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Looking ahead, economists are closely monitoring inflationary pressures and price trends to assess the overall health of China's economy. The slight uptick in the CPI, coupled with the decline in housing prices, underscores the delicate balance needed to manage price stability while supporting economic recovery post-pandemic.How to Watch Top 25 Women’s College Basketball Games – Tuesday, November 26

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Published 4:40 pm Thursday, November 21, 2024 By Data Skrive There are four games on the college basketball schedule on Friday that feature a ranked team. That includes the Oklahoma Sooners versus the UNLV Rebels. Watch women’s college basketball, other live sports and more on Fubo. What is Fubo? Fubo is a streaming service that gives you access to your favorite live sports and shows on demand. Use our link to sign up for a free trial. Catch tons of live women’s college basketball , plus original programming, with ESPN+ or the Disney Bundle.The young influencer, known for her captivating content and immense popularity on various social media platforms, had amassed a loyal following of millions who eagerly awaited her every post. She was a shining star in the digital realm, inspiring countless individuals with her charismatic presence and infectious positivity. However, her bright future was abruptly extinguished when she fell victim to a heinous crime that has shaken the online community to its core.Looking ahead, the success of this promotion serves as a testament to the power of innovative marketing strategies in driving shareholder value and market growth. By leveraging the intersection of finance and technology and offering unique incentives to investors, the company has not only achieved unprecedented growth in its stock price but has also set a new standard for industry best practices. As the company continues to capitalize on this momentum and expand its shareholder benefits program, it is poised to further accelerate its growth trajectory and solidify its position as a market leader.

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Southwest states certify election results after the process led to controversy in previous years

Jonah Goldberg Among elites across the ideological spectrum, there's one point of unifying agreement: Americans are bitterly divided. What if that's wrong? What if elites are the ones who are bitterly divided while most Americans are fairly unified? History rarely lines up perfectly with the calendar (the "sixties" didn't really start until the decade was almost over). But politically, the 21st century neatly began in 2000, when the election ended in a tie and the color coding of electoral maps became enshrined as a kind of permanent tribal color war of "red vs. blue." Elite understanding of politics has been stuck in this framework ever since. Politicians and voters have leaned into this alleged political reality, making it seem all the more real in the process. I loathe the phrase "perception is reality," but in politics it has the reifying power of self-fulfilling prophecy. Like rival noble families in medieval Europe, elites have been vying for power and dominance on the arrogant assumption that their subjects share their concern for who rules rather than what the rulers can deliver. Political cartoonists from across country draw up something special for the holiday In 2018, the group More in Common published a massive report on the "hidden tribes" of American politics. The wealthiest and whitest groups were "devoted conservatives" (6%) and "progressive activists" (8%). These tribes dominate the media, the parties and higher education, and they dictate the competing narratives of red vs. blue, particularly on cable news and social media. Meanwhile, the overwhelming majority of Americans resided in, or were adjacent to, the "exhausted majority." These people, however, "have no narrative," as David Brooks wrote at the time. "They have no coherent philosophic worldview to organize their thinking and compel action." Lacking a narrative might seem like a very postmodern problem, but in a postmodern elite culture, postmodern problems are real problems. It's worth noting that red vs. blue America didn't emerge ex nihilo. The 1990s were a time when the economy and government seemed to be working, at home and abroad. As a result, elites leaned into the narcissism of small differences to gain political and cultural advantage. They remain obsessed with competing, often apocalyptic, narratives. That leaves out most Americans. The gladiatorial combatants of cable news, editorial pages and academia, and their superfan spectators, can afford these fights. Members of the exhausted majority are more interested in mere competence. I think that's the hidden unity elites are missing. This is why we keep throwing incumbent parties out of power: They get elected promising competence but get derailed -- or seduced -- by fan service to, or trolling of, the elites who dominate the national conversation. There's a difference between competence and expertise. One of the most profound political changes in recent years has been the separation of notions of credentialed expertise from real-world competence. This isn't a new theme in American life, but the pandemic and the lurch toward identity politics amplified distrust of experts in unprecedented ways. This is a particular problem for the left because it is far more invested in credentialism than the right. Indeed, some progressives are suddenly realizing they invested too much in the authority of experts and too little in the ability of experts to provide what people want from government, such as affordable housing, decent education and low crime. The New York Times' Ezra Klein says he's tired of defending the authority of government institutions. Rather, "I want them to work." One of the reasons progressives find Trump so offensive is his absolute inability to speak the language of expertise -- which is full of coded elite shibboleths. But Trump veritably shouts the language of competence. I don't mean he is actually competent at governing. But he is effectively blunt about calling leaders, experts and elites -- of both parties -- stupid, ineffective, weak and incompetent. He lost in 2020 because voters didn't believe he was actually good at governing. He won in 2024 because the exhausted majority concluded the Biden administration was bad at it. Nostalgia for the low-inflation pre-pandemic economy was enough to convince voters that Trumpian drama is the tolerable price to pay for a good economy. About 3 out of 4 Americans who experienced "severe hardship" because of inflation voted for Trump. The genius of Trump's most effective ad -- "Kamala is for they/them, President Trump is for you" -- was that it was simultaneously culture-war red meat and an argument that Harris was more concerned about boutique elite concerns than everyday ones. If Trump can actually deliver competent government, he could make the Republican Party the majority party for a generation. For myriad reasons, that's an if so big it's visible from space. But the opportunity is there -- and has been there all along. Goldberg is editor-in-chief of The Dispatch: thedispatch.com . Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly!As the baton of wealth is inherited by younger generations, the heirs of wealthy families are taking a more active role in the impact they seek to create in the world by using the traditionally monolithic family office for more innovative, value-based investments. The great wealth transfer is in full swing as over $100 trillion is projected to be passed down from the older generations to their heirs through 2048 in the United States, according to a December report by research and consulting firm Cerulli Associates. "There's a big intergenerational wealth transfer, but the preferences of the baby boomers are starkly different from the preferences of ... millennials," Nirbhay Handa, CEO of global migration platform Multipolitan, told CNBC Make It . "Now you have this younger generation which really believes that profit and progress should go hand in hand," Handa said. Millennials (ages 27 to 42) and Generation X (ages 43 to 58) stand to be the biggest beneficiaries of the wealth transfer, and are expected to inherit about $85 trillion between 2024 to 2048, according to the report. Generation Z and younger generations (ages 27 and younger) are expected to inherit over $15 trillion. Notably, the majority of wealth transfer will come from high-net-worth (HNW) and ultra-high-net-worth (UNHW) families, who together make up around 2% of all households, according to the report. These families are expected to contribute to over 50% of the transfers, or about $62 trillion. Compared to the baby boomers and older generations, "[younger generations] are less motivated by money, if I generalize, and much more [motivated by] contributing to society," said Martin Roll, an INSEAD Distinguished Fellow and family business and family office expert for McKinsey and Company. "They look out the front window [and ask]: 'What's ahead here? What are the big questions of our time?'" Gen X and millennials are concerned with societal impact — topics like climate change, diversity, health and wellness and hedging against geopolitical conflict are top of mind, said Handa. "I think sustainability and the whole ESG narrative is extremely robust [among younger generations]," the Multipolitan CEO added. "So they may not be interested in investing in fossil fuels or oil and gas, but they're very interested in investing in a company like Oatly ... or Beyond Meat," said Handa. This shift in investing attitudes by younger generations came out of necessity, said Handa. "People are seeing wars, [they're] seeing the impact of climate change... there's a lack of drinking water in many parts of the world," he explained. "As a result of that, this generation has become more resolute on focusing on things which are aligned with their personal values." "The challenges are real ... yes, we talked about cliamate in the 60s and 70s, you'll find them in the American newspapers then, but it was just a little more abstract. Now, it's real. Storms are coming, flooding is happening, hurricanes are more often... it's proof [and] they see it," said Roll. Another major shift can be seen in how some family offices are run. "The whole idea of family offices is less rigid than it used to be... Family Offices have become centers of innovation," said Handa. Having grown up in the age of digitization, the younger generations of wealthy families are investing more into technology and startups. They seek to discover and invest in technologies that can be a "lever for impact," said Roll. "For example, investing in climate tech, edtech, food treatment, water treatment, natural resources, renewable energy." In addition, younger generations are more active in how they invest through their family offices. "30 years ago, family offices were primarily the equity stakes from the company that the family owns through the family office, and would be tied up in real estate, some broader public equities and [overall, it would be a] passive portfolio," said Roll. Today, however, family offices are increasingly making direct investments into private companies, which is not traditional, Roll added. "The parents used to be what I call monolithic — they ran one business, but the younger people coming in may not be interested in chemicals, which is the main business, therefore they start to diversify [through] the family office," said Roll. Although it is true that wealth has always changed hands, the significance of the Great Wealth Transfer of our generation can be explained by looking back at the third wave of the industrial revolution. "It was really that industrialization of particularly, the Western world, that took place in the 50s and 60s, ultimately, with the rise of America after World War Two, and Europe — a lot of wealth was created," said Roll. Out of this post-war "boom," there were about 40 years of "outstanding economic activity," which led to the creation of new industries, big businesses and ultimately, the rise of the middle class in the U.S. and Europe, said Roll. "Therefore, jobs were created ... Everyone got a car, people got a house ... so you got a lot of major shifts that enabled that kind of wealth creation," Roll told CNBC Make It. It was this senior generation that really built "the world and the wealth after World War Two," and "that wealth, including business stakes, is now getting passed on to Gen X, but also to, of course, younger people," said Roll. Overall, as trillions of dollars change hands, what does this mean for the world? "This massive shift in money means the way things were done in the past is not necessarily how things will be done in the future," said Handa. "This era is about vitality and vibrancy and engagement. It's about democratization, it's about aspiration, it's about accessibility," Handa said. "Investment preferences are changing and legacy institutions need to adapt to the new world." Ultimately, as the younger generations inherit the wealth, Roll said: "I think you will see the money [doing] good work. It will be reinvested in the economy ... in technology, and I think in some of the big challenges of our time: climate, gender issues, minorities, villages, poor people and basic [education]." Want to make extra money outside of your day job? Sign up for CNBC's online course How to Earn Passive Income Online to learn about common passive income streams, tips to get started and real-life success stories. Plus, sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter to get tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life.

NEW YORK, Dec. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces the filing of a class action lawsuit on behalf of purchasers of common stock of MGP Ingredients, Inc. MGPI between May 4, 2023 and October 30, 2024. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than February 14, 2025. SO WHAT: If you purchased MGPI common stock during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the MGPI class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=9167 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than February 14, 2025 . A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period made materially false and/or misleading statements, and failed to disclose material adverse facts about MGPI's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, defendants repeatedly touted a strong demand and "normal" inventory levels in brown goods (i.e., American whiskies and tequila), when in fact there had been a slowdown in consumption and oversupply in their products. Worse, defendants had assured investors that they were positioned differently than their competitors, and that this was a non-issue, because MGPI had already taken steps to mitigate the risk, when in fact it had not. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. To join the MGPI class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=9167 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm , on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/ . Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@rosenlegal.com www.rosenlegal.com © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

After delay, Trump signs agreement with Biden White House to begin formal transition handoff

The man who ended Nadal's career helps the Netherlands beat Germany to reach the Davis Cup final MALAGA, Spain (AP) — The last man to face — and beat — Rafael Nadal in professional tennis, 80th-ranked Botic van de Zandschulp , converted his 10th match point Friday to finally close out a 6-4, 6-7 (12), 6-3 victory over Daniel Altmaier and help th Howard Fendrich, The Associated Press Nov 22, 2024 1:57 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Netherlands' Tallon Griekspoor celebrates after winning against Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff during the Davis Cup semifinal at the Martin Carpena Sports Hall in Malaga, southern Spain, on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez) MALAGA, Spain (AP) — The last man to face — and beat — Rafael Nadal in professional tennis, 80th-ranked Botic van de Zandschulp , converted his 10th match point Friday to finally close out a 6-4, 6-7 (12), 6-3 victory over Daniel Altmaier and help the Netherlands reach its first Davis Cup final by sweeping Germany. Tallon Griekspoor, who is ranked 40th, sealed the 2-0 win for the Dutch in the best-of-three-match semifinal by hitting 25 aces and coming back to defeat Jan-Lennard Struff 6-7 (4), 7-5, 6-4. When it ended, appropriately, on an ace, Griekspoor shut his eyes, dropped to his knees and spread his arms wide. “We have been talking about this for two, three years,” Griekspoor said. “We believed in ourselves so much. We always felt like this was possible. To do it now feels unbelievable.” The other semifinal is Saturday, with No. 1-ranked Jannik Sinner and defending champion Italy taking on Australia . The championship will be decided Sunday. “We don’t have that top 5 player. We don’t that top 10 player. We don’t have that top 15 player,” Dutch captain Paul Harhuuis said. “But it’s a team effort. ... So proud of these guys.” In Friday's opener, van de Zandschulp was up a set and just a point away from leading 5-2 in the second when Altmaier began playing more aggressively and interacting more with the German fans, yelling and throwing uppercuts or raising his arms after key points. In the tiebreaker, Altmaier managed to save five match points before converting his own fourth set point to extend the contest. But van de Zandschulp — who upset four-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz at the U.S. Open — quickly moved out front in the final set, even if he eventually needed five more match points in the last game before serving it out. “At some point, I didn’t know what to do any more on the match points,” van de Zandschulp said. “I had the toughest match of my life on Tuesday (against Nadal), so everything that comes next is maybe a little bit easier.” In the quarterfinals, van de Zandschulp outplayed Nadal for a 6-4, 6-4 result that marked the end of the 22-time Grand Slam champion’s career because the Netherlands went on to eliminate Spain 2-1. The 38-year-old Nadal announced last month that the Davis Cup would be his final event before retiring. Presumably because people purchased tickets ahead of time with plans to watch Nadal compete in the semifinals, there were hundreds of unoccupied blue or gray seats surrounding the indoor hard court at the Palacio de Deportes Jose Maria Martina Carpena in southern Spain on Friday. Now truly a neutral site, the place was not nearly as loud and rowdy as on Tuesday, although there were shouts of “Vamos, Rafa!” that drew laughter while van de Zandschulp played the 88th-ranked Altmaier. It took Griekspoor more than 75 minutes and nearly two full sets to figure out how to break No. 43 Struff and then did it twice in a row — to lead 6-5 in the second set, and then go up 1-0 in the third. That was plenty, because Griekspoor saved the only two break points he faced. The Netherlands hadn’t been to the semifinals since 2001. The Germans — whose best current player, two-time major finalist Alexander Zverev, is not on the team in Malaga — have won three Davis Cups, but not since 1993, when 1991 Wimbledon champion Michael Stich led them to the title. ___ AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis Howard Fendrich, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Tennis The man who ended Nadal's career helps the Netherlands take a Davis Cup lead against Germany Nov 22, 2024 11:22 AM 3 Nigerian tennis players suspended and fined for violating match-fixing rules Nov 22, 2024 7:55 AM Rafael Nadal retired after the Davis Cup. It's a rare team event in tennis Nov 22, 2024 5:46 AM

www rich9 ph No. 10 Georgia scores nearly at will, destroys UMassBiden will decide on US Steel acquisition after influential panel fails to reach consensus WASHINGTON (AP) — A powerful government panel has failed to reach consensus on the possible national security risks of a nearly $15 billion proposed deal for Nippon Steel of Japan to purchase U.S. Steel. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States on Monday sent its long-awaited report to President Joe Biden, a longtime opponent of the deal. Some federal agencies represented on the panel were skeptical that allowing a Japanese company to buy an American-owned steelmaker would create national security risks. That's according to a U.S. official familiar with the matter. Both Biden and President-elect Donald Trump opposed the merger and vowed to block it. Nippon Steel says it is confident the deal will go ahead. Nissan and Honda to attempt a merger that would create the world's No. 3 automaker TOKYO (AP) — Japanese automakers Nissan and Honda have announced plans to work toward a merger that would catapult them to a top position in an industry in the midst of tectonic shifts as it transitions away from its reliance on fossil fuels. The two companies said they signed an agreement on integrating their businesses on Monday. Smaller Nissan alliance member Mitsubishi Motors agreed to join the talks. News of a possible merger surfaced earlier this month. Japanese automakers face a strong challenge from their Chinese rivals and Tesla as they make inroads into markets at home and abroad. What a merger between Nissan and Honda means for the automakers and the industry BANGKOK (AP) — Japanese automakers Honda and Nissan will attempt to merge and create the world’s third-largest automaker by sales as the industry undergoes dramatic changes in its transition away from fossil fuels. The two companies said they had signed a memorandum of understanding on Monday and that smaller Nissan alliance member Mitsubishi Motors also had agreed to join the talks on integrating their businesses. Honda will initially lead the new management, retaining the principles and brands of each company. Following is a quick look at what a combined Honda and Nissan would mean for the companies, and for the auto industry. Survey: Small businesses are feeling more optimistic about the economy after the election A survey shows small business owners are feeling more optimistic about the economy following the election. The National Federation of Independent Businesses’ Small Business Optimism Index rose by eight points in November to 101.7, its highest reading since June 2021. The Uncertainty Index declined 12 points in November to 98, following October’s pre-election record high of 110. NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg said small business owners became more certain about future business conditions following the presidential election, breaking a nearly three-year streak of record high uncertainty. The survey also showed that more owners are also hoping 2025 will be a good time to grow. Heavy travel day off to a rough start after American Airlines briefly grounds all flights WASHINGTON (AP) — American Airlines briefly grounded flights nationwide due to a technical problem just as the Christmas travel season kicked into overdrive and winter weather threatened more potential problems for those planning to fly or drive. Government regulators cleared American flights to get airborne Tuesday about one hour after the Federal Aviation Administration ordered a national ground stop, which prevented planes from taking off. American said in an email that the problem was caused by an issue with a vendor technology that maintains its flight operating system. The flight-tracking site FlightAware reported that more than 3,200 flights entering or leaving the U.S., or serving domestic destinations, were delayed. Twenty-eight flights were canceled. Nordstrom to be acquired by Nordstrom family and a Mexican retail group in $6.25 billion deal Century-old department store Nordstrom has agreed to be acquired and taken private by Nordstrom family members and a Mexican retail group in a $6.25 billion deal. Nordstrom shareholders will receive $24.25 in cash for each share of Nordstrom common stock, representing a 42% premium on the company’s stock as of March 18. Nordstrom’s board of directors unanimously approved the the proposed transaction, while Erik and Pete Nordstrom — part of the Nordstrom family taking over the company — recused themselves from voting. Following the close of the transaction, the Nordstrom Family will have a majority ownership stake in the company. Stock market today: Wall Street rallies ahead of Christmas Stocks closed higher on Wall Street ahead of the Christmas holiday, led by gains in Big Tech stocks. The S&P 500 added 1.1% Tuesday. Trading closed early ahead of the holiday. Tech companies including Apple, Amazon and chip company Broadcom helped pull the market higher. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.9%, and the Nasdaq composite climbed 1.3%. American Airlines shook off an early loss and ended mostly higher after the airline briefly grounded flights nationwide due to a technical issue. Treasury yields held steady in the bond market. The yield on the 10-year Treasury was little changed at 4.59% An analyst looks ahead to how the US economy might fare under Trump WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump won a return to the White House in part by promising big changes in economic policy — more tax cuts, huge tariffs on imports, mass deportations of immigrants working in the United States illegally. In some ways, his victory marked a repudiation of President Joe Biden’s economic stewardship and a protest against inflation. It came despite low unemployment and steady growth under the Biden administration. What lies ahead for the economy under Trump? Paul Ashworth of Capital Economics spoke recently to The Associated Press. The interview has been edited for length and clarity. American consumers feeling less confident in December, Conference Board says American consumers are feeling less confident in December, a business research group says. The Conference Board said Monday that its consumer confidence index fell back in December to 104.7 from 112.8 in November. Consumers had been feeling increasingly confident in recent months. The consumer confidence index measures both Americans’ assessment of current economic conditions and their outlook for the next six months. The measure of Americans’ short-term expectations for income, business and the job market tumbled more than a dozen points to 81.1. The Conference Board says a reading under 80 can signal a potential recession in the near future. Stock market today: Wall Street rises at the start of a holiday-shortened week Stocks closed higher on Wall Street at the start of a holiday-shortened week. The S&P 500 rose 0.7% Monday. Several big technology companies helped support the gains, including chip companies Nvidia and Broadcom. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.2%, and the Nasdaq composite rose 1%. Honda's U.S.-listed shares rose sharply after the company said it was in talks about a combination with Nissan in a deal that could also include Mitsubishi Motors. Eli Lilly rose after announcing that regulators approved Zepbound as the first prescription medicine for adults with sleep apnea. Treasury yields rose in the bond market.FILE - Then-New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Oct. 8, 2023, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer, File) Welcome to the Fox News Sports Huddle Newsletter. NEW TURF – Bill Belichick, 72, appears to be making the surprising move to the collegiate ranks. The six-time Super Bowl winner and North Carolina are finalizing a three-year, $30 million deal, per multiple reports. Continue reading ... 'CLEAR THE AIR' – Brett Favre addressed a viral confrontation caught on video between Mark Gastineau and himself over Michael Strahan sacking the Packers' legend to break the single-season sack record. Continue reading ... TAKING A STAND – Former NCAA swimmer Riley Gaines recently honored a high school girls volleyball team in California after they forfeited a playoff game that would have featured a transgender athlete. Continue reading ... Former University of Kentucky swimmer Riley Gaines speaks at an event. (The Leadership Institute) GOOGLE SEARCH – Imane Khelif, the controversial athlete that won Olympic gold in women's boxing at the Paris Olympics, was one of the most-searched athletes listed on Google's "Year in Search." Continue reading ... SPORTSMANSHIP – The brawl that erupted at midfield after Michigan players attempted to plant a flag on Ohio State’s logo after the Wolverines' upset win last month prompted one Republican lawmaker to attempt to outlaw the act. Continue reading ... NFL POWER RANKINGS – The Chiefs survived again. The Eagles and Lions refused to lose. Here's a look at the latest Power Rankings brought to you by Fox News Digital Sports. Continue reading ... The NFL logo is seen on the field prior to a game between the Green Bay Packers and Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on December 25, 2022 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images) WINNERS AND LOSERS – Clemson held on to win the ACC Championship, Georgia stunned Texas to win the SEC Championship, and Boise State secured a bye in the 12-team College Football Playoff. Here's a look at the college football landscape powered by Fox News Digital Sports. Continue reading ... FROM FOX SPORTS – Juan Soto signed a record-breaking deal, Max Fried landed the largest guarantee for a left-handed pitcher in MLB history. Here's a look at the biggest names remaining in free agency. Continue reading ... FROM OUTKICK – M innesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold is having a great season by all accounts, but some have argued he should not be considered for Comeback Player of the Year. Continue reading ... WATCH NOW – Former NFL star Keyshawn Johnson shares a personal experience from his time in the league, drawing parallels to the issues between Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and wide receiver A.J. Brown. Watch here ... FOLLOW FOX NEWS ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook Instagram YouTube Twitter LinkedIn SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTERS Fox News First Fox News Opinion Fox News Lifestyle Fox News Autos Fox News Health DOWNLOAD OUR APPS Fox News Fox Business Fox Weather Fox Sports Tubi WATCH FOX NEWS ONLINE Fox News Go OUTKICK COVERAGE OutKick Sign up for OutKick's daily newsletter STREAM FOX NATION Fox Nation This article was written by Fox News staff.

