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NASSAU, Bahamas (AP) — Javon Small scored five of his 31 points in overtime and Tucker DeVries added key free throws late in regulation and finished with 16 points as West Virginia beat No. 3 Gonzaga 86-78 in the Battle 4 Atlantis on Wednesday. Small's layup with under 2 minutes left in OT gave West Virginia a 79-75 lead. After a Gonzaga miss, Sencire Harris hit two free throws to make it a six-point lead. With 27.1 seconds left, Harris made a steal and scored on a dunk for an eight-point lead, putting the game out of reach. Amani Hansberry scored a career-high 19 points and Toby Okani added 10 for West Virginia (3-2). Braden Huff scored 19 points and Khalif Battle 16 for Gonzaga (5-1). Gonzaga showed its depth, outscoring the West Virginia bench 30-2. West Virginia’s only loss was by 24 points at Pitt, but the rebuild under Darian DeVries is showing promise. Gonzaga turned it over at midcourt late in regulation when Tucker DeVries poked it away from Nolan Hickman and raced the other way before getting fouled. DeVries made two free throws with 5.9 seconds left to tie it at 71-all. Battle inbounded the ball and got it back, but lost control on a drive as time expired. The shorter Mountaineers outrebounded Gonzaga 42-36 and shot 50% in the second half, battling the Zags to a draw in the paint. Nembhard had 12 assists and just one turnover in 43 minutes, but was 1 of 10 from the field. West Virginia will play Louisville on Thursday in the winner's bracket. Gonzaga faces No. 14 Indiana on the consolation side. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball

5. Integration of TechnologyThe crackdown on account sharing and the reduction of membership benefits by Tencent Video, Youku, and iQIYI reflect a broader trend in the online streaming industry. As platforms strive to increase their profitability and maintain a competitive edge in the market, they are willing to sacrifice user convenience and satisfaction to achieve these goals. This has raised concerns among subscribers about the future of online streaming services and the value they provide to consumers. Strengthening Counter-Cyclical Adjustment Beyond the Norm, Monetary Policy Emphasizes "Moderate Easing"! Detailed Explanation of Economic Work for Next Year - more Proactive and Effective Macro Policies

Suning Real Estate Group has emerged as one of the leading players in the Jiangsu Province real estate market in 2024. With a focus on sustainable development and customer-centric solutions, Suning Real Estate Group has achieved impressive sales figures and maintained a strong presence in key cities such as Nanjing and Suzhou. The company's commitment to innovation and excellence has solidified its position as a top performer in the sector.Directed by visionary filmmaker, the sequel aims to build upon the rich tapestry of Chinese mythology and folklore that made the original film such a resounding success. With cutting-edge animation technology and a team of skilled animators and artists, the film promises to deliver stunning visuals and breathtaking action sequences that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.

We sincerely appreciate the understanding and support of our valued patrons during this challenging period. Your safety and well-being are of utmost importance to us, and we are fully committed to regaining your trust and confidence in our bathhouse.By Jen Psaki This is an adapted excerpt from the Dec. 2 episode of "Inside with Jen Psaki." It’s getting to be that time when the news cycle is so crazy that some of the wildest storylines out of Trump world start to fly under the radar. That’s what happened this past weekend when Donald Trump announced his choice to be ambassador to France — a position once held by Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson. On Saturday, Trump announced on social media he would give that plum diplomatic post to New Jersey real estate mogul Charles Kushner, father of his son-in-law Jared Kushner. Like Trump, the elder Kushner has also faced allegations of corruption throughout his life as he built up a family empire. Seems like a typical story out of the Trump orbit, right? A wealthy convicted felon who’s a friend of the family. In fact, if you’re curious why Kushner wasn’t in Trump’s last administration, it might be because he’s a convicted felon. Back in 2004, Kushner pleaded guilty to 18 federal charges, arising from hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal campaign donations he made as a New Jersey political power broker. Kushner admitted to violating election laws, tax evasion and witness tampering. He ended up serving two years in federal prison. Seems like a typical story out of the Trump orbit, right? A wealthy convicted felon who’s a friend of the family. But actually, no one in Trump’s inner circle has ever done what Kushner did to obstruct justice. Back in 2003, when the federal grand jury investigation of Kushner began, the jury heard evidence from two key witnesses: Kushner’s sister and her husband. When he pleaded guilty, Kushner acknowledged that after he found out some members of his family were cooperating with authorities, he arranged to have a prostitute seduce his brother-in-law in a motel room in New Jersey where video cameras were installed. The plot succeeded and Kushner later had a videotape sent to his sister. Then-U.S. Attorney Chris Christie called it “one of the most loathsome, disgusting crimes” he had prosecuted. But in Trump’s last days as president in 2020, he gave the elder Kushner a presidential pardon, one that was roundly criticized even among his many other questionable pardons. And now Trump wants him to be the ambassador in Paris and the top diplomat to one of America’s oldest nuclear-armed allies. The ambassador to a country where they have the internet and Google and certainly know all about Kushner’s past. This would be bigger news if not for the avalanche of alarming reports surrounding Trump’s other nominees. But guess what? Kushner isn’t even the only presidential in-law named to get a job this week. Then-U.S. Attorney Chris Christie called it “one of the most loathsome, disgusting crimes” that he had prosecuted. On Sunday, Trump announced on social media that he was naming Massad Boulos to be a senior White House adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs. Boulos is a Lebanese American businessman and the CEO of SCOA Nigeria, a billion-dollar auto company. He has no diplomatic experience, but he is the father-in-law of Trump’s daughter Tiffany Trump. So, I guess the question is: Just how many important government positions can you hand out to wealthy friends and family, including convicted felons with no relevant experience, before that government crumbles under the weight of its own corruption? I honestly don’t know the answer. But we may be about to find out. Allison Detzel contributed. Jen Psaki is the host of "Inside with Jen Psaki" airing Sundays at 12 p.m. ET and Mondays at 8 p.m. EST. She is the former White House press secretary for President Joe Biden.

US coach Emma Hayes admits to anthem uncertainty ahead of England stalemateOmnicom Group Inc. stock underperforms Tuesday when compared to competitors

The meteorological phenomenon, known as 'lake-effect snow,' occurs when cold air passes over the relatively warmer waters of a lake, causing intense bands of snow to develop and unleash their fury upon nearby land areas. This unique weather pattern is set to impact a number of communities located in close proximity to large bodies of water, such as the Great Lakes region in North America.As the reform and restructuring of village and town banks continue to unfold, it is essential for all stakeholders to work together to ensure a smooth transition and minimize potential disruptions to the financial system. By promoting dialogue, cooperation, and transparency, policymakers, regulators, and industry players can collectively contribute to the successful transformation of the banking sector and its role in supporting sustainable economic growth.

Waste Connections Inc. stock rises Thursday, still underperforms marketHICKSVILLE, N.Y. , Dec. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Flagstar Financial, Inc. (NYSE: FLG) (the "Company") today announced the appointment of Brian Callanan , Senior Managing Director and General Counsel at Liberty Strategic Capital ("Liberty"), to its Board of Directors, effective December 16, 2024 . Commenting on the appointment, Joseph M. Otting , Chairman, President, and CEO said, "I'm pleased to have Brian join our Board. His proven track record and expertise in financial services, along with his strategic insights will be instrumental as we continue to execute on our transformation and long-term vision. Brian's perspectives will provide valuable guidance, and his leadership will play a critical role in driving sustainable growth, ensuring we achieve long-term success and maximize the value we deliver to our shareholders, employees, and clients." Callanan is a distinguished lawyer with extensive experience in financial regulation, regulatory compliance, and financial technology. At Liberty, Callanan leads the firm's legal function, serves on its Investment Committee, and focuses on financial sector investments. Prior to joining Liberty, he served as General Counsel of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, overseeing 2,000 lawyers across the department. As Chief General Counsel, he played a key role in major initiatives such as economic rescue programs during COVID-19, the design of new economic sanctions, and the implementation of tax reform. While serving as Deputy General Counsel, Callanan managed major litigation and advised on regulatory reform efforts, among other responsibilities. For his service, he received the Alexander Hamilton Award, the department's highest honor. This appointment aligns with the $1.05 billion equity investment in March 2024 , which stipulated that two Board seats would be granted to lead investor Liberty Strategic Capital. With Callanan's addition, the Company's Board of Directors, which was reconstituted earlier in 2024, expands to nine members, including Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, Joseph M. Otting , Milton Berlinski , Alessandro P. DiNello , Alan Frank , Marshall Lux , Lead Independent Director Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin , Allen Puwalski , and Jennifer Whip. About Flagstar Financial, Inc. Flagstar Financial, Inc. is the parent company of Flagstar Bank, N.A., one of the largest regional banks in the country. The Company is headquartered in Hicksville, New York . At September 30, 2024, the Company had $114.4 billion of assets, $73.0 billion of loans, deposits of $83 .0 billion, and total stockholders' equity of $8 .6 billion. Flagstar Bank, N.A. operates over 400 branches, including a significant presence in the Northeast and Midwest and locations in high growth markets in the Southeast and West Coast. In addition, the Bank has approximately 80 private banking teams located in over 10 cities in the metropolitan New York City region and on the West Coast, which serve the needs of high-net worth individuals and their businesses. Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This release may include forward‐looking statements by the Company and our authorized officers pertaining to such matters as our goals, beliefs, intentions, and expectations regarding (a) revenues, earnings, loan production, asset quality, liquidity position, capital levels, risk analysis, divestitures, acquisitions, and other material transactions, among other matters; (b) the future costs and benefits of the actions we may take; (c) our assessments of credit risk and probable losses on loans and associated allowances and reserves; (d) our assessments of interest rate and other market risks; (e) our ability to execute on our strategic plan, including the sufficiency of our internal resources, procedures and systems; (f) our ability to attract, incentivize, and retain key personnel and the roles of key personnel; (g) our ability to achieve our financial and other strategic goals, including those related to our merger with Flagstar Bancorp, Inc., which was completed on December 1, 2022, our acquisition of substantial portions of the former Signature Bank through an FDIC-assisted transaction, and our ability to fully and timely implement the risk management programs institutions greater than $100 billion in assets must maintain; (h) the effect on our capital ratios of the approval of certain proposals approved by our shareholders during our 2024 annual meeting of shareholders; (i) the conversion or exchange of shares of the Company's preferred stock; (j) the payment of dividends on shares of the Company's capital stock, including adjustments to the amount of dividends payable on shares of the Company's preferred stock; (k) the availability of equity and dilution of existing equity holders associated with amendments to the 2020 Omnibus Incentive Plan; (l) the effects of the reverse stock split; and (m) transactions relating to the sale of our mortgage business and mortgage warehouse business. Forward‐looking statements are typically identified by such words as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "outlook," "estimate," "forecast," "project," "should," "confident," and other similar words and expressions, and are subject to numerous assumptions, risks, and uncertainties, which change over time. Additionally, forward‐looking statements speak only as of the date they are made; the Company does not assume any duty, and does not undertake, to update our forward‐looking statements. Furthermore, because forward‐looking statements are subject to assumptions and uncertainties, actual results or future events could differ, possibly materially, from those anticipated in our statements, and our future performance could differ materially from our historical results. Our forward‐looking statements are subject to, among others, the following principal risks and uncertainties: general economic conditions and trends, either nationally or locally; conditions in the securities, credit and financial markets; changes in interest rates; changes in deposit flows, and in the demand for deposit, loan, and investment products and other financial services; changes in real estate values; changes in the quality or composition of our loan or investment portfolios, including associated allowances and reserves; changes in future allowance for credit losses, including changes required under relevant accounting and regulatory requirements; the ability to pay future dividends; changes in our capital management and balance sheet strategies and our ability to successfully implement such strategies; recent turnover in our Board of Directors and our executive management team; changes in our strategic plan, including changes in our internal resources, procedures and systems, and our ability to successfully implement such plan; changes in competitive pressures among financial institutions or from non‐financial institutions; changes in legislation, regulations, and policies; the imposition of restrictions on our operations by bank regulators; the outcome of pending or threatened litigation, or of investigations or any other matters before regulatory agencies, whether currently existing or commencing in the future; the success of our blockchain and fintech activities, investments and strategic partnerships; the restructuring of our mortgage business; our ability to recognize anticipated expense reductions and enhanced efficiencies with respect to our recently announced strategic workforce reduction; the impact of failures or disruptions in or breaches of the Company's operational or security systems, data or infrastructure, or those of third parties, including as a result of cyberattacks or campaigns; the impact of natural disasters, extreme weather events, military conflict (including the Russia / Ukraine conflict, the conflict in Israel and surrounding areas, the possible expansion of such conflicts and potential geopolitical consequences), terrorism or other geopolitical events; and a variety of other matters which, by their nature, are subject to significant uncertainties and/or are beyond our control. Our forward-looking statements are also subject to the following principal risks and uncertainties with respect to our merger with Flagstar Bancorp, which was completed on December 1, 2022 , and our acquisition of substantial portions of the former Signature Bank through an FDIC-assisted transaction: the possibility that the anticipated benefits of the transactions will not be realized when expected or at all; the possibility of increased legal and compliance costs, including with respect to any litigation or regulatory actions related to the business practices of acquired companies or the combined business; diversion of management's attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities; the possibility that the Company may be unable to achieve expected synergies and operating efficiencies in or as a result of the transactions within the expected timeframes or at all; and revenues following the transactions may be lower than expected. Additionally, there can be no assurance that the Community Benefits Agreement entered into with NCRC, which was contingent upon the closing of the Company's merger with Flagstar Bancorp, Inc., will achieve the results or outcome originally expected or anticipated by us as a result of changes to our business strategy, performance of the U.S. economy, or changes to the laws and regulations affecting us, our customers, communities we serve, and the U.S. economy (including, but not limited to, tax laws and regulations). More information regarding some of these factors is provided in the Risk Factors section of our Annual Report on Form 10‐K/A for the year ended December 31, 2023, Quarterly Report on Forms 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2024 , June 30, 2024 , and September 30, 2024 , and in other SEC reports we file. Our forward‐looking statements may also be subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those we may discuss in this news release, on our conference call, during investor presentations, or in our SEC filings, which are accessible on our website and at the SEC's website, www.sec.gov . Investor Contact: Salvatore J. DiMartino (516) 683-4286 Media Contact: Nicole Yelland (248) 219-9234 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/flagstar-financial-inc-appoints-brian-callanan-to-board-of-directors-302331692.html SOURCE Flagstar Financial, Inc.baccarat odds 。

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DrBalcony App Redefines Balcony Inspections with Unparalleled EfficiencyTEHRAN – Female scholars constitute 665 out of 4,818 most-cited researchers of the country, more than 13 percent of the total, Ahmad Fazelzadeh, the head of the Islamic World Science Citation (ISC) Institute, has said. In the past Iranian calendar year (March 2023 – March 2024), women accounted for 12.75 percent of most-cited researchers. With 29.57 percent share, the Ministry of Health has the highest number of the most-cited female researchers, IRNA quoted Fazelzadeh as saying. According to the recent report of ISC, in the list of one percent of researchers in the world which is based on the Essential Science Indicators (ESI) database, a total of 177 Iranian female researchers have been recognized in the areas of Agricultural Sciences, Clinical Medicine, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience and Psychology, Engineering, Material Science, Psychiatry/Psychology, Computer Science, Physics, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Social Sciences, Generalities, Physics, Plant and Animal Sciences, Immunology, and some have obtained the necessary points even in several fields, he added. The official went on to say that according to the Stanford University List which was conducted by a number of researchers from Stanford University and the Elsevier Institute via analyzing the data of the Scopus database, 73 highly cited Iranian female researchers are among the top two percent in the world (service performance) in eight subject areas including Clinical Medicine, Chemistry, Biomedicine, Strategic Technologies (Artificial Intelligence, Nanotechnology, etc.), Biology, Physics, Astrology, Information Technology and Communications, and Engineering. Moreover, 375 female Iranian highly-cited researchers are among the top two percent of the world (one-year performance) in 13 subject areas of Clinical Medicine, Biomedicine, Chemistry, Engineering, Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Strategic Technologies (Artificial Intelligence, Nanotechnology, etc.), Information Technology and Communication, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Physics and Astronomy, Public Health and Health Services, Biology, Statistics and Mathematics, Communication and Textual Research have obtained the necessary points. Using the data indexed in the ISC database, ISC identifies highly cited Iranian researchers in Human Sciences, Social Sciences, Art, and Architecture. In the latest announced list, highly cited researchers have been introduced in the period of 10 years (since 2013). The criteria for selecting researchers in this list is the number of citations made to their scientific productions. Some 40 female researchers in 14 subject areas including Human Sciences, Social Sciences, Art and Architecture, Psychology, Sociology and Political Sciences, Language and Linguistics, Business, Management and Accounting, Theology and Islamic Studies, Educational Sciences, Philosophy, Geographical Sciences, Historical Sciences, Knowledge and Information Science, and other areas gained required scores. According to Zahra Behrouz-Azar, the Vice President for Women and Family Affairs, women account for more than 24 percent of inventions in the country, compared to the global average of 17 percent. “Unfortunately, only 12 percent of entrepreneurship and start-ups are founded by women. We hope that women’s presence in entrepreneurship reaches 30 percent by the end of the current administration,” Behrouz-Azar noted. The official went on to say that in Iran, entrepreneurship officially commenced in 2000. Following that it was defined as a field of study in universities, and the first entrepreneurial major as an interdisciplinary one launched at University of Tehran. Today, the concept of entrepreneurship is interwoven with various fields such as economy, psychology, culture, sociology, and even religion. With the conceptual development of entrepreneurial thought, women’s entrepreneurship begins to grow because there is a difference between men and women in terms of performance, motivation, and access to resources. One of the most important differences between entrepreneurship among women and men is the issue of motivation. Men’s motivation in entrepreneurship is more concerned with earning a living and increasing wealth, but women all over the world tend to use it to strengthen the family foundation. The most important goal in women’s entrepreneurship in the current administration is to promote motivation. Men entrepreneurs can more easily provide resources and capital for their businesses, but this happens less for women. Therefore, educated women face funding problems to start off their business. The government is well aware of the issue and is looking for solutions to boost access to finance for women entrepreneurs, Behrouz-azar highlighted. MT/MG

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Modern Political Campaigns Showcase Revolutionary Marketing Strategies for Business Growth - Commenting Albert Valiakhmetov, Founder of FlyX Marketing Athens, Greece, Nov. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In today's digital landscape, where competition is fierce and attention spans are limited, figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump demonstrate how strategic marketing-whether for a product or a presidential campaign-can redefine engagement. Albert Valiakhmetov, founder of FlyX Marketing, draws intriguing parallels between these strategies and effective brand advertising. Mirroring the tactics used in marketing to influence, engage, and ultimately, build loyalty. As Valiakhmetov observes, " The news that Donald Trump became president reminds us of how much presidential elections resemble classic marketing campaigns. " Both political and advertising campaigns share the fundamental aim of creating a connection with their audience-whether to win votes or attract loyal customers. https://flyxmarketing.com/ " Political campaigns today, especially those as influential as Trump's recent run, highlight marketing principles at their peak effectiveness, " Valiakhmetov explains. " By implementing similar strategies in business, FlyX Marketing has seen up to 200% growth for clients across various sectors. " Campaign strategies such as precision targeting, cross-platform message consistency, and emotionally resonant content have become crucial in both spheres, emphasizing the power of digital influence. Mastering Modern Influence for Brands Key insights from FlyX Marketing stem from current political campaign techniques that have reshaped their approach: Advanced Social Media Strategy: Like political messaging or Elon Musk's provocative use of platforms like X (formerly Twitter) to engage audiences, brand campaigns thrive on tailored approaches to maximize reach. Precision Demographic Targeting: As political campaigns focus on voter bases, FlyX Marketing connects brands with core demographics, leading to higher engagement. Cross-Platform Message Integration: Ensuring a unified message across digital platforms is as crucial in business as it is in politics. From Ballot Box to Brand Building " What's compelling about recent political strategies, such as those used in Trump's and Harris's campaigns, is their intelligent use of digital platforms. Similarly, Elon Musk's ability to spark viral conversations demonstrates the value of cross-platform engagement, a principle FlyX Marketing adopts to revolutionize brand connections. ”, Valiakhmetov notes. " In marketing, the goal is to influence purchasing behavior, while political propaganda seeks to steer public opinion, " Valiakhmetov explains, pointing to the similar foundations of both fields. Emotional Connection: Building Brand Loyalty Through Human Insight One of the standout elements of FlyX Marketing's strategy is creating a deep emotional connection with audiences, drawing on the same principles political campaigns use to sway public sentiment. Just as Trump's messaging struck a chord with voters on issues like economic stability, FlyX's campaigns emphasize brand stories that appeal to core human needs, offering customers relatable themes and solutions to everyday challenges. Digital Innovation at Work with FlyX Marketing FlyX Marketing takes inspiration from the efficiency seen in political campaigns by incorporating cutting-edge technology and data analytics to craft campaigns that resonate deeply. It embraces innovation akin to Elon Musk's ventures, utilizing cutting-edge tools like AI-driven analytics and real-time optimization to craft campaigns that deeply resonate with audiences. Key tools include: AI-Driven Analytics: Predictive models track engagement and fine-tune content, ensuring maximum relevance. Real-Time Optimization: Rapid adjustments increase reach and engagement with audiences. Strategic Audience Segmentation: Building personalized experiences ensures each demographic feels addressed. Platform-Specific Messaging: Tailored content for each channel optimizes overall campaign performance. Here are FlyX Marketing's full suite of services , designed to deliver cutting-edge performance marketing and AI-driven solutions. From advanced data analytics to strategic execution, each service is tailored to maximize growth and drive results. " The recent campaigns by Trump and Harris provide insight into the evolution of digital communication, " observes Valiakhmetov. " These strategies not only shape public opinion but demonstrate best practices in audience engagement for businesses looking to make a real impact." Revolutionizing Marketing with Campaign Insights FlyX Marketing's modern approach combines the following elements, proven to drive substantial results for clients: Viral Content Development: Creating shareable, high-impact content that aligns with brand goals. Data-Driven Strategy: Guiding marketing decisions with real-time data to optimize campaigns. Emotional Connection Building: Connecting on a personal level, similar to political storytelling. Platform-Specific Optimization: Adjusting strategies to maximize impact on each channel. Message Amplification: Reaching larger audiences with clarity and precision. The Future of Marketing in a Politically-Driven Landscape Looking forward, marketing experts can expect to see even greater integration of political strategies within brand advertising and by industry disruptors like Elon Musk, as all these industries increasingly rely on digital and data-driven tools to make impactful decisions. According to Valiakhmetov, the future of branding will likely mirror these trends, further blurring the lines between marketing and political campaigning. Choosing a marketing partner like FlyX Marketing ensures brands are not only prepared for these shifts but are also leading the way. With a proven track record in delivering customized, high-growth campaigns, FlyX continues to set new standards for success, making this era an exciting one for both brands and political strategists alike. More information about services, consultations, and insights can be found on the FlyX Marketing website or by contacting [email protected] . Media Contact Company Name: Flyx Marketing Contact Person: Nick Agamian Email: [email protected] Website: https://flyxmarketing.com/ Disclaimer: This content does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation to buy, or a recommendation of any security, product, or service. Furthermore, nothing in this press release should be interpreted as a suggestion to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security, or to participate in any specific investment strategy or transaction. It is your responsibility to assess the suitability of any investment, investment strategy, security, or related transaction based on your individual objectives, financial circumstances, and risk tolerance. Please consult your financial advisor, attorney, or tax advisor for guidance on your specific financial, legal, or tax situation. For more information, contact [email protected] .Hearts Melt As Golden Retriever 'Gently' Wakes Sibling Having a Bad Dream

