80 jili The Group General Manager, Continental Hotels, Karl Hala and General Manager, Lagos Continental, Christoph Schleissing, recently unveiled projects already embarked on at the Lagos and Abuja hotels aimed at leaving enduring legacies and memories with guests and tourists, writes Charles Ajunwa As I walked into the Lagos Continental Hotel that Morning after the usually detailed security checks through a smaller door as maintenance work was ongoing at the main entrance, guests and tourists were already checking in and out seamlessly with their luggage well arranged on the ground floor lobby. Within and outside the imposing structure on Abayomi Street, Victoria Island, there was this aura of fecundity in the air. The Group General Manager, Continental Hotels, Karl Hala, General Manager, Lagos Continental, Christoph Schleissing and other senior staff by 11 a.m. prompt were on the third-floor venue of the meeting to welcome us. As the lift opened, we were warmly received with pleasantries exchanged before breakfast was served. Hala, who has lived in Nigeria for 16 years with his family, hit the ground running by unveiling the reason for the meeting. According to him, Lagos Continental Hotel and Abuja Continental both formerly Intercontinental and Sheraton respectively, epitomise the luxury and lifestyle hospitality in Nigeria. “Together we have 947 elegantly big-sized rooms and suites and they do offer you unparalleled comfort. You know when you come somewhere, you have a feeling, like you just mentioned, in Asmara, when you feel, ah, I have arrived! “That is Continental. So what they offer is this unique experience that reflects this rich culture and diversity of Nigeria. What else we have and which is extremely iconic are our convention, media and banquet facilities. Both hotels have 5,000 square metres of meeting space, and can accommodate up to 3,500 delegates. Important to note, both are top state-of-the-art, both are pillarless, both have been refurbished recently, both are the centre for best conferencing in Nigeria, whether it’s the government enhancement delegation conference, whether it’s corporate gatherings, weddings or board meetings. So we provide all of that. It’s flexible, versatile and it’s covered by the best teams in the country. “To further support this, we just opened the Ladi Kwali Sports Village in Abuja. And that is a place which features sports facilities from tennis courts, volleyball, squash and table tennis. And a brand new gym which just opened last month (November).together with the gym in Lagos, which will enhance both of them, absolute top of fitness anything you wish within the technology. “So this Ladi Kwali building the sports facilities we added two paddle and two pickleball courts. So, when I was first told paddle built I said of course. So I went back and googled paddle. Paddle is the fastest growing sport in Africa and in Europe. But it has existed since the 60s in the US. “So are pickles. Now you can see it coming all over. So we have that in our premises in Abuja. So that serves as a hub for team-bonding and the togetherness and brainstorming for smaller groups, bigger groups. You want to have your visions for the next three years to come. “You work this and you can build in addition fun exercises. You can have this creativity and fun together. But you do the brainstorming sessions. You come up and challenge your mindset by being fit. “So it’s physical health and health creates future success for your team and for your company. That really has fostered teamwork and collaboration amongst all bodies. Whether it’s the big companies, whether it’s Oriflame or the MVCs or governmental bodies or the UNs, whoever it is, this is the way forward. And we are triggering this success through and through this new Ladi Kwali Village. And then we have a very impressive selection of culinary options in both hotels across 12 restaurants and bars. “We offer the finest Nigerian and international kitchen. And now the challenge. Michelin star. Michelin star is the pinnacle of acknowledgement being the best in the restaurant business. Do you know how many Michelin star restaurants there are in Africa? All over the world, they are in their thousands, but not in Africa. All over the world they are. In their thousands, but not in Africa. So I looked around and there are between LA, London and Dubai eight Nigerian restaurants. And one of them got a Michelin star. It’s Adejoke Bakare, the first black lady in the UK to be awarded. The restaurant is called Chisuru. Challenge through the media, the Mishla guide. Africa, we are here. If you take the story, this is an interesting ending, it has to do with Yam, yeah? So the ancient lore of the humble Nigerian Yam in all different variations. And we have it all over. We created. Now, if we can have success in LA, in Dubai, and in London, therefore, why not here. Shall we take it up together? We help, we push.’ Talking about the festive season which he described as “festive wonderland, festive continental,” adding, “We are to celebrate. It’s a very joyous season. And I must say, I’ve come to Nigeria for the last 16 years, and it has become very joyous. Decorations are there, events are there, you feel more mellow. Hala, who acknowledged the two hotels in Abuja and Lagos are finishing on a strong note economically in the last five months, said Abuja of course celebrates as well from gingerbread houses to amazing landscaping. “So when you come into Abuja because of the 14 hectares, it is a festive Christmas land you’re going to be overwhelmed with. When you come through, you will celebrate between the Christmas Eve’s because here one celebrates on the 25th at lunch, correct? So where we come from, 24th in the evening, so we celebrate both of those. “So they have wine pairings in the evenings, lavish Christmas, Santa lunches on the 25th, and then get ready for the crossovers on the 31st, where it will be between the restaurants and the pool bar. And the swimming pool has just been reopened. Brand new dialing, decking, whatsoever. Again, another brand new feature for us in Abuja. “And then they have very exclusive staycation packages. Makes families welcome to bring their family along and enjoy the sports village, the culinaries, the swimming pool, or just a walk, I want to say in the park, but it is like a park actually. We have a coconut garden, we have a lot of greens and all this around. This is the difference between Abuja and Lagos, the tranquility of Abuja. Greens, the hills, mountains around. It’s an amazing picture. I love both. “We also have Santa surprises for the children, workshops, cooking, everything around Abuja will offer. So similar to Lagos Abuja, just come, see and enjoy and relax. It’s the place to be for families this Christmas and then the crossover of course will be sensational. Not just fireworks, the fireworks will be on a culinary level with the entertainers, the singing, the dancing. And then we put a bit of light into the air, crossover. “For the next event, March, April, before Easter, we want to talk a little bit about academies, development, and how to bring the best skill set out of our teams. Don’t forget, indirectly and directly with Continental Hotels, we have over 1,700 colleagues. So we do have a platform we want to work with and we want to develop. Because the striving talent in Nigeria is always exciting. There is an eagerness to learn, to see, to perform. Now we want to make sure we realise it to the best with all the platforms which we can offer.It means the engagement with our employees comes to the best and up to the strengthening of the leadership. But we’ll discuss this in much more detail with much more exciting news like our own Academy just before Easter. “Yes, come and see us, come and enjoy, because with Continental Hotels, we are moving forward. We are staying agile. We will continue to innovate responsibly. And we will maintain and continue a relentless focus delivering memorable, bespoke experiences that define the Continental experience of luxury for the business.” The General Manager, Lagos Continental Hotel, Schleissing who arrived Lagos in August, from Kazakhstan in Central Asia, threw more light on the activities lined up for the festive period. “We are very much on the festive season and I think you all arrived to the lobby. You saw that we made a very nice, very festive decoration in the lobby. The goal was really to build a winter wonderland. We have a real Christmas boutique. We sell specialties all over the world. Some of them, we brought them directly from Germany or Italy or the UK. And many of them, we produce in-house. So it’s real, I think it’s a must to pass by the Boutique Alhambra. On the other hand, we go on.” On what he finds interesting about Nigeria, he said “First, is the climate and secondly, for me, most important are the people. When I look here at our people and our team, this genuine hospitality, very welcoming, we all speak the same language, makes my task to deliver exceptional hospitality, you know, easier.”December 30 - Anze Kopitar scored a pair of third-period goals, Adrian Kempe added a goal and an assist, and the Los Angeles Kings rallied for a 5-4 victory over the visiting Philadelphia Flyers on Sunday to increase their home winning streak to seven games. Kevin Fiala and Warren Foegele added goals and David Rittich made 17 saves for the Kings, who improved to 10-2-2 dating to Nov. 27, with a pair of victories over the Flyers in the stretch. Kopitar moved into a tie with Dave Taylor for third place on the Kings' all-time goals-scored list with 431 in 19 seasons. Scott Laughton and Matvei Michkov each scored a goal with an assist for the Flyers, while Tyson Foerster and Joel Farabee also had goals. Aleksei Kolosov made 15 saves for Philadelphia, which lost for the fifth time in its past seven games (2-5-0). With the Kings trailing 4-3 entering the third period, Kopitar scored after a Kolosov save on a shot from Quinton Byfield to tie the score at 6:44. Kopitar scored the game-winner just over two minutes later when he tipped in a Kempe shot after he had just won a faceoff in the Philadelphia zone. The Kings took a 1-0 lead just over five minutes into the game when Fiala scored his 14th of the season from the left circle on a shot that went through the legs of Laughton. The Flyers received their first of two first-period goals from Foerster at 8:17 period in a four-on-four situation. Laughton gave Philadelphia a 2-1 lead less than six minutes later. The Kings tied it 2-2 at 16:54 of the opening period when Kempe scored his 17th of the season. Philadelphia used a 2:39 stretch of the second period to score a pair of goals and take a 4-2 lead. Michkov redirected the puck off Rittich's left skate at 11:03 of the period to give the Flyers the lead and Farabee scored on a wrist shot at 13:42. The Kings got a goal back when Foegele scored his 11th of the season and fourth over the past seven games at 15:04 of the second period to get Los Angeles within 4-3. --Field Level Media Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab

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Published 5:39 pm Saturday, November 30, 2024 By Data Skrive Currently, the New Orleans Pelicans (4-16) have six players on the injury report, including Brandon Ingram, in their matchup against the New York Knicks (11-8) at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, December 1 at 6:00 PM ET. The Knicks have two players on the injury report. Watch the NBA, other live sports and more on Fubo. What is Fubo? Fubo is a streaming service that gives you access to your favorite live sports and shows on demand. Use our link to sign up for a free trial. Last time out, the Knicks won on Friday 99-98 against the Hornets. Jalen Brunson totaled 31 points, six rebounds and six assists for the Knicks. The Pelicans dropped their most recent matchup 120-109 against the Grizzlies on Friday. CJ McCollum’s team-leading 30 points paced the Pelicans in the loss. Sign up for NBA League Pass to get live and on-demand access to NBA games. Get tickets for any NBA game this season at StubHub. Catch NBA action all season long on Fubo. Not all offers available in all states, please visit BetMGM for the latest promotions for your area. Must be 21+ to gamble, please wager responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, contact 1-800-GAMBLER .

Programming cells: Revolutionizing genetic circuits with cutting-edge RNA tools December 20, 2024 Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) Researchers have developed a new technology that improves the precision and integration density of synthetic genetic circuits. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIN Email Professor Jongmin Kim's research team at POSTECH developed a new technology that improves the precision and integration density of synthetic genetic circuits. The research team led by Professor Jongmin Kim from the Department of Life Sciences at POSTECH, along with graduate students Hyunseop Goh and Seungdo Choi, has successfully developed the 'Synthetic Translational Coupling Element (SynTCE),' significantly enhancing the precision and integration density of genetic circuits in synthetic biology. This research was recently published in 'Nucleic Acids Research' , an international molecular biology and biochemistry journal. 'Synthetic biology' is a research field that assigns new functions to organisms by leveraging natural and synthetic genetic regulatory tools. Organisms engineered through synthetic biology can be applied in various fields, including disease treatment, plastic-degrading microorganisms, and biofuel production. In particular, the 'polycistronic operon' system, where multiple genes are expressed in coordination to form complexes and perform specific functions, is crucial in maximizing encoding efficiency with limited resources. However, to precisely design sophisticated genetic circuits, interference between biological parts must be minimized, and encoding density must be increased for efficient gene circuit integration. Synthetic RNA-based translation regulatory parts often encountered limitations in regulating multiple genes and achieving high precision in circuit functionality due to interferences in the protein translation process. To address this issue, Professor Kim's team focused on 'translational coupling', a natural gene regulation mechanism commonly found in operons that regulate multiple genes, where the translation of upstream genes influences the translation efficiency of downstream genes. Through this research, the team designed 'SynTCE,' which mimics this mechanism, and successfully integrated it with synthetic biological RNA devices to create more efficient genetic circuits. By integrating SynTCE architecture in an RNA computing system that the team previously reported, the integration density of genetic circuits is greatly enhanced by using SynTCE to accurately transmit input signals to downstream genes, enabling systems with unprecedented capability of simultaneous control for multiple inputs and outputs in a single RNA molecule. Notably, by precisely controlling protein N-terminals and eliminating interference in protein translation, SynTCE can be applied in 'biological containment ' technology to selectively eliminate targeted cells and direct proteins to programmed cellular locations. This technology is expected to advance precise functional control and facilitate desired biological operations in cells. Professor Jongmin Kim stated, "This research marks significant progress in enabling sophisticated and accurate genetic circuit design," expressing hope that "this new design will be applied in various fields such as customized cell therapeutics, microorganisms for bioremediation, and biofuel production." This research was supported by various organizations including the Institute of Planning and Evaluation for Technology in Food, Agriculture and Forestry, the National Research Foundation of Korea, Gyeongsangbuk-do and Pohang City's synthetic biology funding, Korea Health Industry Development Institute's Korea Health Technology R&D Project, Gyeongbuk Techno Park support project, Ministry of Education's 4th BK21 support project, Korea Basic Science Institute project, and Leaders In Industry-University Cooperation 3.0 (LINC 3.0). Story Source: Materials provided by Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) . Note: Content may be edited for style and length. Journal Reference : Cite This Page :Is the NORAD Santa tracker safe from a government shutdown?