This ain't Texas—this is buffering. As Beyoncé gets ready to perform during the Houston Texans vs. Baltimore Ravens Christmas Day halftime show at NRG Stadium in her hometown of Houston, she couldn't help but poke a bit of fun at Netflix , who will be live-streaming the game on their platform. In a video posted to her social media accounts Dec. 24 , the Grammy winner could be seen sitting on a football field wearing a flowing cape, big hat and sunglasses and strumming a banjo to the tune of her hit "Texas Hold 'Em." As Beyoncé removes her sunglasses, the camera zooms in on her face before giving viewers the classic Netflix red circle buffer. The "Diva" singer—who shares children Blue Ivy Carter , 12, and twins Rumi Carter and Sir Carter , 7, with husband Jay-Z —can then be heard laughing over the buffer, before the video cuts to a reminder about the game. "I'm sending you big joy and love on this Cowboy Christmas Eve," the 43-year-old wrote alongside the promo. "I'll see y'all tomorrow, in my city HTX." And of course fans were delighted by the trolling, with Netflix even jumping in to share their own thoughts. "now hold on...," they wrote in the comments of her video on X , formerly Twitter, before changing their bio on the platform to, "roasted by beyoncé 12.24.25." Beyoncé's halftime performance marks the first time she's taken the stage since wrapping her Renaissance World Tour in October 2023, and also the first since the March release of her latest album, Cowboy Carter . And while the Texans-Ravens game will start streaming on Netflix at 4:30 p.m. ET, fans will still have three hours to catch her performance on the platform after the game ends, according to Variety . (Although if you're outside the United States, the game expires 24 hours after the stream ends.) But it's not all about football for Beyoncé, as mom Tina Knowles recently shared a few of the family's holiday traditions that they'll be enjoying this year. "For the kids, we buy toys just like in any other family," she told E! News . "That's what they like." And it's not just gifts they'll be enjoying, as Tina has another recipe for success up her sleeve, noting she'll be, "making my amazing gumbo." "I just made it for Thanksgiving," she added, "it was so many people that came over. Just good food and company and family." To see how more of your favorite stars are celebrating the holidays this year, keep reading. Christian Siriano The fashion designer attends David Barton and Susanne Bartsch ’s 25th annual toy drive at Gym U in New York City. Bronwyn Newport, Angie Katsanevas, Mary Cosby & Whitney Rose The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City costars escape the Utah snow to party at DIRECTV’s Christmas at Kathy’s bash in Beverly Hills. Larsa Pippen & Marysol Patton The Real Housewives of Miami costars rock Printfresh pajamas for Marysol's Recharge & Reset holiday pajama party. Kourtney Kardashian The Poosh founder gave fans a glimpse at her holiday decor, which included numerous Christmas trees all around her home, with one upside down. Kris Jenner The Kardashians star is definitely the most interesting to look at while attending Kathy & Nicky Hilton's Annual Holiday Printfresh Pajama Launch Party Benefitting Animal Haven and Camp Cocker Rescue in L.A. Cynthia Bailey & Crystal Kung Minkoff The Real Housewives stars co-host The Abbey’s 15th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in honor of World AIDS Day benefiting The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation in West Hollywood. Kathy Hilton and Nicky Hilton The mother-daughter duo host the hottest holiday party in the 90210. Tarek El Moussa & Heather Rae El Moussa The lovebirds attend DIRECTV’s Christmas at Kathy’s party benefitting Ronald McDonald House charities. Heather Dubrow The Real Housewives of Orange County star swapped Prada for pajamas during Kathy & Nicky Hilton's Annual Holiday Printfresh Pajama Launch Party. Cynthia Bailey The Bravolebrity is pretty in pink at Kathy & Nicky Hilton's Annual Holiday Printfresh Pajama Launch Party. Lisa Barlow & Kathy Hilton The Real Housewives stars belt out a number at Kathy's DIRECTV bash in Beverly Hills. Dylan Mulvaney & Ashley Park The influencer and Emily and Paris star ring in the holidays in the comfiest way possible. Crystal Kung Minkoff The RHOBH alum attends BFF Kathy Hilton's holiday PJ party. John Janssen & Alexis Bellino The RHOC couple enjoy date night at DIRECTV’s Christmas at Kathy’s charity party. Kimora Lee Simmons The supermodel looks runway ready at Kathy & Nicky Hilton's Annual Holiday Printfresh Pajama Launch Party in L.A. Jennifer Tilly The RHOBH castmember is feeling festive at Kathy & Nicky Hilton's Annual Holiday Printfresh Pajama Launch Party. Nicky Hilton The entrepreneur kicks of the holiday season hosting a party alongside mom Kathy. Kathy Hilton The Real Housewives star is definitely feeling hunky dory this holiday season. Dorit Kemsley The RHOBH star strikes a pose in front of Kathy Hilton's Christmas tree. Kyle Richards & Faye Resnick The besties ring in the 2024 holiday season today at Kathy & Nicky Hilton's Annual Holiday Printfresh Pajama Launch Party. Erika Jayne The "Pretty Mess" singer has her hands full with some enviable stocking stuffers. Paula Abdul The "Straight Up" singer is comfy and cozy during Kathy & Nicky Hilton's Annual Holiday Printfresh Pajama Launch Party. Ashley Benson The actress stops by Kathy & Nicky Hilton's Annual Holiday Printfresh Pajama Launch Party. Jaime King The actress models a Kathy Hilton original.

Dana Hull | (TNS) Bloomberg News Jared Birchall, Elon Musk’s money manager and the head of his family office, is listed as the chief executive officer. Jehn Balajadia, a longtime Musk aide who has worked at SpaceX and the Boring Co., is named as an official contact. Related Articles National Politics | Trump’s picks for top health jobs not just team of rivals but ‘team of opponents’ National Politics | Biden will decide on US Steel acquisition after influential panel fails to reach consensus National Politics | Biden vetoes once-bipartisan effort to add 66 federal judgeships, citing ‘hurried’ House action National Politics | A history of the Panama Canal — and why Trump can’t take it back on his own National Politics | President-elect Trump wants to again rename North America’s tallest peak But they’re not connected to Musk’s new technology venture, or the political operation that’s endeared him to Donald Trump. Instead, they’re tied to the billionaire’s new Montessori school outside Bastrop, Texas, called Ad Astra, according to documents filed with state authorities and obtained via a Texas Public Information Act request. The world’s richest person oversees an overlapping empire of six companies — or seven, if you include his political action committee. Alongside rockets, electric cars, brain implants, social media and the next Trump administration, he is increasingly focused on education, spanning preschool to college. One part of his endeavor was revealed last year, when Bloomberg News reported that his foundation had set aside roughly $100 million to create a technology-focused primary and secondary school in Austin, with eventual plans for a university. An additional $137 million in cash and stock was allotted last year, according to the most recent tax filing for the Musk Foundation. Ad Astra is closer to fruition. The state documents show Texas authorities issued an initial permit last month, clearing the way for the center to operate with as many as 21 pupils. Ad Astra’s website says it’s “currently open to all children ages 3 to 9.” The school’s account on X includes job postings for an assistant teacher for preschool and kindergarten and an assistant teacher for students ages 6 to 9. To run the school, Ad Astra is partnering with a company that has experience with billionaires: Xplor Education, which developed Hala Kahiki Montessori school in Lanai, Hawaii, the island 98% owned by Oracle Corp. founder Larry Ellison. Ad Astra sits on a highway outside Bastrop, a bedroom community about 30 miles from Austin and part of a region that’s home to several of Musk’s businesses. On a visit during a recent weekday morning, there was a single Toyota Prius in the parking lot and no one answered the door at the white building with a gray metal roof. The school’s main entrance was blocked by a gate, and there was no sign of any children on the grounds. But what information there is about Ad Astra makes it sound like a fairly typical, if high-end, Montessori preschool. The proposed schedule includes “thematic, STEM-based activities and projects” as well as outdoor play and nap time. A sample snack calendar features carrots and hummus. While Birchall’s and Balajadia’s names appear in the application, it isn’t clear that they’ll have substantive roles at the school once it’s operational. Musk, Birchall and Balajadia didn’t respond to emailed questions. A phone call and email to the school went unanswered. Access to high quality, affordable childcare is a huge issue for working parents across the country, and tends to be an especially vexing problem in rural areas like Bastrop. Many families live in “childcare deserts” where there is either not a facility or there isn’t an available slot. Opening Ad Astra gives Musk a chance to showcase his vision for education, and his support for the hands-on learning and problem solving that are a hallmark of his industrial companies. His public comments about learning frequently overlap with cultural concerns popular among conservatives and the Make America Great Again crowd, often focusing on what he sees as young minds being indoctrinated by teachers spewing left-wing propaganda. He has railed against diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, and in August posted that “a lot of schools are teaching white boys to hate themselves.” Musk’s educational interests dovetail with his new role as Trump’s “first buddy.” The billionaire has pitched a role for himself that he — and now the incoming Trump administration — call “DOGE,” or the Department of Government Efficiency. Though it’s not an actual department, DOGE now posts on X, the social media platform that Musk owns. “The Department of Education spent over $1 billion promoting DEI in America’s schools,” the account posted Dec. 12. Back in Texas, Bastrop is quickly becoming a key Musk point of interest. The Boring Co., his tunneling venture, is based in an unincorporated area there. Across the road, SpaceX produces Starlink satellites at a 500,000-square-foot (46,000-square-meter) facility. Nearby, X is constructing a building for trust and safety workers. Musk employees, as well as the general public, can grab snacks at the Boring Bodega, a convenience store housed within Musk’s Hyperloop Plaza, which also contains a bar, candy shop and hair salon. Ad Astra is just a five-minute drive away. It seems to have been designed with the children of Musk’s employees — if not Musk’s own offspring — in mind. Musk has fathered at least 12 children, six of them in the last five years. “Ad Astra’s mission is to foster curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in the next generation of problem solvers and builders,” reads the school’s website. A job posting on the website of the Montessori Institute of North Texas says “While their parents support the breakthroughs that expand the realm of human possibility, their children will grow into the next generation of innovators in a way that only authentic Montessori can provide.” The school has hired an executive director, according to documents Bloomberg obtained from Texas Health and Human Services. Ad Astra is located on 40 acres of land, according to the documents, which said a 4,000-square-foot house would be remodeled for the preschool. It isn’t uncommon for entrepreneurs to take an interest in education, according to Bill Gormley, a professor emeritus at the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University who studies early childhood education. Charles Butt, the chairman of the Texas-based H-E-B grocery chain, has made public education a focus of his philanthropy. Along with other business and community leaders, Butt founded “Raise Your Hand Texas,” which advocates on school funding, teacher workforce and retention issues and fully funding pre-kindergarten. “Musk is not the only entrepreneur to recognize the value of preschool for Texas workers,” Gormley said. “A lot of politicians and business people get enthusiastic about education in general — and preschool in particular — because they salivate at the prospect of a better workforce.” Musk spent much of October actively campaigning for Trump’s presidential effort, becoming the most prolific donor of the election cycle. He poured at least $274 million into political groups in 2024, including $238 million to America PAC, the political action committee he founded. While the vast majority of money raised by America PAC came from Musk himself, it also had support from other donors. Betsy DeVos, who served as education secretary in Trump’s first term, donated $250,000, federal filings show. The Department of Education is already in the new administration’s cross hairs. Trump campaigned on the idea of disbanding the department and dismantling diversity initiatives, and he has also taken aim at transgender rights. “Rather than indoctrinating young people with inappropriate racial, sexual, and political material, which is what we’re doing now, our schools must be totally refocused to prepare our children to succeed in the world of work,” Trump wrote in Agenda 47, his campaign platform. Musk has three children with the musician Grimes and three with Shivon Zilis, who in the past was actively involved at Neuralink, his brain machine interface company. All are under the age of five. Musk took X, his son with Grimes, with him on a recent trip to Capitol Hill. After his visit, he shared a graphic that showed the growth of administrators in America’s public schools since 2000. Musk is a fan of hands-on education. During a Tesla earnings call in 2018, he talked about the need for more electricians as the electric-car maker scaled up the energy side of its business. On the Joe Rogan podcast in 2020, Musk said that “too many smart people go into finance and law.” “I have a lot of respect for people who work with their hands and we need electricians and plumbers and carpenters,” Musk said while campaigning for Trump in Pennsylvania in October. “That’s a lot more important than having incremental political science majors.” Ad Astra’s website says the cost of tuition will be initially subsidized, but in future years “tuition will be in line with local private schools that include an extended day program.” “I do think we need significant reform in education,” Musk said at a separate Trump campaign event. “The priority should be to teach kids skills that they will find useful later in life, and to leave any sort of social propaganda out of the classroom.” With assistance from Sophie Alexander and Kara Carlson. ©2024 Bloomberg News. Visit at bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.No. 10 Georgia scores nearly at will, destroys UMassAnalysis:7-Eleven battle shows resilience of Japan Inc's family ties

PHILADELPHIA – Saquon Barkley knew the Eagles season rushing record could be his on Sunday with the type of stellar performance that has become the standard during his first season in Philadelphia. As for the exact moment Barkley hit the milestone, he wasn't sure — until the “MVP!” chants echoed throughout the Linc after a 9-yard run in the fourth quarter . Recommended Videos “The records are great, they put a smile on your face,” Barkley said, “but the season is far from over.” Needing 109 yards to break LeSean McCoy's record, Barkley rushed for 124 yards and pushed his season total to 1,623 in a 22-16 victory over Carolina . Barkley needed just 13 games to pass McCoy, who rushed for 1,607 yards in 2013. He also overtook Wilbert Montgomery, who had 1,512 yards in 1978. “I never wrote the goal down to break it,” Barkley said. “You're always aware of it. That's how I train. That's how I operate in the offseason. I want to be great.” Barkley also maintained his pace to break Eric Dickerson’s NFL single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards, set in 1984 with the Los Angeles Rams. “That would be extremely cool to do,” Barkley said. “If it happens, it happens, and not with the mindset of, I'm scared to go try to do it. Whatever it takes to win football games.” Barkley is averaging 124.8 yards per game. At that pace and with one more game to play than Dickerson, he would become the top single-season rusher in NFL history. He needs 483 yards yards over the final four games to top Dickerson’s 40-year-old record. He averaged 6.2 yards on 20 carries against the Panthers to help the Eagles win their ninth straight game. McCoy, who was inducted into the team's Hall of Fame this season, remains the franchise’s rushing leader with 6,792 yards. Referencing his old uniform number, McCoy congratulated Barkley on social media with “a lot of love, coming from 2-5." “Being a fan of Shady's growing up, and seeing the spectacular things he was able to do with the ball in his hand, to be able to have my name mentioned with him definitely means a lot,” Barkley said. Barkley left the New York Giants in the offseason and signed a three-year deal worth $26 million guaranteed to join the Eagles, who made him the highest-paid running back in franchise history. The 27-year-old has been worth every dollar. Barkley is among the favorites for league MVP, according to BetMGM Sportsbook. Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen was the only player with better MVP odds entering Sunday. Barkley has a franchise-record nine 100-yard rushing games in a season. Although he was held out of the end zone Sunday, he began the day leading the league with four rushing touchdowns of 25-plus yards. Barkley, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft, topped 1,000 yards three times in his six seasons with the Giants. He finished with 1,312 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in 2022 and rushed for 1,307 yards and 11 scores as a rookie. Eagles general manager Howie Roseman, who had been unwilling to spend on elite running backs, pounced on Barkley and the decision was celebrated as a success in Philly from the first game of the season. Barkley rushed for two scores and caught a TD pass in the opener against Green Bay. His three touchdowns were the most by an Eagles player in his debut since Terrell Owens in 2004. Barkley only soared in production and popularity from there, his highlight reel stamped by a reverse leap over the head of a Jacksonville defender last month. He's since vaulted over every running back ahead of him on the Eagles rushing list — and has a chance at NFL history. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/NFLQatar tribune Agencies China’s retaliatory export controls could take a toll on the growing US clean energy sector and its defense industry, analysts say, as a trade tussle escalates between the world’s two biggest economies. Beijing announced this week it would ban exports of gallium, germanium and antimony to the United States, targeting materials used for everything from semiconductors to solar cells. China also tightened restrictions on graphite, which is key to the electric vehicle industry. The moves, which Beijing said were to safeguard national security, swiftly followed Washington’s own curbs to hobble China’s ability to make advanced computer chips. While trade tensions have been simmering, US President-elect Donald Trump’s arrival at the White House in January is likely to ratchet up the temperature on trade - with the Republican already vowing sweeping tariffs on Chinese imports. Analysts say it would take time to assess the impact of the new Chinese curbs on US industries, though any immediate hit should be limited. Some see Beijing’s moves as symbolic for now, even as ramifications depend on how China enforces the new rules. “This certainly could drive up costs,” said Arun Seraphin of the National Defense Industrial Association. “It could create situations where you can’t produce what you need.” “It’s certainly going to drive a lot of uncertainty for companies who want to plan out their supply chain,” he told AFP. China is a major producer of the three metals in question. In August, it unveiled export controls on some antimony products and since then, shipments have plunged. Restrictions announced in 2023 on gallium and germanium also hit exports to the United States. “Gallium, germanium, and antimony are vital inputs for defense technologies,” said Gracelin Baskaran and Meredith Schwartz of the Center for Strategic and International Studies in a recent analysis. Gallium and germanium are increasingly preferred over traditional silicon for high-performance chips used in defense applications, CSIS added. It noted these materials have properties that boost device performance, speed, and energy efficiency. Antimony is used in fireproofing and has defense-related uses, too. While China is investing in munitions and buying high-end weapons systems more rapidly than the United States, the US industrial base lacks capacity to meet defense tech production needs, the report warned. “Bans on vital mineral inputs will only further allow China to outpace the United States in building these capabilities,” it said. The US Geological Survey estimates that if China’s net exports of gallium and germanium were completely restricted simultaneously, US GDP could decrease by $3.4 billion. Besides defense, gallium-based semiconductors are used in radio frequency electronics, LEDs for lighting and high-efficiency solar cells, the US Geological Survey noted. Although gasoline vehicles do not call for graphite, electric vehicles require an average of 136 pounds of the material, CSIS said. This could prove dicey for the United States, which has spurred billions in private sector investments for its domestic EV supply chain through subsidies via the Inflation Reduction Act. The act is a package of energy transition policy and social reforms under President Joe Biden. Seraphin told AFP that although Washington also pushed to attract investment and build up US semiconductor manufacturing capacity through the CHIPS and Science Act, these efforts do not yet target components such as germanium. 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rich9 agent login philippines Ayew's struggles with dribbling success can be attributed to a combination of factors. One possible explanation is his playing style and positioning on the field. As a forward playing for Crystal Palace, Ayew often finds himself facing well-organized defensive lines with limited space to maneuver. This makes it challenging for him to create opportunities to dribble past defenders successfully.

BNP Paribas Financial Markets cut its holdings in shares of Fastly, Inc. ( NYSE:FSLY – Free Report ) by 27.6% during the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 237,752 shares of the company’s stock after selling 90,597 shares during the period. BNP Paribas Financial Markets owned about 0.17% of Fastly worth $1,800,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of FSLY. Bank of Montreal Can boosted its stake in Fastly by 11,140.2% in the third quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 1,305,101 shares of the company’s stock worth $9,867,000 after purchasing an additional 1,293,490 shares in the last quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC lifted its position in Fastly by 18.8% during the 3rd quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC now owns 5,075,127 shares of the company’s stock worth $38,418,000 after buying an additional 801,968 shares in the last quarter. Point72 Asset Management L.P. grew its holdings in Fastly by 461.5% during the 2nd quarter. Point72 Asset Management L.P. now owns 756,380 shares of the company’s stock worth $5,575,000 after acquiring an additional 621,680 shares during the last quarter. Susquehanna Fundamental Investments LLC acquired a new stake in Fastly in the 2nd quarter valued at about $1,233,000. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. increased its position in Fastly by 18.0% in the 3rd quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 1,057,642 shares of the company’s stock valued at $8,006,000 after acquiring an additional 161,070 shares in the last quarter. 79.71% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Insider Buying and Selling In related news, CTO Artur Bergman sold 16,922 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $6.25, for a total transaction of $105,762.50. Following the completion of the sale, the chief technology officer now directly owns 6,138,900 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $38,368,125. This represents a 0.27 % decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link . Also, CFO Ronald W. Kisling sold 7,449 shares of Fastly stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $7.24, for a total transaction of $53,930.76. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 558,564 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,044,003.36. The trade was a 1.32 % decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In the last quarter, insiders have sold 185,600 shares of company stock valued at $1,402,681. 6.70% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Fastly Price Performance Fastly ( NYSE:FSLY – Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 6th. The company reported $0.02 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts’ consensus estimates of ($0.06) by $0.08. The firm had revenue of $137.21 million during the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $131.86 million. Fastly had a negative net margin of 27.47% and a negative return on equity of 13.24%. The business’s revenue for the quarter was up 7.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned ($0.33) earnings per share. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Fastly, Inc. will post -0.86 EPS for the current year. Analysts Set New Price Targets FSLY has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Piper Sandler increased their price target on shares of Fastly from $8.00 to $10.00 and gave the company a “neutral” rating in a research note on Tuesday, December 3rd. Craig Hallum increased their price objective on Fastly from $6.00 to $8.00 and gave the company a “hold” rating in a research report on Thursday, November 7th. Raymond James downgraded Fastly from a “strong-buy” rating to a “market perform” rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 1st. DA Davidson raised their price target on Fastly from $5.50 to $7.50 and gave the company a “neutral” rating in a report on Thursday, November 7th. Finally, Robert W. Baird lifted their price objective on Fastly from $7.00 to $8.00 and gave the stock a “neutral” rating in a research report on Thursday, November 7th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the company’s stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Fastly presently has a consensus rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of $8.55. Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on FSLY Fastly Profile ( Free Report ) Fastly, Inc operates an edge cloud platform for processing, serving, and securing its customer's applications in the United States, the Asia Pacific, Europe, and internationally. The edge cloud is a category of Infrastructure as a Service that enables developers to build, secure, and deliver digital experiences at the edge of the internet. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FSLY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Fastly, Inc. ( NYSE:FSLY – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for Fastly Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Fastly and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

Sony And Honda Set To Debut Collaborative EV Despite Trump Administration's Political Headwinds

The crash happened at 10.45am in crowded downtown Delray Beach, multiple news outlets reported. The Brightline train was stopped on the tracks, its front destroyed, about a block away from the Delray Beach fire rescue truck, its ladder ripped off and strewn in the grass several yards away, The Sun-Sentinel newspaper reported. The Delray Beach Fire Rescue said in a social media post that three Delray Beach firefighters were in stable condition at a hospital. Palm Beach County Fire Rescue took 12 people from the train to the hospital with minor injuries. Emmanuel Amaral rushed to the scene on his golf cart after hearing a loud crash and screeching train brakes from where he was having breakfast a couple of blocks away. He saw firefighters climbing out of the window of their damaged truck and pulling injured colleagues away from the tracks. One of their helmets came to rest several hundred feet away from the crash. “The front of that train is completely smashed, and there was even some of the parts to the fire truck stuck in the front of the train, but it split the car right in half. It split the fire truck right in half, and the debris was everywhere,” Mr Amaral said. Brightline officials did not immediately comment on the crash. A spokesperson for the National Transportation Safety Board said it was still gathering information about the crash and had not decided yet whether it will investigate. The NTSB is already investigating two crashes involving Brightline’s high-speed trains that killed three people early this year at the same crossing along the railroad’s route between Miami and Orlando. More than 100 people have died after being hit by trains since Brightline began operations in July 2017 – giving the railroad the worst death rate in the United States. But most of those deaths have been either suicides, pedestrians who tried to run across the tracks ahead of a train or drivers who went around crossing gates instead of waiting for a train to pass. Brightline has not been found to be at fault in those previous deaths.Local nonprofit sponsors Robeson County studentsrich9 com agent login 。

