234 mini games How Trump's bet on voters electing him managed to silence some of his legal woesRed Violet director Peter Benz sells $935,429 in stock

I write about kitchen products for a living, and these are the 10 cooking tools I'm giving as stocking stuffers

WASHINGTON (AP) — One year after the Jan. 6, 2021 , U.S. Capitol attack, Attorney General Merrick Garland said the Justice Department was committed to holding accountable all perpetrators “at any level” for “the assault on our democracy.” That bold declaration won't apply to at least one person: Donald Trump. Special counsel Jack Smith's move on Monday to abandon the federal election interference case against Trump means jurors will likely never decide whether the president-elect is criminally responsible for his attempts to cling to power after losing the 2020 campaign. The decision to walk away from the election charges and the separate classified documents case against Trump marks an abrupt end of the Justice Department’s unprecedented legal effort that once threatened his liberty but appears only to have galvanized his supporters. The abandonment of the cases accusing Trump of endangering American democracy and national security does away with the most serious legal threats he was facing as he returns to the White House. It was the culmination of a monthslong defense effort to delay the proceedings at every step and use the criminal allegations to Trump's political advantage, putting the final word in the hands of voters instead of jurors. “We always knew that the rich and powerful had an advantage, but I don’t think we would have ever believed that somebody could walk away from everything,” said Stephen Saltzburg, a George Washington University law professor and former Justice Department official. “If there ever was a Teflon defendant, that’s Donald Trump.” While prosecutors left the door open to the possibility that federal charges could be re-filed against Trump after he leaves office, that seems unlikely. Meanwhile, Trump's presidential victory has thrown into question the future of the two state criminal cases against him in New York and Georgia. Trump was supposed to be sentenced on Tuesday after his conviction on 34 felony counts in his New York hush money case , but it's possible the sentencing could be delayed until after Trump leaves office, and the defense is pushing to dismiss the case altogether. Smith's team stressed that their decision to abandon the federal cases was not a reflection of the merit of the charges, but an acknowledgement that they could not move forward under longstanding Justice Department policy that says sitting presidents cannot face criminal prosecution. Trump's presidential victory set “at odds two fundamental and compelling national interests: On the one hand, the Constitution’s requirement that the President must not be unduly encumbered in fulfilling his weighty responsibilities . . . and on the other hand, the Nation’s commitment to the rule of law,” prosecutors wrote in court papers. The move just weeks after Trump's victory over Vice President Kamala Harris underscores the immense personal stake Trump had in the campaign in which he turned his legal woes into a political rallying cry. Trump accused prosecutors of bringing the charges in a bid to keep him out of the White House, and he promised revenge on his perceived enemies if he won a second term. “If Donald J. Trump had lost an election, he may very well have spent the rest of his life in prison,” Vice President-elect JD Vance, wrote in a social media post on Monday. “These prosecutions were always political. Now it’s time to ensure what happened to President Trump never happens in this country again.” After the Jan. 6 attack by Trump supporters that left more than 100 police officers injured, Republican leader Mitch McConnell and several other Republicans who voted to acquit Trump during his Senate impeachment trial said it was up to the justice system to hold Trump accountable. The Jan. 6 case brought last year in Washington alleged an increasingly desperate criminal conspiracy to subvert the will of voters after Trump's 2020 loss, accusing Trump of using the angry mob of supporters that attacked the Capitol as “a tool” in his campaign to pressure then-Vice President Mike Pence and obstruct the certification of Democrat Joe Biden's victory. Hundreds of Jan. 6 rioters — many of whom have said they felt called to Washington by Trump — have pleaded guilty or been convicted by juries of federal charges at the same courthouse where Trump was supposed to stand trial last year. As the trial date neared, officials at the courthouse that sits within view of the Capitol were busy making plans for the crush of reporters expected to cover the historic case. But Trump's argument that he enjoyed absolute immunity from prosecution quickly tied up the case in appeals all the way up to the Supreme Court. The high court ruled in July that former presidents have broad immunity from prosecution , and sent the case back to the trial court to decide which allegations could move forward. But the case was dismissed before the trial court could get a chance to do so. The other indictment brought in Florida accused Trump of improperly storing at his Mar-a-Lago estate sensitive documents on nuclear capabilities, enlisting aides and lawyers to help him hide records demanded by investigators and cavalierly showing off a Pentagon “plan of attack” and classified map. But U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon dismissed the case in July on grounds that Smith was illegally appointed . Smith appealed to the Atlanta-based 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, but abandoned that appeal on Monday. Smith's team said it would continue its fight in the appeals court to revive charges against Trump's two co-defendants because “no principle of temporary immunity applies to them.” In New York, jurors spent weeks last spring hearing evidence in a state case alleging a Trump scheme to illegally influence the 2016 election through a hush money payment to a porn actor who said the two had sex. New York prosecutors recently expressed openness to delaying sentencing until after Trump's second term, while Trump's lawyers are fighting to have the conviction dismissed altogether. In Georgia, a trial while Trump is in office seems unlikely in a state case charging him and more than a dozen others with conspiring to overturn his 2020 election loss in the state. The case has been on hold since an appeals court agreed to review whether to remove Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis over her romantic relationship with the special prosecutor she had hired to lead the case. ____ Associated Press reporter Lisa Mascaro in Washington contributed.Conners, Tate lead Appalachian State over Sam Houston 66-63How major US stock indexes fared Friday, 11/22/2024

