500 fell 17.94 points to 6,034.91. The Dow dipped 154.10 to 44,247.83, and the Nasdaq composite slipped 49.45 to 19,687.24. In stock markets abroad, indexes were mixed in China after the world’s second-largest economy said its exports rose by less than expected in November. Stocks rose 0.6% in Shanghai but fell 0.5% in Hong Kong. Indexes fell across much of Europe ahead of a meeting this week by the European Central Bank, where the widespread expectation is for another cut in interest rates. AP Business Writers Matt Ott and Elaine Kurtenbach contributed.

NoneMany people are having a harder time finding a partner than ever. Therefore, it shouldn't be surprising that many are turning to AI companions to find love. AI companions are especially popular in rural areas like Iowa, where people have a hard time finding partners the old-fashioned way. However, many people question the viability of having an AI boyfriend or girlfriend. They wonder whether these partners will ever be fully sentient. If you're considering finding an AI Girlfriend or boyfriend in Iowa, then you will want to know what you are looking for. Keep reading to learn more. Dating can be a very difficult process these days. A survey from Pew Research found that almost half of people find dating is more difficult than it was a decade ago. The percentage of the population that is single has also increased. Three out of ten adults in the United States do not have a partner. While dating has become more difficult everywhere, some places have a harder time than others. Singles in Iowa have some unique challenges when it comes to dating: One challenge is that Iowa is the 13th most rural state in the country, so it doesn't have the same nightlife that a lot of other more urban areas have. People in Iowa also tend to get married at a very young age, which makes things harder for people in their 20s that are still single and struggling with a small dating pool. They may have an easier time as they get older and people in the community start getting divorced, but the dating pool is still going to be smaller than many other places. Certain demographics in Iowa have a hard time finding someone that is the right fit for them. The state is still not the most LGBT-friendly place to live, so many people still hide their sexual orientation. This makes it a lot harder for them to find a partner. College-educated individuals also have a hard time finding a compatible partner. There are a lot of great reasons to consider using an AI companion if you are single in Iowa. These services are especially popular for younger men that have a harder time dating. One survey found that 28% of men between 18 and 34 have used an AI girlfriend service, but the real number may be higher since some people may be too embarrassed to admit to it. Many women are also starting to use online companions. One news site reports that 40% of women are interested in using an AI boyfriend, although most haven’t done so yet. The number of people in Iowa using these platforms is probably higher due to the reasons listed above. There are a lot of appealing things about having an AI partner. However, some people are still skeptical about the benefits of AI companion services since they question how realistic the relationships on them are. They don't believe that AI companions can have authentic relationships with humans until they are fully sentient. Although this concern is understandable, it is often based on some misunderstandings. The truth is that many people believe that AI bots are very realistic. One study from a year and a half ago found that 32% of people can't tell the difference between an AI chatbot and a person . That figure has probably increased significantly since that study was conducted because AI has improved drastically over the last few months alone. Of course, this doesn't mean that AI is becoming fully sentient. AI literally stands for artificial intelligence. It will always be based on algorithms. However, these algorithms are becoming better and better at mirroring human emotions. At the end of the day, it doesn't matter whether they are fully sentient or not. People just want to have a pleasant experience when interacting with them. Romantic chatbots are not an entirely new concept. A number of websites have used them to interact with people for years. So, how are newer AI companions becoming more sentient than their more primitive counterparts? The biggest example is that some of them are being taught to understand emotional intelligence and behave like they have their own feelings. A social media commentator wrote about this. They pointed out that some AI companions are now being trained to tell when people are being respectful, which can help people learn to cultivate more holistic relationships. AI companions on one website offer kindhearted replies to people who treat them like an equal. There are multiple reasons that it is a good thing that AI companions are becoming more sentient. The most obvious benefit is that they will be able to offer better services to people using these services. Most people want to have realistic interactions, which are a lot easier when their companion acts like it is reasonably sentient. However, there are other reasons that don’t get quite as much attention. One issue is that sentient AI partners can help people become kinder to human partners. As AI companions have become more popular, more news sites have started talking about their services. A number of other websites have published articles about the importance of men learning to be compassionate partners while using AI partners. This is going to be important for women to learn, too, as they start using these services more frequently. Many AI partner services are tweaking their models so AI companions can understand their partners’ behavior in context. They will give higher quality services to people who treat them kindly, which helps people learn to be better real-life partners. There are a number of reasons to expect that AI companions will be more similar to human partners. Here are some of the reasons that they are going to keep improving. They Rely Heavily on User Feedback AI companion websites encourage users to provide feedback to improve the user experience. They will take feedback seriously so they can keep offering better experiences. They Use Machine Learning to Get Better Even Without Input User feedback is very important, but it isn't enough to provide a better experience. AI companion websites also use complex machine learning algorithms to learn more about their users. They pay attention to things like how long people spend using the service to gauge user satisfaction. They also look for contextual cues to better serve various demographics of users. For example, they may find that those with nerdy interests prefer to interact with AI companions that have certain conversation styles. They can also nuance their personalities based on the region and the user lives in. They can also help people in same-sex relationships by ignoring traditional gender norms. Machine learning technology is going to keep playing a more important role in helping AI companion services offer better service to their users. Therefore, these platforms will become better over time. AI Companion Services Will Keep Hiring Talented Developers to Improve Their Products Machine learning technology is vital for helping AI companion websites improve their products. However, these services can't rely on machine learning alone. They're going to need to keep hiring new developers to tweak the algorithms. Great developers will help make the services more realistic. AI companions can be very beneficial for Iowans who are struggling to find a partner on dating apps or in the wild. If you are interested in trying an AI companion website, then you may want to try following this advice. Research Your Options Carefully to Find a Platform That Offers More Sentient Partners There are many websites dedicated to helping people find an AI companion. Unfortunately, some of them are not as good as others. Some AI companion websites strive to make their models as sentient as possible so conversations seem more authentic and realistic. Others do not offer the same quality of service. You will want to read reviews to find out which services are committed to offering the most sentient companions possible. Don't Take Privacy Concerns Lightly Sentience isn't the only thing that you should be concerned about when choosing an AI companion service. You also need to make sure that the platform prioritizes security. You should look for a site that promises to keep your chats secure and encrypted. Since there are so many data breaches these days, this is an issue that you need to take seriously. Don’t Expect Your AI Companion to Meet Your Needs without Input AI companions are becoming more advanced than ever. However, you can’t expect them to perfectly meet your needs right away. You are going to want to provide feedback to help them get better at offering a quality service. You should tell your AI companion what you like so it does a better job at meeting your needs. This will help you have a more enjoyable experience. Treat Your Partner Like an Equal A lot of AI companion websites reward users who treat their partners