777pub taya Nissan and Honda plan merger that would create world’s 3rd-largest automakerBy MARY CLARE JALONICK and MATT BROWN WASHINGTON (AP) — Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Defense Department, said he had a “wonderful conversation” with Maine Sen. Susan Collins on Wednesday as he pushed to win enough votes for confirmation. He said he will not back down after allegations of excessive drinking and sexual misconduct. Related Articles National Politics | Donald Trump will ring the New York Stock Exchange bell. It’ll be a first for him National Politics | The Trump and Biden teams insist they’re working hand in glove on foreign crises National Politics | ‘You don’t know what’s next.’ International students scramble ahead of Trump inauguration National Politics | Trump is threatening to raise tariffs again. Here’s how China plans to fight back National Politics | Trump won’t be able to save the struggling US beef industry Collins said after the hourlong meeting that she questioned Hegseth about the allegations amid reports of drinking and the revelation that he made a settlement payment after being accused of a sexual assault that he denies. She said she had a “good, substantive” discussion with Hegseth and “covered a wide range of topics,” including sexual assault in the military, Ukraine and NATO. But she said she would wait until a hearing, and notably a background check, to make a decision. “I asked virtually every question under the sun,” Collins told reporters as she left her office after the meeting. “I pressed him both on his position on military issues as well as the allegations against him, so I don’t think there was anything that we did not cover.” The meeting with Collins was closely watched as she is seen as more likely than most of her Republican Senate colleagues to vote against some of Trump’s Cabinet picks. She and Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski, a fellow moderate Republican, did not shy from opposing Trump in his first term when they wanted to do so and sometimes supported President Joe Biden’s nominees for the judicial and executive branches. And Hegseth, an infantry combat veteran and former “Fox & Friends” weekend host, is working to gain as many votes as he can as some senators have expressed concerns about his personal history and lack of management experience. “I’m certainly not going to assume anything about where the senator stands,” Hegseth said as he left Collins’ office. “This is a process that we respect and appreciate. And we hope, in time, overall, when we get through that committee and to the floor that we can earn her support.” Hegseth met with Murkowski on Tuesday. He has also been meeting repeatedly with Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, a military veteran who has said she is a survivor of sexual assault and has spent time in the Senate working on improving how attacks are reported and prosecuted within the ranks. On Monday, Ernst said after a meeting with him that he had committed to selecting a senior official to prioritize those goals. Republicans will have a 53-49 majority next year, meaning Trump cannot lose more than three votes on any of his nominees. It is so far unclear whether Hegseth will have enough support, but Trump has stepped up his pressure on senators in the last week. “Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!” Trump posted on his social media platform last week.State unemployment rate remains at 3.7% in November amid slow tracking of lost jobs in western NC

An inspirational schoolteacher who dropped ten dress sizes has performed a sponsored skydive in aid of her students. Daredevil technology teacher, Gemma Morgan achieved the amazing feat at Hibaldstow Skydive Centre with the aim of providing her students with a memorable Prom Night at the end of the summer term. Gemma, 41, who teaches at Ormiston Maritime Academy in Grimsby jumped out of a plane at 15,000 feet to raise money in support of students at the Year 11 Prom. She said she wanted to make it a night to remember. Gemma said as the school, part of Ormiston Academies Trust, looks to celebrate a year of hard work and dedication for its Year 11 cohort, the end of year prom is a well-deserved celebration bringing students and friends together as they remember their time together. She has gone one step further as part of creating exciting memories for her students, completing an exhilarating sky dive to raise money which goes towards support the celebration, including a glamourous venue, decorations, and delicious food. As the students prepare to take their GCSEs and next steps in education, Prom night will be an exciting festivity to look forward to. She went through a gastric sleeve operation this year which has enabled her to drop her weight from 22 stones and she is now ten dresses sizes less and fits into a size 14 comfortably, told Gemma. Gemma Morgan has undergone an impressive weight loss journey (Image: Submitted) She said: "Ormiston maritime Academy is a brilliant school and I love being part of it. It is not in an affluent area and I wanted to make sure they have the best decorations and venue and have a wonderful time." She added: "I am so proud of all our Year 11 students for their hard work and commitment over the past year, and I know they are all super excited for their upcoming prom as a chance to celebrate their success and memories at Ormiston Maritime Academy together. "I thought a sky dive would be an exciting way to show my support and encouragement for all their hard work, but also a fun way to help raise some additional money to make their Prom an amazing evening – and I am so glad I did it! I’m really excited to see all their dedication pay off and to celebrate their achievements at a fabulous Prom in the summer!” Gemma Morgan achieved the amazing feat at Hibaldstow Skydive Centre (Image: Submitted) Gemma added: "It is wonderful to now be able to run after my kids and play with them and run up the stairs without getting out of breath. There is now a feeling of being comfortable in my own skin and living life to the full." Gemma has raised nearly £70 and urged anyone who wishes to support the Prom appeal to get in touch with the school.

