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maxbet888 CHICAGO (WLS) -- The bitterly cold temperatures across Chicago are not stopping people from enjoying the city. The Fighting Illini beat the Wildcats 38-28 Saturday at Wrigley Field while many fans and holiday-season revelers dealt with the weather. "It's very fun out here, but cold," Kevin Klocker said. Thousand of people packed Wrigley Field for some Big Ten football as plenty of other stuff was going on across the city. People were braving the cold. "It was really cold. I can't feel my feet, but Illinois is winning, so it's worth it," a fan named Maggie said. SEE ALSO | Chicago Nativity Scene on display in Daley Plaza ahead of Christmas With wind chills in the single-digits, people are trying to find any way to stay warm. "Hand warmers literally everywhere," Kelset Magad said. "Two jackets... I have like three pants on. We're doing amazing." Despite the cold, the city was still jam packed with action from Wrigleyville to the lakefront. People said their plans Saturday night may have to move indoors, though. READ MORE | What to know about Small Business Saturday discounts, promotions in Lincoln Square, Ravenswood "I think we're gonna go to Christmas bars and see where the night takes us," Maggie said. Warning centers are also prepared across the city, available to all residents in need of shelter. RELATED | Chicago weather: City opens warming centers as bitterly cold temperatures move in The first wave of freezing temperatures is always hardest for Chicagoans, but some say they're ready for it. "I think I'm just gonna power through it and do the best I can," a woman named Kelsey said.US sex-abuse watchdog fires investigator after learning of his arrest for stealing drug money DENVER (AP) — The U.S. Center for SafeSport abruptly fired one of its investigators last month after learning he’d been arrested for stealing money confiscated after a drug bust he was part of during his previous job as a police officer. Jason Krasley left his job with the Allentown Police Department in Pennsylvania in 2021 and was hired by the Denver-based SafeSport center to look into sensitive cases involving sex abuse and harassment. The center said it conducts multiple interviews and a “comprehensive background check” of potential employees. The center said it was looking into cases Krasley handled to make sure they were dealt with appropriately. Jim Larrañaga steps down at Miami, Bill Courtney takes over to finish season CORAL GABLES, Fla. (AP) — Jim Larrañaga has stepped down as Miami’s men’s basketball coach effective immediately. Larrañaga will be replaced by associate head coach Bill Courtney — one of Larrañaga’s best friends for the past three decades or so — for the remainder of the season. The now-former coach says he loves the university but believes it's the right time to step away. Larrañaga says "I’ve tried every which way to keep this going.” Larrañaga joins a long line of prominent college basketball coaches who have left their jobs in recent years citing the changes in the game and the challenge of coaching in the name, image and likeness era. Cowboys shutting down CeeDee Lamb with 2 games to go over receiver's shoulder issue FRISCO, Texas (AP) — The Dallas Cowboys are shutting down CeeDee Lamb with two games remaining after their 2023 All-Pro receiver spent the second half of the season dealing with a sprained right shoulder. The team says additional exams revealed enough damage to keep Lamb off the field Sunday at Philadelphia and in the final game at home against Washington. The team says surgery isn't expected to be required. Dallas was eliminated from playoff contention a few hours before last weekend’s 26-24 victory over Tampa Bay. At least 65 million tune in for Netflix NFL Christmas Day games. NBA holiday ratings also skyrocket LeBron James is going to have to make room for the NFL. Wednesday’s doubleheader on Netflix set records as the most-streamed NFL games in U.S. history, with numbers nearly five times more than the NBA. The Baltimore Ravens’ 31-2 victory over the Houston Texans averaged 24.3 million while Kansas City’s 29-10 win at Pittsburgh averaged 24.1 according to early viewer figures released by Nielsen on Thursday. Nielsen also said there were 65 million U.S. viewers who tuned in for at least one minute of one of the two games. The NBA’s five-game slate averaged about 5.25 million viewers per game across ABC, ESPN and its platforms, according to the league and Nielsen. Pat Riley says the Miami Heat will not trade Jimmy Butler ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — If Jimmy Butler wants a trade, the Miami Heat have no plans to make him happy. Heat President Pat Riley — in a rare move — spoke out to address rumors Thursday, saying the team has no plans to trade Butler. It’s a clear sign that, if necessary, the team will be willing to let Butler leave as a free agent and get nothing in return. Riley says in a release distributed by the team "we usually don’t comment on rumors, but all this speculation has become a distraction to the team and is not fair to the players and coaches.” Penn State offensive coordinator Kotelnicki's creativity has the Nittany Lions humming in the CFP Penn State's offense is thriving under first-year offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki. The Nittany Lions are one of a handful of Power Four schools averaging 200 yards per game rushing and receiving heading into their College Football Playoff quarterfinal against Boise State. Penn State has one of the most unique offensive weapons in the country in tight end Tyler Warren. Warren has 92 receptions this season and has become a threat out of the backfield, rushing for 197 yards and two touchdowns. Organizers say two sailors have died in Sydney to Hobart yacht race amid wild weather conditions SYDNEY (AP) — Organizers said that two Sydney to Hobart sailors have died at sea amid wild weather conditions that forced line honors favorite Master Lock Comanche to withdraw among mass retirements. The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, which administers the yacht race, has said that one sailor each on entrants Flying Fish Arctos and Bowline were killed after being struck by the boom, a large horizontal pole at the bottom of the sail. The race will continue as the fleet continues its passage to Constitution Dock in Hobart, with the first boats expected to arrive later on Friday or early Saturday morning. Haaland penalty failure and Fernandes red card pile on woes for City and United in Premier League Erling Haaland’s failure from the penalty spot and Bruno Fernandes’ latest red card have compounded the woes of Manchester City and Manchester United on another tough day for the two Premier League giants. City dropped more points in its improbably poor run of form by drawing 1-1 at home to Everton. Haaland had a spot kick saved by England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. The defending champions have only won one of its last 13 games in all competitions. City is languishing in seventh place while United is 14th after a 2-0 loss at Wolverhampton. Fernandes was sent off in the 47th. First-place Liverpool beat Leicester 3-1 in foggy conditions at Anfield and leads by seven points. Simona Halep withdraws from Australian Open qualifying because of knee and shoulder pain MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Two-time Grand Slam champion Simona Halep has pulled out of Australian Open qualifying and a tuneup tournament in Auckland, New Zealand, because of pain in her knee and shoulder. Thursday's news represents the latest interruption of her comeback from a drug suspension. Halep posted on social media that she was feeling poorly after participating in an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi. The 33-year-old Romanian said she is planning to next enter the Transylvania Open in her home country, where play begins Feb. 3. Halep was granted a wild-card entry for qualifying in the Australian Open last week. Mahomes throws 3 TDs as Chiefs clinch AFC's top seed by breezing past the skidding Steelers 29-10 PITTSBURGH (AP) — Patrick Mahomes passed for 320 yards and three touchdowns and the Kansas City Chiefs locked up the top seed in the AFC for the fourth time in seven seasons with a 29-10 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The two-time defending Super Bowl champions raced to an early 13-point lead and were never really threatened by the Steelers (10-6). Pittsburgh has dropped three straight to see its chances of capturing the AFC North take another hit. Travis Kelce caught eight passes for 84 yards and a touchdown. Kelce also became the third tight end in NFL history to reach 1,000 receptions, joining Tony Gonzalez and Jason Witten.