Carbon Revolution Announces Receipt of Non-Compliance Letter from NasdaqFox News justice correspondent David Spunt reflects on the life and legacy of former President Jimmy Carter on ‘Fox News Live.’ President-elect Trump and President Biden reacted to the death of former President Jimmy Carter on Sunday, with Trump saying, "we all owe him a debt of gratitude," and Biden honoring his "dear friend." Carter, who was the 39th president of the United States and a peanut farmer whose vision of a "competent and compassionate" government propelled him into the White House, died at his home in Plains, Georgia, on Sunday at the age of 100. "I just heard of the news about the passing of President Jimmy Carter. Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as President understand this is a very exclusive club, and only we can relate to the enormous responsibility of leading the Greatest Nation in History," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude. "Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers," the incoming president added. JIMMY CARTER, 39TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, DEAD AT 100 Former President Jimmy Carter discusses his cancer diagnosis during a press conference at the Carter Center on August 20, 2015 in Atlanta, Georgia. Carter confirmed that he has melanoma that has spread to his liver and brain and will start treatment today. (Jessica McGowan/Getty Images) Also weighing in was President Biden, who said, "the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian." "Over six decades, we had the honor of calling Jimmy Carter a dear friend. But, what’s extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well," Biden wrote. "With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us. He saved, lifted, and changed the lives of people all across the globe." Biden referred to Carter as a man of great character and courage, hope and optimism. FORMER PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER TO SPEND 'REMAINING TIME' AT HOME RECEIVING HOSPICE CARE U.S. President Jimmy Carter announces new sanctions against Iran in retaliation for taking U.S. Hostages, Washington, D.C., USA, photograph by Marion S. Trikosko, April 7, 1980. (Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) He also said he and his wife will cherish seeing Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, together, noting that the love between the two is the "definition of partnership," while their leadership is the definition of "patriotism." "We will miss them both dearly, but take solace knowing they are reunited once again and will remain forever in our hearts," Biden said . "To the entire Carter family, we send our gratitude for sharing them with America and the world. To their staff – from the earliest days to the final ones – we have no doubt that you will continue to do the good works that carry on their legacy. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "And 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. He showed that we are great nation because we are a good people – decent and honorable, courageous and compassionate, humble and strong," Biden added. Greg Wehner is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital. Story tips and ideas can be sent to Greg.Wehner@Fox.com and on Twitter @GregWehner.

White Ferns’ coach gets to defend World Cup titleIAEA’s blueprint for a resilient world These efforts highlight laboratories' role in addressing some of most pressing sustainability challenges of our time The International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) member-states have made a significant stride toward global sustainability by adopting a declaration emphasising the vital role of nuclear science, technology, and applications in addressing pressing global challenges. This unanimous decision was reached during the 2024 IAEA Ministerial Conference, held from November 26 to 28 in Vienna, Austria, where ministers and senior officials convened to reaffirm their collective commitment to leveraging the transformative power of nuclear technology for the benefit of humanity. Nuclear science and technology are uniquely equipped to address multifaceted global challenges, ranging from healthcare and agriculture to climate change and sustainable development. The declaration highlights this potential by showcasing the success of initiatives like ZODIAC (Zoonotic Disease Integrated Action), NUTEC Plastics (addressing plastic pollution), Rays of Hope (cancer treatment and prevention), Atoms4Food (food security), and Atoms4NetZero (climate action). These programmes exemplify the versatility of nuclear applications, translating complex scientific advancements into practical, life-changing solutions that directly benefit communities worldwide. Rays of Hope, for instance, is instrumental in strengthening cancer diagnosis and treatment capabilities in underserved regions, ensuring that even low-resource settings have access to advanced medical technologies. This initiative contributes not only to individual health but also to broader health system resilience by addressing inequities in healthcare. Similarly, ZODIAC aids in the early detection and prevention of zoonotic diseases, reinforcing global health security and safeguarding populations from pandemics. By combining nuclear technology with epidemiological surveillance, ZODIAC represents a forward-thinking approach to combating emerging health threats. Equally important, NUTEC Plastics leverages nuclear techniques to provide innovative solutions for mitigating plastic waste. This programme aligns nuclear technology with environmental conservation efforts, advancing global objectives for reducing plastic pollution while fostering sustainable practices. By integrating nuclear methods into environmental management, NUTEC Plastics offers scalable and practical solutions to one of the most pressing ecological crises of our time. At the heart of the declaration is the recognition of the IAEA's Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) as a pivotal mechanism for transferring nuclear technology and expertise to member-states. This programme facilitates access to state-of-the-art materials, equipment, and knowledge, ensuring that countries, regardless of their economic standing, can benefit from the peaceful applications of nuclear science. By prioritising capacity building, the TCP fosters self-reliance and sustainability, enabling nations to apply nuclear techniques effectively across various sectors. The TCP exemplifies international solidarity by addressing localised challenges through tailored nuclear solutions. For example, climate-smart agriculture supported by nuclear applications is helping farmers in Asia increase rice productivity while enhancing resource efficiency. The programme further facilitates the application of nuclear techniques to enhance resilience and mitigate the effects of climate change. Through isotope hydrology, for instance, countries can assess groundwater availability, predict droughts, and optimise the use of water resources, ensuring sustainable management of this vital asset. In coastal and marine environments, the programme supports studies on marine pollution and coral bleaching, aiding nations in preserving their ecosystems and safeguarding biodiversity. Small island developing states, which often bear the brunt of rising sea levels and extreme weather events, benefit significantly from these technologies. The programme provides them with tools to better understand and respond to the changing climate, reinforcing their ability to protect livelihoods and promote sustainable development. The TCP fosters collaboration among member-states, promoting the exchange of knowledge and expertise on innovative nuclear solutions to shared environmental challenges. This cooperative approach not only bolsters global efforts to combat climate change but also creates a network of nations equipped to address future crises with advanced, science-driven strategies. Integral to these efforts are the IAEA’s Nuclear Applications Laboratories in Seibersdorf, Vienna, and Monaco, which serve as hubs for developing and refining nuclear techniques and ensuring their effective dissemination to member-states. These laboratories conduct cutting-edge research and provide specialized training, equipping countries with the tools and expertise needed to implement nuclear technologies effectively. For instance, they advance climate-smart agricultural practices by developing methods like the sterile insect technique (SIT) to control pests without harmful chemicals, enhancing agricultural productivity while promoting environmental sustainability. The laboratories also support water resource management initiatives, particularly in arid regions, using isotopic techniques to assess groundwater availability and quality, enabling sustainable use of this critical resource. Together, these efforts highlight the laboratories' pivotal role in