Broncos can wipe away back-to-back heartbreakers and make playoffs by beating Kansas City

Hegseth, a former Fox News host, Army National Guard major and combat veteran, spent much of the week on Capitol Hill trying to salvage his Cabinet nomination and privately reassure Republican senators that he is fit to lead Trump's Pentagon. "Pete Hegseth is doing very well," Trump posted on his social media site. "He will be a fantastic, high energy, Secretary of Defense." The president added that "Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!" The nomination battle is emerging not only as a debate about the best person to lead the Pentagon, but an inflection point for a MAGA movement that appears to be relishing a public fight over its hard-line push for a more masculine military and an end to the "woke-ism" of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. Military leaders are rattled by a list of “woke” senior officers that a conservative group urged Hegseth to dismiss for promoting diversity in the ranks if he is confirmed to lead the Pentagon. The list compiled by the American Accountability Foundation includes 20 general officers or senior admirals and a disproportionate number of female officers. It has had a chilling effect on the Pentagon’s often frank discussions as leaders try to figure out how to address the potential firings and diversity issues under Trump. Those on the list in many cases seem to be targeted for public comments they made either in interviews or at events on diversity, and in some cases for retweeting posts that promote diversity. Tom Jones, a former aide to Republican senators who leads the foundation, said Friday those on the list are “pretty egregious” advocates for diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, policies, which he called problematic. “The nominee has been pretty clear that that has no place in the military,” Jones said of Hegseth. Hegseth embraced Trump’s effort to end programs that promote diversity in the ranks and fire those who reflect those values. Other Trump picks, like Kash Patel for FBI director, have suggested targeting those in government who are not aligned with Trump. Trump's allies forcefully rallied around Hegseth — the Heritage Foundation's political arm promised to spend $1 million to shore up his nomination — as he vows to stay in the fight, as long as the president-elect wants him to. "We're not abandoning this nomination," Vice-President-elect JD Vance said as he toured post-hurricane North Carolina. He said he spoke with GOP senators and believes Hegseth will be confirmed. The effort became a test of Trump's clout and of how far loyalty for the president-elect goes with Republican senators who have concerns about his nominees. Two of Trump's other choices stepped aside as they faced intense scrutiny: former Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., his first choice for attorney general, and Chad Chronister, a Florida sheriff who was Trump's first choice to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration. Thanking the president-elect for the support, Hegseth posted on social media, "Like you, we will never back down." Hegseth faces resistance from senators as reports emerged about his past, including the revelation that he made a settlement payment after being accused of a sexual assault that he denies. He promised not to drink on the job and told lawmakers he never engaged in sexual misconduct, even as his professional views on female troops came under intensifying scrutiny. He said as recently as last month that women "straight up" should not serve in combat. He picked up one important endorsement from Republican Sen. Katie Britt of Alabama, whose support was seen as a potentially powerful counterweight to the cooler reception Hegseth received from Sen. Joni Ernst, a former Army National Guard lieutenant colonel. Ernst, who is also a sexual assault survivor, stopped short of an endorsement after meeting with Hegseth this week. On Friday, Ernst posted on X that she would meet with him again next week. “At a minimum, we agree that he deserves the opportunity to lay out his vision for our warfighters at a fair hearing,” she wrote. On Friday, Trump put out the statement in response to coverage saying he lost faith in Hegseth, according to a person familiar with his thinking who was not authorized to discuss it publicly. The president-elect and his team were pleased to see Hegseth putting up a fight and his performance this week reiterates why he was chosen, the person said. They believe he can still be confirmed. If Hegseth goes down, Trump's team believes the defeat would empower others to spread what they cast as "vicious lies" against every candidate Trump chooses. Still, Trump's transition team is looking at potential replacements, including former presidential rival Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. DeSantis plans to attend the Dec. 14 Army-Navy football game with Trump, according to a person familiar with the Florida governor's plans who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity. DeSantis and Trump spoke about the defense secretary post Tuesday at a memorial service for sheriff deputies in West Palm Beach, Fla., according to people familiar with the matter who said Trump was interested in DeSantis for the post, and the governor was receptive. DeSantis is poised to select a replacement for the expected Senate vacancy to be created by Marco Rubio becoming secretary of state, and Trump's daughter-in-law Lara Trump is seen as the preferred choice by those in Trump's orbit.The world is an incredible place, and as usual, National Geographic has the photos to prove it. The magazine’s editors have chosen the best images from the past year to showcase in their annual photo issue, highlighting the top moments captured by their photographers. From baby penguins to a fiery volcano, a rare tiger to a biofuel that could save the planet, here are five photos that offer a timely reminder to step away from the political chaos for a minute and contemplate the wonders of the universe. ADVERTISEMENT Fuego Volcano in Guatemala