As one faces the intimidating prospect of a criminal defense case hearing in Louisiana, it becomes imperative to understand the intricacies of this legal process. The significance of securing a seasoned attorney, developing a robust understanding of Louisiana’s unique legal nuances, and acquiring skills to manage the inevitable courtroom anxiety can’t be overstated. Yet, these represent only a fraction of the preparatory steps necessary for such a scenario. What else might we need to contemplate, and how could these elements influence the outcome of your case? The answers to these questions hold the potential to alter the trajectory of your legal journey. The labyrinth of Louisiana’s criminal law, steeped in both civil and common law traditions, is a unique fusion that demands your understanding for a robust defense. Familiarizing yourself with Louisiana statutes, legal terminology, and the criminal procedure is paramount. Firstly, acknowledging the different trial phases is essential in comprehending the trajectory of your case. From the initial arraignment to potential appeals, each phase offers its unique challenges and defense strategies. Additionally, understanding evidence rules can greatly impact your defense. These rules govern what evidence is admissible in court, shaping the narrative that the jury will hear. Speaking of the jury, the jury selection process in Louisiana is an intricate dance of legal strategy. The composition of your jury can considerably influence the outcome of your case. Thus, understanding the selection process is integral to your defense. Furthermore, knowing the sentencing guidelines that apply to your case provides a sobering perspective on potential outcomes. These guidelines, based on Louisiana statutes, outline the potential penalties if convicted. How does one go about choosing a competent legal representative in a criminal defense case? The process of choosing representation requires careful thought and due diligence. It’s not just about hiring a lawyer; it’s about hiring the right lawyer. Attorney qualifications should be at the forefront of your considerations. In Louisiana, a trusted criminal defense attorney in Louisiana will have an extensive understanding of state and federal laws, courtroom procedures, plea bargain strategies, and will have expertise in examining legal evidence. They will also have a well-established reputation for ethical and professional conduct. Experience is another essential factor. A seasoned attorney will have a proven track record in managing cases similar to yours. They should be able to navigate the complexities of the legal system, minimize penalties, or possibly secure a case dismissal. Preparation is key when it comes to gathering relevant case documents for a criminal defense case. This process, often referred to as evidence collection, is an essential component of building a compelling defense strategy. The documents may include police reports, witness statements, photographic evidence, and any other records that may have a bearing on the case. The task of evidence collection involves not only obtaining these documents but also understanding their significance in the context of the case. This requires a keen eye for detail, as seemingly minor elements within these documents could potentially have a major impact on the outcome of the case. After collecting the necessary documents, it’s equally important to organize them effectively. Document organization enables easy access to information when needed, facilitating a streamlined and efficient defense. This could mean categorizing documents based on their type, date, or relevance to particular aspects of the case. When heading into a criminal defense case, your personal testimony can make a substantial difference. The process of testimony preparation is important to guarantee that your narrative is coherent, persuasive, and credible. It is not merely about recounting the events, but rather about presenting them in a manner that strengthens your defense and bolsters your position in the eyes of the court. Testimony preparation begins with a thorough review of the facts and circumstances surrounding the case. A careful analysis of the evidence at hand can help identify key points that need to be emphasized in your testimony. Rehearsal is another essential aspect of preparation. Discussing your testimony with your attorney, and practicing it repeatedly, can help eliminate any inconsistencies or ambiguities. Witness credibility, another important factor, can be greatly influenced by your demeanor, composure, and the consistency of your statements. It is necessary to answer all questions honestly, directly, and succinctly. Remember, every word you utter can either reinforce or undermine your credibility. Therefore, while preparing your testimony, focus on truthfulness, clarity, and consistency to enhance your credibility and increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Aside from preparing a robust testimony, another vital consideration in a criminal defense case is plea bargaining. This process, often overlooked, constitutes a significant portion of the legal landscape in Louisiana. Plea bargaining, fundamentally, is a negotiation between the defense and prosecution, where the accused agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge, in exchange for a more lenient sentence or the dismissal of other charges. Implementing effective plea negotiation strategies is paramount, as