A Republican senator has stymied the promotion of Lieutenant General Christopher Donahue. Known for leading the 82nd Airborne Division during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, he faces a setback as the last soldier to exit the tumultuous region in 2021. The anonymous hold was placed by Senator Markwayne Mullin, who has yet to comment on his decision. Lieutenant General Donahue, nominated for a fourth star to lead the U.S. Army in Europe and Africa, remains at the center of political tensions, compounded by critique from President-elect Donald Trump. Trump has vocally criticized the military's Afghanistan withdrawal, eyeing an overhaul at the Pentagon. Despite internal military support from figures like Tony Thomas, former U.S. Special Operations Command head, who described Donahue as "a generational leader," the stalemate underscores the broader political landscape. (With inputs from agencies.)How ‘Grande Dame of Blockbusters’ Barbara Taylor Bradford made her £160m fortune – including selling £10m flat to starNEWS : The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has taken numerous year-end actions that will benefit consumers in the coming year. WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU : More money in your pocket, more protection from fraud and scams. Consumers may not realize that when they get a break in their favor, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is behind it. The CFPB was created in 2011, in the wake of the Great Recession, by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. It’s an independent federal agency that exists to make sure consumers are treated fairly, enforcing consumer financial laws and reviewing business practices to make sure they’re on the level and not ripping people off. It has a toll-free hotline and website for consumer complaints and two years ago set up an easy petition process to make it easier for organizations and consumers to petition the government for change (your right under the First Amendment). The CFPB has ended 2024 with a bang, taking action on several issues that will put money in consumer pockets, as well as finding new ways to keep consumers from getting ripped off or scammed. Enjoy it while you can – the Trump administration and Republican lawmakers in Washington, D.C., have promised they will curtail the agency’s powers. One of the new administration’s main focuses is to remove regulations and rules for big business, which means consumer wallets will take a beating. That’s a column for next month, though. Today, as 2024 comes to an end, let’s celebrate some of the gifts that the CFPB has given American’s working folks. The CFPB earlier this month announced that it is closing the loophole that allows large banks to charge excessive overdraft fees for account holders, which the agency considers junk fees. Overdraft fees, or NSF (non-sufficient funds) fees, cost American consumers billions a year, and have the most negative impact on low-income and marginalized consumers, who can least afford to lose their bank account or pay the cascading effect of fee upon fee. My first-ever It’s Your Money column, in December 2021 addressed overdraft fees and noted that some banks during the pandemic had quietly lowered or eliminated them. The new rules apply to the biggest banks – those with $10 billion in assets or more. When the agency first started looking at closing the overdraft loophole, it found that Wells Fargo and JPMorgan Chase accounted for more than $1 billion overdraft revenue reported by banks, one third of what was reported overall. The CFPB has gone after large banks, and continues to, to get them to return illegal overdraft fees to consumers. The agency reported in its December news release that it brought a $95 million enforcement action against Navy Federal Credit Union for illegal surprise overdraft fees. It also took action against Wells Fargo, Regions Bank, and Atlantic Union for illegal overdraft fees – $205 million, $141 million, and $5 million in unlawful fees respectively, the agency said. Banks claim that overdraft fees are the product of a practice that helps customers – the bank allows a payment that would normally be returned to go through. The fee, often $35 or more, is just the cost of doing business. When the bank covers your overdraft, technically its making a loan to you. So, overdraft protection is a very high-interest loan. Most consumers cover the overdraft in three days or less, but still pay that “high interest.” The whole overdraft fee thing started decades ago when people paid their bills using paper checks, which they mailed. Sometimes the checks would take weeks or more to clear the consumer’s bank account, and by then the money may no longer be there to cover it. Those fees didn’t account for much profit for banks back in the 1960s, when the Truth in Lending Law was drafted, so banks successfully lobbied for a loophole that exempted the fees from the rules other financial fees came under. So, unlike loans, the lenders weren’t required to disclose the fee to customers. Now, 50-plus years later, NSF fees are big money for banks. Most banks don’t give an account-holder the choice of overdraft protection (I’m old enough to remember when many did, and charged a fee for it). Once people started using debit cards, financial institutions “began raising fees and using the exemption to churn high volumes of overdraft loans on debit card transactions,” the CFPB said. Enrollment became automatic – it just happened without the customers realizing it. When the CFPB proposed the rule in 2023, it estimated 23 million households pay overdraft fees annually. Since the agency announced its initiative to curb junk fees, it said, many banks have started to reduce or eliminate them. Consumers have saved $6 billion annually because of that, the agency said. “However, even with these changes, consumers still paid more than $5.8 billion in 2023 in reported overdraft and NSF fees.” The new rule, which is scheduled to go into effect Oct. 1 (giving banks 10 months to figure out a plan or the new administration a chance to scuttle it) allows lenders to choose an option: Cap overdraft fees $5, which is the estimated amount most banks can cover costs associated with administering a courtesy overdraft program. Cap the fee at an amount that covers costs and losses “for banks that wish to offer overdraft as a convenient service rather than as a profit center,” the CFPB said. Disclose the terms of their overdraft loan just like other loans. If the lender wants to have a profit-making overdraft service, it must comply with standard requirements governing other loans, like credit cards. Customers must have a choice on whether to open the overdraft credit line, and the bank must provide account-opening disclosures that would allow comparison shopping, send periodic statements, and give the account-holder a choice of whether to pay automatically or manually. The CFPB is part of the White House Competition Council, a group of independent federal agencies and cabinet departments established by President Joe Biden’s 2021 Executive Order on Promoting Competition in the American Economy. The council includes the Federal Trade Commission and U.S. Department of Transportation, which also have taken action on junk fees. The overdraft fee action is part of the CFPB’s effort, as a member of that council, to tackle junk fees in general. Earlier this month, the CFPB returned $1.8 billion to 4.3 million Americans who were ripped off by “credit repair” businesses that charged illegal advance fees or used deceptive bait-and-switch advertising. Companies that engaged in these illegal practices included Lexington Law and CreditRepair.com. The refund constituted the largest-ever distribution from the CFPB’s victims relief fund, which is funded by civil penalties paid by companies that violate consumer protection laws, the agency said. A court ruled in August 2023 that the credit repair conglomerate violated the Telemarketing Sales Rule’s advance fee prohibition, which requires credit repair companies that engage in telemarketing to not collect fees until they provide documentation showing they have achieved the promised results, at least six months after the results were achieved. Following the court’s ruling on the suit, which was filed by the CFPB, the companies filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, shutting down 80% of their business operations, including their telemarketing call centers, the CFPB said. By the way, here’s tip if you’re looking for help repairing your credit or getting out from under credit debt: Find a nonprofit consumer credit agency. You can find one on the National Federation for Credit Counseling website. One big clue that an agency is a nonprofit is that it will have .org at the end of it’s url, not .com. If you opt for a for-profit debt settlement company, similar to the ones the CFPB came down on, keep an eye on fees, tax implications and the hit that your credit score will take. It’s a good idea to research for-profit debt settlement online before taking that leap. Digital non-bank payment apps like Venmo, Zelle, and GooglePay, have become incredibly popular. It may surprise you to learn that there is very little regulation, and that means a big opening to set you up to be scammed, among other things. The CFPB estimates that the most widely used apps process more than 13 billion consumer payments a year – this includes Apple, Google, Amazon, PayPal, Block, Venmo, and Zelle, among others. In late November, the agency finalized a rule to supervise the largest nonbank companies that offer digital funds transfer and payment wallet apps. The rule means that companies that handle more than 50 million transactions a year must follow the same federal law that applies to large banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions. The rule gives the CFPB authority to enforce financial law with these companies, particularly in these major areas: Privacy and Surveillance . Federal law allows consumers to opt out of certain data collection and sharing practices, and also prohibits misrepresentations about data protection practices. These large companies, which collect vast quantities of data about an individual’s transactions, should provide that option. Errors and Fraud. Consumers have the right, under federal law, to dispute transactions that are incorrect or fraudulent, and financial institutions must investigated such complaints. The agency said that’s particularly concerned “about how digital payment apps can be used to defraud older adults and active duty servicemembers.” It said that the payment apps should manage these issues on their own instead of designing their systems, which many do, to shift disputes to banks, credit unions, and credit card companies. Debanking. Consumers rely on payment apps and “can face serious harms when they lose access to their app without notice or when their ability to make or receive payments is disrupted.” Consumers have reported concerns to the CFPB about disruptions to their lives because of account closures or freezes. The agency’s supervision unit has also created a supervision technology program that assesses, among other things, technology and technology controls and its impact on compliance with federal consumer financial law. You’ve heard that your data is out there. That it’s sold. That bad people may use it for bad purposes. But like many people you may think, “Meh. Me? It just doesn’t seem like something to worry about.” Well, lucky for those who feel that way, the CFPB is still looking out for you. The agency proposed a rule in early December to rein in data brokers that sell sensitive personal and financial information that can be used to target and defraud consumers. The proposed rule would limit the sale of identifiers like Social Security numbers and phone numbers, and would make sure that financial data, like income, is only shared for legitimate purposes (facilitating a mortgage approval, for instance), and not sold to scammers targeting people who are in financial distress. The rule would clarify that when data brokers sell sensitive consumer information they are acting as a consumer reporting agency under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, “which requires them to comply with accuracy requirements, provide consumers access to their information, and maintain safeguards against misuse,” the agency said. The FCRA was enacted in 1970 “to, among other things, strictly limit the use of personal data by a growing data surveillance industry,” the CFPB pointed out in its news release about the proposed rule. It would ensure that the FCRA’s privacy protections protect consumers from technology that wasn’t even dreamed up when that law was enacted. The CFPB developed the proposed rule after “extensive market monitoring that revealed widespread evasion of consumer protections” by data brokers. The brokers claim they aren’t subject to FCRA requirements “even while selling the very types of sensitive personal and financial information Congress intended the law to protect,” the agency said. Data brokers “collect and sell detailed information about Americans’ personal lives and financial circumstances to anyone willing to pay,” the agency said in a news release. The proposal would address “critical threats” data-selling agencies pose, including: National security and surveillance risks . “Countries of concern,” like China and Russia, can buy detailed personal information about military service members, veterans, government employees, and other Americans for pennies per person, the CFPB said. “This enables the creation of detailed dossiers for potential espionage, surveillance, or blackmail operations, allowing relatively small investments to be leveraged into mass surveillance operations.” Criminal exploitation. Identity thieves and scammers buy financial profiles to target vulnerable consumers, particularly seniors and people who are in financial distress. The information is used to run fraud schemes and steal retirement savings, “often targeting Americans who can least afford the losses.” Violence, stalking, and personal safety threats to law enforcement personnel and domestic violence survivors: Dangerous people who target judges, law enforcement officers, government employees, domestic abuse survivors, or individuals in an unpopular profession can use contact information to stalk, threaten and harm. Perpetrators can buy current contact information in order to do that. To address these risks, under the rule: Any company that sells data about income or financial tier, credit history, credit score, or debt payments would be considered a consumer reporting agency required to comply with the FCRA, regardless of how the information is used. When consumer reporting agencies collect information like names, addresses, or ages for credit reports, any sale of that information would be covered by the FCRA’s protections. Companies relying on consumers’ consent to obtain or share a consumer’s credit report would need separate, explicit authorization to do so from the consumer, rather than burying permissions in fine print. “These changes would significantly limit the ability of data brokers to sell sensitive contact information that could be used to target, harass, or dox individuals seeking privacy protection, including domestic violence survivors,” the agency said. The proposed rule would preserve pathways created by the FCRA for government agencies to access consumer report information for legitimate law enforcement, counterterrorism, and counterintelligence purposes, it said. The proposed rule is part of a broader government-wide initiative to protect Americans’ sensitive personal data, complementing recent Executive Orders and actions by other federal agencies, CFPB said. In October, the Department of Justice proposed a rule to prevent access to Americans’ sensitive personal data by Russia, Iran, China, and other countries of concern. The rule hasn’t gone into effect yet – it goes through a public comment period, which ends in March, then is reviewed by several panels and agencies, before it becomes final, likely a year or so from now. It would likely be enacted in 2026. That means it’s still up to you to protect your data as best as you can. The CFPB earlier this month launched rulemaking to address the harmful effects of inaccurate credit reporting that negatively affects survivors of domestic, elder and other financial abuse. “People trapped by domestic abuse must often sign documents under the threat of violence, ruining their financial lives and making it even more difficult to escape,” CFPB Director Rohit Chopra said in a news release. “Expanding identity theft protections could help survivors rebuild their financial lives and would ensure that our credit reporting system is not used as a tool for domestic and elder abuse.” I wrote in April 2022 about financial abuse as a major, but unrecognized, factor in domestic abuse. The CFPB is on board, too. “Abusers often use coerced debt as a tool of control, forcing their partner or other family members to take out credit cards or loans through threats, physical violence, or manipulation,” the release said. “They may secretly open accounts in survivors’ names, force them to sign financial documents, or run up charges on existing accounts.” This type of financial abuse “creates substantial, long-lasting harm for survivors,” the agency said. Nearly three-quarters of domestic violence survivors report staying in abusive relationships longer in part because of coerced debt. “The impact falls particularly hard on women of color, who face higher rates of financial abuse resulting in nearly double the average debt burden,” the CFPB said. Once the debt is removed from survivors’ credit reports, credit scores for one-third improve by 20 points or more, enough to qualify for better rates on loans, the agency said. The agency seeks public comment on: The prevalence and extent of harm to people with coerced debt, including through the credit reporting system. Evidence regarding the relevance of coerced debt to a survivor’s credit risk. Barriers to accessing existing protection under federal or state law for survivors of economic abuse. Challenges resulting from coerced debt facing specific populations including survivors of intimate partner violence and gender-based violence, older Americans, and children in foster care. Potential documentation or self-attestation requirements for showing that a person’s debt was coerced. The rulemaking was in response to a petition submitted by the National Consumer Law Center and the Center for Survivor Agency and Justice. The agency established a petition process in 2022 “to help Americans exercise the constitutional rights to petition the government,” it said. “The new protocols ensure that there is an easy and transparent way to request action.” The deadline for submitting comments on the advance notice is March 7. It’s not the first time the agency has tackled abuse and its relation to credit. In 2022, the CFPB finalized a rule that prohibits credit bureaus from providing reports that contain negative information about human trafficking survivors when the information resulted from the trafficking. The CFPB is also working on identifying potential violations of these rules, it said. We’ll keep you updated on what goes on with these new rules and proposed ones. Banks and other financial institutions have fought hard against the agency’s junk fee rules and the Trump administration has promised “significant changes” to curtail the CFPB’s power. The Washington Post reported in November that Trump’s transition team is looking for candidates to lead the agency – likely pro-business and banking ones – and would also scale back its oversight. The agency is funded by the Federal Reserve, unlike most federal agencies, which are funded by Congress. It was done this way in order to keep its rule-making and enforcement independent of the political process. The law governing the CFPB sets a cap for its budget, which is adjusted for cost of living. The U.S. Supreme Court in May voted 7-2 that the funding method is constitutional after two trade associations representing payday (high-interest) lenders challenged it. In June, after the Supreme Court ruling, a group of Republican senators introduced the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Accountability Act, which would shift funding the agency to Congress. That bill didn’t pass, but is likely to come up again now that the Senate will and House will both have a Republican majority. The Trump administration and congressional Republicans campaigned on promises to reduce regulations on business. They are under increasing pressure from banks and other money-driven businesses and institutions to roll back rules that keep them from making higher profits, and have indicated they support that, too. You can reach Maureen Milliken at mmilliken@manchesterinklink.com We don’t spam! You're on the list! Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.

Big Ten could place four teams in playoff, thanks to IU's riseWhich mattresses are best for cold sleepers? With so much of our lives spent in bed, we all must get a restful night’s sleep so we’re ready to start the day energized. While our bodies naturally cool down as we wind down, some sleep much colder than others. The right mattress can help cold sleepers stay warm and cozy throughout the night. Most mattresses target your sleep position and not your temperature, which makes shopping around tricky. This guide can help you understand what makes the right mattress for cold sleepers and everything you need to know to sleep well. Our top pick, the DreamCloud Premier Rest 16-inch Mattress , is designed to regulate temperature for a comfortable sleep. What to know before buying a mattress for cold sleepers Type Cold sleepers should look to any mattress containing foam or latex, as these two materials trap heat more than other options, particularly breathable innerspring mattresses. While trapping in heat is a turnoff for some sleepers, those who are cold embrace the warmth kept within. Hybrid mattresses are increasingly popular. They feature a combination of foam or latex and innerspring layers to provide a balance of comfort and support. The foam or latex layers are typically the uppermost layers and help regulate temperature. Firmness How soft or firm the right mattress is for you is influenced mainly by your sleep position and size. Those who sleep on their stomach should avoid a soft mattress so that they don’t sink into the bed and strain their spine, but they should also avoid an extra-firm mattress that doesn’t support their hips and shoulders. Side sleepers should be cradled by a softer mattress with a bit of resistance for their shoulders and head. Back sleepers find firmer options most comfortable. Heavier individuals should avoid softer mattresses as they can sink in and not receive the proper support. Conversely, slighter persons may enjoy less firm mattresses since they can cradle them. What to look for in a quality mattress for cold sleepers Gel foam For some people, gel foam is a much-desired feature; however, cold sleepers should avoid foam or hybrid mattresses incorporating gel foam. This is because the gel helps offset the heat trappings of foam by adding cooling technology, making the mattress a good choice for those who sleep warm, not cold. Motion transfer Most mattresses that include foam or latex are adept at lessening motion transfer, meaning that one person’s rustling or movement won’t disturb the other person in bed. What’s more, foam and latex options tend to be quiet. How much you can expect to spend on a mattress for cold sleepers Foam, latex, and hybrid mattresses are pricier, especially those with multiple layers. Cold sleepers can expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 for a queen-size mattress. Mattress for cold sleepers FAQ How do I take care of my mattress? A. Investing in a mattress protector is wise, especially for a densely made mattress that traps heat. A mattress protector prevents dust, mites, and, in some cases, liquids from penetrating the mattress, which can cause an odor and lead to slow deterioration. Rotate your mattress every few months so it’s used evenly, especially if you have foam layers that may conform to your body. Does mattress size or thickness influence heat? A. Size and thickness don’t necessarily influence a mattress’s heat retention. Mattresses for cold sleepers come in all standard sizes. That choice should be made based on your size, available space and whether you sleep with a partner. Thickness ranges from around 6 to 14 inches. What’s the best mattress for cold sleepers to buy? Top mattress for cold sleepers DreamCloud Premier Rest 16-inch Mattress – Luxury Hybrid Memory Foam What you need to know: This high-quality, thick hybrid mattress has foam layers on top for a warm, cozy night’s sleep. What you’ll love: The innerspring base supports all sleep positions while foam layers hold in warmth. There’s no motion transfer or noise when moving. What you should consider: It may be too firm for petite individuals. Top mattress for cold sleepers for the money ZINUS 12 Inch Green Tea Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress What you need to know: This mattress offers both comfort and support at a reasonable price. What you’ll love: It includes layers of low-toxin foam that help maintain the temperature as you sleep. It’s also infused with green tea extract, which helps to fight against unwelcome odors. What you should consider: While it does say it includes cooling gel, it’s still too hot for some people. Worth checking out GhostBed 3D Matrix Mattress What you need to know: This adaptable mattress adjusts to your shape and temperature to create the most comfortable sleeping experience. What you’ll love: It’s a hybrid mattress that cradles the body while still supporting the shoulders and hips and lacks motion transfer. The top layers provide warmth and comfort. What you should consider: It may be too soft for heavier individuals. Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change. Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.The protest of Majlis-e-Wahdat Muslimeen (MWM) continued for the 5th consecutive day in the city on Saturday, with central sit-in at Numaish Chowrangi which was attended by several religious, political and social leaders. Sit-in protests hugely affected the flow of traffic on main arteries including Kala Chhapra - Sharea Faisal, M.A. Jinnah Road, Malir Kala Board, Sohrab Goth, Al Asif Square and Abbas Town as well as the link roads across the city. All vehicular traffic to the upcountry came to a halt due to protests and traffic jams. Traffic police were not seen controlling or diverting the traffic to alternate routes. Among notable figures were former Governor of Sindh Imran Ismail, PTI leader Mehmood Maulvi and MQM Pakistan leaders. Lawyers, human rights activists and social figures also joined the protest to express their solidarity. Addressing the sit-in, MWM central leader Allama Hassan Zafar Naqvi responded to the statement of the Mayor of Karachi regarding the sit-ins. He said that Murtaza Wahab had become the mayor on a fake mandate, and is now speaking the language of the establishment. He (Wahab) has not spoken on the closure of the roads of Parachinar for 80 days. It is pity that 130 innocent children died due to the closure of the road in Parachinar, but Murtaza Wahab remained silent. Criticising Wahab further, the MWM leader said that the authorities are more worried about roads than the sit-ins, so the mayor should better do what is he is supposed to do rather than adding injury to the wounds of the victims. He added that Karachi has always been the centre of protest politics. He demanded of Pakistan Peoples Party leadership take notice of Murtaza Wahab's anti-people statements. Addressing the participants of the sit-in, MQM leader Shabbir Qaimkhani said, "We are against oppression. As a party, we have been raising our voice against terrorism for the past 40 years. We condemn the incidents of terrorism in Parachinar." He urged that the roads to Parachinar should be opened immediately. We will raise an effective voice in the provincial assembly against this atrocity in Kurram Agency. Former Governor Sindh Imran Ismail said that the terrorist incident in Parachinar is not the first. Pilgrims were targeted by terrorists in Quetta and Balochistan earlier. "We do not accept those who spread sectarianism. All units in the country should express solidarity with the people of Parachinar," he stressed. Addressing the sit-in, Mehmood Maulvi said that he has heartfelt sympathy for the families of the martyrs and injured in Parachinar. "We stand with the people of Parachinar in this hour of difficulty," he said, adding that the current situation reflects the incompetence of the federal and provincial governments, who have not been able to open the roads there. The sit-in was attended by MQM's Coordination Committee Member Masood Mehmood, MNA Abdul Hafeez, MPA Najam Mirza, MPA Amir Siddiqui, Allama Manzar-ul-Haq Thanvi, Allama Baqir Hussain Zaidi, Allama Nisar Ahmed Qalandari, Maulana Muhammad Hassan Raisi, Shamsul Hassan Shamsi, Ishaq Quraiti, Malik Ghulam Abbas, Hassan Sagheer Abidi and others. COMMENTS Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive. For more information, please see ourTrailblazing Model Dayle Haddon Dies From Suspected Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

After Trump’s win, Black women are rethinking their role as America’s reliable political organizers

The crash happened at 10.45am in crowded downtown Delray Beach, multiple news outlets reported. The Brightline train was stopped on the tracks, its front destroyed, about a block away from the Delray Beach fire rescue truck, its ladder ripped off and strewn in the grass several yards away, The Sun-Sentinel newspaper reported. The Delray Beach Fire Rescue said in a social media post that three Delray Beach firefighters were in stable condition at a hospital. Palm Beach County Fire Rescue took 12 people from the train to the hospital with minor injuries. Emmanuel Amaral rushed to the scene on his golf cart after hearing a loud crash and screeching train brakes from where he was having breakfast a couple of blocks away. He saw firefighters climbing out of the window of their damaged truck and pulling injured colleagues away from the tracks. One of their helmets came to rest several hundred feet away from the crash. “The front of that train is completely smashed, and there was even some of the parts to the fire truck stuck in the front of the train, but it split the car right in half. It split the fire truck right in half, and the debris was everywhere,” Mr Amaral said. Brightline officials did not immediately comment on the crash. A spokesperson for the National Transportation Safety Board said it was still gathering information about the crash and had not decided yet whether it will investigate. The NTSB is already investigating two crashes involving Brightline’s high-speed trains that killed three people early this year at the same crossing along the railroad’s route between Miami and Orlando. More than 100 people have died after being hit by trains since Brightline began operations in July 2017 – giving the railroad the worst death rate in the United States. But most of those deaths have been either suicides, pedestrians who tried to run across the tracks ahead of a train or drivers who went around crossing gates instead of waiting for a train to pass. Brightline has not been found to be at fault in those previous deaths.

After Trump’s win, Black women are rethinking their role as America’s reliable political organizers

PHOENIX — With the stroke of a pen at 10:12 a.m. on Monday, Arizona now has a right to abortion in the state constitution. But the formal canvass of the vote on Proposition 139 by Gov. Katie Hobbs does not make the controversy or even the legal fights go away. Nor does it mean that women right now have the right to terminate a pregnancy after 15 weeks. In fact, this may be just the first step in what could be a months-long court battle. Attorney General Kris Mayes said she believes that the new constitutional amendment automatically overrides that 15-week state law. She said that should be obvious given that the initiative spelled out all abortions are legal without restrictions until fetal viability, generally considered between 22 and 24 weeks. And it also allows abortions beyond that point if a treating health care professional determines it is "necessary to protect the life or physical or mental health of the pregnant individual.'' Still, Mayes acknowledged that some doctors may not be willing to perform the procedure just yet, what with the risks of criminal and civil violations under the old law, but would rather wait for a court to issue a ruling. That's the case with Planned Parenthood Arizona where an official said it will not begin providing post 15-week abortions just yet but are "quickly staffing up and updating internal care protocols to position themselves to be able to provide care after 15 weeks as quickly as possible once legal clarity is established.'' And even Dr. Paul Isaacson, a Phoenix obstetrician and gynecologist who has been a major booster of the initiative, said he has no intention of terminating such pregnancies — at least not until a court actually rules that the 15-week law is no longer enforceable. Such a lawsuit is expected, perhaps as early as next week, from either the American Civil Liberties Union of Arizona or the Center for Reproductive Rights, both of which have been at the center of the state's abortion battles. All that, however, is just the beginning. There are a host of other laws on the books, ranging from waiting periods and clinic licensing to whether it's legal for a woman to terminate a pregnancy because of a fetal genetic defect. And then there's the yet-to-be-answered question of whether that fundamental right of abortion extends to minors. There's also the fact that Proposition 139 does not clearly preclude any regulation at all. It allows the enactment and enforcement of abortion laws that are "justified by a compelling state interest that is achieved by the least restrictive means.'' Supreme Court Chief Justice Ann Scott Timmer speaks Monday about the process of certifying Arizona election results during the formal canvass. She is joined (from left) by Attorney General Kris Mayes, Secretary of State Adrian Fontes and Gov. Katie Hobbs. The signing of voter-approved Proposition 139 could be the first step in months of court litigation over adding the right to an abortion to Arizona's state constitution. Mayes said hashing all that out could take time. "We're looking at a fair amount of litigation over the next two years,'' she told Capitol Media Services. For example, one is in the category of "informed consent." It creates a 24-hour waiting period between when a women seeks the procedure and when it can be performed. During that time, the doctor is supposed to provide information about the nature of the procedure, immediate and long-term medical risks, the probable gestational age of the fetus and alternatives to the procedure "that a reasonable person would consider material to the decision of whether or not to undergo the abortion.'' Women also need to be informed that medical assistance may be available for prenatal, childbirth and neonatal care. And they are to be told that the father is financially liable for support, even if he has offered to pay for the procedure. A separate statute requires performance of an ultrasound and record sounds of any heartbeat — and then offer the woman a chance to see or hear them. Mayes said she does not believe any of those fit within the "compelling state interest'' exception. "That's a very, very narrow exception,'' she said. "That could be for things like ensuring licensure of medical professionals so that women who are seeking an abortion can get an abortion from a licensed care provider.'' On that front, at least, Mayes is in agreement with Cathi Herrod, president of the anti-abortion Center for Arizona Policy. "We don't let just anyone perform different types of medically invasive surgery,'' Herrod said. But she sees the exception as broader than the attorney general. "Public health and safety should require that any medical facility be licensed, including abortion clinics,'' she said. Herrod pointed out that law was put in place following the 1998 death of Lou Ann Herron after a botched abortion. Ditto, Herrod said, of requirements for doctors at abortion clinics to have admitting privileges at a local hospital. That's just the beginning of what is going to have to be sorted out by the courts. Consider that current law says a minor cannot get an abortion without either parental consent or permission of a judge. Yet Proposition 139 extends that "fundamental right to abortion'' to all, regardless of age. Herrod said she believes the requirement for parental or court consent are defensible, even with the new constitutional measure, saying such measures "serve the public interest in providing for women's health and safety.'' Mayes, however, said she has no clear answer, saying that "probably will be litigated.'' There are other, more complex laws. One makes it illegal for a doctor to perform an abortion, knowing that the reason it is being sought is the race or sex of the fetus. That law was contested in court. But the lawsuit was thrown out when challengers could not show a judge that there actually was any person at the time who was denied an abortion because of the statute. So, it remains on the books. That, in turn, became the template for a 2021 law that outlaws performing an abortion if the doctor knows the patient wants the procedure because the fetus has a genetic abnormality. In fact, that law is still being litigated by doctors, including Isaacson, who contend the law overly vague. They say it it puts them at risk of facing not just criminal charges but civil fines and possible loss of their license to practice medicine if they simply counsel patients who come to them seeking care and possibly an abortion. What's also vague, the doctors say, is putting doctors in a position of figuring out whether a genetic defect is only one reason a woman might want an abortion — which would be legal under the law — or the sole reason, which the law makes a criminal offense. Herrod also contends that nothing in Proposition 139 overturns existing laws that forbid individuals from obtaining abortion pills by mail. That became an issue in the wake of the 2022 decision by the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade and its constitutional right to terminate a pregnancy. With some states returning to outright bans or restrictions, the federal Food and Drug Administration enacted rules allowing the interstate transfer of abortion pills. Arizona responded with its own state ban, one that Mayes considers null and void with the enactment of Prop 139. But the attorney general pointed out that even if the Arizona law is struck down, there's another risk on the horizon. There have been calls by some for Congress to enforce the Comstock Act, an 1873 law that makes it a crime to mail not just indecent materials across state lines but also anything "intended for producing an abortion.'' That, said the attorney general, would make it impossible for doctors to perform medication abortions as the drug is not manufactured here. Mayes said she will fight any such move, saying it interferes with states' rights. The bottom line for any challenges to existing laws could come down to what a court decides fits within that "compelling state interest'' exception to the fundamental right of abortion. Prop 139 itself seeks to provide some guidance, with a two-part test. First, it has to be enacted "for the limited purpose of improving or maintaining the health of an individual seeking abortion care.'' And all that has to be "consistent with accepted clinical standards of practice and evidence-based medicine.'' Gail Deady, a senior staff attorney at the Center for Reproductive Rights, said that is a very narrow exemption. "These regulations must respect a patient's right to make their own decisions about their health and can only be enacted if they make the procedure safer for the person seeking an abortion, using the least restrictive approach possible,'' she said. "Importantly, this rule does not allow the state to impose restrictions aimed at advancing other interests, like political or ideological goals, that have nothing to do with protecting the health of the patient,'' Deady said. Howard Fischer is a veteran journalist who has been reporting since 1970 and covering state politics and the Legislature since 1982. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, Bluesky , and Threads at @azcapmedia or email azcapmedia@gmail.com . Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.By KENYA HUNTER, Associated Press ATLANTA (AP) — As she checked into a recent flight to Mexico for vacation, Teja Smith chuckled at the idea of joining another Women’s March on Washington . As a Black woman, she just couldn’t see herself helping to replicate the largest act of resistance against then-President Donald Trump’s first term in January 2017. Even in an election this year where Trump questioned his opponent’s race , held rallies featuring racist insults and falsely claimed Black migrants in Ohio were eating residents’ pets , he didn’t just win a second term. He became the first Republican in two decades to clinch the popular vote, although by a small margin. “It’s like the people have spoken and this is what America looks like,” said Smith, the Los Angeles-based founder of the advocacy social media agency, Get Social. “And there’s not too much more fighting that you’re going to be able to do without losing your own sanity.” After Trump was declared the winner over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris , many politically engaged Black women said they were so dismayed by the outcome that they were reassessing — but not completely abandoning — their enthusiasm for electoral politics and movement organizing. Black women often carry much of the work of getting out the vote in their communities. They had vigorously supported the historic candidacy of Harris, who would have been the first woman of Black and South Asian descent to win the presidency. Harris’ loss spurred a wave of Black women across social media resolving to prioritize themselves, before giving so much to a country that over and over has shown its indifference to their concerns. AP VoteCast , a survey of more than 120,000 voters, found that 6 in 10 Black women said the future of democracy in the United States was the single most important factor for their vote this year, a higher share than for other demographic groups. But now, with Trump set to return to office in two months, some Black women are renewing calls to emphasize rest, focus on mental health and become more selective about what fight they lend their organizing power to. “America is going to have to save herself,” said LaTosha Brown, the co-founder of the national voting rights group Black Voters Matter. She compared Black women’s presence in social justice movements as “core strategists and core organizers” to the North Star, known as the most consistent and dependable star in the galaxy because of its seemingly fixed position in the sky. People can rely on Black women to lead change, Brown said, but the next four years will look different. “That’s not a herculean task that’s for us. We don’t want that title. ... I have no goals to be a martyr for a nation that cares nothing about me,” she said. AP VoteCast paints a clear picture of Black women’s concerns. Black female voters were most likely to say that democracy was the single most important factor for their vote, compared to other motivators such as high prices or abortion. More than 7 in 10 Black female voters said they were “very concerned” that electing Trump would lead the nation toward authoritarianism, while only about 2 in 10 said this about Harris. About 9 in 10 Black female voters supported Harris in 2024, according to AP VoteCast, similar to the share that backed Democrat Joe Biden in 2020. Trump received support from more than half of white voters, who made up the vast majority of his coalition in both years. Like voters overall, Black women were most likely to say the economy and jobs were the most important issues facing the country, with about one-third saying that. But they were more likely than many other groups to say that abortion and racism were the top issues, and much less likely than other groups to say immigration was the top issue. Despite those concerns, which were well-voiced by Black women throughout the campaign, increased support from young men of color and white women helped expand Trump’s lead and secured his victory. Politically engaged Black women said they don’t plan to continue positioning themselves in the vertebrae of the “backbone” of America’s democracy. The growing movement prompting Black women to withdraw is a shift from history, where they are often present and at the forefront of political and social change. One of the earliest examples is the women’s suffrage movement that led to ratification in 1920 of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution , which gave women the right to vote. Black women, however, were prevented from voting for decades afterward because of Jim Crow-era literacy tests, poll taxes and laws that blocked the grandchildren of slaves from voting. Most Black women couldn’t vote until the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Black women were among the organizers and counted among the marchers brutalized on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Alabama, during the historic march in 1965 from Selma to Montgomery that preceded federal legislation. Decades later, Black women were prominent organizers of the Black Lives Matter movement in response to the deaths of Black Americans at the hands of police and vigilantes. In his 2024 campaign, Trump called for leveraging federal money to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs in government programs and discussions of race, gender or sexual orientation in schools. His rhetoric on immigration, including false claims that Black Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, were eating cats and dogs, drove support for his plan to deport millions of people . Tenita Taylor, a Black resident of Atlanta who supported Trump this year, said she was initially excited about Harris’ candidacy. But after thinking about how high her grocery bills have been, she feels that voting for Trump in hopes of finally getting lower prices was a form of self-prioritization. “People say, ‘Well, that’s selfish, it was gonna be better for the greater good,”’ she said. “I’m a mother of five kids. ... The things that (Democrats) do either affect the rich or the poor.” Some of Trump’s plans affect people in Olivia Gordon’s immediate community, which is why she struggled to get behind the “Black women rest” wave. Gordon, a New York-based lawyer who supported the Party for Socialism and Liberation’s presidential nominee, Claudia de la Cruz, worries about who may be left behind if the 92% of Black women voters who backed Harris simply stopped advocating. “We’re talking millions of Black women here. If millions of Black women take a step back, it absolutely leaves holes, but for other Black women,” she said. “I think we sometimes are in the bubble of if it’s not in your immediate circle, maybe it doesn’t apply to you. And I truly implore people to understand that it does.” Nicole Lewis, an Alabama-based therapist who specializes in treating Black women’s stress, said she’s aware that Black women withdrawing from social impact movements could have a fallout. But she also hopes that it forces a reckoning for the nation to understand the consequences of not standing in solidarity with Black women. “It could impact things negatively because there isn’t that voice from the most empathetic group,” she said. “I also think it’s going to give other groups an opportunity to step up. ... My hope is that they do show up for themselves and everyone else.” Brown said a reckoning might be exactly what the country needs, but it’s a reckoning for everyone else. Black women, she said, did their job when they supported Harris in droves in hopes they could thwart the massive changes expected under Trump. “This ain’t our reckoning,” she said. “I don’t feel no guilt.” AP polling editor Amelia Thomson DeVeaux and Associated Press writer Linley Sanders in Washington contributed to this report. The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

