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O nce in an interview, a woman remarked, “You must be an avid reader.” I replied in the affirmative. Then she asked me about my favourite book. I told her that I do not read books as such. She was perplexed and held that today’s generation has lost a taste for reading. I explained to her that digital sources have made the job of finding suitable content simpler. So, I was a reader but not a book-reader, in the traditional sense. Her surprise reminded me of the prudes obsessed with the printed book. Some people have abhorred the idea of e-books and blogs replacing the good old books. They have argued that new media lacks the potential to help learning in the way books have done so far. Apart from ridiculing today’s generation for losing interest in reading and wasting their time on screens, some have mocked their intelligence quotient. But, this obsession with books does not make sense to me. Ultimately, books are a medium of exchange of ideas. We must give primacy to the ideas and not the medium. Media have kept pace with the change in technology. In ancient times, people used to transmit knowledge through verbal medium, apart from inscribing on the materials available then. Then, the paper was invented and documentation became easier. The invention of the printing press brought about another revolution and then came the computers. This change not only reflects the technological progress but also the democratisation of information that followed it. But the transformation is seldom smooth due to the cultural lag. People have always resisted the changes that compel them out of their comfort zones. Think about the opposition to the printing press during medieval times. The opposition to digital content could be viewed with a similar lens. Traditional book lovers need to realise that printed books were a revolution of their time and the digital media of today is its successor. Digital media has made a plethora of content accessible to the masses in the remotest areas. Now, information is no longer a monopoly of the few on the privileged premises. Not only content consumption but also its creation is getting decentralised. This has also led to a rise in questions about quality and credibility. So, when a journalist told me that research has become easier, I disagreed with him. I said it had become even more difficult to separate the wheat from the chaff. Technology has made things accessible, not easier; it has made things faster, not accurate. But still, technology has its merits anyway. Every change comes with its own challenges. But, Ajahn Brahm has said, “Complaining is finding faults, wisdom is finding solutions.” If the benefits outweigh the losses, then why not accept the change? In the words of Shaw, “Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.” emailtoaakashbajpai@gmail.com Published - December 01, 2024 03:52 am IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit

AT&T to Release Fourth-Quarter 2024 Earnings on January 27Lizzo just dropped new selfie pictures on social media and fans can't stop talking about her new snatched look. Hitting the angles in a series of four photos shared on Nov. 22, the “Good as Hell” singer posed from a car seat dressed in a sheer white crop top with an embroidered jean skirt that had a sheer white bottom to match. She complimented the look with two long braids. “Last night I wore milkmaid braids,” Lizzo captioned the post with the tongue-out emoji. She appeared to be out with her mom, based on a follow-up . In the comment section of the post, several Instagram users wrote that Lizzo looked “beautiful.” “Baby that face card ain’t ever declining. EVER!!!!” one user wrote with heart-eyes emoji. Another commented, “The cheekbones are cheekboning.” “Always been that girl,” another wrote, also adding heart-eyes emoji. Some users also commented that Lizzo appeared to have lost weight in the pictures, compared to her previous social media posts. One user wrote, “whew girl !! you looking skinny!! still beautiful both ways . love it.” Lizzo has been open with fans about her , sharing recipes, workouts and healthy habits on her social media pages. Earlier this year, the singer told that she’s on a “natural weight-loss journey,” that has led her to be “methodical, losing weight very slowly.” In September, Lizzo took to social media to call out rumors that she had taken a weight loss medication to achieve results. “When you finally get ozempic allegations after 5 months of weight training and calorie deficit,” Lizzo wrote over a short selfie video. The following month, Lizzo poked fun at the Ozempic allegations, as well as a by dressing as . The singer donned a costume that bore the title of her namesake weight-loss drug from the cartoon, along with a measuring tape around the waist. She posted an ad for her made up drug on , adding a caption which read, “Need self love? Try Lizzo! Lose guilt. Gain confidence.” While Lizzo has been a face for body positivity in the entertainment industry, the singer has also commented on the reality of the movement. “The idea of body positivity, it’s moved away from the antiquated mainstream conception. It’s evolved into body neutrality,” Lizzo told The New York Times. “I’m not going to lie and say I love my body every day,” she continued. “The bottom line is, the way you feel about your body changes every single day. There are some days I adore my body, and others when I don’t feel completely positive.” Becca Wood is a news and trending reporter for TODAY Digital based in New York City. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter.

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VANCOUVER - Global Affairs Canada is warning Canadians in South Korea to avoid demonstrations and exercise caution after the country’s president imposed an hours-long period of martial law. The situation in South Korea arose after President Yoon Suk Yeol imposed martial law on Tuesday, vowing to eliminate what he described as “anti-state” forces from the opposition that controls parliament. Yoon’s declaration triggered tense political drama, as troops surrounded the parliament while 190 lawmakers gathered inside to vote to lift the martial law shortly after it was imposed. Global Affairs Canada has not raised the risk level for Canadians in South Korea but did ask those in the country to monitor local media for the latest information, while following authorities’ instructions, such as curfew orders. A Vancouver-based travel agent says the chaos in Seoul is not likely to have a major effect on Canadian visitor numbers to South Korea. Glynnis Chan, owner of Happy Times Travel, says the martial law dissolved quickly and will likely have minimal impact on people’s travel plans, which tend to be made at least two months in advance. “There’s always some sort of impact, but it really depends on what happens with the situation over the long term,” Chan says. “If nothing more happens, people forget after a week or so about what took place.” Chan says she is not expecting any impact on her business, since Japan is a more popular destination among her customers. Several Korean-Canadian travel agencies in Metro Vancouver declined to comment on the political situation in Seoul. After Yoon’s declaration of martial law, hundreds of protesters gathered in front of the national assembly, waving banners and calling for Yoon’s impeachment, while others scuffled with military troops. The South Korean parliamentary members eventually voted to lift the declaration, with national assembly Speaker Woo Won Shik declaring it “invalid.” Police and military personnel were then seen leaving the assembly’s grounds after Woo’s call for their withdrawal. Jae-Yeon Lim, vice-president of the Canada Korea Business Association, says seeing military personnel clash with protesters and lawmakers brought back “harrowing” memories of the 1980 student-led demonstrations in Gwangju that were violently suppressed. Yoon’s move was the first declaration of martial law since the country’s democratization in 1987, and South Korea’s last previous martial law was in October 1979. “It has been a very difficult experience to see that,” Lim says of the latest martial law declaration. “But that said, I’m really happy to see that ... the national assembly managed to get the majority vote to repeal this, and they managed to do that at the risk of their own lives, even though military was there. “This is a country that will stand up for democracy.” Lim also says there would likely be little impact on bilateral relations or trade between the two countries stemming from the sudden onset of political drama, given how quickly martial law was lifted. “It’s not going to stop business from seeking to expand in Canada,” Lim says. “There’s still a very strong interest to do so from many businesses (in South Korea). “We have yet to see what will happen next, but I think that I’m a little bit reassured in seeing what has transpired ... that people are ready to defend their country and democratic rule-of-law.” — With files from The Associated Press This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 3, 2024.Game Changing Technologies Granted a Gaming License by the Peoria Tribal Gaming Commission