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The arms race in large language artificial intelligence (AI) is heating up. Can the Gulf countries play a leading role in the sector, given the high savings, cheap energy and good political ties with the US? The tech billionaire Elon Musk has alarmed competitors, and intrigued customers and observers, by rapidly building a supercomputer, appropriately known as Colossus, in just 120 days, in Memphis Tennessee in a new data centre. Its purpose is to power his xAI technology, and it will be of an unprecedented scale: Some 100,000 graphics processing units supplied by Nvidia. Competitors are nervous. There is no guarantee that this formidable scaling up of computer power will give his xAI a superior edge, but no certainty that it won’t. Industry experts reckon that the tools at the rival OpenAI are currently superior, but the sheer computing muscle of Colossus may help xAI close the gap or overtake. What does this mean for the economic world, including the Gulf? The impact of AI is already being felt, will continue and likely intensify. You could say that there has been much hype around AI, accidents such as ‘hallucinations’ in large language models and technical glitches. But you could have made similar criticisms about the aviation sector in the early 20th century – there were crashes and failed models, but it still proceeded to transform long-distance travel around the globe. AI is at a similar stage 100 years on. And just as you need a skilled pilot for an aircraft, similar principles apply with AI. Harvard Business Review in its September-October edition refers to the development of ‘fusion skills’ – the most intelligent applications of AI in which human and artificial intelligence is most effectively combined. For example, breaking a complex problem down into sequential parts, and priming the large language model to address each challenge sequentially, beginning with the simplest, is more effective than asking it to solve a complex problem in one go. Researchers at Google DeepMind have found that this ‘least-to-most’ approach improves the accuracy of AI output from 16% to 99%. Research by the Boston Consulting Group has found that only a minority of firms gain substantial value from AI, and that the most successful companies ensure that the people, skills and processes are optimal. This is the 70-20-10 principle: 70% of the investment is in people and processes; 20% is in technology and data, and just 10% in the algorithms. The most effective companies used AI for growth and revenue generation, not just process efficiencies. In this rapidly developing technology, how should the Gulf countries invest and position themselves? It is likely that China and the US will remain the primary providers of AI, given the scale of the technological investment required, as illustrated by the examples of Elon Musk and his rivals. The response of the Gulf sovereign wealth funds and other key players has been promising. Rather than trying to compete with the US and China in a direct way, they are developing strategic support roles within the existing industry, while identifying niche opportunities for growth. Arabic language models constitute a promising industry. AI specialist companies within the region report that it costs around one third more to train an English large language model and then translate into Arabic, than to train one using Arabic inputs. Doing so can eliminate some of the western biases of English-language models. For Gulf economies, cheap energy offers another competitive advantage in developing AI hubs. Saudi Aramco has calculated that the cost of power locally is around 13% cheaper than the cost per kilowatt hour in the US. Given the considerable computing power needed for large language models, this is significant. Geopolitical considerations are of paramount importance. The Gulf states are political allies of the US, which does not want technological know-how falling into the hands of Iran or China. Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund PIF has announced a strategic partnership with Google Cloud to develop a specialist hub, which will be a research and education centre, including for Arabic language models, and a base for global enterprises and startups. It will be based near Dammam. This year the United Arab Emirates launched the fund MGX, totalling $100bn, with investors including BlackRock and Microsoft, dedicated to investing in AI companies. The AI revolution is well underway, and there will be significant returns for both providers and users. So far, the key players in the Gulf have made some smart strategic calls. The author is a Qatari banker, with many years of experience in the banking sector in senior positions. Related Story 61 countries to compete in 8th Katara Award for Reciting Holy Qur’an Sheikha Al Mayassa unveils 'The Race Is On' exhibition

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Vikings withstand Bears' furious rally, win on field goal in OTMcDermott+ Check-Up: December 20, 2024Unless you live alone, there's a good chance you've clashed with partners, roommates or other family members over just how warm your home should be in the winter. It's a debate as old as the itself: What is the ideal thermostat setting to balance personal comfort and the bank? And now that the cold months are upon us, battles over the thermostat are sure to begin. Depending on and how well you handle the cold, you could save some money by understanding the best method for programming your thermostat. So, before you go instigating more thermostat wars with others in your household, consider these tips from experts about proper home temperatures for the winter. Turns out, there's a magic number for what experts say you should set your thermostat to in the winter. That setting? 68 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the Department of Energy. If that's too specific, anywhere is a good target when it gets cold, Ram Narayanamurthy, deputy director of the U.S. Department of Energy's Building Technologies Office, told USA TODAY. “A home that’s at 70 degrees is quite comfortable,” Narayanamurthy said. But setting your thermostat to a specific temperature and never changing it . While around 70 degrees is ideal, it's unwise to set your thermostat to one temperature and never change it. Lower temperatures may be more comfortable when sleeping at night and can help keep your bill down when you're away from your home, Narayanamurthy cautioned. The Energy Department says that even from their normal settings for 8 hours a day can save as much as 10% a year on homeowners' heating and cooling costs. And contrary to one prevailing misconception, your heating system doesn't work any harder to warm your house back up after you lower the heat for a set time. Narayanamurthy said he usually sets his at 64 degrees if he leaves his home for an extended period of time, though everyone's comfort levels may be different. “You don’t want your heater turning on all the time when no one’s at home,” he said. Penny-pinchers may be tempted to set their thermostat at bracing levels and survive the winter by bundling up in layers or piling on blankets. While you'd have to set your home at a pretty low temperature for it to become a health risk, Narayanamurthy warns against going below 60 degrees. “You have to keep it really low to really get into a health concern," he said. "What you want to do is keep it at a reasonable temperature that’s not chilly.” The World Health Organization keeping indoor temperatures between 64 and 75 degrees for healthy people. But for those who are very young, elderly, or who have health problems, the minimum temperature shouldn't dip below 68 degrees, the organization says. Many homeowners may be tempted to rely on fireplaces, space heaters, electric blankets and wood-burning stoves to keep warm in the winter. , these types of secondary heating sources can help to slash costs since they offer heating to a more targeted area of your home at a fraction of the cost of cranking up the thermostat. But many of these options come with their own safety risks and similarly require routine maintenance, care and even replacement. Once a fire hazard, modern electric space heaters are much safer than they used to be with built-in safety features that turn the heaters off if they tip over, overheat, or have been left turned on for too long. Experts offer a variety of other tips that, altogether, could cut down on your bills and ensure your heating unit is working at maximum efficiency. A heating system saves money. That means the pricey cost of paying for a professional to come to your home and (anywhere from $150 to $500, Consumer Reports estimates) can pay off in the long run. Because many can connect to smartphones via mobile apps, smart thermostats provide the option for homeowners to program their thermostats while they're away from home or even set a schedule. For that reason, the average Energy Star-certified smart thermostat can save about 8% of a homeowner's annual heating and cooling bills, . : through the Department of Energy may help pay for energy-efficient products and replace heating systems that are 15 years old or older. Funding is available for all kinds of other upgrades as well, from doors to windows, and to insulation. More information is available at .

The Swiss city is expected to finance next year's song contest, despite skepticism from conservatives. The Alpine country will host the event after Swiss artist Nemo won Eurovision this year with "The Code." Voters in the northwestern Swiss city of Basel backed nearly $40 million (€38 million) in public funding on Sunday to host the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest . Preliminary results from Sunday's referendum show that 66.4% of voters in the city supported using taxpayer money for the event. Eurovision funding ensures full spectacle With the funding approved, the annual TV spectacle will proceed with its full traditional flair. Had the money not been granted, Eurovision 2025 would have been scaled back to only the main show, without any public events beyond the main show. The money will be put into programs accompanying the main event, and finance accommodation and expanded public transportation for attendees, among other initiatives. Eurovision is an opportunity for Basel, the home of pharma giants Novartis and Roche, to showcase its cultural attractions such as art museums. Based on the last two contests in Liverpool and Malmo, Basel hopes to make about 60 million Swiss francs (€64 million, $67 million) from the event. Swiss conservatives against funding say ESC promotes propaganda If the money were rejected, the Eurovision side-events in Basel would have been axed. Public funding for Eurovision 2025 was put to a referendum after the national-conservative Federal Democratic Union of Switzerland (EDU) had gathered enough signatures. The minor political party, which promotes Biblical values, has criticized taxpayer money for an event which it sees as promoting antisemitism and occultism. Some voters expressed concerns about traffic disruptions and the financial burden on taxpayers in general. Switzerland will host next year's Eurovision after Swiss singer-rapper Nemo won the 2024 event with the song "The Code." Nemo was the first non-binary artist in history to win the award. Swiss non-binary singer wins 2024 Eurovision Song Contest To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video wd/lo (AFP, dpa)Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation opens new STEM center at Tinicum school featuring drones and free technology

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NoneIn the latest edition of the Power On newsletter , Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman laid out a couple updates on Apple’s developments on health features for AirPods . We’ve heard reports on this matter in the past, but this provides a little more insight. According to the newsletter, Apple is working on a wide variety of health features, including a heart-rate monitor, a temperature sensor, and new sensors that’ll track “a slew of physiological measures.” Apple’s primarily focused on developing the heart rate sensor at the moment. In internal testing, Apple is noticing more accurate heart-rate info off of the Apple Watch , but Gurman reports that AirPods aren’t too far off. We don’t have details on the other health features, nor a precise timeline, though Gurman says we’ll see it roll out “over the coming years.” The features may debut in AirPods Pro 3. Apple is also working on cameras for AirPods. This project was previously cancelled, but got revived with Apple’s sudden interest in developing products for the era of AI. Gurman notes that this is a priority project for both AI teams and AirPods teams, but it’s still a couple years away: In fact, it’s now seen as a priority for the teams within Apple’s AI and AirPods hardware development groups. That said, I wouldn’t expect the technology to hit the market for a couple more years — assuming it doesn’t get canceled again. Apple released a new firmware update for AirPods Pro 2 earlier this year, enabling hearing health features and the ability to use AirPods as an FDA-certified hearing aid. With the release of these features, it’s obvious that Apple is moving in a more health-oriented direction, so introducing AirPods health features for users without an Apple Watch is a probable move. Follow Michael: X/Twitter , Bluesky , Instagram

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Empowered Funds LLC grew its position in NL Industries, Inc. ( NYSE:NL – Free Report ) by 5.4% during the 3rd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 155,550 shares of the basic materials company’s stock after purchasing an additional 7,906 shares during the period. Empowered Funds LLC owned about 0.32% of NL Industries worth $1,156,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in NL. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP lifted its position in NL Industries by 1.2% during the 2nd quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 1,964,169 shares of the basic materials company’s stock worth $11,844,000 after buying an additional 23,574 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its position in NL Industries by 1.3% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 356,510 shares of the basic materials company’s stock worth $2,613,000 after buying an additional 4,412 shares in the last quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC lifted its position in NL Industries by 59.9% during the 2nd quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 59,541 shares of the basic materials company’s stock worth $356,000 after buying an additional 22,293 shares in the last quarter. Heron Bay Capital Management lifted its position in NL Industries by 138.6% during the 2nd quarter. Heron Bay Capital Management now owns 34,766 shares of the basic materials company’s stock worth $210,000 after buying an additional 20,196 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Raymond James Trust N.A. acquired a new position in NL Industries during the 2nd quarter worth about $130,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 10.67% of the company’s stock. NL Industries Trading Up 0.2 % NL Industries stock opened at $8.05 on Friday. NL Industries, Inc. has a 1 year low of $4.46 and a 1 year high of $8.93. The company has a market cap of $393.24 million, a PE ratio of 6.76 and a beta of 0.51. The company’s 50-day moving average is $7.63 and its two-hundred day moving average is $6.98. NL Industries Cuts Dividend Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Separately, Barclays upped their price target on shares of NL Industries from $5.00 to $6.00 and gave the stock an “underweight” rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 25th. Get Our Latest Analysis on NL Industries About NL Industries ( Free Report ) NL Industries, Inc, through its subsidiary, CompX International Inc, operates in the component products industry in Europe, North America, the Asia Pacific, and internationally. The company manufactures and sells mechanical and electronic cabinet locks and other locking mechanisms, including disc tumbler locks; pin tumbler locking mechanisms under KeSet, System 64, TuBar, and Turbine brands; and electronic locks under CompX eLock and StealthLock brands for use in various applications, such as mailboxes, ignition systems, file cabinets, desk drawers, tool storage cabinets, high security medical cabinetry, integrated inventory and access control secured narcotics boxes, electronic circuit panels, storage compartments, gas station security, vending and cash containment machines. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding NL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for NL Industries, Inc. ( NYSE:NL – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for NL Industries Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for NL Industries and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

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MILWAUKEE (AP) — Erik Pratt had 20 points to help Milwaukee defeat North Central College 92-57 on Sunday. Pratt shot 5 for 9 (3 for 7 from 3-point range) and 7 of 8 from the free-throw line for the Panthers (9-4). Jamichael Stillwell scored 12 points and added 10 rebounds. Learic Davis had 12 points and went 6 of 9 from the field (0 for 3 from 3-point range). The Cardinals were led in scoring by Sean Molloy, who finished with eight points. James Bullock and Drew Gaston scored seven each. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .DEPARTMENT of Social Welfare and Development Secretary (DSWD) Rexlon Gatchalian informed the public on Saturday that the agency's key protective services programs, Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) and Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP), have helped a large number of poor Filipinos. Gatchalian made the remark in denying allegations that AICS and AKAP are being used for electoral purposes, including "vote buying." Register to read this story and more for free . Signing up for an account helps us improve your browsing experience. OR See our subscription options.Movies Best motion picture, comedy or musical “Wicked”; “Anora”; “Emilia Perez”; “Challengers”; “A Real Pain”; “The Substance” Best motion picture, drama “The Brutalist”; “A Complete Unknown,”; “Conclave”; “Dune: Part Two”; “Nickel Boys;” “September 5” Best performance by a male actor in a motion picture, musical or comedy Jesse Eisenberg, “A Real Pain”; Hugh Grant, “Heretic”; Gabriel LaBelle, “Saturday Night; Jesse Plemons, “Kinds of Kindness”’ Glen Powell, “Hitman”; Sebastian Stan, “A Different Man” Best performance by a female actor in a motion picture, musical or comedy Amy Adams, “Nightbitch”; Cynthia Erivo, “Wicked”; Karla Sofia Gascón, “Emilia Pérez”; Mikey Madison “Anora”; Demi Moore, “The Substance”; Zendaya, “Challengers” Best performance by a female male actor in a motion picture, drama Pamela Anderson, “The Last Showgirl′′; Angelina Jolie, ”Maria”; Nicole Kidman, “Babygirl”; Tilda Swinton, “The Room Next Door”; Fernanda Torres, “I’m Still Here”; Kate Winslet, “Lee” Best performance by a male actor in a motion picture, drama Adrien Brody, “The Brutalist”; Timothée Chalamet, “A Complete Unknown’; Colman Domingo, “Sing Sing”; Ralph Fiennes, “Conclave”; Sebastian Stan, “The Apprentice’’ Cinematic and box office achievement “Alien: Romulus”; Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”; Deadpool & Wolverine”; “Gladiator II”; “Inside Out 2”; “Twisters”; “Wicked”; “The Wild Robot” Best motion picture, non-English “All We Imagine As Light′′; ”Emilia Pérez”; “The Girl With the Needle”; “I’m Still Here”; “The Seed of the Sacred Fig”; “Vermiglio” Best animated film “Flow”; “Inside Out 2”; “Memoir of a Snail”; “Moana 2”; “Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl”; “The Wild Robot” Best performance by a female actor in a supporting role in any motion picture Selena Gomez, ”Emilia Pérez”; Ariana Grande, “Wicked”; Felicity Jones, “The Brutalist”; Margaret Qualley, “The Substance”; Isabella Rossellini, “Conclave”; Zoe Saldaña, ”Emilia Pérez” Best performance by a male actor in a supporting role in any motion picture Yura Borisov, “Anora”; Kieran Culkin, “A Real Pain”; Edward Norton, “A Complete Unknown”; Guy Pearce, “The Brutalist”; Jeremy Strong, ”The Apprentice”; Denzel Washington, “Gladiator II” Best director Jacques Audiard, “Emilia Pérez”; Sean Baker, ”Anora”; Edward Berger, “Conclave”; Brady Corbet, “The Brutalist”; Coralie Fargeat, “The Substance”; Payal Kapadia, “All We Imagine As Light” Best screenplay Jacques Audiard, “Emilia Pérez”; Sean Baker, ”Anora”; Brady Corbet, Mona Fastvold, “The Brutalist”; Jesse Eisenberg, “A Real Pain”; Coralie Fargeat, “The Substance”; Peter Straughan, “Conclave” Best original score Volker Bertelmann, “Conclave”; Daniel Blumberg, “The Brutalist”; Kris Bowers, “The Wild Robot”; Clement Ducol, Camille “Emilia Pérez”; Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross, “Challengers”; Hans Zimmer, “Dune: Part Two” Best original song “Beautiful That Way” from “The Last Showgirl” (music/lyrics by Andrew Wyatt, Miley Cyrus, Lykke Zachrisson); “Compress/Repress” from “Challengers’ (music/lyrics by Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross, Luca Guadagnino; “El Mal” from EL MAL” from “Emilia Pérez” (music/lyrics by Clément Ducol, Camille, Jacques Audiard; “Forbidden Road” from ”Better Man′′ (music/lyrics by Robbie Williams, Freddy Wexler, Sacha Skarbek); “Kiss the Sky” from “The Wild Robot′′ (music/lyrics by Delacey, Jordan K. Johnson, Stefan Johnson, Maren Morris, Michael Pollack, Ali Tamposi); ”Mi Camino′′ from “Emilia Pérez” (music/lyrics by Clément Ducol, Camille) Television Best television drama “Shogun”; “The Diplomat”; “Slow Horses”; “Mr. and Mrs. Smith”; “The Day of the Jackal”; “Squid Game” Best television series, comedy or musical “Abbott Elementary”; “The Bear; “Hacks”; “Nobody Wants This”; “Only Murders in the Building”; “The Gentlemen” Best performance by a male actor in a television series, drama Donald Glover, “Mr. and Mrs. Smith”; Jake Gyllenhaal, “Presumed Innocent”; Gary Oldman, “Slow Horses”; Eddie Redmayne, “The Day of the Jackal”; Hiroyuki Sanada, “Shogun”; Billy Bob Thornton, “Landman” Best performance by a female actor in a television series-drama Kathy Bates, “Matlock”; Emma D’Arcy, “House of the Dragon”; Maya Erskine, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith”; Keira Knightley, “Black Doves”; Keri Russell, “The Diplomat”; Anna Sawai, “Shogun” Best performance by a female actor in a television series-musical or comedy Kristen Bell, “Nobody Wants This”; Quinta Brunson, “Abbott Elementary”; Ayo Edebiri, “The Bear”; Selena Gomez, “Only Murders in the Building”; Kathryn Hahn, “Agatha All Along”; Jean Smart, “Hacks” Best performance by a male actor in a television series-musical or comedy Adam Brody, “Nobody Wants This”; Ted Danson, “A Man on the Inside”; Steve Martin, “Only Murders in the Building”; Jason Segel, “Shrinking”; Martin Short, “Only Murders in the Building”; Jeremy All White, “The Bear” Best television limited series, anthology series or motion picture made for television “Baby Reindeer”; Disclaimer"; “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story”; “The Penguin”; “Ripley”; “True Detective: Night Country” Best performance by a female actor in a limited series, anthology series or a motion picture made for television Cate Blanchett, “Disclaimer''; Jodie Foster, ”True Detective: Night Country"; Cristin Milioti, “The Penguin''; Sofia Vergara, ”Griselda"; Naomi Watts, “Feud: Capote vs. The Swans”; Kate Winslet, “The Regime” Best performance by a male actor in a limited series, anthology series or a motion picture made for television Colin Farrell, “The Penguin”; Richard Gadd, “Baby Reindeer”; Kevin Kline, “Disclaimer”; Cooper Koch, “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story”; Ewan McGregor, “A Gentleman in Moscow”; Andrew Scott, “Ripley” Best performance by a female actor in a supporting role on television Liza Colón-Zayas, “The Bear”; Hannah Einbinder, “Hacks”; Dakota Fanning, “Ripley”; Jessica Gunning, “Baby Reindeer”; Allison Janney, “The Diplomat”; Kali Reis, “True Detective: Night Country” Best performance by a male actor in a supporting role on television Tadanobu Asano, “Shogun''; Javier Bardem, “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story”; Harrison Ford, “Shrinking”; Jack Lowden “Slow Horses”; Diego Luna, “La Maquina”; Ebon Moss-Bachrach, “The Bear” Best performance in stand-up comedy on television Jamie Foxx, “Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was”; Nikki Glaser, “Nikki Glaser: Someday You'll Die”; Seth Meyers, “Seth Meyers: Dad Man Walking”; Adam Sandler, "Adam Sandler: Love You"; Ali Wong, “Ali Wong: Single Lady”; Ramy Youssef, “Ramy Youssef: More Feelings”

Deluxe ( NYSE:DLX – Get Free Report ) was downgraded by equities researchers at StockNews.com from a “strong-buy” rating to a “buy” rating in a research note issued to investors on Thursday. Deluxe Trading Up 1.3 % Shares of DLX opened at $23.24 on Thursday. Deluxe has a 1-year low of $17.60 and a 1-year high of $24.87. The company has a market capitalization of $1.03 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.74, a P/E/G ratio of 0.64 and a beta of 1.46. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.38, a current ratio of 0.92 and a quick ratio of 0.83. The firm’s 50 day simple moving average is $20.16 and its 200 day simple moving average is $21.14. Insider Buying and Selling In other news, CEO Barry C. Mccarthy purchased 2,820 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction on Tuesday, September 10th. The stock was purchased at an average price of $19.08 per share, with a total value of $53,805.60. Following the completion of the purchase, the chief executive officer now directly owns 178,670 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,409,023.60. This trade represents a 1.60 % increase in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link . 4.23% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Deluxe About Deluxe ( Get Free Report ) Deluxe Corporation provides technology-enabled solutions to enterprises, small businesses, and financial institutions in the United States, Canada, and Australia. It operates through Merchant Services, B2B Payments, Data Solutions, and Print segments. The Merchant Services offers credit and debit card authorization and payment systems, as well as processing services primarily to small and medium-sized retail and service businesses. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Deluxe Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Deluxe and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

The Importance of Genetic Testing in Modern Cannabis Seed BanksBig humiliation for Pakistan and China as US changes its missile technology law for India, now India and America...Modern cannabis seed banks play a pivotal role in the cultivation and distribution of cannabis. With the rise in demand for specific strains catering to medicinal and recreational needs, genetic testing has emerged as a game-changer in the cannabis industry. But what exactly is genetic testing, and why is it important? Genetic testing involves analyzing the DNA of cannabis plants to determine their traits, such as potency, flavor, aroma, resistance to pests, and growth patterns. By understanding these traits at a genetic level, seed banks can ensure better quality and consistency in their offerings. The Role of Genetics in Cannabis Cultivation Cannabis consumers often look for specific strains with particular effects, such as relaxation, energy, or pain relief. Genetic testing helps seed banks maintain consistency in these strains by verifying their genetic makeup. This ensures that consumers get the same experience every time they purchase a strain. Genetic testing allows seed banks to identify plants with natural resistance to pests and diseases. By cultivating these resilient strains, growers can reduce the need for chemical pesticides and fertilizers, making the cultivation process more sustainable. Why Genetic Testing is Crucial for Cannabis Seed Banks One of the most significant advantages of genetic testing is the precision it offers in breeding programs. Seed banks can crossbreed plants with desirable traits, such as high THC or CBD content, faster flowering times, or unique terpene profiles. This precision leads to the creation of new, high-quality strains. Occasionally, genetic mutations can occur in cannabis plants, leading to undesirable traits such as low yield or susceptibility to diseases. Genetic testing helps identify these mutations early, allowing the best seed banks to remove faulty plants from their breeding programs and maintain high-quality standards. Many regions have strict regulations regarding cannabis strains, especially concerning THC and CBD levels. Genetic testing ensures that seed banks comply with these regulations by accurately determining the chemical profiles of their strains. Benefits of Genetic Testing for Consumers Genetic testing empowers seed banks to develop strains tailored to specific needs, such as pain relief, anxiety reduction, or enhanced creativity. This customization ensures that consumers have access to the right strain for their requirements. Consumers deserve to know what they are purchasing. Genetic testing provides detailed information about a strain’s potency, cannabinoid content, and effects, improving transparency and safety. Strains with consistent genetics lead to predictable effects, ensuring that consumers have a reliable experience every time they use a product. How Genetic Testing Supports Cannabis Research Medical cannabis relies heavily on strains with specific cannabinoid and terpene profiles. Genetic testing facilitates the development of these strains, contributing to advancements in medical cannabis research and treatments. Terpenes and cannabinoids work together to create the “ entourage effect ,” which enhances the therapeutic potential of cannabis. Genetic testing helps researchers understand these interactions, leading to the development of more effective medicinal strains. Challenges in Implementing Genetic Testing One of the barriers to widespread adoption of genetic testing is its cost. Advanced equipment and skilled professionals are required, which can be expensive for smaller seed banks. Cannabis has a highly complex genetic structure, making testing and analysis a challenging process. Despite advancements, there is still much to learn about cannabis genetics. The Future of Cannabis Seed Banks with Genetic Testing As technology evolves, genetic testing is becoming more accessible and cost-effective. In the future, it is likely to become a standard practice in all cannabis seed banks. This will lead to: Conclusion Genetic testing is revolutionizing the cannabis industry, particularly in the operations of modern seed banks. By ensuring strain consistency, improving plant health, and supporting legal compliance, genetic testing enhances the quality and reliability of cannabis products. For consumers, it offers tailored strains, improved safety, and a better overall experience. While challenges such as cost and complexity remain, the future of genetic testing in cannabis seed banks looks promising. It not only benefits the industry but also paves the way for groundbreaking research and sustainable cultivation practices.Newcastle Herald brings you live updates from breaking news incidents, traffic and travel from across Newcastle, the Hunter Region and beyond. Stay up-to-date with what's going on as the day progresses. Login or signup to continue reading What's making news today? Newcastle's favourite son Alex McKinnon is set to graduate from university today, there has been a spike in no-grounds eviction inquiries ahead of the ban and No.1 Sportsground plans given tick of approval but when will it be ready? Note: The blog may take a moment to load. The blog is free to access for all Newcastle Herald readers, but some article links may only be accessible exclusively to our subscribers. If you have any feedback about the blog please email news@newcastleherald.com.au . You can also send in news tips, diary dates and anything you think the news team needs to know. Or you can join the conversation in the comment section below, just scroll down to start discussing today's news. DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update. WEEKDAYS Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. WEEKLY The latest news, results & expert analysis. WEEKDAYS Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. WEEKLY Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. WEEKLY Love footy? We've got all the action covered. WEEKLY Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. WEEKLY Get the latest property and development news here. WEEKLY Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. WEEKDAYS Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. WEEKLY Follow the Newcastle Knights in the NRL? Don't miss your weekly Knights update. TWICE WEEKLY Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. WEEKLY Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. TWICE WEEKLY Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. AS IT HAPPENS Be the first to know when news breaks. DAILY Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! DAILY Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily!