NoneWASHINGTON — The House passed a $895 billion measure Wednesday that authorizes a 1% increase in defense spending this fiscal year and would give a double-digit pay raise to about half of the enlisted service members in the military. The bill is traditionally strongly bipartisan, but some Democratic lawmakers opposed the inclusion of a ban on transgender medical treatments for children of military members if such treatment could result in sterilization. The bill passed by a vote of 281-140 and next moves to the Senate, where lawmakers sought a bigger boost in defense spending than the current measure allows. The Pentagon and the surrounding area is seen Jan. 26, 2020, from the air in Washington. Lawmakers are touting the bill's 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5% increase for others as key to improving the quality of life for those serving in the U.S. military. Those serving as junior enlisted personnel are in pay grades that generally track with their first enlistment term. Lawmakers said service member pay failed to remain competitive with the private sector, forcing many military families to rely on food banks and government assistance programs to put food on the table. The bill also provides significant new resources for child care and housing. "No service member should have to live in squalid conditions and no military family should have to rely on food stamps to feed their children, but that's exactly what many of our service members are experiencing, especially the junior enlisted," said Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. "This bill goes a long way to fixing that." The bill sets key Pentagon policy that lawmakers will attempt to fund through a follow-up appropriations bill. The overall spending tracks the numbers established in a 2023 agreement that then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., reached with President Joe Biden to increase the nation's borrowing authority and avoid a federal default in exchange for spending restraints. Many senators wanted to increase defense spending about $25 billion above what was called for in that agreement, but those efforts failed. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., who is expected to serve as the next chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said the overall spending level was a "tremendous loss for our national defense," though he agreed with many provisions in the bill. "We need to make a generational investment to deter the Axis of Aggressors. I will not cease work with my congressional colleagues, the Trump administration, and others until we achieve it," Wicker said. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., speaks with reporters Nov. 21 on Capitol Hill in Washington. House Republicans don't want to go above the McCarthy-Biden agreement for defense spending and are looking to go way below it for many nondefense programs. They are also focused on cultural issues. The bill prohibits funding for teaching critical race theory in the military and prohibits TRICARE health plans from covering gender dysphoria treatment for children under 18 if that treatment could result in sterilization. Rep. Adam Smith of Washington state, the ranking Democratic member of the House Armed Services Committee, said minors dealing with gender dysphoria is a "very real problem." He said the treatments available, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy, proved effective at helping young people dealing with suicidal thoughts, anxiety and depression. "These treatments changed their lives and in many cases saved their lives," Smith said. "And in this bill, we decided we're going to bar service members' children from having access to that." Smith said the number of minors in service member families receiving transgender medical care extends into the thousands. He could have supported a study asking medical experts to determine whether such treatments are too often used, but a ban on health insurance coverage went too far. He said Speaker Mike Johnson's office insisted on the ban and said the provision "taints an otherwise excellent piece of legislation." Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, called the ban a step in the right direction, saying, "I think these questions need to be pulled out of the debate of defense, so we can get back to the business of defending the United States of America without having to deal with social engineering debates." Smith said he agrees with Roy that lawmakers should be focused on the military and not on cultural conflicts, "and yet, here it is in this bill." House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., responds to reporters Dec. 6 during his weekly news conference at the Capitol in Washington. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, the House Democratic leader, said his team did not tell Democrats how to vote on the bill. "There's a lot of positive things in the National Defense Authorization Act that were negotiated in a bipartisan way, and there are some troubling provisions in a few areas as well," Jeffries said. The defense policy bill also looks to strengthen deterrence against China. It calls for investing $15.6 billion to build military capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The Biden administration requested about $10 billion. On Israel, the bill, among other things, includes an expansion of U.S. joint military exercises with Israel and a prohibition on the Pentagon citing casualty data from Hamas. The defense policy bill is one of the final measures that lawmakers view as a must-pass before making way for a new Congress in January. Rising threats from debt collectors against members of the U.S. armed forces are undermining national security, according to data from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a federal watchdog that protects consumer rights. To manage the impact of financial stress on individual performance, the Defense Department dedicates precious resources to improving financial literacy, so service members know the dangers of notorious no-credit-check loans. “The financial well-being of service members and their families is one of the Department’s top priorities,” said Andrew Cohen, the director of financial readiness in the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense at the Pentagon. But debt collectors are gaining ground. Last quarter, debt collection complaints by U.S. military service members increased 24% , and attempts to collect on “debts not owed” surged 40%. Complaints by service members against debt collectors for deceptive practices ballooned from 1,360 in the fourth quarter of 2023 to 1,833 in the first quarter of 2024. “There’s a connection between the financial readiness and the readiness of a service member to perform their duty,” said Jim Rice, Assistant Director, Office of Servicemember Affairs at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Laws exist to protect the mission readiness of U.S. troops from being compromised by threats and intimidation, but debt collectors appear to be violating them at an alarming pace. “If they’re threatening to call your commander or get your security clearance revoked, that’s illegal,” says Deborah Olvera, financial readiness manager at Wounded Warriors Project, and a military spouse who’s been harassed herself by a collection agency that tried to extort money from her for a debt she didn’t owe. But after she requested the name of the original creditor, she never heard from them again. “The financial well-being of service members and their families is one of the Department’s top priorities.” —Andrew Cohen, Director of Financial Readiness at the Pentagon Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, it’s illegal for debt collectors to threaten to contact your boss or have you arrested because it violates your financial privacy. The FDCPA also prohibits debt collectors from making false, deceptive, or misleading representations in connection with the collection of a debt, even for borrowers with bad credit scores. But according to the data, debt collectors are increasingly ignoring those rules. “Debt collection continues to be one of the top consumer complaint categories,” said a spokesperson at the Federal Trade Commission. The commission released a report earlier this year revealing that consumers were scammed $10 billion in 2023, a new benchmark for fraud losses. In his book Debt: The First 5,000 Years, David Graeber argues that debt often