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Illumina’s Jacob Thaysen Describes His First Year as CEOHezbollah fired into a disputed border zone held by Israel on Monday after multiple Israeli strikes inside Lebanon since a ceasefire took hold last week. The militant group said the volley, its first during the truce, was a warning shot in response to what it called repeated Israeli violations . Israeli leaders threatened to retaliate, and within hours, Israel’s military carried out a string of strikes in southern Lebanon, state media reported. There was no immediate word on casualties or what was struck. Israel has said its strikes in since the ceasefire began Wednesday have been in response to unspecified Hezbollah violations, and that under the truce deal it reserves the right to retaliate. Hezbollah began launching its attacks in solidarity with Hamas militants who are fighting Israel in the Gaza Strip. The war in Gaza began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking around 250 people hostage . Israel’s blistering retaliatory offensive has killed at least 44,429 Palestinians , more than half of them women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not say how many of the dead were combatants. Israel says it has killed over 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. The war in Gaza has destroyed vast areas of the coastal enclave and displaced 90% of the population of 2.3 million, often multiple times . Here’s the Latest: WASHINGTON — U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is demanding the immediate release of Israeli hostages still being held in Gaza, saying that if they are not freed before he is sworn into office for a second term there will be “HELL TO PAY.” “Please let this TRUTH serve to represent that if the hostages are not released prior to January 20, 2025, the date that I proudly assume Office as President of the United States, there will be ALL HELL TO PAY in the Middle East, and for those in charge who perpetrated these atrocities against Humanity,” Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social site . He added that, “Those responsible will be hit harder than anybody has been hit in the long and storied History of the United States of America. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW!” It was not immediately clear whether Trump was threatening to directly involve the U.S. military in Israel’s ongoing campaign against Hamas in Gaza. Trump allies have said he hopes there will be a ceasefire and hostage release deal before he returns to office early next year. The war in Gaza began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking around 250 people hostage on Oct. 7, 2023. Some 100 are still held inside Gaza , around two-thirds believed to be alive. WASHINGTON — Senior American officials have had conversations with Israelis to raise questions about some of the strikes they have carried out against Hezbollah since a ceasefire went into place but have not found the Israelis to be in gross violation of the terms of the ceasefire, according to a U.S. official familiar with the matter. The official, who was not authorized to comment publicly about the sensitive conversations with the Israelis, said those conversations were part of a mechanism that was created to ensure that ceasefire agreement is implemented. “This is that mechanism working,” the official added. White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Monday that “largely speaking the ceasefire is holding.” “We’ve gone from, you know dozens of strikes, you know, down to one a day maybe two a day,” Kirby told told reporters aboard Air Force One as President Joe Biden made his way for a visit to Angola. “That’s a tremendous, tremendous reduction. And we’re going to keep trying and see what we can do to get it down to zero so that both sides are fully implementing it. But, this is, this is the only it’s only a, a week or so old.” — By Aamer Madhani JERUSALEM — Hezbollah fired into a disputed border zone held by Israel on Monday, the militant group’s first attack since its ceasefire with Israel took hold last week, after Lebanon accused Israel of violating the truce more than 50 times in recent days. The Israeli military said two projectiles were launched toward Mount Dov, a disputed Israeli-held territory known as Shebaa Farms in Lebanon, where the borders of Lebanon, Syria, and Israel meet. Israel said the projectiles fell in open areas and no injuries were reported. Hezbollah said in a statement that it fired on an Israeli military position in the area as a “defensive and warning response” after what it called “repeated violations” of the ceasefire deal by Israel. It said complaints to mediators tasked with monitoring the ceasefire “were futile in stopping these violations.” The U.S.- and French-brokered ceasefire came into effect on Wednesday calling for a 60-day halt in fighting, aiming to end more than a year of exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and Israel. Since then, Israel has carried out a number of strikes in Lebanon, most recently on Monday, when a drone strike killed a man on a motorcycle in southern Lebanon and another hit a Lebanese army bulldozer in the northeastern town of Hermel, wounding a soldier. The Lebanese army had stayed on the sidelines of the war between Israel and Hezbollah. Israel says the strikes are in response to Hezbollah violations of the ceasefire, without giving specifics. BEIRUT — Lebanon’s parliament speaker on Monday accused Israel of committing 54 breaches of the ceasefire that ended the war between Hezbollah and Israel, demanding urgent intervention to halt what he called “flagrant violations.” Speaking to the Lebanese newspaper Al Joumhouria, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri condemned Israel’s “aggressive actions,” including the alleged demolition of homes in border villages, the persistent overflight of Israeli reconnaissance drones, and airstrikes that have caused casualties. The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Berri’s assertions. Israel says it reserves the right under the ceasefire deal to respond to perceived ceasefire violations. An Israeli drone strike on Monday hit a Lebanese army military bulldozer in the northeastern town of Hermel, wounding a soldier, the Lebanese army said in a statement. Also on Monday, an Israeli drone strike targeting a motorcycle in Jdeidet Marjayoun in southern Lebanon killed one person, the Lebanese Health Ministry said. In Bint Jbeil province, a drone strike injured one person, the state-run National News Agency said. On Saturday, two people were killed in an airstrike on Marjayoun province, Lebanon’s state media said. Berri called on the technical committee established to monitor the ceasefire to take immediate action, urging it to “oblige Israel to halt its violations and withdraw from Lebanese territories without delay.” He said that Lebanon and Hezbollah have fully adhered to the terms of the ceasefire since the early hours of Wednesday. Berri is the leader of the Shiite Amal movement, which is closely allied with the Shiite militant group Hezbollah. BEIRUT — Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency said Monday one person was killed in an Israeli drone strike that hit a motorcycle, while the Lebanese army said that a soldier was wounded in an Israeli strike on a military bulldozer at an army base. The Israeli military said that it carried out a series of strikes in Lebanon on Sunday and Monday, including one in the same area where the soldier was said to have been wounded. It said it struck several military vehicles in Lebanon’s Bekaa province as well as strikes on Hezbollah militants in southern Lebanon. The incidents underscored the fragility of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah reached after nearly 14 months of cross-border fighting. Since the ceasefire went into effect on Wednesday, Israel has struck several times in response to what it says have been ceasefire violations by Hezbollah. Lebanon has accused Israel of violating the deal but so far Hezbollah has not resumed its rocket fire. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on Monday rejected accusations that Israel is violating the tenuous ceasefire agreement, saying it was responding to Hezbollah violations. In a post on X, Saar said that he made that point in a call with his French counterpart, Jean-Noël Barrot. France, along with the U.S., helped broker the deal and is part of an international monitoring committee meant to ensure the sides uphold their commitments. Israel says that it reserves the right under the deal to respond to perceived ceasefire violations. TEL AVIV, Israel — The Israeli military said Monday an Israeli American soldier who was believed to have been taken hostage alive on Oct. 7, 2023, is now presumed to have been killed during Hamas’ attack and his body taken into Gaza. Neutra, 21, was a New York native who enlisted in the Israeli military and was captured when Hamas attacked southern Israel. Neutra’s parents, Ronen and Orna, led a public campaign while he was thought to be alive for their son’s freedom. They spoke at protests in the U.S. and Israel, addressed the Republican National Convention this year and kept up ties with the Biden administration in their crusade to secure their son’s release. In a statement announcing the death, the military did not say how it came to the conclusion over Neutra’s fate. He was one of seven American Israelis still held in Gaza, four of whom are now said to be dead. Hamas released a video of one, Edan Alexander, over the weekend, indicating he was still alive. In late summer, Israel said Hamas killed Hersh Goldberg-Polin , another prominent Israeli American hostage, along with five other captives, whose bodies the Israeli military recovered. The war in Gaza began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking around 250 hostage. Some 100 captives are still held inside Gaza , around two-thirds believed to be alive. Iraqi militias supported by Iran deployed in Syria on Monday to back the government’s counteroffensive against a surprise advance by insurgents who seized the largest city of Aleppo, a militia official and a war monitor said. Insurgents led by jihadi group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham launched a two-pronged attack on Aleppo last week and the countryside around Idlib before moving toward neighboring Hama province. Government troops built a fortified defensive line in northern Hama in an attempt to stall the insurgents’ momentum while jets on Sunday pounded rebel-held lines. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Syrian President Bashar Assad in Damascus Sunday and announced Tehran’s full support for his government. He later arrived for talks in Ankara, Turkey, one of the rebels' main backers. Iran has been of Assad’s principal political and military supporters and deployed military advisers and forces after 2011 protests against Assad’s rule turned into an all-out war. Tehran-backed Iraqi militias already in Syria mobilized and additional forces crossed the border to support them, said the Iraqi militia official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media. According to Britain-based opposition war monitor the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, some 200 Iraqi militiamen on pickups crossed into Syria overnight through the strategic Bou Kamal. They were expected to deploy in Aleppo to support the Syrian army’s pushback against the insurgents, the monitor said. DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — U.S. Navy destroyers shot down seven missiles and drones fired by Yemen’s Houthi rebels at the warships and three American merchant vessels they were escorting through the Gulf of Aden. No damage or injuries were reported. U.S. Central Command said late Sunday that the destroyers USS Stockdale and USS O’Kane shot down and destroyed three anti-ship ballistic missiles, three drones and one anti-ship cruise missile. The merchant ships were not identified. The Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement and said they had targeted the U.S. destroyers and “three supply ships belonging to the American army in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden.” Houthi attacks for months have targeted shipping through a waterway where $1 trillion in goods pass annually over the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and Israel’s ground offensive in Lebanon. A ceasefire was announced in Lebanon last week. The USS Stockdale was involved in a similar attack on Nov. 12 . Read more of the AP's coverage of the Middle East wars: https://apnews.com/hub/mideast-warsTop Democrats Vow to Make California Affordable Again

Mohd Radzuan delivers his welcoming address. KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 4): The Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA) on Monday hosted the Takaful Leaders and Agents Summit (TLAS) 2024 at the Movenpick Hotel and Convention Centre in Sepang. This landmark event brought together approximately 500 participants, including agency leaders, takaful agents, and representatives from member companies. With the theme ‘Dare to Lead’, the summit provided a platform to celebrate leadership, inspire innovation, and foster professionalism within Malaysia’s Takaful industry marking its 40th anniversary this year. “The Takaful industry contributed approximately 4.5 per cent to Malaysia’s GDP in 2023, with a market share reaching 32 per cent of the overall insurance and Takaful sector in Malaysia,” said MTA chairman Elmie Aman Najas, emphasising the crucial role Takaful agents play in driving the industry forward. He emphasised how the agents play a pivotal role in driving sustainable business quality and raising awareness about financial protection, particularly through Family Takaful, which accounts for 42 per cent of new business premiums. TLAS 2024 was also a platform for strengthening industry partnerships with the signing of two key memorandums of understanding (MoU) with Universiti Sultan Azlan Shah (USAS) to enhance education and knowledge-sharing initiatives within the Takaful sector. A second MoU between MTA and Perfect 10 focuses on developing e-educational modules and tools to empower agents with enhanced service capabilities, improving customer experience. The summit featured breakout sessions dedicated to Family Takaful and General Takaful, offering participants tailored insights into navigating the evolving industry landscape. MTA chief executive officer Mohd Radzuan Mohamed in his welcoming speech lauded the contributions of Takaful agents, calling them the backbone of the industry. “Being an agent is not just a career; it is a noble role. Agents bring ease and relief to individuals, families, and businesses during times of hardship, illness, or misfortune. This social impact drives us all to remain committed to this meaningful industry,” he said. He highlighted the summit’s importance in motivating leaders and agents in their mission to promote the value of Takaful protection within the community. With over 120,000 Takaful agents driving outreach and growth, TLAS 2024 reinforced the sector’s critical role in Malaysia’s financial ecosystem. By celebrating its 40-year milestone, the summit not only inspired participants but also laid the foundation for continued collaboration, innovation, and excellence in the Takaful industry.Amorim predicts Man United pain as he faces up to huge taskArtificial intelligence tools and apps have become more integral to daily life (albeit with questions of what AI actually means and how ‘intelligent’ these systems actually are). As we use such technology more often, we need to mindful of their hidden risks. Research shows that 70 percent of users interact with AI without fully understanding the