Ambeon Holdings ups stake in Seylan Bank; strengthens financial services footprint

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Workday stock slips on light quarterly forecastThe term "medical aesthetics" itself implies a combination of medicine and beauty. This signifies that any procedure performed under this category should adhere to medical standards and guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals. It is essential for both patients and practitioners to understand that cosmetic enhancements, no matter how minor, involve medical interventions that can have potential risks and complications if not handled correctly.

Moreover, this case underscores the importance of open communication and transparency within families when it comes to financial matters. The lack of awareness about the man's extensive insurance investments has not only exacerbated the current crisis but has also raised questions about the level of trust and accountability within the family unit.Radical Jaguar rebrand and new logo sparks ire online NEW YORK (AP) — A promotional video for a rebrand of British luxury car brand Jaguar is being criticized online for showing models in brightly colored outfits — and no car. The rebrand, which includes a new logo, is slated to launch Dec. 2 during Miami Art Week, when the company will unveil a new electric model. But Jaguar Land Rover, a unit of India’s Tata Motors Ltd., has been promoting it online. The Jaguar brand is in the middle of a transition to going all-electric. “Copy Nothing,” marketing materials read. “We’re here to delete the ordinary. To go bold. To copy nothing.” Trump has promised again to release the last JFK files. But experts say don’t expect big revelations DALLAS (AP) — The nation is set to mark 61 years since President John F. Kennedy was assassinated as his motorcade passed through downtown Dallas on Nov. 22, 1963. Even after over six decades, conspiracy theories about what happened that day still swirl and the desire to follow every thread of information hasn’t waned. President-elect Donald Trump made promises over the summer that if reelected he would declassify the remaining records. At this point, only a few thousand of millions of pages of governmental records related to the assassination have yet to be fully released. And those who have studied what's been released so far say that the public shouldn’t anticipate any earth-shattering revelations even if the remaining files are declassified. Bitcoin is at the doorstep of $100,000 as post-election rally rolls on NEW YORK (AP) — Bitcoin is jumping again, rising above $98,000 for the first time Thursday. The cryptocurrency has been shattering records almost daily since the U.S. presidential election, and has rocketed more than 40% higher in just two weeks. It's now at the doorstep of $100,000. Cryptocurrencies and related investments like crypto exchange-traded funds have rallied because the incoming Trump administration is expected to be more “crypto-friendly.” Still, as with everything in the volatile cryptoverse, the future is hard to predict. And while some are bullish, other experts continue to warn of investment risks. NFL issues security alert to teams and the players' union following recent burglaries The NFL has issued a security alert to teams and the players’ union following recent burglaries involving the homes of Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. In a memo obtained by The Associated Press, the league says homes of professional athletes across multiple sports have become “increasingly targeted for burglaries by organized and skilled groups.” Law enforcement officials noted these groups target the homes on days the athletes have games. Players were told to take precautions and implement home security measures to reduce the risk of being targeted. Some of the burglary groups have conducted extensive surveillance on targets. Penn State wins trademark case over retailer's use of vintage logos, images PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Penn State has won a closely watched trademark fight over an online retailer’s use of its vintage logos and images. A Pennsylvania jury awarded Penn State $28,000 in damages earlier this week over products made and sold by the firms Vintage Brand and Sportswear Inc. Penn State accused them of selling “counterfeit” clothing and accessories. The defendants said their website makes clear they are not affiliated with Penn State. At least a dozen other schools have sued the defendants on similar grounds, but the Pennsylvania case was the first to go to trial. Has a waltz written by composer Frederic Chopin been discovered in an NYC museum? NEW YORK (AP) — A previously unknown musical work written by composer Frederic Chopin appears to have been found in a library in New York City. The Morgan Library & Museum says the untitled and unsigned piece is the first new manuscript of the Romantic era virtuoso to be discovered in nearly a century. Robinson McClellan, the museum’s curator, says he stumbled across the work in May while going through a collection brought to the Manhattan museum years earlier. He worked with outside experts to verify the document's authenticity. But there’s debate whether the waltz is an original Chopin work or merely one written in his hand. Volcano on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula erupts for the 7th time in a year GRINDAVIK, Iceland (AP) — A volcano on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern Iceland is spewing lava from a fissure in its seventh eruption since December. Iceland's seismic monitors said the eruption started with little warning late Wednesday and created a long fissure but looked to be smaller than eruptions in August and May. Around 50 houses were evacuated after the Civil Protection agency issued the alert, along with guests at the famous Blue Lagoon resort, according to the national broadcaster. The repeated eruptions over the past year have caused damage to the town of Grindavík and forced people to relocate. Australian teen and British woman who drank tainted alcohol in Laos have died, bringing toll to 5 VIENTIANE, Laos (AP) — An Australian teenager and a British woman have died after drinking tainted alcohol in Laos in what Australia’s prime minister said was every parent’s nightmare. Officials earlier said an American and two Danish tourists also had died following reports that multiple people had been sickened in town popular with backpackers. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told Parliament that 19-year-old Bianca Jones had died after being evacuated from Vang Vieng, Laos, for treatment in a Thai hospital. Her friend, also 19, remains hospitalized in Thailand. Later Thursday, Britain said a British woman also died and the media in the U.K. identified her as 28-year-old Simone White. US ahead in AI innovation, easily surpassing China in Stanford's new ranking The U.S. leads the world in developing artificial intelligence technology, surpassing China in research and other important measures of AI innovation, according to a newly released Stanford University index. There’s no surefire way to rank global AI leadership but Stanford researchers have made an attempt by measuring the “vibrancy” of the AI industry across a variety of dimensions, from how much research and investment is happening to how responsibly the technology is being pursued to prevent harm. Following the U.S. and China were the United Kingdom, India and the United Arab Emirates. Pop star Ed Sheeran helps favorite soccer team sign player before getting on stage with Taylor Swift It turns out British pop star Ed Sheeran is also good at recruiting soccer players. Sheeran is a minority shareholder at English soccer team Ipswich Town and it needed his help over the summer to get a player to join the club. Ipswich CEO Mark Ashton tells a Soccerex industry event in Miami: “Ed jumped on a Zoom call with him at the training ground, just before he stepped on stage with Taylor Swift. Hopefully that was a key part in getting the player across the line.” Ashton didn’t disclose the player in question, saying only: “He’s certainly scoring a few goals.”In a bid to gain a competitive edge, banks are sweetening their deposit offerings with a range of incentives, such as bonus interest rates, cash rebates, and other perks. Some banks are even offering limited-time promotions with sky-high interest rates to lure in customers and boost their deposit base.

Atlanta Special Needs Planning Lawyer Trace Brooks Releases Article on Special Needs Trust Contribution Limits in Georgia 12-13-2024 07:42 PM CET | Politics, Law & Society Press release from: ABNewswire Atlanta special needs planning lawyer Trace Brooks ( https://www.tracebrookslaw.com/how-much-money-can-be-put-in-a-special-needs-trust-in-georgia/ ), of Trace Brooks Law, addresses a pressing question for families in Georgia: "How Much Money Can Be Put in a Special Needs Trust?" Special Needs Trusts (SNTs) are crucial financial tools for families looking to provide for a loved one with disabilities without jeopardizing access to essential government benefits. Trace Brooks provides valuable insights into these trusts, specifically discussing contribution considerations, regulations, and effective practices that families need to manage in Georgia. Special Needs Trusts enable families to set aside funds for disabled individuals without these resources counting as personal assets, which could otherwise disqualify them from government aid such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The Atlanta special needs planning lawyer understands the complex aspects of these financial tools, particularly regarding the contribution limits and state-specific regulations governing SNTs in Georgia. This nuanced approach helps ensure that families have access to legal guidance tailored to their unique circumstances. According to Atlanta special needs planning lawyer Trace Brooks, families often wonder if there's a maximum amount they can contribute to an SNT and how these limits impact their loved one's eligibility for essential support services. Trace Brooks explains, "Georgia does not impose a specific state-level maximum contribution limit for Special Needs Trusts. However, contributions must be carefully managed to maintain the beneficiary's eligibility for federal benefits such as Medicaid and SSI." They note that for first-party SNTs funded with the beneficiary's own assets, the funds should ideally be contributed before the beneficiary reaches the age of 65 to avoid potential complications with benefit eligibility. This careful planning allows families to build financial security without risking the support their loved one relies on. For Georgia residents, the firm outlines various types of Special Needs Trusts, each designed to meet different familial and financial needs. Third-party Special Needs Trusts are typically established by a family member, using assets that never belonged to the beneficiary, allowing parents or relatives to provide for a disabled individual's needs as part of their estate planning. First-party Special Needs Trusts are funded by the beneficiary's assets, such as an inheritance or personal injury settlement, and contain a Medicaid repayment provision to cover care costs upon the beneficiary's passing. Pooled Trusts, managed by nonprofits, pool resources from multiple beneficiaries, providing investment advantages for those with fewer assets. Trace Brooks Law emphasizes the importance of correctly managing SNT contributions to avoid disqualifying the beneficiary from receiving Medicaid or SSI. While there is no formal cap on the amount that can be placed in an SNT, distributions must align with federal regulations to maintain eligibility for government programs. Direct cash payments to the beneficiary could jeopardize SSI eligibility, so the trust should instead fund other aspects of their life, such as medical needs not covered by Medicaid, transportation, and personal enrichment activities. Trust distributions are best directed to third-party providers or institutions, which prevents funds from being counted as personal income, thereby preserving eligibility for benefits. When considering the funding sources, Trace Brooks Law advises that any gifts or inheritances be directed to a third-party SNT instead of the beneficiary to protect their access to benefits. Estate documents should explicitly reflect this arrangement, allowing families to manage gifts or inheritances effectively. Special Needs Trusts also offer flexibility to adapt to the changing needs of beneficiaries over time. For individuals with disabilities, circumstances can evolve due to shifts in health, living arrangements, or personal requirements. A well-funded SNT allows families to adjust distributions and other trust terms, providing a steady financial base that responds to their loved one's needs. Trace Brooks Law encourages Georgia families to approach special needs planning with a proactive mindset. Crafting a detailed and legally sound SNT can allow families to secure not only the current well-being but also the future stability of their loved ones with disabilities. This security enables disabled beneficiaries to continue accessing government benefits while enjoying an enriched quality of life supported by the trust. About Trace Brooks Law: Trace Brooks Law is an Atlanta-based legal firm that can provide comprehensive support in special needs planning, including Special Needs Trusts (SNTs) that preserve government benefits while meeting individual financial goals. The firm can guide clients through Georgia's special needs regulations, offering tailored solutions to secure their loved one's future. Trace Brooks Law's commitment to client-centered planning can allow families to trust that their loved ones will receive the resources and support they need, now and in the years to come. Embeds: Youtube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qb-aa4tbcs GMB: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=16944830140697754407 Email and website Email: trace@tracebrookslaw.com Website: https://www.tracebrookslaw.com/ Media Contact Company Name: Trace Brooks Law Contact Person: Trace Brooks Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=atlanta-special-needs-planning-lawyer-trace-brooks-releases-article-on-special-needs-trust-contribution-limits-in-georgia ] Phone: (404) 492-9559 Address:1275 Peachtree St NE #525 City: Atlanta State: Georgia 30309 Country: United States Website: https://www.tracebrookslaw.com/ This release was published on openPR.Title: Beijing Property Market Continues to Heat Up as Inventory Plummets – What Signals Does this Sudden Drop in Stockpile Reveal?While Zheng Qinxin may have missed out on the top honor this year, her journey in professional tennis is far from over. With her talent and determination, there is no doubt that she will continue to make waves in the tennis world and possibly become a future contender for the WTA Player of the Year award.

Martin Odegaard restores rhythm as five-goal Arsenal thrash SportingAnother factor that could impact the future of the Syrian regime is external pressure from the international community. Western countries, along with regional powers such as Turkey and Saudi Arabia, have long called for Assad to step down and have supported various opposition groups in their fight against the regime. Continued diplomatic and economic pressure from these countries could weaken the regime's position and pave the way for a political transition in Syria.

Serhiy Tokarev Explains Why Health Tech Startups Are Worth Investing InAs the dust settles on the defeat to Bayern Munich, Barcelona must now look to the future and make bold decisions to reshape the team for the challenges ahead. Setien's appointment was supposed to usher in a new era of success for the club, but the crushing defeat has raised doubts about whether he is the right man for the job.

League fines Hawks $100,000 for Young missing NBA Cup gameIt was a special night at Rogers Arena on Thursday for numerous reasons as the Vancouver Canucks hosted the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers. Forward J.T. Miller returned to the lineup following a leave of absence for personal reasons and for Brock Boeser, it marked his 500th game in the National Hockey League. During the second period of Thursday night's game, Brock Boeser managed to light the lamp, which was assisted by J.T. Miller to give the Vancouver Canucks a 3-0 lead. In doing so, Brock Boeser became the 14th player in Vancouver Canucks franchise history to score in their 500th game in the National Hockey League, according to Sportsnet Stats. Brock Boeser comments on scoring in his 500th NHL game After the game, Brock Boeser met with reporters and opened up on how it felt to not only reach the 500 game milestone, but also to score against the Panthers. Boeser said that he's a loyal person and to be able to score in game 500 with the Vancouver Canucks means a lot to him. The Burnsville, Minnesota native has had a pretty good season for the Vancouver Canucks so far, registering 19 points (eight goals, 11 assists), 14 penalty minutes and is a minus-three in 21 games. It's an important season for Brock Boeser too, as he's set to become an unrestricted free agent next summer and wants to prove to everyone that last season's 40-goals wasn't a fluke and he's worth a long-term deal with a higher cap hit than the $6.65 million he's currently earning. Reports earlier this week stated that Brock Boeser is looking for an eight-year contract with an average annual value north of $8 million USD. We'll have to wait and see what the rest of the season has in store for Brock Boeser and if he's able to agree to terms on a new contract with the Vancouver Canucks before free agency opens on July 1st. This article first appeared on Canucks Daily and was syndicated with permission.

In conclusion, the recent news of the Yunnan Fire Department's 39 search and rescue dogs facing challenges in their "Test of Duty" serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and appreciating the hard work and sacrifices made by these incredible animals. While the road ahead may pose obstacles, the unwavering support and love from the public will undoubtedly help these furry heroes overcome any challenges they may face. Let us continue to stand by them, cheering them on as they fulfill their noble mission of saving lives and making the world a better place.Throughout the live stream event, viewers will have the opportunity to participate in a series of challenges, trivia contests, and interactive games to win a chance to receive a free PS5. Whether showcasing their gaming skills, testing their knowledge of PlayStation history, or engaging in friendly competitions with fellow players, participants will be in for an action-packed evening filled with excitement and surprises.

DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks have been down this road before. Luka Doncic has yet another injury that will sideline him for at least a week. A recent MRI revealed the Mavericks superstar suffered a right wrist sprain in Monday’s dominant NBA Cup victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. It’s Doncic’s fourth injury since the start of training camp, although this one is directly associated with his shooting hand, unlike the previous three leg injuries. Doncic will miss the team’s upcoming three-leg road trip in Denver, Miami and Atlanta, along with next Wednesday’s home game against former Mavericks guard Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks. “Injuries are a part of sport and unfortunately he’s a had a couple of here early,” Mavericks coach Jason Kidd said. “Hopefully that means he won’t have any going forward. After this last one, hopefully he’s clean for the rest of the way.” Doncic finished with 26 points, five rebounds and five assists in Monday’s win, but his right wrist was wrapped during the fourth quarter and his postgame news conference. He was uncertain about the origin of the injury but didn’t express concern. “I started feeling it in the first quarter,” Doncic said. “From there, it got worse, but nothing serious.” Doncic missed training camp and the preseason with a left calf contusion. He also suffered a left groin strain and a right knee contusion in a five-day span, but he played through those injuries until missing his first game of the season Sunday in Oklahoma City. Doncic has had several injuries — primarily to his lower body — throughout his seven NBA seasons, but this is the first to affect his wrist. A left thumb sprain in March 2020 caused him to miss one game. The Mavericks have a combined 34-43 record in the regular season and postseason without Doncic, and they’re off to a 1-0 mark this season. Daniel Gafford said Dallas needs to be “near perfect” on the offensive end to compensate without Doncic, but the strategy remains intact. “Pretty much just the same mindset: Next man up,” Gafford said. “Just be ready to guard the best man or just have the best man guard you. It’s going to be a lot on Kai [Kyrie Irving]. It’s going to be a lot on Klay [Thompson], but I feel like we’ve done a pretty good job whenever Luka has been off the floor.” Irving is expected to be the Mavericks’ main source of offense while Doncic is out, but it might not have to be the case because of the expanded depth of the roster. P.J. Washington had a career night and was one of seven players who scored in double figures in the 121-119 win over the Thunder. Irving scored 23 points and dished six assists. Gafford had a double-double off the bench with 11 points and 12 rebounds. Gafford said Irving’s ability to play away from the ball for long periods instead of initiating the offense on nearly every possession is vital. “It’s really important because you got a guy that understands the game,” he said. “We just have to be confident and be willing to figure out the trust that he’s given us to pretty much make plays without him being in the play the majority of the time, knowing down the stretch he’s going to have the ball in his hands sooner or later.” Gafford is averaging a career-high 12.5 points per game with 6.5 rebounds. Kidd attributed his career best in attempts (7.5) to the Mavericks’ intention to play through him on offense compared to the back half of last season. He’s expected to receive more touches in Doncic’s absence. Dallas will also ask Jaden Hardy and Quentin Grimes to pick up some of the scoring load. The Mavericks (8-7, 1-1) enter Friday’s game with an opportunity to leapfrog Denver (8-5, 1-1) in the NBA Cup’s West Group C standings. A fourth consecutive win would be ideal, but it’ll be a tall task without Doncic. Still, Dallas appears to embrace the challenge. “We’ll be fine, in the sense that this won’t be new,” Kidd said. “A lot of minutes for a lot of guys.” ©2024 The Dallas Morning News. Visit dallasnews.com . Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.On the other hand, the addition of a seasoned attacker could also bring benefits to Barcelona, especially in terms of depth and versatility. With the demands of a long and grueling season, having experienced players who can provide quality performances off the bench or in rotation can be invaluable. The attacker's skill set and ability to score goals could provide a valuable alternative in matches where creativity and finishing are needed most.

Brussels to demand UK surrenders fishing rights and follows EU lawsThe implications of these allegations extend beyond the world of sports, as they raise broader questions about the intersection of finance and sports, the role of financial institutions in sports ownership, and the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of sports clubs.

