sports background Texas will look to win its fourth straight game and carry a measure of momentum into its inaugural season as a member of the Southeastern Conference when it hosts Northwestern State on Sunday afternoon in Austin, Texas. It's the final tune-up before the SEC gauntlet for the Longhorns (10-2), who roll into Sunday's game with 10 days of rest and after a 98-62 win over New Orleans on Dec. 19. Justin Pope led Texas with a career-high 42 points, the most for a member of the Longhorns since Reggie Freeman had 43 against Fresno State in 1996. Arthur Kaluma added 15 points and Chendall Weaver scored 12 for Texas, which played without star freshman guard Tre Johnson for the second straight game. Johnson has been listed as day-to-day for a return but would be a likely participant to get at least some playing time before the Longhorns' SEC opener at No. 13 Texas A&M on Jan. 4. Texas coach Rodney Terry is looking for focus on the defensive end from his team as it heads into league play. "We want to be playing Texas basketball defensively," Terry said. "We try to protect the paint, we try to keep the guys off the glass, (and be) physical (with our) block outs. Then try to get out and play to a strength of ours. We're a fast team but you've got to be able to get stops to be able to do that and play in transition." Northwestern State (5-6, 2-0 Southland Conference) heads to Austin after an 89-79 win at home over Southern-New Orleans on Dec. 20. Addison Patterson turned in a career performance in the win with 33 points, 10 rebounds and four assists as the Demons won for the third time in four games. The Demons have played four teams from power conferences -- Texas Tech, Oklahoma, LSU and, most recently, Cal on Dec. 14 -- and have lost by at least 16 points in each game. "Our guys are always ready to play," Demons coach Rick Cabrera said. "We had a really good Christmas break to decompress and recuperate. They are just ready and willing to play anyone regardless of conference. Texas is extremely talented, and we are looking forward to competing with one of the top programs in the country." The contest against Texas is the final non-conference game for Northwestern State, which returns to Southland Conference play at home against Nicholls on Jan. 4. The Longhorns have won all five previous games with Northwestern State, most recently a 105-57 victory at home in November 2017. --Field Level MediaAn Israeli hospital says Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has undergone successful prostate surgery. Jerusalem’s Hadassah Medical Center said his prostate was removed late Sunday. Netanyahu was placed under full anesthesia for the procedure. Doctors said he was awake and recovering Sunday night. Netanyahu’s office had said Justice Minister Yariv Levin, a close ally, would serve as acting prime minister during the procedure. Doctors ordered the operation after detecting an infection last week. Netanyahu is expected to remain hospitalized for several days. THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below. TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is having his prostate removed on Sunday, his office said, a procedure that comes as he manages multiple crises including the war in Gaza and his trial for alleged corruption . Netanyahu, who has had a series of health issues in recent years, has gone to great lengths to bolster a public image of himself as a healthy, energetic leader. During his trial this month, he boasted about working 18-hour days, accompanied by a cigar. But as Israel's longest-serving leader, such a grueling workload over a total of 17 years in power could take a toll on his well-being. Netanyahu, 75, is among older world leaders including U.S. President Joe Biden, 82 , President-elect Donald Trump, 78 , Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva , 79, and Pope Francis , 88, who have come under scrutiny for their age and health issues. Netanyahu's latest condition is common in older men, but the procedure has had some fallout. The judges overseeing his trial accepted a request from his lawyer on Sunday to call off three days of testimony scheduled this week. The lawyer, Amit Hadad, had argued that Netanyahu would be fully sedated for the procedure and hospitalized for “a number of days.” Netanyahu's office said Justice Minister Yariv Levin, a close ally, would serve as acting prime minister during the procedure. With so much at stake, Netanyahu’s health in wartime is a concern for both Israelis and the wider world. A turbulent time in the region As Israel’s leader, Netanyahu is at the center of major global events that are shifting the Middle East . With the dizzying pace of the past 14 months, being incapacitated for even a few hours can be risky. Netanyahu will be in the hospital at a time when international mediators are pushing Israel and Hamas to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and as fighting between Israel and Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels intensifies . Prostate issues are common and in many cases easily treatable. Still, the procedure puts a dent in Netanyahu’s image of vigor at a time when he would want to project strength more than ever, both to an Israeli audience navigating constant threats as well as to Israel’s enemies looking to expose its weaknesses. Previous health issues, including a heart condition Netanyahu insists he is in excellent health. His office releases footage of him touring war zones in full protective gear flanked by military officers, or meeting with defense officials on windswept hilltops in youthful dark shades and puffer jackets. But that image was shattered last year when Netanyahu’s doctors revealed that he had a heart condition , a problem that he had apparently long known about but concealed from the public. A week after a fainting spell, Netanyahu was fitted with a pacemaker to control his heartbeat. Only then did staff at the Sheba Medical Center reveal that Netanyahu has for years experienced a condition that can cause irregular heartbeats. The revelation came as Netanyahu was dealing with massive anti-government protests. The news about a chronic heart problem stoked further anger and distrust during extreme political polarization in Israel. Last year, Netanyahu was rushed to the hospital for what doctors said likely was dehydration . He stayed overnight, prompting his weekly Cabinet meeting to be delayed. Earlier this year, Netanyahu underwent hernia surgery , during which he was under full anesthesia and unconscious. Levin served as acting prime minister during the operation. Recovery can be quick According to Netanyahu’s office, the Israeli leader was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection on Wednesday stemming from a benign enlargement of his prostate. The infection was treated successfully with antibiotics, but Sunday's procedure will remove his prostate. Complications from prostate enlargement are common in men in their 70s and 80s, Dr. Shay Golan, head of the oncology urology service at Israel’s Rabin Medical Center, told Israeli Army Radio. Golan spoke in general terms and was not involved in Netanyahu’s care or treatment. He said an enlarged prostate can block proper emptying of the bladder, leading to a build-up of urine that can lead to an infection or other complications. After medicinal treatment, doctors can recommend a procedure to remove the prostate to prevent future blockages, Golan said. In Netanyahu’s case, because the prostate is not cancerous, Golan said doctors will likely perform an endoscopic surgery, carried out by inserting small instruments into a body cavity, rather than making surgical cuts in the abdomen to reach the prostate. The procedure lasts about an hour, Golan said, and recovery is quick. He said that aside from catheter use for one to three days after the procedure, patients can return to normal activity without significant limitations.