SOUTH EASTON, Mass. (AP) — Louie Semona's 22 points helped Stonehill defeat New Hampshire 90-83 on Sunday. Semona also added six rebounds for the Skyhawks (7-7). Chas Stinson scored 16 points while going 6 of 10 and 4 of 5 from the free-throw line and added five assists and three steals. Josh Morgan shot 4 of 8 from the field, including 0 for 3 from 3-point range, and went 4 for 4 from the line to finish with 12 points. Sami Pissis finished with 20 points for the Wildcats (2-12). Khalil Badru added 15 points for New Hampshire. Giancarlo Bastianoni also put up 14 points and 12 rebounds. The loss was the Wildcats' sixth in a row. Stonehill's next game is Sunday against Lafayette on the road, and New Hampshire visits Iowa on Monday. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

HC to deliver verdict any dayThe Government’s social housing agency has backed out of a billion-dollar infrastructure alliance that would have built about 6000 new homes in Auckland – less than 18 months after signing a five-year extension. Labour says the decision to rip up the contract and sell off existing state houses could lead to a rise in homelessness, with little indication the coalition will do anything to fill the void. The Land Enablement and Delivery (LEAD) Alliance, formerly known as Piritahi, was formed in 2018 as a partnership between Kāinga Ora and five civil engineering companies – Dempsey Wood, Harrison Grierson, Hick Bros Group, Tonkin + Taylor, and Woods – to deliver infrastructure required for the agency’s large-scale urban development projects on Crown land in Auckland. The alliance was initially set up to deliver a $750 million works programme over five years. However, in August last year, Kāinga Ora signed a contract extending the alliance agreement by a further five years (until December 2028), in a move it said would enable around 6000 new homes and up to $1 billion of work to be delivered for its large scale projects in Auckland. Mark Fraser, Kāinga Ora’s general manager for urban development and delivery, at the time described the contract extension as an important milestone for its work in the city, adding: “We are proud to have the LEAD Alliance as our partner in this transformative change.” But Kāinga Ora has been in the new coalition’s sights following a change of government at last year’s election. Less than a month after taking office, Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced an independent review into the agency, saying ministers had received “further worrying advice” about its financial situation. That review, conducted by former prime minister Sir Bill English and released in May this year, of Kāinga Ora’s performance, saying it was not financially viable at present and there had been limited attention to value for money. The agency’s chief executive and five board members , and Bishop has indicated it will receive no new money to grow its social housing stock as the Government instead turns towards community housing providers. May’s Budget included $435 million in savings from the return of funds earmarked for Kāinga Ora’s large-scale projects. Explaining the cuts, the Government said it would assess the work “to ensure that remaining funding [is] directed towards the highest value-for-money spend, with an emphasis on enabling additional housing supply”. While neither Kāinga Ora nor the Government has issued any press release Fraser confirmed the agency was “ending our contractual arrangement with” the alliance, telling Newsroom: “The alliance delivery model has worked well over the past six years. However, as we continue to look for cost efficiencies across our programmes of work and plan our future urban development work, we have decided the alliance delivery model no longer suits our requirements.” Fraser said the agency was exploring alternative contracting options for the delivery of its infrastructure programmes across large-scale projects. Labour Party housing spokesman Kieran McAnulty told Newsroom the decision to cut short the alliance, coupled with the funding cuts for large-scale projects, was undercutting Kāinga Ora’s important work on social housing. “It all adds up to a trajectory we’ve been signalling for a while – this government doesn’t want to build more houses.” The construction sector had already shed more than 11,000 jobs in the last year, and further losses would come as a result of the alliance contract being torn up, McAnulty said. While the Government had made clear it would favour community housing providers over state housing, it had given them only a fraction of the funding needed to fill the gap that Kāinga Ora would leave. Newsroom attempted to contact all five companies involved in the alliance, but was unable to reach them with offices having closed for the Christmas break. A spokeswoman for Bishop referred Newsroom to Kāinga Ora when asked for comment, labelling the decisions “operational”. Exactly what the decision means for the alliance’s work on large developments in Roskill, Mangere, Northcote and Oranga is unclear. Separately, Kāinga Ora confirmed plans to sell off roughly 300 existing state houses in Auckland. Gareth Stiven, the agency’s general manager for strategy, finance and policy, told Newsroom it was “looking to sell some older, not-fit-for-purpose homes” throughout the city. “This does not mean we are reducing the number of homes we own overall – for each existing Kāinga Ora home sold, a newly built home is delivered elsewhere,” Stiven said. People living in houses that were being considered for sale would be contacted directly by the agency and offered an alternative Kāinga Ora home that met their needs. Speaking to Parliament’s social services and community committee in early December, Kāinga Ora chief executive Matt Crockett said the sales would help the agency fund its renewal and retrofit work, but would not commit to replacing every Auckland house it sold with another in the city. “We’ve got ... multimillion-dollar properties in Remuera and places like that that can be more appropriately sold and those funds redeployed to build three, four, five houses somewhere else,” Crockett said.

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Dec 22 (Reuters) - President-elect Donald Trump indicated on Sunday that he favored allowing TikTok to keep operating in the United States for at least a little while, saying he had received billions of views on the social media platform during his presidential campaign. Trump's comments before a crowd of conservative supporters in Phoenix, Arizona, were one of the strongest signals yet that he opposes a potential exit of TikTok from the U.S. market. The U.S. Senate passed a law in April requiring TikTok's Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to divest the app, citing national security concerns. TikTok's owners have sought to have the law struck down, and the U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case. But if the court does not rule in ByteDance's favor and no divestment occurs, the app could be effectively banned in the United States on Jan. 19, one day before Trump takes office. It is unclear how Trump would go about undoing the TikTok divestiture order, which passed overwhelmingly in the Senate. "I think we're going to have to start thinking because, you know, we did go on TikTok, and we had a great response with billions of views, billions and billions of views," Trump told the crowd at AmericaFest, an annual gathering organized by conservative group Turning Point. "They brought me a chart, and it was a record, and it was so beautiful to see, and as I looked at it, I said, 'Maybe we gotta keep this sucker around for a little while'," he said. Trump met with TikTok's CEO on Monday. Trump said at a news conference the same day that he had a "warm spot" for TikTok thanks to his campaign's success on the app. The Justice Department has argued that Chinese control of TikTok poses a continuing threat to national security, a position supported by most U.S. lawmakers. TikTok says the Justice Department has misstated the social media app's ties to China, arguing that its content recommendation engine and user data are stored in the United States on cloud servers operated by Oracle Corp (ORCL.N) , opens new tab , while content moderation decisions that affect U.S. users are made in the United States. Sign up here. Reporting by Gram Slattery; Editing by Ross Colvin and Mark Porter Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab Thomson Reuters Washington-based correspondent covering campaigns and Congress. Previously posted in Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo and Santiago, Chile, and has reported extensively throughout Latin America. Co-winner of the 2021 Reuters Journalist of the Year Award in the business coverage category for a series on corruption and fraud in the oil industry. He was born in Massachusetts and graduated from Harvard College.