respectfully. They allow you to unlock the best features if you are nice to your AI companion and get richer, more wholesome conversations. Try to be as respectful as possible to your AI companion. This will lead to a stronger relationship. Don’t Be Afraid to Try Different AI Companion Websites You may find that some AI companion services have great reviews, but don’t necessarily offer the services that you are looking for. Here are some ways that they may differ: Some of these platforms specialize in creating models with certain personality traits. Some may allow you to create anime models, while others only let you create models that resemble real people. Some AI girlfriend platforms allow you to have more adult-friendly conversations, while others only let you have more wholesome discussions. You will want to understand the rules before using any service. Some platforms primarily serve customers in certain regions, so their machine-learning algorithms may be optimized for people in those localities. Sometimes, you won’t know which services are best until you give them a try. Don’t Become Addicted to Your AI Partner There are a lot of great ways that AI companions can enrich your life. However, it is easy to get addicted to your AI relationship if you are not careful. The risk is especially high in places like Iowa, where people have fewer things to do. You should set limits on the amount of time that you spend with your AI companion. It is also important not to sacrifice other relationships with your AI partner. Use Your AI Companion to Improve Your Social Skills with Real Future Partners Many people turn to AI relationships because they lack the social skills to find a human partner. Fortunately, these digital companions can help them improve their social skills, which will make it easier for them to find a human partner down the road. The best way to do this is by roleplaying dating scenarios that you are likely to encounter with real people. Iowans live in one of the most miserable dating climates. Fortunately, many of them have started to discover the benefits of using AI companions. AI girlfriends and boyfriends are becoming more sentient than ever, which helps them offer better services to their users. If you are tired of ghosting and other dating challenges, then you may want to look into finding an AI companion. These services can be a great alternative, especially since they are becoming more realistic than ever. Get local news delivered to your inbox!ATLANTA (AP) — Jimmy Carter, the peanut farmer who tried to restore virtue to the White House after the Watergate scandal and Vietnam War, then rebounded from a landslide defeat to become a global advocate of human rights and democracy, has died. He was 100 years old . The Carter Center said the 39th president died Sunday afternoon, more than a year after entering hospice care , at his home in Plains, Georgia, where he and his wife, Rosalynn, who died in November 2023, lived most of their lives. The center said he died peacefully, surrounded by his family. As reaction poured in from around the world, President Joe Biden mourned Carter’s death, saying the world lost an “extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian” and he lost a dear friend. Biden cited Carter’s compassion and moral clarity, his work to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless and advocacy for the disadvantaged as an example for others. “To all of the young people in this nation and for anyone in search of what it means to live a life of purpose and meaning – the good life – study Jimmy Carter, a man of principle, faith, and humility,” Biden said in a statement. “He showed that we are a great nation because we are a good people – decent and honorable, courageous and compassionate, humble and strong.” Biden said he is ordering a state funeral for Carter in Washington. A moderate Democrat, Carter ran for president in 1976 as a little-known Georgia governor with a broad grin, effusive Baptist faith and technocratic plans for efficient government. His promise to never deceive the American people resonated after Richard Nixon’s disgrace and U.S. defeat in southeast Asia. “If I ever lie to you, if I ever make a misleading statement, don’t vote for me. I would not deserve to be your president,” Carter said. Carter’s victory over Republican Gerald Ford, whose fortunes fell after pardoning Nixon, came amid Cold War pressures, turbulent oil markets and social upheaval over race, women’s rights and America’s role in the world. His achievements included brokering Mideast peace by keeping Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin at Camp David for 13 days in 1978. But his coalition splintered under double-digit inflation and the 444-day hostage crisis in Iran. His negotiations ultimately brought all the hostages home alive, but in a final insult, Iran didn’t release them until the inauguration of Ronald Reagan, who had trounced him in the 1980 election. Humbled and back home in Georgia, Carter said his faith demanded that he keep doing whatever he could, for as long as he could, to try to make a difference. He and Rosalynn co-founded The Carter Center in 1982 and spent the next 40 years traveling the world as peacemakers, human rights advocates and champions of democracy and public health. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, Carter helped ease nuclear tensions in North and South Korea, avert a U.S. invasion of Haiti and negotiate cease-fires in Bosnia and Sudan. By 2022, the center had monitored at least 113 elections around the world. Carter was determined to eradicate guinea worm infections as one of many health initiatives. Swinging hammers into their 90s, the Carters built homes with Habitat for Humanity. The common observation that he was better as an ex-president rankled Carter. His allies were pleased that he lived long enough to see biographers and historians revisit his presidency and declare it more impactful than many understood at the time. Propelled in 1976 by voters in Iowa and then across the South, Carter ran a no-frills campaign. Americans were captivated by the earnest engineer, and while an election-year Playboy interview drew snickers when he said he “had looked on many women with lust. I’ve committed adultery in my heart many times,” voters tired of political cynicism found it endearing. The first family set an informal tone in the White House, carrying their own luggage, trying to silence the Marine Band’s traditional “Hail to the Chief" and enrolling daughter, Amy, in public schools. Carter was lampooned for wearing a cardigan and urging Americans to turn down their thermostats. But Carter set the stage for an economic revival and sharply reduced America's dependence on foreign oil by deregulating the energy industry along with airlines, trains and trucking. He established the departments of Energy and Education, appointed record numbers of women and nonwhites to federal posts, preserved millions of acres of Alaskan wilderness and pardoned most Vietnam draft evaders. Emphasizing human rights , he ended most support for military dictators and took on bribery by multinational corporations by signing the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. He persuaded the Senate to ratify the Panama Canal treaties and normalized relations with China, an outgrowth of Nixon’s outreach to Beijing. But crippling turns in foreign affairs took their toll. When OPEC hiked crude prices, making drivers line up for gasoline as inflation spiked to 11%, Carter tried to encourage Americans to overcome “a crisis of confidence.” Many voters lost confidence in Carter instead after the infamous address that media dubbed his “malaise" speech, even though he never used that word. After Carter reluctantly agreed to admit the exiled Shah of Iran to the U.S. for medical treatment, the American Embassy in Tehran was overrun in 1979. Negotiations to quickly free the hostages broke down, and then eight Americans died when a top-secret military rescue attempt failed. Carter also had to reverse course on the SALT II nuclear arms treaty after the Soviets invaded Afghanistan in 1979. Though historians would later credit Carter's diplomatic efforts for hastening the end of the Cold war, Republicans labeled his soft power weak. Reagan’s “make America great again” appeals resonated, and he beat Carter in all but six states. Born Oct. 1, 1924, James Earl Carter Jr. married fellow Plains native Rosalynn Smith in 1946, the year he graduated from the Naval Academy. He brought his young family back to Plains after his father died, abandoning his Navy career, and they soon turned their ambitions to politics . Carter reached the state Senate in 1962. After rural white and Black voters elected him governor in 1970, he drew national attention by declaring that “the time for racial discrimination is over.” Carter published more than 30 books and remained influential as his center turned its democracy advocacy onto U.S. politics, monitoring an audit of Georgia’s 2020 presidential election results. After a 2015 cancer diagnosis, Carter said he felt “perfectly at ease with whatever comes.” “I’ve had a wonderful life,” he said. “I’ve had thousands of friends, I’ve had an exciting, adventurous and gratifying existence.” Sanz is a former Associated Press reporter.