addressing some of the most pressing sustainability challenges of our time. An essential aspect of the declaration is its focus on inclusivity, particularly the need to attract more women to nuclear sciences and cultivate the next generation of nuclear professionals. This commitment reflects a broader effort to address gender disparities in STEM fields, ensuring that the benefits of nuclear technology are amplified through diverse perspectives and talent. The IAEA has long recognised the importance of gender equality in advancing its mission. By supporting initiatives to encourage women to pursue careers in nuclear science and technology, the agency not only addresses gender imbalances but also strengthens the overall capacity of the field. Increased diversity brings fresh perspectives, fostering innovation and creativity in addressing complex challenges. The declaration also emphasises the importance of engaging youth and fostering the next generation of nuclear scientists, engineers, and professionals. By offering scholarships, training programmes, and mentorship opportunities, the IAEA ensures that the knowledge and expertise needed to harness nuclear technology are passed on to future leaders. This investment in human capital is critical for sustaining the advancements made in nuclear applications and for ensuring their continued relevance in a rapidly changing world. The declaration commends the IAEA’s efforts to foster partnerships across the United Nations system and with both traditional and non-traditional donors, including the private sector. These collaborations enhance the agency’s ability to mobilize resources, expand the reach of its initiatives, and achieve shared goals such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For instance, partnerships with the private sector enable the IAEA to leverage additional expertise and funding, accelerating the development and deployment of nuclear technologies. Collaborations with other UN agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), ensure that nuclear applications are integrated into broader efforts to improve health, food security, and environmental sustainability. The adoption of this declaration reaffirms the IAEA’s pivotal role in promoting peaceful uses of nuclear technology to drive sustainable development. Nuclear applications are directly aligned with several SDGs, including Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), Goal 13 (Climate Action), and Goal 14 (Life Below Water). For example, the IAEA’s work in agriculture supports SDG 2 by improving crop yields and ensuring food security through advanced nuclear techniques. Similarly, its contributions to cancer diagnosis and treatment align with SDG 3, addressing global health disparities and saving lives. In the realm of environmental sustainability, the agency’s efforts to monitor and mitigate the effects of climate change directly support SDG 13, while its initiatives in ocean health contribute to SDG 14. The declaration emphasises the interconnectedness of these goals, highlighting the unique ability of nuclear science to provide integrated solutions to complex global challenges. By leveraging its expertise and resources, the IAEA is well-positioned to play a central role in advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The adoption of this declaration is a landmark moment for the IAEA and its member-states, reflecting a shared vision for leveraging nuclear science and technology to address the world’s most pressing challenges. By emphasising innovation, inclusivity, and international cooperation, the declaration sets a path forward that aligns nuclear applications with global priorities for sustainability and resilience. This momentous agreement not only underscores the progress made in nuclear science and technology but also sets a vision for their continued contribution to a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient future. As the world faces evolving global challenges, the IAEA’s leadership and the collective resolve of its member-states will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of progress. By fostering collaboration, investing in human capital, and advancing cutting-edge research, the IAEA and its partners are building a future where nuclear science is not only a tool for addressing current challenges but also a catalyst for long-term global prosperity. This declaration reaffirms the agency’s commitment to peaceful nuclear applications, ensuring that their transformative potential continues to benefit all of humanity. The writer is a professor of physics at the University of Karachi.India News | Security Beefed Up in Panipat for PM Modi's Visit on MondayFox News justice correspondent David Spunt reflects on the life and legacy of former President Jimmy Carter on ‘Fox News Live.’ President-elect Trump and President Biden reacted to the death of former President Jimmy Carter on Sunday, with Trump saying, "we all owe him a debt of gratitude," and Biden honoring his "dear friend." Carter, who was the 39th president of the United States and a peanut farmer whose vision of a "competent and compassionate" government propelled him into the White House, died at his home in Plains, Georgia, on Sunday at the age of 100. "I just heard of the news about the passing of President Jimmy Carter. Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as President understand this is a very exclusive club, and only we can relate to the enormous responsibility of leading the Greatest Nation in History," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude. "Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers," the incoming president added. JIMMY CARTER, 39TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, DEAD AT 100 Former President Jimmy Carter discusses his cancer diagnosis during a press conference at the Carter Center on August 20, 2015 in Atlanta, Georgia. Carter confirmed that he has melanoma that has spread to his liver and brain and will start treatment today. (Jessica McGowan/Getty Images) Also weighing in was President Biden, who said, "the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian." "Over six decades, we had the honor of calling Jimmy Carter a dear friend. But, what’s extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well," Biden wrote. "With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us. He saved, lifted, and changed the lives of people all across the globe." Biden referred to Carter as a man of great character and courage, hope and optimism. FORMER PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER TO SPEND 'REMAINING TIME' AT HOME RECEIVING HOSPICE CARE U.S. President Jimmy Carter announces new sanctions against Iran in retaliation for taking U.S. Hostages, Washington, D.C., USA, photograph by Marion S. Trikosko, April 7, 1980. (Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) He also said he and his wife will cherish seeing Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, together, noting that the love between the two is the "definition of partnership," while their leadership is the definition of "patriotism." "We will miss them both dearly, but take solace knowing they are reunited once again and will remain forever in our hearts," Biden said . "To the entire Carter family, we send our gratitude for sharing them with America and the world. To their staff – from the earliest days to the final ones – we have no doubt that you will continue to do the good works that carry on their legacy. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "And 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. He showed that we are great nation because we are a good people – decent and honorable, courageous and compassionate, humble and strong," Biden added. Greg Wehner is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital. Story tips and ideas can be sent to Greg.Wehner@Fox.com and on Twitter @GregWehner.