Arkansas DE Landon Jackson carted off field and taken to hospital with neck injuryThe “human printer” who has quickly risen the ranks in Donald Trump’s campaign has been writing him adoring letters, according to a new report by The New York Times . Though aide Natalie Harp has no official title, she controls all the information the president-elect receives, according to The Times . She travels with a portable printer to give Trump a hard copy of favorable coverage, as he prefers, which earned her the nickname. Now, Harp, 33, is under renewed scrutiny for a series of letters she wrote to Trump in 2023, which were shown to The Times and confirmed by two other sources. ADVERTISEMENT “You are all that matters to me,” Harp wrote in one letter. “I don’t ever want to let you down,” she continued, thanking Trump for being her “Guardian and Protector in this Life.” In another letter, Harp told Trump she wanted to bring back “that synergy” they used to have, where “we’d talk about everything and nothing.” “I want to bring you joy to feel like we can get through a day without ever having to talk ‘work,’” she wrote. Harp first caught Trump’s attention during an appearance on Fox News in 2019. She credited the Right to Try law, which Trump signed in 2018, with saving her life by allowing her to use experimental treatments for her bone cancer. She was seen in the Tucker Carlson-produced documentary about Trump’s campaign writing up his Truth Social posts. For his part, Trump calls Harp “sweetie” and treats her like a daughter, according to The Times. He has reportedly told his staff that he felt like Harp was the only aide who truly cared about him after his arraignment in Georgia in 2023. After the report published on Monday, Trump took to Truth Social to criticize the journalist, Maggie Haberman, and call the story “phony junk.”The Hotline mailbag publishes weekly. Send questions to wilnerhotline@bayareanewsgroup.com and include ‘mailbag’ in the subject line. Or hit me on the social media platform X: @WilnerHotline Some questions have been edited for clarity and brevity. With a 12-team College Football Playoff, does ranking 25 teams each week make sense? Instead, why not rank 14 teams and, at least through 2025-26, include the top five conference leaders and the Group of Five representative if they aren't in the top 14? — Jon Joseph A: In our view, playoff expansion is the most impactful competitive change in the history of the sport. It has made more teams, and more games, relevant than ever before. The move from four teams to 12 was essential and overdue, and college football is exponentially more compelling because of it. But flaws remain, and they probably won't get corrected in the next 12 months. The current CFP system runs through next season. There is no format for the playoff beginning in the fall of 2026, when a new contract cycle with ESPN begins. But the SEC and Big Ten are watching the 2024 version carefully and could force major changes in 2026 if they don't like what they see. We aren't sure it matters whether the committee ranks 14, 20 or 25 teams each week. The issue isn't the number of teams; it's the rankings themselves. They are an ESPN creation to fill airtime, generate viewers and spark debate (in a sport that already has plenty of debate). The committee doesn't benefit from the weekly rankings. Instead, the exercise undermines confidence by exposing inconsistencies in the logic and setting up the committee chair to look dazed and evasive. But ESPN is paying for the playoff, ESPN wants the rankings show each Tuesday and, in college sports, ESPN gets what ESPN wants. (Same for Fox.) That said, the situation is far worse this season than ever before because the committee seemingly has no clue how to handle the expansion elements — expansion of the playoff and expansion of the conferences. Realignment has created bigger leagues with unbalanced schedules and, especially in the case of the SEC and Big Ten, more good teams. Depending on the schedule rotation, some playoff contenders will naturally have more losses than others within the same conference -- and certainly more than other contenders in different conferences. The SEC is loaded with good teams and, in our view, is somewhat akin to the NFL, where even the best teams have an inexplicable loss every so often. But the committee is using the same approach to evaluating and ranking the teams, with a heavy emphasis placed on the number of losses. Oklahoma defensive lineman Gracen Halton (56) tackles Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe (4) during the second half of a NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, in Norman, Okla. Warde Manuel, the committee chair, admitted earlier this week that strength of schedule isn't highly valued even though it's the first listed criteria in the selection process and should be the most important component given the bigger conferences and unbalanced schedules. "Teams can only play the schedule that's in front of them," Manuel explained on a media teleconference Tuesday evening. "They can only play the opponents that they have ... "From our perspective, if it was just about strength of schedule, we wouldn't be needed." And therein lies the irony apparently lost on Manuel and Co.: By minimizing strength of schedule, the committee is expediting its own demise. Which conference stands to benefit the most in the selection process from an emphasis of schedule strength? The SEC. Which conference stands to suffer the greatest harm if the committee devalues schedule strength? The SEC. Which conference has the most influence over the postseason and could, if desired, force a complete overhaul of the CFP selection process, with computers replacing people for the 2026 version and beyond? And that's not all. The SEC (and Big Ten) could simply eliminate the at-large pool and establish a process by which each conference receives a predetermined number of automatic bids. We'll close the circle with this: So much of the frustration that could spur the SEC to insist on format changes will have taken root not on selection day (Dec. 8) but during these weekly ranking shows that expose the flaws in the committee's process. Every utterance by Manuel about minimizing schedule strength pushes his committee closer to extinction. Gut feeling: Is Alabama in the College Football Playoff with a 9-3 record? — @WorkishFromHome A: The likelihood is greater than 50%, in our view. The 13th-ranked Crimson Tide was on the CFP bubble this week and positioned to climb into the field if a few teams above them lose, which seems more likely than not. The Hotline noted on the social media platform X several weeks ago that this whole exercise pointed toward the SEC placing a three-loss team into the field. That outcome remains in play despite the intra-conference carnage last weekend. Should Alabama make the field with three total losses, two losses to unranked teams and one ghastly performance (at Oklahoma)? That's an entirely different question. However, the opinion above still stands: The SEC's weekly grind increasingly resembles that of the NFL's regular season, meaning bad losses will become more commonplace. (To a lesser extent, the same is true in