it directly impacts the outcome of the case. It requires a keen understanding of the legal framework, the specifics of the case, and the potential implications of different plea options. The defense attorney needs to critically evaluate the evidence, assess the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case, and use this information to negotiate the best possible deal. The benefits of plea deals are manifold. They can expedite the legal process, reduce the uncertainty associated with jury trials, and, most importantly, minimize the potential penalties. However, plea bargaining should never be taken lightly. It requires careful deliberation and strategic planning, as its outcome can profoundly impact an individual’s life and future. How does one navigate the often turbulent waters of pre-trial publicity in a criminal defense case? The answer lies in a careful, strategic approach that considers the wide-reaching effects of media influence, public perception, and social media. Managing pre-trial publicity involves a well-balanced defense strategy. Controlling case visibility and information leaks is paramount to minimize potential jury bias. This requires a solid understanding of press relations and the ability to effectively utilize social media for reputation management. Public perception can greatly impact the outcome of a case. Hence, it is essential to construct a narrative that is both truthful and favorably positions the defendant. This involves carefully crafting public statements, controlling the dissemination of information, and promptly addressing any negative publicity. As the case gains visibility, it’s important to maintain courtroom decorum. The court’s environment must remain neutral and free from external influences. This can be achieved by adhering to strict protocols in and out of court, limiting interactions with the media, and practicing discretion on social media platforms. In managing pre-trial publicity, the goal is to preserve the integrity of the legal process, ensuring a fair trial for everyone involved. Facing the anxiety inherent in a court hearing is a significant aspect of any criminal defense case. To effectively manage this stress, it is essential to explore a range of techniques that can help maintain composure in the courtroom. In the following sections, we will examine the nature of hearing day anxiety, present proven stress management strategies, and discuss how to stay composed throughout the court proceedings. The anxiety that grips a defendant’s heart as the hearing day approaches is not unusual. This emotion, often referred to as hearing anxiety, is a common response to the uncertainty and pressure associated with a pending legal proceeding. The combination of anticipation, fear of the unknown, and the gravity of the situation can create a maelstrom of emotions that can be overwhelming. Courtroom nerves, another aspect of hearing anxiety, arise from the formal and often intimidating environment of the courtroom. This can be amplified by the presence of the judge, attorneys, court clerks, and possibly a jury. The formal procedures, legal jargon, and the potential life-altering outcomes can contribute to a heightened sense of anxiety and stress. Understanding hearing day anxiety is essential for defendants. It is not a sign of weakness or an indication of guilt. Rather, it is a human response to a high-stress situation. By recognizing and acknowledging this form of anxiety, defendants can take the first step towards managing their stress levels and preparing mentally and emotionally for their hearing day. Maneuvering the intricate labyrinth of hearing day stress requires an all-encompassing understanding of effective stress management techniques. Traversing this emotional terrain involves a multifaceted approach, where the application of mindfulness practices and breathing exercises comes to the fore. Mindfulness practices are an essential component of stress management. These practices are not only useful for managing stress but also for fostering a sense of tranquility in the midst of chaos. Regular mindfulness practice can help you stay focused and calm, allowing you to respond to stressful situations rather than react impulsively. This method can be as simple as taking a few moments each day to consciously observe your thoughts and feelings without judgement. Breathing exercises, on the other hand, provide an immediate sense of relief. These exercises involve slow, deep breaths that can reduce your heart rate, lower blood pressure, and promote relaxation. Incorporating these exercises into your daily routine can bolster your resilience to stress and improve your overall wellbeing. Amid the high-stakes atmosphere of a courtroom, maintaining your composure can be a formidable challenge. Your courtroom demeanor plays a critical role in how you are perceived by the judge, jury, and opposing counsel. The way you present yourself can influence the outcome of your case, making emotional control an essential skill to master. To maintain composure, begin by understanding the court proceedings. Familiarize yourself with the etiquette required in a courtroom setting and work with your defense attorney to anticipate possible scenarios. This preparedness can help to alleviate anxiety, enabling you to exhibit a composed demeanor. Next, practice emotional control. This doesn’t mean suppressing your feelings, but rather managing them in a way that doesn’t negatively impact your