Outside, the students and teachers of Maple Leaf High looked on, their hearts touched by the poignant scene unfolding before them. Here was a young man who had overcome obstacles and challenges with the help of a dedicated teacher, returning to express his gratitude and show her the fruits of her labor. It was a reminder of the power of mentorship, of the lasting impact that a caring teacher can have on a student's life.The husband of prominent Iranian human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh has been detained by security forces, according to their daughter. Mehraveh Khandan said on Instagram that her father, Reza Khandan, was arrested on December 13 at her home in Tehran. The circumstances of Khandan's arrest and the charges against him were not known. Mohammad Moghimi, a lawyer, said on X that the reason for the arrest was likely related to a six-year prison sentence in a case in which he represented Reza Khandan and activist Farhad Meysami. The sentence against Reza Khandan was handed down in February 2019 by Tehran's Revolutionary Court. Meysami also faced a similar sentence in the case. Reza Khandan had been charged with "assembly and collusion against national security," "propaganda against the state," and "spreading and promoting unveiling in society." The sentence against Reza Khandan also banned him from membership in political parties and groups, leaving the country, and using the Internet and other media and press activities. Sotoudeh, a vocal advocate for numerous activists, has been arrested several times since 2010. Her detention has included periods of solitary confinement, highlighting the challenges faced by human rights defenders in Iran. Sotoudeh was arrested last year during the funeral of 17-year-old Armita Garavand, who died of injuries suffered in an alleged confrontation with Iran's morality police in the Tehran subway over a violation of Iran’s compulsory head scarf law. Reza Khandan said at the time of his wife's arrest in October 2023 that she started a hunger and medication strike after she was severely beaten when she was taken into custody. Sotoudeh was released about two weeks later. Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, in his first public comments since Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was ousted , accused the United States and Israel of orchestrating the rebel uprising that toppled the regime over the weekend. Khamenei on December 11 also implicitly blamed Turkey for the lightning push of Syrian rebels who reached Damascus from their strongholds in the northwest with little resistance. "It should not be doubted that what happened in Syria was the product of a joint American and Zionist plot," he said. "Yes, a neighboring government of Syria plays, played, and is playing a clear role...but the main conspirator, mastermind, and command center are in America and the Zionist regime," Khamenei added. The U.S.-designated terrorist organization Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and its allies -- some of whom are linked with Turkey -- ousted Assad on December 8, less than two weeks after launching their offensive. Syria under Assad served as a crucial part of a land corridor connecting Iran to the Levant, which was considered the logistical backbone of the so-called axis of resistance -- Iran's loose network of regional proxies and allies. Iran spent billions of dollars and sent military advisers to Syria to ensure Assad remained in power when civil war broke out in 2011. Russia -- where the ousted Syrian leader has been granted political asylum -- also backed Assad, while Turkey has supported rebel groups who aimed to topple the regime. A Khamenei adviser once described Syria as the "golden ring" in the chain connecting Iran to its Lebanese partner, Hezbollah. With the ring broken and Hezbollah's capabilities degraded after a devastating war with Israel, experts say the axis has become severely weak. Khamenei said only "ignorant and uninformed analysts" would assess that the axis has become weak and vowed that its reach "will expand across the region more than before." Reza Alijani, an Iranian political analyst based in France, told RFE/RL's Radio Farda that Khamenei's comments were more "trash talk" than anything else. "The axis may not have been defeated, but it has suffered a serious blow and the Islamic republics arms in the region have been deal major hits," he said. Alijani argued that factions within the Islamic republic's core support base may be starting to question Khamenei's policies and vision after the recent setbacks, which he said is a cause for concern among the clerical establishment's top brass. Welcome back to the China In Eurasia briefing, an RFE/RL newsletter tracking China's resurgent influence from Eastern Europe to Central Asia. I'm RFE/RL correspondent Reid Standish and I'm back after a reporting trip in Taiwan. I'm off again for the holidays but will be back here with another newsletter at the end of the year. Here's what I'm following right now. Beijing Watches Assad Fall The full effects from the swift collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria is still playing out on the ground, but his sudden fall is set to shake up the Middle East and beyond. Here's what it means for China. Finding Perspective: China has been aligned with Assad since Syria's civil war began in 2011 but largely through its close ties to Russia and Iran, which backed the Syrian leader. At the United Nations, Beijing has often voted with Moscow, blocking condemnations of Assad as well as cross-border aid. Beijing supported the Assad regime with eight vetoes at the UN, which is half the total vetoes China has ever used. Beijing significantly reduced its presence in Syria amid the conflict, though it kept building close ties with Assad, eventually culminating in his state visit to China in 2023. Chinese investment in Syria was scarce, and beyond a strategic partnership agreement and a pledge to join the Belt and Road Initiative there has been essentially no Chinese investment in Syria and no major contracts with Chinese firms in the country since 2010. So why did Beijing throw its weight behind Assad? Revisiting The Arab Spring: For Beijing, the biggest issue was the symbolism and appearance of stability that Assad represented, especially given he was first threatened by a popular uprising that then set the Syrian civil war in motion. The spread of revolutions in the Arab world in 2011 was alarming for the Chinese Communist Party. Inside China at the time, popular grumbling with corruption at various levels of government was common, and the party was concerned the protests across the Middle East could inspire its own population, especially given simmering tensions in Tibet and Xinjiang at the time. Added to that was the rise of the Islamic State in Syria. The war led to thousands of Uyghurs, the predominantly Muslim group from western China, traveling to Syria to fight against the Syrian government. Many of those fighters said they were there to learn how to use weapons and then return to China, and fears over the return of battle-hardened fighters to Xinjiang was one of the pretexts Xi expressed to top party brass to launch the crackdown and camp system in western China that targeted the Uyghur population, according to a set of leaked internal government documents obtained by the New York Times. Why It Matters: From this logic, Beijing's support for Assad makes sense, but it's a big bet that hasn't paid off. The fall of Assad is also a reflection of the weakened regional power of two of its main partners: Iran and Russia. Their inability to prop up Assad indicates they've been consumed by the wars in Gaza, Lebanon, and Ukraine, which may be a concern for Beijing looking ahead. The rapid collapse of the Syrian government is also an unwelcome message at home for Beijing, which was reflected in the way Chinese media covered the events for Chinese viewers. As images circulated around the world of jubilant crowds and the toppling of statues, Chinese state media's coverage on CCTV mostly centered around a fixed live shot of Damascus without a crowd in sight. Three More Stories From Eurasia 1. China Flexes Its Muscles Around Taiwan Beijing said it is taking "necessary measures" to defend the country's sovereignty and will not tolerate "separatist" activities, as Taiwan reported another rise in Chinese warplanes and ships near the island. The Details: Taiwan's Defense Ministry said China was deploying its largest navy fleet in regional waters in nearly three decades, posing a threat to Taiwan that is more pronounced than previous Chinese war games. China, which views Taiwan as its own territory, had been expected to launch drills to express its anger at President Lai Ching-te's tour of the Pacific that ended last week, which included stopovers in Hawaii and the U.S. territory of Guam. Without any announcement from China on military drills, Taiwan officials are calling the ongoing activity a training exercise and warned it could be used to further violate Taiwan's territorial boundaries. China, which views Lai as a separatist, held major military exercises around Taiwan following his inauguration in May and his National Day speech in October. It also held a major drill after Nancy Pelosi, then the speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, visited Taiwan in 2022. 2. The California Connection A Chinese company that owns a California electronics distributor has sent hundreds of shipments of restricted dual-use technology to Russia since the Kremlin's invasion of Ukraine, including to sanctioned companies with ties to the Russian military, my colleagues Mike Eckel and Mark Krutov report . What You Need To Know: The findings further highlight the difficulty Western countries have had in trying to choke off the Russian military's access to Western technology for use in its weapons and operations as its war on Ukraine continues. At least one component manufactured by the company, Yangzhou Yangjie Electronic Technology Company Limited, was found in a Russian weapons guidance system recovered from the battlefield in Ukraine, according to a public database maintained by the Ukrainian military. Yangjie Technology, located in the city of Yangzhou northwest of Shanghai, has sent more than 200 shipments of specific goods to Russia since the start of its full-scale invasion in February 2022, according to customs records obtained by C4ADS, a Washington-based, nonprofit data-analysis and global-research organization. The listed contents of those shipments -- totaling at least 238 -- included electronic components categorized as "high-priority" by the United States due to their potential use in Russian weapons systems, according to the data obtained by C4ADS and shared with RFE/RL, which independently corroborated more than 150 such shipments. 3. China And Serbia Eye New Cooperation On Extraditions Serbia has extradited five Chinese citizens in the past five years, according to data obtained by my colleague Mila Manojlovic from RFE/RL's Balkan Service. What It Means: The data shows extraditions are already taking place. That cooperation is also set to grow as Serbia's Justice Ministry prepares to submit to parliament a draft extradition law with China that, if passed, would expand the scope of cooperation between Beijing and Belgrade. That extradition deal, which would regulate the bilateral extradition of citizens charged with crimes, is seen by experts as a response to the influx of tourists and Chinese nationals to Serbia that have corresponded with high-profile Chinese investments and loans for projects through the BRI. According to data from Serbia's National Employment Service, more than 45,000 work permits have been issued to Chinese citizens since 2016, the year the ruling Serbian Progressive Party started intensifying relations with Beijing and expanding BRI projects. Serbia's Interior Ministry told RFE/RL there are currently 3,433 Chinese citizens registered in the country. Across The Supercontinent Looking at 2025: Here's my look at what's on Taiwan's agenda as we prepare to enter 2025, as part of a wider lookahead from across RFE/RL coverage region. My segment begins at 7:25. Train Links: The first train carrying goods from China to Afghanistan arrived in Mazar-e Sharif on November 23 after crossing through Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The Taliban said 55 containers arrived in Afghanistan after a 22-day journey, marking the inauguration of the first direct train link between China and Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. The New Normal: From attacks in Pakistan to new episodes in Tajikistan, my colleagues Bashir Ahmad Gwakh and Frud Bezhan look at how new violence in South and Central Asia could affect Chinese investment projects across the region. A Late Warning: German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on December 2 warned her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi that Beijing's support for Russia would "impact" ties with Europe. One Thing To Watch According to a draft sanctions package obtaind by RFE/RL, the European Union has proposed for the first time to target Chinese companies and individuals with visa bans and asset freezes over their dealings with Russian firms linked to Moscow's war effort in Ukraine. The draft version of the sanctions package was first shared with EU countries on November 22 and would still need to be approved before the end of the year by all 27 member states in order to come into effect. That's all from me for now. Don't forget to send me any questions, comments, or tips that you might have. Until next time, Reid Standish If you enjoyed this briefing and don't want to miss the next edition, subscribe here . It will be sent to your inbox every Wednesday. Syria's interim prime minister took power with the support of the rebels who ousted President Bashar al-Assad as outside powers -- including Russia, Turkey, the United States, and Israel -- maneuvered to protect their geopolitical interests in the war-torn Middle East nation. In an address on recently captured state TV, Muhammad al-Bashir said he would lead Syria's interim authority through March 1 as the new rulers, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) militants, looked to solidify control after deposing Assad over the weekend. Little-known Bashir, born in Idlib Province in 1982 and an engineering graduate, had once worked for Syria's state gas entity and has served as head of the rebel's so-called Salvation Government for the past year. HTS has been designated a terrorist group by the United States and the European Union. In recent years, the group severed ties with Al-Qaeda and sought to remake itself as a pragmatic alternative to the Syrian government, although Western powers and rights groups remain cautious. Meanwhile, Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, on December 10 told NBC News that Moscow is providing sanctuary to Assad after transporting him there "in the most secure way possible." He didn't provide further details. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in Moscow on December 9 that President Vladimir Putin made the decision personally to grant asylum to Assad and his family. Earlier on December 10, loud explosions were heard amid reports Israel has been systematically striking Syrian military installations following the ouster of Assad’s brutal regime. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed that the military had struck several Syrian sites and had hit its naval vessels in overnight strikes. "The [military] has been operating in Syria in recent days to strike and destroy strategic capabilities that threaten the State of Israel. The navy operated last night to destroy the Syrian fleet with great success," Katz said. Katz said Israel’s military has been ordered to create a weapons-free zone in southern Syria "to prevent the establishment and organization of terrorism] in the country. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, said Israel had "destroyed the most important military sites in Syria," including “airports and their warehouses, aircraft squadrons, radars, military signal stations, and many weapons and ammunition depots in various locations in most Syrian governorates." The reports came as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel is "transforming the face of the Middle East" and defeating its enemies "step by step" in what he called an "existential war that has been imposed upon us." Netanyahu said Assad's regime had been a "central element of Iran's axis of evil," accusing it of facilitating a "weapons pipeline" between Iran and the Lebanon's Hezbollah militia, which has been declared a terrorist organization by the United States. Israel has launched a monthslong air campaign in Lebanon against Hezbollah. Washington has also conducted some 75 air strikes on Islamic State (IS) militants, who still have a presence in Syria, in recent days to prevent the group from taking advantage of the turmoil that followed Assad's fall. "You can expect that kind of activity will continue. We don't want to give [IS] an opportunity to exploit what is going on," White House national-security spokesman John Kirby said on December 10. The United States has about 900 troops in Syria as part of its decade-long fight against IS. "[IS] will try to use this period to reestablish its capabilities, to create safe havens," U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on December 9. "As our precision strikes over the weekend demonstrate, we are determined not to let that happen." Washington said it is seeking ways to engage with Syrian rebel groups and is reaching out to partners in the region, including Turkey, to initiate informal contacts. "We have the ability to communicate with the opposition groups, and we'll continue to do that," Kirby said in his briefing. The Syrian Observatory also said IS militants killed at least 54 government soldiers who were fleeing advancing rebels "during the collapse of the regime" in the Sukhna area of Homs Province. The report could not immediately be verified. Meanwhile, satellite imagery by Planet Labs showed Russian naval ships have left their Syrian base at Tartus, with some dropping anchor offshore. Imagery showed at least three vessels -- including two guided missile frigates -- some 13 kilometers off the coast. Russia has an estimated 7,500 troops and multiple military sites in Syria, including an air base at Hmeimim along with the strategic naval facilities at Tartus, which are also used to support the Kremlin's actions in North and sub-Saharan Africa. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose government has ties to many of the rebel groups involved in the takeover, said Ankara will act against anyone seeking to compromise its Syrian territory. "From now on, we cannot allow Syria to be divided again.... Any attack on the freedom of the Syrian people, the stability of the new administration, and the integrity of its lands will find us standing against it," he said. Turkey has claimed U.S.-backed Syrian-Kurdish fighters in northeast Syria to be "terrorists" linked to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has been designated as a terrorist group by Ankara, as well as by Washington. Tehran, which was also a long-standing backer of Assad, on December 10 said some 4,000 Iranian citizens have left Syria over the past three days. Iranian proxies are thought to have multiple military sites inside Syria, some of which have been hit by Israeli air attacks, but the government has so far been relatively muted in its response to Assad's fall. On December 9, the UN Security Council held a closed-door meeting on the situation in Syria called by Russia, which together with Iran, has been a main backer of Assad's regime. "The Council, I think, was more or less united on the need to preserve the territorial integrity and unity of Syria, to ensure the protection of civilians, to ensure that humanitarian aid is coming to the population in need," said Russia's UN ambassador, Vasily Nebenzya, in a statement released after the meeting. The HTS-led rebels announced on December 9 that they were granting amnesty to all military personnel conscripted during Assad's rule, which began in 2000 following the death of his father, Hafez al-Assad, who had seized power in 1970. Ahmad al-Sharaa, 42, previously known by the nom de guerre Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, has become the public face of HTS, which itself was formerly known as the Al Nusra Front, among other names. Several European states on December 9 announced they were suspending the granting of asylum requests from Syrians as they awaited developments. The flood of Syrian refugees during the country's 14-year civil war has often been used by far-right politicians in Europe to inflame passions and bolster their support among voters. The EU has urged a peaceful political transition in Syria, saying that "it is imperative that all stakeholders engage in an inclusive, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned dialogue on all key issues." But EU spokesman Anouar El Anouni said the bloc was "not currently engaging with HTS or its leaders, full stop." The Syrian civil war began after Assad's regime unleashed a brutal crackdown in March 2011 against peaceful demonstrators inspired by the wave of protests known as the Arab Spring that were sweeping the Middle East at the time. Beginning in 2015, Russia intervened in the civil war on Assad's side, unleashing a massive bombing campaign against the rebel groups, including Islamist militants, causing numerous civilian casualties and prompting tens of thousands to flee. The fall of the Assad regime marks a major geopolitical setback for the Kremlin, which, along with Iran, has propped up his government, experts say. Iran spent decades building the so-called axis of resistance, its network of regional armed proxies, Tehran-backed militant groups, and allied state actors. The network was the lynchpin of Tehran's efforts to deter Israel and the United States and exert its influence across the Middle East. But the fall of the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, an ally of Tehran, has done irreparable damage to the network, analysts say. For Iran, Syria provided a crucial land corridor to the Levant that was considered the logistical backbone of the axis. The corridor, also known as the Shi'ite Crescent, connected Tehran to the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah, a key ally and an integral part of the axis. "There is no axis without access," said Ali Vaez, director of the Iran Project at the Brussels-based International Crisis Group. "The resistance is not done, but losing the ability to logistically support Hezbollah means the loss of Iran's strategic depth." Broken Corridor Underscoring Syria's importance, Iran spent billions of dollars to keep Assad in power. Tehran intervened militarily in Syria's civil war in 2013 and played a key role in shoring up Assad's forces. It deployed hundreds of Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) officers to recruit and train tens of thousands of local and foreign Shi'ite fighters. After the loss of the land corridor connecting axis members from Iran to Lebanon, "we are likely to see a much-diminished resistance in the coming months and years," said Farzan Sabet, senior research associate at the Geneva Graduate Institute. The axis, he said, will have "a considerably lower capacity to rebuild or conduct military operations in the future." At its height, the axis was active in the Palestinian Occupied Territories, Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen, and was meant to give Iran the ability to hit its enemies outside its own borders while allowing it to maintain a position of plausible deniability. But the axis has suffered a series of debilitating setbacks in recent months. Syria is now effectively ruled by the U.S.-designated terrorist organization Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and its allies -- some of whom are linked with Turkey, Iran's rival. The HTS seized power in Damascus on December 8. Hezbollah has been severely weakened after a bruising, yearlong war with Israel, which killed the group's longtime leader , Hassan Nasrallah. Meanwhile, Israel's devastating war in the Gaza Strip has diminished the capabilities of U.S.-designated Palestinian terrorist organization Hamas, another axis member. Events in Syria "will certainly place significantly more restraints on Iran’s ability to maintain its regional influence," said Raz Zimmt, senior researcher at the Israeli-based Institute for National Security Studies. Iran's 'Very Bad' Options Weakened regionally, Iran now has tough decisions to make, including reconsidering its deterrence strategy and possibly developing a nuclear bomb, experts say. Zimmt says Iran has two "very bad options" -- to do nothing and recognize that its deterrence against Israel has been compromised, or weaponize its nuclear program and expose itself to the possibility of an Israeli attack. Things look equally grim for Iran’s axis of resistance, according to Sabet, who says Tehran will be under pressure to pull back its regional activities. Sabet says Iran will seek to exploit any potential chaos in the region, including in post-Assad Syria, to reassert its influence. "If the civil war in Syria is not quickly settled and a new order created, it might become precisely the type of environment where the Islamic republic has historically thrived," Sabet said. The collapse of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime sparked nationwide celebrations, as scenes of jubilation and chaos unfolded across the country. In the early hours of December 8, videos emerged on social media showing groups of people gathering on Umayyad Square in Damascus, a key landmark in the capital. Thousands more joined them throughout the day, with some participants climbing atop a tank. Social media footage verified by RFE/RL showed people exiting the central bank building in Damascus carrying bags and boxes. Looting was reported in the capital and in other cities across the country, according to multiple eyewitness accounts. At the gates of the presidential palace in Damascus, video footage captured jubilant men cheering and firing weapons into the air. People were seen entering the palace freely throughout the day after Assad fled the country. Russian state media reported later on December 8 that he and his family had arrived in Moscow and been granted asylum. Video footage from inside the palace showed crowds milling around, as well as people carrying out furniture and valuables, leaving trashed rooms behind them. Verified video footage obtained by RFE/RL also showed the building of the Syrian Interior Ministry's immigration and passport department ablaze in Damascus. Statues of Assad's late father, Hafez al-Assad, who created the authoritarian system his son inherited, were dismantled nationwide after a lightning-fast rebel offensive. On Arwad Island, off the coast of Tartus and around 10 kilometers from a Russian naval base, jubilant crowds toppled a statue of the elder Assad, who died in 2000, and climbed onto the monument in celebration. In Latakia, a coastal town that was a stronghold of the Assad family, another statue of Hafez al-Assad was torn down and dragged through the streets behind a truck as revelers rode atop it. Images also showed the aftermath of the storming of the Iranian Embassy in Damascus, which appeared to have been abandoned earlier on December 8. Iranian media reported that diplomats had already evacuated the premises. President-elect Donald Trump said Russia and Iran are in a "weakened state" and called on Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin to end the nearly three-year war in Ukraine. Trump made the comments in a post on Truth Social on December 8 as Syrian rebels captured Damascus , ending the half-century rule of the Russia- and Iran-backed Assad family. The incoming U.S. president said Russia and Iran couldn't come to the support of Syrian dictator Assad because they were in a "weakened state right now, one because of Ukraine and a bad economy, the other because of Israel and its fighting success." Russia has lost about 600,000 soldiers since invading Ukraine in February 2022, Trump said, adding that Ukraine has lost about 400,000 defending its territory. "There should be an immediate cease-fire and negotiations should begin," Trump said. "I know Vladimir well. This is his time to act. China can help. The world is waiting!" The Kremlin did not immediately respond to Trump's comment. Paris Meeting Trump said in the post that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy "would like to make a deal." Trump held talks with Zelenskiy and French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on December 7 to discuss the war. Zelenskiy called the trilateral talks "good and productive" and said the leaders discussed the potential for "a just peace." Trump and Zelenskiy were among world leaders who gathered in Paris on December 7 to mark the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral. "We talked about our people, the situation on the battlefield, and a just peace for Ukraine. We all want to end this war as quickly and fairly as possible," Zelenskiy said in a December 7 post on Telegram . "President Trump, as always, is determined. We are thankful for that," he added. Macron said , "Let us continue joint efforts for peace, security." Trump , who will take office on January 20, has criticized the tens of billions of dollars the United States has poured into Ukraine since Russia launched its invasion. He has claimed he could end the war within 24 hours of retaking the White House, a statement that has been interpreted as meaning that Ukraine would have to surrender territory that Russia now occupies. Experts say it will be difficult to hammer out a peace deal quickly because there are so many aspects, including security guarantees for Ukraine and sanctions relief for Russia. In the meantime, the outgoing Biden administration has been accelerating weapons shipments to Ukraine ahead of the transfer of power to Trump to bolster its defenses. Washington said on December 7 that it is preparing a $988 million package of arms and equipment to Ukraine, funds taken from the remaining $2.21 billion available in the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. The funds will be used to buy precision missiles for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), and for drones, the Pentagon said. European countries are also stepping up aid in case the Trump administration ends U.S. support for Kyiv. Zelenskiy announced on December 7 that Ukraine had received a second shipment of sophisticated F-16 fighter jets from Denmark. Copenhagen announced last year it would deliver a total of 19 aircraft to Ukraine. "The second batch of F-16s for Ukraine from Denmark is already in Ukraine. This is the leadership in protecting life that distinguishes Denmark," he wrote on Telegram . Syrian rebels led by Islamist militants have entered the central city of Homs as they close in on Damascus while the country’s main allies -- Russia and Iran -- scrambled to protect the regime of authoritarian President Bashar al-Assad and their own assets in the country. Abu Mohammad al-Golani, a leader of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) rebel group, said late on December 7 that the insurgent fighters were "in the final moments of liberating" Homs, a city of 775,000 people. HTS is considered a terrorist group by the United States, Britain, Canada, and the European Union. Experts said the future of the Assad regime was hanging in the balance -- and that, if it fell, it would also represent a major geopolitical setback for the Kremlin which, along with Tehran, has supported the Syrian government through many years of civil war. Media reports said many residents of Damascus were stocking up on supplies as thousands were attempting to leave the country through the border with Lebanon -- itself a war-torn nation in the increasingly chaotic Middle East. As fighting on the ground and rebel gains intensified, the foreign ministers of Russia, Iran, and Turkey held emergency talks in Doha, Qatar, on December 7 calling for an end to hostilities in the most serious challenge to Assad’s rule in years. The U.S. State Department told RFE/RL that Washington was closely monitoring the situation on the ground in Syria. A spokesperson said the United States and its partners and allies urged that civilians, including members of minority groups, be protected. The spokesperson said it was time to negotiate an end to the Syrian conflict consistent with principals established in UN Security Council Resolution 2254. The spokesperson added that the refusal of the Assad regime to engage in the process has directly led to the current situation. The U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War ( ISW ) said that “Assad regime forces have collapsed and Assad’s backers do not appear willing to bolster the Syrian Arab Army by rapidly deploying additional forces.” Russia has multiple military sites in Syria, including an air base at Hmeimim and strategic naval facilities at Tartus, which are also used to support the Kremlin’s actions in Africa. The ISW said that Moscow had not yet begun to evacuate the base, “but it remains unclear whether Russia will keep its vessels at the port as Syrian rebels continue to advance swiftly across regime-held territory.” The American Enterprise Institute’s Critical Threats blog said the Assad regime “faces an existential threat given the widespread collapse of regime forces and lack of sufficient external backing to bolster these forces.” It added that “Russia will face logistic challenges that will undermine its Africa operations if it loses its footprint in Syria.” Mark Katz, a professor emeritus at George Mason University who focuses on Russia and the Middle East, told RFE/RL that the Kremlin risks losing its air assets in Syria if it can’t agree with Turkey on the use of its airspace. “In one sense, the Turkish government might be happy to grant permission as the more the Russian Air Force is out of Syria, the happier Ankara will be,” he said. "Russia would also face difficulties relocating its warships because they would need Turkey's permission to get into the Black Sea. They would have to go through NATO waters," he added. Meanwhile, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump said the United States “should have nothing to do” with the war in Syria, where a small contingent of U.S. forces remain deployed in some areas. "Syria is a mess, but is not our friend, & THE UNITED STATES SHOULD HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH IT,” he wrote on the Truth Social platform. “THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT. LET IT PLAY OUT. DO NOT GET INVOLVED!” Fast-moving developments on the ground were difficult to confirm, but media outlets quoted witnesses as well as rebel and Syrian army sources as saying militant fighters were continuing to make large gains on December 7 in their effort to topple Assad. Some reported signs of panic in Damascus, with shortages of critical supplies, although the government said Assad was at work as usual in the capital. Government forces and their Russian allies appear to have failed in their attempt to halt the rebel push toward Homs, which stands at an important intersection between the capital, Damascus, and Syria’s coastal provinces of Latakia and Tartus. Homs is 140 kilometers from the capital. Witnesses and army sources told Reuters and other news agencies that rebels had entered Homs amid reports that government forces had pulled out. Celebrations were reported in some areas of the city. Homs Province is Syria’s largest in size and borders Lebanon, Iraq, and Jordan. The city is also home to one of Syria’s two state-run oil refineries. The AFP news agency quoted security sources as saying hundreds of Syrian government troops, some injured, had fled across the border into Iraq. The surprising offensive was launched last week by a coalition of rebel groups led by the Islamist HTS faction. Besides HTS, the fighters include forces of an umbrella group of Turkish-backed Syrian militias called the Syrian National Army. Turkey has denied backing the offensive, though experts say insurgents would not have launched it without the country's consent. The U.K.-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group said civilians were fleeing from Homs toward the Mediterranean coastal regions of Latakia and Tartus, strongholds of the government and the site of the Russian air and naval bases. Russia Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov declined to comment on the fate of the Russian bases, saying he “wasn’t in the business of guessing.” The United Nations said on December 6 that almost 300,000 people in Syria had already been displaced since late November by the fighting, and that up to 1.5 million could be forced to flee as the rebels advance and inflict losses on Assad, as well as his Russian and Iranian allies. Assad has relied on Iran and Russia to remain in power since the conflict erupted in 2011. Following the foreign ministers' meeting in Doha, Lavrov said -- referring to HTS rebels -- that it was "inadmissible to allow terrorist groups" to take control of Syrian territory and that Russia would oppose them with all means possible. Since the rebels seized control of Aleppo a week ago, they have moved on to capture other major cities with Assad’s forces providing little resistance. Besides capturing Aleppo in the north, Hama in the center, and Deir al-Zor in the east, rebels rose up in southern Suweida and Deraa, saying on December 6 they had taken control of the two cities and posting videos showing insurgent celebrations there. Taking Deraa and Suweida in the south could allow a concerted assault on the capital, Damascus, the seat of Assad's power, military sources said. Video posted online showed protesters in the Damascus suburb of Jaramana chanting and tearing down a statue of Assad’s father, Hafez al-Assad, who ruled Syria from 1971 until his death in 2000, when his son took power. Golani, the HTS leader, told CNN in an exclusive interview on December 5 from Syria that Assad’s government was bound to fall, propped up only by Russia and Iran. “The seeds of the regime’s defeat have always been within it,” he said. “But the truth remains, this regime is dead.” Iran is poised to significantly increase the production rate of highly enriched uranium, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has warned in a confidential report. The IAEA report said the effect of the change "would be to significantly increase the rate of production of uranium enriched up to 60 percent," according to news agencies quoting the report on December 6. This means the rate of production will jump to more than 34 kilograms of highly enriched uranium per month at its Fordow facility alone, compared to 4.7 kilograms previously, the report to the IAEA's board of governors says. IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi, who spoke to reporters about the report on the sidelines of an international conference in Bahrain, said the increase would represent “seven or eight times or even more," calling the development very concerning. “They were preparing, and they have all of these facilities sort of in abeyance and now they are activating that. So we are going to see,” he said, adding that it would be a “huge jump” if Iran begins increasing its enrichment. The report also said Iran must implement tougher safeguard measures such as inspections to ensure Fordow is not being "misused to produce uranium of an enrichment level higher than that declared by Iran, and that there is no diversion of declared nuclear material." Iran's decision to accelerate production of enriched uranium is in response to recent censure by the IAEA, Grossi told the AFP news agency. "This is a message. This is a clear message that they are responding to what they feel is pressure," the UN nuclear watchdog's head said. Tehran was angered by a resolution last month put forward by Britain, Germany, and France, known as the E3, and the United States that faulted Iran's cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog. Britain, Germany, and France have adopted a tougher stance on Iran in recent months, in particular since Tehran ramped up its military support to Russia. In addition, there was little progress last week when European and Iranian officials met to determine whether they could enter serious talks on the nuclear program before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump returns to the White House in January. Trump pulled the United States out of the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers and is now appointing hawks on Iran to his planned administration. While Iran maintains its program is peaceful, Iranian officials increasingly threaten to potentially seek a nuclear bomb and an intercontinental ballistic missile. But experts war that the enrichment of uranium at 60 percent is just a short step away from weapons-grade levels of 90 percent, and they say there is no justification for enriching uranium to such a high level under any civilian program. The news of Iran's decision to increase uranium enrichment came just hours after Tehran claimed it had conducted a successful space launch with its heaviest payload ever. Official media reported that the launch of the Simorgh rocket took place at Iran’s Imam Khomeini Spaceport in Semnan Province located about 220 kilometers east of Tehran. Western governments have expressed concern that the Tehran’s ballistic missile program is coming closer to having the ability to launch a weapon against distant foes like the United States. The Simorgh carried what Iran described as an “orbital propulsion system” and two research systems to a 400-kilometer orbit above the Earth. It also carried the Fakhr-1 satellite for Iran’s military, the first time Iran’s civilian program is known to have carried a military payload. Iran has said its space program, like its nuclear activities, is for purely civilian purposes. Russian forces bombed a key bridge and highway to try and slow a lightning advance by rebels toward the Syrian city of Homs as thousands fled the area. The U.K.