the Big Ten.) But again, the committee has shown no ability to adjust its process to account for the wide disparity in schedules. If anything, it doesn't seem to care about the opposition and is treating every win the same — a very head coach-driven approach to the evaluation process. You wrote on X last weekend that, "Indiana has no business making the playoff as an at-large team. None." Please explain: Indiana has one loss to a top-five team; Alabama has two losses to unranked teams. — @nickbeatty72 A: The explanation is fairly straightforward: I am a strong proponent of quality wins — in both the CFP selection process and my own AP Top 25 ballot — and Indiana has none. The Hoosiers have played one team currently ranked by the committee, Ohio State, and they lost by multiple touchdowns. I don't care that they beat Nebraska by 49 points and Washington by 14. The Hoosiers whiffed in their only test of the season. (Maybe they shouldn't have canceled a game against Louisville and replaced it with Western Illinois.) And to be clear: The Hotline would take the same view with any team possessing Indiana's résumé. Give us a 9-3 playoff participant with a handful of quality wins over an 11-1 team with zero quality wins. We'd make that trade every time. If Cal and UCLA can schedule a nonconference series now that the Bears are in the ACC and the Bruins are in the Big Ten, why can't Stanford and USC? — @lindamar112 A: Those are completely different situations in this regard: Cal and UCLA share the same governing board. Our understanding, based on conversations with sources, is that scheduling matchups in football and other sports was part of the agreement when the University of California Board of Regents allowed the Bruins to join the Big Ten. Stanford and USC have no such connective tissue despite a football series that dates to the early 1900s. My sense is that both schools would be open to renewing the series if it made sense but are skeptical about the practicality, especially for USC. The Trojans are committed to 10 dates each season with power conference opponents: nine Big Ten games plus Notre Dame. Unless ESPN or Fox offers a truckload of money for a neutral site matchup similar to the LSU showdown in September, the Trojans likely will fill out their nonconference lineup with Group of Five opponents. Is the Pac-12 putting any stock in a possible break-up of the ACC, which would make Cal, Stanford and SMU available as candidates for addition to the conference? — @MarcSheehan006 A: We have heard nothing to suggest the Pac-12 and its consultants foresee an immediate breakup of the ACC despite the lawsuits filed by Clemson and Florida State. But are they considering that outcome in the longer-term plans for the conference? Absolutely. (And by longer term, we mean the early 2030s, when the entire major conference structure could come tumbling down.) Providing a safety net for the Cardinal and Bears — and perhaps the Mustangs — is part of the strategic calculation. The Pac-12 won't expand to the point that it would not be able to easily absorb the Bay Area teams. Will the Pac-12 have a football championship game? — @KoolEconomics A: Like so much else about the rebuilt conference, including the number of football-playing schools, the championship game piece has not been determined. However, it's worth wondering if any conference would stage a title game with eight teams playing just seven league games. (If the Pac-12 ends up with nine or 10 football teams, the calculation changes.) Everything depends on the trajectory of the media rights negotiations and what works best for sending a team to the College Football Playoff. In the next version of the event, which begins in 2026, the criteria for access might make the Pac-12's strategy clear with regard to staging a title game. We should know more sometime this spring. After discussions with their fans online, I believe that Washington State could attract a number of SEC teams to play a game over Labor Day weekend in Seattle. Regardless of the visitor fan count, do you think this would help give WSU a benefit in things such as future playoff allocations or even ending up in a Power Four league? — Dave B A: Respectfully, we would disagree. WSU's support for the game might be strong, but why would SEC teams agree to travel all that way for a game they could play closer to home? SEC coaches and athletic directors assuredly would view the Cougars as a high-level Group of Five opponent playing what is essentially a home game. That's a no-win situation for the visitors. Also, would one of the TV networks pay the cash guarantee needed to make it worthwhile for the SEC team to give up a home game? Unlikely. Add the taxing travel and the limited recruiting benefits, and we struggle to picture any SEC school agreeing to the concept. That said, we like the underlying concept: The Cougars should explore playing a game each season in Seattle. It makes sense on several fronts, just not with the SEC on the opposite sideline. Contact Jon Wilner at wilnerhotline@bayareanewsgroup.com . On X (Twitter): @wilnerhotline Respond: Write a letter to the editor | Write a guest opinion Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!

The International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA) has announced the competition winners for its 37th edition. The awards were unveiled at a ceremony on Thursday in Amsterdam at the Internationaal Theater Amsterdam, just a few blocks from the iconic Rijksmuseum. This year’s IDFA selection includes more than 250 documentary titles, many hinging on the current wars and ideological fissures plaguing the world. In a unanimous decision from jurors Juliana Fanjul, Sophie Fiennes, Grace Lee, Asmae El Moudir, and Kazuhiro Soda, Maciej J. Drygas’ Polish archival documentary “Trains” took the IDFA Award for Best Film in the international competition. The film is a rail journey through 20th-century Europe taking place entirely within steam locomotives and railroad cars. “The jury was unanimous. This is a bold and inventive use of archive. The film shows us routes to the positive and negative consequences of modern industrial innovation. It harnesses the magic of cinema and as an audience we are haunted by our present historical time, even while we bear witness to the past,” the jury said in a statement. The win includes a 15,000 euro cash prize. The IDFA Award for Best Directing (worth 5,000 euros) in the international competition went to Auberi Edler for “An American Pastoral,” centered on ideological battles in a small, conservative Pennsylvania town. “By simply looking and listening, this director reveals the current complexity at the heart of the United States. Her deep commitment to observation allows the viewer to come face to face with the communities in the film and provides critical insight into the results of the last U.S presidential election,” said the jury. The IDFA Award for Best Editing also went to Maciej J. Drygas for “Trains,” while the IDFA Award for Best Cinematography went to Zvika Gregory Portnoy and Zuzanna Solakiewicz for the refugee portrait “The Guest,” from Poland and Qatar. In the Envision Competition, which showcases daring international and world