case. If you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to steady your breathing and refocus your thoughts. Keep in mind that it’s okay to show emotion, but excessive display may be perceived as a lack of control or credibility. The typical length of a criminal defense case hearing in Louisiana is not fixed. It hinges on hearing duration and case complexity, which can range from a few hours to multiple days or even weeks. In Louisiana, the jury selection process begins with assembling a diverse jury pool. Jurors are then given instructions and questioned by attorneys to guarantee impartiality, leading to the final selection of unbiased jury members. In Louisiana courts, appropriate courtroom attire and a professional demeanor are essential. Dress should be conservative and respectful, avoiding casual clothes. Maintain a polite and calm demeanor, showing respect for the court’s proceedings and officials. Yes, in Louisiana, you can request a venue change for your hearing. However, significant legal grounds must exist for this request. Consult with your defense attorney to assess the feasibility and strategy for this action. In Louisiana, a conviction can considerably impact employment prospects due to employment discrimination and mandatory background checks, potentially limiting access to certain jobs and creating hurdles in career advancement.'RomCom' APT Mounts Zero-Day, Zero-Click Browser Escapes in Firefox, Tor
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Tinley Park Mayor Michael Glotz faces a reelection challenge from a former labor leader affiliated with the Park District’s project at the former state mental health center. Running with Glotz on the One Tinley Park ticket are Village Clerk Nancy O’Connor and trustees William Brady, Dennis Mahoney and Colleen Sullivan. Glotz, elected in April 2021 , is a member of Operating Engineers Local 150. Brady was first elected in 2017 and Mahoney and Sullivan in April 2021. O’Connor was appointed village clerk in January 2022 and elected in April 2023. Michael Maloney heads the Tinley Together ticket, running with clerk candidate Cynthia “Cindy” O’Boyle and trustee candidates Melissa Sanfilippo, Eric Schmidt and Matthew Walsh. Maloney is the former president of Pipefitters Local 597 and was named by the Tinley Park-Park-District last year to oversee remediation of the 280-acre former Tinley Park Mental Health Center, which the Park District plans to redevelop for recreation uses. Maloney’s construction background includes managing workers on a variety of projects involving highly radioactive components in nuclear power stations across northern Illinois, according to the Park District. The Park District has begun work on the former state-owned property, northwest of Harlem Avenue and 183rd Street, to clear buildings of environmental issues such as asbestos. The Park District envisions an initial phase on 90 acres that includes five baseball fields, six multipurpose athletic fields, a domed soccer field, stadium with running track, accessible playground and a pond. The state is providing the district with $15 million for environmental cleanup and demolition of buildings on the property. Sanfilippo was named to an advisory committee the Park District assembled to get resident input on the cleanup. The state property was the focus of a tug-of-war between the Park District and the village, which had hoped for commercial development, including retail and entertainment uses, that would provide sales tax revenue. The property had one point been considered for a combination harness racing track and casino. The Tinley Together organization was formed Nov. 7, according to a filing with the state election board. At the end of the July-September quarter, One Tinley Park showed cash on hand of $231,000, according to an election board filing. The party showed receipts of $6,000 during the period and expenses of $12,300. One Tinley Park reported receipts during the April-June quarter of just under $47,000. mnolan@southtownstar.comSaudi Arabia will host the 2034 World Cup. But when exactly?
The decision by Tesco, Musgrave and the BWG Group came after a woman who said Mr McGregor raped her won a civil claim for damages against him. Nikita Hand, who accused the sportsman of raping her in a Dublin hotel in December 2018, won her claim against him for damages in a case at the High Court in the Irish capital. In a statement, a spokesman for Musgrave said: “Musgrave can confirm these products are no longer available to our store network.” The network includes SuperValu, Centra, Daybreak and Mace. A Tesco spokesperson said: “We can confirm that we are removing Proper No Twelve Whiskey from sale in Tesco stores and online.” A spokesperson for BWG Group said: “The products are no longer listed for distribution across our network of Spar, Eurospar, Mace, Londis and XL stores, including Appleby Westward which operates over 300 Spar stores in the south west of England.” It is understood that other retail outlets including Costcutter and Carry Out will also stop stocking products linked to Mr McGregor. He and some of his business partners sold their majority stake in the Proper Number Twelve Irish whiskey brand. He was reported to have been paid more than £103 million from the sale to Proximo Spirits in 2021. On Monday, a popular video game developer decided to pull content featuring the MMA fighter. The Irish athlete has featured in multiple video games, including voice-acting a