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Djokovic won five to Murray’s two but was the opponent for the Scot’s crowning achievement at Wimbledon in 2013. Andy Murray is to take over as coach for his old rival Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open. Here, the PA news agency looks at the seven Grand Slam finals contested by the pair. Australian Open 2011 – Djokovic Murray turned in a poor performance in Melbourne, failing at the third attempt to win a set in a Grand Slam final as Djokovic broke serve seven times and hit six aces to claim a comprehensive win 6-4 6-2 6-3. “You had an unbelievable tournament and deserved to win,” the Scot said in reference to his opponent. “I look forward to playing against you in the future.” US Open 2012 – Murray It took five sets for Murray to claim his first Grand Slam title, becoming the first British man to achieve the feat since Fred Perry in 1936. The final clocked in at four hours and 54 minutes as Murray prevailed 7-6 (10) 7-5 2-6 3-6 6-2 to end a wait of 287 tournaments in British male tennis for a victory. “I want to congratulate Andy on his first grand slam, he thoroughly deserves it,” said Djokovic. “I really tried my best. I gave it my all. It was a tremendous match.” Australian Open 2013 – Djokovic Murray was dogged by injury in Melbourne with a heavily strapped right foot and a tight hamstring as Djokovic fought back from a set down to land a third consecutive Australian Open title, 6-7 (2) 7-6 (3) 6-3 6-2. “His record here is incredible,” said Murray. ”Very few people have managed to do what he has done, a deserved champion.” Wimbledon 2013 – Murray Murray ended a 77-year wait for a British men’s victory at Wimbledon by defeating his old foe 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 in SW19, serving emphatically with nine aces and only two double faults to throw off the weight of history. The Scot had been 4-1 down in the second set as the match threatened to slip away from him and with it the chance to cement his place in tennis folklore, but having wasted three championship points he finally sealed the deal when Djokovic drove into the net with his final shot. Australian Open 2015 – Djokovic A post shared by Novak Djokovic (@djokernole) Djokovic triumphed 7-6 (5) 6-7 (4) 6-3 6-0 and after the 24 matches and five grand slam finals the pair had played against each other across nine years, the Serb had established a 16-8 overall lead and 3-2 in slam finals. “Success is being happy,” said Murray. “It’s not about winning every single tournament you play, because that isn’t possible.” Australian Open 2016 – Djokovic The Serb landed a fourth win over Murray in Australian Open finals and his 11th in 12 matches to land his 11th major title, whilst the Scot made it five consecutive final losses in Melbourne, a new record in the Open era. “I feel like I’ve been here before,” said Murray after a 6-1 7-5 7-6 (3) loss. “Congratulations Novak, six Australian Opens, an incredible feat, and incredible consistency the last year.” French Open 2016 – Djokovic This was Murray’s first final at Roland Garros but it brought a familiar conclusion as Djokovic triumphed against him for the fifth time in seven Grand Slam finals. The 3-6 6-1 6-2 6-4 success was a first win for the Serb in Paris and saw him hold all four slams simultaneously. Murray went on to win Wimbledon the following month and was voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year but, addressing Djokovic in Paris, said: “This is his day today. What he’s achieved the last 12 months is phenomenal, winning all four of the grand slams in one year is an amazing achievement.”None

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Heidi Klum: ‘I have a younger husband. Sex is good – very good’

baccarat tricks In a surprising turn of events, the China Golden Dragon Index experienced a remarkable surge of over 8% in the latest trading session. This unexpected uptick has sent shockwaves through the investment community, prompting a newfound sense of optimism among foreign investors regarding Chinese assets.With 3:56 left in last Sunday’s game against the 49ers, the late-afternoon sun falling on Levi’s Stadium seemed a fitting metaphor for the Seahawks’ season. Seattle had just turned the ball over on downs when Zach Charbonnet’s fourth-and-one plunge at the 49ers' 37-yard line went nowhere. That followed a Geno Smith sneak on a third-and-one that was also ruled — much to the disagreement of many on the Seahawks sideline — to have gone nowhere. A couple 49ers first downs and the game would be over. Seattle’s season might have gone with it. Instead, a third-down stop and as efficient of a game-winning drive led by Smith as you’ll ever see, and the light returned. That sequence of events pulled Seattle from being two.games back of two other teams in the NFC West — and essentially three back of the 49ers — to tied with the Rams and 49ers at 5-5 and just a game behind 6-4 Arizona. “We were trying to turn our season around," Smith said afterward. Now the task: to take proper advantage of that statistically unlikely turn of events. A script writer could hardly have crafted the story better to now have Arizona coming to Seattle for a 1:25 p.m. game on Sunday at Lumen Field that could move the Seahawks back into first place in the NFC West. As the Seahawks and Cardinals are kicking off, the 49ers will do the same at Lambeau Field against the Green Bay Packers. But the 49ers will do so without quarterback Brock Purdy and star pass rusher Nick Bosa, each ruled out due to injury. The losses of those two players propelled the betting line to flip from San Francisco favored by 2.5 when it opened to the Packers favored by as much as six on Saturday afternoon — the first time the 49ers have been an underdog since the 2022 season. Then in the night game, the Rams host an Eagles team that has won six in a row and is listed as a three-point favorite. So, to make it simple, a win by Seattle and losses by the 49ers and Rams and the Seahawks will be in first place in the NFC West by the end of the day, holding the tiebreaker for the moment on Arizona. What a swing that final 3 minutes and 56 seconds may have made in Seattle’s season, and in creating an NFC West race that appears as wide open this late in the season as it’s been in years. Coach Mike Macdonald this week didn’t shy away from stating how pivotal each week going forward figures to be with each team in the division now having had their bye and seven games remaining. “Put it this way, look, we've earned the opportunity to be fighting for the lead in the division going into the home stretch," Macdonald said. “So, that's the way we're treating it. It's very much like a playoff mindset for us at this point. (We) can't afford to drop games. You want to have the right to play for these really important games in December and January. You've got to be able to execute and put yourself in that situation. It's basically a December football game." Smith spoke similarly. “Anybody can go get this division the last seven games of the season," he said. “So, really it's going feel like playoff games, every single one. The division games are going to feel like you won two games because they're going to matter that much." Sunday’s game may loom even more critical for Seattle and Arizona since the two teams play again in Glendale on Dec. 8. Given that the Cardinals already also have wins over the Rams and 49ers, a win Sunday and possibly moving two games in front of everyone else in the division would put the Cardinals in a pretty firm driver’s seat. But a Seattle win, and the Seahawks may go to Arizona in two weeks with a chance to take control of the division, especially if Seattle can beat a downtrodden Jets team in New York on Dec. 1. Macdonald and Smith speaking candidly of the stakes at hand Sunday, though, stood in contrast to the Cardinals’ approach this week. “I’m not really looking at it that way," Arizona quarterback Kyler Murray said this week when asked how it feels to play a late-November game with so much on the line. “I’m just taking it one game at a time. I know that the guys are as well, so I think that's the message that we're preaching. No game's bigger than the other. The one that we've got right now is the biggest one. We have to win it." On paper, though, the game projects as the most important for Arizona since earning its last playoff spot following the 2021 season. Arizona has won four in a row to move into first — matching its win total for all of last season when the Cardinals went 4-13 in the first season for coach Jonathan Gannon and with Murray held to eight games while recovering from an ACL injury suffered on Dec. 12, 2022. The Cardinals winning only eight games in the 2022 and 2023 seasons combined, the coaching inexperience of Gannon and some uncertainty about whether Murray could reclaim his pre-injury form had most preseason prognosticators picking Arizona last in the NFC West. But the return of Murray full-time, another good season from veteran running back James Conner and the addition of first-round pick receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. has led to an improved offense. And the Arizona defense finally seems to be taking on the personality of Gannon, who got the job after serving as the defensive coordinator for the Eagles team that got to the Super Bowl following the 2022 season, particularly in keeping teams out of the end zone; the Cardinals are ninth in the NFL in red-zone defense, allowing TDs on just 17 of 35 drives inside the 20. But the Seahawks finally beating the 49ers for the first time since 2021 a week ago, and doing so after a chaotic week that included the surprising retirement of center Connor Williams, has them feeling like anything is possible. Step one, though, is winning Sunday and snapping a four-game home losing streak. “These games are going to be so electric," Smith said. “I can't wait to be in the stadium on Sunday. It's going to be so fun. We're looking forward to the fans being there and just going crazy." The Seahawks made an expected move Saturday, activating safety Rayshawn Jenkins off Injured Reserve, filling an opening Seattle had on its 53-man roster. Macdonald said Friday that Jenkins — who had been sidelined with a hand injury — is expected to play against the Cardinals. Seattle also elevated tight end Tyler Mabry and linebacker Patrick O’Connell off the practice squad for Sunday’s game. Mabry adds depth at the tight end spot with Brady Russell (foot) ruled out and Noah Fant (going) questionable. O’Connell, a second-year player from Montana, played 10 snaps on special teams last week against the 49ers and will likely fill a similar role against the Cardinals. This is the third elevation for O’Connell, the most that is allowed.

One of the key factors driving the resurgence of the real estate market is the relaxation of property purchase restrictions. In response to the economic downturn caused by the global pandemic, many governments have eased regulations on property transactions to encourage buying and selling activities. This has led to an increase in demand for residential and commercial properties, thereby boosting sales and prices.In the latest round of English Premier League matches, Liverpool maintained their position at the top of the table despite their match being postponed. The Reds currently sit four points clear of their nearest rivals, putting them in a strong position as the season progresses.

From a broader perspective, the shift from water fees to water tax underscores the importance of setting clear water conservation goals and objectives. By imposing water taxes, authorities aim to not only generate revenue but also to encourage responsible water usage and conservation. This change serves as a catalyst for promoting water-saving behaviors and incentivizing individuals and businesses to reduce their water consumption.With 3:56 left in last Sunday’s game against the 49ers, the late-afternoon sun falling on Levi’s Stadium seemed a fitting metaphor for the Seahawks’ season. Seattle had just turned the ball over on downs when Zach Charbonnet’s fourth-and-one plunge at the 49ers' 37-yard line went nowhere. That followed a Geno Smith sneak on a third-and-one that was also ruled — much to the disagreement of many on the Seahawks sideline — to have gone nowhere. A couple 49ers first downs and the game would be over. Seattle’s season might have gone with it. Instead, a third-down stop and as efficient of a game-winning drive led by Smith as you’ll ever see, and the light returned. That sequence of events pulled Seattle from being two games back of two other teams in the NFC West — and essentially three back of the 49ers — to tied with the Rams and 49ers at 5-5 and just a game behind 6-4 Arizona. “We were trying to turn our season around," Smith said afterward. Now the task: to take proper advantage of that statistically unlikely turn of events. A script writer could hardly have crafted the story better to now have Arizona coming to Seattle for a 1:25 p.m. game on Sunday at Lumen Field that could move the Seahawks back into first place in the NFC West. As the Seahawks and Cardinals are kicking off, the 49ers will do the same at Lambeau Field against the Green Bay Packers. But the 49ers will do so without quarterback Brock Purdy and star pass rusher Nick Bosa, each ruled out due to injury. The losses of those two players propelled the betting line to flip from San Francisco favored by 2.5 when it opened to the Packers favored by as much as six on Saturday afternoon — the first time the 49ers have been an underdog since the 2022 season. Then in the night game, the Rams host an Eagles team that has won six in a row and is listed as a three-point favorite. So, to make it simple, a win by Seattle and losses by the 49ers and Rams and the Seahawks will be in first place in the NFC West by the end of the day, holding the tiebreaker for the moment on Arizona. What a swing that final 3 minutes and 56 seconds may have made in Seattle’s season, and in creating an NFC West race that appears as wide open this late in the season as it’s been in years. Coach Mike Macdonald this week didn’t shy away from stating how pivotal each week going forward figures to be with each team in the division now having had their bye and seven games remaining. “Put it this way, look, we've earned the opportunity to be fighting for the lead in the division going into the homestretch," Macdonald said. “So, that's the way we're treating it. It's very much like a playoff mindset for us at this point. (We) can't afford to drop games. You want to have the right to play for these really important games in December and January. You've got to be able to execute and put yourself in that situation. It's basically a December football game." Smith spoke similarly. “Anybody can go get this division the last seven games of the season," he said. “So, really it's going feel like playoff games, every single one. The division games are going to feel like you won two games because they're going to matter that much." Sunday’s game may loom even more critical for Seattle and Arizona since the two teams play again in Glendale on Dec. 8. Given that the Cardinals already also have wins over the Rams and 49ers, a win Sunday and possibly moving two games in front of everyone else in the division would put the Cardinals in a pretty firm driver’s seat. But a Seattle win, and the Seahawks may go to Arizona in two weeks with a chance to take control of the division, especially if Seattle can beat a downtrodden Jets team in New York on Dec. 1. Macdonald and Smith speaking candidly of the stakes at hand Sunday, though, stood in contrast to the Cardinals’ approach this week. “I’m not really looking at it that way," Arizona quarterback Kyler Murray said this week when asked how it feels to play a late-November game with so much on the line. “I’m just taking it one game at a time. I know that the guys are as well, so I think that's the message that we're preaching. No game's bigger than the other. The one that we've got right now is the biggest one. We have to win it." On paper, though, the game projects as the most important for Arizona since earning its last playoff spot following the 2021 season. Arizona has won four in a row to move into first — matching its win total for all of last season when the Cardinals went 4-13 in the first season for coach Jonathan Gannon and with Murray held to eight games while recovering from an ACL injury suffered on Dec. 12, 2022. The Cardinals winning only eight games in the 2022 and 2023 seasons combined, the coaching inexperience of Gannon and some uncertainty about whether Murray could reclaim his pre-injury form had most preseason prognosticators picking Arizona last in the NFC West. But the return of Murray full-time, another good season from veteran running back James Conner and the addition of first-round pick receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. has led to an improved offense. And the Arizona defense finally seems to be taking on the personality of Gannon, who got the job after serving as the defensive coordinator for the Eagles team that got to the Super Bowl following the 2022 season, particularly in keeping teams out of the end zone; the Cardinals are ninth in the NFL in red-zone defense, allowing TDs on just 17 of 35 drives inside the 20. But the Seahawks finally beating the 49ers for the first time since 2021 a week ago, and doing so after a chaotic week that included the surprising retirement of center Connor Williams, has them feeling like anything is possible. Step one, though, is winning Sunday and snapping a four-game home losing streak. “These games are going to be so electric," Smith said. “I can't wait to be in the stadium on Sunday. It's going to be so fun. We're looking forward to the fans being there and just going crazy." Seahawks activate Jenkins, elevate two others The Seahawks made an expected move Saturday, activating safety Rayshawn Jenkins off injured reserve, filling an opening Seattle had on its 53-man roster. Macdonald said Friday that Jenkins — who had been sidelined with a hand injury — is expected to play against the Cardinals. Seattle also elevated tight end Tyler Mabry and linebacker Patrick O’Connell off the practice squad for Sunday’s game. Mabry adds depth at the tight end spot with Brady Russell (foot) ruled out and Noah Fant (going) questionable. O’Connell, a second-year player from Montana, played 10 snaps on special teams last week against the 49ers and will likely fill a similar role against the Cardinals. This is the third elevation for O’Connell, the most that is allowed.

Having officiated numerous high-profile matches in the past, Taylor is no stranger to the pressure and scrutiny that comes with refereeing a game of this magnitude. His ability to remain calm and composed under intense pressure, while maintaining a firm grip on proceedings, will be crucial in ensuring that the match is played in a fair and competitive manner.South Carolina has won six straight games, and one of the catalysts has been the improved free-throw shooting of Nick Pringle. When South Carolina (9-3) faces Presbyterian (7-7) in the final nonconference game for both teams on Monday in Columbia, S.C., the Gamecocks won't have to hold their breath when Pringle toes the line. During South Carolina's surge, which includes wins over three power conference teams, Pringle has made 26 of 30 (86.7 percent) free-throw attempts. It's a remarkable improvement from his 51.7 percent career success rate entering the season. Last month, in his South Carolina debut after transferring from Alabama, Pringle's foul shooting woes continued as he shot 3-for-8 in stunning 74-71 upset at the hands of the visiting North Florida. But video work with coach Lamont Paris convinced Pringle that he needed to quicken his routine and tweak his set point, which is where a player's eyes focus on the rim. "How long it was taking him to release the ball once he started his free throw process was really long, really, really long," Paris said. "So he shortened it." In a 74-48 win over Radford on Dec. 22, Pringle made all 10 of his free throws. His work at the line is no small matter, as he has taken the second-most free throws on the team (61). Pringle averages 10.3 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, combining with Collin Murray-Boyles (16.2 points, 9.3 rebounds) to give the Gamecocks a formidable duo inside. Presbyterian enters after suffering its first home loss this season, 86-81 in overtime to Manhattan on Dec. 21. It was a frustrating defeat after the Blue Hose led by 19 points in the first half. There was a positive, however, as Carl Parrish delivered 23 points and nine rebounds, both career highs. It was a performance that sixth-year coach Quinton Ferrell has been awaiting. "Seeing him play like that offensively is not a shock to me because that's really what he's capable of," Ferrell said. "He's a big-time offensive player." Parrish combines in the backcourt with the Blue Hose's top two threats: Kory Mincy, who averages 14.9 points and 4.6 assists per game, and Kobe Stewart, who scores at a 14.4 ppg clip. Located just 60 miles apart, South Carolina and Presbyterian (Clinton, S.C.) have a long history, with their first game coming nearly 108 years ago. The Gamecocks lead the series 33-8. --Field Level Media

For young men reaching the age of 18, the process of registering for the military draft is a straightforward but important task. Registration can be completed online through the official government website or in person at designated registration centers. The information required typically includes personal details such as name, date of birth, address, and contact information. It is important for individuals to provide accurate and up-to-date information to ensure that they are properly registered in the system.By LOLITA C. BALDOR and MATTHEW LEE WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States is expected to announce that it will send $1.25 billion in military assistance to Ukraine, U.S. officials said Friday, as the Biden administration pushes to get as much aid to Kyiv as possible before leaving office on Jan. 20. The large package of aid includes a significant amount of munitions, including for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems and the HAWK air defense system. It also will provide Stinger missiles and 155 mm- and 105 mm artillery rounds, officials said. The officials, who said they expect the announcement to be made on Monday, spoke on condition of anonymity to provide details not yet made public. The new aid comes as Russia has launched a barrage of attacks against Ukraine’s power facilities in recent days, although Ukraine has said it intercepted a significant number of the missiles and drones. Russian and Ukrainian forces are also still in a bitter battle around the Russian border region of Kursk, where Moscow has sent thousands of North Korean troops to help reclaim territory taken by Ukraine. Earlier this month, senior defense officials acknowledged that that the Defense Department may not be able to send all of the remaining $5.6 billion in Pentagon weapons and equipment stocks passed by Congress for Ukraine before President-elect Donald Trump is sworn in. Related Articles National News | Bird flu virus likely mutated within a Louisiana patient, CDC says National News | A 9th telecoms firm has been hit by a massive Chinese espionage campaign, the White House says National News | Court rules Georgia lawmakers can subpoena Fani Willis for information related to her Trump case National News | US homelessness up 18% as affordable housing remains out of reach for many people National News | Most Americans blame insurance profits and denials alongside the killer in UHC CEO death, poll finds Trump has talked about getting some type of negotiated settlement between Ukraine and Russia, and spoken about his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin . Many U.S. and European leaders are concerned that it might result in a poor deal for Ukraine and they worry that he won’t provide Ukraine with all the weapons funding approved by Congress. The aid in the new package is in presidential drawdown authority, which allows the Pentagon to take weapons off the shelves and send them quickly to Ukraine. This latest assistance would reduce the remaining amount to about $4.35 billion. Officials have said they hope that an influx of aid will help strengthen Ukraine’s hand, should Zelenskyy decide it’s time to negotiate. One senior defense official said that while the U.S. will continue to provide weapons to Ukraine until Jan. 20, there may well be funds remaining that will be available for the incoming Trump administration to spend. According to the Pentagon, there is also about $1.2 billion remaining in longer-term funding through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which is used to pay for weapons contracts that would not be delivered for a year or more. Officials have said the administration anticipates releasing all of that money before the end of the calendar year. If the new package is included, the U.S. has provided more than $64 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since Russia invaded in February 2022.

Thank you for your attention and support.One of the key driving forces behind the booming real estate market in Guizhou is the government's efforts to promote urban development and improve living standards. Several new policies, such as subsidies for first-time homebuyers, tax incentives for property developers, and streamlined approval processes for real estate projects, have been introduced to stimulate demand and investment in the housing market.

At the summit of the table, we have [Team A] leading the pack with [X] points. The title holders have been in scintillating form, showcasing their trademark attacking prowess and defensive solidity. However, hot on their heels are [Team B] and [Team C], both with [X] points. These teams have been relentless in their pursuit of glory, consistently picking up vital wins and pushing the leaders all the way.As he delved deeper into his search for his biological family, the protagonist uncovered startling revelations about his past, including the heart-wrenching truth that he had been kidnapped not once, but twice more after his initial abduction as a child. Each time, he had managed to break free, a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering determination.