premieres, the award for Best Film went to “Chronicles of the Absurd,” a hybrid portrait of Kafkaesque repression within and outside Cuba. “Formally complex with a film language that arises organically and directly from its limitations, this film impressed us with the use of an audio track as a political diary,” the jury said. The Award for Best Directing in the Envision Competition went to Massimo D’Anolfi and Martina Parenti for “Bestiaries, Herbaria, Lapidaries” (Italy/Switzerland), while the Award for Outstanding Artistic Contribution went in a tie to Omar Mismar for “A Frown Gone Mad” (Lebanon) and to Yo-Hen So for “Park” (Taiwan). The jury members for the Envision Competition were Sam Green, Nduka Mntambo, Kumjana Novakova, B. Ruby Rich, and Wael Shawky. In the DocLab Competition for Immersive Non-Fiction, Lisa Schamlé won the top prize for “Me, a Depiction” hailing from the Netherlands. Another local title, “The Liminal” (also from Lebanon, Palestine, and Norway) from Alaa Al Minawi won a special mention in that section. Pegah Tabassinejad’s “Entropic Fields of Displacement” (Canada) won the IDFA DocLab Award for Digital Storytelling. Emeline Courcier’s “Burn from Absence” (France/Canada) received the DocLab Special Mention for Digital Storytelling. In the short documentary competition, Theo Panagopoulos’ “The Flowers Stand Silently, Witnessing” (U.K.) won for Best Short Documentary. A special mention also went to “Mama Micra” (Germany) by Rebecca Blöcher. The IDFA Award for Best Youth Documentary (13+) went to Eefje Blankevoort and Lara Aerts for “Everything Will Be Alright” (Netherlands). A special mention here went to “Simply Divine” (France/Romania) by Mélody Boulissière. The IDFA Award for Best Youth Documentary (9-12) went to Poorva Bhat for “What’s the Film About?” (India). Martijn Blekendaal received a special mention here for “The Invisible Ones” (Netherlands/Belgium). More overall awards were given, including The IDFA Award for Best First Feature for “CycleMahesh” (India) by Suhel Banerjee. The IDFA Award for Best Dutch Film went to Luuk Bouwman for “The Propagandist” (Netherlands). The Beeld & Geluid IDFA ReFrame Award went to Farahnaz Sharifi for “My Stolen Planet” (Iran/Germany), a moving essay film about the filmmaker’s experience emigrating to Germany at the peak of the Woman, Life, Freedom protests in her home country, which she watched from afar on social media. Radu Jude and Christian Ferencz-Flatz received the Beeld & Geluid IDFA ReFrame Award special mention for “Eight Postcards from Utopia” (Romania), a collage of Romanian commercials made after the country converted to capitalism after Nicolae Ceaușescu’s death. inally, the FIPRESCI Award went to “Writing Hawa” (France/Netherlands/Qatar/Afghanistan) by Najiba Noori. IDFA opened on Thursday, November 14 and runs through Sunday, November 24. Festival director Orwa Nyrabia, who has been at IDFA since 2018, previously announced that he will step down after this year’s edition.NoneMarielle de León: from LGBTQ+ rights activism to the San Juan Municipal Legislature

AFC standouts meet when Herbert, Chargers host Jackson's Ravens on Monday nightCharleston Southern stuns Miami in basketballUS budget airlines are struggling. Will pursuing premium passengers solve their problems?DULUTH — Friends and colleagues took to social media to remember Mary Murphy upon the news of her death on Wednesday, Dec. 25. Murphy was the longest-serving female legislator and second-longest-serving member of the Minnesota House. Murphy died at the age of 85 on Christmas Day, just days after suffering a stroke . ADVERTISEMENT House Speaker Melissa Hortman (DFL-Fridley) announced Murphy’s death in a post on Facebook, which read: “She was a wonderful state representative and human being. So many people will miss her, and remember her and her accomplishments fondly.” “Mary was in so many ways ahead of her time and was often the only woman at the table in northern Minnesota,” U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar said in a statement. “That’s changed now thanks to her trailblazing legacy.” Murphy was first elected to serve House District 14B from 1977-1982 and went on to serve District 8A from 1983-2002, District 6B from 2003-2012 and District 3B from 2013-2022. In 2022, Murphy lost the District 3B race against Republican Natalie Zeleznikar by a mere 33 votes. Zeleznikar, who retained the seat in the 2024 election, expressed condolences in a Facebook post, writing: “Mary worked hard for northern Minnesota, a place she called home her entire lifetime. Her dedication, service and hard work can be witnessed in multiple projects across the communities she served. I was honored to know her, and work with her on senior care issues during my nursing home administrator years.” A Hermantown High School graduate, Murphy earned a bachelor's degree in history and economics from the College of St. Scholastica and attended graduate school at multiple universities. Before retiring from the classroom in 1997, Murphy also served as a history and social studies teacher at Central High School in Duluth for more than three decades, a career Klobuchar cited in her tribute. ADVERTISEMENT “As a former teacher, she was a strong advocate for improving education for our children and she also fought to protect victims of domestic violence and stalking,” Klobuchar’s statement said. Murphy had championed programs like Head Start and DARE, as well as initiated legislation to fund statewide juvenile correction facilities. Last January, St. Louis County commissioners honored Murphy by renaming the Environmental Trust Fund in her honor. Having worked alongside Murphy during the redistricting process in 2010, Deputy Mayor of St. Paul Jaime Tincher commented: “Mary didn’t raise her voice, she didn’t engage in political sparring. Instead, she led with the quiet power of earned trust and deep credibility. Her effectiveness was rooted in the respect she had built over decades of service, and her ability to bring people together in ways that made them feel heard and valued, no matter their political affiliation.” During Murphy’s time in the House, she chaired multiple committees, including the judiciary finance, ethics, energy, and state government and veterans affairs committees. “As chair of bonding and later the Ways and Means Committee, she demonstrated an unwavering dedication to institutional support, always willing to offer her wisdom and advice on how best to approach the financial needs of our zoos,” State Rep. John Huot (DFL-Rosemount) posted on Facebook. “Mary was a remarkable legislator and a compassionate friend and mentor to many,” State Rep. Jay Xiong (DFL-St. Paul) said in a Facebook post. “Her unwavering commitment to her community and tireless advocacy for those in need have left an indelible mark on our state. Mary's legacy will continue to inspire us all as we strive to uphold the values she championed.” ADVERTISEMENT Murphy left a legacy of advocacy for women’s rights, health care, criminal justice, and labor and advocacy issues. Gov. Tim Walz spoke of Murphy as a “true champion for the Northland” in his post on Facebook and said “Gwen (his wife) and I are sending our love to her family.”