character bearing his likeness in additional downloadable content in the Hitman series. Mr McGregor’s character featured as a target for the player-controlled assassin in the game. IO Interactive, the Danish developer and publisher of Hitman, said in a statement: “In light of the recent court ruling regarding Conor McGregor, IO Interactive has made the decision to cease its collaboration with the athlete, effective immediately. “We take this matter very seriously and cannot ignore its implications. “Consequently, we will begin removing all content featuring Mr McGregor from our storefronts starting today.” Last Friday, the High Court jury awarded damages amounting to 248,603.60 euros (around £206,000) to Ms Hand. Mr McGregor made no comment as he left court but later posted on social media that he intended to appeal against the decision.Hyperconnected employees experiencing ‘dark side’ of digital workWASHINGTON , Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Shield AI, the defense technology company building autonomy for the world, has announced it is expanding its work with Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: PLTR), a leading provider of AI systems, to develop and deliver large-scale command and control of autonomous uncrewed systems, including operations in GPS- and communications-denied environments. With Warp Speed, Palantir's manufacturing OS for American re-industrialization, Shield AI is doubling down on its commitment to delivering scalable, AI-powered solutions to protect service members and civilians. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.Photo: Neptune Technology Group Osoyoos is about 25 per cent done installing its mandatory water meters as of Tuesday. The South Okanagan municipality is looking to have the water metering system ready by April of next year, which will allow it to charge water usage via one flat rate plus one variable rate based on individual usage. Town staff have said the move, first approved in March 2022, will help with water conservation efforts and opportunities. During a committee of the whole meeting on Tuesday, staff provided an update about the installation process so far. Of 1,790 needed meters, over 400 residential meters and 25 commercial meters have been installed by Neptune Technology group so far. The $4.7 million project is being funded by grants and capital reserves but no costs will be put onto homeowners. With installation starting in September, staff said residents have been cooperative. However, many people brought up concerns about the mandatory water meters during a public input special open council meeting on Nov. 15 Residents raised concerns about the need for replacing preexisting meters and the cost of doing so. Rod Risling, CAO and acting director of operational services, said that only meters that are 10 years or older are being replaced. “We're looking to see how they're going to work with a new system. So, some of these meters with slight modifications will be able to communicate to the cell towers, and so what we're going to do is actually test those meters to see if they actually work,” he said. A number of residents took to social media about the installations, some unsettled about alleged or feared property damage during installation, insurance, and the expertise of Neptune Terminals — the contractors hired to do the installations — employees. Staff said that such online discussion has been misleading. “Qualifications of installers has been an issue that has been raised. And it's important to note that Neptune has certified water main installers, so they make sure that each of the people that are visiting residents have gone through training that meets their standards,” Risling said. Work on water service with more than a two-inch line is being done by certified plumbers, and workers are covered by WorkSafeBC, he said. However, homeowners should check for ID when workers arrive. Staff also addressed concerns about property and drywall damage. “Some people are thinking that they have to themselves cut holes in their drywall and installation. And no, that's not the case," Risling said. "The installers will take a look at where the pipes are and determine the best approach to install the meter, and at the end, they should leave your residence clean and tidy within the new water meter.” According to a staff report, everything is going to plan. However, "the number of pit meter installations is higher than anticipated which may result in a slightly later completion in the spring." The water systems with outdoor valves require the cost and labour intensive pit meters because of an underground line connection. Whether the meters mean more savings for tax payers has yet to be seen. Staff said that it will be hiring a consultant to assess data. However, staff at the meeting encouraged the public to look into water conservation such as energy efficient dish washers and landscaping. Additionally, council collectively indicated that it was initially leaning towards installing an automated meter reading, but is now leaning towards an advanced metering infrastructure due to real-time data collection capacity. The newer technology is also contributing to some water meters requiring replacement. Rates regarding water meters have not yet been decided. The meters will be guaranteed by Neptune for a year, at which point the town will take over regarding any problems. For more information regarding Osoyoos' water meters click here .