Robert Lewandowski equaled Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo’s UEFA Champions League Feat in Barcelona’s 3-0 win against Brest on Tuesday night. Lewandowski bagged a brace in the comfortable win for Barcelona against the French team. The former Bayern striker has become just the third player to score 100 goals in the UEFA Champions League, along with Ronaldo (140) and Messi (129). Lewandowski opened the scoring for Barcelona in the 10th minute before Dani Olmo made it 2-0 on 66 minutes. Then in the 92nd minute Lewandowski made it 3-0 for Hansi Flick’s men. After five games played, Barcelona are now in second place on 12 points in the Champions League standing. The Catalans are just one point behind leaders Inter Milan.Trump is stacking his White House roster with uber-rich backers - CNBC

A look at the key moments, players and plays from the Nevada Wolf Pack men's basketball team's 66-63 loss to the Wyoming Cowboys on Saturday afternoon at Laramie, Wyo ... KEY NEVADA RUN The Wolf Pack only mustered enough consistency on Saturday to have one meaningful run. The Pack outscored the Cowboys 8-0 over a four-minute stretch to turn a 23-16 deficit with 4:34 left in the first half into a 24-23 lead with 27 seconds left before the break. A 3-pointer by Xavier DuSell started the run and a jumper by Kobe Sanders capped it off. But even that mini-Pack run was sprinkled with missteps and mistakes as Nick Davidson and Tyler Rolison turned over the ball and Tre Coleman missed a free throw and a layup. KEY WYOMING RUNS Wyoming, too, struggled to play solid basketball for more than brief moments on their own court. The Cowboys did go on a 9-0 run to turn a 9-8 deficit with 12:49 left in the first half into a 17-9 lead with 9:56 to go. An 8-0 Wyoming run midway through the second half turned a 36-33 Wolf Pack lead with 14:31 to play into a 41-36 Wyoming lead with 12:12 to go. Neither team led by more than three over the final 10 minutes of the game. KEY COACHING DECISION Nevada coach Steve Alford replaced Xavier DuSell and Brandon Love in the starting lineup with Daniel Foster and Justin McBride and watched his offense struggle to find any rhythm. Love, who played in the Pack's first dozen games, did not play at all while DuSell, one of the top 3-point shooters in the nation, was on the floor for just 12 minutes and produced just three points. Foster and McBride combined for 55 minutes and produced 14 points (11 by McBride), six rebounds (five by McBride), five fouls, two assists, three turnovers, two steals and three blocks (all by McBride). KEY LOSS OF IDENTITY The Wolf Pack was just 5-of-11 on threes against Wyoming. The success rate was impressive (46 percent) but the lack of attempts was disturbing considering how much the offense struggled. The 11 3-point attempts is the second fewest this season for the Wolf Pack, behind the 10 it took in the second game (63-53 win over Washington) of the season. The Pack was 13-of-33 and 18-of-36 on threes in consecutive non-league wins over South Dakota State and Texas Southern on Dec. 11 and 14 but followed that up by going 11-of-27 combined on threes in losses to Colorado State and Wyoming (Dec. 21, 28) to open the Mountain West season. Kobe Sanders, Justin McBride, Tre Coleman, Tyler Rolison and Xavier DuSell were just a combined 1-of-3 on threes on Saturday after going 79-of-188 (42 percent) combined over the first 12 games. KEY COWBOY STRATEGY The Wyoming defense basically suffocated the Pack offense and forced Nevada to play the Cowboys' methodical slow-paced style. The Pack shot well enough (45 percent on field goals, 46 percent on threes) but its offense seemed to be stuck in a blinding blizzard a few miles away out on Interstate 80 outside the Cowboys' Arena-Auditorium. The Pack put up just 47 shots the entire game, its second fewest (44 against VCU on Nov. 22) this season. The 21 successful field goals equals its season low (done three times before against Washington, VCU and Loyola Marymount). The Pack, according to the official stats, also did not have a single fast-break point (neither did Wyoming, which also seemed like it was digging out of a snowdrift the entire game on offense). KEY WYOMING STAT Wyoming's bench outscored the Pack bench, 30-12. It's difficult, though, to read much into those numbers because the Pack lineup was discombobulated and out of sync the entire game because of Alford's decision to start role players Foster and McBride. All of the points from the bench came from Tyler Rolison (five), K.J. Hymes (four) and Xavier DuSell (three) with none of them coming in the final 10 minutes of the game. KEY HIDDEN FACTOR The Wolf Pack missed 16 shots in the paint against the Cowboys. Nick Davidson was the biggest culprit, going just 1-of-7 on either layups or shots in the paint on his way to a 4-of-14 performance overall from the floor. Davidson, who also had a game-high six turnovers, missed back-to-back shots in the paint with the Pack trailing 54-52 with just under seven minutes to play and missed again in the paint with the Pack down 61-59 with 3:11 left. He also pulled down an offensive rebound and missed the layup with 13:16 to go in the second half. KEY PACK NEMESES The difference in the game might have been Wyoming reserves Touko Tainamo, Dontaie Allen and Scottie Ebube. The three combined to score 28 points over their 64 minutes off the bench on 8-of-13 shooting, 5-of-6 on threes and 7-of-8 from the line. Allen had a huge 3-pointer for a 58-56 lead with five minutes to play and also drained one for a 44-40 lead midway through the second half. Tainamo hit threes for leads of 49-46 (9:30 left) and 54-52 (7:19 left). KEY COWBOY Obi Agbim, a 6-foot-3 senior transfer who spent his first four college seasons at Fort Lewis College, Northeastern Junior College and Metro State, filled his role as team leader admirably on Saturday. Agbim, who has scored 20 or more points five times this year, finished with 18 against the Pack on efficient 7-of-12 shooting (4-of-7 on threes) without getting to the line once. He also had four assists and two steals. KEY NEVADA STAT The Wolf Pack defense had 16 blocks (seven) and steals (nine) combined against Wyoming. It is the second most blocks and steals combined the Pack has had in a game this year behind 17 (eight blocks, nine steals) it had in a 73-71 loss to Vanderbilt on Nov. 21. Justin McBride led the Pack against Wyoming with three blocks while Kobe Sanders