has been erupting continually since 2002. This image shows hikers who have made the one-day trek to the top of its dormant twin, Acatenango, to see one of Fuego’s breathtaking eruptions, which can take place multiple times a day. A young emperor penguin jumps off a 50-foot cliff to take its first swim. Penguins typically breed on low-lying sea ice, but climate change has pushed some colonies to higher, more permanent shelves. As the image shows, that hasn’t stopped their intrepid young from taking their first, daring swims. A rare black tiger with tell-tale merged stripes patrols the Similipal Tiger Reserve in India. Black tigers are one of three color variants found among Bengal tigers, with their black patch caused by a genetic mutation. The photo was taken with a remote camera trap triggered by the tiger’s motion. Macaw parrots are a popular but undesirable pet. They can live 40 to 60 years but panic in captivity, leaving many owners to abandon them to wildlife refuges like the Oasis Sanctuary in Arizona, pictured here. In the photo, executive director Janet Trumbule tries to coax them with walnuts. This photo might not be the most visually stunning of the bunch, but its implications are huge. It shows a solar synthetic fluid from the Swiss company Synhelion made using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide. The new fuel could someday be used to power trucks, ships, and planes—all without any retrofitting. Maybe there’s hope for humankind after all. For more on this story—and to go behind the scenes with the photographers—visit NatGeo.com/Photos .None

BOSTON , Dec. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The China Fund, Inc. (NYSE: CHN) (the "Fund") announced today that the Fund's annual stockholder meeting (the "Meeting") will be scheduled for Thursday, March 13, 2025 , via a virtual forum at 11:00 a.m. ET . Stockholders of record as of January 15, 2025 will be entitled to notice of, and to attend and vote at, the Meeting. The notice for the Meeting will be mailed to shareholders on or about February 10, 2025 . The Fund is a closed-end management investment company with the objective of seeking long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in equity securities (i) of companies for which the principal securities trading market is in the People's Republic of China (" China "), or (ii) of companies for which the principal securities trading market is outside of China , or constituting direct equity investments in companies organized outside of China , that in both cases derive at least 50% of their revenues from goods and services sold or produced, or have at least 50% of their assets, in China . While the Fund is permitted to invest in direct equity investments of companies organized in China , it presently holds no such investments. Shares of the Fund are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "CHN". The Fund's investment manager is Matthews International Capital Management, LLC. For further information regarding the Fund and the Fund's holdings, please call (888)-CHN-CALL (246-2255) or visit the Fund's website at www.chinafundinc.com . View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-china-fund-inc-announces-date-of-annual-meeting-of-stockholders-302331705.html SOURCE The China Fund, Inc.Flag football uses talent camps to uncover new stars

Amid rising expectations, ( ) on Monday reported third-quarter earnings and revenue that topped estimates as enterprise sales growth beat views. Revenue guidance for Zoom stock came in slightly above views amid a recent rally. The company reported October-ended quarter earnings after the market close. The company changed its corporate name to Zoom Communications. The stock ticker remains ZM. Zoom earnings for the third quarter were $1.38 per share on an adjusted basis, up 7% from a year earlier. Revenue rose 3.6% to $1.178 billion. Zoom stock analysts had projected earnings of $1.31 a share on sales of $1.163 billion. ZM Stock: Enterprise A Bright Spot In the enterprise market for business customers, revenue rose 6% to $699 million, topping estimates of $683 million. On the , Zoom stock slipped fractionally to 88.34 in extended trading. In 2024, ZM stock had gained 19%, with most of the advance coming after the company reported Q2 earnings. For the October quarter, Zoom said it expects revenue in a range of $1.175 billion to $1.18, slightly ahead of estimates of $1.17 billion. Zoom's cloud-based software sets up video calls, with chat tools available. Zoom Video aims to morph into a broader communications platform for business customers. Zoom Video has been integrating artificial intelligence into more products. Many software companies are . Also, Zoom Video holds $7.5 billion in cash on its balance sheet. Zoom Stock: Post-Covid Blues Meanwhile, Zoom Video sales growth slowed as the in the post-coronavirus era. During the Covid-19 emergency, demand for Zoom videoconferencing software surged as businesses told employees to work from home and consumers contacted friends and family. Heading into the Zoom earnings report, shares owned an IBD Relative Strength Rating of 86 out of a best possible 99, according to ZM stock is extended and trades above a . Meanwhile, ( ) and its Teams communication platform is a big competitor.How Trump’s bet on voters electing him managed to silence some of his legal woes

Valve’s master plan for Steam Machines is finally coming into focusThe RSM Classic Par Scores