Michael Daniel has developed an app aimed at bridging the communication gap for people with . or signup to continue reading It's called the NeuroTranslator, and it quickly achieved viral status when it was launched online in November. The 34-year-old father of three from Newcastle only recently discovered that he was autistic. The diagnosis was life-changing. "My journey toward understanding that I was autistic started with my eldest daughter. As she grew into toddlerhood, I noticed certain unique traits and behaviours that felt extremely familiar - things I distinctly remembered doing myself as a child," he explains. "About a year ago, a family friend gently suggested that my daughter might be autistic. I didn't think too much about it at the time, but one day, while visiting the local library, I came across by Jenara Nerenberg. I picked it up, thinking it might offer some helpful parenting insights for my wife and I. "That night, after everyone was asleep, I stayed up reading. As I turned the pages, I felt a wave of emotion wash over me. Every story, every experience described, resonated so deeply. "I got goosebumps all over my body as it felt like the pieces of my life all fell into place. In that quiet moment by myself, I realised - I'm autistic. It was a life-changing realisation that helped me better understand myself." Looking back at his life through a different lens explained so much. "Being autistic means having a brain that's wired differently, so it has shaped literally every decision I've made throughout my life, often in ways I didn't fully understand," Daniel says. "Growing up, I always sensed that I thought differently, but society isn't always accepting of those who don't fit the norm. In response, I subconsciously developed what's known as a 'mask' - adopting behaviours that felt more socially acceptable to blend in and gain acceptance. "This experience is common among autistic individuals, especially those who don't fit the narrow, stereotypical portrayals often seen in media (think Sheldon Cooper from ). But autism is highly individual." He quotes a saying - "If you've met one autistic person, you've met one autistic person" - which he says explains how autistic traits vary, sometimes dramatically, from person to person. "After discovering that I was autistic, it felt like the process of unmasking kicked in automatically. I was eager to find the 'real me'," Daniel says. "What I didn't expect was that my brain would seemingly shut off in some areas, and I'd lose skills that had always felt second nature. It was as if the mask I had worn for years to navigate life had come off - but what lay beneath felt unfamiliar, even to me." It was a tumultuous time for the Daniel family. "I didn't recognise myself, and neither did my wife. We found ourselves speaking completely different languages, trapped in a cycle of constant misunderstandings," he says. "I'd say something with a completely different intention to how it was interpreted. Every misunderstanding seemed to trigger more emotional pain, creating a rift in our marriage that at times felt impossible to bridge. "It was that pain that drove me to create my own AI assistant. I needed something that could get me out of my own head and help me process interactions I didn't fully understand, especially in emotionally charged situations. "The AI became a lifeline, helping me break down and work through what would've taken me days to process on my own." An incident at his workplace was the final straw. In a Zoom meeting, his employer told him that the company no longer needed a full-time data analyst and that he was being "let go". "I completely misread the situation," Daniel says. "I didn't pick up on the seriousness in his facial expressions and, thinking he was joking, I burst out laughing. A moment later, HR joined the call, and that's when it hit me. It wasn't a joke. It was one of the most awkward moments of my life. "After the meeting, still reeling, I decided to release the AI tool I'd built for myself publicly for free. I thought, 'I can't be the only one going through this and if it helps even two or three people like me, that would be something good to come out of it'. "I spent the rest of the day building a simple website and posted about it on Reddit before going to bed. The next morning, I woke up to my phone blowing up with notifications. It had gone viral on Reddit and TikTok overnight, racking up hundreds of thousands of views." The app's web version had been viewed more than 400,000 times on TikTok and Reddit in the first 24 hours. There was a market for the app, but the cost was prohibitive. It was going to set Daniel back $300 a day to keep the app up and running, so he introduced "a small paywall to help cover the costs, and created a $2 per month financial hardship option for anyone struggling", while offering a slightly higher tier for people who wanted to support him as "a now-unemployed solopreneur". What started as a personal project had evolved into something much bigger. People started asking him if NeuroTranslator could be developed into a mobile app, and if it could be expanded to cover other neurotypes, such as ADHD. "I wanted NeuroTranslator to be more than just a translator for autistic communication - I wanted it to bridge communication gaps for a range of neurotypes," Daniel says. "The feedback I received from thousands of users inspired me to create something truly inclusive and scalable. "At first, I explored hiring developers to build a mobile app, but the quotes I received were far beyond what I could afford - especially given that I'd just lost my job. So, I decided to take a leap and teach myself how to build the app from scratch, with a little help from AI-powered tools along the way. "It's estimated that one in five people are neurodivergent, yet the world often isn't built for us. NeuroTranslator is my attempt to change that - to offer a way for neurodivergent and neurotypical people to connect in ways they may never have thought possible." The app works, he says, by acting as a bridge between different communication styles. Users type in a scenario and the app translates it in a way that's easy for the user to understand, based on their particular neurotype. "Anyone who isn't neurotypical will tell you that communicating can sometimes feel like speaking an entirely different language," he says. "Take something as seemingly simple as 'How are you?'. For a neurotypical person, it's often just a polite greeting, not meant to be answered in detail. For an autistic person, however, it can be interpreted as a literal question requiring an honest and thorough response. "The NeuroTranslator breaks down hidden meanings, implied context and common social cues that might not be obvious to everyone. "By making subtle adjustments in how we communicate, we can reduce misunderstandings and create more meaningful connections. That's what bridging the gap really means to me - fostering understanding by translating intent, not just words, and embracing our differences." Advertisement Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date. We care about the protection of your data. Read our . Advertisement

State, national officials remember Jimmy CarterThe authorities swiftly launched an investigation into these tragic events, seeking to uncover the truth behind the senseless violence that claimed the boy's life and the horrifying accident that followed. Questions swirled in the air, demanding answers that could bring closure to the grieving community and justice to the innocent soul that was lost.None

As residents of Zhengzhou and visitors to the city await further updates on the situation, it is imperative that everyone remains vigilant and cautious when engaging in activities that involve shared spaces and amenities. The health and safety of the public should always be a top priority, and efforts must be made to ensure that similar incidents are prevented in the future.Atalanta, the underdog of Italian football, has been making waves in Serie A with their exhilarating style of play and impressive results. With their outstanding performance in recent seasons, the Bergamo-based club has proven that they are a force to be reckoned with in the Italian football scene. However, in order to challenge for the Serie A title, Atalanta must maintain their highest level of performance, with star striker Duván Zapata leading the charge.

In conclusion, Sergio Ramos's dedication to enhancing his offensive capabilities and embracing a more self-assured approach in front of goal is a testament to his commitment to personal growth and excellence. By honing his shooting skills and striving to be more decisive in key moments, Ramos is setting himself up to become an even more complete player and a formidable force on the field for Real Madrid. As he continues to push himself and evolve his game, the prospect of witnessing Ramos deliver crucial goals from long range is an exciting development that is sure to captivate fans and teammates alike.

I was deeply disturbed and disheartened upon witnessing university students at Federal University Dutsin-Ma resorting to hitching rides on tankers to get to school. This was may be due to a severe shortage of buses to transport them or financial constraints to afford paying transportation fee to the newly opened campus, which is located far from the main campus and town of Dutsin-Ma. The recent pictures circulating on social media of tankers carrying students to school at the new campus are so fearful,that necessitate immediate attention and action from the government and the management of the institution. Though I have seen a video clips of the of the Federal university Dutsin-Ma Dr. Muhammad Gazalli Garba in an interview stating that the picture is not true, I doubt what he said because the picture has been circulated by the students of the university on their social media platforms.However, whether the picture is true or not, it’s a matter of saving lives that are under serious risk!!! We all witnessed, the lives lost in the Majia area of Jigawa State, and other reports have also confirmed the incidents that occurred in so many states that led the lost of lives and huge amount of property due the frequent tanker exploitation in the country . This is only for the people who came to took fuel after Tanker exploitation or living close to the location where the tanker exploded, Sadly, still people are yet to learn a lesson from such tragic happenings and continuously using it for transportation or leaf in some places across the country. Why are we so forgetful about anything that multiple times done harm to us? The government in this country, at all levels, should set measures to ban people from using tankers for transportation to other places. This is because when a tanker explosion happens, there’s no guarantee that a single life might be rescued, as even people close by may be affected. It would be recalled that the removal of fuel subsidy by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration on May 29, 2023, has brought about serious and undesirable conditions for citizens. This has forced the citizens to adopt new ways of life in their daily activities. This includes reducing their eating habits from three meals a day, and some find it difficult to have one meal a day in their houses. The policy has no doubt brought serious chaos and critical conditions to all individuals in Nigeria. Some lecturers in the university have been forced to abondan thier cars and choose alternatives because of the high prices in fuel . Indeed, not only lecturers at universities in Nigeria have been affected reports from national dailies showed how people have abandoned their cars and motorbikes for Keke Napep, while others have resorted to using bicycles in some states. Choosing alternative modes of transportation has become necessary for citizens, as the government has refused to reduce the fuel price.This is the harsh reality for salary earners, but how are the lives of students on campuses being affected? If salary earners and business owners are facing hectic situations and serious transportation challenges, there’s no doubt that students across campuses are also affected, particularly in some universities and colleges running their activities within two campuses. This may lead the students to use some alternative for transportation, which is not advisable. Furthermore, I call on the federal government and state government to provide adequate school buses that can transport students to some of their areas, which may ease the difficulties of transportation. Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umra Zulum, is doing well in this regard because students and people are provided with buses transporting students to some notable areas, making transportation easy for residents of Maiduguri and students at large. For instance, students from Borno State University are using these buses at just 100 naira, which transports them to the Post office Which is the main rounderbout in Maiduguri. If they were to use a private car, they would pay 400 to 500 naira, making the 1,000 or 800 -naira journey cost just 200 naira. Another development in the recent budget presented by the Governor of Borno State indicates that buses will be purchased to make transportation easier for residents and students at secondary schools and tertiary institutions in the state. This is a commendable initiative, and other states in the federation should emulate this example to make transportation easier and prevent the students and people from the use of tankers and trailers for travel.Grand Peace Jirga resumes negotiations to bring peace in Kurram Despite severe cold, people of all ages are participating in protest in Parachinar to call for reopening of roads in Kurram The Grand Peace Jirga meets in Kohat on Dec 23, 2024 to discuss the Kurram situation. — Facebook@faddioo PARACHINAR: The sit-in protest against road closures in Parachinar spread to more areas on Thursday as the Grand Peace Jirga resumed negotiations in Kohat and progress was expected today (Friday). googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1700472799616-0'); }); Despite the severe cold, people of all ages, including young children were participating in the protest in Parachinar to call for reopening of the roads in the restive Kurram shut for almost 80 days. Tribes from Sultan, Gosaard, Chinarabad, and other areas initiated protests as well against road closures. Tehsil Chairman Agha Mazamil Hussain said a large number of people were participating in sit-ins at various locations. He said he had conveyed to the media that 100 children had died due to a lack of medical treatment. The LG representative said the latest statistics showed that the death toll of children had risen to 120. Agha Mazamil Hussain lamented that instead of ensuring the safety of life and property of the citizens, and providing food and medicine to people, the government was issuing statements to deny the deaths of the children. A social activist, Asadullah, said the road closures had caused a shortage of daily necessities, food items, medicines, oil and gas. “The roads should be reopened and made secure”, he demanded. Meanwhile, the district administration confirmed that talks for peace in Kurram had resumed in Kohat. “Progress is expected in the Grand Peace Jirga scheduled for tomorrow [Friday], said an official of the district administration.baccarat vs blackjack 。

Middle East latest: WHO chief says he was at Yemen airport as Israeli bombs fell nearby

If you are on the lookout for some new investments, then read on. That's because analysts at Ord Minnett have recently named a couple of ASX 200 stocks that they think are buys. Here's why they are on these names right now: ( ) The first ASX 200 stock that could be a buy according to the broker is Breville. It designs, develops, markets, and distributes small electrical kitchen appliances in the consumer products industry. As well as the eponymous Breville brand, the company's portfolio includes the Kambrook, Baratza, Sagem and Lelit brands. Ord Minnett believes that the company is on the cusp of a return to form. It said: Breville has experienced a notable decline in its return on capital over the past five years, but Ord Minnett views FY24 as the cyclic allow for returns. Our projections indicate a rebound as sales growth accelerates and operational leverage improves. This sales growth is expected to stem from improved sales momentum, innovative product development, and recent strategic acquisitions. Ord Minnett has an accumulate rating and $38.00 price target on its shares. ( ) Another ASX 200 stock that could be a buy in December according to Ord Minnett is IAG. It is a general insurance giant covering Australia and New Zealand. It offers a range of policies for vehicles, homes, businesses, travel, boats, caravans, and landlords, to name just a few. Ord Minnett notes that IAG recently hosted an investor day. This event left the broker feeling more confident in the company's earnings outlook and its options to grow the business, which was recently boosted by the $855 million acquisition of the insurance business of Queensland motoring group RACQ. Commenting on the company, the team at Ord Minnett said: ‍The company is eyeing growth in car and home insurance to fuel this expansion of market share, while Ord Minnett expects the revamp of its reinsurance arrangements will remove a lot of volatility from its earnings performance. IAG is also aiming for improved margins and efficiency via technology investment, which should ameliorate lower investment yields as interest rates fall and any pressure from attritional loss rates. ‍Post the investor day, we have made no changes to our EPS forecast for FY25, although our FY26 and FY27 estimates rise 2% and 5%, respectively. Ord Minnett currently has an accumulate rating and $9.30 price target on its shares.COLLEGE PARK, Md. (AP) — Maryland turned the ball over 25 times, blew a 17-point lead and was outrebounded in the second half. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * COLLEGE PARK, Md. (AP) — Maryland turned the ball over 25 times, blew a 17-point lead and was outrebounded in the second half. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? COLLEGE PARK, Md. (AP) — Maryland turned the ball over 25 times, blew a 17-point lead and was outrebounded in the second half. Coach Brenda Frese still had plenty to be happy about. “I thought it was a phenomenal game from two really competitive teams,” Frese said. “Credit Michigan State. We knew they were going to play hard for 40 minutes.” No. 8 Maryland faced its biggest test in a while Sunday, and the Terrapins held off the No. 19 Spartans 72-66. It wasn’t a pretty game from an offensive standpoint, but the Terps were able to execute when they needed to at the end. Up by two in the final minute, Shyanne Sellers found Christina Dalce on a pick-and-roll for an easy layup with 36.3 seconds left — her only points of the game. Michigan State didn’t score again, falling short in this matchup between two ranked Big Ten teams. This was nearly a clash of unbeatens, but the Spartans (11-2, 1-1 Big Ten) lost to Alabama in their last game before this one. Maryland (12-0, 2-0) has equaled the second-best start in team history. “It’s one of the most competitive groups I’ve ever coached,” Frese said. “It’s not really about being undefeated. Of course we love it. I think it shows just the work that they’re putting in. But for us, as long as we just continue to keep our head down and work hard through this process, I think that’s where you’re seeing the results pay off.” The Terrapins beat Duke last month, but this was their first ranked opponent since. It was a physical game in which rebounds were not for the faint of heart. “One thing I’ve loved about our team all year is our effort’s always been in a great space,” said Michigan State coach Robyn Fralick, whose team had a 10-1 edge in offensive rebounds in the second half. Maryland let a big lead get away, but with the score tied at 57, Saylor Poffenbarger and Bri McDaniel made 3-pointers to put the Terps up by six. McDaniel had to leave the game earlier in the fourth after falling to the ground with a thud, but she was able to return. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here. AP women’s college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-womens-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/womens-college-basketball Advertisement

Manchester United expert journalist Andy Mitten has revealed what every single former manager has told him about Marcus Rashford as the forward's Old Trafford career moves closer to the brink of collapse. The 27-year-old has been left out of Ruben Amorim 's last four matchday squads after failing to impress the new manager with his efforts in training. Rashford's startling decline comes less than two seasons after posting a career-best 30 goals during Erik ten Hag's debut campaign, figures that he has not come close to replicating since. After being dropped for the Manchester derby earlier in December, the player stated he believed it was the right time for him to leave the club . Now Mitten, who has worked for The Athletic and started the United We Stand fanzine, has revealed exactly what he has been told about Rashford in the past. Amorim explained why he had dropped Rashford and Garnacho, but the new statistics give further details behind his thinking Mitten Claims Every Manager Has Had Problems With Rashford Speaking to talkSPORT, Mitten explained what previous managers had told him in confidence throughout the years about Rashford and how they all claimed to have had issues with the player in the past. The journalist stated: "Every previous manager has had issues with Marcus Rashford. I've spoken to them, I know them. They've told me in confidence going back years and years and years. And the Marcus confounds those opinions by having a really good season. "From his perspective, there's not a lot of support for him among Manchester United fans. Marcus rashford is not celebrated by United fans as he once was. His stock is clearly very, very low." GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Rashford went 189 days without scoring a Premier League goal before his first strike of the season against Southampton. During his United career, the Englishman has played under eight managers if you include the temporary stints of Michael Carrick and Ruud van Nistelrooy. He was handed his debut by Louis van Gaal but fell slightly down the pecking order under Jose Mourinho. He was restored to prominence under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer but scored just twice in 22 games under Ralf Rangnick. While it initially seemed as though Erik ten Hag had finally managed to get the best out of him, Rashford was one of United's most disappointing performers during the 2023-24 campaign and has continued to struggle throughout the current season. He has not been named in the last four matchday squads since Amorim revealed he left him out of the Manchester derby due to a lack of engagement with his teammates . Rashford reportedly wants out, and these are the best destinations for him according to AI All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt - accurate as of 29/12/2024The World Health Organization’s director-general said airstrikes on Yemen’s main airport occurred as he was about to board a flight in the Houthi rebel-held capital of Sanaa. The Israeli military said it attacked infrastructure used by the Houthis at the international airport as well as power stations and ports. One of the U.N. plane’s crew was wounded, said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in a post on X, but he and his WHO colleagues were safe. He said the strikes hit the airport's air traffic control tower, departure lounge and runway. Israel's strikes on Thursday follow several days of Houthi launches setting off sirens in Israel, and last week, Israeli jets bombed Sanaa and Hodeida, killing nine people. The Houthis have also been targeting shipping in the Red Sea corridor, calling it solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. Israel's bombardment and ground invasion in Gaza has killed over 45,000 Palestinians, more than half of them women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between fighters and civilians in its count. The Hamas-led militant attack on Israel in October 2023 resulted in the deaths of about 1,200 people. Around 100 hostages are still being held in Gaza , although only two-thirds are believed to still be alive. Here’s the latest: UNITED NATIONS — The head of the U.N. health agency says he and his team were about to board a flight in Yemen’s rebel-held capital Sanaa when the airport came under aerial bombardment. The Israeli military said it attacked infrastructure used by the Houthis at the airport as well as power stations and ports in Houthi-controlled areas. “The air traffic control tower, the departure lounge — just a few meters (yards) from where we were — and the runway were damaged,” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a post on X. He said one of the U.N. plane’s crew was injured but he and his WHO colleagues were safe. “We will need to wait for the damage to the airport to be repaired before we can leave.” Tedros said the U.N. team was in Yemen to negotiate the release of U.N. staff detained by the Houthis and to assess the health and humanitarian situation in the country, which faces one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world. JERUSALEM — Houthi rebels in Yemen said Israeli airstrikes on Thursday targeted the rebel-held capital of Sanaa and the port city of Hodeida, following several days of Houthi launches that set off air-raid sirens in Israel. The Israeli military said it attacked infrastructure used by the Houthis at the international airport in Sanaa and ports at Hodeida, Al-Salif and Ras Qantib along with power stations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a speech on Wednesday that “the Houthis, too, will learn what Hamas and Hezbollah and Assad’s regime and others learned.” The Iran-backed Houthis’ media outlet reported the strikes in a Telegram post, but gave no immediate details. The U.S. military also has targeted the Houthis in Yemen in recent days. The United Nations has noted that the ports are important entryways for humanitarian aid. Over the weekend, 16 people were wounded when a Houthi missile hit a playground in Tel Aviv . Last week, Israeli jets struck Sanaa and Hodeida, killing nine people, calling it a response to previous Houthi attacks. The Houthis also have been targeting shipping on the Red Sea corridor, calling it solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. QAMISHLI, Syria — Thousands of people in northeastern Syria attended a funeral Thursday for six fighters from a Kurdish-led, U.S.-backed force who were killed in ongoing clashes with Turkish-backed militias. The Turkish-backed groups are launching attacks to take the Arab cities west of the Euphrates River that are under the control of the Kurdish group . The Turkish-supported groups helped overthrow Bashar al-Assad’s rule of Syria, and have since kept pushing eastward against the Kurdish groups. “We thought that Syria today has entered a new stage after the fall and escape of Assad. We thought that we got rid of all of this, but this attack on us changed everything and those who came in are taking orders from Turkey,” said Nihayet Hassan, the uncle of a killed fighter. The fighters were killed during attacks on Tishreen Dam near the strategic city of Manbij in recent days. The bodies were returned to the city of Qamishli in northeastern Syria where the U.S.-backed group, known as the Syrian Democratic Forces, has a strong presence. Ankara sees the SDF as an affiliate of its sworn enemy, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, which Turkey classifies as a terrorist organization. Turkish-backed armed groups backed by Turkish jets have for years attacked positions where the SDF are present across northern Syria, in a bid to create a buffer zone free from the group along the Turkish border. “It is obvious that Turkey’s issue is with the Kurds. It is not about an organization, or the PKK, no, their target are the Kurds,” said Ahmad Ammo, a Qamishli resident who attended the funeral. The U.S. has about 2,000 soldiers in eastern Syria to help fight the Islamic State group and protect critical oil fields there. BEIRUT — The Lebanese military said Thursday that Israeli troops encroached on areas of southern Lebanon, violating a ceasefire agreement that ended the war between Israel and the Hezbollah group. The U.S.-brokered ceasefire that went into effect a month ago called for Hezbollah militants and Israeli troops to leave southern Lebanon over a 60-day period as Lebanese army soldiers gradually deploy in the country south of the Litani River. The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the reported incident. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency said Israeli bulldozers are setting up dirt barricades that would close off the road between Wadi Slouqi and Wadi Hujeir. Lebanon’s military said it brought reinforcements into the areas entered by Israeli troops. NNA said the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, known as UNIFIL, sent a patrol unit to an area near the southern town of Qantara where Israeli forces are present. UNIFIL in a statement expressed its “concern at continuing destruction by the IDF (Israeli military) in residential areas, agricultural land, and road networks in south Lebanon.” Lebanese army chief Gen. Joseph Aoun traveled to Saudi Arabia earlier Thursday as part of ongoing efforts by the cash-strapped military to find financial support to deploy in larger numbers. The Lebanese military and government have complained about Israeli strikes and overflights in the country to a new monitoring committee headed by the U.S. that also includes France. DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip — An Israeli strike killed five Palestinian journalists outside a hospital in the Gaza Strip overnight, the Health Ministry said Thursday. The Israeli army said it had targeted a group of militants. The strike hit a car outside the Al-Awda Hospital in the built-up Nuseirat refugee camp in the central part of the territory. The journalists were working for the local news outlet Al-Quds Today, a television channel affiliated with the Islamic Jihad militant group. The military said it targeted a group of fighters from Islamic Jihad, a militant group allied with Hamas, whose Oct. 7, 2023, attack into southern Israel ignited the war. Associated Press video showed the incinerated shell of a van, with press markings still visible on the back doors. The Committee to Protect Journalists says over 130 Palestinian reporters have been killed since the start of the war. Israel has not allowed foreign reporters to enter Gaza except on military embeds. This post has been corrected to show that the name of the local news outlet is Al-Quds Today, not the Quds News Network. BEIJING — China has pledged two more shipments of humanitarian aid to Gaza, in an indication of support for the Palestinian Authority, state media reported Thursday. The agreement was overseen in Cairo by Chinese Ambassador to Egypt Liao Liqiang and Palestinian Ambassador to Egypt Diab al-Louh. “To ease the humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip, the Chinese government has continued to provide assistance to Palestine,” Liao was quoted as saying. The types and quantities of aid to be delivered via Egypt were not given, but China has previously shipped food and medicine to Gaza. China has longstanding ties with the Palestinian Authority but has also sought to strengthen economic and political relations with Israel. Al-Louh “voiced appreciation for China’s consistent and firm support for the just cause of the Palestinian people and for raising this issue on international occasions," state media said. UNITED NATIONS — The U.N. Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on Monday at Israel’s request to discuss recent attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. Israel’s U.N. Mission said Wednesday the meeting will take place at 10 a.m. Monday. Israeli U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon said he expects the council will condemn the Houthi attacks. He urged the council “to enforce international law and hold Iran, the Houthis’ patron, accountable.” Alluding to Israeli retaliation for the attacks, Danon said ”It seems that the Houthis have not yet understood what happens to those who try to harm the state of Israel.”