creates a relationship that can feel more oppressive than systems of hierarchy, like slavery or caste systems because it starts by presuming equality between the debtor and the creditor. When the debtor falls into arrears, that equality is then destroyed. This sense of betrayal and the subsequent imbalance of power leads to widespread resentment toward lenders. Photo Credit: Olena Yakobchuk / Shutterstock The debt collector reportedly harassing military service members most was Resurgent Capital Services, a subsidiary of collection giant Sherman Financial Group. The company tacks on accrued interest and junk fees and tries to collect on debts purchased for pennies on the dollar from cable companies, hospitals, and credit card companies, among others. Sherman Financial Group is run by billionaire Benjamin Navarro, who has a reported net worth of $1.5 billion, according to Forbes. Sherman Financial also owns subprime lender Credit One Bank and LVNV Funding, which outsource collections to Resurgent Capital. According to CFPB data, the second worst offender is CL Holdings, the parent company of debt-buyer Jefferson Capital Systems. The company has also been named in numerous complaints to the Better Business Bureau for alleged violations of the FDCPA, such as failing to properly validate debts or update credit reports with accurate information. Under the leadership of CEO David Burton, Jefferson Capital Systems is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CompuCredit Corporation, which markets subprime credit cards under the names Aspire, Majestic, and others. The third most referenced debt collector is publicly traded Portfolio Recovery Associates [NASDAQ: PRAA], which was forced to pay $27 million in penalties for making false representations about debts, initiating lawsuits without proper documentation, and other violations. Portfolio Recovery Associates is run by CEO Vikram Atal. Fourth place for alleged worst offender goes to Encore Capital Group [NASDAQ ECPG], which was required to pay $42 million in consumer refunds and a $10 million penalty for violating the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. Encore collects under its subsidiary Midland Credit Management Group. These debt collectors all operate under a veritable shell game of company and brand names, almost none of which are disclosed on their websites, sending consumers on a wild goose chase to try and figure out how they’re related to each other. But despite their attempts to hide their tracks behind a smoke screen of subsidiaries, a leopard can’t change its spots, and the CFPB complaint database makes it harder for them to try. Photo Credit: Bumble Dee / Shutterstock Although widely considered a consumer-friendly state, complaints spiked most in California, which saw a 188% increase in complaints filed from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. California is home to 157,367 military personnel, making it the most populous state for active-duty service members. The second-largest increase in debt collection complaints was in Texas, which saw a 66% jump from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. The U.S. Department of Defense reports 111,005 service members stationed in the Lone Star State, which is the third-most populous state for active-duty military. The rising trends do not correlate to the number of military personnel by state. Complaints against debt collectors in Virginia, the second most populous state with 126,145 active duty personnel, decreased by 29% in the same quarter-over-quarter period. And complaints filed quarter-over-quarter in North Carolina, the fifth most populous state with 91,077 military personnel, decreased by 3% in the same period. The third largest percentage increase in debt collection complaints was from service members stationed in Maryland, where alleged harassment reports jumped 112% from the fourth quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. Maryland ranks number 12 with just 28,059 active duty service members. Fourth place goes to Ohio – the 28th most populous active-duty state – where complaints doubled, followed by Arizona – the 15th most populous military state – where complaints were up 70% in the same quarter-over-quarter period. Photo Credit: PeopleImages.com - Yuri A / Shutterstock In 2007, Congress passed the Military Lending Act to cap the cost of credit to a 36% annual percentage rate, inclusive of junk fees and late charges, for active duty military service members. That rate is still considerably higher than average credit card rates, which range from 8% for borrowers with excellent credit scores to as high as 36% for borrowers with bad credit. But lenders still get hauled into court for violating the MLA. Don Hankey, the billionaire subprime auto lender who funded Donald Trump’s $175 million appeal bond , is among those violators. His company, Westlake Financial, which markets high-interest car loans for bad credit, has been sued twice by the Department of Justice for harassing military service members. In 2017, the DoJ alleged Hankey’s Westlake Financial illegally repossessed at least 70 vehicles owned by military service members. Westlake Financial paid $700,000 to settle the charges. In 2022, Westlake Financial paid $250,000 for allegedly cheating U.S. troops out of interest rates they were legally entitled to. Westlake Financial continues to receive complaints from military service members alleging abusive debt collection practices on its no-credit-check loans. A steady year-over-year increase in the number of complaints filed against Westlake Financial continued from 2020 to 2023. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau data shows a 13% increase in the number of complaints against the company from 2020 to 2021, a 28% increase from 2021 to 2022, and a torrential 119% surge from 2022 to 2023. The numbers suggest systemic complaint-handling processes and inadequate customer service resources. Photo Credit: Cynthia Shirk / Shutterstock On May 16, 2024, a deceptively named predatory lending industry front group dubbed the Community Financial Services Association of America (CFSA) lost a legal attempt to defund the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. In an effort to deprive Americans of essential consumer protections, the lobby group argued that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s funding structure was unconstitutional. But the Supreme Court denied its claim. In a 7-2 ruling, the Court held that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s funding structure is indeed constitutional. That means the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau cannot be defunded, but it does not mean the agency cannot be defanged. The New York Times suggested that Hankey’s incentive to finance Trump’s $175 million bond could have been a reciprocity pledge to neuter the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau if Trump wins the upcoming U.S. presidential election. If Trump wins a second term, he could replace Consumer Financial Protection Bureau director Rohit Chopra, an American consumer advocate, with a predatory lending advocate. In 2020, the Trump Administration secured a Supreme Court ruling that made it easier for the president to fire the head of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The ruling struck down previous restrictions on when a president can fire the bureau’s director. Like other federal agencies, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has also been confronted for overstepping its bounds, pushing too far, and acting unfairly against entities it regulates. Photo Credit: Lux Blue / Shutterstock Seasonality and rising interest rates do not explain the increase in debt collection complaints from service members. The surge in complaints is not tied to predictable seasonal fluctuations or changes in interest rates. The increase in debt collection complaints by service members may point to underlying systemic issues, such as aggressive and predatory debt collection practices that exploit the unique financial vulnerabilities of service members, who face frequent relocations and deployments. Debt Complaints by Service Members The 24% spike in debt collection complaints exhibits no correlation to fluctuations in interest rates. 