LAS VEGAS -- The Milwaukee Bucks are making a return trip to the NBA Cup semifinals after falling short in Sin City last season. This time around, they'll have the responsibility of stopping one of the game's great entertainers in Trae Young and the Atlanta Hawks. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Cardlytics reports that card-linked cash-back offers represent a strategic stocking stuffer for smart shoppers navigating the expensive holiday landscape. Click for more. Holiday spending hacks: How to unwrap savings without sacrificing festive cheerAP Business SummaryBrief at 4:39 p.m. ESTAs he delivered his postgame speech after the Vikings escaped with a 23-22 win over the Arizona Cardinals last Sunday, head coach Kevin O’Connell locked eyes with undrafted defensive tackle Jalen Redmond. ADVERTISEMENT After watching Redmond explode into the backfield on multiple occasions, making a couple of tackles for a loss in the process, O’Connell wanted to make it known how much he appreciated his impact on the game. So, as he handed out game balls like he typically does after each win, O’Connell made sure Redmond got the recognition he deserved. “Sometimes we start feeling a guy’s energy,” O’Connell said. “Just highlighting that.” Redmond was caught off guard in the locker room at U.S. Bank Stadium, joking that he almost started to get emotional when he heard O’Connell say his name aloud. ADVERTISEMENT “It meant a lot,” Redmond said. “It was a special moment.” It was a stark contrast to back in training camp at TCO Performance Center when Redmond got kicked out of practice by O’Connell in response to a scuffle after the whistle. He remembers leaving that particular summer practice a little bit unsure about his future with the Vikings. “When I was walking off I was like, ‘Oh man. What did I do? I messed up,’ ” Redmond said. “The rule was not to fight, and I know that, so I was, like, ‘Man. I can’t be doing this stuff. I’m barely here.’ ” Fortunately for Redmond, O’Connell was forgiving in the immediate aftermath, and he got to keep his spot on the roster. Fortunately for the Vikings, Redmond has made the most of his opportunity, and he has slowly started carving out a niche for himself this season. ADVERTISEMENT “There’s a reason why he made our team,” O’Connell said. “He’s a perfect fit for our scheme with the way we move those guys up front.” The fact that Redmond has proven skills as interior pass rusher is something defensive coordinator Brian Flores has tapped into even more he’s found places to insert him into the game on a weekly basis. “The athleticism jumped out immediately,” Flores said. “This guy can run.” ADVERTISEMENT That has long been a calling card for Redmond. He was an explosive athlete in college at Oklahoma, and ran the 40-yard dash in 4.81 seconds, proving he had the twitchiness to play at the next level. After signing with the Carolina Panthers as an undrafted free agent, Redmond arrived at rookie minicamp hellbent on proving everybody wrong. He got cut after training camp despite showing flashes of his potential. “It crushed me,” Redmond said. “I didn’t know if I was ever going to get another shot.” As he sat at home wondering what was next for him, Redmond randomly got a call from the legendary Bob Stoops, the former head coach of Oklahoma, who is now the head coach of the Arlington Renegades of the UFL. ADVERTISEMENT “It was wild,” Redmond said. “I look at my phone and see the name. I was like, “Why is Bob Stoops calling me?’ I answered it and he asked if I wanted to play on his team.” After growing up in in Oklahoma, Redmond was not about to say no to a legend. He joined the Arlington Renegades and eventually parlayed that into a cup of coffee with the Vikings ahead of training camp “I went there with the mindset that I was going to make the best of it and try to get back to where I wanted to be,” Redmond said. “I had a lot of fun there, and it helped get me to where I am now.” ADVERTISEMENT Though he wasn’t exactly a household name, Redmond did enough to make the team out of training camp. “Whenever I walk through those doors and my code still works, I don’t take it for granted,” Redmond said. “I put in everything I can to everything I do here because I’ve been on the other side of it.” Now he’s starting to look more and more like somebody who could emerge as a key contributor for the Vikings down the road. “That’s all I wanted to do when I got here,” Redmond said. “Just prove that I can play at this level.” He can. He has a game ball as proof. “I was so happy for him,” Flores said. “I think he’s got a long career in front of him.” ______________________________________________________ This story was written by one of our partner news agencies. Forum Communications Company uses content from agencies such as Reuters, Kaiser Health News, Tribune News Service and others to provide a wider range of news to our readers. Learn more about the news services FCC uses here .

WASHINGTON -- Former Rep. Matt Gaetz said Friday that he will not be returning to Congress after withdrawing his name from consideration to be attorney general under President-elect Donald Trump amid growing allegations of sexual misconduct. “I’m still going to be in the fight, but it’s going to be from a new perch. I do not intend to join the 119th Congress,” Gaetz told conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, adding that he has “some other goals in life that I’m eager to pursue with my wife and my family.” The announcement comes a day after Gaetz, a Florida Republican, stepped aside from the Cabinet nomination process amid growing fallout from federal and House Ethics investigations that cast doubt on his ability to be confirmed as the nation’s chief federal law enforcement officer. The 42-year-old has vehemently denied the allegations against him. Gaetz's nomination as attorney general had stunned many career lawyers inside the Justice Department, but reflected Trump's desire to place a loyalist in a department he has marked for retribution following the criminal cases against him. Hours after Gaetz withdrew, Trump nominated Pam Bondi, the former Florida attorney general, who would come to the job with years of legal work under her belt and that other trait Trump prizes above all: loyalty. It's unclear what's next for Gaetz, who is no longer a member of the House. He surprised colleagues by resigning from Congress the same day that Trump nominated him for attorney general. Some speculated he could still be sworn into office for another two-year term on Jan. 3, given that he had just won reelection earlier this month. But Gaetz, who has been in state and national politics for 14 years, said he's done with Congress. “I think that eight years is probably enough time in the United States Congress," he said.

