Cadillac Accelerates into Formula One: GM's Landmark 2026 EntryATLANTA (AP) — Georgia Senate Republicans recommended on Friday that the state write laws banning transgender girls and women from participating in high school and college sports, setting the stage for action in the 2025 legislative session. The vote by a committee that was studying the issue is hardly a surprise. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones — a possible Republican contender for governor in 2026 — announced almost identical goals at the panel's first meeting in August . It’s an issue that’s already been addressed in Georgia. Legislators in 2022 empowered the Georgia High School Association to regulate transgender students' participation in sports. The association, which regulates sports and activities for all public schools and some private schools, then banned transgender boys and girls from playing on the school sports teams matching their gender identity. Jones and others argue that doesn't go far enough and that lawmakers themselves need to act. It's a sign Republicans believe there is more political gain in fears about transgender women playing women’s sports or using women’s bathrooms. At least 26 mostly Republican states have passed laws or rules to restrict transgender girls from participating high school sports and, in some cases, transgender women from college sports , according to the Movement Advancement Project, a gay rights group. In Georgia, additional action appears more likely now after House Speaker Jon Burns and Gov. Brian Kemp, both Republicans, have voiced support for further legislation. Jeff Graham, executive director of the LGBTQ+ advocacy group Georgia Equality, said his group is playing defense, concerned about the possibility of other bills that could further restrict gender-affirming care or ban transgender people from using public bathrooms that match their gender identity. “We’re expecting that it’ll be at least what we saw in 2023 and 2024, with the number of bills and more than likely laws,” Graham told reporters Friday. But Burns, from Newington, has said he's not interested in other bills dealing with transgender people besides those dealing with girls' and women's sports. Republican State Sen. Greg Dolezal, of Cumming, who led the Senate study committee, said Friday that he, too, is not interested in a broader bill regulating bathroom usage, although his committee recommended that schools that host sporting events require athletes to use locker rooms based on their assigned sex at birth. Dolezal said senators would seek to write legislation that regulated public schools and colleges, as well as private institutions that compete against public schools and colleges. The committee also recommends that people be able to sue or file grievances if schools break the rules, and that state money be withheld from schools that break the rules. Supporters of more action have focused on the 2022 NCAA women’s swimming championships at Georgia Tech in Atlanta, where Lia Thomas, a transgender woman, swam for the University of Pennsylvania and won the 500-meter freestyle . The NCAA has since revised its policy on transgender women’s participation, saying it will follow the rules of respective athletics federations. World Aquatics, the swimming governing body, banned transgender women who have been through male puberty from competing in women’s races. That means Thomas wouldn’t be allowed to swim in NCAA events today. “My basic contention that this is a solution in search of a problem remains,” Graham said. He said he fears that many people who oppose laws that seek to restrict transgender people will be afraid to testify and lobby at the Georgia Capitol, citing assault charges against a man accused of shaking U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace in a Capitol office building in Washington, D.C. Dolezal repeatedly tried to turn down the emotional temperature of the issue on Friday. “I think that there’s a group of people that wants to be respected and I think that they deserve respect,” Dolezal told reporters. “But I also think that you can be respectful, but also recognize that in the sporting arena, fairness and competition is important.”ou o où 。

Georgia Republicans recommend further law to restrict transgender women's participation in sportsDrones, planes or UFOs? Americans abuzz over mysterious New Jersey sightingsTuesday, December 3, 2024 Japan, like Spain, Italy, Indonesia, Thailand, and Greece, has become a hotspot for mass tourism due to its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, world-class infrastructure, and global appeal as a unique travel destination. Several factors contribute to this surge in tourism. First, Japan’s iconic attractions such as Mount Fuji, Kyoto’s ancient temples, Tokyo’s bustling cityscapes, and the cherry blossom season draw millions of visitors annually. Its successful branding as a harmonious blend of traditional culture and modern innovation has captivated international tourists, making it a bucket-list destination. Second, the rise of social media and travel influencers has spotlighted Japan’s beauty, inspiring more travelers to visit. Destinations like Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Fushimi Inari Shrine frequently appear in viral content, contributing to