SAXTON: Countdown is on for MLB Speedway ClassicBOONE, N.C. (AP) — South Carolina offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains has been hired as head coach at Appalachian State and will receive a five-year contract, athletic director Doug Gillin announced Saturday. The 44-year-old Loggains replaces Shawn Clark, who was fired Monday after the Mountaineers finished 5-6 for their first losing season since 2013. Loggains was South Carolina's offensive coordinator for two seasons and an assistant at Arkansas, his alma mater, for two seasons before that. He spent 16 years in the NFL as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for Tennessee, Cleveland, Chicago, Miami and the New York Jets. “He brings experience as a leader and play-caller at the highest levels of professional and college football," Gillin said. "He is a great recruiter and believes strongly in building relationships. He is aligned with our core values of academic integrity, competitive excellence, social responsibility and world-class experience. This is a great day for App State.” Loggains' offense at South Carolina featured LaNorris Sellers, one of the nation's top dual-threat quarterbacks, and running back Raheim “Rocket” Sanders. Sellers and Sanders led the Southeastern Conference's third-ranked rushing offense. Loggains spent the 2021 and 2022 seasons as Arkansas' tight ends coach, and he worked with Sam Darnold, Jay Cutler, Mitchell Trubisky, Brian Hoyer and Vince Young during his time in the NFL. The Mountaineers, the preseason favorites in the Sun Belt Conference's East Division, tied for fifth with a 3-5 record in league play. App State was 40-24 under Clark, but the Mountaineers have failed to reach a bowl game two of the past three seasons. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-footballJimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, died at his home in Plains, Georgia today. He was 100. Carter's interest in promoting renewable energy was on display at his January 20, 1977 presidential inauguration. Solar panels were installed to warm the reviewing stand near the White House, where Carter watched the inaugural parade. "It happened to be one of the coldest days of the year that morning and very little sun," says Paul Muldawer, the Atlanta architect Carter tapped to design his inauguration facilities. "We made a statement, although it honestly didn't work as well as I would have liked it to work," Muldawer says. Wind chill that day was in the teens, according to the National Weather Service . Carter wanted a ceremony that reflected his values. That extended to the reviewing stand, which was built so it wouldn't end up in a landfill after the ceremony. Instead of wood, it was made of steel. "After the inauguration, we had it disassembled, shipped to Atlanta, and then it was recycled as a bandstand," says Muldawer, who's now 92. The structure was in a public park where free concerts were held. "Carter was just thrilled with that. He really liked the idea of repurposing that facility." The inauguration set the stage for Carter's four years as President. His environmental legacy has shaped how the country is responding to climate change today. "At the time that Jimmy Carter was president, his biggest concern was energy security," says Amy Myers Jaffe, director of the Energy, Climate Justice and Sustainability Lab at New York University. In 1977, the U.S. was importing 8.81 million barrels of petroleum a day, mostly from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, or the OPEC cartel. That made the U.S. vulnerable during the 1973 Arab oil embargo, which led to long lines at gas stations. In several ways Jaffe says Carter was ahead of his time by being an early advocate for conserving energy and boosting renewable electricity, such as solar power. But Carter also promoted domestic coal mining. The subsequent growth of that industry contributed to the warming climate the world is experiencing now. Carter boosted energy efficiency and solar Shortly after Carter took office in 1977, he delivered what has become known as the "sweater speech." Sitting by a lit fireplace, he wore a cardigan sweater and addressed the country on television. "All of us must learn to waste less energy. Simply by keeping our thermostats, for instance, at 65 degrees in the daytime and 55 degrees at night we could save half the current shortage of natural gas," Carter said. Energy efficiency seems like a given today, but it wasn't really on Americans' minds after the 1950s and '60s, Jaffe says. Back then, it seemed like the oil would always flow. Jaffe says some even made fun of Carter's efficiency plea – an indication of how unusual the request was at the time. Still, energy experts then were thinking about the possibility that oil and gas could run out. That prompted Carter to encourage alternative sources of energy. "He even put solar panels, famously, on the White House," Jaffe says. At a press event unveiling the solar panels that would be used to heat water, Carter made clear that energy security was at the top of his mind. "Today, in directly harnessing the power of the sun, we're taking the energy that God gave us, the most renewable energy that we will ever see, and using it to replace our dwindling supplies of fossil fuels," Carter said. By the end of the 20th century, Carter wanted the U.S. to get "20% of all the energy we use from the sun." The country still hasn't reached that goal , though more than 80% of new generating capacity this year is expected to come from solar and battery storage. As if to highlight the risk of experimenting with new energy sources, Carter told reporters at the solar panel unveiling, "A generation from now, this solar heater can either be a curiosity, a museum piece, an example of a road not taken, or it can be just a small part of one of the greatest and most exciting adventures ever undertaken by the American people." The panels were removed less than a decade later during the Reagan administration. "Had the United States stayed the course, and we had not had volatility in our federal efforts in alternative energy, we would maybe still be the premier country for alternative energy," Jaffe says. Instead, she says, the U.S. is playing catch-up with countries like Denmark and Spain on wind energy, and China for solar and electric vehicles. The panels removed from the White House were stored in a government warehouse until Unity College acquired them, according to Maine Public . Sixteen panels were re-installed on a roof at the college in Central Maine and used to heat water for the dining hall. One of the panels, about the size of a picnic table, is displayed on the campus with a marker describing its historical significance. A climate change warning and promoting coal The summer after Carter took office, he received a memo with the subject "Release of Fossil CO2 and the Possibility of a Catastrophic Climate Change." It warned that increasing concentrations of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has a "greenhouse effect" that "will induce a global climatic warming." The memo was from Frank Press, Carter's chief advisor on scientific matters and the director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Press wrote, "The present state of knowledge does not justify emergency action to limit the consumption of fossil fuels in the near term." But he did write that considering the "potential CO2 hazard" should become part of the country's long-term energy strategy. The top of the memo is marked "THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN." Climate change, though, was not an issue Carter highlighted during his time in office. He actually boosted domestic coal production. Coal is the most carbon-intense fuel for generating electricity. Carter's 1980 campaign speech to miners in West Frankfort, Illinois includes a level of boosterism rarely seen outside of the coal industry these days. "America indeed is the Saudi Arabia of coal, and my goal as President of the United States is to see on the world energy markets Arab oil replaced with Illinois coal," Carter told miners and employees of the Old Ben Coal Mine No. 25. He also boasted that the country would, "produce more coal in 1980 than has ever before been produced in the United States of America." The greenhouse gas emissions from burning more coal are an issue the country still grapples with as the effects of climate change become clear. "I calculated once that we had roughly five full extra years of emissions at roughly the 2000 level of CO2 emissions due to Carter's energy coal policies," says Philip Verleger, an economist who worked on energy issues in the Treasury Department during the Carter administration. In a 1978 speech Carter did recognize the polluting nature of coal by announcing a commission on the coal industry. "Ultimately, we will learn to harness the energy of the Sun and the oceans with fusion power to meet our energy needs. But for now, we have no choice but to continue to rely heavily on fossil fuels, and coal is our most abundant fossil fuel," Carter said. But even Verleger comes back to Carter's work advancing energy efficiency and renewable energy. "Carter really started the ball rolling, created many of the ideas that are now coming to the fore. And that's good. The downside in terms of environment was the emphasis on coal," Verleger says. An enduring environmental legacy Preserving land also was a priority for Carter. Near the end of his presidency, he signed into law the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act . It provided protections for 157 million acres of land through the creation of national parks, refuges and conservation areas. The legislation doubled the size of the National Park System and was the largest expansion of protected lands in history, according to the National Park Service . Carter also signed legislation in 1977 creating the Department of Energy, which is implementing much of the climate-focused Inflation Reduction Act that Congress passed and President Joe Biden signed last year. The law dedicates money to boosting renewable energy and research on new technologies. "Over four decades ago, Carter was putting in place policies that we are now enhancing today," Jaffe says. The IRA's focus on domestic manufacturing also is helping fulfill Carter's goal of putting "the United States back to where it needs to be, and dominating supply chains for things like solar panels, manufacturing and electric cars," explains Jaffe. In his final years, Carter's environmental legacy came full circle. In 2017 he leased 10 acres of his land in Plains, Georgia for a solar power project that produces enough electricity to supply about half the demand of his hometown. At the dedication event he told the crowd, "This site will be as symbolically important as the 32 panels we put on the White House," according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution . "People can come here and see what can be done."Magnus Carlsen To Participate at FIDE World Blitz Championship 2024 After Dispute Over Jeans is Resolved