led with three steals. Wyoming, by comparison, had just four steals and no blocks. The 6-8 McBride, a transfer from Oklahoma State, was making his first start of his two-year career. He now has eight blocks this year after getting just three in 24 games (roughly seven minutes a game) last year at Oklahoma State. KEY PACK CONCERN The Wolf Pack is now 0-2 in the Mountain West for the first time since 2012-13. That team finished 12-19 overall and 3-13 in the Mountain West for coach David Carter. So, yes, there should be a definite and obvious sense of urgency in the program right now. But there is no real reason for panic. If there are some serious concerns right now they all should belong to the offense. The Pack has scored 64 or fewer points in each of its last four losses. The defense still has not allowed more than 78 points in any game this year. The Pack team we saw on Saturday, with Foster and McBride starting, DuSell getting just 12 minutes and Love not stepping on the floor, will struggle offensively on most nights against anybody. Whether Alford had no choice to make those lineup changes or was just simply trying to make a point, well, point well taken. We don't need to see that again. UP NEXT The Wolf Pack (8-5, 0-2) will host the Utah State Aggies (12-1, 2-0) on Tuesday at Lawlor Events Center. Utah State will be coming off a 67-66 win over San Diego State on Saturday in San Diego. Utah State has won six of the last nine games in the rivalry against Nevada, though the Wolf Pack beat the Aggies in Logan, Utah (77-63) last season.

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ARLINGTON, Texas -- The stakes were higher for Iowa State, and the outcome was the same as the first for the Cyclones in their second trip to the Big 12 championship game. And the 112-year wait for a conference title will go on. No. 16 Iowa State was playing for a spot in the College Football Playoff in a 45-19 loss to 12th-ranked Arizona State on Saturday, unlike four years ago when the Cyclones fell to Oklahoma . The Sun Devils (No. 15 CFP) are in the expanded 12-team format, possibly as the 12th seed with their conference's automatic bid. In the COVID-19-altered 2020 season, neither Iowa State nor the Sooners had a realistic path into the four-team tournament before Oklahoma's 27-21 victory. “I think those things sting for sure,” Iowa State coach Matt Campbell said. “You remember the losses way more than you remember the wins, and especially when you don’t play to what you’re capable of playing. Those things will haunt you and the reality is it’s still what drives you, what wakes you up every day to come in and be your absolute best.” Brock Purdy threw three interceptions in Iowa State’s 2020 loss, when he was still a year away from being Mr. Irrelevant as the last pick in the NFL draft and eventually helping San Francisco reach a Super Bowl. This time, any hope of a rally from a two-touchdown deficit at halftime ended with Abu Sama III's lost fumble five plays into the third quarter and Rocco Becht's interception not too long after that. Those turnovers resulted in touchdown catches for Xavier Guillory, putting the Sun Devils up 38-10 with 6 1/2 minutes left in the third quarter. Another Abu fumble on the next possession just made it worse, with Cam Skattebo taking a short pass 33 yards for a touchdown to go with his 170 yards and two TDs rushing. What would have been a fourth consecutive giveaway was overturned when a hit by Shamari Simmons forced a fumble from Becht but was overturned on review. Simmons was called for targeting instead as Becht stayed down and exited the game. He returned on Iowa State's next possession. “We’re a second-half team, and today it just wasn’t clicking on all cylinders for us,” said Becht, who was 21 of 35 for 214 yards with two touchdowns and the pick. “We had everything in our hands and we just needed to execute. At the end of the day, we just didn’t.” Iowa State (No. 16 CFP), which is 10-3 in the first 10-win season in the program's 133-year history, actually led 7-3 when Becht extended his streak of consecutive games with a touchdown pass to 17 with a 3-yarder to Carson Hansen. But the only quarterback in the nation with a pair of 1,000-yard receivers couldn't get much production out of either before the outcome was settled. When Arizona State extended its lead to 45-10 in the third quarter, Jayden Higgins had four catches for 58 yards and Jaylin Noel just two for 25. Higgins finished with 115 yards, while Noel scored a touchdown and had 64 yards. The Cyclones are still trying to win their first conference title since 1912, when they went 2-0 in the Missouri Valley Intercollegiate Athletic Association as part of a 6-2 season. That was a year after a 2-0-1 record won the Missouri Valley title in a 6-1-1 season. “The reality from our end is we had some opportunities late in the season to put ourselves probably in the best situation,” Campbell said. “Those are great lessons learned, and we’ll grow with it. Young football team that’s got the ability to grow forward for sure.” ___ 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-football

Syrian insurgents reach the capital's suburbs. Worried residents flee and stock up on supplies BEIRUT (AP) — Insurgents’ stunning march across Syria is gaining speed with news that they have reached the suburbs of the capital of Damascus. The government on Saturday was forced to deny rumors that President Bashar Assad had fled the country. The rebels’ moves around Damascus were reported by an opposition war monitor and a rebel commander. They came after the Syrian army withdrew from much of southern part of the country, leaving more areas, including two provincial capitals, under the control of opposition fighters. The advances in the past week were among the largest in recent years by opposition factions. The factions are by a group that has its origins in al-Qaida and is considered a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the United Nations. An archbishop's knock formally restores Notre Dame to life as winds howl and heads of state look on PARIS (AP) — France’s iconic Notre Dame Cathedral has formally reopened its doors for the first time since a devastating fire nearly destroyed the 861-year-old landmark in 2019. The five-year restoration is widely seen as a boost for French President Emmanuel Macron, who championed the ambitious timeline, and brings a welcome respite from his domestic political woes. World leaders, dignitaries, and worshippers gathered on Saturday evening for the celebrations under the cathedral's soaring arches. The celebration was attended by 1,500 dignitaries, including President-elect Donald Trump, Britain’s Prince William, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. For Catholics, Notre Dame’s rector said the cathedral “carries the enveloping presence of the Virgin Mary, a maternal and embracing presence.