Lauren is a thought leader in Digital Journal’s Insight Forum ( become a member ). Accuracy, fairness, and independence have long defined journalistic standards. As newsrooms embrace data-driven processes with open arms, human judgment, independence, and expertise are confronted by algorithmic systems that prioritize optimization over traditional journalistic values. The rise of algorithms has reshaped journalism, raising urgent questions about journalistic authority and who controls the narrative. Journalistic language is evolving — from informing audiences to appeasing search engines — where traditional values now bow to production demands. With an increased access to information comes an increased competition to be found , trusted and read . The grounding of human judgment, independence and expertise is now confronted by clouded algorithmic requirements in order to get a journalist’s perspective front and centre. What difference, if any, do these human standards make when machines become essential members of the news-production team? How are these principles transformed when algorithms are introduced into journalism, influencing everything from story selection to content distribution? From story selection to distribution, algorithms now shape every stage of the news cycle, guided by audience-engagement metrics. While technology is often seen and understood as objective, algorithms are fundamentally influenced by the values of their human creators and the datasets they have selected. This becomes particularly controversial when these algorithms are then introduced as a way to prioritize content in the newsroom based on predictions of potential audience engagement. Social media platforms have become gatekeepers of news, with algorithms deciding what content gets seen. This reliance forces newsrooms to prioritize algorithm-friendly content, often at the expense of journalistic integrity and independence. The prioritization of sensationalism over depth, or even fact, as well as the offer of personalization, become unintended consequences of adopting an “objective” technology, slowly but surely eroding journalistic integrity in favour of click-driven content. The algorithmic landscape’s first substantive challenge to journalistic standards lies in exacerbating an already complex tension: the aspiration for impartiality versus the need for engagement. With algorithms dictating publication and distribution, journalists face mounting pressure to craft stories that inform — and captivate. This balancing act is further complicated by the ways algorithms shape not just distribution but also the content itself. When it comes to the actual articles we read, the impact of algorithms becomes more concerning still as we are seeing a new trend in automated articles created by large language models and algorithmic compilations of content. Automated journalism excels at summarizing data but lacks the nuance, depth, and critical perspective that define high-quality reporting. This of course can lead to fears of replacing journalists and eroding diverse human perspectives. In a surprising turn of events, it is precisely the human bias, the lack of perceived objectivity, that gives journalism the edge over tech-generated content. It is human judgment, contextual understanding and the ethical considerations of journalists that the algorithms cannot replicate. Consider, for example, a breaking news story about a local protest. An algorithm might prioritize articles based on engagement metrics — boosting headlines that feature sensational phrases like “clashes erupt” or “violent riots.” However, a journalist on the ground brings a nuanced perspective: they can recognize the protest’s underlying social and economic issues, interview participants to understand their motivations, and ensure that the coverage reflects diverse voices, not just the most clickable angles. Algorithms lack the ability to question the narratives it promotes or to see beyond the data. This is where human judgment is indispensable — it ensures that the story isn’t reduced to a sensational headline but instead provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the event, fostering informed discourse rather than polarization. Maintaining this positionality in light of the previous argument for click-based sensationalism then becomes a challenge to journalistic authority and authenticity — is it still journalism if accuracy and public interest are challenged by engagement-based models? Transparency and disclosure have emerged as central themes in our analysis. As algorithms become more embedded in journalism, the need to openly acknowledge their influence on news production finds itself rising to the forefront. Despite its growing influence, the industry struggles to disclose algorithmic involvement to audiences. Without proper disclosure, the lines between human editorial judgment and algorithmic decision-making blur, raising serious ethical questions. We have all heard at this point that bias and transparency are not exactly strong points for algorithms, especially given that they are trained on historical (and historically biased) data. The perpetuation and exacerbation of societal biases and inequalities then becomes even more prevalent in the magnifying glass that is large data models and artificial intelligence. Disclosure of use of algorithms and AI to generate content and push it to readers is not something that is yet regulated which puts the responsibility back on the company and its readership to determine accountability for transparency and erosion of the human in the loop. To me, the human in the loop represents more than just oversight — it’s about maintaining a vital connection between technology and humanity. It’s the journalist’s ability to apply ethics, context, and critical thinking to ensure the stories we consume reflect the complexity of the world, not just the calculations of an algorithm and the