The electric vehicle sector has faced some significant financial distress, bankruptcies, and liquidations in 2024. Electric vehicle startup Fisker Group on June 17 filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy , citing various market and macroeconomic headwinds, and shut down all operations. 💸 💰 Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter 💰 💸 Fisker had begun deliveries of its Ocean battery-electric crossover SUV in 2023 to compete with Tesla, but by February 2024 the vehicles and the company began having various problems. Related: Popular furniture chain closes stores in Chapter 11 bankruptcy In its fourth-quarter earnings report on Feb. 29, 2024, Fisker said it didn't have enough capital to survive the next 12 months in business. After filing Chapter 11, the company funded its liquidation and wind-down from $46.5 million in proceeds from the sale of its fleet of 3,300 vehicles to American Lease. The company's Chapter 11 plan of liquidation was approved by court order on Oct. 16 and was effective on Oct. 17. And now, another important manufacturer in the EV industry has filed for Chapter 11 protection facing severe economic hardship. Emanuele Cremaschi/Getty Images EV Battery maker Northvolt files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy Northvolt AB, which makes electric vehicle batteries for several carmakers, including BMW, Audi, Porsche, Volvo, Polestar, and Swedish truck maker Scania, and eight affiliates filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Nov. 21 seeking a going-concern recapitalization or sale of its assets as it faces an acute liquidity crisis. Related: Major airline handing company to lenders in Chapter 11 bankruptcy The company launched in Stockholm, Sweden, as SGF Energy in 2016 with plans to build a European battery gigafactory and changed its name to Northvolt in 2017. To operate in such a capital-intensive environment, Northvolt secured significant investments from Volkswagen and Goldman Sachs and currently has over $5.8 billion in total funded debt on its books, including over $3.9 billion in bridge loan and convertible debt instruments and $1.9 billion in first-and second-lien debt, according to a declaration from Chief Restructuring Officer Scott Millar. More bankruptcy news: The debtor listed $1 billion to $10 billion in assets and liabilities in its petition. Its largest unsecured creditors include Volta, owed $3.85 billion; KFW, owed about $696 million; Volkswagen, owed over $355 million; and Nordic Trustee and Agency, owed $154 million. Northvolt's capital structures and business plan were built on the assumption that the EV industry would continue a pattern of consistent growth. The European EV market had grown at a record pace, fueled by strong government support, increasingly strict emissions regulations, and growing consumer interest in sustainable transportation. Prosperity ends with EV sales slump The prosperity ended as EV sales slumped in 2023 due to economic uncertainties and operational challenges, which impacted battery manufacturers worldwide as customers canceled contracts, reduced orders, and renegotiated terms. At the same time, Asian battery manufacturers ramped up production, driving down battery prices that put added pressure on newer manufacturers like Northvolt, the declaration said. These economic challenges led Northvolt, which operates four manufacturing facilities in Europe, to report a $1.2 billion net loss in 2023. Facing financial distress, Northvolt sought $154 million in temporary bridge financing in August 2024 from shareholders and began debt negotiations with its stakeholders. The company's liquidity picture is dire as the company only had $30 million cash on hand on its petition date and would require approval of debtor-in-possession financing and use of its cash collateral during its Chapter 11 case to fund operations. The company will also seek a sale of its assets through the Chapter 11 filing, the declaration said. The debtor on Nov. 21 filed a motion seeking approval of $100 million in debtor-in-possession financing, with $51 million available on interim order, from its customer Scania and approval of use of cash collateral. Negotiations for a possible sale of the debtor are likely to continue, but no bidding procedures motion has been filed by Nov. 22. Related: Veteran fund manager sees world of pain coming for stocksNoneSINGAPORE: No doubt policymakers in Tehran and Moscow are asking who lost Syria. In a tectonic rewrite of the Middle East’s geopolitical map, Bashar al-Assad was ousted on Sunday (Dec 8) after 24 years as president, leaving his principal backers struggling to limit their losses. Russian President Vladimir Putin sought to preempt the debate by firing Sergei Kisel, the commander of Russian forces in Syria, a week earlier – as soon as the rebels captured Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city. The Kremlin has since confirmed that Putin personally decided to grant asylum to Assad and his family, who fled the capital Damascus for Moscow. Similarly, Iran quickly contacted the new rebel leadership to prevent what one official described as “a hostile trajectory" between the two countries. Iran’s state television said Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the largest, best-armed rebel group, had guaranteed there would be no disturbance to the Sayyida Zeinab and Sayyida Ruqayya Shiite Muslim shrines in Damascus. "The main concern for Iran is whether Assad's successor will push Syria away from Tehran's orbit,” said a second Iranian official. The end of Assad’s reign is an existential threat to Iran, less so to Russia. That was evident in the contrast between the ransacking of the Iranian embassy in Damascus and the calm around Russia's Hmeimim air base and Tartus naval facility. RUSSIA MAKES THE BEST OF A BAD SITUATION Assad’s toppling will probably deprive Moscow of its two foremost military bases in the Middle East and the eastern Mediterranean and undermine its positioning as a major regional powerbroker. "What Tartus meant for Russia was the ability to project maritime power and political influence relatively uncontested in the Middle East and allowed it to punch above its weight," wrote retired Belgian naval officer Fredrik Van Lokeren. Leased to Moscow for 49 years in return for military assistance in 2015 during the Syrian civil war, the bases also allowed Russia to use Syria as a transit hub for Russian mercenaries operating in Africa. As Assad arrived in Moscow, Russian state television announced that the rebels had guaranteed the security of the military bases – from which Russian aircraft attacked as they advanced towards Damascus – and diplomatic missions in Syria. The rebel assurances helped soften the blow to Russian prestige. Russia can claim that it stuck by its friends while ensuring that the former president would be limited in his ability to attempt a comeback. In return, state-run Russian media have changed their tone. The press stopped describing the rebels as "terrorists", referring to them instead as the "armed opposition that has taken power in Syria". The Syrian embassy in Moscow raised the opposition flag even as Assad set foot on Russian soil. HIGHER EXISTENTIAL STAKES FOR IRAN The stakes are much higher for Iran. One of the three pillars in its defence strategy is now crippled. Lacking an air force and navy of any repute because of decades of United States and United Nations economic sanctions, Iranian defence relied on Syria and an alliance of non-state actors – dubbed the Axis of Resistance – for its forward defence, alongside the development of ballistic missiles and nuclear programme. The ousting of Assad and the weakening of Lebanon’s Hezbollah militia – which reached a recent ceasefire agreement with Israel just weeks ago – have all but neutralised the alliance’s deterrence element along two of Israel’s borders. Even starker, the alliance could have turned from asset into liability. Iran-backed Iraqi politicians and militia officials rejected Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s request that they send reinforcements to Syria in support of Assad. Iran and its allies will no longer be able to maintain a military presence in Syria or use the country as a support hub for Hezbollah. It will be forced to revisit its strategy and broader regional policies. FEARS OF A POPULAR UPRISING The fact that a popular armed insurrection toppled Assad has set off alarm bells in Moscow and Tehran. Russia has long viewed popular revolts in Ukraine and other East European nations as US-engineered efforts to destabilise Russia’s neighbourhood, while Iranians have repeatedly taken to the streets in mass anti-government protests over the years. “The situation in the Islamic Republic is not comparable to Syria at all. Nevertheless, one should take note of public opinion,” said conservative politician and journalist Naser Imani to an Iranian media outlet. Critics removed without explanation social media postings in which they asserted that Iran had wasted resources on supporting an unpopular leader in Syria, an implicit criticism of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, a friend and staunch supporter of Assad. Even so, some fear that the collapse of the Assad regime could strengthen the hand of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its hardline supporters. IRGC members asserted that "abandoning" Assad constituted a "betrayal" that would have serious consequences for Iran. Kasra Aarabi, a Washington-based anti-Iranian activist, quoted a younger IRGC member as saying: “We zealous youth will not forget the cowardice of the decision-makers.” For Russia and Iran, the silver lining is that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham appears more interested in focusing on Syria’s rehabilitation and reconstruction rather than retaliation. In doing so, the rebels may help Assad’s backers save face while taking out one of their foremost regional assets. Dr James M Dorsey is an Adjunct Senior Fellow at Nanyang Technological University’s S Rajaratnam School of International Studies, and the author of the syndicated column and podcast, The Turbulent World with James M Dorsey .