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rates Pandemic stimulus checks were also not a factor. COVID-19 relief benefit checks went through three major rounds during the pandemic. The final round of Economic Impact Payments went out in March 2021 . To better understand the rising trend of debt collection complaints, we calculated the increase in the total number of complaints and the percentage increase quarter-over-quarter. For example, New Jersey has the second largest percentage increase in complaints quarter-over-quarter, but the total number of complaints increased by just 16. The data for this study was sourced from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) complaint database. The dataset specifically targeted complaints filed by U.S. military service members, identified using the tag “Servicemember” within Q4 2023 and Q1 2024. Readers can find the detailed research methodology underlying this news story in the accompanying section here . For complete results, see U.S. Troops Face Mounting Threats from Predatory Debt Collectors on BadCredit.org . Homelessness reached record levels in 2023, as rents and home prices continued to rise in most of the U.S. One group was particularly impacted: people who have served in the U.S. military. "This time last year, we knew the nation was facing a deadly public health crisis," Jeff Olivet, executive director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, said in a statement about the 2023 numbers. He said the latest homelessness estimates from the Department of Housing and Urban Development "confirms the depth of the crisis." At least 35,000 veterans were experiencing homelessness in 2023, according to HUD. While that's about half of what it was in 2009—when the organization began collecting data—things have plateaued in recent years despite active efforts to get that number to zero. Although they make up just 6.6% of the total homeless population, veterans are more likely to be at risk of homelessness than Americans overall. Of every 10,000 Americans, 20 were experiencing homelessness. Of veterans living in the United States, that number jumps to 22, HUD data shows. Complicated by bureaucracy, family dynamics, and prejudice, the path from serving in the military to homelessness is a long one. According to a 2022 study by Yale School of Medicine researchers, homelessness typically occurs within four years of leaving the military, as veterans must contend with the harsh reality of finding a job in a world where employers struggle to see how skills on the battlefield transfer to a corporate environment. These days, veterans also deal with historically high rent and home prices, which causes many to rely on family generosity while figuring out a game plan. Stacker examined academic studies, analyzed government data, and spoke with members of the Biden administration, experts, and former members of the armed forces to see the struggles members of the military face when leaving the armed forces. The Department of Veterans Affairs offers transition assistance to the roughly 250,000 service members who leave each year. However, those programs can be burdensome and complex to navigate, especially for those who don't have a plan for post-military life. Only a small portion of veterans have jobs lined up when they leave, according to 2019 Pew Research. Many also choose to live with relatives until they get on their feet, which can be longer than anticipated. Some former service members are unsure what kind of career they'd like to pursue and may have to get further education or training, Carl Castro, director of the Military and Veteran Programs at the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work at the University of Southern California, told Stacker. "It takes years for that kind of transition," Castro said. Many have trouble finding a job after leaving the service, even if they are qualified. Some employers carry misconceptions about those who have served. A 2020 analysis from the journal Human Resource Management Review found that some veterans face hiring discrimination due to negative stereotypes that lead hiring managers to write them off as a poor culture fit. Underemployment, or working low-wage jobs below their skill level, is also an issue. While the unemployment rate for veterans was 3% in March 2024, a study released by Penn State at the end of 2023 found three years after leaving the service, 61% of veterans said they were underemployed because of perceived skill mismatches . This phenomenon can have long-term economic effects, and eventually, that frustration can boil over, strain relationships, and potentially lead to housing instability. Working, especially a low-wage job, is not protection against homelessness. A 2021 study from the University of Chicago found half of people living in homeless shelters and 2 in 5 unsheltered people were employed, full or part-time. High rents make it difficult to save up, even when applying for a VA loan—a mortgage backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs that typically has more favorable terms. While the VA does not require a downpayment, some lenders, who ultimately provide the loan, do. They're not entirely risk-free either, and veterans can still lose their homes if they are unable to keep up with their mortgages. In November 2023, the VA put a six-month pause on foreclosures when an NPR investigation found thousands of veterans were in danger of losing their homes after a COVID forbearance program ended. Biden officials pointed to high rents and the end of COVID-era housing restrictions like eviction moratoriums to explain the spike in Americans experiencing homelessness. In the last year, homelessness rose 12%—to more than 650,000 people—the highest level since data began being collected in 2007. Overall, more than half of people experiencing homelessness in 2023 live in states with high living costs. Most were in California, followed by New York and Florida. Western states, including Montana and Utah, experienced massive population growth during the pandemic, becoming hubs for remote workers who drove home prices and rents even further. For veterans, housing costs certainly play a role, but those who leave the military also face systemic barriers. "It's worrying there are people that continue to fall through the cracks," said Jeanette Yih Harvie, a research associate at Syracuse University's D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families. Just under a quarter of adults experiencing homelessness have a severe mental illness , according to 2022 HUD survey data. They are also likely to have chronic illnesses but are unable to maintain preventative care, which only exacerbates these problems. Veterans facing homelessness are more likely to have experienced trauma , either before or after joining the military, according to Yale researchers who analyzed the 2019-2020 National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study. Childhood trauma was among the most significant commonalities among vets who become homeless. Substance use disorder is also widespread and can indicate an undiagnosed mental illness . Racial and ethnic disparities are at play, too. A 2023 study in the Journal of Psychiatric Research showed that Hispanic and Black veterans were more likely to screen positive for PTSD, and Hispanic veterans were more likely to report having suicidal ideation. Overall, access to mental health care has improved in the last decade or so. In December 2023, the VA announced it would open nine additional counseling centers. However, the stigma of getting help remains, especially after years of being conditioned to be self-reliant and pull oneself up by their bootstraps. That help, in the form of public policy, is slowly working to catch up to the need. In 2023, the Biden administration invested millions into research programs and studies on suicide prevention by the VA office in addition to a proposed $16 billion to improve quality and lower-cost mental health care services for veterans. And, in February of this year, HUD and the VA announced they would give up to $14 million in vouchers to public housing agencies for veterans experiencing homelessness. The program would also offer case management and other services. Still, with a culture that pushes people to keep going, it can be challenging for servicemembers to take advantage of these opportunities, Harvie said. "When you've been doing that for the last 15 or 20 years, it's difficult to stop and say, 'I'm the person that needs help.'" Story editing by Kelly Glass. Copy editing by Kristen Wegrzyn. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.