Bucks get second crack at NBA Cup semis vs. Trae Young, HawksPVH Corp. stock underperforms Friday when compared to competitors

The launch of O-Train service will be delayed for more than four hours on Sunday, Dec. 1, as OC Transpo continues preparation for the launch of O-Train service in Ottawa's east end. OC Transpo general manager Renee Amilcar says the O-Train will be closed from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Dec. 1, to allow for testing of the Stage 2 software integration. "This temporary closure is required to perform testing of the Train Control System along with high-speed data radio, camera, and passenger information systems," Amilcar said. "Testing the integration of Stage 2 software with the existing O-Train system is a key step in preparing for the extension of O-Train Line 1 to Trim Station in 2025." The Line 1 extension will see the O-Train run between Blair Station and Trim Station. The Confederation Line normally opens at 8 a.m. on Sundays. Amilcar says R1 bus service will operate between Tunney's Pasture and Blair stations from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., and an R1 shuttle bus will run between St. Laurent and Cyrville stations and Lees Station and Mackenzie King Bridge. The O-Train was closed the first weekend of October to allow for Stage 2 East integration work, giving officials a chance to test and validate the train control software to integrate the east extension with the existing O-Train Line 1. Ottawa Top Stories Seniors facing 60% hike for OC Transpo monthly transit pass in 2025 under new proposal Woman seriously injured in October house fire dies in hospital, Ottawa police say Orleans man calls for changes after service guide dog attacked by another dog Ottawa police officer acquitted in death of Abdirahman Abdi testifies at inquest Pat King found guilty of mischief for role in 'Freedom Convoy' Ottawa Food Bank declares an emergency amid record-breaking usage Porter Airlines launches seasonal routes between Ottawa and Florida New Ottawa police mounted unit will cost $1.4 million a year CTVNews.ca Top Stories Nearly 46,000 electric vehicles recalled in Canada over potential power loss Nearly 46,000 electric vehicles from Kia, Hyundai and Genesis are being recalled in Canada over a potential power loss issue that can increase the risk of a crash. Canada Post quarterly loss tops $300M as strike hits second week -- and rivals step in Canada Post saw hundreds of millions of dollars drain out of its coffers last quarter, due largely to its dwindling share of the parcels market, while an ongoing strike continues to batter its bottom line. 'Immoral depravity': Two men convicted in case of frozen migrant family in Manitoba A jury has found two men guilty on human smuggling charges in a case where a family from India froze to death in Manitoba while trying to walk across the Canada-U.S. border. Canada's tax relief plan: Who gets a cheque? The Canadian government has unveiled its plans for a sweeping GST/HST pause on select items during the holiday period. The day after the announcement, questions remain on how the whole thing will work. Quebec man, 81, gets prison sentence after admitting to killing wife with Alzheimer's disease An 81-year-old Quebec man has been sentenced to prison after admitting to killing his wife with Alzheimer's disease. Pat King found guilty of mischief for role in 'Freedom Convoy' Pat King, one of the most prominent figures of the 2022 'Freedom Convoy' in Ottawa, has been found guilty on five counts including mischief and disobeying a court order. Trump supporters review-bomb B.C. floral shop by accident A small business owner from B.C.’s Fraser Valley is speaking out after being review-bombed by confused supporters of U.S. president-elect Donald Trump this week. Grey Cup streaker fined $10K, banned from BC Place The woman who ran across the field wearing nothing but her shoes at last weekend’s Grey Cup has been given a fine and banned from BC Place. Ground beef tied to U.S. E. coli recall, illnesses wasn't sold in Canada: distributor At least 19 people in Minnesota have been sickened by E. coli poisoning tied to a national recall of more than 167,000 pounds of potentially tainted ground beef, federal health officials said. Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks 24 Of The Best Host And Hostess Gifts You Can Find Online Right Now The Best Advent Calendars For Women In 2024 All The Best Beauty Stocking Stuffers That Ring In Under $25 Home Our Guide to the Best Jewellery Boxes You Can Find Online Right Now 16 Home Gadgets That'll Make Your Life Easier The 5 Best Drip Coffee Makers In Canada In 2024, Tested and Reviewed Gifts 23 Gifts, Add-Ons, And Stocking Stuffers For Anyone Who Spends A Lot Of Time In Their Car The Ultimate 2024 Holiday Gift Guide For Nature Lovers And Outdoor Adventurers 27 Of The Absolute Best Stocking Stuffers For Men Beauty 20 Anti-Aging Skincare Products That Reviewers Can’t Stop Talking About 12 Budget-Friendly Makeup Brushes And Tools Worth Adding To Your Kit If You Suffer From Dry Skin, You'll Want To Add At Least One Of These Hydrating Moisturizers To Your Cart Deals Black Friday Has Begun On Amazon Canada: Here Are The Best Deals Black Friday Is Almost Here, But These Deals On Mattresses And Bedding Are Already Live This Botanic Hearth Rosemary Hair Oil Has Thousands Of 5-Star Reviews — And It's On Sale For Amazon Canada's Early Black Friday Sale Atlantic P.E.I. teen sentenced to 2 years in custody in death of Tyson MacDonald A teen who pleaded guilty in the death of 17-year-old Tyson MacDonald on Prince Edward Island last year has been sentenced to two years in custody. Taylor Swift Fan brings souvenir home to Nova Scotia from the Eras tour Annie Gallant, a 10-year-old from Nova Scotia, brought home a special gift from her first concert. What to know about the weekend rain, wind, and waves in the Maritimes A fall storm moving from Cape Cod into the Maritimes will bring rainy and windy weather to the region this weekend. Toronto Trudeau announces funding to feed 160,000 Ontario students An additional 160,000 students in Ontario will get access to free meals, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced at a Brampton, Ont. school Friday. 3 charged in connection with collision between TTC bus and stolen BMW that injured 9 Three people are facing charges in connection with a carjacking of a stolen BMW that collided with a TTC bus in North York early Monday morning. Toronto man onboard Blue Origin flight to space says he 'can't wait to go again' Henry Wolfond returned to Earth Friday morning after a quick trip to the edge of space. The Toronto finance executive was part of a six-person crew onboard the New Shepard, a reuseable rocket designed for space tourism by Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin. Montreal Quebec man, 81, gets prison sentence after admitting to killing wife with Alzheimer's disease An 81-year-old Quebec man has been sentenced to prison after admitting to killing his wife with Alzheimer's disease. Montreal family doctor admits to fathering child with 19-year-old patient A Montreal family doctor has vowed to stop practicing medicine after he admitted to fathering a child with a 19-year-old woman who was his patient. Third suspect sought in killing of Montreal cryptocurrency influencer Quebec provincial police are searching for a third suspect in connection with Kevin Mirshahi, the cryptocurrency influencer who was kidnapped and killed last summer. Northern Ontario Senior killed in dog attack in northern Ont. An 81-year-old was killed in a dog attack this week in Bonfield, Ont. Police believe three dogs were involved. Woman