How this stigma-breaking housing model offers dignity for all with owners and renters living side by sideAlongside Zeng Fanbo, Solomon showcased his skills in the paint, dominating the boards and making crucial defensive stops. His presence in the key was formidable, as he swatted away shots and grabbed rebounds, providing a solid defensive foundation for Beijing.

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As tension escalated between the two, bystanders began to take notice of the scene unfolding before them. Some intervened, attempting to defuse the situation and calm Sarah down. Others took out their own phones to document the incident, highlighting the pervasive nature of digital voyeurism and the lack of accountability in public spaces.

Rural Community Responds to Drone Crash at Sea During Fireworks Show Due to Signal Interference

Chandigarh: Punjab minister Harjot Singh Bains on Wednesday met Union road transport and highways minister Nitin Gadkari in Delhi to demand four-laning of roads connecting significant religious places such as Kiratpur Sahib , Anandpur Sahib and Naina Devi to facilitate pilgrim movement. Bains said detailed project reports (DPRs) were ready. He stressed the need for four-laning the road from Kiratpur Sahib to Himachal Pradesh’s Una district border at Mahitpur. The minister proposed a 50km greenfield expressway from Anandpur Sahib to Chamkaur Sahib to connect Himachal Pradesh with Ludhiana in Punjab. “If this 50km-long expressway is constructed, it will connect Ropar-Ludhiana highway and Kiratpur-Manali highway,” said Bains, suggesting naming this road Guru Gobind Singh Expressway. Bains, who was with Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora, highlighted the historical and geographical significance of Anandpur Sahib and discussed the region’s need for roads. An official said Gadkari had expressed his approval for four-laning the Kiratpur Sahib, Banga-Anandpur Sahib roads and laying a greenfield expressway from Anandpur Sahib to Chamkaur Sahib. We also published the following articles recently Harjot Bains meets Gadkari to demand four-lane road from Sri Kartarpur Sahib to Nangal-Una Punjab cabinet minister Harjot Singh Bains proposed road projects to Union minister Nitin Gadkari for enhanced connectivity to key religious sites. Gadkari approved the four-laning of roads from Sri Kiratpur Sahib to the Himachal border and Banga to Sri Anandpur Sahib, granting the latter National Highway status. Gadkari calls on Adityanath to discuss major road projects for Maha Kumbh 2025 Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari reviewed infrastructure projects for the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. They emphasized timely completion by December 25, 2024, focusing on highways, bypasses, and a new Ganga bridge. Enhanced safety measures, including CCTV and medical facilities, were discussed, alongside broader road development plans for Uttar Pradesh totaling 1.39 lakh crore. PWD to build underpass near Ajni bridge, widen road to TB Ward Sq to six lanes Nagpur's Ajni RoB area is set for a major traffic decongestion project. A 60-meter underpass will be constructed near the Ajni Railway Station, barring heavy vehicles. The road from Ajni Bridge to TB Ward Square will be expanded to six lanes. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , and Mini Crossword .First and foremost, Son Heung-min's track record speaks for itself. Over the years, he has consistently delivered stellar performances for Tottenham Hotspur, becoming one of the key players for the team. His goal-scoring prowess, blistering pace, and versatility on the pitch have made him a nightmare for opposing defenders. Despite his recent dip in form, it is crucial to remember that every player goes through rough patches, and Son is no exception.3. **Desirable Location and Quality**: Beijing continues to attract buyers due to its status as the political, cultural, and economic center of China. Properties located in prime areas with good infrastructure, amenities, and accessibility to schools, offices, and transportation hubs are in high demand. Additionally, with a focus on quality and modern amenities, both new and old properties are appealing to buyers looking for a comfortable and convenient living environment.