Exclusive-Power failed at SpaceX mission control before September spacewalk by NASA nominee

When Katja Vogt considers a Jaguar, she pictures a British-made car purring confidently along the Italian coastline — a vision of familiarity that conveys "that dreaming, longing feeling we all love." She's not sure what to think about Jaguar now after the 89-year-old company announced a radical rebranding that featured loud colors and androgynous people — but no cars. Jaguar, the company says, will now be JaGUar. It will produce only electric vehicles beginning in 2026. Bad attention is good attention, Jaguar execs would appear to believe. The car brand has prompted mockery online for posting a glitzy ad without a single car in it. Say goodbye to British racing green, Cotswold Blue and black. Its colors are henceforth electric pink, red and yellow, according to a video that sparked backlash online. Its mission statement: "Create exuberance. Live vivid. Delete ordinary. Break moulds." "Intrigued?" @Jaguar posted on social media. "Weird and unsettled" is more like it, Vogt wrote on Instagram. "Especially now, with the world feeling so dystopian," the Cyprus-based brand designer wrote, "a heritage brand like Jaguar should be conveying feelings of safety, stability, and maybe a hint of rebellion — the kind that shakes things up in a good way, not in a way that unsettles." Our brands, ourselves Jaguar was one of several iconic companies that announced significant rebrandings in recent weeks, upending a series of commercial — and cultural — landmarks by which many modern human beings sort one another, carve out identities and recognize the world around them. Campbell's, the 155-year-old American icon that artist Andy Warhol immortalized in pop culture decades ago, is ready for a new, soupless name. Comcast's corporate reorganization means there will soon be two television networks with "NBC" in their name — CNBC and MSNBC — that will no longer have any corporate connection to NBC News, a U.S. legacy news outlet. CNBC One could even argue the United States itself is rebranding with the election of former President Donald Trump and Republican majorities in the House and Senate. Unlike Trump's first election in 2016, he won the popular vote in what many called a national referendum on American identity. Are we, then, the sum total of our consumer decisions — what we buy, where we travel and whom we elect? Certainly, it's a question for those privileged enough to be able to afford such choices. Volumes of research in the art and science of branding — from "brandr," an old Norse word for burning symbols into the hides of livestock — say those factors do contribute to the modern sense of identity. So rebranding, especially of heritage names, can be a deeply felt affront to consumers. "It can feel like the brand is turning its back on everything that it stood for — and therefore it feels like it's turning its back on us, the people who subscribe to that idea or ideology," said Ali Marmaduke, strategy director with the Amsterdam-based Brand Potential. He said cultural tension — polarization — is surging over politics, wars in Russia and the Mideast, the environment, public health and more, creating what Marmaduke said is known as a "polycrisis": the idea that there are several massive crises converging that feel scary and complex. Campbell's soups "People are understandably freaked out by that," he said. "So we are looking for something that will help us navigate this changing, threatening world that we face." Trump's "Make America Great Again" qualifies. So did President Joe Biden's "Build Back Better" slogan. Campbell's soup itself — "Mmm Mmm Good" — isn't going anywhere, CEO Mark Clouse said. The company's new name, Campbell's Co., will reflect "the full breadth of our portfolio," which includes brands like Prego pasta sauce and Goldfish crackers. What is Jaguar? None of the recent activity around heritage brands sparked a backlash as ferocious as Jaguar's. The company stood as a pillar of tradition-loving British identity since World War II. The famous "leaper" cat Jaguar logo is pictured in 2019 at the Auto show in Paris, France. Jaguar said its approach to the rebrand was rooted in the philosophy of its founder, Sir William Lyons, to "copy nothing." What it's calling "the new Jaguar" will overhaul everything from the font of its name to the positioning of it's famous "leaper" cat. "Exuberant modernism" will "define all aspects of the new Jaguar world," according to the news release. The approach is thought to be aimed at selling fewer cars at a six-figure price point to a more diverse customer base. The reaction ranged from bewilderment to hostility. Memes sprouted up likening the video to the Teletubbies, a Benetton ad and — perhaps predictably — a bow to "woke" culture as the blowback intersected with politics. The business news you need Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly.MALIBU, Calif., Dec. 13, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — As the Franklin Fire nears containment, having scorched over 4,000 acres and displaced thousands of residents, the Satellite Phone Store ( satellitephonestore.com ) is stepping up to provide critical communication solutions to assist recovery efforts and prepare communities for future emergencies. The Franklin Fire, which destroyed six homes and damaged others, left many areas without reliable communication infrastructure. Satellite communication devices such as sat phones & starlink terminals , which function independently of damaged cell networks, are proving essential for both emergency responders and returning residents. IN RESPONSE TO THE CRISIS, THE SATELLITE PHONE STORE IS OFFERING: “A WAKE-UP CALL FOR PREPAREDNESS” “Disasters like the Franklin Fire remind us how essential reliable communication is during and after an emergency,” said Tina Blanco, CEO of Satellite Phone Store. “We’re here to help Malibu recover, but we also want to encourage everyone to think ahead. It’s never too late to prepare for the unexpected, and having the right tools can make all the difference.” SATELLITE COMMUNICATION: A LIFELINE DURING AND AFTER A CRISIS As displaced residents begin returning home, satellite communication tools are helping: With the wildfire starting to be under control, attention now shifts to the importance of emergency preparedness. Wildfires, earthquakes, and other natural disasters can happen at any time, and satellite communication ensures connectivity when traditional networks fail. WHY PREPAREDNESS MATTERS The Satellite Phone Store emphasizes the importance of readiness for future emergencies: PREPARE TODAY FOR TOMORROW’S EMERGENCIES As Malibu rebuilds, the Satellite Phone Store urges individuals and communities to take action now to prepare for what’s next. Reliable communication tools aren’t just for disasters—they’re a safeguard for the unexpected challenges of the future. About Satellite Phone Store: The Satellite Phone Store, a division of Connecta Satellite Solutions LLC , is a global leader in satellite communication technology. Specializing in satellite phones, portable internet hotspots, GPS trackers, and emergency equipment, the company equips families, businesses, and governments with tools to stay connected in extreme conditions. For more information, visit https://SatellitePhoneStore.com/ or call 1-877-324-6913. MEDIA CONTACT: Lacey Moore Website: SatellitePhoneStore.com Email: Care@SatellitePhoneStore.com Phone: 1-877-324-6913 Locations: California, Florida, Alaska NEWS SOURCE: Satellite Phone Store Keywords: Telecom and VoIP, Emergency, Telecom, Technology, Internet, Natural Disasters, malibu wildfires, portable internet, satellite internet, sat phones, franklin fires, emergency response, california, MALIBU, Calif. This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Satellite Phone Store) who is solely responsibile for its accuracy, by Send2Press® Newswire . Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed. Story ID: S2P122844 APDF15TBLLI To view the original version, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/satellite-phone-store-steps-in-to-support-malibu-wildfire-recovery-with-lifesaving-communication-tools/ © 2024 Send2Press® Newswire, a press release distribution service, Calif., USA. Disclaimer: This press release content was not created by nor issued by the Associated Press (AP). Content below is unrelated to this news story.

Dollar Tree (NASDAQ:DLTR) Price Target Raised to $70.00

Sub-$20,000 new cars are dead in Canada—now what?The year 2024 comes to and end and we step into 2025 with hope, joy, and a renewed spirit. It is a time for It’s a time for fresh beginnings and renewed hopes. It is also the time to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, cherish our loved ones, and strive to make the most of each moment. ET Year-end Special Reads What kept India's stock market investors on toes in 2024? India's car race: How far EVs went in 2024 Investing in 2025: Six wealth management trends to watch out for Here is a compilation of new year messages , wishes, quotes, and greetings to send to your friends and family on social media. Happy New Year 2025: Wishes for family and friends "Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right." — Oprah Winfrey May the new year bring new happiness, new goals, and new achievements. Here’s to a fantastic 2025 with your loved ones. "Wishing you health, wealth, and happiness in the New Year ahead. May it be a year full of opportunities and growth." 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View Program Data Science SQL for Data Science along with Data Analytics and Data Visualization By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI and Analytics based Business Strategy By - Tanusree De, Managing Director- Accenture Technology Lead, Trustworthy AI Center of Excellence: ATCI View Program Web Development A Comprehensive ASP.NET Core MVC 6 Project Guide for 2024 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Digital Marketing Masterclass by Pam Moore By - Pam Moore, Digital Transformation and Social Media Expert View Program Artificial Intelligence(AI) AI-Powered Python Mastery with Tabnine: Boost Your Coding Skills By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Office Productivity Mastering Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and 365 By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Marketing Digital marketing - Wordpress Website Development By - Shraddha Somani, Digital Marketing Trainer, Consultant, Strategiest and Subject Matter expert View Program Office Productivity Mastering Google Sheets: Unleash the Power of Excel and Advance Analysis By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Web Development Mastering Full Stack Development: From Frontend to Backend Excellence By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program Finance Financial Literacy i.e Lets Crack the Billionaire Code By - CA Rahul Gupta, CA with 10+ years of experience and Accounting Educator View Program Data Science SQL Server Bootcamp 2024: Transform from Beginner to Pro By - Metla Sudha Sekhar, IT Specialist and Developer View Program A fresh year means fresh opportunities. Make the most of 2025 and be the best version of yourself. "May the New Year bring you more happiness, success, and blessings than last year. Enjoy every day to the fullest in 2025." Here’s to a year of adventure, love, and unforgettable memories. "As the sun sets on this year, may it rise again for you with a bright and happy 2025." Wishing you a year full of smiles and laughter. Happy New Year! Hope you have a year filled with positivity. Wishing you and your family endless blessings this year. Happy New Year 2024! I hope your life is filled with surprises this year. Happy New Year! Wishing you a year filled with laughter. Happy New Year! Wishing you and your family a year filled with happiness. May this year bring lots of prosperity. Happy New Year! As you say goodbye to 2023, and welcome the year 2024, may happiness follow you always. Happy New Year! Wishing you a year of fulfillment and happiness. Happy New Year! May the new bring countless blessings to you and your family. Happy New Year! Wishing you a year of happiness and good luck. Happy New Year! May the new year bring lots of love and light to your family. Happy New Year! Inspirational New Year Quotes for 2025 "As the year ends, may you find peace, joy, and fulfillment. Have a wonderful 2025, filled with blessings and endless happiness!" "May this new year be as bright as your smile and as joyful as your spirit. Wishing you a prosperous and happy 2025!" "Sending you my warmest wishes for a year filled with love, laughter, and new memories. May 2025 bring you everything you desire." "May the new year bring peace to your life, success in your career, and abundance in your personal life. Happy New Year 2025! New Year 2025 status for Social Media "Goodbye 2024, welcome 2025! Let’s make this year our best one yet." "Here’s to 12 new chapters, 365 new chances, and a year of endless possibilities. Happy New Year!" "Let’s embrace the New Year with optimism and make 2025 a year of growth and achievement." 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"Sending you all my love and best wishes for a prosperous and healthy 2025. May this year bring endless joy into your life." (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )The vote by a committee that was studying the issue is hardly a surprise. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones — a possible Republican contender for governor in 2026 — announced almost identical goals at the panel's first meeting in August . It’s an issue that’s already been addressed in Georgia. Legislators in 2022 empowered the Georgia High School Association to regulate transgender students' participation in sports. The association, which regulates sports and activities for all public schools and some private schools, then banned transgender boys and girls from playing on the school sports teams matching their gender identity. Jones and others argue that doesn't go far enough and that lawmakers themselves need to act. It's a sign Republicans believe there is more political gain in fears about transgender women playing women’s sports or using women’s bathrooms. At least 26 mostly Republican states have passed laws or rules to restrict transgender girls from participating high school sports and, in some cases, transgender women from college sports , according to the Movement Advancement Project, a gay rights group. In Georgia, additional action appears more likely now after House Speaker Jon Burns and Gov. Brian Kemp, both Republicans, have voiced support for further legislation. Jeff Graham, executive director of the LGBTQ+ advocacy group Georgia Equality, said his group is playing defense, concerned about the possibility of other bills that could further restrict gender-affirming care or ban transgender people from using public bathrooms that match their gender identity. “We’re expecting that it’ll be at least what we saw in 2023 and 2024, with the number of bills and more than likely laws,” Graham told reporters Friday. But Burns, from Newington, has said he's not interested in other bills dealing with transgender people besides those dealing with girls' and women's sports. Republican State Sen. Greg Dolezal, of Cumming, who led the Senate study committee, said Friday that he, too, is not interested in a broader bill regulating bathroom usage, although his committee recommended that schools that host sporting events require athletes to use locker rooms based on their assigned sex at birth. Dolezal said senators would seek to write legislation that regulated public schools and colleges, as well as private institutions that compete against public schools and colleges. The committee also recommends that people be able to sue or file grievances if schools break the rules, and that state money be withheld from schools that break the rules. Supporters of more action have focused on the 2022 NCAA women’s swimming championships at Georgia Tech in Atlanta, where Lia Thomas, a transgender woman, swam for the University of Pennsylvania and won the 500-meter freestyle . The NCAA has since revised its policy on transgender women’s participation, saying it will follow the rules of respective athletics federations. World Aquatics, the swimming governing body, banned transgender women who have been through male puberty from competing in women’s races. That means Thomas wouldn’t be allowed to swim in NCAA events today. “My basic contention that this is a solution in search of a problem remains,” Graham said. He said he fears that many people who oppose laws that seek to restrict transgender people will be afraid to testify and lobby at the Georgia Capitol, citing assault charges against a man accused of shaking U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace in a Capitol office building in Washington, D.C. Dolezal repeatedly tried to turn down the emotional temperature of the issue on Friday. “I think that there’s a group of people that wants to be respected and I think that they deserve respect,” Dolezal told reporters. “But I also think that you can be respectful, but also recognize that in the sporting arena, fairness and competition is important.”

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Canada Post says it has removed the deadline for its Santa Claus letter program amid an ongoing national workers’ strike that has halted mail delivery leading up to the holiday season. Some 55,000 workers walked off the job more than two weeks ago, suspending mail service — and a program that helps deliver up to 1.5 million letters from Canadian kids to the North Pole each year. The postal service says in a statement that while the initial deadline to mail a letter to Santa with the iconic H0H 0H0 postal code was Dec. 6, it has now removed the deadline from its website. It says once operations resume, it will ensure that all letters make it to the North Pole and receive a reply, but it cannot guarantee delivery dates. Canada Post says since the program began more than 40 years ago, Santa’s North Pole post office has delivered replies to more than 45 million letters. During the strike, some communities have stepped up to deliver Santa’s mail themselves, offering their own local programming on social media to make sure letter writers receive a reply by Christmas. The strike entered its 19th day as the Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping weekend came to a close. Canada Post said Monday it was waiting for the union to respond to a framework it presented over the weekend for reaching negotiated agreements. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers has said it’s reviewed the proposal. It said Canada Post has moved closer to the union’s position on some issues, but the framework “still remains far from something members could ratify.” One of the sticking points has been a push to add weekend delivery, with the union and Canada Post disagreeing over how the rollout would work. The federal government has been under pressure from the business community to intervene in the strike but has said that’s not in the cards.Pro Football Hall of Fame reveals 2025 finalists as one nominee ignites controversy 44 years after tragedy READ MORE: Texans 'stand behind' Azeez Al-Shaair amid outrage over tackle READ MORE: Trevor Lawrence's wife Marissa speaks out after brutal Al-Shaair hit By ALEX RASKIN Published: 22:48 GMT, 3 December 2024 | Updated: 23:06 GMT, 3 December 2024 e-mail 1 View comments Legendary Green Bay Packers receiver Sterling Sharpe and his former head coach Mike Holmgren are among the 2025 finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but there's a far more controversial name on the ballot this time around. Nominated in the Seniors category for players whose careers ended before 1999, former Kansas City Chiefs left tackle Tyrer was a six-time All-Pro and member of the AFL all-decade team for the 1960s while famously protecting quarterback Len Dawson's blind side. He won three AFL titles and one Super Bowl with the Chiefs franchise before ending his career with Washington in 1974. Tyrer was considered a shoo-in for the Hall of Fame at the time of his retirement. In fact, every other nonspecialist who was a six-time All-Pro and is eligible for the Hall has been inducted. But shortly after he was picked as a finalist for the first time, Tyrer shot his wife in a murder-suicide in September 1980. Tyrer had been dealing with depression and severe headaches that experts now believe might have been CTE, the degenerative brain disease that has been found in many former NFL players who endured repeated blows to their heads in their career. CTE can be diagnosed only posthumously. Tyrer didn't get voted in that year and wasn't nominated again until this year. Chiefs legend Jim Tyrer (pictured) shot his wife in a murder-suicide in September 1980 Brad Tyrer, son of former Kansas City Chiefs offensive lineman Jim Tyrer, believes his father suffered from CTE. And it was this condition, Brad says, that led to the 1980 murder-suicide Read More Retired NFL star's father arrested for attempted strangulation Since the tragedy, Tyrer's son Brad and a doctor who treated the former lineman have both spoken out in his defence, insisting that the murder-suicide was the result of his football career. 'If it walks like a duck, it quacks, it has webbed feet and water goes off its back, it's not a zebra: It's CTE,' Doug Paone, the doctor who treated Tyrer days prior to the murder-suicide, told the Kansas City Star in 2020. '[Tyrer] would be the poster child for CTE.' Brad Tyrer insists his father was never violent or even angry until he started battling head issues. 'My dad was just a great guy, an all-around great guy; he didn't cuss, he didn't drink, you never saw him raise his voice at my mom, ever,' Brad said in 2020. 'It was just that something snapped. And that wasn't him ... It was somebody else who did that.' Fans, however, have been largely against the idea of enshrining Tyrer in Canton. One called the idea the 'height of lunacy.' 'He murdered his wife and then killed himself in 1980,' the fan wrote. 'And that is a Hall of Famer?' 'Jim Tyrer!' another added. 'That's not a story the league wanted dredged up.' Sharpe was picked as one of three finalists in the Seniors category for players whose career ended in 1999 or earlier, along with Maxie Baughan and Tyrer, in voting results announced Tuesday. Holmgren was picked as the lone finalist in the coaching category and Ralph Hay, who helped found the NFL more than a century ago, was the finalist in the contributor category. Fans were upset to see Tyrer nominated for the Pro Football Hall of Fame after the 1980 murder Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre (4) talks to head Coach Mike Holmgren as time winds down in the NFC Championship Game, a 23-10 victory over the San Francisco 49ers in 1998 Green Bay Packers receiver Sterling Sharpe (84) during a 31-22 loss to the Detroit Lions in 1989 Sterling Sharpe has a word with Packers head coach Mike Holmgren after a playoff game in 1994 The five will be grouped together for voting by the full selection committee in January. Voters can pick three of the candidates, meaning a maximum of three can reach the 80% threshold needed for induction. If no one gets 80 percent of the votes, then the leading vote-getter will get into the Hall. The selection committee will vote separately on 15 finalists from the modern era , with the 2025 inductees being announced during Super Bowl week in New Orleans in February. One of Brett Favre's favorite targets, Sharpe had a short but productive career for the Green Bay Packers from 1988-94. His best season came in 1992, when he became the sixth player to win the receiving triple crown, setting set an NFL record with 108 catches for 1,461 yards and 13 touchdowns. The brother of Hall-of-Fame tight end Shannon Sharpe, Sterling broke his own record with 112 catches in 1993 and led the NFL with 18 touchdown receptions in his final season, 1994, before a neck injury cut his career short. Sharpe was a three-time All-Pro and had 595 catches for 8,134 yards and 65 TDs. He trailed only Jerry Rice over his seven-year career in receptions and TD catches. Baughan was one of the top linebackers in the game in the 1960s for Philadelphia and the Los Angeles Rams. He helped the Eagles win an NFL title as a rookie in 1960 and made nine Pro Bowls in a 10-year span with one first-team and five second-team All-Pro selections. Sharpe and Baughan were never finalists during their time in the modern era category. Holmgren was one of the most influential offensive coaches, starting with his time as an assistant on two Super Bowl champion teams in San Francisco. He went on to coach Green Bay for seven seasons, winning a Super Bowl following the 1996 season. He coached 10 years in Seattle and finished with a 161-111 record, going to three Super Bowls overall. Holmgren also had a big impact on future coaches, with Andy Reid and Jon Gruden going on to win Super Bowls after working under him in Green Bay. Hay owned the Canton Bulldogs from 1918-22 and hosted the meeting the led to the formation of the NFL. He beat out a group of semifinalists that included six-time Super Bowl champion owner Robert Kraft. Green Bay Packers AFL Share or comment on this article: Pro Football Hall of Fame reveals 2025 finalists as one nominee ignites controversy 44 years after tragedy e-mail Add comment