stabbed multiple times in Sudbury altercation A 30-year-old woman is in hospital in Sudbury after she was stabbed multiple times early Friday morning in Chelmsford. Police investigating death in Magnetawan, Ont. The Almaguin Highlands detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police is investigating a sudden death in Magnetawan. Windsor Truck fire on the Ambassador Bridge Windsor fire responded to a transport truck fire on Friday afternoon on the Ambassador Bridge. Attempted bank robbery leads to arrest Windsor police are crediting a quick response by their downtown patrol officers to help arrest a 39-year-old man after an attempted bank robbery. Man arrested in connection to sexual assault on public bus: WPS A man has been arrested by Windsor police following an incident on a public bus. London VIDEO | London house fire spreads to neighbouring property London fire crews and police are on scene of a house fire in east London. Crews were called to the 1800 block of Culver Drive, east of Third Street and south of Oxford Street, around 11:30 a.m. New | Following surge in student enrollment, LDCSB reports $9.5 million surplus for 2023-2024 Although initial projections put the London District Catholic School Board (LDCSB) $1.5 million short, the audited financial numbers for 2023-2024 are finally in, and the board will finish the year with a $9.5 million surplus. Canada's tax relief plan: Who gets a cheque? The Canadian government has unveiled its plans for a sweeping GST/HST pause on select items during the holiday period. The day after the announcement, questions remain on how the whole thing will work. Kitchener Man charged in Kitchener crash involving Grand River Transit LRT Charges were laid after a crash between an LRT train and a Dodge vehicle shut down a busy Kitchener street for more than eight hours on Thursday. FunGuyz says it's closing all 30 of its magic mushroom stores in Ontario FunGuyz, which calls itself the biggest magic mushroom dispensary in Canada, says it's shutting down all 30 of its Ontario locations. The Boathouse reopens in Kitchener's Victoria Park A reopening ceremony was held in Kitchener’s Victoria Park Friday morning at 11 a.m. at The Boathouse, a restaurant and live music venue. Barrie Highway 400 closed in Muskoka Lakes after fatal propane truck rollover Emergency crews were called to Highway 400 in Georgian Bay Township Friday morning after a fatal tanker truck rollover. Drug trafficking investigation results in largest fentanyl seizure in Simcoe County: OPP Two people are facing drug trafficking charges after what provincial police are calling the largest fentanyl seizure in Simcoe County. Barrie magic mushroom dispensary closed after company announces its shuttering Ont. locations The doors are locked and the OPEN sign is off on Friday at an illegal magic mushroom dispensary in downtown Barrie one day after FunGuyz announced it would shutter its 30 Ontario locations. Winnipeg Semi crash, train derailment closes Winnipeg road Winnipeg police are responding to a train derailment and semi collision that has closed a section of Fermor Avenue and the Perimeter Highway Friday afternoon. 'Immoral depravity': Two men convicted in case of frozen migrant family in Manitoba A jury has found two men guilty on human smuggling charges in a case where a family from India froze to death in Manitoba while trying to walk across the Canada-U.S. border. Manitoba RCMP officer fatally shoots armed teenager, IIU investigating Manitoba’s police watchdog is investigating after a RCMP officer fatally shot a teenager armed with a weapon Friday morning in Norway House Cree Nation. Calgary 'Sounded like a bomb': Mahogany residents stunned by townhouse explosion, fire Investigators are working to piece together what caused an explosion and fire at a six-plex in the southeast Calgary community of Mahogany. Sixth person charged in Tara Miller's death Alberta RCMP have charged a sixth person in connection with the death of Calgarian Tara Miller. ‘Pinch me I’m dreaming:’ Calgary drummer pulled from crowd to play with the Arkells For young musicians, to be up on stage in front of thousands of people, would be a dream come true. That’s exactly what happened to a Calgary girl, after being invited to play with Canadian rock icons The Arkells. Edmonton Direct flights to Houston available in Edmonton starting next year Edmonton International Airport (YEG) has announced more direct flights to the United States starting next spring. What were those columns of light over Edmonton Thursday? Social media lit up with pictures of the evening sky over the Edmonton area late Thursday. Weather conditions were just right for what are known as 'light pillars.' Man intentionally drove his vehicle into Alberta home before firing long gun: RCMP An Alberta man has been charged after he allegedly drove his vehicle into a home and fired a gun in a town east of Edmonton. Regina B.C. man dies in collision on Sask. highway A man from British Columbia has died in a two-vehicle collision on Highway 6 near Milestone, Sask. Snowfall warning expands to Regina with up to 25 cm expected Much of southwest Saskatchewan, including Regina, is under a snowfall warning on Friday, with total amounts of 10 to 25 centimetres expected. Report shows more girls getting involved in sports, local program creates landscape to continue trend A Regina program has created a landscape to encourage more girls to get involved in sports while building their self-esteem. Saskatoon Why isn't Saskatoon's new downtown shelter open yet? Saskatoon's new downtown shelter must undergo renovations before it can open, according to the operator of the site. Sask. principal has sexual assault conviction overturned in light of 'butt-grabbing game' A Saskatchewan principal sentenced to six months behind bars for sexual assault has another chance to prove he’s the victim of a middle-school prank that escalated out of control. 'What about our spirituality?': Sask. man wants new Lighthouse operator to respect Indigenous culture A Saskatoon man is concerned about an Alberta non-profit coming into the city to open a new shelter and run the Lighthouse. Vancouver Trump supporters review-bomb B.C. floral shop by accident A small business owner from B.C.’s Fraser Valley is speaking out after being review-bombed by confused supporters of U.S. president-elect Donald Trump this week. Grey Cup streaker fined $10K, banned from BC Place The woman who ran across the field wearing nothing but her shoes at last weekend’s Grey Cup has been given a fine and banned from BC Place. No criminality in school bus crash in B.C.'s Cariboo region, RCMP say An investigation into the school bus crash near Lac La Hache, B.C., earlier this year that left dozens of people hurt and one Good Samaritan dead has concluded the incident was nothing more than a tragic accident, the RCMP revealed Friday. Vancouver Island Campbell River high school closed due to fire Carihi Secondary school in Campbell River is closed due to a fire on the property overnight – drawing a firefighting response from multiple departments and a crowd of onlookers. Grey Cup streaker fined $10K, banned from BC Place The woman who ran across the field wearing nothing but her shoes at last weekend’s Grey Cup has been given a fine and banned from BC Place. Ship strikes kill thousands of whales. A study of hot spots could map out solutions A study of hot spots for collisions between ships and whales around the world, including Canadian waters, offers a map for measures to prevent the deadly strikes that could drive some species to extinction, one of the British Columbia-based authors says. Kelowna Man in hospital following targeted shooting in Kamloops Police are appealing for information on a targeted shooting that resulted in the hospitalization of a man in Kamloops. Police cleared of fault in fatal 2023 crash in B.C.'s Interior British Columbia's independent police watchdog has cleared officers of wrongdoing in a crash where three people were killed south of Kamloops in July of last year. B.C. woman sentenced for stealing $14K in funds raised for schoolkids A B.C. woman who stole more than $14,000 in volunteer-raised funds that were supposed to be spent on school supplies and programs – including hot meals for vulnerable kids – won't spend any time in jail. 