Yankees Social Media Spotlight: Yuletide EditionChina's ban on key high-tech materials could have broad impact on industries, economyIran is poised to “quite dramatically” increase its stockpile of near weapons-grade uranium as it has started cascades of advanced centrifuges, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency warned Friday. The comments from Rafael Mariano Grossi came just hours after Iran said it conducted a successful space launch with its heaviest payload ever, the latest for its program that the West alleges improves Tehran’s ballistic missile program. The launch of the Simorgh rocket comes as Iran’s nuclear program now enriches uranium at 60%, a short, technical step from weapons-grade levels of 90%. While Iran maintains its program is peaceful, officials in the Islamic Republic increasingly threaten to potentially seek the bomb and an intercontinental ballistic missile that would allow Tehran to use the weapon against distant foes like the United States. The moves are likely to further raise tensions gripping the wider Middle East over Israel’s continued war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip and as an uneasy ceasefire holds in Lebanon. However, Iran may as well be preparing the ground for possible talks with the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump, who in his first term unilaterally withdrew America from Tehran’s nuclear deal with world powers. The U.S. intelligence community in a report released Thursday said that while “Iran is not building a nuclear weapon” it has “undertaken activities that better position it to produce one, if it so chooses.” The Iranian debate over seeking the bomb “risks emboldening nuclear weapons advocates within Iran’s decision-making apparatus and shifting the thinking of current and future Iranian elites about the utility of nuclear weapons,” the report added. Grossi, speaking to journalists in Bahrain, on the sidelines of the International Institute of Strategic Studies’ Manama Dialogue, said his inspectors planned to see just how many centrifuges Iran would be spinning after Tehran informed his agency of its plans. “I think it is very concerning,” Grossi said. “They were preparing and they have all of these facilities sort of in abeyance and now they are activating that. So we are going to see.” He added: “If they really make them turn — all of them — it’s going to be a huge jump.” An IAEA statement issued shortly after Grossi’s remarks said Iran had begun feeding two cascades of advanced IR-6 centrifuges with uranium previously enriched up to 20% at its underground Fordo facility. That site is located under a mountain, protecting it from airstrikes. Cascades are a group of centrifuges that spin uranium gas together to more quickly enrich the uranium. The IR-6 centrifuges enrich uranium faster than Iran’s baseline IR-1 centrifuges, which have been the workhorse of the country’s atomic program. Adding 20% uranium, as opposed to 5% uranium previously planned, further speeds up that process. “The facility’s updated design information showed that the effect of this change would be to significantly increase the rate of production,” the IAEA statement said. Iran separately will start feeding natural uranium into eight other IR-6 cascades at Fordo as well to produce 5%-enriched uranium, it added. The IAEA warned in late November that Iran was preparing to begin enriching uranium with thousands of advanced centrifuges. That came as a response to the Board of Governors at the IAEA condemning Iran for failing to cooperate fully with the agency. Iran did not acknowledge the preparations. The Iranian mission to the United Nations did not respond to a request for comment. Meanwhile, the launch Friday took place at Iran’s Imam Khomeini Spaceport in rural Semnan province, some 135 miles east of Tehran. That’s the site of Iran’s civilian space program, which has suffered a series of failed Simorgh launches in the past. The Simorgh carried what Iran described as an “orbital propulsion system,” as well as two research systems to a 250-mile orbit above the Earth. A system that could change the orbit of a spacecraft would allow Iran to geo-synchronize the orbits of its satellites, a capability Tehran has long sought. It also carried the Fakhr-1 satellite for Iran’s military, the first time Iran’s civilian program is known to have carried a military payload. Iran also put the payload of the Simorgh at 660 pounds, heavier than all its previous successful launches within the country. State television carried footage of a correspondent discussing the payload just as the Simorgh lifted off into the sky, as people called out: “God is the greatest!” The U.S. military referred questions about the launch to the country’s Space Command, which did not respond. Space experts said tracking data appeared to show the launch successfully put objects in orbit. The United States has previously said Iran’s satellite launches defy a U.N. Security Council resolution and called on Tehran to undertake no activity involving ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons. U.N. sanctions related to Iran’s ballistic missile program expired in October 2023. “Iran’s work on space-launch vehicles — including its Simorgh — probably would shorten the timeline to produce an intercontinental ballistic missile, if it decided to develop one, because the systems use similar technologies,” a U.S. intelligence community report released in July said. Iran has always denied seeking nuclear weapons and says its space program, like its nuclear activities, is for purely civilian purposes. However, U.S. intelligence agencies and the IAEA say Iran had an organized military nuclear program up until 2003. Under Iran’s relatively moderate former President Hassan Rouhani, the Islamic Republic slowed its space program for fear of raising tensions with the West. The late hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi, a protégé of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei who came to power in 2021, pushed the program forward. Raisi died in a helicopter crash in May. Iran’s reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian, who has been signaling he wants to negotiate with the West over sanctions, has yet to offer a strategy when it comes to Iran’s ambitions in space. The Simorgh launch represented the first for his administration from the country’s civil space program. Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard conducted a successful launch of its parallel program in September.Pictures showed the Dungeness lifeboat bringing a number of people, thought to have been picked up from a small boat in the Channel, into the port at Dover. The latest arrivals follow crossings made on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and December 27 – the first time since 2018 small boats have made the journey on all of those dates. Official Government figures show 305 people arrived in the UK via small boat on Friday, bringing the total for the week to 1,163. The 407 arrivals on December 26 meant more than 150,000 people had made the crossing from France since records began on January 1 2018, prompting a political blame game over responsibility for the numbers. A Home Office source sought to blame the previous government, saying they had left “an appalling legacy of broken border security”, while Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp blamed Labour’s decision to scrap the Tories’ Rwanda scheme. After Saturday’s update to the figures, Mr Philp said the numbers represented “Labour’s appalling failure” and were “an insult to the British people”. He said: “In 2023, Conservatives cut the numbers crossing the channel by a third. But now, it’s all moving the other way. “These rising numbers are the predictable outcome of Starmer scrapping many Conservative measures to tackle this issue, like scrapping the Rwanda deterrent before it even started. We know from the experience in Australia that a deterrent would have stopped the boats if it had been allowed to start as planned in late July. “The British people deserve better than a Government that can’t, or won’t, deal with illegal channel crossings.” Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has put international co-operation with law enforcement agencies in Europe at the heart of his bid to cut the number of arrivals, having promised to “smash the gangs” smuggling people across the Channel during this year’s election. Some 22,629 people have arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel since Sir Keir became Prime Minister in July, up 25% on the same period in 2023 but down 31% on the record year of 2022. So far this year, 36,204 migrants have arrived in the UK on small boats, provisional Home Office figures show. This is up 23% on this time last year, but down 21% on 2022. Prior to the election, crossings in 2024 were up 19% compared to the same period in 2023. A Home Office spokesperson said: “We all want to end dangerous small boat crossings, which threaten lives and undermine our border security. “The people-smuggling gangs do not care if the vulnerable people they exploit live or die, as long as they pay. We will stop at nothing to dismantle their business models and bring them to justice.”