After a fuselage panel blew off a 737 in January, Boeing found itself in a familiar place — on Capitol Hill, under Congress’s microscope. In 2008, Congress had found that nearly 60,000 Southwest flights in 2006 and 2007 were allowed even though the airline knew the Boeing planes were out of compliance with Federal Aviation Administration safety standards. After Southwest came clean to the FAA, the agency allowed over 1,000 more flights on the out-of-compliance aircraft. The scrutiny Boeing was facing from Congress intensified considerably after fatal crashes of Boeing 737 Max airplanes in 2018 and 2019, and was reinvigorated again earlier this year when a hole opened in the side of a 737 as it climbed out of Portland, Ore. A common theme ran through Congress’ findings in those instances: The FAA was often deferential to the manufacturer whose work it was meant to police. Then a subplot emerged. Congressional hearings revealed Boeing had been hiring ex-government workers, people with personal connections to and intimate knowledge of Beltway politics, to pressure the agency whose primary purpose is to assure safe air travel. Critics of the practice view the Boeing hearings of 2008 and 2020 as clear evidence that a “revolving door” — when ex-government officials move to jobs in industries they had policed, sometimes returning to government after their stints in the private sector — was undermining oversight. They claim the specter of more lucrative employment in industry sometimes drives regulators to conduct weak oversight in hopes that they can cash in on their government experience. Once through the revolving door, ex-government workers may use their connections with their former colleagues to apply pressure on regulators. Key decision-makers who passed through the revolving door connecting Boeing and the FAA compromised regulatory oversight, according to the chairman of a committee who led those hearings in Congress. Congress responded by adopting new laws in 2008 and 2020 that prohibit FAA employees from moving directly to the industry they regulate. Now, former FAA employees must wait two years before they can represent companies such as Boeing in interactions with the government. Boeing and the FAA say the laws have been implemented and are being followed. But critics, including lawmakers who drafted the legislation, say those measures didn’t go far enough. In 2022 alone, the 20 highest-paid defense contractors hired 672 former government officials, military officers, members of Congress and senior legislative staff, according to a report commissioned by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts. Boeing hired the most by far, 85. Boeing also hired more former government officials to executive positions than any other Pentagon contractor, the report showed. At the FAA, it’s common for senior political appointees to come from industry, and return to it after their tours in government. But the FAA today says the revolving door isn’t the problem that that critics make it out to be. Political appointees at the agency pass through the revolving door to industry more frequently than civil service employees there, FAA spokesman Ian Gregor said. The average tenure for a political appointee at the agency is just 2 years and 2 months, while the average tenure of FAA civil servants is over 12 years. He noted that the FAA strives to abide by the restrictions on post-government employment that require cooling-off periods before representing their new employer in regulatory actions involving their former workplace. “We do not agree that there is a revolving door between the FAA and industry,” Gregor said, noting that FAA follows the laws governing its employees who accept jobs in the aerospace industry. “The FAA’s response would be laughable if it weren’t so discordant with the facts,” said Dylan Hedtler-Gaudette, director of government affairs at the Project On Government Oversight, or POGO, a nonprofit government ethics watchdog. “For the FAA to claim that it is not a revolving door to industry is to tell us not to believe our lying eyes; truly Orwellian stuff.” ‘A cozy relationship’ The revelation 17 years ago was astonishing: 46 Boeing aircraft owned by Southwest Airlines had carried passengers on nearly 60,000 flights in 2006 and 2007 while all of the planes’ fuselages fell short of federal standards. Southwest had told the FAA its planes were out of compliance, but the responsible FAA supervisor waited eight days to ground the planes, allowing almost 1,500 more flights on compromised aircraft. Whistleblowers would later pin the delay on a close relationship between the FAA supervisor and Southwest’s regulatory compliance manager, a former FAA employee. It ultimately took three parallel investigations and several years to lift the veil on how airlines and aerospace giants like Boeing rely on ex-government officials on their payrolls, and C-suite meetings with regulators, to sway the government. “We want to know that the people who are making the decisions that are going to have potentially fatal consequences are there representing the views and the best interests of the public of the United States, not looking over their shoulder or looking ahead to their next gig, which would obviously be more lucrative,” former Rep. Peter DeFazio, D-Ore, said in a phone interview. DeFazio led congressional hearings into the crashes of 2018 and 2019 and authored legislation promoting stronger oversight of the aerospace industry. “The American public can’t afford a cozy relationship between the FAA and those it regulates,” said Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash. After the scandal-driven reforms of 2008, the cooling-off period became law. But then, Congress kept its hands off the FAA’s revolving door until two Boeing 737 Max jets crashed in 2018 and 2019, killing 346 people, largely because of a catastrophic engineering lapse. Boeing’s sway over FAA officials again took center stage in Congress. The chief safety officer at FAA headquarters at the time, Ali Bahrami, became the face of the revolving door at the House committee hearings led by DeFazio. Before joining the executive ranks at FAA, Bahrami was an FAA safety lead at its Seattle office, where inspectors complained that he was too deferential to Boeing. Bahrami next worked for the Aerospace Industries Association, the lobbying juggernaut that represents Boeing and other aerospace companies. In that job, Bahrami pushed for further delegation of FAA oversight to the manufacturers who paid his salary. That didn’t stop the federal government from welcoming Bahrami back. He occupied a post one rung below the FAA administrator in 2017. At the hearings, it was revealed that Bahrami overlooked an FAA analysis of the first Max crash, in 2018, that warned more accidents were likely if a vital flight-control system wasn’t fixed. Bahrami did not direct the FAA to ground planes with the known defect, and some families who lost loved ones six months later in the second crash blamed him directly. Following the hearings in 2020, Congress acknowledged the revolving door phenomenon had undermined safety, passing far-reaching legislation that tried to address the revolving door and much more. Among its provisions was a Bahrami-inspired two-year cooling-off period for some former FAA personnel before they can represent a private employer on government actions, and a one-year wait for new FAA employees before they can deal with their former employers. The law also prohibited some meetings between high-ranking FAA officials and Boeing executives. The cooling-off periods built into the 2020 law are similar to restrictions passed by Congress in 2008, but longer — two years instead of one. Close observers say both measures amounted to little more than another ineffective employment restriction. Even DeFazio, who authored the 2020 expansion of revolving-door restrictions, questions whether Congress has done enough. A question of political will Boeing is uniquely positioned to pressure government agencies responsible for overseeing the company’s contracts and regulatory compliance. The military aircraft and weapons it produces make it a Pentagon mainstay. Meanwhile, its commercial aircraft division, regulated by the FAA, is a crucial fulcrum for American air-travel and cargo industries. The personnel who roam between jobs in government and corporate America are the tendons that allow Boeing to flex its muscles. Boeing has hired away Pentagon officials who worked directly on the company’s defense contracts, Congressional staff who were then deployed to steer lawmakers on everything from subsidies to safety expectations, and FAA officials who’ve traded government work for bigger paychecks with private-sector aerospace firms. At least seven of the past 10 FAA administrators moved on to jobs with the industry they regulated. None moved directly to Boeing after heading the agency, but one revolved to lead the Aerospace Industries Association, which lobbies on behalf of Boeing and other aerospace firms and employed Bahrami before Congress confirmed him as FAA’s top safety official. Current FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker is a former United Airlines and Delta Air Lines executive. His predecessor, Michael Huerta, joined the Delta board after leaving FAA. Before that, Randy Babbitt left the top FAA job to become an executive at Southwest Airlines. These travelers through the revolving door alone undermine the FAA’s claim that it’s not a revolving door to industry, according to Hedtler-Gaudette of the Project On Government Oversight. “If that FAA administrator goes to a company it has regulatory authority over, you have to question every decision that administrator made,” Hedtler-Gaudette argued. That isn’t to say that there aren’t benefits to the revolving-door system, or that all who pass through the revolving door are corporate mercenaries. In fact, some who’ve challenged safety practices on Boeing’s factory floor moved on to the FAA, where they championed safety even when it meant taking on their new bosses. “Boeing employees come from a wide variety of backgrounds with a range of relevant expertise, and the company works to ensure that it abides by all laws and regulations when hiring talented professionals to join our team,” Boeing spokesperson Deborah VanNierop said in a written response to questions from The Seattle Times. An open door for employment between government and industry benefits the FAA, according to spokesman Gregor. “Highly qualified candidates are more likely to take government positions knowing they have future, and potentially more lucrative, career options in the industry in which they are qualified to work,” he said. Boeing plucks workers from the Department of Justice, which has threatened prosecution of the company, and may do so again. It also hires from the White House, the State Department, the Navy and the Air Force. Their jobs at Boeing include lobbying, managing government contracts and interacting with regulators, according to the report commissioned by Warren. Efforts to further curb the revolving door between government and industry inevitably face headwinds from the clout-laden companies that benefit from the practice, according to Hedtler-Gaudette. “It requires more political will,” he said. “The only people opposed to these rules are the people who benefit from these rules not existing.” Congress’ first bid to prohibit awarding contracts to companies that hire retired Pentagon officials came in 1959. President Dwight Eisenhower encouraged the legislation to stem the growing clout of the burgeoning “military-industrial complex.” It failed by one vote. Congress hasn’t taken any new action targeting the revolving door to the aerospace industry since the hearings of 2020 and the legislation that resulted. In its highly critical audit of the FAA’s oversight of Boeing released Oct. 11, the Department of Transportation Inspector General called the FAA’s oversight model “a failing system” that the agency could improve, and along the way, restore public trust in the safety of Boeing aircraft.DHAKA, Bangladesh , Nov. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- With the popularity of electric vehicles in Bangladesh , the globally renowned AIMA brand has also arrived in Bangladesh . The esteemed DX Group has brought the AIMA F-626 to customers. This environmentally friendly battery-operated electric motorbike has already been approved by the Bangladesh Road Transport Authorit y ( B RTA) now. In light of the increasing popularity of electric motorcycles in the country, the internationally-leading brand AIMA has entered the market. By the end of 2023, AIMA electric two-wheelers had established a presence in over 50 countries worldwide, with 11 global production bases, including overseas factories in Indonesia and Vietnam . In 2022, AIMA collaborated with Rob Janoff , the designer of the Apple logo, to refresh the brand's VI system with a youthful and fashionable image. In 2023, AIMA teamed up with PANTONE, the global authority in color expertise, to create the trending color of the year. As an industry leader, AIMA spearheads the electric two-wheeler sector and showcases the prowess of a leading electric two-wheeler brand on a global scale. As of March 31, 2024 , AIMA's total electric two-wheeler sales had reached 80 million units, earning certification from Frost & Sullivan, a globally recognized business growth consulting firm, as the "Global Leading Electric Two-wheeler Brand". Over the years, AIMA has always been a product trendsetter in the electric two-wheeler sector. As of March 31, 2024 , the total sales volume of AIMA electric two-wheelers reached 80 million, and Frost & Sullivan, a world-renowned market consulting company, awarded AIMA with the market status certification of the "Global Leading Electric Two-wheeler Brand (by Sales)". AIMA adhere to the customer-centered product philosophy and technologies that support long-term innovation and breakthroughs. We believe that the efficiency and modern technology of the AIMA F-626 will present an excellent alternative means of communication for our customers. SOURCE AIMA TechnologyFox News Griff Jenkins reports from Eagle Pass, Texas with an exclusive interview with U.S. Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens. EXCLUSIVE : Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens says he is "excited" by the prospect of incoming Trump border czar Tom Homan leading the charge of deportations and border security – as he pointed to violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua as one of the top threats facing the country. Owens, who took the position of chief last year, spoke to Fox News’ Griff Jenkins in San Antonio, Texas, in his first interview since the election. He was asked what he thought of the appointment of Homan, a former Border Patrol agent and former head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). "I'm excited because Tom Homan is a brother Border Patrol agent. He served time in this uniform. And so I'm excited to see any of our green family make good," he said. "And I'm excited to see what he's going to do." NYC MAYOR DELIVERS BLUNT MESSAGE TO LEFT-WING CRITICS OVER DESIRE TO MEET WITH TRUMP'S INCOMING BORDER CZAR Migrants at the southern border encountered in Arizona. (U.S. Border Patrol) "I can tell you that the interior enforcement and the deportations, what they represent is a consequence. They represent a consequence of not following our laws and coming into our country the right way," he said. There have been tensions between the Biden administration and Border Patrol agents over the handling of the crisis at the southern border. The Border Patrol union has been deeply critical of the administration and backed the Trump campaign during the presidential election. Owens came into the role as chief in a year that saw record encounters at the southern border. He said "it’s been exhausting" for agents to deal with the last four years at the border. Numbers have dropped sharply recently due in part to a proclamation limiting asylum signed by President Biden in June, but it is unclear if those numbers will remain low for long. FIVE THINGS TO WATCH FOR ON IMMIGRATION AND BORDER SECURITY IN 2025 Owens warned that cartels are adjusting their tactics to get around the new challenges, including increased technology, and he pointed to fentanyl and the violent Venezuelan migrant gang Tren de Aragua as two of the top threats on the agency’s radar. "It's a very serious threat for us," he said of Tren de Aragua (TdA). "It is one of our top priorities, just like fentanyl. Tomorrow it may be something else, but today it's TdA and fentanyl that they represent some of the biggest threats to our people in this country." The gang has been linked with a number of high-profile crimes across the U.S. and has expanded its presence and criminal activities into multiple states, including Colorado, where it has reportedly taken over a number of apartment buildings. Owens also points to the unknowns facing agents, including 250,000 gotaways at the border. BORDER STATE OFFERS TRUMP MASSIVE PLOT OF LAND TO AID MASS DEPORTATION OPERATION "We need to make them come to the front door. It's that unknown, and what the intent is that scares me the most and probably any other law enforcement and border security professional that you're going to ask out there. It's why are they coming in, and why aren't they using the front door? And what are they planning on doing that could potentially harm our country and our people?" he said. He noted that it’s harder to vet migrants from countries where there are no diplomatic relations, meaning it’s much harder to know who is coming into the U.S. He says that what keeps him up at night is the possibility of failure in apprehending threats coming into the U.S. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "What keeps me up at night is not being successful, knowing that for every person that we miss, for every drug load that we miss, people's lives are forever impacted. And in some cases, people can die. That's something that none of us wants to see," he said. Adam Shaw is a politics reporter for Fox News Digital, primarily covering immigration and border security. He can be reached at adam.shaw2@fox.com or on Twitter .

Sagah (centre) being briefed on an app developed by one of the participating teams. – Photo by Sarawak Public Communications Unit KUCHING (Nov 23): Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn has proposed the development of mobile apps and tools to help students with learning loss catch up on their school work. He highlighted that there are students who are still unable to read, write and do simple arithmetics because their learning was affected due to school closures during the Covid-19 pandemic. “(There is) Another group of special needs, those who were involved in learning loss especially during the Covid-19. “Some students are not being able to catch up with school work, going to Primary 2, Primary 3 not knowing how to read and write, let alone to sum up things,” he said at the Girlscode Hackwnd here today. As such, he urged teachers and students involved in coding to create innovative apps and tools to support these students in overcoming these challenges. On a separate note, Sagah is proud of the achievement of Team Agape from SMK Sarikei, which won the Technology Award at the Technovation World Summit in the United States last month. He said this had proven that Sarawakians have the ability to excel on the global stage. “Their tool called Agape With Love designed to help children with special needs learn more effectively is a wonderful example of how we can use technology for good,” he said. On the Girlscode Hackwnd programme, he said it was one of the initiatives supported by his ministry to nurture the next generation of talents in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). At the event, Team Fusion Angel from SJKC Chung Hua Krokop, Miri won the ‘Junior’ Category (Primary School) while Team TPG from SMK Tinggi Kuching won the ‘Senior’ Category (Secondary School).

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Real Madrid’s big stars turned on the style to revive the Spanish giant’s faltering Champions League title defense on Tuesday. Galacticos Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham all scored in a thrilling 3-2 win at Italian league leader Atalanta. But Madrid still had to ride its luck as Mateo Retegui fired over from in front of goal in stoppage time when handed a golden chance to level the game. It was only Madrid’s third win in the competition’s revamped league phase and leaves the 15-time champion in the unseeded playoff positions in 18th place. “It’s a very important win. Not everyone wins here. We suffered and competed. In the Champions League, you have to suffer,” Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said. “It’s still difficult to finish in the top eight, but we have two games left to earn points.” Six-time champion Liverpool leads the way after maintaining its perfect record in Europe this season with a 1-0 win against Girona. Like Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain also picked up a much-needed win, beating Salzburg 3-0 to sit in the last playoff spot in 24th place. Bayer Leverkusen is second after a 1-0 win over Inter Milan, while Aston Villa beat Leipzig 3-2 and is third. The top eight teams advance directly to the round of 16. Positions nine to 24 face a playoff to reach the next phase. Real response After three losses in its opening five games of the league phase, the pressure was mounting on Madrid. Questions were also being asked of Mbappe after his uncertain start since his offseason move from PSG. But he produced a moment of class to fire Madrid 1-0 up after 10 minutes at Gewiss Stadium — controlling the ball with his left foot and then finishing low with his right. It was the 25-year-old Mbappe's 50th Champions League goal . Lionel Messi is the only player to have reached that number at a younger age. Mbappe was substituted off before halftime with an apparent physical issue and Charles De Ketelaere leveled the game before the break from the penalty spot. But two goals inside three second-half minutes from Vinicius Junior and Bellingham put Madrid in control. Ademola Lookman's goal made it 3-2, but Madrid survived Retegui's late effort and held on. Salah’s landmark Mohamed Salah’s 50th Champions League goal maintained Liverpool’s perfect record in the competition this season. The Egypt forward struck a 63rd minute penalty to seal the win in Spain that kept Liverpool atop the 36-team league. But even after a sixth straight win for the Merseyside club, head coach Arne Slot was critical of his players in a game that saw goalkeeper Alisson pull off several saves to keep Girona out. “If you ask me about all the six games, I’m really pleased with all the results, I am really pleased with the five (other) games with the way we played. I’m far from pleased about the performance tonight,” he said. Salah’s goal was his 16th in 22 appearances overall this season. Girona was 30th with just one win from six games. “I almost feel sorry for them because they deserved so much more in this Champions League campaign than the three points they have until now. But we have an incredible goalkeeper,” said Slot, whose team also leads the Premier League. Liverpool’s two remaining games are against Lille at home and PSV Eindhoven away in January. U.S. international Christian Pulisic is the only player to have scored against Liverpool in this season’s Champions League in a 3-1 loss for Milan in September. Bayern rout Bayern Munich routed Shakhtar Donetsk 5-1 to move into the automatic qualifying positions for the round of 16. Michael Olise scored a wonderful solo goal by dribbling past a host of players for his first of two in the game. Bayern's win came after going 1-0 down inside five minutes to a goal from Brazilian winger Kevin. PSG fightback PSG is not done yet. A miserable start to the league phase saw the French giant pick up just four points from five games as it adjusted tp life without stars like Mbappe, Messi and Neymar, who have all departed in the past two seasons. But victory at Salzburg moved PSG up into the playoff positions. Goncalo Ramos, Nuno Mendes and Desire Doue all scored. Leverkusen rising Leverkusen is back on a roll after struggling to repeat the success of last season's stunning German league and cup double. It's now six straight wins in all competitions, with Nordi Mukiele's 90th minute goal securing victory against Inter and moving Leverkusen into second on 13 points — five behind Liverpool. Villa, Inter and Brest are all on 13 points as well. Inter dropped to fourth after conceding for the first time in this season's competition. Villa is third after its own resurgence in form. Victory against Leipzig was its third in a row after an eight-game winless run. Brest is one of this season’s surprise packages on its Champions League debut and is fifth after beating PSV Eindhoven 1-0. Sporting Lisbon, in 12th, couldn’t build on taking a third-minute lead at Club Brugge — losing 2-1 in Belgium. Brugge is 14th. Dinamo Zagreb drew 0-0 with Celtic and both teams remain in the playoff positions. ___ James Robson is at https://twitter.com/jamesalanrobson ___ AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer James Robson, The Associated PressThe pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organization, Afenifere, has enjoined the parties and the general public, to allow the courts to do justice in the determination of the criminal defamation charges brought by the Nigeria Police against Mr Dele Farotimi, a legal practitioner, pursuant to the complaint lodged by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and elder statesman, Chief Afe Babalola. Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, had considered aspects of the 104-page book, ‘Nigeria and its Criminal Justice’ authored by Farotimi, as defaming him and petitioned the Police to take action. The petitioner lives in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, while the author, Farotimi, lives in Lagos. The petitioner is of the view that the book can be read anywhere in the world, including Ekiti State where he resides. According to the National Publicity Secretary of the body, Comrade Jare Ajayi, “The legal system provides an opportunity for parties in a dispute to prove their cases. Afenifere is of the strong opinion that the interests of both parties and the general public must be protected and justice dispensed fairly.” He added that “the court is in the best position to determine how these interests are protected, and to ensure that the prosecution is conducted in a manner that better serves the interest of justice.” Afenifere encourages all parties to avoid statements and actions that may lead to a breach of peace while calling on the government to ensure a total observance of the rule of law. Afenifere is of the view that the appropriate forum to determine whose rights have been breached and how, is the court of law as established by our constitution. Meaning that the matter is presently where it ought to be, to enable all parties to prove their case. Accordingly, “we enjoin all parties to conduct themselves in total submission to and respect for the rule of law”, the spokesman added. While looking forward to the judiciary dispensing justice without fear or favour, Afenifere appeals to everyone, including the parties that are directly involved, to resist the temptation of heightening tension.new york baccarat hotel 。