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OAKLAND — The plea deal for a Vallejo man who killed his former friend during an encounter near a West Oakland skate park has gone through as planned, but not until after the victim’s family decried it as an injustice. “I believe you should be given 25-years-to-life,” the cousin of Andrew Tavares, who was shot and killed in 2022 , told Vallejo resident Sean Struckus just before Struckus was sentenced. She later added, “I’m a firm believer that karma exists and comes around in different ways. May you be haunted by Andrew’s spirit and live with your demons to the fullest.” Initially charged with murder, Struckus was recently allowed to plead no contest to voluntary manslaughter in Tavares’ death. He was formally sentenced on Oct. 30 to three years in prison as part of a plea deal with Alameda County prosecutors, court records show. Struckus was released from jail within days of being sentenced, after a judge found that he’d served most of it while awaiting a resolution in his case, court records show. Struckus and Tavares had been friends and were both involved in the local graffiti scene, but had a falling out shortly before the April 26, 2022 shooting. On that night, Tavares and friends had stopped their car in West Oakland when Struckus showed up and killed Tavares after a brief confrontation, according to police. When he was arrested, Struckus allegedly tried to blame another tagger and denied involvement in the shooting, according to a transcript of the preliminary hearing. Witnesses later told authorities that Tavares had a gun in his possession, leading to Struckus’ attorney to raise a self-defense theory. Tavares’ mother said that was all “lies” that left her “devastated.” She said she doesn’t believe it was an accident or self-defense. Similarly, Tavares’ cousin blamed the deal on “politics.” “(Andrew) was a part of our family and was deeply loved and will always be missed beyond words. Andrew had a kind heart and a generous spirit and he brought light into our lives,” Tavares’ mom, Dana Adona, said at the hearing. “There is nothing in this world that can change the love we feel for him or the emptiness left by his absence.”Quebec Premier François Legault says he’s looking at ways to end prayer in public places, including parks, as his government promises to table new legislation to strengthen secularism in schools. Legault made the comments during a press conference in Quebec City on Friday to mark the end of the fall legislative session. He said he wants to send a “very clear message to Islamists” that Quebec will fight against any disrespect of its fundamental values, including secularism. The premier said that recent reports of teachers allowing prayers in classrooms and preventing girls from playing sports, which have triggered an outcry in Quebec, are “totally unacceptable.” “There are teachers who are bringing Islamist religious concepts into Quebec schools,” he said. “I will definitely not tolerate that. We don’t want that in Quebec.” Legault then went a step further when asked by a reporter if he was also bothered by prayer in public places. “Seeing people on their knees in the streets, praying, I think we have to ask ourselves the question. I don’t think it’s something we should see,” he said, adding that his government is considering whether it can legislate on the issue. He went on to say he doesn’t want to see people praying “in public parks or public streets.” When questioned about the constitutionality of banning public prayer, he said the government is “looking at all possibilities, including the use of the notwithstanding clause,” which allows governments to override certain sections of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Images of Muslims praying in Montreal have sparked controversy in recent months, including when a group gathered in a city park to celebrate Eid al-Adha last June, prompting the borough mayor to muse about banning all religious events in public parks. In a statement, the Canadian Muslim Forum said Legault’s comments suggest that some politicians view Muslims as second-class citizens. “These remarks add to a pattern of political rhetoric that unfairly targets Quebecers, especially those of Muslim faith, based solely on their backgrounds,” the statement reads. Legault’s comments come as the province grapples with a series of reports about Muslim religious practices appearing in some of the province’s public schools. On Friday, Education Minister Bernard Drainville declared the government will introduce a new bill aimed at reinforcing secularism in Quebec schools. The announcement followed a Friday report in La Presse that documented students at a high school in Laval, north of Montreal, praying in classrooms and hallways and disrupting a play focused on sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy prevention. Drainville told reporters in Quebec City that the behaviour does not represent “our Quebec” and is “completely intolerable and unacceptable.” “These acts of a religious nature clearly contravene secularism obligations,” he said in a social media statement. “One can easily imagine the psychological impact that some of these behaviours may have had on students.” The news story is the latest in a growing number of incidents reported at Quebec schools involving Muslim teachers and students. The wave of allegations was sparked by a government investigation, made public in October, that found a toxic climate at a Montreal elementary school. The report found that a group of teachers at Bedford school, mostly of North African descent, yelled at and humiliated students. Some teachers didn’t believe in learning disabilities and attributed students’ difficulties to laziness. Subjects like science and sex education were either ignored or barely taught, and girls were prevented from playing soccer. Eleven teachers have since been suspended from the school. The government is now looking into 17 schools it believes may have breached the province’s secularism law. The report on those schools is expected in January, but Drainville says he can already confirm that the government is going to act. Quebec used the notwithstanding clause to shield the province’s controversial secularism law, Bill 21, from constitutional challenges. That law prevents certain public sector workers, including teachers and police officers, from wearing religious symbols on the job. The government also invoked the clause to protect its contentious language law, Bill 96. On Friday, Legault said the protection of Quebec’s identity has been one of his top priorities over the last year and repeated his claims that temporary immigration is threatening the French language in Montreal. He also reiterated that he’s “open” to the idea of a Quebec constitution, following a recent recommendation from a committee tasked with coming up with ways to boost Quebec’s autonomy. He said a constitution could enshrine Quebec’s values, including secularism and equality between men and