′′ Trump is welcomed by Macron to Paris with presidential pomp and joined by Zelenskyy for their talks PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron has welcomed Donald Trump to Paris with a full a dose of presidential pomp. And they held a hastically-arranged meeting with Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy on a day that's mixing pageantry with attention to pressing global problems. The president-elect's visit to France is part of a global a celebration of the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral five years after a devastating fire. Macron and other European leaders are trying to win Trump’s favor and persuade him to maintain support for Ukraine in its defense against Russia’s invasion. Trump isn't back in office but he's already pushing his agenda and negotiating with world leaders NEW YORK (AP) — Donald Trump is making threats, traveling abroad, and negotiating with world leaders. He has more than a month-and-a-half to go before he’s sworn in for a second term. But the president-elect is already moving aggressively to not only fill his Cabinet and outline policy goals, but also to try to achieve his priorities. In recent days, Trump has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico, two of the country’s largest trading partners. That led to emergency calls and a visit. And he's warned of “ALL HELL TO PAY” if Hamas doesn't release the hostages still being held captive in Gaza. South Korea's president avoids an impeachment attempt over short-lived martial law SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea’s embattled President Yoon Suk Yeol has avoided an opposition-led attempt to impeach him over his short-lived imposition of martial law. Most of Yoon's ruling party lawmakers boycotted a parliamentary vote Saturday to deny a two-thirds majority needed to suspend his presidential powers. The scrapping of the motion is expected to intensify protests calling for Yoon’s ouster and deepen political chaos in South Korea. A survey suggests a majority of South Koreans support the president’s impeachment. Yoon’s martial law declaration drew criticism from his own ruling conservative People Power Party. But the party also apparently fears losing the presidency to liberals. Days after gunman killed UnitedHealthcare's CEO, police push to ID him and FBI offers reward NEW YORK (AP) — Nearly four days after the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, police still do not know the gunman’s name or whereabouts or have a motive for the killing. But they have made some progress in their investigation into Wednesday's killing of the leader of the largest U.S. health insurer, including that the gunman likely left New York City on a bus soon after fleeing the scene. The also found that the gunman left something behind: a backpack that was discovered in Central Park. Police are working with the FBI, which on Friday night announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. UnitedHealthcare CEO's shooting opens a door for many to vent frustrations over insurance The fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare's CEO has opened the door for many people to vent their frustrations and anger over the insurance industry. The feelings of exasperation, anger, resentment, and helplessness toward insurers aren’t new. But the shooting and the headlines around it have unleashed a new wave of patients sharing such sentiments and personal stories of interactions with insurance companies. Conversations at dinner tables, office water coolers, social gatherings and on social media have pivoted to the topic. Many say they hope the new amplified voices can bring about change for companies often accused of valuing profits over people. 100-year-old Pearl Harbor survivor recalls confusion and chaos during Japanese bombing 83 years ago PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (AP) — The bombing of Pearl Harbor 83 years ago launched the United States into World War II. Two survivors are planning to return to the Hawaii military base on Saturday for a remembrance ceremony on the attack's anniversary. They are each over 100 years old. They will join active-duty troops, veterans and members of the public for a remembrance ceremony hosted by the Navy and the National Park Service. A third survivor was planning to join them but had to cancel due to health issues. The bombing killed more than 2,300 U.S. servicemen. An explosion destroys an apartment block in a Dutch city, killing at least 3 and injuring others THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — An explosion and fire has rocked a neighborhood in the Dutch city of The Hague, killing three people and injuring other people and destroying several apartments. The cause of the disaster is unclear. Emergency authorities said four people were rescued from the rubble and taken to the hospital. The mayor said rescuers were no longer looking for survivors but for eventual bodies, but could not specify how many people might still be unaccounted for. Residents of the northeastern neighborhood of Mariahoeve in The Hague heard a huge bang and screams before dawn. Dutch authorities have deployed a specialized urban search and rescue team to find victims. How 'Mufasa' rose with Aaron Pierre and Blue Ivy's voices along with new Lin-Manuel Miranda music SAN DIEGO (AP) — When Aaron Pierre was cast as Mufasa, the weight of following in the late James Earl Jones’ legendary footsteps was enough to rattle any actor. But instead of letting the pressure roar too loudly, he harnessed his nerves to breathe fresh life into his young lion character. Pierre found parallels between himself and his character while filming his leading role in “Mufasa: The Lion King,” which opens in theaters Dec. 20. He took the reigns as the new voice of Mufasa after Jones played the iconic King Mufasa in both the 1994 and 2019 versions of Disney’s “The Lion King.” The prequel offers a fresh exploration into Mufasa’s origin story.