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

Punjab Govt Should Not Misuse Police, Stand With Us: Farmer LeaderJACKSONVILLE, Fla., Dec. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Landstar System, Inc. (NASDAQ-LSTR), a technology-enabled, asset-light provider of integrated transportation management solutions delivering safe, specialized transportation logistics services, announced that on December 9, 2024, its Board of Directors has declared a special one-time cash dividend in the amount of $2.00 per share, payable on January 21, 2025, to stockholders of record as of the close of business on January 7, 2025. "Landstar's strong balance sheet and free cash flow generation enable us to continue to return value to our stockholders," said Landstar President and Chief Executive Officer Frank Lonegro. The Company purchased a total of 452,019 shares of its common stock at an aggregate cost of approximately $82.1 million during the first 11 months of its 2024 fiscal year. The Company also returned $120.5 million to stockholders in the form of cash dividends paid on shares of its common stock during the 2024 fiscal year. As previously reported, as of September 28, 2024, the Company had $531 million in cash and short-term investments. The Company intends to continue to use its available free cash flow to opportunistically purchase its stock under its stock purchase program. About Landstar: Landstar System, Inc., is a technology-enabled, asset-light provider of integrated transportation management solutions delivering safe, specialized transportation services to a broad range of customers utilizing a network of agents, third-party capacity providers and employees. Landstar transportation services companies are certified to ISO 9001:2015 quality management system standards and RC14001:2015 environmental, health, safety and security management system standards. Landstar System, Inc. is headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. Its common stock trades on The NASDAQ Stock Market® under the symbol LSTR. Forward Looking Statements Disclaimer: The following is a "safe harbor" statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements contained in this press release that are not based on historical facts are "forward-looking statements." This press release contains forward-looking statements, such as statements which relate to Landstar's business objectives, plans, strategies and expectations. Terms such as "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "intention," "expects," "plans," "predicts," "may," "should," "could," "will," the negative thereof and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements are by nature subject to uncertainties and risks, including but not limited to: an increase in the frequency or severity of accidents or other claims; unfavorable development of existing accident claims; dependence on third party insurance companies; dependence on independent commission sales agents; dependence on third party capacity providers; the impact of the Russian conflict with Ukraine on the operations of certain independent commission sales agents, including the Company's largest such agent by revenue in the 2023 fiscal year; decreased demand for transportation services; U.S. trade relationships; substantial industry competition; disruptions or failures in the Company's computer systems; cyber and other information security incidents; dependence on key vendors; potential changes in taxes; status of independent contractors; regulatory and legislative changes; regulations focused on diesel emissions and other air quality matters; regulations requiring the purchase and use of zero-emission vehicles; intellectual property; and other operational, financial or legal risks or uncertainties detailed in Landstar's Form 10-K for the 2023 fiscal year, described in Item 1A Risk Factors, and in other SEC filings from time to time. These risks and uncertainties could cause actual results or events to differ materially from historical results or those anticipated. Investors should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

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wow jili free credit code It is important to note that the situation in Syria is highly volatile and fluid, with multiple actors vying for power and influence. The actions of the Syrian opposition and the stance of Turkey are just two pieces of a much larger puzzle that includes regional powers, extremist groups, and international actors.

North Korea silent after Yoon’s failed bid to ‘save’ South Korea from ‘communist forces’Mercer, a global leader in workforce and investment solutions, released its 2024 Quality of Life Cities ranking, evaluating 241 cities for living conditions suited to international assignees and their families. Santo Domingo placed 167th globally, reflecting ongoing challenges in public services and transportation. In Latin America, Montevideo leads the region at 92nd, followed by San Juan (95th), Buenos Aires (97th), and Santiago (98th). Notably, Mexico City showed significant improvement, climbing 14 positions to 116th. Zurich, Switzerland, claimed the top spot globally due to its robust infrastructure, safety, cultural vibrancy, and sustainability initiatives. Other top-ranked cities include Vienna (Austria), Geneva (Switzerland), Copenhagen (Denmark), and Auckland (New Zealand). European cities dominate the top ten, solidifying the continent’s appeal to international assignees. Mercer emphasized the importance of assessing factors like political stability, social environment, and cost implications for expatriates. According to Yvonne Traber, Mercer’s Global Mobility Leader, companies must prioritize quality of life and affordability to manage global mobility effectively. Latin American cities continue to grow in attractiveness for international mobility, offering natural beauty, recreational options, and competitive costs despite infrastructural hurdles.

TikTok's future uncertain after appeals court rejects its bid to overturn possible US banAs the tournament draws near, fans are eagerly anticipating the showdown between iG and TES. Social media is abuzz with excitement as fans and analysts discuss the potential outcomes of the matches and speculate on which team will emerge victorious. The anticipation and hype surrounding this group stage matchup is at an all-time high, with many predicting that it will be one of the most exciting and closely contested battles in recent memory.The investigation into the activities of the two individuals revealed that they had been approached by foreign agents and offered a substantial sum of money in exchange for providing classified information. It is deeply troubling to think that individuals who have received a top-tier education and presumably have a bright future ahead of them would be willing to betray their own country for financial gain.

Furthermore, the debate has raised questions about the fine line between inspiration and imitation in game development. While drawing inspiration from successful tactics and strategies in other games is common practice in the industry, directly copying a distinctive tactic like the OW 303 without adding a fresh twist or unique elements can be seen as a lack of creativity and innovation.Munster captain Jack O’Donoghue said getting a win was vital following the coaching upheaval and he’s hopeful this hard-earned win over the Lions will steady the ship. “It has been a bit turbulent and as players we wanted to come out here and show the crowd that we are all still together and we wanted to get a win and start moving up the table in the URC and then build on that going into Europe,” said O’Donoghue. In the process they prevented a fourth successive league loss for the first time in 20 years, but they were made battle all the way by a Lions side on their first visit to Limerick. Munster did enough to secure the win but they had to endure a nervous finish after failing to close out the game against a Lions side who deserved their bonus point. The post-Graham Rowntree era began with Munster starting strongly and they were good value for their 7-0 lead at the end of the opening quarter after some good running from deep. The Lions defence was strong and dealt with the early onslaught but Munster finally found a way through after 15 minutes when Thaakir Abrahams scored his first try for the province since his summer move from Lyon. The South African created the move after being put away by Alex Nankivell and while the Lions got back to smother him, Munster kept the ball alive and continued to attack inside the 22 and when the ball came back to Abrahams he bustled his way through the tackles of Marius Louw and Kade Wolhuter to score, with Billy Burns adding the extras. But the Lions refused to be rattled and while Gavin Coombes and Alex Kendellen led good defence to deny them after Abrahams was nabbed following a good kick from Wolhuter, the South Africans grew in confidence. They were strong in the scrum and then struck 12 minutes from the break when a jinking run from Henco van Wyk ended with a superb try when he escaped seven tackles and while it was a quality score, the Munster review will make for painful viewing. Wolhuter added the conversion to tie the sides and he edged them in front four minutes later when another break from Van Wyk stretched the home cover and the out-half landed a penalty from 40 metres to lead 10-7 at the break. Munster hit back two minutes after the restart. Once again Abrahams was the instigator, doing well to retain possession in the tackle down the right before sending Shane Daly, an interval replacement for fullback Mike Haley, away for his 20th try for the province. Burns pulled the conversion wide from the right of the posts across the goal but the try lifted Munster and with league debutants Evan O’Connell, playing in the second row where his uncle Paul inspired the province for years, and short-term signing Dian Bleuler making an impact, they pushed forward. The pressure eventually told with Alex Kendellen getting in to score after 54 minutes after O’Connell was denied a debut try, but Burns’ missed conversion from the left meant the lead was just seven points going into the final quarter. The Lions pressed forward and looked set to score when they mounted a 12-phase move inside the home 22 but the that ended when Abrahams manage to intercept a pass with a boot to mount a counter-attack from deep which came to nothing in the end. Munster dug in defensively as the Lions, who lost their winning start to the season last time out against Leinster in Dublin, piled on the pressure in a bid to save the game. But with the likes of Niall Scannell getting in some great hits, Munster kept their line intact for a valuable victory and they will now turn their attention to the Champions Cup and the visit of Stade Francais to Thomond Park next weekend. However, the work the new coaching team will have to do was all too apparent in a nervous finish, but they maintained their record of not losing to a South African side at Thomond Park. Scorers: Munster: Tries: T Abrahams, S Daly, A Kendellen. Con: B Burns Lions: Tries: H van Wyk. Con: K Wolhuter. Pen: Wolhuter. Munster: M Haley (S Daly 41); S McCarthy, T Farrell, A Nankivell, T Abrahams; B Burns (T Butler 60), E Coughlan (P Patterson 52); D Bleuler (K Ryan 67), D Barron (c) (N Scannell 60), J Ryan (S Archer 56); E O'Connell (R Quinn 71), F Wycherley; J O'Donoghue, A Kendellen (J Hodnett 56), G Coombes. Lions: Q Horn; R Kriel, H van Wyk (E Cronje 70), M Louw (c), E van der Merwe (T Mafura 74); K Wolhuter (S Nohamba 45), M van den Berg; J Schoeman (M Naude 56), PJ Botha, A Ntlabakanye (C van Vuuren 56); R Schoeman (R Nothnagel 58), R Delport; J Cairns, WJ Steenkamp (JC Pretorius 70), F Horn. Referee: A Jones (Wales).