Bluesky finds with growth comes growing pains — and botsIn celebration of Qatar National Day and to commemorate its 50th anniversary, Commercial Bank rolled out a series of impactful corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Commercial Bank has long demonstrated solidarity with the wider community in Qatar, especially on Qatar National Day, and expressed the importance of inclusion and accessibility. In line with its vision, the Bank launched an array of activities and gift distribution initiatives across several institutions including Qatar Academy Al Wakra, Moza Bint Mohammed Girls School, AlManar International School, and Al-Hedayah for Special Needs and The Rehabilitation for Girls & The Education Center to foster a shared sense of joy and belonging amongst all children alike. The bank also extended its visit to include several Commercial Bank Malls branches, namely, Villaggio Mall, Doha Festival City, City Centre, Dar Al Salam, and Vendome Mall CB Premium Lounge. Commercial Bank Group Chief Executive Officer Joseph Abraham said: “Our strategic approach has always centred around the advancement of our great Nation. Today, we not only celebrate the Bank’s 50th anniversary but also Qatar National Day. These initiatives reaffirm our commitment to the growth of Qatar and well-being of its citizens.” To further celebrate Qatar National Day, the entire plaza at Commercial Bank was transformed into the vibrant colours of Qatar’s flag, with national day themed songs playing in the background. Staff members were offered a unique opportunity to connect with Qatar’s rich cultural heritage by creating their own traditional perfumes. Hussein al-Abdulla, executive general manager (Marketing and CB Real Estate) of Commercial Bank, said: “Commercial Bank has played an integral role in Qatar’s development, particularly, in community engagement. Giving back to society reflects our fundamental values and underscores our enduring commitment to creating a brighter future for all. We look forward to supporting Qatar on its journey towards sustainable development and prosperity for all its people.” Related Story QCS initiative enables children with cancer take part in QND celebrations QSWF participates in Unesco's Global Forum against Racism and Discrimination

The Carolina Panthers are back from their bye this Sunday and will host the two-time defending champion Kansas City Chiefs in one of their toughest matchups on the schedule. Kansas City's defense is fifth in yards allowed and eighth in points allowed this season. They're especially stout against the run, allowing the third-fewest yards per game in the NFL. The Panthers' offense had one of their better performances last time out against the Giants in Munich. The Chiefs are a much better defense but the Panthers will be getting some reinforcements in the backfield this week to help against the defending champions. Rookie running back Jonathon Brooks was activated from the injured reserve list on Nov. 6 and that move required the Panthers to activate him within the next 21 days. Here's the latest on his status for Week 12. Is Jonathan Brooks playing? Yes. Both Carolina coach Dave Canales and Brooks confirmed on Monday that he will make his NFL debut on Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs. NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more. "I'm excited just to be able to get back on the field and play a game that I love," Brooks said. "It's truly a blessing just to be able to get back out there and be 100% and be able to play football again." Canales clarified his role for Sunday on Friday afternoon. Chuba Hubbard, the NFL's fourth-leading rusher entering Week 12, will remain the starter but Brooks will not be limited in any way. If Hubbard gets injured or has to miss time for any reason, Brooks will step up to be the lead back. "[Hubbard] will go but we'll get Brooks out there," Canales said. Carolina Panthers rushing stats With Hubbard in the lead role, the Panthers are averaging more than 100 rushing yards per game. Hubbard's scored six rushing touchdowns in addition to his 818 yards this season. Here's how the team ranks league-wide: Panthers RB depth chart Hubbard will remain the No. 1 running back this week with Brooks behind him. Here's how the rest of the depth chart looks: Running backs Dillon Johnson and Mike Boone are also signed to the Panthers' practice squad.The Future of Recording Meetings, Calls, and More Is Here and You Can Get It for $100Mythwrecked: Ambrosia Island is like a lot of the games I’m most likely to pick up. It’s got a soothing, whitewashed color palette. The characters seem to be queer. And the gameplay includes a lot of environmental puzzles and jogging around, picking stuff up. It’s perfect for me. But by those metrics, so are a lot of games. So I expected some genre familiarity when I booted it up for the first time. But in reality, Mythwrecked is a breath of fresh air for the genre of chill, cozy role-playing games. Developed by Polygon Treehouse (no relation) and published by Whitethorn Games, Mythwrecked puts the player in the position of Alex, who gets shipwrecked on a mysterious island that’s inexplicably home to a handful of Greek gods who have no idea who they are or what they’re doing there. While it’s clear that Alex is motivated to get home at first, as she starts running into gods like Hermes, Zeus, Hera, and Aphrodite, she becomes dedicated to helping them recover their memories by doing them favors and finding their lost mementos around the island. With each round of completed favors and returned items, Alex becomes better friends with the gods — who are generally painted in quite a generous light — and she learns more about how they forgot everything about themselves. It’s always fun to see a new retelling of Greek myths, especially when that retelling makes Athena nonbinary, turtlenecked, and blue-haired; Aphrodite short and curvy; and Hephaestus jacked, red-headed, and using a wheelchair. But the fun of Mythwrecked isn’t just in the story, which smartly has an end point when you get to level 3 for each of the eight gods. It’s also in the game mechanics — a huge reason it