This year, scientists were able to pull back the curtain on mysteries surrounding figures across history, both known and unknown, to reveal more about their unique stories. In some cases, analysis of ancient DNA helped fill knowledge gaps and change preconceived notions. A prime example is how aDNA research is reframing the way people understand the archaeological site of Pompeii, which remains trapped beneath a layer of ash thousands of years after Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in AD 79 doomed the Roman town. Genetic traces collected from the bones of victims showed that what was once considered to be a mother holding her son in their final moments was an unrelated adult male who likely offered comfort to a child before they perished, and they challenged other long-held assumptions. Here are some of the ways science sparked a new understanding of historical figures in 2024, and in some cases, led to more mysteries that have yet to be untangled. The fragmented skull of "Vittrup Man" is on display at Denmark's Vendsyssel Historical Museum. (Stephen Freiheit via CNN Newsource) Unmasking the unknown A detailed analysis of tooth enamel, tartar and bone collagen helped researchers uncover details about “Vittrup Man,” a Stone Age migrant who died violently in a swamp in northwest Denmark about 5,200 years ago. His remains, recovered from a peat bog in Vittrup, Denmark, in 1915, were found alongside a wooden club that was likely used to beat him over the head. But little else was known about him. Using cutting-edge analytical methods, Anders Fischer, project researcher in the department of historical studies at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, and his colleagues set out to “find the individual behind the bone” and tell the story of the oldest known immigrant in Denmark’s history . Vittrup Man grew up along the Scandinavian coast and belonged to a hunter-gatherer community, enjoying a diet of fish, seals and whales. But his life changed drastically in his late teens when he made the move to Denmark and shifted to a farmer’s diet, eating sheep and goat. He died between the ages of 30 and 40. Vittrup Man may have been killed as a sacrifice, or perhaps he was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. But Fischer found the use of multiple techniques to uncover aspects of his identity gratifying. “In the Vittrup case we meet a genuine first-generation immigrant and can follow his remarkable geographic and dietary transition from northern to southern Scandinavia and from a fisher-hunter-gatherer to a farmer way of life,” he said. Researchers first excavated the remains of a skeletal torso — known as "Well-man" — from a well at a Norwegian castle in 1938. (The Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage via CNN Newsource) Norse saga's 'Well-man' unearthed Separately, researchers were able to connect the identity of a skeleton found in a castle well to a passage from an 800-year-old Norse text . The Sverris saga, which related the story of the real-life King Sverre Sigurdsson, includes a description of an invading army tossing the body of a dead man down a well at Norway’s Sverresborg castle in 1197 in a likely attempt to poison the water supply. A team of scientists recently studied bones uncovered in the castle’s well in 1938. Using radiocarbon dating, the researchers determined that the remains were about 900 years old. Genetic sequencing of tooth samples laid bare that “Well-man” had a medium skin tone, blue eyes, and light brown or blond hair. And in a twist, his genetics couldn’t be traced to the local population. “The biggest surprise for all of us was that the Well-man did not come from the local population, but rather that his ancestry traces back to a specific region in southern Norway. That suggests the sieging army threw one of their own dead into the well,” study coauthor Michael D. Martin, a professor in the department of natural history at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology’s University Museum in Trondheim, said in October. Debunking a 'lost prince' Improvements in molecular genetics over nearly two decades have helped researchers get to the bottom of a longstanding historical puzzle of a so-called “lost prince” who appeared seemingly out of nowhere in mid-19th century Germany. For 200 years, there was speculation that an enigmatic man named Kaspar Hauser was secretly a member of German royalty. When he was found wandering without identification in Nuremberg in May 1828 at the age of 16, Hauser was barely able to communicate with those questioning him. A story about Hauser being a kidnapped prince , taken from the royal family of Baden in what’s now southwest Germany, spread like wildfire. There have been multiple studies of genetic data taken from items that belonged to Hauser, but the conflicting results led to a stalemate with no answers. This year, researchers conducted a new analysis of Hauser’s hair samples and were able to prove that his mitochondrial DNA, or genetic code passed down on the maternal side, did not match the mitochondrial DNA from the Baden family. Disproving the royal hoax may have solved one mystery, but another one has taken its place. Just who was this man? As his tombstone reads, Hauser remains “the riddle of his time.” Locks of Beethoven's hair were studied to uncover new details about the composer's health. (Martin Meissner/AP via CNN Newsource) An ailing, tortured composer Classical composer Ludwig van Beethoven died at 56 in 1827 after a lifetime of ailments including deafness, liver disease and gastrointestinal complaints. The composer expressed his wish that his ailments be studied and shared so “as far as possible at least the world will be reconciled to me after my death.” In May, researchers published a study showing high levels of lead detected in authenticated locks of Beethoven’s hair and suggested the composer had lead poisoning, which may have contributed to his recurring health woes. The findings built on previous revelations after Beethoven’s genome was made publicly available to investigate the complicated nuances of his health. In addition to lead, Beethoven’s locks also contained increased amounts of arsenic and mercury — but how did they get there? The substances were likely from an accumulation of a lifetime diet of fish from the polluted Danube River and plumbed wine, which was sweetened and preserved with lead. The new findings add to a better understanding of the composer as well as the complex, sweeping symphonies he left behind that orchestras still play around the world. “People say, ‘The music is the music, why do we need to know about any of this stuff?’ But in Beethoven’s life, there is a connection between his suffering and the music,” William Meredith, Beethoven scholar and study coauthor, said in May. DNA analysis of human remains found at the site of a church built in 1608 in the colonial settlement of Jamestown, Virginia, suggest the men are kinsmen of the colony’s first governor, Thomas West. (Jamestown Rediscovery Foundation (Preservation Virginia) via CNN Newsource) Colonial secrets and scandals A study of skeletal remains using new DNA analysis techniques shed light on the fate of family members of the first U.S. president, George Washington, in March. Washington’s younger brother Samuel, who died in 1781, and 19 other members of the family were buried in a cemetery at Samuel’s estate near Charles Town, West Virginia. But some of the graves were unmarked, most likely to prevent grave robbing, Courtney L. Cavagnino, a research scientist with the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System’s Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory, told CNN in March. Cavagnino led a team that studied remains excavated from the cemetery in 1999, identifying two of Samuel’s grandsons as well as their mother. The study team carried out the excavations to find Samuel’s final resting place, but the whereabouts of his grave remain a mystery . However, the techniques used in the study could be employed to identify unknown remains of those who have served in the military, going as far back as World War II. Meanwhile, a separate investigation of unmarked graves found at the British settlement of Jamestown, Virginia, revealed a long-hidden scandal within the family of the colony’s first governor, Thomas West. Researchers analyzed DNA from two male skeletons within the graves, and both men were related to West through a shared maternal lineage. One of the men, Capt. William West, was born to West’s spinster aunt, Elizabeth — and illegitimate. Details of West’s birth were deliberately removed from the family’s genealogical records at the time, researchers found, suggesting that the secret of his true parentage is what inspired him to set sail across the Atlantic Ocean and join the colony. Astronomer Johannes Kepler made sketches of sunspots that were published in his 1609 book "Phaenomenon Singulare Seu Mercurius In Sole." (Johannes Kepler via CNN Newsource) Inside the minds (and labs) of famed astronomers Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe is associated with celestial discoveries during the 16th century. But he was also an alchemist devoted to brewing secret medicines for elite clients, such as Rudolf II, the Holy Roman emperor. Renaissance alchemists kept their work covert, and few alchemical recipes have survived to modern times. Although Brahe’s alchemical lab, located beneath his castle residence and observatory Uraniborg, was destroyed after his death, researchers carried out a chemical analysis of glass and pottery shards recovered from the site. The analysis detected elements such as nickel, copper, zinc, tin, mercury, gold, lead and a big surprise: tungsten, which hadn’t even been described at the time . It’s possible that Brahe isolated it from a mineral without realizing it, but the discovery raises new questions about his secretive work. Separately, centuries after German astronomer Johannes Kepler made sketches of sunspots in 1607 from his observations of the sun’s surface, the pioneering drawings helped scientists piece together the history of the sun’s solar cycle. While each cycle of waxing and waning solar activity typically takes about 11 years, there have been times when the sun behaved differently than expected. And Kepler’s long-forgotten drawings , made before the advent of telescopes, were dusted off this year when scientists analyzed them to learn more about the Maunder Minimum, a period of extremely weak and abnormal solar cycles between 1645 and 1715. Kepler’s drawings were made using a camera obscura, a device that utilized a small hole in the wall of the instrument to project the sun’s image on a sheet of paper. His sketches captured sunspots, which helped astronomers determine that the solar cycles were still occurring as expected when Kepler observed them, rather than lasting for abnormally long amounts of time as previously believed. Brahe and Kepler, along with Sir Isaac Newton and Galileo Galilei, were giants who replaced the medieval view of the world with a modern one, said Kaare Lund Rasmussen, lead author of the Brahe study and a professor emeritus in the department of physics, chemistry and pharmacy at the University of Southern Denmark. And this year, both Brahe and Kepler’s centuries-old work have contributed new pieces that help scientists reconstruct the puzzles of the past.Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite chip made waves before its debut because of rumored promises of high performance and lengthy battery life for laptops. That hype stuck around after the chip lineup debuted in June because Qualcomm actually delivered an incredibly strong Windows-on- experience that rivals that of ’s MacBooks. One of the best examples of the Snapdragon X Elite’s greatness is the Laptop 7. In our , the laptop earned a perfect score, thanks in large part to its stellar performance and near 16-hour battery life — both of which are a direct result of the Snapdragon X Elite chip. There are still a few , but there’s no denying the Snapdragon X Elite chip has finally propelled Windows laptops into a competitive space with MacBooks, something x86-based chips from and have failed to do for years. But what about in the desktop PC world? Is there a chance Qualcomm desktop CPUs could outshine those of AMD and Intel in 2025? Let’s talk about it. Qualcomm’s current Arm-based chips are impressive in multiple ways The Snapdragon X Elite chips available now (and even Snapdragon X Plus variants, too) are crushing the competition when it comes to performance power. Our sister site compared Geekbench 6 performance scores for Snapdragon X Elite chips against chips from Intel and AMD, and found that the X Elite outperformed its competitors by 18 - 25%. That said, we’re talking about performance in laptops specifically. What’s most impressive about Qualcomm’s X Elite chips is that they’re able to perform so well despite also boasting leading battery life, something that only matters for laptops. That’s not to say desktop PCs don’t need to be efficient, but it’s much more of a concern for laptops because of their mobile nature. Qualcomm was supposed to release a Snapdragon-powered mini PC in June, but the company in October because it did not meet Qualcomm’s “usual standards of excellence.” One said this little device “could revolutionize the Mini PC market,” and many people seem to agree. It’s unfortunate we didn’t get more of a chance to compare it to other mini PCs performance-wise, but it’s clear Qualcomm has future desktop PC plans in store. According to , Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon said, “You’re going to see us with a lot of designs on desktops, mini desktops, and eventually, you won’t be surprised of us still thinking about high-performance desktop. We are on this journey. As I said, we’re here to stay.” We know Qualcomm is actively working on desktop CPU options, but info on how many cores its desktop CPUs may have, clock speed, or any other specifics regarding its architecture is pretty much nonexistent right now. If Qualcomm succeeds in creating and selling a viable desktop CPU, in either a full tower or a mini PC, I think it would only become the first pick for those looking for the most affordable desktop option that promises decent performance, especially businesses looking for cheap PCs. In terms of more powerful, gaming-capable desktop PCs and DIY PCs, I think AMD and Intel will still be the preferred brands in 2025. AMD and Intel are so established that Qualcomm might not make a dent in the space If you’re building a PC today, you’ll likely be picking between a CPU from Intel or AMD. The companies have flip-flopped over the years when it comes to which is better in terms of price and performance, but those two brands have established themselves as the brands in the world. I don’t see Qualcomm shaking that up in 2025. Right now, AMD is the go-to pick if you’re building a gaming PC and Intel is the choice for those looking for peak productivity performance. The only way I see Qualcomm elbowing its way into competition against AMD and Intel is if it markets its desktop chips as “the most affordable.” Before it was canceled, one of the most attractive qualities of the Snapdragon X Elite-powered mini PC was its $899 price. If Qualcomm could replicate that pricepoint in pre-built desktop PCs or standalone CPUs for DIY-ers, that’d be the move to make. Plus, for gamers, the incompatibility issues with Windows-on-Arm will probably still be too great in 2025. Granted, at 30-35fps smoothly, but we can only speculate as to how well it may perform when mixed with a discrete GPU in a desktop build. It’s entirely possible Qualcomm could craft a desktop CPU capable of at least 60fps in most games, but people would need to see this in action via reviews and hands-on experiences before being convinced to buy. And even then, it would likely have to be more affordable than the to be worth it for most people. A new competitor might overshadow Qualcomm In addition to the struggles Qualcomm already faces going up against Intel and AMD, a new Windows-on-Arm competitor may also throw a wrench into the company’s plans. Established powerhouse in the PC space . Considering has already gained trust from many PC builders as a reliable, go-to option for the , the company would have a leg up over Qualcomm when it comes to selling an Arm chip as a smarter pick over an x86 chip from AMD or Intel. Most rumors suggest Nvidia is working on a mobile SoC that would combine a CPU, GPU, and possibly NPU, to compete with Qualcomm in the laptop space. But seeing as Nvidia already has rapport with PC builders, it seems like a no-brainer that the company would also develop Arm chips for desktop PCs as well. Right now, Qualcomm has the unique advantage of being the only chipmaker in demand for Windows-on-Arm laptops. With Nvidia in the mix—and possibly AMD as well, if a recent bears out—Qualcomm would have more to prove. Ultimately, the success of both Qualcomm’s and Nvidia’s future Arm-based desktop CPUs will be based on accompanying software. Both companies may be able to make powerful chips, but if Windows doesn’t mesh well with them, they won’t be an optimal choice for anyone over x86-based chips from AMD and Intel. Right now, there’s a lot of potential for future desktop CPUs from Qualcomm and Nvidia. But will that potential be fully realized in 2025 to the point that it pushes AMD and Intel chips aside? Personally, I don’t think so.New AI leader outshines Magnificent 7 stocks in top funds list

Real Madrid’s big stars turned on the style to revive the Spanish giant’s faltering Champions League title defense on Tuesday. Galacticos Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham all scored in a thrilling 3-2 win at Italian league leader Atalanta. But Madrid still had to ride its luck as Mateo Retegui fired over from in front of goal in stoppage time when handed a golden chance to level the game. It was only Madrid’s third win in the competition’s revamped league phase and leaves the 15-time champion in the unseeded playoff positions in 18th place. “It’s a very important win. Not everyone wins here. We suffered and competed. In the Champions League, you have to suffer,” Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said. “It’s still difficult to finish in the top eight, but we have two games left to earn points.” Six-time champion Liverpool leads the way after maintaining its perfect record in Europe this season with a 1-0 win against Girona. Like Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain also picked up a much-needed win, beating Salzburg 3-0 to sit in the last playoff spot in 24th place. Bayer Leverkusen is second after a 1-0 win over Inter Milan, while Aston Villa beat Leipzig 3-2 and is third. The top eight teams advance directly to the round of 16. Positions nine to 24 face a playoff to reach the next phase. Real response After three losses in its opening five games of the league phase, the pressure was mounting on Madrid. Questions were also being asked of Mbappe after his uncertain start since his offseason move from PSG. But he produced a moment of class to fire Madrid 1-0 up after 10 minutes at Gewiss Stadium — controlling the ball with his left foot and then finishing low with his right. It was the 25-year-old Mbappe's 50th Champions League goal . Lionel Messi is the only player to have reached that number at a younger age. Mbappe was substituted off before halftime with an apparent physical issue and Charles De Ketelaere leveled the game before the break from the penalty spot. But two goals inside three second-half minutes from Vinicius Junior and Bellingham put Madrid in control. Ademola Lookman's goal made it 3-2, but Madrid survived Retegui's late effort and held on. Salah’s landmark Mohamed Salah’s 50th Champions League goal maintained Liverpool’s perfect record in the competition this season. The Egypt forward struck a 63rd minute penalty to seal the win in Spain that kept Liverpool atop the 36-team league. But even after a sixth straight win for the Merseyside club, head coach Arne Slot was critical of his players in a game that saw goalkeeper Alisson pull off several saves to keep Girona out. “If you ask me about all the six games, I’m really pleased with all the results, I am really pleased with the five (other) games with the way we played. I’m far from pleased about the performance tonight,” he said. Salah’s goal was his 16th in 22 appearances overall this season. Girona was 30th with just one win from six games. “I almost feel sorry for them because they deserved so much more in this Champions League campaign than the three points they have until now. But we have an incredible goalkeeper,” said Slot, whose team also leads the Premier League. Liverpool’s two remaining games are against Lille at home and PSV Eindhoven away in January. U.S. international Christian Pulisic is the only player to have scored against Liverpool in this season’s Champions League in a 3-1 loss for Milan in September. Bayern rout Bayern Munich routed Shakhtar Donetsk 5-1 to move into the automatic qualifying positions for the round of 16. Michael Olise scored a wonderful solo goal by dribbling past a host of players for his first of two in the game. Bayern's win came after going 1-0 down inside five minutes to a goal from Brazilian winger Kevin. PSG fightback PSG is not done yet. A miserable start to the league phase saw the French giant pick up just four points from five games as it adjusted tp life without stars like Mbappe, Messi and Neymar, who have all departed in the past two seasons. But victory at Salzburg moved PSG up into the playoff positions. Goncalo Ramos, Nuno Mendes and Desire Doue all scored. Leverkusen rising Leverkusen is back on a roll after struggling to repeat the success of last season's stunning German league and cup double. It's now six straight wins in all competitions, with Nordi Mukiele's 90th minute goal securing victory against Inter and moving Leverkusen into second on 13 points — five behind Liverpool. Villa, Inter and Brest are all on 13 points as well. Inter dropped to fourth after conceding for the first time in this season's competition. Villa is third after its own resurgence in form. Victory against Leipzig was its third in a row after an eight-game winless run. Brest is one of this season’s surprise packages on its Champions League debut and is fifth after beating PSV Eindhoven 1-0. Sporting Lisbon, in 12th, couldn’t build on taking a third-minute lead at Club Brugge — losing 2-1 in Belgium. Brugge is 14th. Dinamo Zagreb drew 0-0 with Celtic and both teams remain in the playoff positions. ___ James Robson is at https://twitter.com/jamesalanrobson ___ AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer James Robson, The Associated PressDemocrat Bob Casey concedes to Republican David McCormick in Pennsylvania Senate contest

The Trade Desk’s Ashton De Santis: Upfronts Uncovered – Measurement and accountability take centre stageTrump names Andrew Ferguson as head of Federal Trade Commission to replace Lina Khan

No. 1 Oregon Ducks vs. No. 3 Penn State: Big Ten championship game score updates, live stream, odds, time, TV channel, how to watch onlineSportswatch Daily Listings

HOUSTON, Nov. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Weatherford International plc (NASDAQ: WFRD) (“Weatherford” or the “Company”) will host a conference call on Thursday, February 6, 2025 to discuss the Company’s results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024. The conference call will begin at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time (7:30 a.m. Central Time). Prior to the conference call, the Company will issue a press release announcing the results and the associated presentation slides will be uploaded to the investor relations section of the Weatherford website. Listeners can participate in the conference call via a live webcast . Alternatively, the conference call can be accessed by registering in advance (which will provide a PIN for immediate access) or by dialing +1 877-328-5344 (within the U.S.) or +1 412-902-6762 (outside of the U.S.) and asking for the Weatherford conference call. Participants should log in or dial in approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the call. A telephonic replay of the conference call will be available until February 20, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. To access the replay, please dial +1 877-344-7529 (within the U.S.) or +1 412-317-0088 (outside of the U.S.) and reference conference number 9530137. About Weatherford Weatherford delivers innovative energy services that integrate proven technologies with advanced digitalization to create sustainable offerings for maximized value and return on investment. Our world-class experts partner with customers to optimize their resources and realize the full potential of their assets. Operators choose us for strategic solutions that add efficiency, flexibility, and responsibility to any energy operation. The Company conducts business in approximately 75 countries and has approximately 19,000 team members representing more than 110 nationalities and 330 operating locations. Visit weatherford.com for more information and connect with us on social media. Contact: Luke Lemoine Weatherford Investor Relations +1 713-836-7777 investor.relations@weatherford.comDilip Kumar and Saira Banu remain one of the most cherished couples in Indian cinema, captivating audiences with their timeless love story since the 1960s. Their bond began with admiration and blossomed into a lifelong commitment, overcoming a 22-year age gap and creating a legacy of devotion. Saira Banu’s love for Dilip Kumar began when she was just 8 years old. Inspired by his performance in Aan (1952), she often dreamed of becoming a leading actress like her mother, Naseem Banu, and marrying her idol. Her dreams came true on October 11, 1966, when she married the legendary actor at the age of 22. In a heartfelt social media post, Saira Banu recalled how Dilip Kumar proposed. “On one of the magical evenings, he popped the question, ‘Will you marry me?’” she wrote. She described her transition from an adoring fan to a devoted wife, emphasizing Dilip Kumar’s unique qualities and his aura of understated elegance. A post shared by Saira Banu Khan (@sairabanu) Their wedding was a grand affair, attended by Bollywood legends like Raj Kapoor, Raaj Kumar, and Dev Anand. Saira Banu dazzled in a red ensemble adorned with flowers, while Dilip Kumar wore a white sherwani. Videos from the event captured the couple’s joy, with moments of laughter and affection, including scenes of them feeding each other. A post shared by Bollywood Nostalgia (@bollywood.nostalgia) The couple remained inseparable until Dilip Kumar’s death on July 7, 2021, at the age of 98. His passing left Saira Banu heartbroken. She has often expressed her grief over losing her soulmate, highlighting the depth of their love and the void left in her life. Also Read: Stranger Things 5: Which Of Our Beloved Characters Might Face An Unfortunate Ending? Their enduring love story continues to inspire generations, embodying romance, dedication, and resilience. Written By News24 DeskOpposition fighters are at Damascus’ gates. Who are they and what now?

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Cam Skattebo scored three touchdowns on Saturday for Arizona State , giving him three chances to send the same message. Skattebo broke out the Heisman Trophy pose after each of his two rushing touchdowns and receiving touchdown in the No. 13 Sun Devils ' 45-19 victory over No. 16 Iowa State to win the Big 12 Conference championship game and almost certainly earn a spot in the 12-team College Football Playoff . REQUIRED READING: Big 12 championship game rushing record: Where Arizona State's Cam Skattebo falls Following the game, Skattebo wanted to deliver a message about how he feels valued around college football: "Nobody respects the fact that I'm the best running back in the country," Skattebo said at his postgame news conference. "I am going to stand on that. If people want to disrespect that, I am going to keep going and I am going to keep proving people wrong." Skattebo had 16 rushes for 170 yards and two scores on the ground and added two catches for 38 yards and a third touchdown. He had runs of 53 and 47 yards in the first half. He had 10 rushes for 140 yards, with 90 coming after contact, in the first half. If the game had not gotten out of hand, he could have threatened Darren Sproles' 2003 Big 12 championship game rushing record of 235 yards. Skattebo has rushed 263 times on the season for 1,538 yards and 19 touchdowns. He has also added 37 catches for 506 yards and three touchdowns. Boise State's Ashton Jeanty, one of the frontrunners for the Heisman Trophy and regarded as the best college football running back this year, has 344 carries for 2,497 yards and 29 touchdowns. Skattebo believes he compares favorably to Jeanty. "Whatever NFL team takes me is going to get a gem," Skattebo said. "And I am going to give it everything I got for them. No matter winning the Heisman or losing the Heisman, I should be in that situation."Federal appeals court upholds law requiring sale or ban of TikTok in the US A federal appeals court panel on Friday unanimously upheld a law that could lead to a ban on TikTok as soon as next month, handing a resounding defeat to the popular social media platform as it fights for its survival in the U.S. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit ruled that the law - which requires TikTok to break ties with its China-based parent company ByteDance or be banned by mid-January — is constitutional, rebuffing TikTok’s challenge that the statute ran afoul of the First Amendment and unfairly targeted the platform. TikTok and ByteDance — another plaintiff in the lawsuit — are expected to appeal to the Supreme Court. Executive of Tyler Perry Studios dies when plane he was piloting crashes in Florida ATLANTA (AP) — The president of Atlanta-based Tyler Perry Studios has died when the small plane he was piloting crashed on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The studio confirmed on Saturday that Steve Mensch, its 62-year-old president and general manager, had died Friday. The crash happened in Homosassa, about 60 miles north of Tampa. Photos from the scene show the plane having come to rest upside down on a road. Mensch helped advocate for Georgia’s film tax credit of more than $1 billion a year. Perry hired Mensch to run his namesake studio in 2016. Mensch died as Perry released his war drama, “The Six Triple Eight." The film was shot at the Atlanta studio. US added a strong 227,000 jobs in November in bounce-back from October slowdown WASHINGTON (AP) — America’s job market rebounded in November, adding 227,000 workers in a solid recovery from the previous month, when the effects of strikes and hurricanes had sharply diminished employers’ payrolls. Last month’s hiring growth was up considerably from a meager gain of 36,000 jobs in October. The government also revised up its estimate of job growth in September and October by a combined 56,000. Friday’s report also showed that the unemployment rate ticked up from 4.1% in October to a still-low 4.2%. The November data provided the latest evidence that the U.S. job market remains durable even though it has lost significant momentum from the 2021-2023 hiring boom, when the economy was rebounding from the pandemic recession. Stock market today: Wall Street hits more records following a just-right jobs report NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks rose to records after data suggested the job market remains solid enough to keep the economy going, but not so strong that it raises immediate worries about inflation. The S&P 500 climbed 0.2%, just enough top the all-time high set on Wednesday, as it closed a third straight winning week in what looks to be one of its best years since the 2000 dot-com bust. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.3%, while the Nasdaq composite climbed 0.8% to set its own record. Treasury yields eased after the jobs report showed stronger hiring than expected but also an uptick in the unemployment rate. Killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO spotlights complex challenge companies face in protecting top brass NEW YORK (AP) — In an era when online anger and social tensions are increasingly directed at the businesses consumers count on, Meta last year spent $24.4 million to surround CEO Mark Zuckerberg with security. But the fatal shooting this week of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson while walking alone on a New York City sidewalk has put a spotlight on the widely varied approaches companies take to protect their leaders against threats. And experts say the task of evaluating threats against executives and taking action to protect them is getting more difficult. One of the primary worries are loners whose rantings online are fed by others who are like-minded. It’s up to corporate security analysts to decide what represents a real threat. Days after gunman killed UnitedHealthcare's CEO, police push to ID him and FBI offers reward NEW YORK (AP) — Nearly four days after the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, police still do not know the gunman’s name or whereabouts or have a motive for the killing. But they have made some progress in their investigation into Wednesday's killing of the leader of the largest U.S. health insurer, including that the gunman likely left New York City on a bus soon after fleeing the scene. The also found that the gunman left something behind: a backpack that was discovered in Central Park. Police are working with the FBI, which on Friday night announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. USDA orders nationwide testing of milk for bird flu to halt the virus The U.S. government has ordered testing of the nation’s milk supply for bird flu to better monitor the spread of the virus in dairy cows. The Agriculture Department on Friday said raw or unpasteurized milk from dairy farms and processors nationwide must be tested on request starting Dec. 16. Testing will begin in six states — California, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, Oregon and Pennsylvania. The move is aimed at eliminating the virus, which has infected more than 700 dairy herds in 15 states. Words on ammo in CEO shooting echo common phrase on insurer tactics: Delay, deny, defend A message left at the scene of an insurance executive’s fatal shooting echoes a phrase commonly used to describe insurer tactics to avoid paying claims. The words “deny,” “defend” and “depose” were written on the ammunition used to kill UnitedHealthcare's CEO. That's according to two officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Thursday. The words are similar to the phrase “delay, deny, defend.” That's how attorneys describe insurers denying services and payment, and the title of a 2010 book critical of the industry. Police haven’t officially commented on the words. But Thompson’s shooting and the messages on the ammunition have sparked outrage on social media and elsewhere, reflecting frustration Americans have over the cost and complexity of getting care. Michigan Democrats move to protect reproductive health data before GOP takes control of House LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Democrats in Michigan are pressing to pass reproductive health care legislation before the party loses its majority with the new legislative session next year. A bill to protect digital reproductive health data including data logged on menstrual cycle tracking apps is a Democratic priority as lawmakers meet this month. Democratic women and supporters of the legislation say they are acting with new urgency before President-elect Donald Trump takes office because they don't believe his campaign promise to leave abortion to the states. The rush is also a reaction to Republicans taking control of the state House in January. Democrats kept control of the state Senate in the November election. Japan's Nippon Steel sets sights on a growing overseas market in its bid to acquire US Steel KASHIMA, Japan (AP) — The signs at Nippon Steel read: “The world through steel,” underlining why Japan’s top steelmaker is pursuing its $15 billion bid to acquire U.S. Steel. Japan's domestic market isn't growing, so Nippon Steel has its eyes on India, Southeast Asia and the United States, where populations are still growing. Nippon Steel gave reporters a tour of one of its plants in Japan on Friday. The bid for U.S. Steet is opposed by President-elect Donald Trump, President Joe Biden and American steelworkers. If the deal goes through, U.S. Steel will keep its name and its headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but become subsidiary of Nippon Steel.