Conor McGregor's fiancée Dee Devlin breaks silence after shamed UFC star lost civil sex assault trialSYM Investor Alert: A Securities Fraud Class Action Lawsuit Has Been Filed Against Symbotic Inc. - Contact Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP

Share Tweet Share Share Email Alternative finance is reshaping how businesses, individuals, and startups raise capital. Traditional funding methods, such as bank loans or venture capital, no longer hold the same dominance they once did. Instead, non-traditional funding mechanisms are gaining momentum, offering more flexible, accessible, and diverse options. What is Alternative Finance? Alternative finance refers to any funding method that falls outside traditional banking and financial institutions. It encompasses a wide range of non-traditional financial services, from crowdfunding and peer-to-peer lending to invoice financing and cryptocurrency-based investments. These methods are typically facilitated by online platforms or networks, leveraging technology to connect lenders and borrowers, investors and entrepreneurs, more directly and efficiently. The Factors Behind the Rise of Alternative Finance Several factors have contributed to the rise of alternative finance. Understanding these factors provides insight into why businesses and individuals are increasingly turning to non-traditional funding mechanisms. Digitalization and Technology The internet and digital platforms have made it easier for individuals and businesses to access financing. Technological advancements, particularly in fintech, have streamlined processes and made financial transactions faster, cheaper, and more transparent. This has allowed platforms like Kickstarter, LendingClub, and others to flourish. Technology also enables the use of data analytics, enhancing credit risk assessments and providing more tailored financing solutions. Limited Access to Traditional Financing For many businesses, particularly startups and small enterprises, traditional funding routes have become increasingly difficult to navigate. Banks have tightened their lending criteria, and venture capital is often out of reach for those without established reputations or substantial assets . Alternative finance has emerged as a solution to this problem, offering more inclusive and accessible options for funding. Changing Consumer Preferences Consumers are becoming more inclined to explore non-traditional funding options. This shift is driven by the desire for greater flexibility, lower interest rates, and faster access to capital. Furthermore, millennials and Gen Z are particularly receptive to alternative finance platforms, attracted by their digital-first nature and the opportunity to support causes or businesses they believe in. Lower Regulatory Barriers While traditional financial institutions are heavily regulated, many alternative finance mechanisms operate with less stringent oversight. This regulatory flexibility enables quicker decision-making and lower costs, benefitting both lenders and borrowers. However, it is essential to note that this relatively relaxed regulatory environment also poses certain risks that must be managed appropriately. Popular Types of Alternative Finance Alternative finance encompasses a variety of models. These models offer different approaches to funding and can cater to a wide range of financial needs. Crowdfunding Crowdfunding allows individuals to pool their resources to fund a business idea, product, or project. Platforms such as Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and GoFundMe have become well-known for helping entrepreneurs raise funds through contributions from a large number of people. Crowdfunding can be donation-based, rewards-based, or equity-based. In donation-based crowdfunding, backers donate without expecting any financial return. Rewards-based crowdfunding provides supporters with tangible rewards or recognition. Equity crowdfunding allows contributors to invest in a company in exchange for shares. Peer-to-Peer Lending (P2P) Peer-to-peer lending, also known as P2P lending, involves individuals lending money to other individuals or businesses via online platforms like LendingClub, Prosper, and Funding Circle. P2P platforms bypass traditional financial institutions, reducing the costs associated with borrowing and lending. This form of lending also opens up opportunities for individuals with lower credit scores or limited access to capital to secure funding. Invoice Financing Invoice financing allows businesses to borrow against the value of their outstanding invoices. This provides immediate cash flow, without waiting for clients to settle their bills. Invoice financing is particularly useful for businesses that experience long payment cycles. Platforms such as Fundbox and MarketInvoice offer businesses access to cash by using invoices as collateral. Equity Investment and Venture Capital Equity crowdfunding has gained significant traction in recent years. It enables businesses, particularly startups, to raise capital by offering shares of their company to a large number of investors. In contrast to traditional venture capital, where investors take an active role in business decisions , equity crowdfunding allows businesses to raise funds without giving up too much control. Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain Cryptocurrency investments, facilitated by blockchain technology, have become an emerging form of alternative finance. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies have attracted significant investment, driven by their potential for high returns and the decentralization of financial systems. Blockchain technology also allows for faster and more secure transactions, making it a promising area for alternative finance. Benefits of Alternative Finance The rise of alternative finance offers numerous benefits for borrowers, lenders, and investors alike. These benefits make non-traditional funding mechanisms an attractive option. Increased Access to Capital One of the most significant advantages of alternative finance is its ability to provide businesses and individuals with easier access to capital. Traditional banks often impose strict criteria for lending, which can be difficult for startups, small businesses, or individuals with low credit scores to meet. Alternative finance platforms offer more lenient conditions, increasing the pool of eligible borrowers. Flexibility and Speed Non-traditional funding mechanisms typically offer more flexibility and speed compared to traditional financial institutions. Borrowers can often receive funding in a matter of days, rather than weeks or months. Additionally, many alternative finance platforms provide customized loan terms or investment structures that better suit the needs of borrowers and investors. Lower Interest Rates Since alternative finance platforms generally have lower overhead costs than banks, they can offer more competitive interest rates. This makes borrowing cheaper for individuals and businesses that may not have access to traditional financing. Peer-to-peer lending, in particular, often provides lower rates due to the direct nature of transactions. Diversification for Investors For investors, alternative finance offers the opportunity to diversify their portfolios by exploring non-traditional investment avenues. Crowdfunding, P2P lending, and equity investments all present opportunities for individuals to participate in a broader range of projects or startups. This can enhance an investor’s potential for higher returns while mitigating risks through diversification. Challenges of Alternative Finance Despite its numerous advantages, alternative finance does have some challenges and risks. These issues must be carefully considered by both borrowers and investors. Regulatory and Legal Risks Since alternative finance operates in a less-regulated environment compared to traditional financial markets, both lenders and borrowers face higher legal and regulatory risks. Inadequate regulation can lead to fraud, misinformation, or unfair lending practices. There is also a lack of consistent legal frameworks across different regions, which can create uncertainty for participants. Credit Risk For lenders, alternative finance carries the risk of borrower defaults. While P2P lending platforms use algorithms to assess creditworthiness, these models are not foolproof. Furthermore, borrowers on alternative finance platforms may not have a proven track record or sufficient collateral, increasing the risk of non-repayment. Limited Investor Protection Unlike traditional financial markets, alternative finance platforms may offer limited investor protection. Investors in crowdfunding or P2P lending may have little recourse if the business fails or defaults. Although some platforms offer insurance or guarantees, these protections can be minimal and vary significantly from one platform to another. Market Volatility Alternative finance markets, especially those involving cryptocurrencies, can experience significant volatility. For instance, the value of digital currencies can fluctuate dramatically, leading to substantial risks for investors. Similarly, crowdfunding projects and startups may not always achieve their funding goals or experience market setbacks, resulting in financial loss. The Future of Alternative Finance The future of alternative finance appears bright, with continued growth expected across all sectors. As technology continues to advance, more efficient and secure platforms are likely to emerge, addressing current concerns and expanding the reach of non-traditional funding mechanisms. Regulatory bodies are also gradually implementing measures to ensure greater transparency and protect participants from fraud and market manipulation. The growing interest in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing will likely play a significant role in the evolution of alternative finance. Many alternative finance platforms already support businesses with sustainable or socially impactful goals, and this trend is expected to accelerate. Conclusion Alternative finance is rapidly transforming the global financial ecosystem, providing new