-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group said civilians were fleeing from Homs towards the Mediterranean coastal regions of Latakia and Tartus, strongholds of the government and the site of Russian air and naval bases. The United Nations said on December 6 that almost 300,000 people in Syria had already been displaced since late November by the fighting, and that up to 1.5 million could be forced to flee as the rebels advance and deal losses to the country's president, Bashar al-Assad, as well as his allies in Russia and Iran. Assad has relied on Iran and Russia to remain in power since the conflict erupted in 2011. A Syrian Army officer was quoted by Reuters as saying that Russian bombing overnight had destroyed the Rastan bridge along the key M5 highway linking Homs to Hama, another city the rebels captured a day earlier. The rebels, led by Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have made major advances over the past several days, including the capture of Aleppo, the country's largest city, as well as 14 central villages and towns, and gotten as close as 35 kilometers from the Russian-operated Khmeimim air base. HTS is considered a terrorist group by the United States, Britain, Canada, and the European Union. Hama, Syria's fourth-largest city, is key to the defense of Damascus and the gateway to the coastal cities of Tartus and Latakia, the former being home to a strategic Russian naval base. In his first media interview in several years, Abu Muhammad al-Julani, the group's leader, told CNN the goal "remains to overthrow the Bashar al-Assad regime, and it is our right to use all available means to achieve this goal." Besides HTS, the rebels also include an umbrella group of Turkish-backed Syrian militias called the Syrian National Army. The foreign ministers of Iraq, Syria, and Iran were to meet on December 6 to discuss the situation, while Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the top diplomats from Moscow, Tehran, and Ankara will meet in Qatar on December 7. The state news agency TASS reported on December 6 that Russia's embassy in Syria had urged Russian nationals to leave the country due to the situation. Lengthy prison terms, hefty fines, and travel bans. Those are among the punishments facing women who violate Iran's new hijab law. Approved on November 30, the Hijab And Chastity law has triggered uproar in the Islamic republic, where even senior clerics have criticized it. The 74-article law also calls on the public to report alleged violators to the police and penalizes businesses and taxi drivers who refuse to do so. "You cannot even call this a law," Nasrin Sotoudeh, a prominent activist and human rights lawyer based in Iran, told RFE/RL's Radio Farda. Laws are meant to protect citizens, she said, but the new legislation "robs women of their security on the streets." A growing number of Iranian women have refused to wear the mandatory head scarf -- a key pillar of Iran's Islamic system. The hijab was central to the unprecedented protests that erupted across Iran in 2022. The demonstrations were triggered by the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, a young woman who was arrested for allegedly violating the hijab law. During the protests, women and girls removed and burned their head scarves. The authorities waged a brutal crackdown on protesters, killing hundreds and arresting thousands. Sotoudeh said many Iranians want those responsible for the deaths to be "punished." Instead, she said, "lawmakers passed a bill in a vengeful act against women and men." She warned that critics "will take steps" if the law is not repealed, suggesting that protests may be planned. Sotoudeh has been in and out of prison for years for her activism and taking up sensitive legal cases, including women detained for peacefully protesting the mandatory hijab. 'Unimplementable' Law In recent years, the authorities have doubled down on their enforcement of the hijab. They have reintroduced patrols by the so-called morality police that were suspended in the wake of the 2022 protests. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) has also established a new unit in Tehran to enforce the hijab. Its members are called "ambassadors of kindness." In November, the Tehran Headquarters for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice announced the creation of a "clinic" to offer "scientific and psychological treatment" to women who refuse to follow the Islamic dress code. In response, Iranian psychologists raised the alarm about the consequences of "labeling healthy people as sick." Sotoudeh and Sedigheh Vasmaghi, a rights activist and Islamic scholar, slammed the new hijab law as "shameful" and "medieval" in a joint statement issued on December 1. The new legislation has proved so controversial that President Masud Pezeshkian said on live television on December 2 that "it cannot be easily implemented." He also questioned the new penalties for convicted hijab violators. Even several senior clerics have warned against enforcing the new law. "Not only are large parts of this law unimplementable...but it defeats its purpose and will lead to the youth hating religious teachings," Ayatollah Mostafa Mohaqeq Damad wrote in an open letter to top clerics on December 2. In a joint statement on December 4, three prominent guilds representing the entertainment industry said any law that "turns your homeland into a big prison is meaningless" and urged the authorities to repeal it. Britain’s counterterrorism police say they are awaiting the extradition of two Romanian men who are suspects in the stabbing in March of a journalist working for a Persian-language media organization in London. Britain's Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said on December 5 that Nandito Badea, 19, and George Stana, 23, had been arrested in Romania and charged in the attack on Pouria Zeraati, a London-based TV host for the Iran International news network. Badea and Stana appeared in a Romanian court after their arrest on December 4 for the start of extradition proceedings," a CPS spokesperson was quoted by Reuters as saying. "We continue to work closely with Romanian authorities, to ensure that our extradition request is progressed through the courts." British authorities have authorized charges against both of "wounding and wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm," according to a statement issued by the London Metropolitan Police. Zeraati, a British-Iranian journalist, suffered injuries after being stabbed near his home on March 29 in southwestern London. Counterterrorism police have led the investigation into the attack over concerns he had been targeted because of his job at Iran International, which is critical of Iran's government. “We now await the extradition process to progress so that the men can face prosecution here in the U.K.,” Acting Commander Helen Flanagan of the Counter Terrorism Command said in the statement. Flanagan said the command planned no further comments on the investigation and urged others not to speculate about the case, given criminal proceedings are now pending. Officials had previously said that the Romanians were suspected of being associates of an Eastern European crime network hired to carry out an attack directed by Iran’s security services. The suspects were likely hired to carry out the attack and had arrived in Britain shortly before the incident, according to British police sources quoted by The Guardian newspaper. British police, security officials, and politicians have issued a number of warnings about what they say is Iran's growing use of criminal proxies to carry out attacks abroad. The U.S. Justice Department last month unsealed criminal charges that included details of a plot allegedly backed by Iran to kill President-elect Donald Trump before the November 5 election. FBI Director Christopher Wray said at the time that the charges exposed Iran's “continued brazen attempts to target U.S. citizens” and dissidents who criticize the Iranian regime, which has rejected accusations that it is involved. One of the targets of the alleged plot was dissident journalist Masih Alinejad, who said on X that she was shocked to have learned of the conspiracy from the FBI. Alinejad, who has criticized Iran's laws requiring women to wear a hijab, was the target of a kidnapping plot in 2021 according to U.S. prosecutors, and in 2022 a man was arrested with a rifle outside her home. Britain and the United States have imposed sanctions on Iranian officials who they say have been involved in threats to kill journalists on their soil. Iran International said the network is pleased that the police investigation has made progress. “It is reassuring for our journalists, as for others in organizations under similar threat," said Adam Baillie, a spokesman for the network, according to Reuters. Authorities initially believed three suspects were involved in the attack on Zeraati. The three men abandoned their vehicle shortly after the incident and left the country by air within hours, police said. A third person was detained in Romania on December 4, but was later released, according to individuals familiar with the case quoted by The Washington Post. The London Metropolitan Police statement did not mention the third person or specifically accuse those arrested of acting on behalf of Tehran. Zeraati did not comment directly on the developments but posted links on his X account to news stories about the arrests made in Romania. The Syrian Army said it was redeploying troops "to preserve civilians lives and prevent urban combat" after Islamist-led rebels entered the key city of Hama, another loss for the country's president, Bashar al-Assad, as well as his allies in Russia and Iran. "Over the past few hours, with the intensification of confrontations between our soldiers and terrorist groups...these groups were able to breach a number of axes in the city and entered it," a Syrian Army statement said on December 5. Hama, Syria's fourth-largest city, is key to the defense of Damascus and the gateway to the coastal cities of Tartus and Latakia, the former being home to a strategic Russian naval base. Syrian and Russian forces had shelled the rebels a day earlier and used air strikes to try and stop their advance. "With that (advance in Hama), Assad's in real trouble. Homs is next & its countryside is FAR more amenable to facilitating an opposition advance," Charles Lister, a senior fellow and the director of the Syria and Countering Terrorism & Extremism programs at the Middle East Institute, wrote on X. The rebels, led by Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have made major advances over the past several days, including the capture of Aleppo, the country's largest city, as well as 14 central villages and towns, and gotten as close as 35 kilometers from the Russian-operated Khmeimim air base. Syria turned over the air base to Russia in 2015 as Moscow moved in to help Damascus turn the tide of a four-year civil war in its favor. Besides HTS, the rebels also include an umbrella group of Turkish-backed Syrian militias called the Syrian National Army. The United Nations has said tens of thousands of civilians have been displaced by the fighting. Imprisoned Iranian Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi has been temporarily released for at least three weeks after receiving urgent medical care, her lawyer said on December 4. "According to the medical examiner's opinion, the Tehran Prosecutor's Office suspended the execution of Ms. Narges Mohammadi's sentence for three weeks and she was released from prison. The reason for this is her physical condition after tumor removal and bone grafting, which was done 21 days ago," human rights lawyer Mostafa Nili said in a post on X. Sources confirmed to RFE/RL's Radio Farda that Mohammadi, 52, had been released. Analysts said that by suspending Mohammadi's sentence instead of granting her a medical furlough, the time she spends outside of prison will be added to her sentence. A medical furlough would have meant time spent outside of prison would be considered the same as time spent incarcerated. A United Nations spokesman told AFP it was important that Mohammadi was released temporarily for health reasons in order to receive adequate treatment. The spokesman said the UN reiterated its call for her immediate and unconditional release. Mohammadi has been campaigning for human rights in Iran for decades and has been in and out of prison for the last 20 years. She has been convicted five times since March 2021 and is currently serving a 12-year prison sentence for "spreading propaganda" against the Islamic republic. Last month, her husband, Taghi Rahmani, said his wife had been moved to a Tehran hospital after suffering health issues for more than two months. "She had an operation, and the operation was on the right leg, and even moving in the prison, sitting, and doing simple things became impossible for her, and even some prisoners went on hunger strike demanding her release," Rahmani told Radio Farda. "Although prison is not a place for Narges, there is no place for human rights activists in prison at all. She should not go back to prison and all human rights activists and civil activists should be released from prison," he added. Despite being nearly continuously incarcerated since 2010, Mohammadi has often tried to raise awareness about prison conditions and alleged abuses faced by female prisoners. She won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2023. Her teenage children accepted the award in Oslo on her behalf and read out a statement by Mohammadi in which she criticized Iran's "tyrannical" government. "Weeks of enduring excruciating pain in prison, despite tireless advocacy from human rights organizations, and international figures, highlights the persistent disregard for Narges Mohammadi’s basic human rights and the inhumane treatment she endures -- even after being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize," the Narges Foundation said in a statement . "The Narges Foundation asserts that a 21-day suspension of Narges Mohammadi's sentence is inadequate. After over a decade of imprisonment, Narges requires specialized medical care in a safe, sanitary environment -- a basic human right. As doctors have emphasized, a minimum of three months' recovery is crucial for her healing." Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stressed the need for diplomacy to resolve the conflict in northern Syria in a phone call on December 3 to discuss the renewed fighting. A statement from Erdogan’s office after the call said Syria should not become a source of greater instability. "President Erdogan emphasized that while Turkey continues to support the territorial integrity of Syria, it also strives for a just and permanent solution in Syria," Erdogan told Putin in their conversation on December 3, according to the statement from Erdogan's office posted on X. He also said it is important to open more space for diplomacy in the region and the Syrian regime must engage in the political solution process, according to the statement. Erdogan vowed Turkey will maintain its determined stance on the fight against the banned Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has been designated as a terrorist group by Turkey and the United States, and its "extensions,” who are trying to take advantage of the recent developments in Syria, the statement said. Erdogan and Putin spoke as Syrian rebels advanced against government forces after capturing Aleppo last week. The rebels pushed close on December 3 to the major city of Hama, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and the rebels said. The Syrian Observatory said on December 3 that the toll from the rebel offensive in the north had risen to 602 dead, including 104 civilians. An attack on Hama would ramp up pressure on Assad, whose Russian and Iranian allies have scrambled to support him against the revived rebellion. The city has remained in government hands since civil war erupted in 2011. A statement from Syria's army command said its forces were striking "terrorist organizations" in north Hama and Idlib provinces with Russian air support. The Kremlin said Putin stressed the need for a "speedy end to the terrorist aggression against the Syrian state by radical groups." Both leaders noted the importance of further close coordination between Russia, Turkey, and Iran on the matter, a Kremlin statement said. "The two presidents will continue to be in contact with each other in the context of seeking steps to de-escalate the crisis," the statement said. The Syrian civil war had been mostly dormant for years until a major offensive by militants in northwestern Syria revived the conflict. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and its allies last week seized control of most of Aleppo and the surrounding countryside, marking the biggest offensive in years. HTS is a militant Islamist group that seeks to establish a state in Syria governed by Islamic law. The U.S.-designated terrorist organization has between 5,000 and 10,000 fighters, according to U.S. intelligence estimates. The conflict has pitted Moscow and Tehran against Turkey, which supports armed groups involved in the HTS-led offensive. Russia's ambassador to the United Nations late on December 3 accused Ukrainian intelligence services of aiding the HTS. Rebels fighting with HTS are "openly flaunting" that they are supported by Ukraine, Vasily Nebenzya told the UN Security Council. The envoy said there was an "identifiable trail" showing Ukraine's GUR military intelligence service was "providing weapons to fighters" and claimed Ukrainian military instructors from the GUR are training HTS fighters for combat operations, including against Russian troops in Syria. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said earlier that Russia and Iran "bear the main responsibility" for the recent escalation in fighting. It also noted Ukrainians were being targeted on a nightly basis by Iranian-designed drones. Russian President Vladimir Putin and his allies in Iran "continue to make every effort not to lose control over the puppet Syrian regime, which is associated by the majority of Syrians with inhuman cruelty, tyranny, and crimes," the ministry said on December 2. There are indications the conflict could escalate. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on December 3 in an interview with a Qatari news outlet that Tehran would consider sending troops to Syria if Damascus asked. Iraqi Prime Minister Shia al-Sudani said Baghdad would not be "a mere spectator" in Syria and blamed Israeli military strikes on the Syrian government for the rebel advance, his office said. Compounding Assad's problems, fighters from a U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led coalition battled government forces in the northeast, both sides said, opening a new front along a vital supply route. Iran and Pakistan were on the brink of a full-blown conflict after they exchanged deadly cross-border attacks in January. The unprecedented flare-up reignited a long-running dispute between the neighbors over cross-border militancy. For decades, the countries have accused each other of harboring armed groups that carry out attacks on the other. Now, Iran and nuclear-armed Pakistan appear to be expanding their cooperation as they attempt to curb the rising number of attacks carried out by Baluch separatists and militant groups operating along their shared 900-kilomter-long border. "The two sides have turned a corner in their relationship," said Farzan Sabet, a senior research associate at the Geneva Graduate Institute. In July, Islamabad handed over to Iran an alleged member of Jaish al-Adl, a Baluch separatist militant group that is believed to be operating out of Pakistan. In return, Iran transferred a Pakistani Baluch separatist figure to Islamabad. In early November, Jaish al-Adl claimed that 12 of its fighters were killed in a joint operation by Iran and Pakistan. Tehran praised the assault but said that it was conducted by Pakistani forces alone. Source Of Instability Iran's southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan and Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan Province have been the scene of decades-long insurgencies. The vast and impoverished provinces are home to the Baluch, an ethnic minority in Iran and Pakistan. Baluch in both countries have long faced discrimination and violence at the hands of the authorities, which they accuse of exploiting the region’s natural resources. Jaish al-Adl and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the largest Baluch armed group in Pakistan, have become increasingly potent fighting forces in recent years. The groups have adopted more lethal tactics, including suicide bombings, and expanded their recruitment. They have also exploited growing local anger at Tehran and Islamabad, and acquired more sophisticated weapons. The BLA on November 9 claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing targeting soldiers at a train station in Balochistan that killed at least 26 people. On October 26, Jaish al-Adl attacked a police patrol in Iran's Sistan-Baluchistan Province, killing 10 officers. Aziz Baloch, an independent Pakistani security expert, says Tehran and Islamabad are coordinating and cooperating on "security and border management for the first time." Baluch armed groups "have become a leading source of internal instability" in both countries, said Baloch, adding that Iran and Pakistan "have grasped that without turning this situation around through cooperation, they will suffer mounting losses." Imtiaz Baloch, an analyst covering Balochistan for Khorasan Diary, a website tracking militant groups in Afghanistan and Pakistan, says the collaboration between Iran and Pakistan is deeper than publicly acknowledged. "Cooperation between the two is deepening and gathering pace," he said. Economic Incentives Experts say Pakistan and Iran -- who are both dealing with economic crises -- also have financial incentives for expanding cooperation and tackling cross-border militancy. Pakistan’s Balochistan is a resource-rich province that is home to dozens of multibillion-dollar Chinese-funded development projects. Militants have killed at least seven Chinese workers in Pakistan this year, threatening to derail the $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Meanwhile, Beijing is a top importer of Iranian oil and a leading investor in its freefalling economy. The Chabahar Port in Sistan-Baluchistan is a key hub for imports and exports to neighboring Afghanistan. Sabet of the Geneva Graduate Institute said the security risks emanating from Baluch areas in Iran and Pakistan and their geo-economic importance have magnified their place in the development plans of both countries. "This has led the two governments to embark on an effort to suppress the violence there," he said. Iran said on December 2 that it plans to keep military advisers in Syria after its ally's second city, Aleppo, was overrun by rebels in a surprise offensive. The Islamic republic, which has backed President Bashar al-Assad since Syria's civil war broke out in 2011, says it only deploys military advisers in the country at the invitation of Damascus. "We entered Syria many years ago at the official invitation of the Syrian government, when the Syrian people faced the threat of terrorism," said Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaeil. "Our military advisers were present in Syria, and they are still present" and would remain in the country "in accordance with the wishes" of its government, he told a news conference in Tehran. Baqaeil did not specify whether or not Iran would be increasing its forces in Syria in the wake of the lightning rebel offensive. His remarks come a day after Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Assad in Damascus to show support for the Syrian president. Toomaj Salehi, an Iranian rapper who was acquitted in court after being sentenced to death over his protest songs against the Islamic republic, was released from custody on December 1, a news agency linked to the judiciary reported. Mizan quoted the Isfahan judiciary as saying that “Salehi, sentenced to one year in prison for the crime of propaganda against the state, was released from prison after serving his sentence.” Salehi was sentenced to death by the Isfahan Revolutionary Court in May on a "corruption on Earth” charge, but the Supreme Court overturned the punishment. Salehi was arrested in October 2022 after making statements in support of protests that followed the death of Mahsa Amini, a woman who died in police custody for allegedly wearing her head scarf improperly. To read the original story by RFE/RL's Radio Farda, click here . Russian warplanes have joined Syrian air forces to bomb Islamist-led rebels who had taken much of the northwestern city of Aleppo in the biggest challenge to President Bashar al-Assad’s rule in the battle-torn Middle East nation in several years. Iran, meanwhile, said on November 30 that the rebels had attacked its consulate in Aleppo, calling it "aggression by terrorist elements," although it said there were no injuries and provided few details about the incident. The Russian and Iranian foreign ministers expressed support for longtime ally Syria, according to Iranian state media, which quoted Iran's Abbas Araqchi as telling Russia's Sergei Lavrov in a call that the attacks were part of an Israeli-U.S. plan to destabilize the region. The air strikes came a day after Islamists and their Turkish-backed allies breached Syria's Aleppo in a surprise offensive against forces of the Assad government. Reports on the ground said the rebels had captured much of the city, although details remained sketchy. The Syrian military confirmed that rebels had entered Aleppo. It did not confirm the air attacks, but Russia's Defense Ministry said its air force carried out strikes on the rebels. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on November 29 that Russia regarded the rebels’ actions as a violation of Syria's sovereignty. "We are in favor of the Syrian authorities bringing order to the area and restoring constitutional order as soon as possible," he said. Reuters quoted two Syrian military sources as saying that Russian and Syrian warplanes had targeted rebel sites in an Aleppo suburb on November 30. The sources said the Kremlin has promised Syria extra military aid, expected to arrive within two to three days. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a war monitor, said the fighters, led by the Islamist extremist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) movement, took control of "half of the city of Aleppo," forcing government forces to pull back. HTS in the past has had links to the Al-Qaeda and Islamic State (IS) extremist groups, although many leaders reportedly split off from those organizations. It was formerly known as Jabhat al-Nusrah and the Al-Nusrah Front, which was Al-Qaeda's affiliate in Syria and has been deemed a terrorist organization by the UN and the United States. In May 2018, the U.S. State Department added HTS to the Al-Nusrah Front's existing December 2012 designation as a foreign terrorist organization. The rebels’ offensive began on November 27, prompting the Syrian military to close all main roads in and out of the city. Rami Abdel Rahman, director of the Syrian Observatory, told RFE/RL's Radio Farda that the armed rebels had been preparing for the operation since September, but Turkey had so far prevented it from taking place. The Aleppo violence breaks a pause in the Syrian civil war, which has been mainly quiet over the past four years. The conflict involved the Assad government backed by Moscow and Tehran against Syrian-Kurdish rebels supported by the United States, while Turkey aided separate rebel groups. The U.S. military still has a number of troops deployed in Kurdish-held areas of Syria. Terror organizations, including Islamic State, also were involved in fighting. Russia, Turkey, and Iran signed an agreement in 2019 to freeze the conflict at then current positions. The Syrian Observatory said at least 16 civilians were killed on November 30 when an air strike, likely carried out by Russian warplanes, hit Aleppo. It said the attack "targeted civilian vehicles" at an intersection, leaving an additional 20 people wounded. This incident brings the total number of fatalities in the city over the past four days to 327. The British-based observatory compiles its information from battlefield sources and has been influential throughout the Syrian civil war. Syria’s army command acknowledged that rebels had entered Aleppo. Rebels had previously controlled the city before being driven out by Russia-backed forces eight years ago. "The large numbers of terrorists and the multiplicity of battlefronts prompted our armed forces to carry out a redeployment operation aimed at strengthening the defense lines in order to absorb the attack, preserve the lives of civilians and soldiers, and prepare for a counterattack," the Syrian Army said. The fighting comes amid fears of a wider war in the Middle East. Israeli forces in Gaza are battling extremists from Hamas – deemed a terrorist organization by the United States and the EU – and a cease-fire hangs in the balance in Lebanon, where Israel has struck the leadership of Hezbollah, also designated a terrorist group by Washington. The EU blacklists Hezbollah’s military arm but not its political wing. Israeli attacks have also taken place against Iran-backed Huthi rebels in Yemen. Iran and three European powers agreed to continue their dialogue "in the near future" after a meeting in Geneva as intelligence officials warned Tehran's nuclear proliferation poses a "critical threat" in the coming months. Negotiators from Iran and the so-called E3 (Britain, France, and Germany) met in Switzerland to discuss a range of issues, including Iran's expanding nuclear program, its military support for Russia, and conflicts in the Middle East. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi wrote on X on November 29 that the talks in the Swiss city focused on the latest bilateral, regional, and international developments, "especially the nuclear issue and the lifting of sanctions." "We are firmly committed to pursuing the interests of our people, and our preference is the path of dialogue and engagement," Gharibabadi said. Ahead of the meeting, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said it would be a “brainstorming session” to see “if there really is a way out” of the current nuclear impasse, among other issues. Separately, the spy chiefs of Britain and France raised the alarm about Iran’s growing relationship with Russia and its accelerating nuclear program. The meeting in Geneva came a week after the 35-member board of governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) passed a censure resolution against Iran. It also tasked the UN nuclear watchdog to prepare a “comprehensive and updated assessment” on the state of Iran’s expanding nuclear program, including past and present attempts to develop a bomb. The report could pave the way for referring Iran’s case to the UN Security Council to trigger the so-called “snapback” mechanism to reimpose UN sanctions lifted under the terms of the 2015 agreement with world powers. In response to the resolution, Iran said it would begin enriching uranium with thousands of advanced centrifuges at its key nuclear facilities in Fordo and Natanz, the IAEA announced on November 29. The agency noted, however, that Iran would be enriching uranium to 5 percent purity -- even though it is enriching uranium with less advanced machines at 60 percent. Richard Moore, head of Britain's Secret Intelligence Service, known as MI6, said on November 29 that if Russia were to meet its Ukraine war objectives, “China would weigh the implications, North Korea would be emboldened, and Iran would become still more dangerous.” He added that Iran’s nuclear ambitions were “a continued threat” -- a sentiment shared by Nicolas Lerner, head of France's foreign intelligence service. "Our services are working side by side to face what is undoubtedly one of the threats, if not to say the most critical threat, in the coming months -- the possible atomic proliferation in Iran," Lerner said in Geneva. A former British soldier, whose prison escape sparked a massive manhunt in 2023, has been found guilty of passing on sensitive information to the Iranian intelligence service. Prosecutors said that Daniel Abed Khalife, 23, played a "cynical game" by claiming he wanted to be a double agent for Britain after he had delivered a large amount of restricted and classified material to Iran, including the names of special forces officers. The verdict was delivered at London's Woolwich Crown Court on November 28. Prosecutor Mark Heywood told jurors at the start of the trial that Khalife collected sensitive information between May 2019 and January 2022. Khalife stood trial charged with gathering information that might be useful to an enemy, namely Iran, obtaining information likely to be useful for terrorism. Khalife, who was expelled from the army after he was charged, was also accused of planting fake bombs in his military barracks. But the court cleared him of a charge of carrying out a bomb hoax. Khalife snuck out of a London prison in September 2023 while awaiting trial and spent three days on the run. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi says his country may change its nuclear doctrine and develop a bomb if UN sanctions are reimposed on Tehran. Speaking to reporters on November 28 in Lisbon, Portugal, Araqchi said Iran had long had the technical know-how to build a bomb but doing so "is not part of Tehran’s security strategy," according to Iranian media. His comments come as negotiators from Iran and the E3 (Britain, France, and Germany) are scheduled to meet in Geneva to discuss a range of issues, including Iran’s nuclear program and conflicts in the Middle East. Araqchi described the meeting on November 29 as a “brainstorming session” to see “if there really is a way out” of the current nuclear impasse. The Geneva meeting is not billed as nuclear talks by any party but Iran’s atomic program is expected to be a central topic. Talks between Iran and world powers to restore the 2015 nuclear deal have stalled since September 2022. Last week, the 35-member board of governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) passed a censure resolution against Iran and tasked the UN nuclear watchdog to prepare a “comprehensive and updated assessment” on the state of Iran’s expanding nuclear program, including past and present attempts to develop a bomb. The report could pave the way for referring Iran’s case to the UN Security Council in a bid to trigger the so-called “snapback” mechanism to reimpose UN sanctions that had been lifted under the terms of the 2015 agreement with world powers. In response to the resolution, Iran activated several “new and advanced” centrifuges to enrich uranium. Araqchi said he was “not optimistic” about the Geneva talks because he was unsure whether Tehran was “speaking to the right party.” The 2015 nuclear agreement began to unravel after President-elect Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the accord during his first term in office in 2018 and reimposed sanctions on Iran. Tehran responded by expanding its nuclear program, limiting inspections of its nuclear sites, and enriching uranium to as high as 60 percent. A U.S.-brokered deal to end hostilities in Lebanon is a significant win for Israel, which achieved its key war aims , experts say. The cease-fire agreement that came into effect on November 27 ended nearly 14 months of fighting between Israel and Hezbollah, the Lebanese armed group and political party. Israel has eroded Hezbollah as a military power as well as a political and economic force in Lebanon. Israel has also succeeded in decoupling Hezbollah's rocket and missile attacks on Israel from the Gaza war. The Iran-backed group had vowed to continue its attacks until Israel ended its ongoing yearlong war in the Palestinian enclave. The truce will also end the presence of Hezbollah -- a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, although the EU has only blacklisted its armed wing -- in southern Lebanon, its stronghold. Israel, too, must withdrawal its ground forces from Lebanon. "Israel got the deal it wanted," said Michael Horowitz, head of intelligence at the Bahrain-based Le Beck International consultancy. "Some are arguing in Israel that it would have been better to continue the war and aim for Hezbollah's full defeat, but the deal Israel achieved is as good as it could have hoped for," he added. Don't Underestimate Hezbollah Israel's devastating aerial bombardment of Lebanon decimated Hezbollah's leadership and military arsenal. But experts say it is too early to write off the group, which has representatives in parliament and retains support among the Shi'ite Muslim community in Lebanon. "Hezbollah is now a shadow of its former self, but it remains dangerous -- both to Israel and its many opponents in Lebanon," said Matthew Levitt of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. Still, the war has shattered the armed group's narrative that it is Lebanon's protector against Israel, experts say. Hezbollah vowed to continue attacking Israel until it ended its war in Gaza. But the group was forced to drop that demand. The Israel-Hezbollah conflict killed over 3,600 Lebanese, mostly civilians, and displaced over 1 million people. Large areas of southern Lebanon and parts of the capital, Beirut, lie in ruins. "Not only was it not able to defend Lebanon, but it dragged it into a conflict for reasons outside of Lebanese interests, and now effectively gave up on this very narrative -- as it decoupled from Gaza," said Horowitz. "The group will face a legitimacy crisis, and will have to re-invent itself, and it will have to do so with a far less intelligent and politically shrewd leadership at its helm," he added. Hezbollah has not publicly commented on the cease-fire deal. But Hassan Fadlallah, a Lebanese lawmaker and member of Hezbollah, insists that the group will stay armed. "A lot of political groups in Lebanon will oppose this," Assaad Bechara, a political analyst based in Lebanon, told RFE/RL's Radio Farda. "Hezbollah will not be present in Lebanon's southern borders and will not face Israel, so their weapons will be aimed [at Lebanon]. Lebanon's transition phase will be very difficult and precarious." The Iran Angle Hezbollah has long been the crown jewel within Iran's loose network of regional allies and proxies known as the "axis of resistance." It also served as Iran's first and most formidable line of defense against Israel. Iran will try to use the respite afforded by the cease-fire to help Hezbollah "rehabilitate and reestablish its rank and file," said Hamidreza Azizi, a fellow at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs. Azizi added that Iran and its allies view the cease-fire agreement as a "temporary respite until the next phase of confrontation with Israel." Under the terms of the cease-fire deal, thousands of Lebanese soldiers will be stationed in southern Lebanon along with a UN peacekeeping force. The United States will provide military support to the Lebanese Army and will ensure the implementation of the deal along with France. The presence of the West will likely be a major source of concern for Iran, which has long exerted its influence in Lebanon through Hezbollah, experts say. Tehran will see this as an attempt to bolster Hezbollah's domestic political rivals and " erode the potential for Hezbollah to remain active in Lebanese politics," Azizi said.