Opposition fighters are closing in on Syria’s capital in a swiftly developing crisis that has taken much of the world by surprise. Syria’s army has abandoned key cities with little resistance. Nervous residents in Damascus describe security forces on the streets. The state news agency has been forced to deny rumors that President Bashar Assad has left the country. Who are these opposition fighters ? If they enter Damascus after taking some of Syria’s largest cities , what then? Here’s a look at the stunning reversal of fortune for Assad and his government in just the past 10 days, and what might lie ahead as Syria’s 13-year civil war reignites . The aim? Overthrow the government This is the first time that opposition forces have reached the outskirts of the Syrian capital since 2018, when the country’s troops recaptured the area following a yearslong siege. The approaching fighters are led by the most powerful insurgent group in Syria, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham , or HTS, along with an umbrella group of Turkish-backed Syrian militias called the Syrian National Army. Both have been entrenched in the northwest. They launched the shock offensive on Nov. 27 with gunmen capturing Aleppo, Syria’s largest city, and the central city of Hama, the fourth largest. The HTS has its origins in al-Qaida and is considered a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the United Nations. But the group said in recent years it cut ties with al-Qaida, and experts say HTS has sought to remake itself in recent years by focusing on promoting civilian government in their territory as well as military action. HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani told CNN in an exclusive interview Thursday from Syria that the aim of the offensive is to overthrow Assad’s government. Possible rifts ahead The HTS and Syrian National Army have been allies at times and rivals at times, and their aims might diverge. The Turkish-backed militias also have an interest in creating a buffer zone near the Turkish border to keep away Kurdish militants at odds with Ankara. Turkey has been a main backer of the fighters seeking to overthrow Assad but more recently has urged reconciliation, and Turkish officials have strongly rejected claims of any involvement in the current offensive. Whether the HTS and the Syrian National Army will work together if they succeed in overthrowing Assad or turn on each other again is a major question. Others take advantage While the flash offensive against Syria’s government began in the north, armed opposition groups have also mobilized elsewhere. The southern areas of Sweida and Daraa have both been taken locally. Sweida is the heartland of Syria’s Druze religious minority and had been the site of regular anti-government protests even after Assad seemingly consolidated his control over the area. Daraa is a Sunni Muslim area that was widely seen as the cradle of the uprising against Assad’s rule that erupted in 2011. Daraa was recaptured by Syrian government troops in 2018, but rebels remained in some areas. In recent years, Daraa was in a state of uneasy quiet under a Russian-mediated ceasefire deal. And much of Syria’s east is controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces, a Kurdish-led group backed by the United States that in the past has clashed with most other armed groups in the country. Syria’s government now has control of only three of 14 provincial capitals: Damascus, Latakia and Tartus. What’s next? Much depends on Assad’s next moves and his forces’ will to fight the rebels. A commander with the insurgents, Hassan Abdul-Ghani, posted on the Telegram messaging app that opposition forces have started carrying out the “final stage” of their offensive by encircling Damascus. And Syrian troops withdrew Saturday from much of the central city of Homs, Syria’s third largest, according to a pro-government outlet and the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. If that city is captured, the link would be cut between Damascus, Assad’s seat of power, and the coastal region where he enjoys wide support. “Homs to the coastal cities will be a very huge red line politically and socially. Politically, if this line is crossed, then we are talking about the end of the entire Syria, the one that we knew in the past,” said a Damascus resident, Anas Joudeh. Assad appears to be largely on his own as allies Russia and Iran are distracted by other conflicts and the Lebanon-based Hezbollah has been weakened by its war with Israel, now under a fragile ceasefire. The U.N. special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, seeks urgent talks in Geneva to ensure an “orderly political transition,” saying the situation is changing by the minute. He met with foreign ministers and senior diplomats from eight key countries including Saudi Arabia, Russia, Egypt, Turkey and Iran on the sidelines of the Doha Summit. President-elect Donald Trump in his first extensive comments on the developments in Syria said the besieged Assad didn’t deserve U.S. support to stay in power. “THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT,” Trump posted on social media. ___ Associated Press writer Abby Sewell in Beirut contributed.

After institutions for people with disabilities close, graves are at risk of being forgotten

Trump names Andrew Ferguson as head of Federal Trade Commission to replace Lina Khan1 2 3 4 Nashik: BJP came up with another incredible performance in Nashik city, by retaining all three seats. The party has been winning the key seats of Nashik East, West and Central since 2014. Although the sitting BJP MLA from Nashik Central, Devyani Pharande , saw her victory margin reduced by over 10,000 votes compared to 2019, what is significant is that MVA had taken a lead of over 3,000 in this assembly segment during the Nashik Lok Sabha polls held earlier this year. The other two sitting BJP MLAs—Seema Hiray from Nashik West and Rahul Dhikhale from Nashik East—won by over 87,000 and 68,000 votes, respectively. The three MLAs said voters reposed their trust in all them because of the development work they have done. "My opponents tried to create a false narrative about the constituency becoming a hub of drug abuse. But my voters have given my political adversaries a befitting response by helping me win," said Pharande, who won in Nashik Central. tnn Maharashtra Jharkhand Maharashtra Alliance View i Party View Seats: 288 Results Majority: 145 BJP+ 229 MVA 47 OTH 12 Results : 288 / 288 BJP+ WON Jharkhand Alliance View i Party View Seats: 81 Results Majority: 41 INDIA 56 NDA 24 OTH 1 Results : 81 / 81 INDIA WON Source: PValue

Lara Trump will step down as co-chair of the Republican National Committee as she considers a number of potential options with her father-in-law, President-elect Donald Trump , set to return to the White House. Among those possibilities is replacing Florida Sen. Marco Rubio , whom Trump tapped to be the next secretary of state. If Rubio is confirmed, his replacement — who would be chosen by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis — would serve for two years until the next regularly scheduled election in 2026, at which point the seat would be up for election again. “It is something I would seriously consider,” Lara Trump told The Associated Press in an interview. “If I’m being completely transparent, I don’t know exactly what that would look like. And I certainly want to get all of the information possible if that is something that’s real for me. But yeah, I would 100% consider it.” Elected as RNC co-chair in March, Lara Trump was a key player in the Republicans retaking the White House and control of the Senate while maintaining a narrow House majority. What she does next could shape Republican politics, given her elevated political profile and her ties to the incoming president. The idea of placing a Trump family member in the Senate has been lauded in some Republican circles. Among the people pushing for her to replace Rubio is Maye Musk, mother of Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk . “The Senate is an old man’s club. We desperately need a smart, young, outspoken woman who will reveal their secrets,” she posted on X. Lara Trump is 42. Elon Musk, who was with Lara Trump on election night at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, responded to his mother’s post: “Lara Trump is genuinely great.” Led by chairman Michael Whatley and Lara Trump, the RNC invested heavily in recruiting roughly 230,000 volunteers and an army of lawyers for what it called its “election integrity” effort, four years after Donald Trump lost his reelection bid to Democrat Joe Biden, citing false or unproven theories about voter fraud. Outside groups such as Turning Point Action and Musk’s America PAC took a greater responsibility for advertising and get-out-the-vote efforts. While Whatley will remain RNC chairman, Lara Trump said she felt she had accomplished her goals in the co-chair role. “With that big win, I kind of feel like my time is up,” she said. “What I intended to do has been done.” President-elect Donald Trump endorsed RNC Treasurer KC Crosbie to replace Lara Trump as co-chair of the committee on Monday. Story continues below video “As Treasurer, she helped the RNC smash every fundraising record in History, and fortified our Party’s financial foundation. KC has been with me from the very beginning, helping REAL Republicans get elected across the Country, and would be a tremendous Co-Chair of the RNC!” President-elect Trump wrote on Truth Social. Lara Trump praised Musk’s new endeavor, the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE , a nongovernmental task force headed by Musk and and fellow entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy . They’ve been tapped to fire federal workers , cut programs and slash federal regulations as part of Trump’s “Save America” agenda for his second term. “I really don’t think we’ve seen movement like this in our federal government since our country’s founding in many ways,” she said. “And I think if they are successful in what they plan to do, I think it is going to be transformative to America in a great way.” She said she expects a different presidency this time, beginning with the structure of the administration: While Trump’s daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner served as White House advisers in his last administration, Lara Trump said she doesn’t see any family member taking any position in the White House this time around with her father-in-law. “He really wants to get in there and do a good job for the four years, and that’s all he wants to serve,” she said. “Four years, and he’s out.” Lara Trump also says she expects the Republican Party to be more unified than it has ever been. When she became co-chair in May, the Trump campaign and the RNC merged, with staffers fired and positions restructured. She said the result could spell trouble for GOP lawmakers who do not agree with Trump’s agenda. “The whole party has totally shifted and totally changed,” she said. “I think people are feeling a little more bold in coming out with their political views.” This story has been corrected to clarify that Rubio’s Senate seat would be filled until 2026 when an election would be held for the seat. Linderman reported from Baltimore and Mendoza from Santa Cruz, California.PARIS — Hell hath no fury like a driver scorned. Take the traffic-choked French capital as an example, where an attempt to reduce vehicle collisions, gridlock, emissions and noise on a highway encircling Paris has provoked a head-on political crash. The long-simmering dispute over what many see as Paris’s crusade against cars has come to a boil over a controversial decision to slash speed limits on a 35-kilometre highway known as . In some ways, it is the European equivalent of the fight between Toronto, , and the car-friendly Ontario government, which wants to and to ease gridlock. In one lane is Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo. In a measure intended to cut noise, pollution, traffic jams and accidents on the Paris ring road she recently ordered speed limits reduced to 50 km/h from 70 km/h. It’s one step along the path to a more extreme transformation that reimagines the cars-and-concrete highway as a boulevard shared by buses, bikes and bipeds. In the opposite lane is a convoy of irate suburban commuters, motorcyclists, professional drivers like cabbies and truckers, and opposition politicians. They are now charting lawsuits, legislation and political campaigns, arguing that Hidalgo’s anti-car policies have now swerved recklessly across the median line. “What is very different with the 50 km/h (speed limit) compared to the other anti-car measures in Paris is that this affects many more people who did not vote for her, who did not choose her as their representative and who are deeply opposed,” said Alexandra Legendre, a spokesperson with the Drivers’ Defence League, a group that lobbies for the interests of motorists in France. The Paris ring road was built on the site of fortifications erected around the French capital in 1844 and torn down in 1919 at the end of the First World War. More than three decades later, work began on the circular highway intended to liberate drivers from the evils of traffic jams, letting them reach their destinations without having to negotiate the hustle and bustle of central Paris. “In a few days, getting around Paris without meeting a single red light will no longer be a dream,” ahead of the completion of the final section of the loop in 1973. Yet the work had barely been completed when began. Other, more serious problems soon appeared. Noise from the fast-moving cars has long been a nuisance for the 500,000 residents who live next to the highway and is believed to be linked to health problems, such as sleep loss, cardiovascular problems and stress, . And the 1.3 million cars that use it each day are , according to , an agency that tracks air quality in the greater Paris region. Naturally, there are also accidents, albeit very few fatalities, perhaps owing to the highway’s congestion, which keeps daytime speeds to a little over 30 km/h. To tackle these issues, officials have, over the years, installed sound barriers to cut the noise levels. In 2014, reduced the maximum speed on the highway to 70 km/h from 80 — a measure that had positive effects on emissions entering the atmosphere as well as the fluidity of traffic. This was the same year that Hidalgo, a member of France’s Socialist Party, was chosen as mayor and launched what her opponents say has been a frontal attack against cars and drivers. Over a decade in power, she has shut down express lanes on the banks of the Seine River, reduced the number of downtown parking spaces, converted car lanes to bike lanes and pedestrianized city streets. Just recently, her administration designated the central core of downtown a limited traffic zone — barring through traffic by drivers seeking to quickly cut from one end of the city to the other. without an express purpose such as a medical appointment, tickets to a show, or getting to work. Residents have long grumbled about the inconveniences caused by Hidalgo’s car wars. However, when dissipated and she announced that the city would be moving forward with a long-planned cut to the speed limit on the city’s ring road, many saw it as a step too far. This photograph taken on November 11, 2024 shows a sign near the Louvre museum, indicating the limited traffic zone (ZTL), an aera in the central core of the French capital banning vehicles from transiting through it, in Paris. “They’ve put in place a policy where cars are excluded, but there has been nothing to compensate for the absence of cars,” said Séverine Manna, a Paris lawyer . She said city officials haven’t done the necessary studies to back up the new limits. She added that the restrictions have not been accompanied by a more robust public transport system to give people alternative ways to get to and from Paris in a timely manner. “They’re telling people: ‘There are no more cars — get used to it,’ ” Manna said. “We are all ecologists in our souls but there are times when there are realities that are not being heard.” Others have complained that Paris failed to consult with neighbouring municipalities before taking a decision that has a great impact on commuters from the suburbs. A regional elected official, Valérie Pécresse, has deemed the new speed limits “anti-social and ineffective” and urged Hidalgo to instead install sound barriers along the ring road or turn over responsibility for the road to the region. In addition to the war of words, a statistical battle has broken out. The city has started releasing a weekly bulletin showing drops in nighttime noise, traffic jams and accidents — though no significant reduction in emissions. In response, Pécresse ordered her own officials to begin tracking noise, pollution and traffic indicators along the route. The show reductions in every category, including pollution. Paris is hardly alone in wanting to transform its infrastructure to make it safer, greener or more amenable to the people who live and work in its vicinity. New York, Barcelona, Helsinki, Vancouver and many other cities around the world have all questioned the sustainability and uses of highways built for an era when the car was king and the environment was an afterthought. Before opting to the Gardiner Expressway Toronto, too, flirted with the idea of dismantling or burying its main east-to-west highway as a way to reconnect the city with its waterfront. The evangelists of highway transformation see no alternatives. “The question is: can we imagine that our highways remain as they are? We’re in a very deep climate crisis,” said Paul Lecroart, a senior urban planner for the Paris Metropolitan Region. “The question is how can we do things faster.” Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo swims in the Seine, in Paris on July 17, 2024, to demonstrate the river’s cleanliness in advance of hosting Olympic swimming events later that month. Lecroart acknowledges that fear and the inconvenience of adopting new habits plays a big role in the public resistance to such large-scale change. The key to success is to provide ready-made alternatives and demonstrate their benefits. The main one, in Lecroart’s estimation, is “traffic evaporation.” “People give up on movements that are less useful,” he said. The shining example is South Korea, where 80 per cent of automobile traffic disappeared after the mayor of Seoul decided to demolish the six-kilometre , reclaiming and rehabilitating the stream that ran beneath the highway as a public space. In other cities, Lecroart said, traffic dropped between 20 and 25 per cent due to people opting instead for public transport. “They are never forced. We’re in a liberal system where everyone can do what they want. People can take their car downtown, but either we encourage it, (or) we discourage it,” he said. Paris hasn’t completely laid out its long-term vision for , perhaps for fear of raising the ire of its four-wheeled adversaries. But the French capital also has like-minded allies too. In the eastern suburbs, officials have drawn up a rather extreme that ushers motorists into and out of central Paris. It’s a slow-motion transformation that starts with the installation of dedicated public-transit lanes in 2026, continues with lowered speed limits in 2032 and cutting the space for cars by half in 2040. The project concludes in 2050 with a road — one lane moving at 30 km/h in either direction — in something resembling a nature park, surrounded by reclaimed and reforested land, bike paths, and picnic tables. Gaylord Le Chequer, a city councillor in Montreuil, said the initial reaction of residents was surprise and, for some, hostility — the sense that they were being deprived of something or punished. “For us, it’s important not to be seen as punishing people but to demonstrate, going step by step, that the transformations are useful — notably from an environmental perspective — and that they are possible,” he said. “Whether you are right or left ... there is a movement that is growing to say on behalf of the residents who live in proximity to this infrastructure, that we have real problems and so it’s time to act.”Democrats proved they’re not defenders of democracybaccarat 540 scent 。

What Canada’s chief of defence staff says keeps her up at nightThe Metropolitan Magistrate Bandra Court on December 2, directed the Bandra Police to file an FIR against director Ali Abbas Zafar, co-producer Himanshu Mehra, and others for charges including cheating, forgery, and defrauding producer Vashu Bhagnani. The case pertains to allegations made by Bhagnani, the producer of the 2024 multi-starrer film Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. The court instructed the police to register the FIR under Sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy), 406 (criminal breach of trust), 420 (cheating), 465 (forgery), 468 (forgery for the purpose of cheating), 471 (using a forged document as genuine), 500 (defamation), and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code. A post shared by Ali Abbas Zafar (@aliabbaszafar) On September 3, 2024, Vashu Bhagnani filed a complaint with the Bandra Police Station against Ali Abbas Zafar, Himanshu Mehra, and others, accusing them of fraud, forgery, criminal breach of trust, cheating, and misappropriation of crores of rupees by falsifying and forging his signatures during the production of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. However, no action was taken by the police. Subsequently, Bhagnani approached the Bandra Metropolitan Magistrate Court seeking its direction to register the FIR. According to the court's order, Bhagnani signed four films with Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar in February 2021, including the action-comedy Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (B.M.C.M.). In November 2021, Bhagnani approached Ali Abbas Zafar to hire him as the director and writer for the film. Bhagnani alleges that Zafar, with a premeditated plan to defraud him, accepted the offer but conditioned on the appointment of Himanshu Mehra as co-producer and Ekesh, along with other associates, to manage accounts, audits, and related work. Zafar allegedly made these appointments based on false representations. The film's minimum production cost was set at Rs.125 crores, excluding the remuneration of lead actors, to be borne by Bhagnani. Despite these initial agreements, Bhagnani alleges that Zafar and his associates cheated and defrauded him during the film's production and distribution phases. Bhagnani alleges that Zafar demanded high fees immediately after entering the agreement in February 2022 but furnished the film script only in July 2022, breaching the contract. Another thing was part of the film was shot in the UAE, where Zafar and his associates allegedly stayed in costly hotels, ignoring prior arrangements made by Bhagnani, and incurred heavy expenses, violating the agreement. Despite an initial budget of Rs. 125 crores, the production costs escalated to Rs.154 crores due to Zafar and his team's refusal to control expenses. A post shared by Jackky V Bhagnani (@jackkybhagnani) Bhagnani accused Zafar and his associates of violating several other agreements, leading to significant financial losses. Bhagnani claimed that despite approaching the Bandra Police Station with a complaint, no action was taken against Zafar and his team. He subsequently applied with the Metropolitan Magistrate Court, seeking a direction to register the offence and investigate the matter under the law. The Metropolitan Magistrate Court, after reviewing the allegations and evidence, directed the Bandra Police to register the FIR against Ali Abbas Zafar and his associates.The Washington Commanders made the Dallas Cowboys look like the Baltimore Ravens in Sunday’s 34-26 loss. Kicker Austin Seibert, who had provided perfect stability to Washington’s kicking game, missed a point after the Commanders went the distance to bring the game to a tie in the last seconds of Sunday’s game. In a game where no one could find a touchdown in three quarters, both teams combined to score 41 points in the fourth quarter in what will be one of the heart-wrenching games in Northwest Stadium history. Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels threw for 275 yards with two touchdowns, along with a pair of interceptions. Running back Austin Ekeler carried Sunday’s run game with nine for only 22 yards. Wide receiver Terry McLaurin caught five for 102 yards and one touchdown. In a week where the Pittsburgh Steelers, who lead the AFC North, lost to the Cleveland Browns, ranked last in that same division, Sunday’s loss came just as shocking. It was also a reunion for Commanders head coach Dan Quinn, who served as the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator for three years. On Sunday, however, he would watch his defense falter, and the Dallas defense would own the day. Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush threw for 247 yards and two touchdowns. Receiver CeeDee Lamb caught ten for 67 yards. Commanders’ Ugly First Half: All Defense, No Conversions The Commanders punted three times in the first half , along with a missed 51-yarder by a returning Seibert . He finished the first half 1-1, making from 41 yards early in the first. The Cowboys had a blocked field goal, a missed field goal, and a fumble. However, they did finish the half with one successful field goal. In addition to the Commanders’ special teams victories in the first half, there were no conversions on any of those for points. Add in the three punts and the fumble, and you’d think the Commanders could have run away with the game , but that was not the case. Daniels was on the run the entire first half, completing nine for 57 yards. The good news is he’s also back on the rush, carrying three for 25 yards. Not much, but to see Daniels carrying a few was a good sign. The past couple of weeks after his rib injury, Daniels has been very conservative on taking off with the ball but looked comfortable Sunday. Running back Brian Robinson Jr. still had the most carries in the first half with five but only rushed for 25 yards. Second Half Brings More Action, Ends In Heartbreak Daniels set the pace for the second half with a 10-play drive comprised of three good third-down conversions that resulted in a 17-yard run-in by the rookie. The Cowboys responded with a successful drive of their own, going eight plays for 80 yards to finish with a six-yard touchdown throw from Cowboys QB Cooper Rush to receiver Jalen Tolbert, putting them ahead 10-9 thanks to a missed point after by Austin Seibert, a first for him this season. This was also the Cowboys’ first touchdown in the third quarter all season. To make matters even worse for the Commanders’ apparent confusing coverage, Rush threw 22 yards over the middle to tight end Luke Schoonmake r to extend the lead 20-9 with five minutes left in the game. Commanders Stall In Fourth With 3:02 left in the fourth, Daniels orchestrated a nine-play, 69-yard drive capped off with a five-yard touchdown pass to tight end Zach Ertz to bring it within five. Daniels would scramble to make the two-point conversion to bring it within three. There was hope for a second, but that fizzled away like a Thanos snap when receiver KaVontae Turpin, on the kickoff, muffed the catch, picked it up, and returned it for 99 yards. At 1:44 left in the game, the Commanders went for a 51-yard field goal attempt, which was successful, but failed at the onside kick. After the Cowboys failed to convert on downs, the Commanders, with under a minute left in the game, Daniels went 86 yards to receiver Terry McLaurin to bring the game to yet another miracle finish at 27-26. It would have taken the extra point to coast into overtime, but Seibert, who had missed an extra point late in the third quarter, missed the extra point for a second time. The Commanders would try another onside kick, which failed and resulted in another Cowboys score, extending the lead to 34. Daniels was once again put in the same position he was in when he hurled the ball more than 60 yards for their miracle Week 8 win against the Chicago Bears but would end this time with an interception. For the Commanders, the losing streak continues. For the Cowboys , Sunday’s win broke a five-game skid for them. Final Thoughts I have no idea what happened today with the Washington offense. They took no shots downfield, Robinson was ineffective, the offensive line was overpowered, and the playcalling was horrendous. You cannot try to play four quarters of football in the last quarter of the game. This was not Seibert’s fault, but it kinda was, considering extra points are literally right there at the goalpost. Nonetheless, there was more than enough blame to go around. This was an uncalled-for loss, especially with Dak Prescott out for the season. The Cowboys beat us with a backup, and he earned it. He played his game. We didn’t play ours. This article first appeared on Total Apex Sports and was syndicated with permission.

NEW YORK, Dec. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces it has filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of purchasers of securities of Joint Stock Company Kaspi.kz (NASDAQ: KSPI) between January 19, 2024 and September 19, 2024, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”). A class action has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than February 18, 2025 in the securities class action first filed by the Firm. SO WHAT: If you purchased Kaspi.kz securities 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 Kaspi.kz class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=29172 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 18, 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. Be wise in selecting counsel. 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/or failed to disclose that: (1) Kaspi.kz continued doing business with Russian entities, and also providing services to Russian citizens, after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, thereby exposing Kaspi.kz to the undisclosed risk of sanctions; (2) Kaspi.kz engaged in undisclosed related party transactions; (3) certain of Kaspi.kz’s executives have links to reputed criminals; and (4) as a result, defendants’ statements about Kaspi.kz’s business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. To join the Kaspi.kz class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=29172 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 or 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, 40 th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@rosenlegal.com www.rosenlegal.com

AP Sports SummaryBrief at 3:18 p.m. ESTLuigi Mangione, a 26-year-old Ivy League graduate from a wealthy Maryland family, has been identified as the suspected murderer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson . Initially identified by authorities as a “strong person of interest,” his first mugshot was released on Tuesday, according to The Post . Known for his anti-capitalist views and personal grievances against the medical industry, Mangione allegedly liked a manifesto targeting "parasites" online. Who is the suspect in Brian Thompson’s murder? Authorities detained a man in Altoona, Pennsylvania , on Monday for questioning in connection with the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in Manhattan last week. The suspect, identified as 26-year-old Luigi Mangione was reportedly carrying a firearm that was strikingly similar to the one used in the shooting, along with a fake ID. Also read: A man in Pennsylvania is under investigation for the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson According to sources, Mangione resented the medical community due to the treatment of a sick family member. Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny revealed at a press conference that Mangione was arrested and taken for investigation after a McDonald’s employee recognised him while he was dining there. All about Luigi Mangione Originally from Towson, Maryland, the 26-year-old is a former Ivy League student with family connections in state politics, including a cousin serving in the legislature. Police suspect his strained relationship with the medical industry may be linked to personal experiences, pointing to an X-ray image he shared online showing four spinal pins. Friends and former classmates were stunned by the news, recalling Mangione as a top prep-school valedictorian and a standout graduate of the University of Pennsylvania. The elite Gilman School in Baltimore, where he graduated at the top of his class, called the news of his arrest “deeply distressing.” Also read: How much Google, Amazon, Tesla, and big techs spend to protect their CEOs amid Brian Thompson’s murder “Luigi Mangione’s suspected involvement, in this case, is deeply distressing news on top of an already awful situation,” the Gilman School said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to everyone affected. Here on campus, our focus will remain on caring for and educating our students,” the private school released a statement following the arrest. Luigi Mangione remained silent during police questioning, according to FOX Digital. Authorities found him in possession of a ghost gun with a silencer, a U.S. passport, four fake IDs, and a handwritten manifesto with quotes of something similar to what he had shared online from Ted Kaczynski, the notorious "Unabomber." Mangione’s LinkedIn profile lists him as a data engineer for a California car company, though he claims to reside in Honolulu, Hawaii.EISH WENA: Woman shows her family under one roof for the festive period, warms hearts