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Russia has been clear about the goals of its military operation and the terms on which it will end, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has told US journalist Tucker Carlson. President Vladimir Putin is often falsely accused of refusing to negotiate with Ukraine, Lavrov told Carlson in the interview, which was published on Thursday. Two years ago Ukraine’s Vladimir Zelensky actually outlawed any talks with Moscow, apparently based on a belief that he and the West would dictate terms of a truce, Russia’s top diplomat pointed out. “For starters, why don’t you tell him [Zelensky] to cancel it [the order] publicly? This will be a signal that he wants negotiations,” Lavrov said. Asked about the terms Russia would agree to, Lavrov pointed Carlson to Putin’s June speech , in which the Russian president laid out Moscow's position; Ukraine would have to withdraw its forces from Russian territory, ensure the rights of Russian-speaking residents and become a neutral, nuclear-free state. “The key principle is non-bloc status of Ukraine,” Lavrov told Carlson. “No NATO. Absolutely. No military bases, no military exercises on Ukrainian soil with participation of foreign troops.” Likewise, Moscow will not tolerate any deal under which Ukraine could continue discriminating against the Russian language, media, culture and the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, the top diplomat added. “We are not playing a double game, ” Lavrov said. “What President Putin announced is the goal of our operation. It’s fair. It’s fully in line with the UN Charter. First of all, the rights: language rights, minority rights, national minority rights, religious rights.” In February 2022, when the conflict escalated, Moscow pointed to Kiev’s violation of the Minsk Agreements, repression of Russian-speaking residents of Ukraine and attacks on the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics. Since then, Ukraine has also outlawed the canonical Orthodox Church and sought to replace it with a 'cut-out' created by the government. Russia’s objectives are also “fully in line” with the principles of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), which the US is also a member of, Lavrov pointed out. The OSCE has repeatedly declared that no one should expand their security at the expense of others and that no organization in its sphere can claim dominance, Lavrov reminded Carlson. “NATO was doing exactly the opposite. So, we have legitimacy in our position,” Lavrov said. “No NATO on our doorsteps because OSCE agreed that this should not be the case if it hurts us.” Russia’s top diplomat also pointed out that the West has been saying “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine,” while breaking that pledge in back-channel communications, but also implicitly trying to craft Russia’s fate without Russia – and that, he said, is something Moscow can’t and won’t accept.MONDAY A community-wide Christmas Holiday kickoff will be held from 5:30-7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2, In downtown Johnston. There will be a reading of The Christmas Story and lighting of the town Christmas tree by Johnston Mayor Thomas Holmes at 6 p.m. There also will be food and craft vendors. The event is free and open to all. For more information, visit johnstondevelopmentcorp.org . Let's Go Bingo will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Mondays at the Aiken Senior Life Services, 1310 E. Pine Log Road. There is a $5 cover charge. Game cards are $1 each or $15 to $25. For more information, visit facebook.com/letsgobingoaiken . TUESDAY A Winter Revival will be held Dec. 3-5 at 7 p.m. nightly at Greater Young Zion Baptist Church, 405 Sand Bar Ferry Road, Augusta. The Rev. Dr. Robert L. McGowens, pastor of Greater Galilee Baptist Church, will be the guest speaker. For more information, visit greateryoungzion.org . The Rev. William B. Blount is the pastor. The AAA Homeschool and South Aiken Baptist bands will perform a Christmas concert at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3, at South Aiken Baptist Church, 980 Dougherty Road. Those in attendance are welcome to join in and sing along with familiar Christmas carols. The concert is free and open to the public. For more information, call Barb Rollins at 803-645-3292. Those who ordered greenery from the Aiken Garden Club will be able to pick up their orders Tuesday, Dec. 3, at the Aiken County Historical Museum, 433 Newberry St. For more information, visit thegardenclubofaiken.com . The Awesome Aiken Al-Anon group meets from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at First Christian Church, 900 Kerr Drive. Nar-Anon Aiken For Comfort Family Group will meet from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays in person in the conference room near the main sanctuary at St. John's Methodist Church, 104 Newberry St. S.W. For more information, email aikennaranon@outlook.com . Celebrate Recovery , a 12-step group for men and women, meets at 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Cedar Creek Church, 3001 Banks Mill Road. The Depression Anxiety Bipolar Support Group of Aiken and Surrounding States will meet from 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays online via the GoToMeeting App. For more information contact Mindy Harmon at 803-507-2214 or email manicgh@yahoo.com . The Depression Anxiety Bipolar Support Group of Aiken and Surrounding States will meet from 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays online via the GoToMeeting App. For more information contact Mindy Harmon at 803-507-2214 or email manicgh@yahoo.com . The Mountain Dulcimers of Aiken will meet at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3, at Living Hope Fellowship Church, 2550 Old Dominion Road. Players of all levels and anyone interested in learning to play are welcome. All acoustic instruments are welcome. For more information, call Gary Warnock at 740-352-7819. DEC. 4 An opening lecture for Keeneland Library's The Heart of the Turf traveling exhibit will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4, at the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum, 135 Dupree Place. The lecture is free and open to the public. Space is limited and registration is required. To register, visit cityofaikensc.recdesk.com or stop by the H. Odell Weeks Activities Center, 1700 Whiskey Road. The exhibit highlights racing's Black pioneers and runs through Jan. 17. Grammy award-winning singer/songwriter John Berry will perform at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4, at the Etherredge Center on the campus of USC Aiken, 471 University Parkway. The 28th annual Christmas with John Berry concert will feature popular classics like "Little Drummer Boy," "O Come All Ye Faithful," "Let It Snow," "O Holy Night" and others. Tickets range between $35 and $65 depending on seat selection. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit johnberry.com . Keely Rhodes will give a lecture titled "Music and Merriment” at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4, at 139 Newberry St. S.W. The lecture is free and open to the public, and is part of USC Aiken’s Aiken in The Alley series. This lecture is sponsored by Nothing Bundt Cakes. An ACBL Sectional Bridge Game is held at 1 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at the Lessie B. Price Aiken Senior and Youth Center, 841 Edgefield Ave. For more information, email AikenBridgeClub@gmail.com . The Savannah River Site Museum, 224 Laurens St. S.W., is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. The museum features exhibits and resources related to the Savannah River Site and the Cold War. Admission is free. For more information, call 803-648-1437 or visit srsheritagemuseum.org . DEC. 5 Coloring for Grownups will be held from 2-4 p.m. Thursdays, Dec. 5 and 19, in the creative lab on the first floor of the Aiken County Public Library, 314 Chesterfield St. S.W. Those attending should bring colored pencils and felt pens. Coloring sheets and refreshments will be provided. To sign up or for more information, call the reference desk at 803-642-2020 ext. 3. The Aiken Newcomers' Club will meet Tuesday, Dec. 10, at Newberry Hall, 117 Newberry St. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. followed by the meeting at 10:15 a.m. The program will be a performance by MAiken Music. Reservations are required. The cost is $25 per person and is payable at the door. To make or cancel a reservation, call Amy Connolley (A-L) 973-670-1399 or Barb Novak (M-Z) 803-507-3356 or email newcomers29803@gmail.com . Reservations or cancellations are due by Thursday, Dec. 5. 4 Cats in the Doghouse play jazz from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays at The Willcox, 100 Colleton Ave. DEC. 6 The 54th Christmas Craft Show will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, and Saturday, Dec. 7, at the H. Odell Weeks Activities Center, 1700 Whiskey Road. The event will feature vendors offering holiday decor, wood crafts, unique artwork, edible goods, jewelry, needlecraft and more. Admission is free. For more information, call 803-642-7600 option 3. The Ridge Spring-Monetta FFA will hold a Christmas Parade at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit tcrim@acpsd.net . The Aiken Community Theatre will perform "A Christmas Carol" Dec. 6-14 at the Amentum Center for the Performing Arts, 126 Newberry St. S.W. Tickets are $20 for adults, $17 for seniors and students, and $15 for children. For more information, visit aikencommunitytheatre.org . The City of Aiken will hold its annual Festival of Trees Dec. 6 through Jan. 4 at the Center for African American History, Art & Culture, 120 York St. N.E. The festival will open at 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, with a tree lighting. Admission is free. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The Friends of the Gaston Livery Stable will hold the Manes and Tails Gala from 6-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at the Gaston Livery Stable, 1315 Richland Ave. E. The event will feature heavy hors d'oeuvres, an open bar and entertainment by Four Cats in the Doghouse. Tickets are $60 per person. The deadline to purchase tickets is Friday, Nov. 22. For more information, call Robert Gossett at 803-640-3836. The Village at Woodside will hold its annual tree lighting celebration from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at 110 Coach Light Way. This is a free event. The City of Aiken will hold its 36th annual Downtown Tree Lighting from 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at the Newberry Street Festival Center. The event will feature music, the mayor and a visit from Santa Claus. For more information, call 803-642-7600 option 3. DEC. 7 “Harold & The Purple Crayon," rated PG, will be shown at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Aiken County Public Library, 314 Chesterfield St. S.W. For more information, visit abbe-lib.org . A Communal Pen Community Writing Workshop will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum, 406 Park Ave. The workshop is part of the Spark! Places of Innovation exhibit and serves as a springboard for participants to share their stories and experiences. Bobby Harley will facilitate. Registration is required. For more information or to register, visit communalpen.com/events . A Christmas Artisan Market will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at The Library at Nona & Pops, 110 Park St. N.W., Wagener. Joye in Aiken will hold its Joye to the World! Holiday Concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Etherredge Center on the campus of USC Aiken, 471 University Parkway. Tickets are $50 per person. Students are free with ID. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Etherredge Center Box Office at 803-641-3305. The 54th Christmas Craft Show will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, and Saturday, Dec. 7, at the H. Odell Weeks Activities Center, 1700 Whiskey Road. The event will feature vendors offering holiday decor, wood crafts, unique artwork, edible goods, jewelry, needlecraft and more. Admission is free. For more information, call 803-642-7600 option 3. A Veterans Holiday Social will be held from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at American Legion Post 192, 275 Legion Road, Evans, Ga. Attendees will be able to connect with fellow veterans, discover local resources and make new friends. For more information or to RSVP, email fredie86@gmail.com or call 803-522-0044. The Back to Basics Alcoholics Anonymous group will meet in-person at 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 961 Trail Ridge Road. Masks are encouraged for those who are not vaccinated. DEC. 8 The Women of Woodside Holiday Home Tour will be held from 12:30-5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9. A tea and raffle will be held from 2-5 p.m. at the Woodside Country Club, 1000 Woodside Drive. Tickets are $30 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit womenofwoodside.com . The Aiken Symphony Orchestra will perform its Home for the Holidays concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at the Etherredge Center on the campus of USC Aiken, 471 University Parkway. The concert will feature holiday music from around the world performed by the Aiken Symphony Brass Quintet and narration by Juanita Campbell. Tickets are $45 or $60 depending on seat selection. This concert is part of the 2024-25 Pops Series. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit aikensymphony.com . A Jingle Jam Christmas celebration will be held from 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, at Cedar Creek Church, 3001 Banks Mill Road. The event will feature indoor and outdoor activities and will include a petting zoo, hay rides, carnival games, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa. This is a free event. The Aiken Christmas Parade will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, in downtown Aiken. For more information, visit downtownaiken.com . DEC. 9 The Women of Woodside will hold its annual Holiday Home Tour from 12:30- 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9. A Tea and raffle will be held from 2-5 p.m. at the Woodside Country Club, 1000 Woodside Drive. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased online at womenofwoodside.com . Let's Go Bingo will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Mondays at the Aiken Senior Life Services, 1310 E. Pine Log Road. There is a $5 cover charge. Game cards are $1 each or $15 to $25. For more information, visit facebook.com/letsgobingoaiken . DEC. 10 The Aiken Newcomers' Club will meet Tuesday, Dec. 10, at Newberry Hall, 117 Newberry St. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. followed by the meeting at 10:15 a.m. The program will be a performance by MAiken Music. Reservations are required. The cost is $25 per person and is payable at the door. To make or cancel a reservation, call Amy Connolley (A-L) 973-670-1399 or Barb Novak (M-Z) 803-507-3356 or email newcomers29803@gmail.com . Reservations or cancellations are due by Thursday, Dec. 5. Nar-Anon Aiken For Comfort Family Group will meet from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays in person in the conference room near the main sanctuary at St. John's Methodist Church, 104 Newberry St. S.W. For more information, email aikennaranon@outlook.com . Celebrate Recovery , a 12-step group for men and women, meets at 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Cedar Creek Church, 3001 Banks Mill Road. The Depression Anxiety Bipolar Support Group of Aiken and Surrounding States will meet from 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays online via the GoToMeeting App. For more information contact Mindy Harmon at 803-507-2214 or email manicgh@yahoo.com . DEC. 11 The Senior Men's Club of Aiken will meet at noon Wednesday, Dec. 11, at the Woodside Country Club, 1000 Woodside Drive. The guest speaker will be Linda Johnson, lecturer and president of the Historic Aiken Foundation. Her topic will be Women of the Winter Colony. The cost is $30 per person and reservations are required. For more information about club membership or to make a reservation, call Rick Endler at 803-649-7697 or email afendler@bellsouth.net . An ACBL Sectional Bridge Game is held at 1 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at the Lessie B. Price Aiken Senior and Youth Center, 841 Edgefield Ave. For more information, email AikenBridgeClub@gmail.com . The Savannah River Site Museum, 224 Laurens St. S.W., is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. The museum features exhibits and resources related to the Savannah River Site and the Cold War. Admission is free. For more information, call 803-648-1437 or visit srsheritagemuseum.org . DEC. 12 A Stuffed Animal Sleepover will be held from 5-6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, at the Aiken County Public Library, 314 Chesterfield St. S.W. Wear your jammies and bring a stuffed animal for a sleepover. Enjoy snacks and activities from 5-6 then leave the stuffies for a sleepover. Pick them up starting at 10 a.m. and see what they got up to. For more information or to register, call the circulation desk at 803-642-2020 ext. 2. The Aiken Singers will perform their Christmas Time is Here Christmas concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, at St. John's Methodist Church, 104 Newberry St. They will also perform at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17. The public is welcome to come sing along and celebrate the season. An AARP Driver Safety Course will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, at the Aiken County Recreation Center, 917 Jefferson Davis Highway, Graniteville. The cost is $20 for AARP members and $25 for non-members. For more information or to register, call 803-671-0821. The Aiken Downtown Development Association will hold its Night of 1,000 Lights from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, in downtown Aiken. 4 Cats in the Doghouse play jazz from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays at The Willcox, 100 Colleton Ave. DEC. 13 The F riends of the Aiken County Historical Museum will hold a Holiday Tea from 2-4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at the museum 433 Newberry St. Attendees can relax and enjoy a traditional English tea and enjoy the festive atmosphere at the museum. Tickets are $40 per person or $140 for a table of four. Reservations are needed by Dec. 9. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit achmfriends.org . The Town of Wagener will hold its Christmas tree lighting at 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13. DEC. 14 A crafts and gifts sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Aiken County Historical Museum, 433 Newberry St. S.W. More than 12 local vendors will be on hand selling handmade crafts. For more information, email imini@aikencountysc.gov . The 32nd annual Christmas in Hopelands event will be held from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 14-23 in Hopelands Gardens. The walk-through exhibit features over 2 miles of lighted pathways and illuminated displays. Concerts will be held at 7 p.m. on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage. The Suzuki Strings Augusta will perform Saturday, Dec. 14. There is no cost to enter the event or to utilize the shuttle service. All guests should use the shuttle service; shuttles run continuously from Citizens Park, located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 to 8:45 p.m. Handicap parking is available at 135 Dupree Place. No animals are allowed on shuttle vehicles. The third annual Langley Pond Christmas will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Langley Pond Park, 113 Langley Dam Road. Santa will sail in around noon. The event will feature opportunities for photos with Santa, food and craft vendors, entertainment and more. For more information, call 803-642-7557. A Hometown Christmas Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at Boondock Farms, 755 Foreman St., Jackson. The event will feature a farmers market, craft show, vendors, food trucks, live music and more. For more information, visit boondockfarms.com . A Jingle & Mingle event will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at DAV Chapter 43, 2194 Columbia Highway N. The event will feature food, dancing and music by DJ Mailman. Admission is $12. For more information, call 706-495-8351. The City of Aiken will hold Breakfast and a Book with the Clauses will be held at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Lessie B. Price Aiken Senior and Youth Center, 841 Edgefield Ave. N.W. The cost is $5 per person. All ages are welcome. Registration is open Nov. 11 through Dec. 7. For more information or to register, visit coa.page/pfaa. The Wagener Christmas Parade will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14. The parade will begin at the middle school. The Town of Burnettown will hold its Christmas Fest from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, at 3187 Augusta Road, Burnettown. The event will offer photos with Santa, face painting and vendors. The Christmas in the Valley Parade will follow at 3 p.m. For more information, call 803-593-2676. The Back to Basics Alcoholics Anonymous group will meet in-person at 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 961 Trail Ridge Road. Masks are encouraged for those who are not vaccinated. DEC. 15 The Aiken Youth Choirs will hold their holiday concert at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at Aiken's First Baptist Church, 120 Chesterfield S. N. The concert, titled Here We Come A Caroling, will feature Belles Canto, Bellini and Bound to Sing. Admission is free but donations will be accepted. For more information, email directors@gmail.com . The 32nd annual Christmas in Hopelands event will be held from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 14-23 in Hopelands Gardens. The walk-through exhibit