$700B Industry Shake-Up: Rhuna x Plume Transforming Events for 2M+ Attendees & 200M+ Blockchain Transactions!The SAMR's probe into Nvidia's business practices is said to focus on concerns related to the company's dominance in the GPU market and its potential anti-competitive behavior. This investigation is part of China's broader efforts to crack down on monopolistic practices and ensure fair competition in the tech sector.

USU men’s basketball: Aggies go after school record on SaturdayBy ZEKE MILLER, Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday reached a required agreement with President Joe Biden’s White House to allow his transition staff to coordinate with the existing federal workforce before taking office on Jan. 20. The congressionally mandated agreement allows transition aides to work with federal agencies and access non-public information and gives a green light to government workers to talk to the transition team. But Trump has declined to sign a separate agreement with the General Services Administration that would have given his team access to secure government offices and email accounts, in part because it would require that the president-elect limit contributions to $5,000 and reveal who is donating to his transition effort. The White House agreement was supposed to have been signed by Oct. 1, according to the Presidential Transition Act, and the Biden White House had issued both public and private appeals for Trump’s team to sign on. The agreement is a critical step in ensuring an orderly transfer of power at noon on Inauguration Day, and lays the groundwork for the White House and government agencies to begin to share details on ongoing programs, operations and threats. It limits the risk that the Trump team could find itself taking control of the massive federal government without briefings and documents from the outgoing administration. As part of the agreement with the White House, Trump’s team will have to publicly disclose its ethics plan for the transition operation and make a commitment to uphold it, the White House said. Transition aides must sign statements that they have no financial positions that could pose a conflict of interest before they receive access to non-public federal information. Biden himself raised the agreement with Trump when they met in the Oval Office on Nov. 13, according to the White House, and Trump indicated that his team was working to get it signed. Trump chief of staff-designate Susie Wiles met with Biden’s chief of staff Jeff Zients at the White House on Nov. 19 and other senior officials in part to discuss remaining holdups, while lawyers for the two sides have spoken more than a half-dozen times in recent days to finalize the agreement. “Like President Biden said to the American people from the Rose Garden and directly to President-elect Trump, he is committed to an orderly transition,” said White House spokesperson Saloni Sharma. “President-elect Trump and his team will be in seat on January 20 at 12 pm – and they will immediately be responsible for a range of domestic and global challenges, foreseen and unforeseen. A smooth transition is critical to the safety and security of the American people who are counting on their leaders to be responsible and prepared.” Without the signed agreement, Biden administration officials were restricted in what they could share with the incoming team. Trump national security adviser-designate Rep. Mike Waltz met recently with Biden national security adviser Jake Sullivan, but the outgoing team was limited in what it could discuss. “We are doing everything that we can to effect a professional and an orderly transition,” White House national security spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Monday. “And we continue to urge the incoming team to take the steps that are necessary to be able to facilitate that on their end as well.” “This engagement allows our intended Cabinet nominees to begin critical preparations, including the deployment of landing teams to every department and agency, and complete the orderly transition of power,” said Wiles in a statement. The Trump transition team says it would disclose its donors to the public and would not take foreign donations. A separate agreement with the Department of Justice to coordinate background checks for vetting and security clearances is still being actively worked on and could be signed quickly now that the White House agreement is signed. The agency has teams of investigators standing by to process clearances for Trump aides and advisers once that document is signed. That would clear the way for transition aides and future administration appointees and nominees to begin accessing classified information before Trump takes office. Some Trump aides may hold active clearances from his first term in office or other government roles, but others will need new clearances to access classified data. Trump’s team on Friday formally told the GSA that they would not utilize the government office space blocks from the White House reserved for their use, or government email accounts, phones and computers during the transition. The White House said it does not agree with Trump’s decision to forgo support from the GSA, but is working on alternate ways to get Trump appointees the information they need without jeopardizing national security. Federal agencies are receiving guidance on Tuesday on how to share sensitive information with the Trump team without jeopardizing national security or non-public information. For instance, agencies may require in-person meetings and document reviews since the Trump team has declined to shift to using secure phones and computers. For unclassified information, agencies may ask Trump transition staff to attest that they are taking basic safeguards, like using two-factor authentication on their accounts.In the meantime, the team and fans will continue to show their unwavering support for Mamadashvili as he works towards regaining his fitness and making a triumphant return to the beautiful game. The road to recovery may be long and challenging, but with Mamadashvili’s resilience and determination, there is no doubt that he will come back stronger than ever before.

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rich9 register In conclusion, Yun Fast Charge's participation in the 2024 Anhui New Energy Vehicle Aftermarket Conference underscores its dedication to driving sustainable mobility solutions and accelerating the transition to electric vehicles. Through its efforts to deepen cooperation in charging and swapping services in northern Anhui province, Yun Fast Charge is setting new standards for excellence and innovation in the electric vehicle sector. As the industry continues to expand and evolve, Yun Fast Charge remains a trusted partner and a driving force for positive change in the world of electric mobility.

Botafogo won the Copa Libertadores for the first time in their history with a 3-1 victory over fellow Brazilians Atletico Mineiro on Saturday. Botafogo played almost the entire match with ten men after Gregore was sent off in the first minute but they showed impressive spirit and resilience to secure victory at River Plate's Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. It is the sixth straight season that a Brazilian club has won the Libertadores, the top competition for South American clubs. The 120-year-old Botafogo, the Rio club who have twice won the Brazilian championship, have a rich history, including producing greats such as World Cup winners Garrincha, Didi, Nilton Santos and Mario Zagallo. But they have long suffered taunts from their rivals about their failure to win the continental title -- a jibe that can be made no more. Midfielder Gregore was shown a red card after a wild, high challenge on Fauto Vera, forcing Botafogo to adjust their game plan, but Atletico failed to press home their numerical advantage. Veteran forward Hulk had an effort from outside the box saved by John but the team from Belo Horizonte created little pressure. Sensing the game might not be the rearguard action they might have expected, Botafogo began to show more attacking intent and they were rewarded in the 35th minute. Marlon Freitas's shot from the edge of the box ricocheted around a crowded box before the ball fell to Luiz Henrique, who fired home from close range. To their credit, Botafogo didn't retreat to defend their slim advantage and they were able to double their lead in the 44th minute. Atletico defender Guilherme Arana attempted to shepherd the ball back to goalkeeper Everson, but Luiz Henrique snuck between the pair and went down under challenge from the keeper. After a VAR review, a penalty was awarded and Alex Telles confidently smashed home the spot kick to give Botafogo an unlikely 2-0 lead at the break. Atletico, who won the Libertadores in 2013, made a triple substitution at the interval and it paid off swiftly with Eduardo Vargas heading in from a corner. Inevitably, there was late pressure from Atletico, but Botafogo made sure of the victory when Junior Santos finished off a counter-attack deep in stoppage time. With the win, Botafogo earns the final of 32 places in next year's FIFA Club World Cup to be held in the United States. The club, owned by American businessman John Textor, also has a chance to complete a double by winning what would be their third Brazilian league title -- they currently lead Serie A by three points with two games remaining. Luis Henrique, whose fine form this season has seen him break into the Brazil squad, said the win was an emotional one for him and the team. "Many people tried to stop me, but I know that God is with me, my family is with me, and I have to keep my feet on the ground because there is still more to come," the 23-year-old striker said. "I want to thank Botafogo a lot, Botafogo needs to be at the top, because it's a club that has been working hard, that has been doing a lot on a daily basis." sev/js

Trump asks Supreme Court to delay TikTok ban so he can weigh in after he takes office President-elect Donald Trump has asked the Supreme Court to pause the potential TikTok ban from going into effect until his administration can pursue a “political resolution” to the issue. Trump's request Friday came as TikTok and the Biden administration filed opposing briefs to the court. Oral arguments are scheduled for Jan. 10 on whether the law, which requires TikTok to divest from its China-based parent company or face a ban, unlawfully restricts speech in violation of the First Amendment. The brief said Trump opposes banning TikTok at this junction and “seeks the ability to resolve the issues at hand through political means once he takes office.” Stock market today: Wall Street slips as the 'Magnificent 7' weighs down the market NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks are closing lower as Wall Street ends a holiday-shortened week on a down note. The S&P 500 fell 1.1% Friday and the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 333 points, or 0.8%. The Nasdaq composite dropped 1.5%. The “Magnificent 7” stocks weighed on the market, led by declines in Nvidia, Tesla and Microsoft. Even with the loss, the S&P 500 had a modest gain for the week and is still headed for its second consecutive annual gain of more than 20%, the first time that has happened since 1997-1998. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.62%. 10 tips from experts to help you change your relationship with money in 2025 NEW YORK (AP) — As the calendar changes to 2025, you might be thinking about how to approach your relationship with money in the new year. Whether you’re saving to move out of your parents’ house or pay off student loan debt, financial resolutions can help you stay motivated. If you’re planning to make financial resolutions for the new year, experts recommend that you start by evaluating the state of your finances in 2024. Then, set specific goals and make sure they’re attainable for your lifestyle. Janet Yellen tells Congress US could hit debt limit in mid-January WASHINGTON (AP) — Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen says her agency will need to start taking “extraordinary measures,” or special accounting maneuvers intended to prevent the nation from hitting the debt ceiling, as early as January 14th, in a letter sent to congressional leaders Friday afternoon. The department has taken such action in the past. But once those measures run out the government risks defaulting on its debt unless lawmakers and the president agree to lift the limit on the U.S. government’s ability to borrow. An online debate over foreign workers in tech shows tensions in Trump's political coalition WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — An online spat between factions of Donald Trump’s supporters over immigration and the tech industry has thrown internal divisions in the president-elect’s political movement into public display. The argument previews fissures and contradictory views his coalition could bring to the White House. The rift laid bare tensions between the newest flank of Trump’s movement — that is, wealthy members of the tech world who want more highly skilled workers in their industry — and people in Trump’s Make America Great Again base who championed his hardline immigration policies. A 9th telecoms firm has been hit by a massive Chinese espionage campaign, the White House says WASHINGTON (AP) — A top White House official says a ninth U.S. telecoms firm has been confirmed to have been hacked as part of a sprawling Chinese espionage campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans. Administration officials said this month that at least eight telecommunications companies, as well as dozens of nations, had been affected by the Chinese hacking blitz known as Salt Typhoon. But Anne Neuberger, a deputy national security adviser, said Friday that a ninth victim had been identified after the administration released guidance to companies about how to hunt for Chinese culprits in their networks. Most Americans blame insurance profits and denials alongside the killer in UHC CEO death, poll finds WASHINGTON (AP) — Most Americans believe health insurance profits and coverage denials share responsibility for the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO — although not as much as the person who pulled the trigger. So says a new poll from NORC at the University of Chicago. It finds that about 8 in 10 Americans say that the person who committed the killing has “a great deal” or “a moderate amount” of responsibility for the Dec. 4 shooting of Brian Thompson. Still, some see suspect Luigi Mangione as a heroic figure. About 7 in 10 adults say coverage denials or health insurance profits also bear at least “a moderate amount” of responsibility for Thompson’s death. Another jackpot surpasses $1 billion. Is this the new normal? Remember this moment because it probably won’t last: A U.S. lottery jackpot is projected to soar above $1 billion, and that's still a big deal. Friday’s Mega Millions drawing is worth an estimated $1.15 billion. The prize has evoked headlines across the country, despite the nation's top 10 jackpots already having boasted billion-dollar payouts. Jonathan Cohen is the author of the book “For a Dollar and a Dream: State Lotteries in Modern America.” He says he expects jackpots to continue to grow in size. Larger payouts attract more media attention, increase ticket sales and bring in new players. How the stock market defied expectations again this year, by the numbers NEW YORK (AP) — What a wonderful year 2024 has been for investors. U.S. stocks ripped higher and carried the S&P 500 to records as the economy kept growing and the Federal Reserve began cutting interest rates. The benchmark index posted its first back-to-back annual gains of more than 20% since 1998. The year featured many familiar winners, such as Big Tech, which got even bigger as their stock prices kept growing. But it wasn’t just Apple, Nvidia and the like. Bitcoin and gold surged and “Roaring Kitty” reappeared to briefly reignite the meme stock craze. Richard Parsons, prominent executive who led Time Warner and Citigroup, dies at 76 NEW YORK (AP) — Richard Parsons, one of corporate America’s most prominent Black executives who held top posts at Time Warner and Citigroup, has died. He was 76. Parsons died Thursday at his Manhattan home. He was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2015 and cited “unanticipated complications” from the disease for cutting back on work a few years later. Financial services company Lazard confirmed his death. Parsons was a longtime member of the company's board. His friend Ronald Lauder told The New York Times that the cause of death was cancer. Parsons stepped down Dec. 3 from the boards of Lazard and Lauder’s company, Estée Lauder, citing health reasons. He had been on Estée Lauder’s board for 25 years.Let this be a lesson for everyone to stay alert and proactive in safeguarding their personal information in an increasingly interconnected world. It is only by working together and prioritizing security that we can minimize the risks of fraud and identity theft in our daily lives.

Moreover, Tillman's tactical awareness and decision-making on the field have been commendable. He shows intelligence in reading the game, making timely interceptions, and providing support to his teammates both defensively and offensively. His ability to adapt to different roles in midfield and follow the coach's instructions diligently highlight his professionalism and dedication to improving as a player.Real Madrid, historically one of the most successful clubs in the Champions League, is facing uncertainty in their quarter-final clash. Despite their rich pedigree and experience in the competition, foreign media experts have expressed concerns over their recent form and performances. With a win rate below forty percent predicted by analysts, Los Blancos are set to encounter a tough challenge as they strive to progress to the next stage.

As the cold air settles in, concerns about the impact on transportation and infrastructure have come to the forefront. Airlines have been forced to cancel flights, citing unsafe flying conditions caused by the extreme cold. Train services have experienced delays and cancellations as tracks freeze over, and drivers have had to navigate treacherous road conditions on slippery, snow-covered highways.

Overall, the outcomes of the Central Political Bureau meeting offer a comprehensive roadmap for navigating the economic challenges and opportunities of 2025. By focusing on innovation, sustainability, financial stability, and social welfare, China is poised to embark on a new phase of economic transformation and growth. As we look ahead to the future, these key insights provide valuable guidance for policymakers, businesses, and individuals alike as they navigate the evolving dynamics of the global economy in the years to come.Overall, the decision to partner with Momenta over Huawei reflects a strategic move by automotive companies to align themselves with specialized providers who can offer tailored solutions and address specific industry challenges, ultimately positioning them for success in the evolving landscape of autonomous driving technology.

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The incident, which involved accusations of plagiarism and unethical behavior in Dong Yuhui's writing, threatened to tarnish his reputation and jeopardize his standing in the industry. However, with resilience and determination, Dong Yuhui took swift and decisive actions to address the issue head-on. He issued a public apology, conducted a thorough investigation into the matter, and implemented stringent measures to prevent such incidents from occurring again in the future.Registration for the MarsCode AI Programming Challenge is now open, and participants are invited to sign up and start exploring the world of AI-driven creativity. With a dedicated community of mentors and experts on hand to provide guidance and support, participants can embark on their AI programming journey with confidence and enthusiasm.