opportunities for borrowers, lenders, and investors. Its rise is driven by advancements in technology, the increasing demand for flexible financing solutions, and the need for greater inclusivity in the financial sector. However, challenges such as regulatory risks, credit defaults, and market volatility must be addressed for alternative finance to reach its full potential. As the sector evolves, it will continue to disrupt traditional funding models and play an essential role in shaping the future of global finance. Related Items: Alternative Finance , Digitalization and Technology , Non-Traditional Funding Mechanisms Share Tweet Share Share Email CommentsAt the height of the covid lockdowns and mandates a massive portion of the global economy was shut down, leading to supply chain instability, huge job losses and a stagflationary crisis. However, climate change propagandists argued that the event was actually a positive for the planet when it was revealed that emissions fell by 5.4%. They asserted that the covid lockdowns were a practice run for what they called "climate lockdowns" - Presenting a plan for scheduled disruptions to global economic activity as a means to slow the effects of climate change. Globalists also presented climate lockdowns as a kind of collective social punishment in the event that populations refused to cut carbon output on their own. As World Economic Forum "Agenda Contributor" Mariana Mazzucato argued in 2020: "Under a “climate lockdown,” governments would limit private-vehicle use, ban consumption of red meat, and impose extreme energy-saving measures, while fossil-fuel companies would have to stop drilling. To avoid such a scenario, we must overhaul our economic structures and do capitalism differently. Many think of the climate crisis as distinct from the health and economic crises caused by the pandemic. But the three crises – and their solutions – are interconnected..." After a public uproar over the notion of extending pandemic lockdowns into climate lockdowns, the establishment media would go on to "Fact Check" the issue and assert that it was a "conspiracy theory." They lied. The pandemic lockdowns would eventually be exposed as pointless; a disastrous drain on the global economy that did nothing to prevent the spread of the covid virus. But as we witnessed with most of the restrictions instituted during covid, the goal was never to protect the health of the populace. Rather, the goal was to acclimate the populace to an exponentially increasing list of violations of their basic freedoms. One organization that has a distinct interest in diminishing economic activity for the sake of preventing global warming is the International Monetary Fund (IMF). In a recent 'call for global climate action' the IMF states that restrictions on economic activity and general emissions activity would have to far surpass those enforced during the pandemic in order to get to their stated temperature target of less than 1.5 °C. Open lockdowns of developed nations might not ultimately be the tool that globalists use to reach net zero, but carbon taxation on an oppressive scale could end up having the same effect. Carbon taxes could act like steep interest rate increases commonly used by central banks to slow economic activity during inflation. An indirect economic shut down of this magnitude would be absolutely devastating for western nations in particular, resulting in crippling energy shortages, food shortages, job losses, and eventually total collapse and a population plunge. Net zero is not possible otherwise. The IMF and other globalist organizations suggest that all nations must achieve a net zero carbon goal by 2030 in order to avoid the "climate cliff" - The theory that once the Earth hits warming of more than 1.5 °C, there will be a domino effect which will lead to environmental catastrophe and even more carbon emissions and warming . To be clear, there is no evidence whatsoever to support the idea of the climate cliff, primarily because there is no evidence of a causation relationship between carbon emissions and global warming. In fact, there is no evidence that that human industry has a warming effect on the climate whatsoever. Temperature records for hundreds of millions of years prove that warming periods are a mainstay of the Earth's climate history. In comparison, our current era is one of the coldest, not the warmest. Climate scientists ignore this data and use temperature records going back to the 1880s. Meaning, their data is based on a mere 140 years of the Earth's history. The current warming rate is not significant to other periods, nor is there any evidence that human activity is causing it. Data on carbon levels of the past show that temperatures do not necessarily rise in tandem with carbon activity. Carbon emissions are also far lower today than they have been in the past. The claim that carbon concentration due to human activity has a drastic influence on global temperatures (or weather) is absolutely unfounded. The real reason for climate controls and carbon taxes seems to have far more to do with wealth redistribution from developed nations over to developing nations. The agenda is about centralizing the control of national wealth as well as individual liberties and private property. And the IMF, of course, would like to be one of the institutions at the helm of that wealth management empire.

Stonehill earns 90-83 win over New HampshireSurging Ahead in the AI Race While Nvidia often grabs headlines with its soaring stock performance, another player in the semiconductor arena is quietly gaining momentum: Micron Technology. Known for its memory chips like DRAM and NAND, Micron reported a remarkable 400% increase in year-over-year data center revenue, driving its total quarterly revenue up by 84% to $8.7 billion. A Sleepy Giant Awakes Despite an impressive earnings report, Micron’s stock has slipped about 44% from its recent highs. This downturn, however, presents a compelling opportunity for investors. The company’s integrated model, which combines both design and manufacturing, positions it to capitalize effectively during industry booms. AI’s Growing Influence Micron is riding the wave of the AI boom with more than half of its revenue now stemming from data centers. Although recent guidance sent the stock plummeting by 19% due to anticipated softness in consumer segments like smartphones, this appears to be a temporary challenge. Management highlighted that impacts from inventory adjustments should be short-lived, with a rebound expected in the latter half of fiscal 2025. An Undervalued Treasure With close ties to giants like Nvidia, accounting for 13% of its revenue, Micron stands to benefit massively as AI demand intensifies. The High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) market, crucial for AI applications, is projected to expand significantly, potentially quadrupling Micron’s HBM revenue in the coming years. The Takeaway Investors have the chance to acquire Micron stock still underpriced compared to its peers. If the AI cycle continues its upward trajectory, this could translate into substantial returns, making Micron a promising pick in the semiconductor sector. Unveiling Micron’s Potential in the AI Revolution Micron Technology’s Evolving Role in AI As the world witnesses rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), Micron Technology is emerging as a significant player in this transformative wave. Best known for its DRAM and NAND memory chips, Micron is carving a larger niche in the AI-driven semiconductor industry. The company witnessed a stunning 400% year-over-year increase in data center revenue recently, propelling its total quarterly revenue to $8.7 billion—a marked growth of 84%. Pros and Cons of Investing in Micron Investing in Micron has its advantages: – Pros: – Strategic Positioning: Micron’s integrated model of design and manufacturing is well-poised to exploit industry booms, particularly in AI-driven markets. – AI Revenue Boost: The company’s growing focus on data centers means it derives over half its revenue from this expanding sector. – Future HBM Growth: The High Bandwidth Memory market is essential for AI, and significant growth is expected, which could quadruple Micron’s related revenues. – Cons: – Market Volatility: Recent stock dips indicate potential volatility, with a 44% fall from recent highs. – Consumer Segment Weakness: Temporary softness in segments like smartphones may affect near-term performance. Anticipated Market Trends and Growth Looking ahead, industry experts predict substantial expansion in the High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) market. As AI technologies evolve, demanding more robust data processing capabilities, Micron is strategically positioned to benefit from this growth. Furthermore, their collaboration with tech behemoth Nvidia is a remarkable milestone, with around 13% of Micron’s revenue tied to this partnership, hinting at lucrative opportunities as AI demand escalates. Market Analysis and Predictions Micron’s strategic initiatives are closely aligned with broader semiconductor market trends. The growing importance of HBM in AI applications forecasts a promising future for Micron, especially given the projected quadrupling of its HBM revenues in forthcoming years. Investors recognize this potential, particularly as the AI revolution continues to accelerate, making Micron an intriguing prospect for those seeking exposure in the semiconductor sector. Competitive Landscape and Comparisons Compared to its competitors, Micron offers a unique investment proposition: – Nvidia Partnership: Unlike many peers, Micron has secured substantial revenue streams from collaborations with AI giants. – Future-Ready Technologies: While some companies focus heavily on traditional markets, Micron’s emphasis on memory advancements for AI underscores its future-forward strategy. Micron’s positioning in the semiconductor landscape, combined with its integrated model, sets it apart as a formidable contender in tapping the explosive AI market growth. For more insights into Micron’s future and its role in AI, explore their official page at Micron Technology .