features over 2 miles of lighted pathways and illuminated displays. Concerts will be held at 7 p.m. on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage. Aiken Tuba Christmas will perform Sunday, Dec. 15. There is no cost to enter the event or to utilize the shuttle service. All guests should use the shuttle service; shuttles run continuously from Citizens Park, located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 to 8:45 p.m. Handicap parking is available at 135 Dupree Place. No animals are allowed on shuttle vehicles. The Aiken Choral Society will perform a Christmas Concert at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at St. John's Methodist Church, 104 Newberry St. N.W. The Hoofbeats and Carols parade will be held from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, in downtown Aiken. DEC. 16 The 32nd annual Christmas in Hopelands event will be held from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 14-23 in Hopelands Gardens. The walk-through exhibit features over 2 miles of lighted pathways and illuminated displays. Concerts will be held at 7 p.m. on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage. The Horse Creek Ensemble will perform Monday, Dec. 16. There is no cost to enter the event or to utilize the shuttle service. All guests should use the shuttle service; shuttles run continuously from Citizens Park, located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 to 8:45 p.m. Handicap parking is available at 135 Dupree Place. No animals are allowed on shuttle vehicles. Let's Go Bingo will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Mondays at the Aiken Senior Life Services, 1310 E. Pine Log Road. There is a $5 cover charge. Game cards are $1 each or $15 to $25. For more information, visit facebook.com/letsgobingoaiken . DEC. 17 The 32nd annual Christmas in Hopelands event will be held from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 14-23 in Hopelands Gardens. The walk-through exhibit features over 2 miles of lighted pathways and illuminated displays. Concerts will be held at 7 p.m. on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage. The East Aiken School of the Arts will perform Tuesday, Dec. 17. There is no cost to enter the event or to utilize the shuttle service. All guests should use the shuttle service; shuttles run continuously from Citizens Park, located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 to 8:45 p.m. Handicap parking is available at 135 Dupree Place. No animals are allowed on shuttle vehicles. A book club will meet at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17, at the Aiken County Public Library, 314 Chesterfield St. S.W. Groups A and B will discuss "A Christmas Memory" by Truman Capote. Sign up at the information desk on the 2nd floor. 803-642-2020, ext. 3. The Aiken Singers will perform their Christmas Time is Here Christmas concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, at St. John's Methodist Church, 104 Newberry St. They will also perform at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17. The public is welcome to come sing along and celebrate the season. The Mountain Dulcimers of Aiken will meet at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at Living Hope Fellowship Church, 2550 Old Dominion Road. Players of all levels and anyone interested in learning to play are welcome. All acoustic instruments are welcome. For more information, call Gary Warnock at 740-352-7819. The Awesome Aiken Al-Anon group meets from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at First Christian Church, 900 Kerr Drive. Nar-Anon Aiken For Comfort Family Group will meet from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays in person in the conference room near the main sanctuary at St. John's Methodist Church, 104 Newberry St. S.W. For more information, email aikennaranon@outlook.com . Celebrate Recovery , a 12-step group for men and women, meets at 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Cedar Creek Church, 3001 Banks Mill Road. The Depression Anxiety Bipolar Support Group of Aiken and Surrounding States will meet from 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays online via the GoToMeeting App. For more information contact Mindy Harmon at 803-507-2214 or email manicgh@yahoo.com . DEC. 18 The 32nd annual Christmas in Hopelands event will be held from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 14-23 in Hopelands Gardens. The walk-through exhibit features over 2 miles of lighted pathways and illuminated displays. Concerts will be held at 7 p.m. on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage. The Sheriff's Pipe and Drums will perform Wednesday, Dec. 18. There is no cost to enter the event or to utilize the shuttle service. All guests should use the shuttle service; shuttles run continuously from Citizens Park, located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 to 8:45 p.m. Handicap parking is available at 135 Dupree Place. No animals are allowed on shuttle vehicles. An ACBL Sectional Bridge Game is held at 1 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at the Lessie B. Price Aiken Senior and Youth Center, 841 Edgefield Ave. For more information, email AikenBridgeClub@gmail.com . The Savannah River Site Museum, 224 Laurens St. S.W., is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. The museum features exhibits and resources related to the Savannah River Site and the Cold War. Admission is free. For more information, call 803-648-1437 or visit srsheritagemuseum.org . DEC. 19 The Art of Words Poets' Open Mic event will be held from 5:45 to 7:45 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19, at the Aiken County Public Library, 314 Chesterfield St. S.W. Adults, teens, and young adults will have the opportunity to practice performance skills in front of a small audience, receive feedback and get inspiration. The evening will be co-hosted by Tamell "Big" Bailey and Cathy Benedetto. The featured artist will be Cathy Bohannan. Those wishing to participate should sign up when they arrive at 5:45 p.m. on the day of the event. A Kids' Book Club will meet at 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19, at the Aiken County Public Library, 314 Chesterfield St. S.W. Read or listen to any book that takes place in winter or a cold climate and join a discussion with snacks and an activity. This book club is for ages 5-10. Younger siblings are welcome; some toys will be available for them during the program. For more information or to register, call 803-642-2020 ext. 2. The 32nd annual Christmas in Hopelands event will be held from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 14-23 in Hopelands Gardens. The walk-through exhibit features over 2 miles of lighted pathways and illuminated displays. Concerts will be held at 7 p.m. on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage. Aiken High School will perform Thursday, Dec. 19. There is no cost to enter the event or to utilize the shuttle service. All guests should use the shuttle service; shuttles run continuously from Citizens Park, located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 to 8:45 p.m. Handicap parking is available at 135 Dupree Place. No animals are allowed on shuttle vehicles. 