Etanabene Benedict, a member of the Labour Party (LP) caucus in the House of Representatives, has revealed that many of his colleagues are considering defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This comes after four members of the LP in the lower legislative chamber joined the APC on Thursday, citing an internal crisis within the Party as the reason for their defection. Benedict, who represents the Okpe/Sapele/Uvwie federal constituency of Delta, stated that the legislators defected to the APC as a strategy ahead of the 2027 general election. “Nobody believes that if you are elected to office, there is a time limit, and when that time comes, if the people want you again, you’re reelected; if they don’t want you, you go,” he said. According to Benedict, the lawmakers were not confident of winning reelection in 2027 under the LP platform. READ ALSO: APC Gains Four New Members As Labour Party Lawmakers Defect “It is about 2027. The trend of Edo and Ondo is frightening to them, and they do not believe that they are strategically positioned to seek reelection under the umbrella of the Labour Party. That is the main reason. “There are still many others in the Labour Party that are thinking along that line too. So, if it happens tomorrow, I won’t be surprised,” he explained. Benedict also dismissed the lawmakers’ claims of an internal crisis in the LP, saying it was an excuse to justify their exit from the party. The Labour Party has expressed discontent over the defections, saying it would take legal action against the lawmakers.U.S. Rep. Jared Golden of Maine is aiming to reduce political polarization by convening a group of bipartisan lawmakers to examine current electoral methods and recommend changes. This week, Golden, a Democrat, introduced a resolution with another Democratic representative, Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington, to convene this 14-member select committee to assess the effectiveness of the U.S. electoral system and report possible reforms back to Congress and the president. “Our goal with this bill is to kick-start a conversation about what can be done to improve our electoral process,” Golden wrote in a statement to Maine Morning Star. “Conversations like this and questions like the ones we’re posing are most likely to gain traction after an election — as you can see by all the very public soul-searching and introspection that’s played out in the media every day since November 6. I’m heartened by the interest this bill has received both in D.C. and back home, and hopeful that some good will come out of it.” It quickly became clear to Gluesenkamp Perez upon arriving in Congress that structural reforms were needed to incentivize nonpartisan collaboration “to deliver for our communities priorities, not just a political agenda,” she wrote to the Maine Morning Star. “These structural problems won’t be solved with inside-the-box thinking or by defending the status quo.” Among the possible reforms listed in the resolution are expanding the size of the U.S. House, forming independent redistricting commissions and replacing the winner-take-all electoral system with one that includes multi-member districts with proportional representation. “Fixing our laws to make government more representative doesn’t just sound great on paper: states like Maine have already proven it works,” Golden wrote in a statement when announcing the legislation. Golden’s spokesperson Mario Moretto said Maine’s semi-open primaries, which began this past spring , are one example Golden believes to be a successful reform. Maine is also one of two states that does not use the winner-take-all electoral system. Instead, Maine splits its electoral votes, with two awarded to the candidate who wins the overall popular vote and then each congressional district awards one to the candidate who secured the most votes in that district. While Democratic nominee Kamala Harris won Maine’s statewide vote on Nov. 5, its northernmost region, the 2nd Congressional District, went for President-Elect Donald Trump . That same district also voted to reelect Golden, results that were also born out in 2016 and 2020 when Trump ran for president. While both Democrats, Golden and Gluesenkamp Perez are considered moderates who have consistently proved victorious in Trump country. The 3rd Congressional District in southwest Washington, which Gluesenkamp Perez represents, also went for Trump this year, as it did the last two times he ran. When first elected in 2022, the Democratic congresswoman flipped a congressional seat that was held by Republicans for more than a decade. In the lead up to Nov. 5, both representatives declined to tell their constituents who they were voting for for president. Golden said his refusal to endorse was because he was running to represent all people in his district, regardless of who they pick for president. Meanwhile, the Republicans who unsuccessfully challenged Golden and Gluesenkamp Perez in their reelection bids had been endorsed by Trump . The realpolitik of Golden and Gluesenkamp Perez’s candidacies offer a contrast to the growing hyper-partisanship across the nation. When asked about any lessons their candidacies provide for bucking partisanship and polarization, Moretto said Golden believes place-based politics are an antidote to both. “Maine’s 2nd Congressional District is a special place not because it is superior to other places, but because it’s different,” Golden wrote in a blog post in July. “Our communities have more in common with each other than with places in other parts of the country, but even within our vast district, towns and cities have unique identities that are worth honoring. For a member of Congress, place-based politics is about fighting for, and protecting, the things that make your district special.” However, Golden added that he is not saying political parties don’t matter. “I’m a Democrat because I believe in the power and necessity of unions, in civil rights and in equality,” he wrote. “Place-based politics is about keeping an eye on what makes our places special, the way of life created and sustained within them, and fighting to honor them regardless of whatever partisan