over-tourism as crowds flock to these picturesque sites. Third, accessibility plays a crucial role. Japan boasts an excellent transportation network, including bullet trains and international flights, making travel seamless for both domestic and foreign visitors. Its visa policies, including visa-free travel for several countries, have also facilitated easier entry for tourists. Lastly, Japan’s hosting of global events, such as the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and the upcoming Osaka 2025 Expo, has significantly boosted its visibility on the international stage. These events attract millions of visitors, but they also strain infrastructure and lead to overcrowding at popular sites. Like Spain, Italy, and others, Japan faces challenges in balancing mass tourism with sustainable practices, necessitating strategic solutions to preserve its cultural and natural treasures while accommodating global travelers. Japan ’s tourism industry has experienced a significant resurgence in 2024 as the world reopens after the pandemic, but the return of foreign visitors has also reignited concerns over overtourism. According to a recent survey by the Development Bank of Japan and the Japan Travel Bureau Foundation, over 30% of foreign tourists reported overtourism-related issues during their trips. At the same time, the survey reveals a growing awareness of sustainable tourism among visitors, with more than 60% expressing willingness to pay higher charges to ease congestion and protect natural and cultural resources. The survey, conducted in July 2024 among 7,796 foreign travelers aged 20 to 79 from Asia, Britain, France, the United States, and Australia, sheds light on pressing challenges and opportunities in Japan’s tourism landscape. The primary concern for visitors was overcrowding at popular tourist destinations, cited by 32% of respondents. This figure is a slight increase from the 30% reported in a similar survey conducted in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic. Bad manners, such as littering and entering restricted areas, emerged as the second-most common issue reported by visitors. These behaviors not only disrupt the experience for other tourists but also pose risks to the preservation of Japan’s cultural and natural heritage. Interestingly, the survey also highlighted a shift in visitor attitudes toward sustainable tourism practices. A significant 63% of respondents said they would be willing to accept higher charges at tourist destinations and other facilities if these measures would help reduce congestion and safeguard Japan’s cultural and natural assets. This marks a notable increase from 43% in 2019, signaling growing awareness and support for sustainable tourism practices. Also Read: C hina’s New Trial Visa-Free Policy for Japan Sparks Increased Demand for Business and Family Travel While Japan’s urban centers like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka remain magnets for international travelers, the survey revealed strong interest in rural tourism. An overwhelming 97% of respondents who have visited or plan to visit Japan expressed a desire to explore the country’s regional areas. However, less than 10% of these travelers have actually ventured into Japan’s rural landscapes. This gap between interest and actual visits underscores the untapped potential of rural tourism in Japan. Expanding tourism into regional areas could alleviate the pressure on overcrowded urban destinations while offering visitors unique experiences, such as traditional crafts, local cuisine, and scenic natural beauty. Promoting rural tourism could also contribute to regional revitalization by creating jobs and supporting local economies. The survey also pointed to the upcoming 2025 World Expo in Osaka as a major draw for international travelers. Among respondents planning trips to Japan, 72% expressed interest in attending the expo, and for 42% of these travelers, the event is the main reason for their visit. The Osaka Expo is expected to attract millions of visitors and serve as a platform for showcasing Japan’s innovation, culture, and hospitality. However, managing the influx of tourists while ensuring a positive experience for both visitors and locals will be critical. Organizers and tourism authorities must prioritize sustainable practices, including crowd control measures, efficient transportation systems, and eco-friendly initiatives, to make the event a success. Also Read: Dominican Republic tourism industry is surging with visa free travel for 107 countries including Brazil. Japan, UK, US, Thailand and Germany Japan’s tourism industry is at a crossroads, with overtourism presenting both challenges and opportunities. The willingness of international visitors to pay higher charges for sustainable tourism measures offers a path forward. By implementing strategies to reduce overcrowding, protect cultural landmarks, and promote rural tourism, Japan can strike a balance between welcoming visitors and preserving its heritage. One potential solution is the introduction of destination-specific fees, such as entrance charges for popular landmarks or city-wide tourism taxes. These funds could be reinvested in infrastructure, preservation efforts, and marketing campaigns to promote lesser-known destinations. Additionally, digital tools