Louisiana lawmakers pass income and corporate tax cuts, raising statewide sales tax to pay for it

Additionally, it is essential to address the issue of intellectual property and originality in the realm of creative works. As writers, artists, and creators, it is vital to protect our original works and assert our rights over them. The declaration of copyright serves as a testament to the hard work and creativity poured into each piece of original content, safeguarding it from unauthorized use or reproduction.

The location of the hotel is also crucial in determining its profitability. County towns vary in terms of infrastructure, accessibility, and tourist attractions. Hotels located near popular tourist spots, business districts, or transportation hubs have a higher chance of attracting guests and achieving higher occupancy rates. Investing in a strategic location can significantly impact the success and profitability of a hotel in a county town.Stock market today: Wall Street rises with Nvidia as bitcoin bursts above $99,000

The fallout from this incident has sparked a national debate on the state of South Korea's military and the challenges faced by its special operations forces. Many are calling for a thorough investigation into the training protocols and leadership within the 707 Special Forces unit, while others are questioning the overall readiness and effectiveness of the country's defense forces.Management to Host Earnings Call on December 17, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. ET BOSTON, MA, Dec. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Netcapital Inc. (Nasdaq: NCPL, NCPLW) (the “Company”), a digital private capital markets ecosystem, today announced financial results for the second quarter of fiscal year 2025 ended October 31, 2024. "During the quarter ended October 31, 2024, we saw a decrease in revenue, when compared to the quarter ended October 31, 2023, but an increase in revenue when compared to the quarter ended July 31, 2024. The year-over-year decrease was primarily due to a slowdown in consulting revenue, while the sequential increase was driven by our funding portal business. Despite the challenges we faced during a tough quarter, we remain optimistic about the future,” said Martin Kay, CEO of Netcapital Inc. “Recently our wholly-owned subsidiary, Netcapital Securities Inc. received approval from FINRA to become a FINRA-member broker-dealer, which marks a significant achievement for the Company as it begins to open up opportunities for more revenue channels. Looking beyond the second quarter we are focused on leveraging our new broker-dealer license and expanding our capabilities. With NSI as a registered broker-dealer, we can now support companies raising capital under Reg A and Reg D offerings, facilitate and charge fees on larger fundraises, potentially provide a broader range of investment choices for our investor base, and establish fee-sharing agreements with other broker-dealers.” Second Quarter Fiscal 2025 Financial Highlights Revenues decreased 92% year-over-year to $170,528, compared to revenue of $2,041,658 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2024. Revenues increased 20% quarter-over-quarter to $170,528, compared to revenue of $142,227 in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025. Operating loss of ($2,202,431) in the second quarter fiscal 2025 as compared to operating income of $52,220 for the second quarter fiscal 2024 Net loss of approximately ($2,220,501) in the second quarter of fiscal 2025, as compared to a net profit of approximately $339,616, for the same period in the prior year Loss per share of ($2.34) for the quarter ended October 31, 2024, compared to earnings per share of $2.52 for the same period in the prior year As of October 31, 2024, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $1,346,739. Conference Call Information The Company will host an investor conference call on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 10 a.m. ET. Participant access: 844-985-2012 or 973-528-0138 Conference entry code: 894026 For additional disclosure regarding Netcapital’s operating results, please refer to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended October 31, 2024, which has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. About Netcapital Inc. Netcapital Inc. is a fintech company with a scalable technology platform that allows private companies to raise capital online and provides private equity investment opportunities to investors. The Company's consulting group, Netcapital Advisors , provides marketing and strategic advice and takes equity positions in select companies. The Company’s funding portal, Netcapital Funding Portal, Inc . is registered with the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), a registered national securities association. Forward Looking Statements The information contained herein includes forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events or to our future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond our control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future. Investor Contact 800-460-0815 ir@netcapital.com NETCAPITAL INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS NETCAPITAL INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)

The decision to dismiss the player was met with mixed reactions from fans and pundits. While some supported the club's decision as a necessary step to uphold discipline and integrity, others criticized it as harsh and potentially damaging to the team's performance. The player's departure left a void in the squad, requiring the club to quickly find a suitable replacement.