4 Cats in the Doghouse play jazz from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays at The Willcox, 100 Colleton Ave. DEC. 20 A Teen After Hours event will be held from 6-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20, at the Aiken County Public Library, 314 Chesterfield St. S.W. Attendees will be able to make pop sockets and buttons while enjoying snacks and playing board games. For more information or to register, call 803-642-2020 ext. 2. This program is for children grades 6-12. The 32nd annual Christmas in Hopelands event will be held from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 14-23 in Hopelands Gardens. The walk-through exhibit features over 2 miles of lighted pathways and illuminated displays. Concerts will be held at 7 p.m. on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage. Renovate Ballet will perform Friday, Dec. 20. There is no cost to enter the event or to utilize the shuttle service. All guests should use the shuttle service; shuttles run continuously from Citizens Park, located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 to 8:45 p.m. Handicap parking is available at 135 Dupree Place. No animals are allowed on shuttle vehicles. The Aiken Civic Orchestra will perform a concert titled It's the Holiday Season at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 961 Trailwood Ave. The Aiken Singers will join the orchestra. The performance is part of the Pops Series. Admission is free, but a donation of $25 is suggested. For more information, visit aikencivicorchestra.org . DEC. 21 “The Wild Robot," rated PG, will be shown at 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, at the Aiken County Public Library, 314 Chesterfield St. S.W. For more information, call 803-642-2020. The 32nd annual Christmas in Hopelands event will be held from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 14-23 in Hopelands Gardens. The walk-through exhibit features over 2 miles of lighted pathways and illuminated displays. Concerts will be held at 7 p.m. on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage. THe South Carolina Brass Band will perform Saturday, Dec. 21. There is no cost to enter the event or to utilize the shuttle service. All guests should use the shuttle service; shuttles run continuously from Citizens Park, located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 to 8:45 p.m. Handicap parking is available at 135 Dupree Place. No animals are allowed on shuttle vehicles. The Back to Basics Alcoholics Anonymous group will meet in-person at 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 961 Trail Ridge Road. Masks are encouraged for those who are not vaccinated. DEC. 22 The 32nd annual Christmas in Hopelands event will be held from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 14-23 in Hopelands Gardens. The walk-through exhibit features over 2 miles of lighted pathways and illuminated displays. Concerts will be held at 7 p.m. on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage. Town Creek Baptist Church will perform Sunday, Dec. 22. There is no cost to enter the event or to utilize the shuttle service. All guests should use the shuttle service; shuttles run continuously from Citizens Park, located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 to 8:45 p.m. Handicap parking is available at 135 Dupree Place. No animals are allowed on shuttle vehicles. DEC. 23 The 32nd annual Christmas in Hopelands event will be held from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 14-23 in Hopelands Gardens. The walk-through exhibit features over 2 miles of lighted pathways and illuminated displays. Concerts will be held at 7 p.m. on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts Stage. Josh Martin will perform Monday, Dec. 23. There is no cost to enter the event or to utilize the shuttle service. All guests should use the shuttle service; shuttles run continuously from Citizens Park, located at 1060 Banks Mill Road, from 5:45 to 8:45 p.m. Handicap parking is available at 135 Dupree Place. No animals are allowed on shuttle vehicles. Let's Go Bingo will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Mondays at the Aiken Senior Life Services, 1310 E. Pine Log Road. There is a $5 cover charge. Game cards are $1 each or $15 to $25. For more information, visit facebook.com/letsgobingoaiken . DEC. 24 The Awesome Aiken Al-Anon group meets from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at First Christian Church, 900 Kerr Drive. Nar-Anon Aiken For Comfort Family Group will meet from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays in person in the conference room near the main sanctuary at St. John's Methodist Church, 104 Newberry St. S.W. For more information, email aikennaranon@outlook.com . Celebrate Recovery , a 12-step group for men and women, meets at 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Cedar Creek Church, 3001 Banks Mill Road. The Depression Anxiety Bipolar Support Group of Aiken and Surrounding States will meet from 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays online via the GoToMeeting App. For more information contact Mindy Harmon at 803-507-2214 or email manicgh@yahoo.com . DEC. 25 An ACBL Sectional Bridge Game is held at 1 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at the Lessie B. Price Aiken Senior and Youth Center, 841 Edgefield Ave. For more information, email AikenBridgeClub@gmail.com . The Savannah River Site Museum, 224 Laurens St. S.W., is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. The museum features exhibits and resources related to the Savannah River Site and the Cold War. Admission is free. For more information, call 803-648-1437 or visit srsheritagemuseum.org . DEC. 26 4 Cats in the Doghouse play jazz from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays at The Willcox, 100 Colleton Ave. DEC. 27 DEC. 28 The Back to Basics Alcoholics Anonymous group will meet in-person at 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 961 Trail Ridge Road. Masks are encouraged for those who are not vaccinated. DEC. 29 DEC. 30 Let's Go Bingo will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Mondays at the Aiken Senior Life Services, 1310 E. Pine Log Road. There is a $5 cover charge. Game cards are $1 each or $15 to $25. For more information, visit facebook.com/letsgobingoaiken . DEC. 31 A Noon Years Eve Party will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31, at the Aiken County Public Library, 314 Chesterfield St. S.W. Ring in the new year with fun activities, snacks and dancing. For children ages 1 and older. For more information or to register, call 803-642-2020 ext. 2. The Awesome Aiken Al-Anon group meets from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at First Christian Church, 900 Kerr Drive. Nar-Anon Aiken For Comfort Family Group will meet from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays in person in the conference room near the main sanctuary at St. John's Methodist Church, 104 Newberry St. S.W. For more information, email aikennaranon@outlook.com . Celebrate Recovery , a 12-step group for men and women, meets at 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Cedar Creek Church, 3001 Banks Mill Road. The Depression Anxiety Bipolar Support Group of Aiken and Surrounding States will meet from 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays online via the GoToMeeting App. For more information contact Mindy Harmon at 803-507-2214 or email manicgh@yahoo.com .