dangers of sharing personal information. A recent study identified nine key privacy harms, including data misuse, manipulation, and unauthorized sharing. Even more concerning, 38 percent of users unknowingly reveal sensitive details, putting themselves at risk of identity theft and fraud. How should consumers respond? To address such concerns, the firm TRG Datacenters has developed some advice aimed to assist users to protect their privacy while using AI tools. Beware of Social Media Trends Trends such as “Describe your personality based on what you know about me” may seem fun, but they can encourage you to share sensitive data like your birthdate, hobbies, or workplace. This information could be pieced together for identity theft or account recovery scams: • Safer: “What might a December birthday suggest about someone’s personality?” • Risky: “I was born on December 15th and love cycling—what does that say about me?” Do Not Share Identifiable Personal Data Providing details like your birthdate, favourite colour, or workplace can help cybercriminals bypass security measures. Frame your queries more broadly: • Safer: “What are traits of someone born in late autumn?” • Risky: “I was born on November 15th—what does that say about me?” Avoid Disclosing Sensitive Information About Your Children Nearly 48 percent of parents unintentionally share sensitive details such as their child’s name, school, or routine. This information can be exploited to target children or compromise their privacy: • Safer: “What are fun activities for young children on weekends?” • Risky: “What can I plan for my 8-year-old at XYZ School this weekend?” Never Share Financial Details According to government data, 32 percent of identity theft cases stem from online data sharing, including financial information. Avoid sharing exact numbers or patterns: • Safer: “What are the best strategies for saving for a vacation?” • Risky: “I save $500 per month. How much should I allocate to a trip?” Refrain From Sharing Personal Health Information Health data is frequently exploited in breaches, with over 80% of healthcare breaches linked to digital platform vulnerabilities. Avoid sharing personal medical histories or genetic risks: • Safer: “What are common symptoms of [condition]?” • Risky: “My family has a history of [condition]; am I at risk?” How to Stay Safe • Think Before You Share: Avoid combining identifiable details in queries (e.g., name, birthdate, and workplace). • Use Privacy-Safe Tools: Choose platforms with strong privacy features like “data deletion after sessions.” • Stick to Reputable Platforms: Ensure compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, or similar data protection laws. • Monitor for Breaches: Tools like HaveIBeenPwned can alert you to exposed data. Dr. Tim Sandle is Digital Journal's Editor-at-Large for science news.Tim specializes in science, technology, environmental, business, and health journalism. He is additionally a practising microbiologist; and an author. He is also interested in history, politics and current affairs.

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump is underscoring his intention to block the purchase of U.S. Steel by Japanese steelmaker Nippon Steel Corp. , and he's pledging to use tax incentives and tariffs to strengthen the iconic American steelmaker. Trump had vowed early in the presidential campaign that he would “instantaneously” block the deal, and he reiterated that sentiment in a post on his Truth Social platform on Monday night. “I am totally against the once great and powerful U.S. Steel being bought by a foreign company” and will use tax incentives and tariffs to make U.S. Steel “Strong and Great Again, and it will happen FAST!” he wrote. “As President," he continued, "I will block this deal from happening. Buyer Beware!!!” President Joe Biden , like Trump, also opposes Nippon Steel's purchase of Pittsburgh-based U.S. Steel. Biden’s White House in September said that it had yet to see a report from the secretive Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States , which was reviewing the transaction for national security concerns. The committee, which is chaired by the treasury secretary and includes other Cabinet members, can recommend that the president block a transaction, and federal law gives the president that power. Ahead of the November election, the proposed merger carried political importance in Pennsylvania, a critical swing state that Trump eventually won. Biden publicly sided with the United Steelworkers, the labor union, in seeking to reject the deal. When he announced his opposition in a March statement, Biden said: “U.S. Steel has been an iconic American steel company for more than a century, and it is vital for it to remain an American steel company that is domestically owned and operated.” Nippon Steel has said it is the only company that can make the necessary investment in U.S. Steel's factories and strengthen the American steel industry. Both Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel on Tuesday released statements in support of the acquisition. "This transaction should be approved on its merits. The benefits are overwhelmingly clear. Our communities, customers, investors, and employees strongly support this transaction, and we will continue to advocate for them and adherence to the rule of law," U.S. Steel said. The deal follows a long stretch of protectionist U.S. tariffs that analysts say has helped reinvigorate domestic steel, including U.S. Steel. U.S. Steel's shareholders have approved the deal, but the United Steelworkers oppose it. In a statement Tuesday, the union said the deal carries “serious long-term implications for U.S. economic and national security.” “It’s clear that President Trump understands the vital role a strong domestic steel industry plays in our national security, as well as the importance of the jobs and communities the industry supports," the union said. The deal has drawn bipartisan opposition in the U.S. Senate, including from the incoming vice president, Republican Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, although the federal government's objections to the deal have drawn criticism that the opposition is political. Some U.S. Steel workers would prefer Nippon Steel acquire the company, given that it appears to have a better financial balance sheet than another potential buyer, Cleveland-Cliffs. U.S. Steel “provided a very, very good life for our families for a lot of years,” said Jack Maskil, a vice president at the Steelworkers local branch in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania. “And we feel that with the Nippon deal that a lot more families for futures to come will be able to share the same.” West Mifflin Mayor Chris Kelly said he met with Nippon Steel executives and found himself satisfied by their commitments. Located southeast of Pittsburgh, West Mifflin is home to U.S. Steel's Mon Valley Works–Irvin Plant. “There’s no question in my mind that it’s the best deal moving forward,” Kelly said at a panel hosted on Tuesday by the conservative think tank Hudson Institute, where Maskil was also speaking. The Biden administration committee vetting the merger is scheduled later this month to decide on the acquisition or possibly extend the ongoing review. William Chou, a deputy director at the Hudson Institute specializing in relations with Japan, said that "President-elect Trump's view on the deal are important." But given the upcoming deadline, “It's up to President Biden to recognize how this deal will advance the interests of future generations of U.S. Steel union steelworkers.” Trump’s statement came two weeks after Nippon Steel’s vice chairman, Takahiro Mori, visited Pittsburgh and Washington to meet with lawmakers, local officials and workers in an ongoing persuasion campaign. That campaign has included Nippon Steel's promises to boost its capital commitments beyond the original deal and, more recently, a pledge that it won’t import steel slabs that would compete with U.S. Steel’s blast furnaces. As part of its proposed $14.9 billion purchase of U.S. Steel, Nippon Steel also pledged to invest at least $1.4 billion in USW-represented facilities, not to conduct layoffs or plant closings during the term of the basic labor agreement, and to protect the best interests of U.S. Steel in trade matters. Boak reported from Washington.