like visitor management apps and real-time crowd monitoring systems could help distribute tourist traffic more evenly across regions. Expanding access to rural areas is another critical component of sustainable tourism in Japan. Investments in transportation networks, such as regional train routes and bus services, can make rural destinations more accessible. Collaborations with local communities to develop authentic experiences, from farm stays to cultural workshops, can also attract visitors while preserving traditional lifestyles. Also Read: Japan’s Overtourism Strain 30% of International Arrivals Experiencing Congestion this festive season Technology will play an essential role in managing the resurgence of tourism in Japan. From AI-powered translation apps to digital ticketing systems, technological solutions can enhance the visitor experience while addressing issues like overcrowding. Virtual tours and augmented reality experiences could also offer alternatives for exploring Japan’s iconic destinations without contributing to congestion. Additionally, data analytics can provide valuable insights into visitor behaviors and preferences, enabling tourism authorities to tailor their strategies. By leveraging these tools, Japan can create a more personalized and sustainable tourism experience that meets the expectations of modern travelers. As Japan prepares for the influx of visitors in 2025 and beyond, the focus must remain on balancing growth with sustainability. The survey results indicate that travelers are not only aware of the challenges posed by overtourism but are also willing to contribute to solutions. This shift in mindset represents an opportunity for Japan to lead by example in sustainable tourism practices. Also Read: Japan Faces Overtourism Challenges: New Survey Highlights Traveller Preferences and Interest in Rural Areas Ahead of 2025 World Expo in Osaka The success of Japan’s tourism industry will depend on collaboration among stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and private businesses. By prioritizing sustainability, innovation, and regional development, Japan can ensure a thriving tourism sector that benefits both visitors and residents. Read Travel Industry News in 104 different regional platforms . To know more about Asia Travel Industry, click here: Asia Get our daily dose of news, by subscribing to our newsletters. Subscribe here . Watch Travel And Tour World Interviews here . Read more Travel News , Daily Travel Alert , and Travel Industry News on Travel And Tour World only.

Presentations include analytical validation of Myriad's high-definition tumor informed MRD assay for breast cancer and its Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool MyRisk® with RiskScore® SALT LAKE CITY, Dec. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Myriad Genetics, Inc . (NASDAQ: MYGN), a leader in genetic testing and precision medicine, announced it will present new data at the 2024 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium ® (SABCS), including a spotlight presentation on a breast cancer risk assessment tool that combines a polygenic score for all ancestries. Additional new data will show how Myriad's second-generation tumor-informed molecular residual disease (MRD) assay demonstrated high sensitivity, specificity and measurement accuracy, which, together, will facilitate improved resolution in residual-disease detection and extend lead times in recurrence detection. "We are very excited to share validation data of our MRD assay. SABCS gives us the opportunity to showcase our clinical expertise in the prevention and treatment of early and advanced breast cancer,” said George Daneker, MD, President and Chief Clinical Officer, Oncology, Myriad Genetics. "Myriad is one of the only labs that can offer germline and tumor genomic testing, combined with customizable workflow solutions and point-of-care patient education sessions. Our test results are supported by treatment-focused reporting, concordance checks between germline and tumor genomic results, and a summary sheet designed to help oncologists and breast surgeons interpret actionable insights more effectively.” Myriad Genetics Data Presentations Spotlight Presentation: Session 16, PS16-01: Polygenic Risk Date: Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024, 5:30-7:00 pm (CST), Hemisfair Ballroom 3 Presenter: Timothy Simmons, PhD, Biostatistician III, Myriad Genetics The presentation will share longitudinal validation in the UK Biobank of a breast cancer risk assessment tool that combines a polygenic score for all ancestries with traditional risk factors. Rapid-Fire Presentation: RF1-06 Date: Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, 12:00-12:50 pm (CST), Hall 1 Presenter: Katie Johansen Taber, PhD, Vice President, Clinical Product Research & Partnerships, Myriad Genetics Dr. Johansen Taber will share data detailing the association of polygenic-based breast cancer risk prediction with patient management. Poster Presentation: P2-04-23 Date: Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, 5:30-7:00 pm (CST), Halls 2-3 Presenter: Ashley Acevedo, PhD, Staff Computational Scientist, Myriad Genetics This poster shares the analytical validation of a high-definition tumor-informed Molecular Residual Disease (MRD) assay to demonstrate