KUWAIT: As the 45th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit opens on Sunday in Kuwait, it is impossible to overlook the pivotal role played by the country’s leadership in the founding of the council. Years of tireless efforts and extensive consultations led by the late Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah culminated in the establishment of GCC in 1981. This vision, developed over five years, laid the foundation for what has become one of the most successful models of regional integration in the Arab world. The GCC now stands as a cornerstone for the security, stability, and prosperity of its member states and their peoples. Over the past four decades, the GCC, guided by the wisdom and visionary leadership of its rulers and the solidarity of its peoples, has served as a strong framework for collective security. The idea for the creation of the GCC was first proposed in May 1976, during a visit by the late Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad to the United Arab Emirates. There, he engaged in discussions with the late UAE President, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan, in which he proposed the formation of a Gulf unity aimed at fostering cooperation across a wide range of fields. This unity would be based on solid and enduring foundations, ensuring the security, stability, and well-being of the region’s peoples. In December 1978, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad instructed the late Crown Prince and then Prime Minister, Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, to visit the five other Gulf countries — UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar — to present his proposal. His visits were met with strong support, and the subsequent official statements emphasized the need for rapid action to unite these nations. They highlighted the deep religious, cultural, and national ties between the Gulf countries, which provided a solid foundation for cooperation and progress, as well as a means to counter the growing influence of external powers in the region. At the 11th Arab League Summit in Amman in November 1980, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad presented a Kuwaiti vision for a unified Gulf strategy. His proposal called for a comprehensive framework of cooperation, encompassing political, economic, cultural, and military collaboration. This vision was widely embraced by the Gulf states. On February 4, 1981, the foreign ministers of the six Gulf states convened and issued a statement calling for the establishment of the GCC, emphasizing cooperation among member states rather than a political union. To implement this vision, a committee of experts met in Riyadh on February 24-25, 1981, to finalize the council’s structure and draft its founding charter. On March 9, 1981, the foreign ministers met in Muscat, Oman, where they approved the GCC’s organizational structure and initialed its founding charter. Finally, on May 25, 1981, the first summit of the GCC was held in Abu Dhabi, officially establishing the Gulf Cooperation Council. The founding charter was formally adopted, and Kuwaiti diplomat Abdullah Yacoub Bishara was appointed as the first Secretary-General of the GCC. Founding charter The preamble of the GCC’s charter underscored the special relations, shared values, and common objectives among the member states, all rooted in Islamic principles, a common destiny, and unity of purpose. The GCC’s cooperative efforts were aimed at serving the higher goals of the Arab nation. The objectives outlined in the founding charter include promoting coordination, integration, and unity among the member states across a range of fields—political, economic, financial, commercial, customs, transportation, education, culture, health, media, tourism, and legislative affairs. The charter also emphasized fostering scientific and technological advancements in key sectors such as industry, mining, agriculture, water, and animal resources, while establishing research centers and joint projects to encourage private sector cooperation. The final communiqué of the first GCC summit highlighted the region’s security and stability, emphasizing the rejection of foreign interference and the need for the Gulf to remain free from international conflicts. Effective regional union The summit also reaffirmed the necessity of finding a just solution to the Palestinian issue that would guarantee the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people. The creation of the GCC was not merely a strategic decision; it was a reflection of the deep historical, social, and cultural ties that unite these nations. The shared religious beliefs, cultural connections, and familial bonds among their peoples, along with their geographical proximity, created a natural sense of unity and common identity. While the GCC formalized and organized the long-standing interactions among these nations, it also responded to the security and developmental challenges facing the region. The establishment of the GCC was a practical response to the aspirations of the Gulf peoples for regional unity, especially after broader Arab unity proved difficult to achieve. As the GCC celebrates its 43rd anniversary, it continues to be regarded as the most important regional entity in the Arab world, as His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah remarked during the 43rd Gulf Summit in Riyadh in December 2022. “Our collective Gulf action is filled with remarkable achievements that have elevated the GCC to one of the most successful and effective regional unions. We have successfully met the aspirations of our people and achieved strategic and economic benefits for our countries,” he said. — KUNA

Board takes action on football realignmentKozhikode (Kerala), Nov 24 (PTI) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday said, the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) performed remarkably well in the bypolls held in the state, despite the Congress-led UDF unleashing a false campaign against the government and joining hands with communal outfits to ensure their victory. He said the LDF achieved a significant victory in the Chelakkara assembly constituency and could increase its vote share in Palakkad segment in the bypolls, the results of which were announced on Saturday. Taking a dig at the opposition front, the CM asked what had happened even after the Congress-led UDF vigorously campaigned that the bypoll would be an evaluation of the state government. Addressing a party programme here, Vijayan said that the UDF made all attempts to wrest the Chelakkara constituency and gave utmost prominence for the constituency during the campaigning. He said the Congress tried to achieve a huge political victory by winning Chelakkara. “Then, what had happened when the results were announced?” Vijayan asked. He also accused the opposition front of joining hands with outfits like SDPI and Jamaat-e-Islami to defeat the LDF in the bypolls held to Palakkad and Chelakkara