priorities of the people who created it. Without this human element, journalism risks losing the empathy and insight that make it more than just a delivery system for information — it becomes the soul of storytelling itself. We are now living in an era where perception often is reality, especially in journalism and media. The way stories are framed, the headlines we scroll past, and the platforms that surface them shape what audiences believe to be true. Algorithms, designed to optimize for engagement, have exacerbated this phenomenon by prioritizing content that aligns with existing biases, incites strong emotions, or simply keeps users scrolling. In this system, the loudest voices and most sensational stories dominate, while nuance and context are often left behind. The danger is clear: when algorithms amplify perception over fact, they don’t just distort the narrative—they redefine it entirely. Consider the rise of “fake news” during election cycles or the selective visibility of certain voices in social movements. An algorithm prioritizing divisive content because it drives clicks might inadvertently tilt public perception, making a fringe viewpoint appear mainstream or a misleading headline go viral. In this reality, perception is not just shaped by the truth — it becomes the truth for many consumers. Without human judgment to interrogate these narratives, journalism risks becoming a tool of manipulation rather than a force for accountability. The human in the loop, then, isn’t just a safeguard; it’s the last line of defense against a world where algorithms define reality. The key question isn’t what to do about journalism’s changing landscape — it’s how these shifts reshape news-reporting standards. When algorithms dictate content visibility, core journalistic principles like accuracy, independence, and public trust are forced to adapt. Can these values survive in an engagement-driven system, or must they evolve? As technology continues to dominate, journalism faces a crossroads: reconcile traditional ideals with algorithmic realities, or risk losing its relevance and authority. Dr. Lauren Dwyer is an Assistant Professor with Mount Royal University's Information Design undergraduate program researching the role of emerging technologies in communication studies. Dr. Dwyer holds a PhD from Toronto Metropolitan University and York University’s joint Communication and Culture program, where she explored how social robots can be designed to enhance human communication and emotional experiences. Formerly SAIT’s Academic Chair for Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics, she oversaw the development of programs that focus on utilizing data and AI to drive innovation in various fields. Her research interests currently lie at the intersection of emerging technology and human communication, particularly in relation to social robots and artificial intelligence. By approaching these complex topics through a communication studies lens, she has been able to shed new light on the potential impact of technology on human emotions and social connections. Lauren is a member of Digital Journal's Insight Forum.How major US stock indexes fared Wednesday, 12/11/2024
NoneDEAN McCullough and Ant McPartlin came face-to-face on I'm A Celebrity tonight after fans said they spotted a feud between them. Radio 1 DJ Dean has done several dreaded Bushtucker Trials - therefore spending a lot of time with Ant and Dec . In tonight's (November 22) episode, Dean and McFly star Danny Jones took on the latest trial, High Street Of Horrors. Shortly after their arrival, Ant acknowledged past tension between the two. He told the celebrity campmate: "Dean, I'm not angry anymore, I'm just disappointed." The trial itself comprised three shops, each containing a number of stars to win for camp. Read more on I'm A Celeb Overall, the objective was to locate all of them within the allotted time for their shopping spree. The first stop, Grim Grocers had three stars on offer with three minutes to find them. Danny, in his eagerness, tripped over when the klaxon sounded. In their effort, the duo won a total of eight stars for camp altogether. Most read in I’m A Celebrity 2024 At the same time, new additions Reverend Richard Coles and Maura Higgins continued their deceit of the main camp. Arriving before Danny and Dean, they pretended to have already done the trial miserably - winning no stars. Reverend Richard joked: “I’m really consumed with guilt!” A twist after the trial saw Dean go back to the Junkyard with Maura and Reverend Richard. Ant previously addressed the "feud" with Dean during Thursday's episode of ITV2 spin-off show Unpacked. The star admitted he was "annoyed" at the DJ for screaming 'I'm A Celeb' and quitting the task early - and being "unprofessional" in how he dealt with it. He said: "My annoyance came across on screen and it was quite unprofessional and I'm not happy about it." Dec sarcastically responded "I think you hid it quite well, Ant...I think you hid it quite well." Ant went on: "You get to the point when you think 'what are you doing?'" Taking to social media, viewers at home shared their observations. i'm A Celebrity is back for its 24th series, with a batch of famous faces living in the Aussie jungle. The Sun's Jake Penkethman takes a look at the stars on the show this year.. Coleen Rooney - Arguably the most famous name in the camp, the leading WAG, known for her marriage to Wayne Rooney , has made a grand return to TV as she looks to put the Wagatha Christie scandal behind her. The Sun revealed the mum-of-four had bagged an eye-watering deal worth over £1.5million to be on the show this year making her the highest-paid contestant ever. Tulisa - The popstar and former X Factor judge has made her triumphant TV comeback by signing up to this year's I'm A Celeb after shunning TV shows for many years. Known for being a member of the trio, N-Dubz , Tulisa became a household name back