robust detection at low-tumor fractions, which are common in breast cancer. Poster Presentation: P3-02-10 Date: Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024, 12:30-2:00 pm (CST), Halls 2-3 Presenter: Holly Pederson, MD, Cleveland Clinic Dr. Pederson will share her evaluation of a polygenic risk score as a predictor of breast cancer, triple-negative breast cancer, and early-onset disease in Hispanic women. In addition to data presentations, Myriad will welcome attendees to its booth (#1327) during exhibition hours. Among the Myriad products highlighted in the company's SABCS exhibit are: Myriad Genetics is a leading genetic testing and precision medicine company dedicated to advancing health and well-being for all. Myriad develops and offers genetic tests that help assess the risk of developing disease or disease progression and guide treatment decisions across medical specialties where genetic insights can significantly improve patient care and lower healthcare costs. For more information, visit www.myriad.com . Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains "forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including that the company will present new data at SABCS and that the company's new data that will be shared at SABCS will show how the company's second-generation tumor-informed MRD assay demonstrated high sensitivity, specificity and measurement accuracy, which, together, will facilitate improved resolution in residual-disease detection and extend lead times in recurrence detection. These "forward-looking statements” are management's expectations of future events as of the date hereof and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, conditions, and events to differ materially and adversely from those anticipated. Such factors include those risks described in the company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on February 28, 2024, as well as any updates to those risk factors filed from time to time in the company's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q or Current Reports on Form 8-K. Myriad is not under any obligation, and it expressly disclaims any obligation, to update or alter any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as required by law. Investor Contact Matt Scalo (801) 584-3532 [email protected] Media Contact Glenn Farrell (385) 318-3718 [email protected]

Buccaneers are back to .500 and in position to control their playoff hopes down the stretch

Germany to tighten criminal law as people-smuggling ‘action plan’ agreed with UKNone

President Vladimir Putin says Russia would keep testing its new Oreshnik hypersonic missile in combat and had a stock ready for use, while Ukraine said it was already at work to develop air systems to counter the weapon. or signup to continue reading Putin was speaking a day after Russia fired the new intermediate-range weapon into Ukraine for the first time, a step he said was prompted by Ukraine's use of US ballistic missiles and British cruise missiles to hit Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Kyiv was working with its Western partners to work out systems to counter "new risks". Putin described the first use of Oreshnik (hazel tree) as a successful test, and said more would follow. "We will continue these tests, including in combat conditions, depending on the situation and the nature of the security threats that are created for Russia," he said on Friday in televised comments to defence officials and missile developers. "Moreover, we have a stock of such products, a stock of such systems ready for use." A US official, however, said the weapon Russia used was an experimental one. The official said Russia has a limited number of them and that this is not a capability that Russia is able to regularly deploy on the battlefield. Intermediate missiles have a range of 3000-5500km, which would enable them to strike anywhere in Europe or the western United States from Russia. Security experts said the novel feature of the Oreshnik missile was that it carried multiple warheads capable of simultaneously striking different targets - something usually associated with longer-range intercontinental ballistic missiles designed to carry nuclear warheads. Ukraine said the missile reached a top speed of more than 13,000km/h and took about 15 minutes to reach its target from its launch. The firing of the missile was part of a sharp rise in tensions this week as both Ukraine and Russia have struck each other's territory with increasingly potent weapons. Moscow says that by giving the green light for Ukraine to fire Western missiles deep inside Russia, the US and its allies are entering into direct conflict with Russia. On Tuesday, Putin approved policy changes that lowered the threshold for Russia to use nuclear weapons in response to an attack with conventional weapons. Zelenskiy, speaking in his nightly video address, has described Russia's use of the new missile as an escalation. "On my behalf, the Minister of Defence of Ukraine is already holding meetings with our partners regarding new air defence systems capable of protecting lives from new risks," he said. "When someone starts using other countries not only for terror, but also for testing their new missiles through acts of terror, then this is clearly an international