assembly seats and Wayanad Lok Sabha constituency. If the bypoll result was examined overall, it could be seen that people of the state had stood with the Left government strongly, he said. The UDF candidate could not retain her vote share in Chelakkara, when compared to the performance of the party in the segment in the last Lok Sabha polls. But the LDF candidate could ensure his victory by achieving a remarkable margin, the CM added. Both the LDF and the UDF retained the Chelakkara and Palakkad Assembly seats respectively with a comfortable margin in the bypolls. The Congress won the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat with a thumping margin. PTI LGK ADB This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content. var ytflag = 0;var myListener = function() {document.removeEventListener('mousemove', myListener, false);lazyloadmyframes();};document.addEventListener('mousemove', myListener, false);window.addEventListener('scroll', function() {if (ytflag == 0) {lazyloadmyframes();ytflag = 1;}});function lazyloadmyframes() {var ytv = document.getElementsByClassName("klazyiframe");for (var i = 0; i < ytv.length; i++) {ytv[i].src = ytv[i].getAttribute('data-src');}} Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );

WASHINGTON (AP) — When Elon Musk first suggested a new effort to cut the size of government, Donald Trump didn’t seem to take it seriously. His eventual name for the idea sounded like a joke too. It would be called the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, a reference to an online meme featuring a surprised-looking dog from Japan. But now that Trump has won the election, Musk’s fantasy is becoming reality, with the potential to spark a constitutional clash over the balance of power in Washington. Trump put Musk, the world’s richest man, and Vivek Ramaswamy, an entrepreneur and former Republican presidential candidate, in charge of the new department, which is really an outside advisory committee that will work with people inside the government to reduce spending and regulations. This week, Musk and Ramaswamy said they would encourage Trump to make cuts by refusing to spend money allocated by Congress, a process known as impounding. The proposal goes against a 1974 law intended to prevent future presidents from following in the footsteps of Richard Nixon, who held back funding that he didn’t like. “We are prepared for the onslaught from entrenched interests in Washington,” Musk and Ramaswamy wrote in an opinion piece in The Wall Street Journal. ”We expect to prevail. Now is the moment for decisive action.” Trump has already suggested taking such a big step, saying last year that he would “use the president’s long-recognized impoundment power to squeeze the bloated federal bureaucracy for massive savings.” It would be a dramatic attempt to expand his powers, when he already will have the benefit of a sympathetic Republican-controlled Congress and a conservative-majority U.S. Supreme Court, and it could swiftly become one of the most closely watched legal fights of his second administration. “He might get away with it,” said William Galston, a senior fellow in governance studies at the Brookings Institution, a Washington-based think tank. “Congress’ power of the purse will turn into an advisory opinion.” Musk and Ramaswamy have started laying out their plans Right now, plans for the Department of Government Efficiency are still coming into focus. The nascent organization has put out a call for “super high-IQ small-government revolutionaries willing to work 80+ hours per week on unglamorous cost-cutting.” Applicants are encouraged to submit their resumes through X, the social media company that Musk owns. In the Wall Street Journal, Musk and Ramaswamy provided the most detailed look yet at how they would operate and where they could cut. Some are longtime Republican targets, such as $535 million for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Other plans are more ambitious and could reshape the federal government. The two wrote that they would “identify the minimum number of employees required at an agency for it to perform its constitutionally permissible and statutorily mandated functions,” leading to “mass head-count reductions across the federal bureaucracy.” Civil service protections wouldn’t apply, they argue, because they wouldn’t be targeting specific people for political purposes. Some employees could choose “voluntary severance payments to facilitate a graceful exit.” But others would be encouraged to quit by mandating that they show up at the office five days a week, ending pandemic-era flexibility about remote work. The requirement “would result in a wave of voluntary terminations that we welcome.” Everett Kelley, president of the American Federation of Government Employees, said such cutbacks would harm services for Americans who rely on the federal government, and he suggested that Musk and Ramaswamy were in over their heads. “I don’t think they’re even remotely qualified to perform those duties,” he said. “That’s my main concern.” Kelley said his union, which represents 750,000 employees for the federal government and the city of Washington, D.C., was ready to fight attempts to slash the workforce. “We’ve been here, we’ve heard this kind of rhetoric before,” he said. “And we are prepared.” Federal regulations would be targeted for elimination There was no mention in the Wall Street Journal of Musk’s previously stated goal of cutting $2 trillion from the budget, which is nearly a third of total annual spending. Nor did they write about “Schedule F,” a potential plan to reclassify federal employees to make them easier to fire. Ramaswamy once described the idea as the “mass deportation of federal bureaucrats out of Washington, D.C.” However, Musk and Ramaswamy said they would reduce regulations that they describe as excessive. They wrote that their department “will work with legal experts embedded in government agencies, aided by advanced technology,” to review regulations that run counter to two recent Supreme Court decisions that were intended to limit federal rulemaking authority. Musk and Ramaswamy said Trump could “immediately pause the enforcement of those regulations and initiate the process for review and rescission.” Chris Edwards, an expert on budget issues at the Cato Institute, said many Republicans have promised to reduce the size and role of government over the years, often to little effect. Sometimes it feels like every budget item and tax provision, no matter how obscure, has people dedicated to its preservation, turning attempts at cuts into political battles of attrition. “Presidents always seem to have higher priorities,” he said. “A lot of it falls to the wayside.” Although DOGE is scheduled to finish its work by July 4, 2026, Edwards said Musk and Ramaswamy should move faster to capitalize on momentum from Trump’s election victory. “Will it just collect dust on a shelf, or will it be put into effect?” Edwards said. “That all depends on Trump and where