LONDON — Olivia Hussey, the actor who starred as a teenage Juliet in the 1968 film "Romeo and Juliet," died, her family said on social media Saturday. She was 73. Hussey died Friday "peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones," a statement posted to her Instagram account said. Hussey was 15 when director Franco Zeffirelli cast her in his adaptation of the William Shakespeare tragedy after spotting her onstage in the play "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie," which also starred Vanessa Redgrave. "Romeo and Juliet" won two Oscars and Hussey won a Golden Globe for best new actress for her part as Juliet, opposite British actor Leonard Whiting, who was 16 at the time. "Romeo and Juliet" movie director Franco Zeffirelli, left, and actors Olivia Hussey, center, and Leonard Whiting are seen Sept. 25, 1968, in Paris after the Parisian premiere of the film. Decades later Hussey and Whiting brought a lawsuit against Paramount Pictures alleging sexual abuse, sexual harassment and fraud over nude scenes in the film. They alleged they were initially told they would wear flesh-colored undergarments in a bedroom scene, but on the day of the shoot Zeffirelli told the pair they would wear only body makeup and the camera would be positioned in a way that would not show nudity. They alleged they were filmed in the nude without their knowledge. The case was dismissed by a Los Angeles County judge in 2023, who found their depiction could not be considered child pornography and the pair filed their claim too late. Leonard Whiting, left, and Olivia Hussey arrive April 26, 2018, at the screening of "The Producers" at the 2018 TCM Classic Film Festival Opening Night at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles. Whiting was among those who paid tribute to Hussey on Saturday. "Rest now my beautiful Juliet no injustices can hurt you now," he wrote. "And the world will remember your beauty inside and out forever." Hussey was born April 17, 1951, in Bueno Aires, Argentina, and moved to London as a child. She studied at the Italia Conti Academy drama school. She also starred as Mary, the mother of Jesus, in the 1977 television series "Jesus of Nazareth," as well as the 1978 adaptation of Agatha Christie's "Death on the Nile" and horror movies "Black Christmas" and "Psycho IV: The Beginning." She is survived by her husband, David Glen Eisley, her three children and a grandson. Photos: Notable deaths in 2024 Glynis Johns Glynis Johns, a Tony Award-winning stage and screen star who played the mother opposite Julie Andrews in the classic movie “Mary Poppins” and introduced the world to the bittersweet standard-to-be “Send in the Clowns” by Stephen Sondheim, died, Thursday, Jan. 4, 2023. She was 100. Adan Canto Adan Canto, the Mexican singer and actor best known for his roles in “X-Men: Days of Future Past” and “Agent Game” as well as the TV series “The Cleaning Lady,” “Narcos,” and “Designated Survivor,” died Monday, Jan. 8, 2024, after a private battle with appendiceal cancer. He was 42. Bud Harrelson Bud Harrelson, the scrappy and sure-handed shortstop who fought Pete Rose on the field during a playoff game and helped the New York Mets win an astonishing championship, died Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024. He was 79. The Mets said that Harrelson died at a hospice house in East Northport, New York after a long battle with Alzheimer's. Dejan Milojevic Golden State Warriors assistant coach Dejan Milojević, a mentor to two-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic and a former star player in his native Serbia, died Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, after suffering a heart attack, the team announced. He was 46. Jack Burke Jack Burke Jr., the oldest living Masters champion who staged the greatest comeback ever at Augusta National for one of his two majors, died Friday, Jan. 19, 2024, in Houston. He was 100. Mary Weiss Mary Weiss, the lead singer of the 1960s pop group the Shangri-Las, whose hits included “The Leader of the Pack,” died Friday, Jan. 19, 2024, in Palm Springs, Calif. She was 75. Norman Jewison Norman Jewison, a three-time Oscar nominee who in 1999 received an Academy Award for lifetime achievement, died “peacefully” Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024, according to publicist Jeff Sanderson. He was 97. Charles Osgood Charles Osgood, who anchored “CBS Sunday Morning” for more than two decades, hosted the long-running radio program “The Osgood File” and was referred to as CBS News’ poet-in-residence, died Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2024. He was 91. Melanie Safka Melanie, a singer-songwriter behind 1970s hits including “Brand New Key,” died Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2024. She was 76. Born Melanie Safka, the singer rose through the New York folk scene and was one of only three solo women to perform at Woodstock. Her hits included “Lay Down” and “Look What They've Done to My Song Ma.” Chita Rivera Chita Rivera, the dynamic dancer, singer and actress who garnered 10 Tony nominations, winning twice, in a long Broadway career that forged a path for Latina artists, died Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024. She was 91. Carl Weathers Carl Weathers, a former NFL linebacker who became a Hollywood action movie and comedy star, playing nemesis-turned-ally Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” movies, facing-off against Arnold Schwarzenegger in “Predator” and teaching golf in “Happy Gilmore,” died Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024. He was 76. Wayne Kramer Wayne Kramer, the co-founder of the protopunk Detroit band the MC5 that thrashed out such hardcore anthems as “Kick Out the Jams” and influenced everyone from the Clash to Rage Against the Machine, died Friday, Feb. 2, 2024. at Cedars-Sinai hospital in Los Angeles, according to Jason Heath, a close friend and executive director of Kramer's charity, Jail Guitar Doors. Heath said the cause of death was pancreatic cancer. He was 75. Ian Lavender Actor Ian Lavender, who played a hapless Home Guard soldier in the classic British sitcom “Dad’s Army,” died Monday, Feb. 5, 2024. He was 77. Toby Keith Country music singer-songwriter Toby Keith, whose pro-American anthems were both beloved and criticized, died Monday, Feb. 5, 2024. He was 62. Henry Fambrough Henry Fambrough, the last surviving original member of the iconic R&B group The Spinners, whose hits included “It’s a Shame,” “Could It Be I’m Falling In Love,” and “The Rubberband Man,” died Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024, of natural causes, according to a statement from his spokeswoman. He was 85. Bob Edwards Bob Edwards, right, the news anchor many Americans woke up to as founding host of National Public Radio's “Morning Edition” for nearly a quarter-century, died Saturday, Feb. 10, 20243. He was 76. He's shown here with sports announcer Red Barber. Don Gullett