crime." Ukrainians, he said, had to remain vigilant. "We must be aware that 'comrade' Putin will keep trying to intimidate us," he said. "That is how he built all his power." The Kremlin said the firing of the Oreshnik was a warning to the West against taking further "reckless" actions and decisions in support of Ukraine. The Oreshnik was fired with conventional, not nuclear warheads. Putin said it was not a strategic nuclear weapon but its striking power and accuracy meant that its impact would be comparable, "especially when used in a massive group and in combination with other high-precision long-range systems". He said the missile could not be shot down by an enemy. "I will add that there is no countermeasure to such a missile, no means of intercepting it, in the world today," he said. "And I will emphasise once again that we will continue testing this newest system. It is necessary to establish serial production." Advertisement Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date. We care about the protection of your data. Read our . Advertisement

Buccaneers are back to .500 and in position to control their playoff hopes down the stretchGames on a college basketball schedule don't contrast much more than the two NC State has this week. The Wolfpack (6-3) host Coppin State (0-10) on Tuesday in Raleigh, N.C., then hit the road to challenge No. 10 Kansas on Saturday. NC State enters its unusual week after snapping a three-game skid with an 84-74 overtime win at home Saturday against Florida State in its Atlantic Coast Conference opener. Transfers Marcus Hill and Dontrez Styles each had their season high, scoring 23 and 21 points, respectively. They scored 13 of NC State's 14 points in overtime. "Dontrez Styles was tremendous," Wolfpack coach Kevin Keatts said. "In the second half, he made play after play." Hill, who was the top scorer last year at Bowling Green (20.5 points per game), and Styles, who was the second-leading scorer last year at Georgetown (12.8 ppg), combined to hit 14 of 25 shots and pull down 11 rebounds. The win followed defeats to then-No. 13 Purdue and BYU, both by double-digit margins, in the Rady Children's Invitational and a 63-59 loss to Texas in the SEC/ACC Challenge. "The little things that impact the game are defending, making free throws and blocking out," Keatts said. "We handled that much better than we did against Texas." Coppin State arrives in Raleigh on a 23-game losing streak dating to January -- the longest current run of futility in Division I. Each of the Eagles' losses this season have come by double-digit margins, though they have been more competitive lately, falling to Baltimore rival Loyola (Md.) 68-57 and at Wagner 65-52 last week. Julius Ellerbe III has been one of Coppin's most reliable players lately, scoring a combined 20 points in the last two games. He had 16 points and 12 rebounds in a loss to George Mason last month. Teammate Peter Oduro recorded a double-double, with 16 points and 10 rebounds, in last month's loss at Saint Joseph's. "These things take time," Coppin State second-year coach Larry Stewart said. "It takes time to establish your culture. It takes time to get the right players in your system." --Field Level Media

The City of Corner Brook has tabled its budget for 2025. (CBC) Spending is up in the City of Corner Brook, but residents won't see increases in property or business taxes as part of the 2025 budget. The balanced budget totals $41.9 million, up 6.9 per cent from 2023. However, the city says most of that increase is due to operational costs of the new $27-million recreation facility. Spending increased by 2.37 per cent when taking out costs related to the centre, according to the city. The city made no change to its residential tax rate of eight mills, but says the cost of doing business has risen with the rising cost of goods. Corner Brook budget lowers residential mill rate but raises fees, blaming increased costs Corner Brook nearly doubles transit capacity as city revamps bus system The only rate adjustments are in water and wastewater unit charges, up $20 for residents and $30 for commercial users. The increase is meant to help offset the rising cost of water treatment chemicals, but the city says the increase won't cover all of the costs. Council also approved $5.9 million in spending for wellness and recreation, which the city says is a record. It aims to provide more social opportunities for seniors and inclusive play spaces for children, according to a news release. Tourism funding is also up. The city is providing more funding for the Jigs and Wheels Festival, which brings thousands to Corner Brook each year. The money is intended to secure a more high-profile headlining music artist to attract both locals and out-of-province tourists. The city is also upping its transportation budget, spending an additional $120,000 to accommodate two larger buses for Corner Brook Transit. Mayor Jim Parsons told CBC News in November the buses will effectively double transit capacity. It also plans to continue investments in snow clearing and storm water management, along with continued work on roadways in the city. Download our free CBC News app to sign up for push alerts for CBC Newfoundland and Labrador. Sign up for our daily headlines newsletter here . Click here to visit our landing page .