Trump says he can't guarantee tariffs won't raise prices, won't rule out revenge prosecutions

Donald Trump asks Supreme Court to hold off TikTok ban so he can 'negotiate a resolution' By MELISSA KOENIG FOR DAILYMAIL.COM Published: 23:14, 27 December 2024 | Updated: 23:51, 27 December 2024 e-mail 25 View comments President-Elect Donald Trump has made a last minute plea to get the United States Supreme Court to halt implementation of a nationwide TikTok ban. Congress had passed a law earlier this year banning the popular video-sharing app as of January 19 if it is not sold by its Chinese parent company by then. Executives at the platform then made an emergency plea to the Supreme Court earlier this month to block the federal law, and on Friday Trump's legal team filed its own request to delay the implementation of the law. 'President Trump takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute,' D. John Sauer, Trump's lawyer whom he picked for US solicitor general wrote in the filing, according to NBC News. 'Instead, he respectfully requests that the Court consider staying the Act's deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025 while it considers the merits of this case, thus permitting President Trump's incoming administration the opportunity to pursue a political resolution of the questions at issue in this case.' 'President Trump alone possesses the consummate deal-making expertise, the electoral mandate and the political will to negotiate a resolution to save the platform while addressing the national security concerns expressed by the government - concerns which President Trump himself has acknowledged,' Sauer continued. 'In light of these interests - including most importantly, his overarching responsibility for the United States' national security and foreign policy - President Trump opposes banning TikTok in the United States at this juncture and seeks the ability to resolve issues at hand through political means once he takes office.' Trump has previously voiced his opposition to the Protecting Americans from Controlled Applications App, which President Joe Biden signed into law in April, and vowed on the campaign trail to 'save TikTok.' He even met with TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew earlier this month to discuss the issue, after proclaiming, 'I have a warm spot in my heart for TikTok because I won youth by 34 points.' President-elect Donald Trump has has made a last minute plea to get the United States Supreme Court to halt implementation of a nationwide TikTok ban Congress passed a resolution earlier this year banning the popular video-sharing app as of January 19 if it is not sold by its Chinese parent company by then 'There are those who say TikTok had something to do with that.' Friday's filing even touted the future president as 'one of the most powerful, prolific and influential users of social media in history. 'Indeed, President Trump's first term was highlighted by a series of policy triumphs achieved through historic deals, and he has a great prospect of success in this latest national security and foreign policy endeavor,' it says. Executives at TikTok have also pointed at Trump's sympathies in their own legal arguments, suggesting the trajectory may change when he takes office, The Hill reports. But the Supreme Court agreed to hear arguments both from the government and the platform at an expedited schedule, starting on January 10. It would then only have nine days after oral arguments for them to issue an opinion or indefinitely block the Protecting Americans from Controlled Applications App - despite Trump not taking office until January 20 - one day after the platform must be divested from its parent company, ByteDance, or be banned in the United States. In the meantime, the company seeks to argue that such a law violates the First Amendment to the Constitution. Yet the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit decided to uphold the law, concluding that the government's national security justifications for banning the app - including concerns that the Chinese government could access data about American users and manipulate content - were legitimate. The United States Supreme Court agreed to hear arguments both from the government and the platform at an expedited schedule, starting on January 10 Some wealthy Americans have since expressed an interest in buying TikTok's US business , including 'Shark Tank' star Kevin O ́Leary. Big tech companies could also afford to buy the platform, but would likely face intense scrutiny from antitrust regulators in both the US and China. Activision CEO Bobby Kotick - who helped broker the $69 billion sale of his company to Microsoft last year - may have the resources to buy the Chinese app and the technological know how in order to create a new algorithm for it. Kotick floated the idea of buying TikTok in March to numerous people at a dinner, the Wall Street Journal reported, with one of them being OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Beyond Altman's $2 billion net worth, he is an attractive partner in the bid to acquire TikTok because he could give the eventual US version of the app a head start in training its AI models. Yet even if an American company does buy the platform, the