in 2011 when she signed on to replace Cheryl on ITV show The X Factor in a multi-million pound deal. Alan Halsall - The actor, known for playing the long-running role of Tyrone Dobbs on ITV soap opera Coronation Street , was originally signed up to head Down Under last year but an operation threw his scheduled appearance off-course. Now he has become the latest Corrie star to win over both the viewers and his fellow celebrities. Melvin Odoom - The Radio DJ has become a regular face on TV screens after rising to fame with presenting roles on Kiss FM, BBC Radio 1 and 4Music. Melvin has already been for a spin on the Strictly dancefloor and co-hosted The Xtra Factor with Rochelle Humes in 2015 but now he is facing up to his biggest challenge yet - the Aussie jungle . GK Barry - The UK's biggest social media personality, GK, whose real name is Grace Keeling, has transformed her TikTok stardom into a lucrative career. Aside from her popular social media channels, she hosts the weekly podcast, Saving Grace, and regularly appears on ITV talk show, Loose Women . She has even gone on to endorse popular brands such as PrettyLittleThing, KFC and Ann Summers. Dean McCullough - A rising star amongst this year's bunch of celebs , Dean first achieved notability through his radio appearances on Gaydio and BBC Radio 1. He was chosen to join the BBC station permanently in 2021 and has featured prominently ever since. He has enjoyed a crossover to ITV over the past year thanks to his guest slots on Big Brother spin-off show, Late & Live. Oti Mabuse - The pro dancer has signed up to her latest TV show after making her way through the biggest programmes on the box. She originally found fame on Strictly Come Dancing but has since branched out into the world of TV judging with appearances on former BBC show The Greatest Dancer as well as her current role on ITV's Dancing On Ice . Danny Jones - The McFly star was drafted into the programme last minute as a replacement for Tommy Fury. Danny is the second member of McFly to enter the jungle , after Dougie Poynter won the show in 2011. He is also considered a rising star on ITV as he's now one of the mentors on their Saturday night talent show, The Voice , along with bandmate Tom Fletcher . Jane Moore - The Loose Women star and The Sun columnist is braving the creepy crawlies this year. The star is ready for a new challenge - having recently split from her husband . It will be Jane's first foray into reality TV with the telly favourite having always said no to reality shows in the past. Barry McGuigan - Former pro boxer Barry is the latest fighting champ to head Down Under following in the footsteps of Tony Bellew and Amir Khan . It comes after a tough few years for Irish star Barry, who lost his daughter Danika to bowel cancer . He told The Late Late Show in 2021: "She was such an intrinsic part of the family that every day we ache." Maura Higgins - The Irish TV beauty first found fame on Love Island where she found a brief connection with dancer Curtis Pritchard . Since then, she has competed on Dancing On Ice as well as hosting the Irish version of the beauty contest, Glow Up. Since last year, she has been working on building up her career in the US by being the social media correspondent and host of Aftersun to accompany Love Island USA. She even guest hosted an episode of the spin-off, Love Island Games, in place of Maya Jama last year. Rev. Richard Coles - Former BBC radio host the Rev Richard Coles is a late arrival on I’m A Celebrity , and he's ready to spill the beans on his former employer. The former Communards and Strictly star , said the BBC did not know its a**e from its elbow last year. An insider said: "Rev Coles will have a variety of tales to tell from his wild days as a pop star in the Eighties, through to performing on Strictly and his later life as a man of the cloth." One wrote on X: “im not angry” “im just disappointed” ant is so fed up with dean." Another added: "dying at how obvious it is that ant cannot stand dean." READ MORE SUN STORIES While a third commented: "Ant & Dec absolutely despise Dean don’t they #ImACeleb." I'm A Celebrity continues on ITV1 and ITVX .
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Today, Dec. 6, is the anniversary of the Polytechnique massacre and the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. Port Moody–Coquitlam NDP MP Bonita Zarrillo delivered a blunt speech on the topic in the House of Commons. "It has been 35 years since Barbara Kuchnik-Vijadavich, Annie Turcotte, Annie St-Arneault, Michèle Richard, Sonia Pelletier, Anne-Marie Lemay, Maryse Leclair, Maryse Laganière, Maud Haviernick, Anne-Marie Edward, Barbara Dayneault, Nathalie Croteau, Hélène Colgan and Geneviève Bergeron were murdered for being a woman. New Democrats will always remember the women of Polytechnique Montreal as they lost their lives to patriarchy and white privilege. This deadly combination continues, with the upholding of male supremacy across the globe. It is called misogyny: an ingrained prejudice and contempt for women. It is misogyny that has kept women excluded from the hallways of power. It is what has limited their job opportunities, income, ability to move freely in community, be safe from violence or to even have the healthcare they need. And, for Indigenous women in Canada, the impacts are even more deadly. Indigenous women are killed at seven times the rate of non-Indigenous women in Canada. This is a recognized genocide that has become so normalized in this country that when an Indigenous woman, girl or two-spirit individual goes missing or is killed, it barely makes the news. That reality is happening right now in Winnipeg where murdered Indigenous women have been abandoned in a landfill. And it was not a given that the hallways of power would offer dignity to these women and search for them wherever they were. No, it took the pressure of sisters to get it done and I take a moment here to recognize