Don Gullett, a former major league pitcher and coach who played for four consecutive World Series champions in the 1970s, died Feb. 14. He was 73. He finished his playing career with a 109-50 record playing for the Cincinnati Reds and New York Yankees. Lefty Driesell Lefty Driesell, the coach whose folksy drawl belied a fiery on-court demeanor that put Maryland on the college basketball map and enabled him to rebuild several struggling programs, died Feb. 17, 2024, at age 92. Andreas Brehme Germany players celebrate after Andreas Brehme, left on ground, scores the winning goal in the World Cup soccer final match against Argentina, in the Olympic Stadium, in Rome, July 8, 1990. Andreas Brehme, who scored the only goal as West Germany beat Argentina to win the 1990 World Cup final, died Feb. 20, 2024. He was 63. Golden Richards Despite the effort of Denver Broncos defensive back Steve Foley (43), Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Golden Richards hauls in a touchdown pass during NFL football's Super Bowl 12 in New Orleans on Jan 15, 1978. Richards died Friday, Feb. 23, 2024, of congestive heart failure at his home in Murray, Utah. He was 73. Richards' nephew Lance Richards confirmed his death in a post on his Facebook page. Richard Lewis Comedian Richard Lewis attends an NBA basketball game in Los Angeles on Dec. 25, 2012. Lewis, an acclaimed comedian known for exploring his neuroses in frantic, stream-of-consciousness diatribes while dressed in all-black, leading to his nickname “The Prince of Pain,” died Feb. 27, 2024. He was 76. He died at his home in Los Angeles on Tuesday night after suffering a heart attack, according to his publicist Jeff Abraham. Nikolai Ryzhkov Former Soviet Prime Minister Nikolai Ryzhkov attends a session of the Federation Council, Russian parliament's upper house, in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, June 25, 2014. Ryzhkov, former Soviet prime minister who presided over failed efforts to shore up the crumbling economy in the final years before the collapse of the USSR, died Feb. 28, 2024, at age 94. Brian Mulroney Brian Mulroney, the former prime minister of Canada, listens during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on the Canada-U.S.-Mexico relationship, Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2018, on Capitol Hill in Washington. Mulroney died at the age of 84 on Feb. 29, 2024. Akira Toriyama Akira Toriyama is pictured in 1982. Toriyama, the creator of one of Japan's best-selling “Dragon Ball” and other popular anime who influenced Japanese comics, died March 1, 2024. He was 68. Iris Apfel Iris Apfel, a textile expert, interior designer and fashion celebrity known for her eccentric style, died March 1, 2024, at 102. Andy Russell Andy Russell, the standout linebacker who was an integral part of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ evolution from perennial losers to champions, died Feb. 29, 2024. He was 82. Russell won two Super Bowls during a 12-year NFL career between 1963-76 that was briefly interrupted by a stint in the military. Russell played in 168 consecutive games and spent 10 years as a team captain. He was named to the Pro Bowl seven times. Russell remained active in the Pittsburgh community after retiring, writing several books and launching the Andy Russell Charitable Foundation. Ed Ott Pittsburgh Pirates' Ed Ott slides across home late out of reach of Orioles catcher Rick Dempsey to score the winning run in the ninth inning of Game 2 of the World Series at Baltimore, Oct. 11, 1979. Ott, a former major league catcher and coach who helped the Pittsburgh Pirates win the 1979 World Series, died March 3, 2024. He was 72. He batted .259 with 33 homers and 195 RBIs in 567 major league games. Ott and Steve Nicosia were the main catchers when the Pirates won it all in 1979. Chris Mortensen In a photo supplied by ESPN, Chris Mortensen appears on the set of Sunday NFL Countdown at ESPN's studios in Bristol, Conn., on Sept. 22, 2019. Mortensen, the award-winning journalist who covered the NFL for close to four decades, including 32 as a senior analyst at ESPN, died March 3, 2024. He was 72. Mortensen announced in 2016 that he he had been diagnosed with throat cancer. Even while undergoing treatment, he was the first to confirm the retirement of Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning. Mortensen announced his retirement after the NFL draft last year so that he could “focus on my health, family and faith.” Steve Lawrence Singer Steve Lawrence, left, and his wife Eydie Gorme arrive at a black-tie gala called honoring Frank Sinatra in Las Vegas on May 30, 1998. Lawrence, a singer and top stage act who as a solo performer and in tandem with his wife Gorme kept Tin Pan Alley alive during the rock era, died Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at age 88. Gorme died on Aug. 10, 2013. Naomi Barber King Martin Luther King III, right, the son of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., walks with his daughter Yolanda, and Naomi Barber King, left, the wife of Rev. King's brother, A.D., through an exhibition devoted to the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to King at the Martin Luther King Jr. Historical Site, Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2014, in Atlanta. Civil rights activist Naomi Barber King died Thursday, March 7, 2024, in Atlanta, according to family members. She was 92. Paul Alexander A Texas man who spent decades using an iron lung after contracting polio as a child died March 11, 2024, at the age of 78. Paul Alexander's longtime friend Daniel Spinks says Alexander died Monday at a Dallas hospital. Spinks called his friend one of the "bright stars of the world.” Friends of Alexander, who graduated from law school and had a career as an attorney, say he was a man who had a great joy for life. Alexander was a child when he began using an iron lung, a cylinder that encased his body as the air pressure in the chamber forced air in and out of his lungs. Thomas P. Stafford Astronaut Thomas P. Stafford stands near the NASA Motor Vessel Retriever during training Aug. 23, 1965, in the Gulf of Mexico. Stafford, who commanded a dress rehearsal flight for the 1969 moon landing and the first U.S.