China's Commerce Ministry would have to approve ByteDance's divestiture from TikTok - which the Chinese government has strongly opposed. TikTok US Supreme Court Donald Trump Share or comment on this article: Donald Trump asks Supreme Court to hold off TikTok ban so he can 'negotiate a resolution' e-mail Add commentIntech Investment Management LLC reduced its holdings in shares of AutoNation, Inc. ( NYSE:AN – Free Report ) by 56.0% during the third quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 4,349 shares of the company’s stock after selling 5,531 shares during the period. Intech Investment Management LLC’s holdings in AutoNation were worth $778,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of AN. GAMMA Investing LLC boosted its holdings in AutoNation by 90.6% during the 2nd quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 202 shares of the company’s stock valued at $32,000 after acquiring an additional 96 shares during the period. Ashton Thomas Private Wealth LLC purchased a new stake in shares of AutoNation during the second quarter valued at approximately $37,000. Venturi Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of AutoNation by 403.6% in the third quarter. Venturi Wealth Management LLC now owns 282 shares of the company’s stock worth $50,000 after purchasing an additional 226 shares during the last quarter. Quarry LP increased its stake in shares of AutoNation by 498.5% in the second quarter. Quarry LP now owns 407 shares of the company’s stock worth $65,000 after buying an additional 339 shares during the period. Finally, Mather Group LLC. bought a new stake in AutoNation during the 2nd quarter valued at $103,000. 94.62% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Analyst Ratings Changes AN has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. Bank of America decreased their price objective on shares of AutoNation from $220.00 to $215.00 and set a “buy” rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, October 14th. Guggenheim reduced their price target on AutoNation from $190.00 to $189.00 and set a “buy” rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, November 21st. Stephens began coverage on AutoNation in a report on Thursday, September 12th. They issued an “overweight” rating and a $210.00 price objective for the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their target price on AutoNation from $190.00 to $180.00 and set a “neutral” rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, November 5th. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised AutoNation from an “equal weight” rating to an “overweight” rating and raised their price target for the stock from $145.00 to $200.00 in a research note on Wednesday, September 25th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the company’s stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus price target of $199.29. AutoNation Trading Down 0.2 % NYSE AN opened at $178.89 on Friday. The stock’s 50 day moving average is $168.02 and its 200 day moving average is $168.80. The company has a quick ratio of 0.20, a current ratio of 0.80 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.58. The firm has a market capitalization of $7.09 billion, a PE ratio of 10.34, a P/E/G ratio of 3.76 and a beta of 1.21. AutoNation, Inc. has a twelve month low of $133.01 and a twelve month high of $197.18. About AutoNation ( Free Report ) AutoNation, Inc, through its subsidiaries, operates as an automotive retailer in the United States. The company operates through three segments: Domestic, Import, and Premium Luxury. It offers a range of automotive products and services, including new and used vehicles; and parts and services, such as automotive repair and maintenance, and wholesale parts and collision services. Featured Articles Five stocks we like better than AutoNation Dividend Payout Ratio Calculator The Latest 13F Filings Are In: See Where Big Money Is Flowing What is the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) 3 Penny Stocks Ready to Break Out in 2025 How Investors Can Find the Best Cheap Dividend Stocks FMC, Mosaic, Nutrien: Top Agricultural Stocks With Big Potential Receive News & Ratings for AutoNation Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AutoNation and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .Trump says he can't guarantee tariffs won't raise prices, won't rule out revenge prosecutions

A MAJOR department store chain is set to close its doors in a busy shopping centre. TJ Hughes in the Antonine Shopping Centre in Glasgow has revealed it will be pulling down the shutters for the final time. 1 One TJ Hughes store is closing its doors (stock) Credit: Alamy The store has launched a closing down sale before shutting down for good. TJ Hughes, which was founded in 1912, stocks home appliances, clothes and even furniture. It is unknown why or when the brand's location in the North Lanarkshire leisure facility is closing. The shop in Cumbernauld which is closing first opened its doors in 2019. Read More in Money SHUTTERS DOWN Fashion chain owned by H&M launches closing down sale as seven shops to shut CHOC DEAL Shoppers have just days left to get £3.95 Quality Street tubs from supermarket A sign on the shops window reads: "Closing down sale." Locals