the power of the NDP member from Winnipeg Centre, who fought alongside Indigenous women and their families and created a red-dress alert system to find and protect Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people. This is what action on violence against women looks like. It is shameful that women and diverse-gender people in this country need to stand on guard because, in 35 years, misogyny has not dissipated; in fact, it has increased. With the reach of online gaming and social media, misogyny now has a new name: manospheres. These are clubs, podcasts, books and influencers who use these platforms to radicalize young males through a combination of algorithmic design, social dynamics and exposure to extremist ideologies. Remember these words: Algorithmic Amplification, Gamification of Hate, Normalization of Misogyny, Recruitment of Vulnerability men, and lack of Counter-Messaging. These are all enemies of human rights and are the new wave of violence against women and diverse genders. Right now, the Winnipeg Human Rights Museum draws the country’s attention to the fact, and I quote from their website, "that a growing number of men spread hateful ideas about women, trans and non-binary people online. Some internet communities even encourage and celebrate gender-based violence. Researchers have called for a variety of regulatory and technical improvements to reduce the reach and harmfulness of radical, hateful internet content. Simply banning users who engage in hate speech — deplatforming them — has been shown to reduce their reach. Legislatures must take action on this immediately as the internet giants will not because they are financially benefiting from hate. So, this is where Canada is at 35 years after 14 aspiring engineers were killed for being women, and bravely stepping into the manosphere. Today, and every day, New Democrats honour the women who lost their lives at École Polytechnique, and to every victim of gender-based violence. And we call on the government and the Opposition to stop fuelling hate, take immediately action to end the amplification of misogyny and end decades of government’s systemic failures to protect the fundamental human rights of women and gender-diverse people in this country." 📣 Got an opinion on this story or any others in the Tri-Cities? Send us a letter or email your thoughts or story tips to [email protected] . 📲 Want to stay updated on Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Anmore and Belcarra news? Sign up for our free daily newsletter . 💬 Words missing in an article? Your adblocker might be preventing hyperlinked text from appearing.
Stock market today: Wall Street gets back to climbing, and the Nasdaq tops 20,000Awareness session on education system held Rawalpindi:An awareness session was held here on Tuesday at Women University Rawalpindi, Sixth Road, under the auspices of the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE) and Punjab's Cantab Publishers, regarding the transition of exams in Punjab to a conceptual examination model. Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikander Hayat graced the event as the chief guest. The session was attended by Chairman BISE Rawalpindi Muhammad Adnan, Chairman Lahore Board Mian Zahid, Chairman HEC Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Secretary Higher Education Dr. Farrukh Naveed, Vice-Chancellor Women University Rawalpindi, CEO Education Rawalpindi Amanullah Khan, Controller of Examinations Rawalpindi Board Tanveer Asghar, Professor Shazia Naeem, Dr. Naeem, vice-chancellors of other universities and, teachers, and a large number of distinguished guests. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed emphasised the importance of proper education and training for students to guide them in the right direction. Professor Shazia Naeem stated that Pakistani children are not lacking in talent; however, instead of turning them into rote learners, we need to equip them to face new technologies through conceptual learning. Dr. Naeem highlighted that there is no shortage of opportunities in Pakistan. While governments create policies, their implementation often lags behind. He stressed the vital role of teachers, as they bear the significant responsibility of educating and training students. Without proper training for teachers, students cannot be guided effectively. He further added that the education system needs to transition matriculation to O-level and intermediate to A-level standards, emphasising the need for changes in examinations. Teachers are tasked with shaping the nation, and the curriculum is the core of any institution. Dr. Naeem stated that we need children equipped with modern technology and able to benefit from it. The current education system must change, as it does not prepare children for self-reliance. This is the era of computers, where robots have started to take over many tasks. He also referenced Lord Macaulay's examination methods, where questions were based on critical thinking, contrasting them with the lack of such practices in current education. Despite having a comprehensive National Education Policy, implementation is hindered by the monopoly of the textbook board. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Education Minister Sikander Hayat are seriously working on introducing conceptual exams for students and have established a task force for this purpose. Conceptual learning, they believe, will enable children to compete in modern technology. The Education Minister announced that the government is launching a teacher training program and highlighted the need for practical learning. He stated that school and college heads will be empowered and all issues in the education department will be resolved within the next three months. Collaboration with Google is also underway to transform the system. Only education, he said, can produce good citizens and good human beings.
For a tech-driven Pakistan