broke through the piles of cozy games I’ve played recently. Each god gives you a powerful object you can use to restore the island’s lights, windmills, and statues, delightfully complicated by environmental puzzles and locked doors. Beeping radar leads you to buried and hidden mementos; it’s up to you to sort out which god the memento belongs to, either using your real-life knowledge of these gods, or by getting a clue from the talking statue on the island. The gameplay might be too simplistic or repetitive for a game that goes on for tens of hours, but Mythwrecked doesn’t overstay its welcome — in fact, perhaps the opposite. (Lately I’ve been moseying around the island, collecting ambrosia fruit, just to play a little longer.) Each progression of the story is meaningfully linked to the puzzles you solved, and the game ultimately ends after about 10 hours of play, if you don’t dilly-dally like I’ve been doing. It’s just a good stand-alone game you can crush in a weekend — a subgenre of games I really value in the days of infinitely playable AAA games. Even some cozy games demand hundreds of hours of my time, and I often give it to them, willingly. But Mythwrecked is just as long as its story requires — with a little extra room for godly shenanigans, like any good Greek myth. Mythwrecked: Ambrosia Island is now available on Nintendo Switch, Windows PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X. The game was reviewed on PC and ROG Ally X using a download code provided by Whitethorn Games. Vox Media has affiliate partnerships. These do not influence editorial content, though Vox Media may earn commissions for products purchased via affiliate links. You can find additional information about Polygon’s ethics policy here . Fantasy Gaming Impressions

Cloud API Market Poised for Rapid Growth at 20.3% CAGR Through 2026: Allied Market ResearchTHE script for the much-awaited ZIFA elections took an unexpected twist yesterday with revelations that the decision by the Electoral Committee to bar four candidates from contesting the upcoming association presidential elections could be challenged in court. This comes as some of the candidates touted among the favourites fell at the first hurdle after failing to meet the stringent edibility criteria as set by the new ZIFA statutes. The quartet of outspoken former legislator Themba Mliswa, Farai Jere, Walter Magaya, and ex-national team captain Benjani Mwaruwari will not play any further part, according to a statement released by the ZIFA Normalisation Committee yesterday. This leaves six candidates in contention for the association’s hot seat, and these are veteran football administrator Martin Kweza, former footballer Makwinji Soma-Phiri, ex-ZIFA board member Philemon Machana, former Premier Soccer League chairman Twine Phiri, UK-based football administrator Marshall Gore, and business executive Nqobile Magwizi. The announcement was made by the FIFA-appointed Normalisation Committee led by Lincoln Mutasa, which is also acting as the Electoral Committee for the purpose of these elections meant to restore order in the association. ZIFA also announced 10 successful candidates to stand for the association’s vice-presidency and 37 for ordinary board members. The positions to be contested for on January 25 include the president, two vice presidents, of which one must be a woman, and six ordinary board members. However, some of the candidates barred from running for the ZIFA presidency have indicated they could exercise their right to appeal. According to the football statutes, aggrieved individuals could still approach the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland for redress. Former Norton Member of Parliament Mliswa said he was contemplating challenging the decision to exclude him from the successful candidates. The vetting process, through which all the aspiring candidates for the January 25 ballot were subjected to an eligibility test, has been taking place in the last two weeks with the assistance of the ZIFA Ethics Committee led by renowned legal practitioner Muchadeyi Masunda. “I would like to, first of all, congratulate those who made it in the various positions that they are seeking to stand in the ZIFA, the new ZIFA Executive Committee. “Unfortunately, I didn’t make it, but fortunately I can appeal. I will appeal,” said Mliswa. He said he will seek to challenge the loopholes in the new ZIFA constitution that was recently adopted by the association’s congress and registered with the Sports Commission. “The process of appeal is critical, not because I’m bitter, but it’s one’s right to also test the constitution. I always say that this constitution is flawed in many ways. Being flawed in many ways, it has to be tested,” said Mliswa. “The interpretation of a constitution can only be known to be what it is through the processes and the courts. I intend to start the process as soon as possible, but like any other method of appeal, you need to be given the reasons why you did not make it. And then from there, it becomes the basis for you to appeal. “The process to appeal must not be seen as a bitter way of responding, but it is a right, and it’s good for the people of Zimbabwe. We need the best leaders. “And even in a political election, you know that the appeal process is there, the constitutional court is there . . . The process starts now. The game is not over. The game has just started.” Mliswa and some of the barred candidates that spoke to Zimpapers Sports Hub were unhappy there was no explanation from the ZIFA Normalisation Committee why they failed to make the cut. Veteran football administrator Jere, who had announced he was leaving the Premier Soccer League chairmanship to focus on the ZIFA job. “I have nothing to react to at the moment; I cannot even say what the next step would be because I have not received any communication from ZIFA to say I have failed to meet the eligibility criteria because of ABC. “That way I can be able to make a decision, whether to appeal or not. If you also look at it from another angle, maybe their decision is correct, but we can only know if they say something. “As people versed with tenets of good