-Soviet space linkup, died March 18, 2024, at 93. Chris Simon New York Rangers' Chris Simon celebrates his second-period goal against the New York Islanders, Thursday, Feb. 26, 2004, at Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, N.Y. Former NHL enforcer Chris Simon has died. He was 52. Simon died March 18, 2024, according to a spokesperson for the NHL Players' Association. M. Emmet Walsh M. Emmet Walsh arrives at the 2014 Film Independent Spirit Awards, March 1, 2014, in Santa Monica, Calif. Walsh, the character actor who brought his unmistakable face and unsettling presence to films including “Blood Simple” and “Blade Runner,” died March 19, 2024, at age 88, his manager said Wednesday. Laurent de Brunhoff "Babar" author Laurent de Brunhoff, who revived his father's popular picture book series about an elephant-king, has died at 98 after being in hospice care for two weeks. De Brunhoff was a Paris native who moved to the U.S. in the 1980s. He died March 22, 2024, at his home in Key West, Florida. Just 12 years old when his father, Jean de Brunhoff, died of tuberculosis, Laurent drew upon his own gifts as a painter and storyteller and as an adult released dozens of books about the elephant who reigns over Celesteville, among them "Babar at the Circus" and "Babar's Yoga for Elephants." Obit Angelos Baseball Longtime Baltimore Orioles owner Peter Angelos has died at the age of 94. His family announced in a statement that Angelos, who had been ill for several years, died March 23, 2024. Angelos was owner of an Orioles team that endured long losing stretches and shrewd proprietor of a law firm that won high-profile cases against industry titans such as tobacco giant Philip Morris. Angelos’ death came as his son, John, was in the process of selling the Orioles to a group headed by Carlyle Group Inc. co-founder David Rubenstein. Peter Angelos purchased the team for $173 million in 1993, at the time the highest for a sports franchise. His public role diminished significantly in his final years. Joe Lieberman Democratic presidential candidate Al Gore, left, and his running mate, vice presidential candidate Sen. Joe Lieberman of Connecticut, wave to supporters Oct. 25, 2000, at a campaign rally in Jackson, Tenn. Lieberman died March 27, 2024. He was 82 and died Wednesday of complications from a fall. Lieberman nearly won the vice presidency on Democrat Al Gore's ticket in the disputed 2000 White House race. Eight years later, he came close to joining the GOP ticket as John McCain’s running mate. The Democrat-turned-independent stepped down from the Senate in January 2013 after 24 years. His independent streak often irked Senate Democrats he aligned with. Yet his support for gay rights, civil rights, abortion rights and environmental causes at times won him the praise of many liberals over the years. Louis Gossett Jr. Louis Gossett Jr., the first Black man to win a supporting actor Oscar and an Emmy winner for his role in the seminal TV miniseries “Roots,” died March 28, 2024. He was 87. Gossett always thought of his early career as a reverse Cinderella story, with success finding him from an early age and propelling him forward, toward his Academy Award for “An Officer and a Gentleman.” He also was a star on Broadway, replacing Billy Daniels in “Golden Boy” with Sammy Davis Jr. in 1964 and recently played an obstinate patriarch in the 2023 remake of “The Color Purple.” Joe Flaherty Former cast members of SCTV, from left, Dave Thomas, Joe Flaherty, Catherine O'Hara, Andrea Martin, foreground, Harold Ramis, Eugene Levy and Martin Short, pose at the U.S. Comedy Arts Festival on March 6, 1999, in Aspen, Colo. Flaherty, a founding member of the Canadian sketch series “SCTV,” died Monday, April 1, 2024 at age 82. John Sinclair John Sinclair talks at the John Sinclair Foundation Café and Coffeeshop, Dec. 26, 2018, in Detroit. Sinclair, a poet, music producer and counterculture figure whose lengthy prison sentence after a series of small-time pot busts inspired a John Lennon song and a star-studded 1971 concert to free him, has died at age 82. Sinclair died Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at Detroit Receiving Hospital of congestive heart failure following an illness, his publicist Matt Lee said. Larry Lucchino Boston Red Sox president Larry Lucchino, right, tips his cap to fans as majority owner John Henry holds the 2013 World Series championship trophy during a parade in celebration of the baseball team's win, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2013, in Boston. Larry Lucchino, the force behind baseball’s retro ballpark revolution and the transformation of the Boston Red Sox from cursed losers to World Series champions, has died. He was 78. Lucchino had suffered from cancer. The Triple-A Worcester Red Sox, his last project in a career that also included three major league baseball franchises and one in the NFL, confirmed his death on Tuesday, April 2, 2024. Christopher Durang Playwright Christopher Durang appears on stage with producers to accept the award for best play for "Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike" at the 67th Annual Tony Awards, on June 9, 2013 in New York. Also on stage are actors, background from left, Shalita Grant, Kristine Nielsen and Billy Magnussen. Durang died Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at his home in Pipersville, Pennsylvania, of complications from logopenic primary progressive aphasia. He was 75. Jerry Grote In this Oct. 16, 1969 file photo, New York Mets catcher Jerry Grote, right, embraces pitcher Jerry Koosman as Ed Charles, left, joins the celebration after the Mets defeated the Baltimore Orioles in the Game 5 to win the baseball World Series at New York's Shea Stadium. Grote, the catcher who helped transform the New York Mets from a perennial loser into the 1969 World Series champion, died Sunday, April 7, 2024. He was 81. Schappell Twins In this July 8, 2003 photo, Lori, left, and George Schappell, conjoined twins, are photographed in their Reading, Pa., apartment. Lori and George Schappell, who pursued separate careers, interests and relationships during lives that defied medical expectations, died April 7, 2024, at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. They were 62. Peter Higgs The University of Edinburgh says Nobel prize-winning physicist Peter Higgs, who proposed the existence of a sub-atomic particle that came to be known as the Higgs boson, died April 8, 2024, at 94. Higgs predicted the existence of the particle in 1964. But it would be almost 50 years before the its existence could be confirmed at a particle collider in Switzerland called the Large Hadron Collider. Higgs’ work helps scientists understand of the most fundamental riddles of the universe: how the Big Bang created something out of nothing 13.7 billion years ago. Higgs won the 2013 Nobel Prize in Physics for his work, alongside Francois Englert of Belgium. Ralph Puckett Jr. A retired U.S. Army colonel who was awarded the Medal of Honor for heroism during the Korean War died April 8, 2024, at age 97. A funeral home says that Ralph Puckett Jr. died Monday at his home in Columbus, Georgia. President Joe Biden presented Puckett with the Medal of Honor in 2021, more than seven decades after Puckett was seriously wounded leading an outnumbered company of Army Rangers in battle. Puckett refused a medical discharge and served as an Army officer for another 20 years before retiring in 1971. Puckett received the U.S. military's highest honor from President Joe Biden on May 21, 2021, following a policy change that lifted a requirement for medals to be given within five years of a valorous act. O.J. Simpson