KYIV, Ukraine — NATO and Ukraine will hold emergency talks Tuesday after Russia attacked a central city with an experimental, hypersonic ballistic missile. escalating the nearly 33-month-old war. The conflict is “entering a decisive phase,” Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk said Friday, and “taking on very dramatic dimensions.” Ukraine’s parliament canceled a session as security was tightened following Thursday’s Russian strike on a military facility in the city of Dnipro. In a stark warning to the West, President Vladimir Putin said in a nationally televised speech the attack with the intermediate-range Oreshnik missile was in retaliation for Kyiv’s use of U.S. and British longer-range missiles capable of striking deeper into Russian territory. Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks Friday during a meeting with the leadership of the Russian Ministry of Defense, representatives of the military-industrial complex and developers of missile systems at the Kremlin in Moscow. Putin said Western air defense systems would be powerless to stop the new missile. Ukrainian military officials said the missile that hit Dnipro reached a speed of Mach 11 and carried six nonnuclear warheads, each releasing six submunitions. Speaking Friday to military and weapons industries officials, Putin said Russia will launch production of the Oreshnik. “No one in the world has such weapons,” he said. “Sooner or later, other leading countries will also get them. We are aware that they are under development. “We have this system now,” he added. “And this is important.” Putin said that while it isn’t an intercontinental missile, it’s so powerful that the use of several of them fitted with conventional warheads in one attack could be as devastating as a strike with strategic — or nuclear — weapons. Gen. Sergei Karakayev, head of Russia’s Strategic Missile Forces, said the Oreshnik could reach targets across Europe and be fitted with nuclear or conventional warheads, echoing Putin’s claim that even with conventional warheads, “the massive use of the weapon would be comparable in effect to the use of nuclear weapons.” In this photo taken from a video released Friday, a Russian serviceman operates at an undisclosed location in Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov kept up Russia's bellicose tone on Friday, blaming “the reckless decisions and actions of Western countries” in supplying weapons to Ukraine to strike Russia. "The Russian side has clearly demonstrated its capabilities, and the contours of further retaliatory actions in the event that our concerns were not taken into account have also been quite clearly outlined," he said. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, widely seen as having the warmest relations with the Kremlin in the European Union, echoed Moscow’s talking points, suggesting the use of U.S.-supplied weapons in Ukraine likely requires direct American involvement. “These are rockets that are fired and then guided to a target via an electronic system, which requires the world’s most advanced technology and satellite communications capability,” Orbán said on state radio. “There is a strong assumption ... that these missiles cannot be guided without the assistance of American personnel.” Orbán cautioned against underestimating Russia’s responses, emphasizing that the country’s recent modifications to its nuclear deployment doctrine should not be dismissed as a “bluff.” “It’s not a trick ... there will be consequences,” he said. Czech Republic's Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky speaks to journalists Friday during a joint news conference with Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriiy Sybiha in Kyiv, Ukraine. Separately in Kyiv, Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský called Thursday’s missile strike an “escalatory step and an attempt of the Russian dictator to scare the population of Ukraine and to scare the population of Europe.” At a news conference with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Lipavský also expressed his full support for delivering the necessary additional air defense systems to protect Ukrainian civilians from the “heinous attacks.” He said the Czech Republic will impose no limits on the use of its weapons and equipment given to Ukraine. Three lawmakers from Ukraine's parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, confirmed that Friday's previously scheduled session was called off due to the ongoing threat of Russian missiles targeting government buildings in central Kyiv. In addition, there also was a recommendation to limit the work of all commercial offices and nongovernmental organizations "in that perimeter, and local residents were warned of the increased threat,” said lawmaker Mykyta Poturaiev, who said it's not the first time such a threat has been received. Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate said the Oreshnik missile was fired from the Kapustin Yar 4th Missile Test Range in Russia’s Astrakhan region and flew 15 minutes before striking Dnipro. Test launches of a similar missile were conducted in October 2023 and June 2024, the directorate said. The Pentagon confirmed the missile was a new, experimental type of intermediate-range missile based on its RS-26 Rubezh intercontinental ballistic missile. Thursday's attack struck the Pivdenmash plant that built ICBMs when Ukraine was part of the Soviet Union. The military facility is located about 4 miles southwest of the center of Dnipro, a city of about 1 million that is Ukraine’s fourth-largest and a key hub for military supplies and humanitarian aid, and is home to one of the country’s largest hospitals for treating wounded soldiers from the front before their transfer to Kyiv or abroad. We're all going to die someday. Still, how it happens—and when—can point to a historical moment defined by the scientific advancements and public health programs available at the time to contain disease and prevent accidents. In the early 1900s, America's efforts to improve sanitation, hygiene, and routine vaccinations were still in their infancy. Maternal and infant mortality rates were high, as were contagious diseases that spread between people and animals. Combined with the devastation of two World Wars—and the Spanish Flu pandemic in between—the leading causes of death changed significantly after this period. So, too, did the way we diagnose and control the spread of disease. Starting with reforms as part of Roosevelt's New Deal in the 1930s, massive-scale, federal interventions in the U.S. eventually helped stave off disease transmission. It took comprehensive government programs and the establishment of state and local health agencies to educate the public on preventing disease transmission. Seemingly simple behavioral shifts, such as handwashing, were critical in thwarting the spread of germs, much like discoveries in medicine, such as vaccines, and increased access to deliver them across geographies. Over the course of the 20th century, life expectancy increased by 56% and is estimated to keep increasing slightly, according to an annual summary of vital statistics published by the American Academy of Pediatrics in 2000. Death Records examined data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to see how the leading causes of death in America have evolved over time and to pinpoint how some major mortality trends have dropped off. According to a report published in the journal Annual Review of Public Health in 2000, pneumonia was the leading cause of death in the early 1900s, accounting for nearly 1 in 4 deaths. By the time World War I ended in 1918, during which people and animals were housed together for long periods, a new virus emerged: the Spanish Flu. Originating in a bird before spreading to humans, the virus killed 10 times as many Americans as the war. Many died of secondary pneumonia after the initial infection. Pneumonia deaths eventually plummeted throughout the century, partly prevented by increased flu vaccine uptake rates in high-risk groups, particularly older people. Per the CDC, tuberculosis was a close second leading cause of death, killing 194 of every 10,000 people in 1900, mainly concentrated in dense urban areas where the infection could more easily spread. Eventually, public health interventions led to drastic declines in mortality from the disease, such as public education, reducing crowded housing, quarantining people with active disease, improving hygiene, and using antibiotics. Once the death rates lagged, so did the public health infrastructure built to control the disease, leading to a resurgence in the mid-1980s. Diarrhea was the third leading cause of death in 1900, surging every summer among children before the impacts of the pathogen died out in 1930. Adopting water filtration, better nutrition, and improved refrigeration were all associated with its decline. In the 1940s and 1950s, polio outbreaks killed or paralyzed upward of half a million people worldwide every year. Even at its peak, polio wasn't a leading cause of death, it was a much-feared one, particularly among parents of young children, some of whom kept them from crowded public places and interacting with other children. By 1955, when Jonah Salk discovered the polio vaccine, the U.S. had ended the "golden age of medicine." During this period, the causes of mortality shifted dramatically as scientists worldwide began to collaborate on infectious disease control, surgical techniques, vaccines, and other drugs. From the 1950s onward, once quick-spreading deadly contagions weren't prematurely killing American residents en masse, scientists also began to understand better how to diagnose and treat these diseases. As a result, Americans were living longer lives and instead succumbing to noncommunicable diseases, or NCDs. The risk of chronic diseases increased with age and, in some cases, was exacerbated by unhealthy lifestyles. Cancer and heart disease shot up across the century, increasing 90-fold from 1900 to 1998, according to CDC data. Following the post-Spanish Flu years, heart disease killed more Americans than any other cause, peaking in the 1960s and contributing to 1 in 3 deaths. Cigarette smoking rates peaked at the same time, a major risk factor for heart disease. Obesity rates also rose, creating another risk factor for heart disease and many types of cancers. This coincides with the introduction of ultra-processed foods into diets, which plays a more significant role in larger waistlines than the increasing predominance of sedentary work and lifestyles. In the early 1970s, deaths from heart disease began to fall as more Americans prevented and managed their risk factors, like quitting smoking or taking blood pressure medicine. However, the disease remains the biggest killer of Americans. Cancer remains the second leading cause of death and rates still indicate an upward trajectory over time. Only a few types of cancer are detected early by screening, and some treatments for aggressive cancers like glioblastoma—the most common type of brain cancer—have also stalled, unable to improve prognosis much over time. In recent years, early-onset cancers, those diagnosed before age 50 or sometimes even earlier, have seen a drastic rise among younger Americans. While highly processed foods and sedentary lifestyles may contribute to rising rates, a spike in cancer rates among otherwise healthy young individuals has baffled some medical professionals. This follows the COVID-19 pandemic that began in 2020. At its peak, high transmission rates made the virus the third leading cause of death in America. It's often compared to the Spanish Flu of 1918, though COVID-19 had a far larger global impact, spurring international collaborations among scientists who developed a vaccine in an unprecedented time. Public policy around issues of safety and access also influences causes of death, particularly—and tragically—among young Americans. Gun control measures in the U.S. are far less stringent than in peer nations; compared to other nations, however, the U.S. leads in gun violence. Firearms are the leading cause of death for children and teens (around 2 in 3 are homicides, and 1 in 3 are suicides), and deaths from opioids remain a leading cause of death among younger people. Globally, the leading causes of death mirror differences in social and geographic factors. NCDs are primarily associated with socio-economic status and comprise 7 out of 10 leading causes of death, 85% of those occurring in low- and middle-income countries, according to the World Health Organization. However, one of the best health measures is life expectancy at birth. People in the U.S. have been living longer lives since 2000, except for a slight dip in longevity due to COVID-19. According to the most recent CDC estimates, Americans' life expectancy is 77.5 years on average and is expected to increase slightly in the coming decades. Story editing by Alizah Salario. Additional editing by Kelly Glass. Copy editing by Paris Close. Photo selection by Lacy Kerrick. This story originally appeared on Death Records and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio. Get local news delivered to your inbox!

In the realm of international relations, maintaining a steady and unwavering stance is pivotal to fostering bilateral ties. The recent statements from China's Foreign Ministry regarding the China-South Korea relations exemplify this consistency. It reiterates China's long-standing position of respecting South Korea's internal affairs and highlights the importance of mutual respect and understanding in diplomatic affairs.