corporate governance, I thought they were going to communicate before hand and explain why my candidature was not successful. Probably the letters are on the way. We wait,” said Jere. There has been an overwhelming interest in the upcoming elections, with a record number of nominations for the various posts in the ZIFA board. In announcing the successful candidates, a statement from the association yesterday said, “The ZIFA Normalisation Committee, acting as the ZIFA Electoral Committee in accordance with Article 85(9), is pleased to announce the names of all the candidates who have met the eligibility criteria stipulated in the ZIFA Statutes, 2024. The list of successful candidates is as follows: Marshall Gore Philemon Machana Nqobile Magwizi Martin Kweza Twine Phiri Makwinji Soma-Phiri Mavis Gumbo Patience Mutumwa Winnet Murota Joyce R. Kapota Loveness Mukura Kennedy Ndebele Omega Sibanda Peter Dube Francis Nyamutsamba Simbarashe J Takavada Gilbert Saika Sharif Mussa Umerjee Thomas Marambanyika Nicholas Munyonga Tavengwa Hara Xolisani Gwesela Bhekhimpilo Nyoni Vincent Chawonza Sweeny Mushonga Lewis Muzhara Modern Ngwenya Jerrymike Gumbo Alice Zeure Alois Bunjira Morgen Dube Sabelo Maposa Edward Mutukwa Tizirayi Luphahla Sibekikwe Ndlovu Tafadzwa Benza Cecilia Gambe Kudzai Kadzombe Sunday Chidzambwa Walter Musanhu Desmond Ali Simbarashe Ndoro Francis Nyamutsamba Davison Muchena Brighton Ushendibaba Edmore Chivero Terence T Malunga Harlington Shereni Cuthbert C. Chitima Norman Matemera Beaullar Msarah Gilbert Chiminya Zimbabwe is moving ahead into the next stage of prison reform with the establishment of a parole system overseen by a State Parole Board, but needing the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service to be able to accurately measure just which individual prisoners have met the set parole criteria and to what extent. The legal framework [...] Freedom Mupanedemo, Midlands Bureau To many cross-border truckers, the Boterekwa Pass, a 6km winding mountain stretch into Shurugwi town, is notorious for treacherous bends that lead to accidents and vehicle failures. Whether ascending or descending, drivers must exercise extreme caution, ensuring their engines are in good condition. Day in and day out, heavy trucks struggle [...] Yeukai Karengezeka, Court Correspondent Andrew Tinokunda Munemo, a suspected robber from Harare, has appeared in court facing charges of robbery and rape. He allegedly hired a sex worker, only to rob and assault her on their way to his residence. During a session before Harare regional magistrate Mr Taurai Manuwere, Munemo was advised to seek [...]

Roborock makes history with out-of-this-world video campaignHannah Kobayashi found safe in LA weeks after being reported missing, family saysBy MARY CLARE JALONICK and MATT BROWN WASHINGTON (AP) — Pete Hegseth, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Defense Department, said he had a “wonderful conversation” with Maine Sen. Susan Collins on Wednesday as he pushed to win enough votes for confirmation. He said he will not back down after allegations of excessive drinking and sexual misconduct. Related Articles National Politics | Donald Trump will ring the New York Stock Exchange bell. It’ll be a first for him National Politics | FBI Director Christopher Wray says he intends to resign at the end of Biden’s term next month National Politics | FBI Director Wray says he intends to resign at the end of Biden’s term in January National Politics | The Trump and Biden teams insist they’re working hand in glove on foreign crises National Politics | ‘You don’t know what’s next.’ International students scramble ahead of Trump inauguration Collins said after the hourlong meeting that she questioned Hegseth about the allegations amid reports of drinking and the revelation that he made a settlement payment after being accused of a sexual assault that he denies. She said she had a “good, substantive” discussion with Hegseth and “covered a wide range of topics,” including sexual assault in the military, Ukraine and NATO. But she said she would wait until a hearing, and notably a background check, to make a decision. “I asked virtually every question under the sun,” Collins told reporters as she left her office after the meeting. “I pressed him both on his position on military issues as well as the allegations against him, so I don’t think there was anything that we did not cover.” The meeting with Collins was closely watched as she is seen as more likely than most of her Republican Senate colleagues to vote against some of Trump’s Cabinet picks. She and Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski, a fellow moderate Republican, did not shy from opposing Trump in his first term when they wanted to do so and sometimes supported President Joe Biden’s nominees for the judicial and executive branches. And Hegseth, an infantry combat veteran and former “Fox & Friends” weekend host, is working to gain as many votes as he can as some senators have expressed concerns about his personal history and lack of management experience. “I’m certainly not going to assume anything about where the senator stands,” Hegseth said as he left Collins’ office. “This is a process that we respect and appreciate. And we hope, in time, overall, when we get through that committee and to the floor that we can earn her support.” Hegseth met with Murkowski on Tuesday. He has also been meeting repeatedly with Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, a military veteran who has said she is a survivor of sexual assault and has spent time in the Senate working on improving how attacks are reported and prosecuted within the ranks. On Monday, Ernst said after a meeting with him that he had committed to selecting a senior official to prioritize those goals. Republicans will have a 53-49 majority next year, meaning Trump cannot lose more than three votes on any of his nominees. It is so far unclear whether Hegseth will have enough support, but Trump has stepped up his pressure on senators in the last week. “Pete is a WINNER, and there is nothing that can be done to change that!!!” Trump posted on his social media platform last week.