The emergence of Jadon Sancho as a top target for Manchester United is believed to be a major factor in the club's decision to potentially offload Rashford. Sancho, who recently joined the club from Borussia Dortmund in a big-money move, is seen as the future of United's attack. With Sancho settling in well and showing tremendous potential, it is understood that the club is willing to make room for him by allowing Rashford to leave.Despite facing criticism and speculation about his future, Pochettino has received backing from the club's management, signaling their belief in his capabilities and dedication to the team's success. Tottenham's decision to stand by Pochettino underscores the importance of stability and continuity in leadership, especially in a competitive and high-pressure environment like professional football.

President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday tapped Gail Slater, an antitrust veteran and economic adviser for JD Vance, to lead the Department of Justice’s antitrust division and take charge of a full docket of blockbuster monopoly cases against companies including Google, Visa and Apple. Slater is expected to continue the department’s crackdown on Big Tech, including cases brought during Trump’s first term in the White House, Trump wrote in a post on his social media platform. “Big Tech has run wild for years, stifling competition in our most innovative sector and, as we all know, using its market power to crack down on the rights of so many Americans, as well as those of Little Tech!” Trump said. Slater served on the White House’s National Economic Council in 2018, where she worked on Trump’s executive order on national security concerns over Chinese telecommunications equipment. Before joining Vance’s office, Slater worked at Fox Corp. and Roku. Vance, the vice president-elect, has said antitrust officials should take a broader approach to antitrust enforcement, and praised the work of Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan. Slater grew up in Dublin, Ireland, and began her law career in London at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, which brought her to Washington. She spent 10 years at the FTC, first as an antitrust attorney where she brought cases to block mergers including Whole Foods’ acquisition of organic grocer Wild Oats, and later as an adviser to then-commissioner Julie Brill, who later became an executive at Microsoft. Slater also represented Big Tech companies including Amazon and Google at a now-defunct trade group called the Internet Association. She is still viewed as an antitrust hawk among Washington tech skeptics, who welcomed her appointment. Garrett Ventry, a former adviser to Republicans in Congress and founder of GRV Strategies, said Slater’s nomination shows Trump is “serious about taking on Big Tech.” “Antitrust enforcement is here to stay,” Ventry said. The Tech Oversight project, a group that backed the work of Biden’s DOJ antitrust chief, Jonathan Kanter, said the nomination shows antitrust has staying power as a bipartisan political issue. “Gail Slater is a strong candidate to continue that work,” said Sacha Haworth, the group’s executive director. Slater will take over a number of high-profile cases in which some of the world’s largest companies are accused of illegally building and protecting monopolies. Trump said Slater will “ensure that our competition laws are enforced, both vigorously and FAIRLY, with clear rules that facilitate, rather than stifle, the ingenuity of our greatest companies.” The appointment would put Slater in charge of the DOJ’s bid to make Google sell off its Chrome browser and take other measures to curb its dominance in online search. The DOJ filed the case in 2020, during the first Trump administration. But the proposals for fixes came under Kanter. The judge overseeing the case has said Trump officials will not get extra time to reevaluate the proposals ahead of an April trial. Google faces a second battle with the DOJ over its online advertising technology , while Apple faces allegations that it monopolized the US smartphone market . Kanter also filed the DOJ’s first case alleging algorithmic price fixing against property management software company RealPage. In another case, the DOJ is seeking to break up LiveNation and TicketMaster over practices that prosecutors say harm eventgoers and artists . Slater would have wide latitude over the cases, though most are also being pursued by bipartisan state coalitions. A case the DOJ brought in September alleging Visa unlawfully dominates the market for debit card payment processing does not involve state antitrust regulators. Slater would also be in a position to continue or end probes, such as an investigation into Nvidia, the chip company that rode the artificial intelligence boom to become one of the world’s most valuable companies.As tensions continue to escalate within the alliance, it remains to be seen how member countries will respond to Trump's ultimatum. The upcoming NATO summit promises to be a crucial moment for the future of the alliance, as leaders grapple with the implications of a potential U.S. withdrawal and the broader challenges facing NATO in an increasingly complex and uncertain security environment.The Game Awards’ fan-voted game of the year nominees find room for snubs

In conclusion, the decision to raise opposition flags at the Syrian Embassy in Russia is a significant and controversial act that underscores the deep divisions and complexities at play in the Syrian conflict. It is a powerful symbol of defiance and solidarity, but also a provocative gesture that has sparked debate and criticism. Ultimately, it is a reminder of the lasting impact of war and the need for a collective effort to build a more peaceful and just world for all.