14 new California laws to watch for in 2025

UnitedHealth Backlash Signals Possible Shift in Washington and on Wall Street - The Wall Street JournalWEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — President-elect Donald Trump said Saturday that he wants real estate developer Charles Kushner , father of Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, to serve as ambassador to France. Trump made the announcement in a Truth Social post, calling Charles Kushner “a tremendous business leader, philanthropist, & dealmaker." Kushner is the founder of Kushner Companies, a real estate firm. Jared Kushner is a former White House senior adviser to Trump who is married to Trump’s eldest daughter, Ivanka. The elder Kushner was pardoned by Trump in December 2020 after pleading guilty years earlier to tax evasion and making illegal campaign donations. Charles Kushner arrives July 20, 2022, for the funeral of Ivana Trump in New York. Prosecutors alleged that after Charles Kushner discovered his brother-in-law was cooperating with federal authorities in an investigation, he hatched a scheme for revenge and intimidation. Kushner hired a prostitute to lure his brother-in-law, then arranged to have the encounter in a New Jersey motel room recorded with a hidden camera and the recording sent to Kushner's own sister, the man’s wife, prosecutors said. Kushner eventually pleaded guilty to 18 counts including tax evasion and witness tampering. He was sentenced in 2005 to two years in prison — the most he could receive under a plea deal, but less than what Chris Christie, the U.S. attorney for New Jersey at the time and later governor and Republican presidential candidate, sought. Christie blamed Jared Kushner for his firing from Trump’s transition team in 2016, and called Charles Kushner’s offenses “one of the most loathsome, disgusting crimes that I prosecuted when I was U.S. attorney.” Trump and the elder Kushner knew each other from real estate circles and their children were married in 2009. Among President-elect Donald Trump's picks are Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio for secretary of state, former Democratic House member Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence and Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Susie Wiles, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. Trump named Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to be secretary of state, making a former sharp critic his choice to be the new administration's top diplomat. Rubio, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate on the Republican ticket last summer. Rubio is the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries,” Trump said of Rubio in a statement. The announcement punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator called a “con man" during his unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. And as Trump campaigned for the presidency a third time, Rubio cheered his proposals. For instance, Rubio, who more than a decade ago helped craft immigration legislation that included a path to citizenship for people in the U.S. illegally, now supports Trump's plan to use the U.S. military for mass deportations. Pete Hegseth, 44, is a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has been a contributor with the network since 2014, where he developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. If confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit the top job during a series of global crises — ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing attacks in the Middle East by Iranian proxies to the push for a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah and escalating worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea. Hegseth is also the author of “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” published earlier this year. Trump tapped Pam Bondi, 59, to be attorney general after U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. She was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She also was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist, she served as part of a Trump-allied outside group that helped lay the groundwork for his future administration called the America First Policy Institute. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appears on Fox News and has been a critic of the criminal cases against him. Trump picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a well-known conservative who faced sharp criticism for telling a story in her memoir about shooting a rambunctious dog, to lead an agency crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda. Noem used her two terms leading a tiny state to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. South Dakota is usually a political afterthought. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions that other states had issued and instead declared her state “open for business.” Trump held a fireworks rally at Mount Rushmore in July 2020 in one of the first large gatherings of the pandemic. She takes over a department with a sprawling mission. In addition to key immigration agencies, the Department of Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service, and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. The governor of North Dakota, who was once little-known outside his state, Burgum is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump, and spent months traveling to drum up support for him, after dropping out of the race. Burgum was a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice this summer. The two-term governor was seen as a possible pick because of his executive experience and business savvy. Burgum also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump made the announcement about Burgum joining his incoming administration while addressing a gala at his Mar-a-Lago club, and said a formal statement would be coming the following day. In comments to reporters before Trump took the stage, Burgum said that, in recent years, the power grid is deteriorating in many parts of the country, which he said could raise national security concerns but also drive up prices enough to increase inflation. “There's just a sense of urgency, and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration,” Burgum said. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran for president as a Democrat, than as an independent, and then endorsed Trump . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert Kennedy, who was assassinated during his own presidential campaign. The nomination of Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services alarmed people who are concerned about his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Scott Bessent, 62, is a former George Soros money manager and an advocate for deficit reduction. He's the founder of hedge fund Key Square Capital Management, after having worked on-and-off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. “This election cycle is the last chance for the U.S. to grow our way out of this mountain of debt without becoming a sort of European-style socialist democracy,” he said then. Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her reelection bid this month, but received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, she would oversee the Labor Department’s workforce, its budget and put forth priorities that impact workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and would add penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws that allow employees in more than half the states to avoid participating in or paying dues to unions that represent workers at their places of employment. Scott Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Sean Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Write is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. Wright also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. Wright also won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and adviser who played a key role on energy issues in Trump’s first term. President-elect Donald Trump tapped billionaire professional wrestling mogul Linda McMahon to be secretary of the Education Department, tasked with overseeing an agency Trump promised to dismantle. McMahon led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s initial term from 2017 to 2019 and twice ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. She’s seen as a relative unknown in education circles, though she expressed support for charter schools and school choice. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Brooke Rollins, who graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agricultural development, is a longtime Trump associate who served as White House domestic policy chief during his first presidency. The 52-year-old is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for a second Trump administration. She previously served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and ran a think tank, the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Trump chose Howard Lutnick, head of brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, as his nominee for commerce secretary, a position in which he'd have a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. Trump made the announcement Tuesday on his social media platform, Truth Social. Lutnick is a co-chair of Trump’s transition team, along with Linda McMahon, the former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration. Both are tasked with putting forward candidates for key roles in the next administration. The nomination would put Lutnick in charge of a sprawling Cabinet agency that is involved in funding new computer chip factories, imposing trade restrictions, releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. It is also a position in which connections to CEOs and the wider business community are crucial. Doug Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial, which centered on U.S. assistance for Ukraine. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential nomination, but he was acquitted by the Senate. Collins has also served in the armed forces himself and is currently a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. "We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need," Trump said in a statement about nominating Collins to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. Karoline Leavitt, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. The White House press secretary typically serves as the public face of the administration and historically has held daily briefings for the press corps. Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, was a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, before joining his 2024 campaign. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term before she became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's choice for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has been tapped by Trump to be director of national intelligence, keeping with the trend to stock his Cabinet with loyal personalities rather than veteran professionals in their requisite fields. Gabbard, 43, was a Democratic House member who unsuccessfully sought the party's 2020 presidential nomination before leaving the party in 2022. She endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him this fall. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community,” Trump said in a statement. Gabbard, who has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades, deploying to Iraq and Kuwait, would come to the role as somewhat of an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, was confirmed by the Senate in 2021 following several years in a number of top national security and intelligence positions. Trump has picked John Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman who served as director of national intelligence during his first administration, to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency in his next. Ratcliffe was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump's first term, leading the U.S. government's spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. “I look forward to John being the first person ever to serve in both of our Nation's highest Intelligence positions,” Trump said in a statement, calling him a “fearless fighter for the Constitutional Rights of all Americans” who would ensure “the Highest Levels of National Security, and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” Trump has chosen former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin to serve as his pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency . Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on X , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI.” “We will do so while protecting access to clean air and water,” he added. During his campaign, Trump often attacked the Biden administration's promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referring to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often told his audiences during the campaign his administration would “Drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. In a statement, Trump said Zeldin “will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.” Trump has named Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, as the new chairman of the agency tasked with regulating broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband. Carr is a longtime member of the commission and served previously as the FCC’s general counsel. He has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate three times and was nominated by both Trump and President Joe Biden to the commission. Carr made past appearances on “Fox News Channel," including when he decried Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' pre-Election Day appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He wrote an op-ed last month defending a satellite company owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk. Rep. Elise Stefanik is a representative from New York and one of Trump's staunchest defenders going back to his first impeachment. Elected to the House in 2014, Stefanik was selected by her GOP House colleagues as House Republican Conference chair in 2021, when former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after publicly criticizing Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik, 40, has served in that role ever since as the third-ranking member of House leadership. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. If confirmed, she would represent American interests at the U.N. as Trump vows to end the war waged by Russia against Ukraine begun in 2022. He has also called for peace as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in Gaza and its invasion of Lebanon to target Hezbollah. President-elect Donald Trump says he's chosen former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker to serve as U.S. ambassador to NATO. Trump has expressed skepticism about the Western military alliance for years. Trump said in a statement Wednesday that Whitaker is “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot” who “will ensure the United States’ interests are advanced and defended” and “strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability.” The choice of Whitaker as the nation’s representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is an unusual one, given his background is as a lawyer and not in foreign policy. Trump will nominate former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests as it wages wars against the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah. “He loves Israel, and likewise the people of Israel love him,” Trump said in a statement. “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Trump has been praised by some in this important Republican voting bloc for moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Trump on Tuesday named real estate investor Steven Witkoff to be special envoy to the Middle East. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and was golfing with him at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Witkoff “is a Highly Respected Leader in Business and Philanthropy,” Trump said of Witkoff in a statement. “Steve will be an unrelenting Voice for PEACE, and make us all proud." Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Trump said Wednesday that he will nominate Gen. Keith Kellogg to serve as assistant to the president and special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, a retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues, served as National Security Advisor to Trump's former Vice President Mike Pence. For the America First Policy Institute, one of several groups formed after Trump left office to help lay the groundwork for the next Republican administration, Kellogg in April wrote that “bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties.” (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib) Trump asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, to be his national security adviser, Trump announced in a statement Tuesday. The move puts Waltz in the middle of national security crises, ranging from efforts to provide weapons to Ukraine and worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea to the persistent attacks in the Middle East by Iran proxies and the push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah. “Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda,” Trump's statement said, "and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength!” Waltz is a three-term GOP congressman from east-central Florida. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and also worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Stephen Miller, an immigration hardliner , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump's priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump's first administration. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump's policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation's economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people who are in the United States illegally. Since Trump left office in 2021, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization made up of former Trump advisers aimed at challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as free speech and national security. Thomas Homan, 62, has been tasked with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. Homan, who served under Trump in his first administration leading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was widely expected to be offered a position related to the border, an issue Trump made central to his campaign. Though Homan has insisted such a massive undertaking would be humane, he has long been a loyal supporter of Trump's policy proposals, suggesting at a July conference in Washington that he would be willing to "run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen.” Democrats have criticized Homan for his defending Trump's “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings during his first administration, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. Dr. Mehmet Oz, 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime television talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz's bid for elected office. Elon Musk, left, and Vivek Ramaswamy speak before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at an Oct. 27 campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. Trump on Tuesday said Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency" — which is not, despite the name, a government agency. The acronym “DOGE” is a nod to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency, dogecoin. Trump said Musk and Ramaswamy will work from outside the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance” and will partner with the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” He added the move would shock government systems. It's not clear how the organization will operate. Musk, owner of X and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Trump won the presidential election. Ramaswamy suspended his campaign in January and threw his support behind Trump. Trump said the two will “pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.” Russell Vought held the position during Trump’s first presidency. After Trump’s initial term ended, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought was closely involved with Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that he tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Vought has also previously worked as the executive and budget director for the Republican Study Committee, a caucus for conservative House Republicans. He also worked at Heritage Action, the political group tied to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. Dan Scavino, deputy chief of staff Scavino, whom Trump's transition referred to in a statement as one of “Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides,” was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 campaign, as well as his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino had run Trump's social media profile in the White House during his first administration. He was also held in contempt of Congress in 2022 after a month-long refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee’s investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. James Blair, deputy chief of staff Blair was political director for Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump's economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign this year, a driving force behind the candidate's “Trump can fix it” slogan and his query to audiences this fall if they were better off than four years ago. Taylor Budowich, deputy chief of staff Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump's 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Budowich also had served as a spokesman for Trump after his presidency. William McGinley, White House counsel McGinley was White House Cabinet secretary during Trump's first administration, and was outside legal counsel for the Republican National Committee's election integrity effort during the 2024 campaign. In a statement, Trump called McGinley “a smart and tenacious lawyer who will help me advance our America First agenda, while fighting for election integrity and against the weaponization of law enforcement.” Jay Bhattacharya, National Institutes of Health Trump has chosen Dr. Jay Bhattacharya to lead the National Institutes of Health. Bhattacharya is a physician and professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, and is a critic of pandemic lockdowns and vaccine mandates. He promoted the idea of herd immunity during the pandemic, arguing that people at low risk should live normally while building up immunity to COVID-19 through infection. The National Institutes of Health funds medical research through competitive grants to researchers at institutions throughout the nation. NIH also conducts its own research with thousands of scientists working at its labs in Bethesda, Maryland. Jamieson Greer, U.S. trade representative Kevin Hassett, Director of the White House National Economic Council Trump is turning to two officials with experience navigating not only Washington but the key issues of income taxes and tariffs as he fills out his economic team. He announced he has chosen international trade attorney Jamieson Greer to be his U.S. trade representative and Kevin Hassett as director of the White House National Economic Council. While Trump has in several cases nominated outsiders to key posts, these picks reflect a recognition that his reputation will likely hinge on restoring the public’s confidence in the economy. Trump said in a statement that Greer was instrumental in his first term in imposing tariffs on China and others and replacing the trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, “therefore making it much better for American Workers.” Hassett, 62, served in the first Trump term as chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers. He has a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania and worked at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute before joining the Trump White House in 2017. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.

Channel 4 Big Fat Quiz Of The Year viewers have same complaint as Strictly star debuts

Big Fat Quiz of The Year viewers all had the same complaint after a Strictly Come Dancing star made his debut. The annual quiz show was back tonight for another episode to mark the end of 2024. Richard Ayoade teamed up with Katherine Ryan, Chris McCausland partnered with Maisie Adam, and Judi Love teamed up with Rob Beckett. Jimmy Carr hosted the special quiz event, but fans were left puzzled by the format of the show. Strictly Come Dancing winner, Chris was on the show, but with most of the rounds involving pictures and other visual content, fans were struggling to understand how the show had made steps for Chris to take part in the programme, as Maisie had to explain the images to him. One fan wrote: " #BigFatQuizOfTheYear the questions are tough for Chris, but basically this show isn't much about questions," whilst a second added: "Chris McCausland is hardly the best booking for the #bigfatquizoftheyear when almost every round involves something visual." A third shared in response to the message on Twitter : "I'd say almost every round involving something visual is hardly the best format when one of the bookings is Chris McCausland." A fourth penned: "I love #bigfatquizoftheyear but was thinking about how they would have adapted it to make sure Chris could be involved with the picture rounds etc... the answer seems to be not at all?!?! I’m not visually impaired so rly not an authority on this but... what is going on?" as a fifth wrote: "Love seeing Chris on soo many shows atm #BigFatQuizOfTheYear ." (sic) Chris previously admitted he was "worn out" following his Strictly win. He said on Lorraine: "It’s been a really emotional Saturday night and I’m still kind of feeling worn down by it. Three and a half months rehearsing is relentless, it’s consuming. Physically and mentally it takes its toll." The comedian revealed earlier today that he was on the show. He wrote on social media: "Tonight you can catch me on #BigFatQuizOfTheYear on @Channel4 - We filmed this during the semi-final week of Strictly so I had already done eight hours of dancing before I got to enjoy this sit down, so tune in to see me looking tired but grateful for the rest." *The Big Fat Quiz of the Year is available to catch up on My4.

www rich9 net The Jigawa State Government has flagged off the departure of 30 newly recruited master technicians to China for specialised training in agricultural mechanisation in a bid to revolutionise its agricultural sector. This move is part of the state’s broader strategy to modernise agriculture and enhance productivity through advanced technology and capacity building. PUNCH Online reports that the 30 technicians travelling to China will undergo six to eight weeks of training in agricultural equipment maintenance and operation. These individuals, who are graduates with engineering and agricultural engineering backgrounds, are expected to return as master technicians equipped to manage the service centres and maintain the machinery. Governor Umar Namadi, who witnessed the technicians’ departure on Friday at the Council’s Chamber, Government House, Dutse, described the initiative as a landmark moment in the state’s agricultural history, reiterating that “agriculture remains the basis of Jigawa State’s economy.: Namadi stressed the government’s commitment to mechanising farming practices to boost proficiency and reduce manual labour among teaming farmers across the state. To facilitate this transformation, according to Namadi, “the state government has established 60 service centres across the state, along with the appointment of a managing director for the Jigawa State Farm Mechanisation Programme.” “The company will oversee the deployment of farm machinery and ensure its maintenance and operational sustainability,” he added. He said, “By modernising agriculture, we are securing the future of Jigawa State and creating opportunities for generations to come.” He explained that “Jigawa State Government has also made substantial progress in procuring essential farm implements, including 300 tractors, 60 combine harvesters, disc ploughs, sprayers, and other equipment.” Related News Jigawa creates e-portal for aides to avoid bottlenecks Jigawa tanker explosion: Investigation panel confirms 209 dead, 99 injured Sharia court frees Jigawa commissioner accused of adultery Accordingly, Namadi revealed that 65% of the payment for the machinery has been made, with the remaining 35% expected to be completed by the end of next month, adding that deliveries of the equipment are anticipated to begin by late December 2024 or early January 2025. However, the governor emphasized that these machines will be made accessible to farmers across the state through the service centres, where farmers can hire tractors and other equipment at heavily subsidized rates. Earlier, the state Commissioner for Agriculture, Muttaka Namadi, stated that the training is part of a comprehensive capacity-building initiative under the Jigawa Agricultural Mechanisation Support System. He stated that, in total, the programme will train 2,726 individuals in various specializations, including tractor operation, fleet management, and service centre management. “The initiative is expected to create approximately 8,000 indirect jobs while servicing a minimum of 180,000 hectares annually,” he highlighted. Muttaka, who noted that the training of the 30 technicians in China is a significant step towards achieving this goal, also expressed optimism that the initiative would have a positive impact on the state’s economy and the lives of its citizens. Speaking with reporters, one of the beneficiaries, Abubakar Muhammad, said, “I’m one of the 30 technicians selected for the advanced training in agricultural mechanization in China. I’m grateful to the Jigawa State Government for this opportunity, which I believe will equip me with the necessary skills to contribute to the state’s agricultural development.” “I am eager to learn and return to Jigawa State to share my knowledge with others, added Abubakar Another beneficiary, Sadiq Abdullahi, said, “This training is a dream come true. I have always been passionate about agriculture and machinery, and this opportunity will enable me to combine both interests. I am confident that the training will enhance my skills and knowledge, allowing me to make a meaningful contribution to Jigawa State’s agricultural sector. I appreciate the state government’s investment in our future.” Additionally, another 32-year-old among the beneficiaries, Yusuf Surajo, said, “I am thrilled to be part of this pioneering group of technicians undergoing training in China. I believe that this training will not only benefit me but also the entire state, as we will be equipped to provide efficient and effective services to farmers. I am grateful to the governor for his vision and commitment to transforming Jigawa State’s agricultural sector.”Airborne LiDAR Market Mapping the Future with High-Precision Aerial Survey Technologies 11-23-2024 12:04 PM CET | IT, New Media & Software Press release from: SkyQuest Technology Group Airborne LiDAR Market "In recent years, the global Airborne LiDAR Market has witnessed a dynamic shift, influenced by changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and a growing emphasis on sustainability. 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Santa and Mrs. Claus use military transports to bring Christmas to Alaska Native villageAndy Murray enters new chapter with Novak Djokovic as coach of long-time rival

Stewart Announces Contract Extension for CEO Fred Eppinger

PNST stock touches 52-week low at $0.56 amid market challengesWheel of Fortune contestants regularly whiff their bonus puzzles, but the winner of Monday, December 2’s episode was in for a particularly heartbreaking spin. Her additional letter choices added ZERO letters to a tricky puzzle, which was even more shocking since she had the advantage of a Wild Card wedge. The tough break involved Kelsey Sowders, a mom of three and steak/wine savant from Tomball, Texas. After an astounding performance, she proceeded to the coveted bonus round, having racked up $40,398 in cash, a prize trip to Japan, and the elusive Wild Card. This meant she got to pick five additional letters instead of four, which often spells success. Selecting “What are You Doing?” as her category, with the off-side support of her eldest son Grant and husband, Sowders joined Ryan Seacrest center stage. She landed on the star portion of the wheel, and the host assured, “Perhaps it’s good luck.” “I hope so,” Sowders said. The two-word puzzle read as “_EE_N_’ ‘_ _ S_,’ and she chose an additional “MFDA,” and H.” However, Vanna White didn’t move an inch as the letter choices were useless, making the puzzle very difficult. “Oh no!” Sowders exclaimed in disappointment. She went through the five stages of grief, staring in disbelief, blowing a raspberry in frustration, and recollecting herself. Seacrest wished her the best, “You’re doing great so far tonight.” But the cruel twist of fate left Sowder unable to solve the puzzle under the 10-second timer, which ended up being “KEEPING BUSY.” She was close, even able to get the first word, but nowhere near the second. “Oh no!” Sowders exclaimed once more as the full puzzle was displayed. Then, cutting back to the contestant and Seacrest, the second dagger came. The host revealed from his prize card contained $75,000 and she hid her face from it. “I don’t want to see that,” she said as Seacrest winced at the camera. “Don’t worry,” the host told her as she emotionally recovered and told him, “That’s okay.” The game show shared the big miss on YouTube, where fans expressed their shock and empathized with the player’s reaction. “That was a tough one. I didn’t get it either. Props to her for getting the first word right, but that second word was tricky as hell. I’m glad she’s not walking away empty-handed, though. She still won up until that point and nobody can take that from her,” one fan wrote. “Impossible without the right letter choices. Been a few of those this season,” wrote another. “If she would have won, she would have won over $100,000 cash without actually landing on the envelope! That’s really disappointing. Also, the fact that she had 5 letters but didn’t get a single one?! Should I be disappointed or impressed?” asked a third. “Ouch!” wrote a fourth. “You don’t see $75,000 all that often!” Meanwhile , Seacrest had huge shoes to fill replacing the legendary Pat Sajak after four decades for Season 42. His debut month was the strongest ratings month for WoF in the past three years, and viewers were already treated to a viral moment (via a round of sausage) . That said, there have been some questionable host moments according to fans. In September, Seacrest suffered what fans dubbed his “first blooper” , involving a delayed reaction to rewarding a bonus round. Fans also called out the host for ruling against another player before the timer was up. Most controversially, fans recently called out the host for not reminding a player to pick a letter , leading to him losing the game in a misunderstanding and by a mere $147. Another puzzling pattern has emerged, which is that no player has won the bonus round in a full week , many fans blaming the players, not the host. As for Sowders, another contestant recently botched their bonus puzzle in a similar way after choosing poor letters, but in that instance, they didn’t have the boost of the Wild Card wedge. Wheel of Fortune , Weeknights, Check your local listings More Headlines:World reaches $300 bn climate finance deal at COP29

Cibus director Gerhard Prante sells $4,439 worth of stockAlex Ovechkin has a broken left fibula and is expected to be out four to six weeks, an injury that pauses the Washington Capitals superstar captain’s pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s NHL career goals record. The Capitals updated Ovechkin’s status Thursday after he was evaluated by team doctors upon returning from a three-game trip. The 39-year-old broke the leg in a shin-on-shin collision Monday night with Utah's Jack McBain, and some of his closest teammates knew it was not good news even before Ovechkin was listed as week to week and placed on injured reserve. “Everyone’s bummed out,” said winger Tom Wilson, who has played with Ovechkin since 2013. “We were sitting there saying: ‘This is weird. Like, it’s unbelievable that he’s actually hurt.’ It’s one of those things where like, he’s going to miss games? I’ve been around a long time, and it’s new to me.” Ovechkin in his first 19 seasons missed 59 games — and just 35 because of injury. Durability even while throwing his body around with his physical style is a big reason he is on track to pass Gretzky’s mark of 894 goals that once looked unapproachable. “He doesn’t go out there and just coast around,” Wilson said. “He’s played 20 years every shift running over guys and skating. He’s a power forward, the best goal-scorer ever maybe, and he’s a power forward that plays the game really hard.” Ovechkin surged to the top of the league with 15 goals in his first 18 games this season. He was on pace to break the record and score No. 895 sometime in February. “You know when goal-scorers start scoring, it’s dangerous,” said defenseman John Carlson, who has been teammates with Ovechkin since 2009-10. “There was a bit of that in the downs that everyone was feeling about it too, of course. We see him coming to the rink every day, we know what’s at stake. You never want anyone to get injured, but there’s a lot to it and certainly he was playing his best hockey in years.” ___ AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

The Miami Heat have become notorious for finding “diamond in the rough” players to play important roles in their rotation. These players went undrafted, yet find their find their way to playing meaningful minutes for Miami teams that reach the postseason. It certainly seems that they are the best at finding these kinds of players. On Sunday, the Heat defeated the team with the best record in the NBA, the Cleveland Cavaliers , by the score of 122-113. Another undrafted player, Dru Smith , played a large role in ensuring Miami left with the win. Have The Heat Found Another Undrafted Diamond In The Rough? Dru Smith Yet Another Undrafted Find By Heat The Heat’s victory at home improved their record to 12-10 on the season. That places them with the fifth-best record in the Eastern Conference. They have now won three straight after falling under .500. The 26-year-old Smith, now in his third season, played a large role in Sunday’s victory. The 6-foot-3 guard scored 11 points in the fourth quarter alone which helped to secure the win for the Heat. It was the fourth-straight game in which the undrafted Smith saw plenty of action for Miami. In the last two games, Smith has seen 55 minutes of game time. In the previous two, he saw 33. That has easily been the most sustained playing time for Smith as he had just 29 prior appearances in the NBA before those four games. He has mostly been on two-way deals with Miami, but he was waived by the team in late December of 2022. He signed a two-way deal with the Brooklyn Nets soon after and played 10 games for them in the 2022-23 season. Smith re-joined the Heat last season and was converted to a standard deal days before the regular season tipped off. Unfortunately, he played just nine games before a season-ending injury. Playing against the same Cavaliers team he played on Sunday, he slipped on a raised part of the floor in Cleveland in late November of 2023. It caused a torn ACL which ended his season very prematurely. Now in the last four outings, Smith has posted averages of 7.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.3 steals. He has shot 11-22 (50%) from the field and an impressive 7-12 (58.3%) from beyond the arc in that time. For now, he has seemingly surpassed 14-year veteran Alec Burks in the rotation. Dru Smith Joins These Other Undrafted Key Players For Miami As mentioned, Smith was not an NBA draft pick. He went undrafted in 2021 and didn’t play in the NBA in 2021-22, only spending time with the Heat’s G League affiliate, the Sioux Falls Skyforce. Smith is far from the only recent player to become a rotational piece for the Heat after going undrafted. Who are some other players to play key roles for Miami after going undrafted? Some of those players include Duncan Robinson , Max Strus , Gabe Vincent , and Kendrick Nunn . All four played large roles despite going undrafted on the last two Heat teams to reach the NBA Finals in 2020 and 2023 (Robinson in both, Nunn in 2020, Strus and Vincent in 2023). If you go further back, Udonis Haslem is the most iconic undrafted Heat player in team history. With such an extensive list of undrafted “diamonds in the rough”, it shouldn’t surprise anyone if Dru Smith becomes the next one. This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

Stewart Announces Contract Extension for CEO Fred EppingerNone

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