loyalties or affiliation you may bear.” Gluesenkamp Perez wrote to Maine Morning Star that in communities like hers, “we don’t etch an R or a D on our gravestone.” Rather, she wrote, “90% of us agree on 90% of the issues, especially local priorities that affect us most on a daily basis. Stronger, more direct representation has the power to bridge political divides and ensure more lawmakers remain accountable to their communities.” The representatives also said they proposed a bipartisan committee, as opposed to legislation, to bring both parties together to identify solutions. “As Rep. Golden has said before, no one party has a monopoly on good ideas,” Moretto said. Gluesenkamp Perez similarly explained, “Rather than D.C. dictating that it already knows the answers — a select committee will more effectively hear from voices reflective of America, weigh the benefits of different approaches, and establish a bipartisan way forward, which is the only way forward.” More than 170 political scientists agree that forming a bipartisan committee is the right path forward. They wrote a letter of support for the resolution to members of the House, calling the U.S. electoral system outdated and one that promotes an “us” versus “them” approach to politics. “Changing how we elect our representatives can promote cooperation, temper polarization, and generate more consensus-building in policymaking,” the political scientists wrote. Citing America’s long history of electoral system reform — such as the U.S. House regularly expanding its size earlier in its history and Progressive Era changes that remain, such as primary elections — they added, “Through thoughtful, bipartisan study, this resolution would embrace America’s tradition of reform.” This article was first published by the Maine Morning Star , part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu on Saturday expressed its Government’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s ongoing anti-corruption initiatives as needed during a meeting with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat. He stated that the US is prepared to provide financial and technical assistance to strengthen Sri Lanka’s security and economy. He also emphasised the US Government’s willingness to offer technical expertise to help recover funds that were illegally taken out of the country, as part of Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption program. The discussion highlighted the US Government’s appreciation for the new administration’s prioritisation of key political, economic, and social challenges. Lu reaffirmed US support for safeguarding Sri Lanka’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. President Dissanayake highlighted that Sri Lanka’s political culture significantly influences corruption and waste. He emphasised that efforts are underway to reduce these issues by fostering a new and improved political culture. The President also spoke about initiatives to uplift rural living standards through improvements to the rural economy and efforts to establish a modern civil service by enhancing the quality of public services. The meeting was attended by Labour Minister and Economic Development Deputy Minister Anil Jayantha Fernando, Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Additional Secretary to the President Roshan Gamage, US Ambassador Julie Chung, USAID Deputy Assistant Administrator for Asia Anjali Kaur, US Department of Treasury Deputy Assistant Secretary for Asia and the Pacific Robert Kaproth, USAID Mission Director Gabriel Grau, and Political and Economic Affairs Counsellor Shawn Gray, among others.Income investors are a lucky bunch! The Australian share market is one of the most generous in the world with plenty of ASX dividend shares offering attractive yields. But which dividend shares could be top options when the market reopens next week? Let's look at three that analysts have recently named as buys: ( ) The first ASX dividend share that analysts have given the thumbs up to is Dexus Convenience Retail REIT. It is a property company that owns a portfolio of service station and convenience retail assets located across the country. It highlights that its 100 properties are leased to high-quality tenants on attractive, long-term leases (WALE of 8.8 years). Management also notes that it has a significant growth opportunity through contracted annual rent increases in all leases and a targeted acquisition strategy. Morgans is positive on the company and expects some big dividends in the near future. The broker has pencilled in dividends per share of 20.6 cents in FY 2025 and then 21.5 cents per share in FY 2026. Based on its current share price of $2.93, this implies of 7% and 7.3%, respectively. It has an add rating and $3.25 price target on its shares. ( ) The team at Bell Potter thinks that this alternative investment management company could be an ASX dividend share to buy. It believes that Regal Partners' shares are being undervalued by the market at present, especially given its strong investment performance. The broker recently put a buy rating and $4.85 price target on them. As well as plenty of upside, Bell Potter is forecasting some good dividend yields in the near term. It expects fully franked dividends per share of 16.3 cents in FY 2024 and then 18.1 cents in FY 2025. Based on its current share price of $4.18, this represents dividend yields of 3.9% and 4.3%, respectively. ( ) Finally, Bell Potter also thinks that Universal Store could be an ASX dividend share to buy next week. It is the youth fashion retailer behind the Universal Store, Perfect Stranger, and Thrills brands. The broker has been pleased with the company's performance and remains positive on its outlook. This is due to "the store roll-out & brand growth strategy, margin expansion via private label product penetration (currently ~46%) and strong earnings trajectory." Bell Potter has a buy rating and $8.85 price target on its shares. As for income, it is forecasting fully franked dividends per share of 31.4 cents in FY 2025 and then 36.8 cents in FY 2026. Based on the current Universal Store share price of $7.44, this will mean yields of 4.2% and 5%, respectively.