C$ unless otherwise stated TSX/NYSE/PSE: MFC SEHK: 945 TORONTO , Dec. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Manulife has been notified of an unsolicited mini-tender offer made by New York Stock and Bond LLC (New York Stock and Bond) to purchase up to 50,000 Manulife common shares, or less than 0.003% of the common shares outstanding, at a price of USD$12.50 per share. Manulife is in no way associated with New York Stock and Bond and does not recommend or endorse acceptance of this unsolicited offer. Manulife cautions shareholders that the mini-tender offer has been made at a price below the current market price for Manulife shares. The offer represents a discount of approximately 60.76% and 60.80%, respectively, below the closing prices of Manulife common shares on the TSX and NYSE on November 27, 2024 , the last trading day before the mini-tender offer was commenced, and a discount of 61.43% and 61.42%, respectively, below the closing prices on the TSX and NYSE on December 6, 2024 . Mini-tender offers are designed to seek less than 5% of a company's outstanding shares, avoiding disclosure and procedural requirements applicable to most bids under Canadian and U.S. securities regulations. The Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have expressed serious concerns about mini-tender offers, including the possibility that investors might tender to such offers without understanding the offer price relative to the actual market price of their securities. The SEC states that "bidders make mini-tender offers at below-market prices, hoping that they will catch investors off guard if the investors do not compare the offer price to the current market price." Shareholders should carefully review the New York Stock and Bond offer documents and current market price for Manulife shares, and consult their investment advisors regarding any offer they may receive and review with their advisors all options for their investment in Manulife shares. Manulife has stock transfer agents providing shareholder services in Canada , the United States , Hong Kong and the Philippines . These local agents provide services directly to our registered shareholders and can provide information on share account management, direct deposit of dividends, dividend reinvestment and share purchase plans. Please email manulifeinquiries@tmx.com for more information. Manulife requests that a copy of this news release be included in any distribution of materials relating to New York Stock and Bond's mini-tender offer for Manulife common shares. About Manulife Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, helping people make their decisions easier and lives better. With our global headquarters in Toronto, Canada , we provide financial advice and insurance, operating as Manulife across Canada , Asia , and Europe , and primarily as John Hancock in the United States . Through Manulife Investment Management, the global brand for our Global Wealth and Asset Management segment, we serve individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2023, we had more than 38,000 employees, over 98,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 35 million customers. We trade as 'MFC' on the Toronto , New York , and the Philippine stock exchanges, and under '945' in Hong Kong. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/manulife-cautions-investors-regarding-new-york-stock-and-bond-llc-offer-for-shares-302326646.html SOURCE Manulife Financial CorporationSAN DIEGO — U.S. Magistrate Judge Benjamin Cheeks, a former San Diego prosecutor and defense attorney, is tracking toward becoming one of the last two federal judges appointed by President Joe Biden, though it remains uncertain if he’ll make it across the finish line that is the Senate confirmation needed for the life-tenure position. Nominated by Biden in October for a U.S. district judge seat in the Southern District of California, Cheeks has become a political pawn in Washington, D.C., where Senate Democrats and Republicans are battling over more than a dozen federal judgeships in the waning days of the Biden administration. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.