he is at that point in time.” Ramaswamy said in an online video that they’re planning regular “Dogecasts” to keep the public updated on their work, which he described as “a once-in-a-generation project” to eliminate “waste, fraud and abuse.” “However bad you think it is, it’s probably worse,” he said. Musk and Ramaswamy will have allies in Congress House Republicans are expected to put Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Trump ally from Georgia, in charge of a subcommittee to work with DOGE, according to two people with knowledge of the plans who were not authorized to discuss them publicly. Greene and Rep. James Comer, the Kentucky Republican who chairs the House Oversight Committee, have already met with Ramaswamy, the two people said. Musk brought up the idea for DOGE while broadcasting a conversation with Trump on X during the campaign. “I think we need a government efficiency commission to say like, ‘Hey, where are we spending money that’s sensible. Where is it not sensible?’” Musk said. Musk returned to the topic twice, volunteering his services by saying “I’d be happy to help out on such a commission.” “I’d love it,” Trump replied, describing Musk as “the greatest cutter.” Musk has his own incentives to push this initiative forward. His companies, including SpaceX and Tesla, have billions of dollars in government contracts and face oversight from government regulators. After spending an estimated $200 million to support Trump’s candidacy, he’s poised to have expansive influence over the next administration. Trump even went to Texas earlier this week to watch SpaceX test its largest rocket. DOGE will have an ally in Sen. Rand Paul, a Kentucky Republican who has railed against federal spending for years. He recently told Fox News that he sent “2,000 pages of waste that can be cut” to Musk and Ramaswamy. “I’m all in and will do anything I can to help them,” Paul said.

(The Center Square) – President Donald Trump has promised to reduce government waste and employed wealthy businessmen Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to lead the charge. So far, spending on federal Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policies are prime targets for Musk and Ramaswamy, and a recent report shows just how widespread federal DEI spending has become. The report from Do No Harm shows 500 ways the Biden-Harris administration “infused DEI into the federal government.” Those examples include federal agencies starting dozens of equity training programs, doling out federal contracts and jobs based on race and gender, and teaching Americans more about their country’s racism, both past and present. The DEI explosion took off after Biden issued executive orders on his first day in office as well as another in June of 2021. The first executive order “established that affirmatively advancing equity, civil rights, racial justice, and equal opportunity is the responsibility of the whole of our Government.” The second order established “that it is the policy of my Administration to cultivate a workforce that draws from the full diversity of the Nation.” Biden also issued other executive orders, including around gender and sexuality, to the same effect his first year in office. Those orders gave federal bureaucrats not only permission but actually direct orders to embrace DEI policies across the board. And Do No Harm’s report shows they did, full-throttle, citing 80 “Equity Action Plans” submitted by agencies that promised over 500 taxpayer-funded actions. Some of the actions are seemingly mild, such as the U.S. Social Security Administration tracking more racial data. Other examples of DEI policies, though, made the federal government the nation’s teacher. For example, a blog for the U.S. Treasury Department lectures Americans on racial inequality. More directly, the federal government began implementing training programs for many federal employees that fully embrace racial ideology labeled “woke” by its opponents. For instance, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission invested in training for employees to consider equity more in its regulatory decisions. More from this section “Training will address how equity and environmental justice involves removing barriers underserved communities may face in the context of the Commission’s practices, processes, and policies,” FERC said in its Equity Action Plan. “Training also will address how, consistent with FERC’s mission and statutory duties, the Commission considers the impact of its actions on such communities. More specific trainings geared toward the responsibilities of different program offices and issue areas also may be identified or developed and offered.” Other actions seem to favor some groups over others. Changing the “percentage” of benefits received necessarily requires giving contracts, grants, or other federal resources to certain groups, almost always at the expense of white Americans, even more often white men. For example, the American Battle Monuments Commissions in its Equity Action Plan called for “expanding the percentage of U.S.-based contracted goods and services awarded to minority-owned, women-owned, and service disabled veteran-owned enterprises.” In fact, the ABMC pledged to pay a worker for this sole purpose. In another instance, the Smithsonian Institute pledged to recruit more Black and indigenous interns. “One of the simplest ways to ensure equity and accessibility in internships is to provide a livable stipend and advertise it clearly in promotion materials,” the federal group said in its Equity Action Plan. “Many units include a statement directly in their internship description about their commitment to equity. They also are intentional about making the application process simple and transparent, offering access services for interviews and allowing for multiple formats in place of a required essay.” The Smithsonian Institution , the federal steward of America’s past, also promised to begin promoting a historical framework that emphasizes American racism in the past and today. The federal group pledged to “Address the historical roots and contemporary impacts of race and racism in the United States and globally through interdisciplinary scholarship, creative partnerships, dialogue, education, and engagement.” The Center Square has reported on other examples of DEI policies and grants becoming the norm in recent years as well, though much of this kind of spending began before the Biden-Harris administration took power. Those include: $2.6 million in taxpayer dollars to train students to promote critical race theory. Millions to train school teachers in DEI ideology around race and gender. A portion of New York's $9 billion in federal COVID funding was spent training staff in ‘privilege’ and to recognize ‘equity warriors,’" among other related themes. $1.2 million for research find evidence that racism is the culprit for minorities struggling to sleep at night.Max Stock Limited Announces Change in Shares Held by an Interested Party