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It’s the time of year for gift giving, and early Black Friday sales are already in full swing. But if you’re like me, you might struggle coming up with holiday gift ideas—both for yourself and for others. New accessories are a great place to start, so here’s a collection of many of the best accessory options out there for Apple users—for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and much more. iPhone The iPhone’s MagSafe technology created one of the richest ecosystem of great accessories. Everything from MagSafe chargers to battery packs, car mounts, and more. Also, I never take my iPhone anywhere without AirPods Pro 2 going with it—and they’re currently nearly $100 off . Qi2 3-in-1 portable charger MagSafe Battery Pack ESR MagSafe Car Mount for iPhone Anker 65W charging brick for fast charging AirPods Pro 2 (only $159, discounted from $249) iPad Apple’s iPad lineup offers a lot of variety, from the powerhouse iPad Pro to the surprisingly capable iPad mini. Here are some of the top accessories that pair well with nearly any iPad model you use. Apple Pencil Pro (currently only $98—down from $129) 100W USB-C power adapter for fast charging tomtoc Tablet sleeve bag for protection and style Anker USB-C 8-in-1 hub with Ethernet, HDMI, SD, more Mac Macs are the workhorse machines that many of us earn our livelihood on. And there are tons of accessories that can upgrade your experience, like additional ports, external storage, and more. Here are my recommendations. Samsung T7 external portable SSD Anker USB-C 8-in-1 hub with Ethernet, HDMI, SD, more tomtoc protective MacBook sleeve bag Twelve South aluminum laptop stand for MacBooks AirPods Pro AirPods Pro offer accessory options for a variety of users’ needs, such as magnetic straps that keep you from losing them, foam tips for a better fit, and more. One of my personal favorites: AirFly SE for using airplane entertainment systems with AirPods. Memory foam AirPods Pro eartips for a more comfortable fit AirFly SE for connecting AirPods to in-flight headphone jacks Belemay leather case for AirPods Pro Magnetic strap neckband for preventing lost AirPods Vision Pro The Vision Pro is still fairly early into its life. While you get a lot included in the box upon purchase, the device nonetheless benefits from these additional accessories for desk use, travel, and walking around while spatial computing. Vision Pro aluminum dock stand Spigen travel case for Vision Pro Battery holder with belt clip and more Apple Watch Grabbing a portable USB-C charger for my Apple Watch was a decision I made years ago and have been thankful for ever since. Also, if you like to switch Watch bands but find it a pain, I have a great recommendation for you. Finally, some Apple nostalgia in the form of a Nightstand case. Anker portable USB-C charger for Apple Watch SwapBandIt for easily changing out watch bands Retro Mac stand for Apple Watch Nightstand Mode Apple TV 4K There are just a few Apple TV 4K accessories that I’ve found especially helpful. I’m a fan of the current Siri Remote, but it can still get lost too easily, and an AirTag-compatible silicone case is a great solution. Also, FaceTime is a solid tvOS feature but it basically requires an iPhone mount. A different kind of mount also enables a minimalist home theater setup. Anti-slip silicone case for Siri Remote, AirTag compatible TotalMount for mounting Apple TV iPhone Continuity Camera mount for Apple TV What are the best Apple accessories on your wish list? Let us know in the comments.

Gurgaon: Forest fires in Haryana more than doubled in a year from 82 recorded in FY 2022-23 to 166 in FY 2023-24 – a finding that experts say must prompt the state's govt to come up with a mitigation plan. According to data from the Indian State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023, farm fires went up in Ambala, Faridabad, Panchkula and Yamunanagar. Others remained largely unaffected. In 2022-23 fiscal year, the report said, there were six forest fires in Ambala. The next year, this figure was 19. Faridabad, which did not record any farm fires in 2022-23, saw 12 the year after. Panchkula saw a six-fold jump from 5 to 29 in the same timeframe. And Yamunanagar recorded nearly a four-fold hike, from 19 in FY 2022-23 to 73 in FY 2023-24. Other districts, among them Bhiwani, Charkhi Dadri and Jind, remained untouched by forest fires both the years. ISFR report also noted that most of the state's forested area – 93.9%, or 1,680 sqkm – was not prone to fires. Smaller portions were moderately (4.5%, 79.7 sqkm) and highly (1.6%, 28.9 sqkm) prone. No area was considered highly or extremely prone to forest fires. "The increase in forest fires across various districts, particularly in Ambala, Faridabad, Panchkula and Yamunanagar, highlights the need for immediate action. We are focusing on improving our fire detection systems, increasing patrolling, and raising awareness among local populations to prevent such incidents in the future," a Haryana forest official said on Sunday. Experts said policymakers need to use this data to inform forest management plans and allocate resources effectively. This includes investing in technology for better fire detection systems and responses, and engaging local communities for prevention efforts. "This significant increase in forest fires calls for immediate action to protect these vital ecosystems. It underscores the importance of targeted fire management practices to safeguard the more vulnerable areas and prevent the spread of fires. The fires are mostly in northern areas of Haryana, which is adjoining Himachal Pradesh. Most forest fires are also caused by human actions. Haryana needs to take action to curb the rise of such incidents," said Debadityo Sinha, lead for climate and ecosystems at Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy. Vaishali Rana, an environmental activist, said: "By understanding the patterns and causes of forest fires, the state can better prepare and protect its forests, ensuring they continue to thrive for generations to come."

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