Resilience-oriented therapy, a promising approach to addressing mental health

NEW YORK — Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards has been fined $25,000 for using profane language during a media interview, the NBA announced Monday. Edwards' comments came after the Timberwolves' 107-90 win at Golden State on Dec. 6. Edwards, a two-time All-Star, is averaging 26.4 points, 5.4 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game this season. Minnesota is off to a 12-11 start after reaching the Western Conference Finals last season. ___ AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nbaNone

Goold's chat: If Cardinals trade closer Ryan Helsley, when's best time to maximize offer?Topline The U.S. government suggested Friday that Russia may be to blame for this week’s deadly Azerbaijan Airlines crash, echoing experts’ assessment of the tragedy as investigations remain ongoing. Key Facts What Has Russia Said About The Crash? Russia has so far refused to respond to suggestions that it caused the crash, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov not commenting to reporters Friday on the speculation tying Russia to the tragedy. “The investigation is ongoing into this aviation incident and until the conclusions, which will be made in accordance with its results, we don’t have the right to comment,” Peskov told Russian state media, as quoted by The Wall Street Journal . Sixteen Russian nationals were on board the flight, according to Kazakh officials cited by the Associated Press , and nine Russian survivors were flown to Moscow for treatment. What Did The Survivors Say About The Crash? Surviving passengers and crew members told Reuters they heard multiple loud “bangs” after the flight was unable to land in Grozny. “After the bang...I thought the plane was going to fall apart," passenger Subhonkul Rakhimov told Reuters from the hospital, adding “It was obvious that the plane had been damaged in some way.” “It was as if it was drunk—not the same plane anymore.” Flight attendant Zulfugar Asadov told Reuters the flight’s captain “said that he was advised to land the plane at sea, but he decided to set a course for Aktau and land it on the ground ... He warned that there would be a hard landing and asked us to be ready and prepare the passengers.” Flight attendant Aidan Rahimli told Azerbaijan’s Xezer Xeber news website there were three loud blows to the plane that sounded like they were coming from outside the aircraft, as quoted by The Washington Post. When the plane landed, the front part of the plane caught on fire, killing those on board, while the tail end of the plane was more intact. “When we hit the ground, I thought we were already dead because there was a strong shaking. As if my whole body was shaking. I did not expect to survive,” Asadov told Xezer Xeber, as quoted by the Post. “We survived thanks to the heroism of our crew commander and co-pilot.” What To Watch For Multiple investigations into the crash remain ongoing, as Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Russia have all launched probes into the tragedy. Azerbaijan Airlines and other airlines in the region also suspended flights into multiple Russian cities Friday in light of the crash. Azerbaijan is criminally investigating the crash, according to Euronews, and should Russia be found responsible, Azerbaijani parliamentarian Rasim Musabeyov told the country’s Turan news agency that the Russian government should apologize and compensate victims’ families—and be punished. “Those who did this should be held criminally liable,” Musabeyov said, as quoted by the Journal. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has also called for other countries to hold Russia accountable for the tragedy, blaming Russia for the crash and saying Friday that if the Kremlin “decides to spread lies” about its role “we will need to consolidate all international pressure on Moscow in order to establish the truth and ensure accountability.” The conflict risks deteriorating relations between Azerbaijan and Russia, with the Journal noting Azerbaijan has so far maintained “pragmatic” relations with Russia since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. The Financial Times notes Azerbaijan previously undermined Russian authorities when it took over the Nagorno-Karabakh region last year despite Russian peacekeepers in the area, however. Going forward, Richard Giragosian, director of the Regional Studies Center think tank, predicted to the Financial Times Azerbaijan “will be more overconfident and emboldened to push Moscow even harder,” adding, “The clear loser in the South Caucasus will be Russian power and prestige.” What We Don’t Know Why the flight ended up crossing over to Kazakhstan before it crashed. In a video published by Russia’s state news agency TASS, Dmitry Yadrov, head of the Russian aviation watchdog Rosaviatsia, claimed the flight could not land in Grozny due to fog and drones from Ukraine, and crossed the sea to Aktau despite offers for the flight to land at other Russian airports. Politico notes that contradicts with reports from Azerbaijan officials, who say the plane was ordered to fly across the Caspian Sea after being refused permission to land at a different Russian airport. Key Background Russia has been at war with Ukraine since it first invaded the eastern European country in 2022. Ukraine has increasingly utilized drones in Russian airspace as the fighting has continued—as Russia has also used in Ukraine—and Reuters notes Russia has responded to the attacks with significant air defense systems and equipment to affect the drones’ location data and communication systems. The Azerbaijan Airlines crash comes 10 years after a Malaysian Airlines flight from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur was downed after being hit by a Russian missile over Ukraine, an investigation into the crash determined . The crash killed all 298 people on board. Russia denied any role in that incident, which resulted in three men being criminally convicted for murder as a result of their role in shooting down the plane. Further Reading White House sees ‘indications’ airliner was downed by Russia (Washington Post) Probe Points to Russian Air Defenses Causing Azerbaijan Airlines Crash (Wall Street Journal) Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan suspend flights to Russia after plane crash (Financial Times) Exclusive: Survivors on Azerbaijani plane say they heard bangs before it went down (Reuters)Three-game skid over, NC State faces winless Coppin State