women.WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden faces a stark choice as he contemplates broad preemptive pardons to protect aides and allies from potential retribution by Donald Trump: Does he hew to the institutional norms he’s spent decades defending or flex the powers of the presidency in untested ways? The deliberations so far are largely at the level of White House lawyers. But the president discussed the topic with senior aides, according to two people familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss. No decisions have been made, the people said, and it is possible Biden opts to do nothing at all. President Joe Biden speaks Thursday during a tree-lighting ceremony on the Ellipse near the White House in Washington. Biden is taking the idea seriously and has been thinking about it for as much as six months — before the presidential election — but has been concerned about the precedent it would set, according to another person familiar with the president’s discussions who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. Pardons are historically afforded to those accused of specific crimes — and usually to those who have already been convicted of an offense — but Biden’s team is considering issuing them for some who have not even been investigated, let alone charged. The president could, if he chooses, issue blanket pardons to specific people whom Trump and his allies threatened to punish. Or he could pardon a broad class of people — not unlike pardons issued to those convicted of federal marijuana offenses or those ensnared in the “don't ask, don't tell” military policies. A federal judge rebuked President Joe Biden's pardon for his son, Hunter, who the president claims was unfairly prosecuted. Either way, he'd be using the powers of the presidency in a new way. Some worry that Trump and his allies, who talked of enemies lists and exacting “retribution,” could launch investigations that would be reputationally and financially costly for targeted people even if they don’t result in prosecutions. Biden already extended a broad pardon to his son, Hunter , who was convicted and pleaded guilty in tax and gun cases. He explained that decision by saying he believed the prosecution of his son was poisoned by politics. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Friday that Biden plans additional pardons before leaving office, though she would not elaborate on the process. She referenced “changing factors” that motivated the president to pardon his son despite promising he wouldn’t. She said Republicans continued to try to see Hunter Biden investigated for an array of alleged offenses, a rationale that could support additional pardons for Biden aides and allies. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaks Friday during the daily briefing at the White House in Washington. It was two weeks ago that one of the president’s closest allies in Congress, Rep, Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, encouraged Biden to pardon his son Hunter. The morning after that conversation, Clyburn told Biden’s staff that he believed the president should also pardon those being targeted by Trump. “I was very forceful in my discussions with him about what I thought he ought to do regarding his son,” Clyburn said Friday. “But I also told them that I thought he ought to go even further, because all the noise about Jack Smith and Liz Cheney and Doctor Fauci and all of that.” Special Counsel Jack Smith has been investigating Trump for his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election and for accusations he hoarded classified documents at his home. Liz Cheney, a conservative Republican , was the vice chairwoman of the congressional committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection and campaigned for Vice President Kamala Harris. Fauci, an infectious-disease expert, was instrumental in the government's response to the coronavirus. All raised the ire of Trump. President-elect Donald Trump criticized President Joe Biden's decision to pardon Hunter Biden for federal gun and tax convictions, calling it a "miscarriage of justice." Trump highlighted individuals imprisoned for the January 6th Capitol riots, questioning whether they were included in Biden's pardon. Trump suggested he might consider pardoning Hunter Biden during an interview in October, expressing concern over its impact on the country. Hunter Biden's pardon prevents significant prison time, as he faced nearly forty years for gun and tax-related convictions. Clyburn said he told Biden’s team, only half jokingly, that because the Supreme Court already said the president has certain immunities, “let’s give that same immunity to Jack Smith for carrying out his duties and to, Doctor Fauci, Liz Cheney, they were carrying out their duties.” Among those mentioned publicly for possible presidential pardons, there are different sentiments on whether pardons would even be wanted. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi supported the president’s move to pardon his son, but was silent on the speculation that Biden is considering additional pardons for her or others. A top Pelosi ally, Rep. Adam Schiff, the Democratic congressman who led Trump’s first impeachment, panned the idea of pardoning Biden's allies. He says “the courts are strong enough to withstand” the worst of Trump’s threats. “I don’t think a preemptive pardon makes sense,” the incoming senator told NPR recently. “I would urge the president not to do that. I think it would seem defensive and unnecessary,” Schiff said. Several people on President-elect Donald Trump's team are reportedly supporting efforts to make an Edward Snowden pardon happen. Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin, the lead manager on Trump’s second impeachment on the charge of inciting the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol, said the speech and debate clause in the Constitution already protects members of Congress from prosecution for participating in their legislative duties. Raskin said figures like Mark Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and John Kelly , Trump's former White House chief of staff, would similarly be protected by the First Amendment. Still, Raskin said the question is, “Should they go through the criminal investigation and prosecution for not doing anything wrong? I think that’s why this whole issue has erupted.” Raksin added that with Trump promising to pardon hundreds of people who assaulted police officers on Jan. 6, “I can hardly fault President Biden for exploring the use of the pardon to protect people from a fraudulent and unjust prosecution.” House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said he’s had no conversations with the White House regarding any preemptive pardons for current or former members of Congress. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) President Joe Biden walks to the Oval Office after attending the House Democratic Caucus Issues Conference, Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris and running mate Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz arrive during a campaign rally at Desert Diamond Arena, Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) A delegate looks at her phone during the Republican National Convention Wednesday, July 17, 2024, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) Jocardo Ralston, 47, from Pennsylvania, looks up to a television to watch the presidential debate between President Joe Biden and Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at Tillie's Lounge on Thursday, June 27, 2024, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster) Supporters of Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump look on as a bus carrying Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris passes by following a campaign event, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, in Rochester, Pa. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) Attendees look on at a campaign rally for Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris, Friday, Oct. 25, 2024, in Houston. (AP Photo/Annie Mulligan) Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris arrives to speak on the final day of the Democratic National Convention, Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gestures as he arrives at the Republican National Convention Wednesday, July 17, 2024, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally at PPG Paints Arena, Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, in Pittsburgh, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris, left, and former first lady Michelle Obama arrive to speak during a campaign rally, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024 at the Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo, Mich. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) A supporter greets Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump after a campaign event at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) A political advertisement for Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris is displayed on the Sphere, Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher) Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris walks toward reporters to speak before boarding Air Force Two, as she departs Las Vegas from Harry Reid International Airport, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, en route to Arizona. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) A voter works on her ballot at a polling place at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, in Simi Valley, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello) Former President Donald Trump waits for the start of proceedings in Manhattan criminal court, Tuesday, April 23, 2024, in New York. Before testimony resumes Tuesday, the judge will hold a hearing on prosecutors' request to sanction and fine Trump over social media posts they say violate a gag order prohibiting him from attacking key witnesses. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura, Pool) Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump dances after speaking at a campaign event Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024, in Savannah, Ga. (AP Photo/John Bazemore) Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris looks at a monitor of the event from backstage, just before taking the stage for her final campaign rally, Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump is prayed over with Pastor Paula White during the National Faith Summit at Worship With Wonders Church, Monday, Oct. 28, 2024, in Powder Springs, Ga. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson) Forgiato Blow wears a necklace with a likeness of former President Donald Trump before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign event at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) Elon Musk jumps on the stage as Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Voters stand in line outside a polling place at Madison Church, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, in Phoenix, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt York) Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris hugs President Biden during the Democratic National Convention Monday, Aug. 19, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast) Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at Lee's Family Forum, Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024, in Henderson, Nev. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump is reflected in the bullet proof glass as he finishes speaking at a campaign rally in Lititz, Pa., Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris, bottom center, greets supporters after speaking during a campaign rally Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024 at the Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo, Mich. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign rally outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum) A young girl holds a "Black Voters for Harris-Walz" sign outside of Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris' election night watch party at Howard University, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams) Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris, left, shares a laugh with second gentleman Doug Emhoff, after reuniting in Pittsburgh, Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, aboard Air Force Two, just before taking off from Pittsburgh for her final campaign rally in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool) With tears streaming down her face, a supporter of Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris applauds as Harris delivers a concession speech after the 2024 presidential election, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, on the campus of Howard University in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) Bikers show their support for President-elect Donald Trump while riding on I-84, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, near Lords Valley, Pa. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump stands on stage with steelworkers as he speaks during a campaign rally at Arnold Palmer Regional Airport, Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024, in Latrobe, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Supporters cheer as Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign event, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024, in Erie, Pa. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris appears on NBC's "Saturday Night Live," with Maya Rudolph, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024 in New York. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) A delegate wearing a small American flag on his ear watches as Republican presidential candidate and former president, Donald Trump, speaks during the final day of the Republican National Convention Thursday, July 18, 2024, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya) Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris hugs a child after speaking during a campaign event at Washington Crossing Historic Park, in Washington Crossing, Pa., Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) President Joe Biden pauses before he addresses the nation from the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Wednesday, July 24, 2024, about his decision to drop his Democratic presidential reelection bid. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, Pool) Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump departs after speaking at a campaign event at the Butler Farm Show, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) A voter watches the stage before former first lady Michelle Obama speaks at campaign rally in support of Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris, Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2024, in College Park, Ga. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson) Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris shake hands before the start of an ABC News presidential debate at the National Constitution Center, Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump arrives at an election night watch party at the Palm Beach Convention Center, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.