took to Facebook to weigh in with their opinions after hearing the news . One said: "The shopping centre is getting ready to get knocked down." Another wrote: "One of many unfortunate stores to permantly close due to on-line shopping." Most read in Money GOLDEN FIND Scots dad stunned after finding 700-year-old coin worth £1500 in his garden LIGHTS OUT Beloved family-run retailer abruptly closes after 52 years on the high street RETAIL PAIN Scots retailer warns it's 'running out of cash' putting 1500 jobs at risk LAST ORDERS Full list of TV chefs that have shut down Michelin-hailed restaurants this year A third commented: "TJ Hughes has been struggling for a few years now." A Facebook user said: "Saw the signs a year ago. They blocked off 1/2 the shop. I always felt sorry for the staff as the shop is freezing. "Often saw them wearing outdoor clothes just to man the till." Why are retailers closing stores? Retailers have been feeling the squeeze since the pandemic, while shoppers are cutting back on spending due to the soaring cost of living crisis. High energy costs and a move to shopping online after the pandemic are also taking a toll, and many high street shops have struggled to keep going. The high street has seen a whole raft of closures over the past year, and more are coming. The number of jobs lost in British retail dropped last year, but 120,000 people still lost their employment, figures have suggested. The Golden Fry: A Beloved Scottish Chippy Hits the Market (1) Figures from the Centre for Retail Research revealed that 10,494 shops closed for the last time during 2023, and 119,405 jobs were lost in the sector. It was fewer shops than had been lost for several years, and a reduction from 151,641 jobs lost in 2022. Although there were some big-name losses from the high street, including Wilko, many large companies had already gone bust before 2022, the centre said, such as Topshop owner Arcadia, Jessops and Debenhams. "The cost-of-living crisis, inflation and increases in interest rates have led many consumers to tighten their belts, reducing retail spend," Prof Bamfield said. "Retailers themselves have suffered increasing energy and occupancy costs, staff shortages and falling demand that have made rebuilding profits after extensive store closures during the pandemic exceptionally difficult." Alongside Wilko, which employed around 12,000 people when it collapsed, 2023's biggest failures included Paperchase, Cath Kidston, Planet Organic and Tile Giant. The Centre for Retail Research said most stores were closed because companies were trying to reorganise and cut costs rather than the business failing. However, experts have warned there will likely be more failures this year as consumers keep their belts tight and borrowing costs soar for businesses. The Body Shop and Ted Baker are the biggest names to have already collapsed into administration this year. Read more on the Scottish Sun SNOW WAY Weather maps show heavy snow for Scotland in DAYS – with -2C New Year’s chill NO CRIME Orange Order slam cops after Celtic activist was cleared over 'sectarian rants' Retailers closing stores in 2024 RETAILERS have been hit by soaring inflation and a downturn in spending due to the cost of living crisis. High energy costs and a move to shopping online are also taking their toll. Some high street shops have closed due to businesses opening up in different locations such as larger retail parks. Shops may also close due to a number of other reasons, such as rising rents. We explain which retailers are closing in 2024: Argos - The brand announced plans to close 100 standalone UK branches last year as it looks to move away from the high street and focus on expanding its presence in supermarkets. B&Q - The chain has over 300 shops across the UK, with two stores closing this year due to leases not being renewed. It has plans to open more in 2024 too. Boots - The health and beauty chain announced that it would be closing 300 stores last July. Closures are ongoing and this will see the retailer's estate reduced from 2,200 to 1,900 shops. Clintons - Clintons mulled plans to close 38 shops in a bid to avoid insolvency late last year. We've listed the stores affected . Costa Coffee - The caffeine giant has around 2,000 sites nationwide, so chances are you'll have one near you. The chain has shut the doors to dozens of its sites recently. We've revealed which stores are due to close this year . Iceland - The supermarket has more than 900 stores but closed nearly two dozen sites in 2023, and more selected shops are due to shut . Lidl - The supermarket, which has 950 stores, is changing up shop locations, which has meant that some stores have to close . But the retailer is also looking to open 12 new supermarkets . M&S - M&S, which runs 405 stores across the country, has been closing a string of branches across the country in a blow for shoppers. It's not all bad news, though, because the chain also has big plans to open dozens of new shops . Trespass - The firm announced in July last year that it was closing six branches, but more are on the way . WHSmith - The retail giant, which runs over 1,100 stores, has shut eight stores since March 2023, but more are coming . Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk . Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and storiesWashington, Dec 30 (AP) President Joe Biden has scheduled a state funeral in Washington for former President Jimmy Carter on Jan 9. Biden also declared Jan 9 as a National Day of Mourning across the US Carter, the longest-lived former president, died Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia. He was 100. Also Read | New Year’s Eve Ball Drop 2024 Live Streaming From New York’s Times Square: Know Date, Timing and Where To Watch Live Telecast of Times Square Ball Drop Celebrations. Biden also ordered US flags to fly at half-staff for 30 days from Sunday. Guterres' remembrance focuses on Carter's contributions to peace Also Read | S Jaishankar To Visit Doha Today: External Affairs Minister Set To Embark on 3-Day Official Tour to Qatar, Will Hold Meet With PM Sheikh Mohammed. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday praised Carter for his significant contributions to international peace through the Camp David Accords, the SALT II Treaty and the Panama Canal treaties. “President Carter's commitment to international peace and human rights also found full expression after he left the presidency,” Guterres said in a statement. "He played a key role in conflict mediation, election monitoring, the promotion of democracy, and disease prevention and eradication. These and other efforts earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 and helped advance the work of the United Nations. “President Carter will be remembered for his solidarity with the vulnerable, his abiding grace, and his unrelenting faith in the common good and our common humanity,” Guterres said. Reflections from King Charles III King Charles III joined leaders from around the world in issuing their condolences and sharing their reflections on the former president. “It was with great sadness that I learned of the death of former President Carter," the king said in a public statement. “He was a committed public servant, and devoted his life to promoting peace and human rights. His dedication and humility served as an inspiration to many, and I remember with great fondness his visit to the United Kingdom in 1977." Biden remembers Carter for his decency President Joe Biden broke from his family vacation in the U.S. Virgin Islands to remember Carter, recalling his predecessor as a role model and friend. America and the world lost a “remarkable leader” with Carter's death, Biden said, adding that he had spoken to several of the former president's children and was working with them to formalize memorial arrangements in Washington. Speaking for roughly 10 minutes, Biden remembered Carter as a humanitarian and statesman, someone he couldn't imagine walking past a person in need without trying to help them. He represented “the most fundamental human values we can never let slip away,” Biden said. The president repeatedly praised Carter's “simple decency” and his values, saying some will see him as a man of honesty and humility from a bygone era. “I don't believe it's a bygone era. I see a man not only of our time, but for all times,” Biden said. “To know his core, you need to know he never stopped being a Sunday school teacher at that Baptist church in Plains, Georgia.” Egyptian president notes historic Camp David Accords Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi said on X that Carter's significant role in achieving the peace agreement between Egypt and Israel "will remain etched in the annals of history.” He went on to say Carter's “humanitarian work exemplifies a lofty standard of love, peace, and brotherhood.” Carter will be remembered as “one of the world's most prominent leaders in service to humanity,” el-Sissi said. Carter's relationship with his wife Rosalynn spanned a near-lifetime Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter had one of the great love stories and political partnerships in US presidential history. The former president sometimes called his wife, who died Nov. 19. 2023, “Rosie,” which is a good way to remember how her name actually is pronounced. It is “ROSE-uh-lyn,” not, repeat NOT, “RAHZ-uh-lyn.” They were married more than 77 years but their relationship went back even further. Jimmy's mother, “Miss Lillian,” delivered Eleanor Rosalynn Smith at the Smith home in Plains on Aug. 18, 1927. The nurse brought her eldest child back a few days later to visit, meaning the longest-married presidential couple met as preschooler and newborn. She became his trusted campaign aide and White House adviser, surprising Washington by sitting in on Cabinet meetings. Then they traveled the world together as co-founders of The Carter Center. Most of the nation saw the former president for the last time at Rosalynn Carter's funeral. Grandson Jason Carter says Plains kept his grandparents humble Jason Carter is now the chairman of The Carter Center's board of governors. He said his grandparents “never changed who they were” even after reaching the White House and becoming global humanitarians. He says their four years in Washington were just one period of putting their values into action and that the center his grandparents founded in Atlanta is a lasting “extension of their belief in human rights as a fundamental global force.” Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter traveled the world advocating for democracy and fighting disease, but Jason Carter said they weren't motivated by pity, or arrogance that a former American president had all the answers — they ventured to remote places because they could “recognize these people.” They too were from “a 600-person village” and understood that even the poorest people “have the power ... the ability ... the knowledge and the expertise to change their own community.” Pelosi says Carter's life was saintly' in devotion to peace Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is remembering Carter as a man steeped “in devotion to public service and peace.” The California Democrat said in a statement Sunday that Carter was committed to “honoring the spark of divinity within every person,” something she said manifested in “teaching Sunday school in his beloved Marantha Baptist Church, brokering the landmark Camp David Accords to pave the way to peace or building homes with Habitat for Humanity.” Pelosi also said Carter led “perhaps the most impactful post-presidency in history.” Historical praise from the United Kingdom British Prime Minister Keir Starmer noted in a post on X the special contribution Carter made by brokering the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt and through his work with the Carter Center. “Motivated by his strong faith and values, President Carter redefined the post-presidency with a remarkable commitment to social justice and human rights at home and abroad,” Starmer said. Commemoration in New York City To commemorate Carter's death, officials with the Empire State Building said in a post on social media that the iconic New York City landmark would be lit in red, white and blue on Sunday night, “to honor the life and legacy” of the late former president. The Obamas recall Carter's Sunday services In a statement issued Sunday, former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama said Carter's beloved Maranatha Baptist Church “will be a little quieter on Sunday,s” but added that the late former president “will never be far away -- buried alongside Rosalynn next to a willow tree down the road, his memory calling all of us to heed our better angels.” Noting the “hundreds of tourists from around the world crammed into the pews” to see the former president teach Sunday school, as he did “for most of his adult life,” the Obamas listed Carter's accomplishments as president. But they made special note of the Sunday school lessons, saying they were catalysts for people making a pilgrimage to the church. “Many people in that church on Sunday morning were there, at least in part, because of something more fundamental: President Carter's decency.” (AP) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)

BRITS are being warned to take note of a firework rule ahead of New Years Eve - as cops warn you could face six months behind bars for breaches. As the festive period wraps up, UK households are being warned that using fireworks outside of designated times, among other things, could have devastating consequences. The designated times for setting off fireworks are not before 7am or after midnight. If you do, you could be breaching serious antisocial behaviour laws. And when buying fireworks, including sparklers, you can only do so from registered sellers for private use on specific dates. These are the 15 October to 10 November, the 26 to 31 December and three days before Diwali and Chinese New Year. At other times you can only buy fireworks from licensed shops. If you use or sell fireworks illegally, you could be fined an unlimited amount and put behind bars for up to a whopping six months. The Met Police have warned the public about varying firework categories. These include category one, which are dubbed "throwdown fireworks" like firecrackers and bangers. Category two and three are retail "adult fireworks". And category four are professional-grade fireworks from speciality suppliers. Guidance reads: "Anyone over 18 can buy, carry or use category one, two and three fireworks. "Anyone over 16 can only buy, carry or use category one fireworks. "Anyone over 12 can buy Christmas crackers. Only licensed professionals can buy, carry and use category 4 fireworks. "Unless part of an organised event by licensed professionals, fireworks cannot be used on the street or in a public place." The stern warnings come after the chaotic Bonfire Night in November that led to a number of arrests relating to fireworks. In one example, a hooded man with a homemade rocket launcher shot fireworks at people in Birmingham. Three teenage boys aged 17, 18, and 19 were arrested in Birmingham over the Bonfire Night chaos. And in Edinburgh, Manchester and Glasgow too, yobs hurled fireworks at riot cops on Guy Fawkes night. In Manchester , shocking footage showed louts making barricades from mattresses and pallets in clashes with police. Youths in the city started an illegal bonfire with waste and a motorbike, torched a car and hurled fireworks at emergency services. Three teen males, aged between 16 and 18, were arrested on suspicion of causing violent disorder. One bizarre scene from Edinburgh showed a yob putting a firework in his mouth .

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