The ZX Spectrum, a seemingly simple 8-bit personal home computer released in 1982 by Sinclair Research, transcended its humble origins to become a cultural phenomenon that defined a generation. Born in the UK during a time of economic recession, this unassuming little box with its rubber keys and distinctive rainbow stripe became synonymous with the 1980s, igniting a passion for technology and gaming in millions. But how did a computer with just 48KB of RAM achieve such iconic status? This article delves deep into the history of the ZX Spectrum, exploring its profound impact on British culture, the innovative games that defined its legacy, and the reasons why it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many. We’ll uncover the factors that contributed to its unprecedented success, from its disruptive price point to the vibrant community it fostered, and examine how it laid the foundation for the UK’s thriving IT industry. A Nation’s Gateway to Computing In the early 1980s, home computers were a luxury reserved for the affluent. Machines like the Apple II and Commodore PET were prohibitively expensive, placing them out of reach for most families. Sir Clive Sinclair, the visionary founder of Sinclair Research, had a different idea: to make computing accessible to everyone. His previous computer, the ZX81, had made strides in that direction, but it was the ZX Spectrum that truly democratized technology. Launched in April 1982, the ZX Spectrum was available in two models: 16KB and 48KB, priced at £125 and £175 respectively (approximately £450 and £630 today). This affordability was revolutionary, bringing computing within reach of ordinary households. Suddenly, children across the socioeconomic spectrum could experience the magic of programming and gaming in their own homes. This accessibility ignited a nationwide fascination with technology, transforming the Spectrum into a cultural symbol of progress and innovation. The Spectrum’s Colorful World One of the most striking features of the ZX Spectrum was its surprisingly vibrant color palette. While other computers of the era offered limited and often dull color options, the Spectrum boasted a dazzling array of hues, albeit with some limitations due to attribute clash. This colorful display, combined with the machine’s ability to produce surprisingly sophisticated graphics for its time, made it irresistible to game developers and captivated a generation of gamers. Games like Manic Miner, Jet Set Willy, and Chuckie Egg became instant classics, showcasing the creativity and ingenuity of a burgeoning game development scene. These games weren’t just visually appealing; they were also incredibly addictive and challenging, pushing the boundaries of what was possible on an 8-bit machine and setting new standards for game design. The Spectrum’s vibrant visuals and engaging gameplay experiences cemented its position as the leading gaming platform of its time. A Bedroom Coding Revolution The ZX Spectrum wasn’t just a gaming machine; it was also a powerful tool for learning and creativity. The BASIC programming language, built into the Spectrum’s ROM, provided an intuitive and readily available platform for users to write their own programs and games. This accessibility sparked a coding revolution, with countless young people across the UK learning to program on the Spectrum. Bedrooms were transformed into makeshift development studios, as teenagers spent countless hours hunched over their Spectrums, creating games, utilities, and even rudimentary artificial intelligence programs. This generation of “bedroom coders” went on to form the backbone of the UK’s burgeoning IT industry, contributing to the development of groundbreaking software and technologies that continue to shape our world today. The Spectrum’s impact on the technology landscape is immeasurable, having empowered a generation to become creators and innovators in the digital realm. The Rise of the Spectrum Community The ZX Spectrum fostered a vibrant and passionate community that extended far beyond individual bedrooms. Magazines like Your Sinclair and Crash provided news, reviews, and tips, fueling the enthusiasm and providing a vital source of information for eager users. Local computer clubs offered a space for enthusiasts to connect, share their creations, and learn from one another. This sense of community was crucial to the Spectrum’s success, creating a network of support and collaboration that fueled innovation and creativity. The Spectrum also spawned a thriving independent software scene. Small companies, often started by bedroom coders, sprung up across the UK, producing a vast library of games and software. This entrepreneurial spirit further cemented the Spectrum’s place in British culture, demonstrating the power of technology to empower individuals and drive economic growth. The Spectrum became a symbol of possibility, inspiring a generation to pursue their dreams and contribute to the burgeoning tech industry. The Spectrum’s Global Reach While the ZX Spectrum was undeniably a British phenomenon, its influence extended far beyond the UK’s shores. The Spectrum was also popular in other European countries, such as Spain, where it enjoyed considerable success and fostered a thriving software development scene. This international reach further solidified the Spectrum’s legacy as a truly iconic machine that captured the imaginations of people across the globe. The Spectrum’s impact on gaming and technology was felt worldwide, inspiring countless individuals to explore the world of computing and contribute to the digital revolution. Its legacy continues to inspire and influence, serving as a testament to the power of accessible technology to connect people and foster creativity. Enduring Legacy: Why the Spectrum Still Matters The ZX Spectrum’s reign as king of the home computers eventually came to an end, overtaken by more powerful machines like the Commodore Amiga and Atari ST. However, its impact on the world of technology and gaming is undeniable and continues to resonate today. The Spectrum introduced millions to the world of computing, inspiring a generation of programmers, game developers, and entrepreneurs. Its influence can be seen in the UK’s thriving games industry, which continues to produce world-class titles that entertain and captivate audiences worldwide. The Spectrum’s legacy is woven into the fabric of the gaming industry, shaping its evolution and inspiring countless developers to push the boundaries of interactive entertainment. Even today, the ZX Spectrum retains a dedicated and passionate following. Emulators and retro gaming communities keep the spirit of the Spectrum alive, allowing new generations to experience the magic of this iconic machine. The Spectrum’s legacy serves as a reminder of a time when technology was simpler, yet full of possibilities, and when a small, unassuming computer could spark a cultural revolution. Intriguing Facts: My Personal Experience: My first encounter with the ZX Spectrum was at a friend’s house in the mid-80s. I was mesmerized by the colorful graphics and fast-paced action of games like Jet Set Willy and Head Over Heels. Soon after, I convinced my parents to buy me my own Spectrum, and I spent countless hours exploring its capabilities, learning to program, and immersing myself in its world. The Spectrum wasn’t just a computer to me; it was a portal to another dimension, a source of endless fascination and creativity. Even today, I still fire up my emulator occasionally to relive those nostalgic memories and appreciate the ingenuity of this groundbreaking machine. The ZX Spectrum was more than just a computer; it was a cultural touchstone that defined a generation. Its affordability, vibrant color palette, and accessible programming language opened up the world of technology to millions, fostering a community of passionate enthusiasts and laying the foundation for the UK’s thriving IT industry. While technology has advanced significantly since the 1980s, the ZX Spectrum remains an enduring symbol of innovation, creativity, and the democratizing power of technology. It truly was “our rock ‘n’ roll,” and its impact on the world of technology and gaming continues to be felt today.