O.J. Simpson, left, grimaces June 15, 1995, in a Los Angeles courtroom as he famously tries on one of the leather gloves prosecutors say he wore the night his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman were murdered. Simpson, t he decorated football star who was acquitted of charges he killed his former wife and her friend but wound up in prison years later in an unrelated case, died April 10, 2024. He was 76. His family made an announcement Thursday in a statement on Simpson's X account. Simpson said last year that he was battling prostate cancer. Simpson’s gridiron legacy was forever overshadowed by the 1994 knife slayings of Brown Simpson and Goldman. A criminal court jury found him not guilty of murder, but a separate civil trial jury found him liable. Simpson's nine-year prison stint in Nevada was for the armed robbery of two sports memorabilia dealers. Eleanor Coppola Francis Coppola and wife, Eleanor, pose July 16, 1991, in Los Angeles. Eleanor Coppola, who documented the making of some of her husband Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic films, including the infamously tortured production of “Apocalypse Now,” and who raised a family of filmmakers, has died. She was 87. Coppola died April 12, 2024, at home in Rutherford, California, her family announced in a statement. Eleanor, who grew in Orange County, California, met Francis while working as an assistant art director on his directorial debut, the Roger Corman-produced 1963 horror film “Dementia 13.” Their first-born, Gian-Carlo, quickly became a regular presence in his father’s films, as did their subsequent children, Roman, and Sofia. After acting in their father’s films and growing up on sets, all would go into the movies. Robert MacNeil Robert MacNeil, seen in February 1978, who created the even-handed, no-frills PBS newscast “The MacNeil-Lehrer NewsHour” in the 1970s and co-anchored the show for with his late partner, Jim Lehrer, for two decades, died April 12, 2024, at age 93. Faith Ringgold Artist Faith Ringgold poses for a portrait in front of a painted self-portrait during a press preview of her exhibition, "American People, Black Light: Faith Ringgold's Paintings of the 1960s" at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, June 19, 2013. Ringgold, an award-winning author and artist who broke down barriers for Black female artists and became famous for her richly colored and detailed quilts combining painting, textiles and storytelling, died Friday, April 12, 2024, at her home in Englewood, N.J. She was 93. Steve Sloan Alabama coach Bear Bryant, left, talks with his former star quarterback Steve Sloan, right, after practice in Miami for the Orange Bowl game New Years' night against Nebraska, Dec. 29, 1968. Former college coach and administrator Sloan, who played quarterback and served as athletic director at Alabama. has passed away. He was 79. Sloan died Sunday, April 14, 2024, after three months of memory care at Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital, according to an obituary from former Alabama sports information director Wayne Atcheson. Ken Holtzman Oakland A's pitcher Ken Holtzman poses for a photo in March 1975. Holtzman, who pitched two no-hitters for the Chicago Cubs and helped the Oakland Athletics win three straight World Series championships in the 1970s, died April 14, 2024. He finished with a career record of 174-150 over 15 season with four teams and was the winningest Jewish pitcher in baseball history. Carl Erskine Carl Erskine, center, pictured with teammate Duke Snider, left, and manager Charley Dressen in 1952, after beating the Yankees 6-5 in Game 5 of the World Series at Yankee Stadium in New York, Oct. 5, 1952. Erskine, who pitched two no-hitters for the Brooklyn Dodgers and was a 20-game winner in 1953 when he struck out a then-record 14 in the World Series, has died. Among the last survivors from the celebrated Brooklyn teams of the 1950s, Erskine spent his entire major league career with the Dodgers. He helped them win five National League pennants from 1948-59. Erskine won Game 3 of the 1953 World Series, beating the Yankees 3-2. He appeared in five World Series, with the Dodgers beating the Yankees in 1955 for their only championship in Brooklyn. Erksine died April 16 in his hometown of Anderson, Indiana, according to a hospital official. He was 97. Whitey Herzog St. Louis Cardinals manager Whitey Herzog lets umpire John Shulock, right, know how he feels about Shulock's call on the tag attempt on Kansas City Royals Jim Sundberg by Cardinals catcher Tom Nieto, second from left, in the second inning of Game 5 of the 1985 World Series in St. Louis. Herzog, the gruff and ingenious Hall of Fame manager who guided the St. Louis Cardinals to three pennants and a World Series title and perfected an intricate, nail-biting strategy known as “Whiteyball,” has died. Herzog, affectionately nicknamed “The White Rat,” was a manager for 18 seasons, compiling an overall record of 1,281 wins and 1,125 losses. He was named Manager of the Year in 1985. Under Herzog, the Cardinals won pennants in 1982, 1985 and 1987 and won the World Series in 1982, when they edged the Milwaukee Brewers in seven games. He died April 15, 2024, and was 92. Bob Graham Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Sen. Bob Graham, D-Fla., gestures as he answers questions regarding the ongoing security hearing on Capitol Hill, June 18, 2002, in Washington. Graham, who chaired the Intelligence Committee following the 2001 terrorist attacks and opposed the Iraq invasion, died April 16, 2024. He was 87. His family announced the death Tuesday in a statement posted on X by his daughter Gwen Graham. Graham served three terms in the Senate and two terms as Florida's governor. He made an unsuccessful bid for the 2004 Democratic presidential nomination, emphasizing his opposition to the Iraq invasion. But that bid was delayed by heart surgery in January 2003, and he was never able to gain enough traction with voters to catch up. He didn’t seek re-election in 2004 and was replaced by Republican Mel Martinez. Dickey Betts Guitar legend and Allman Brothers Band co-founder Dickey Betts died April 18, 2024, at age 80. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer wrote the band's biggest hit, “Ramblin’ Man.” Manager David Spero told The Associated Press that Betts died early Thursday at his home in Osprey, Florida. He says Betts had been battling cancer for more than a year and had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Betts shared lead guitar duties with Duane Allman in the original Allman Brothers Band to help give the group its distinctive sound and create a new genre: Southern rock. Acts ranging from Lynyrd Skynyrd to Kid Rock were influenced by the Allmans’ music, which combined blues, country, R&B and jazz with ’60s rock. Mandisa Contemporary Christian singer Mandisa, who appeared on “American Idol” and won a Grammy for her 2013 album “Overcomer,” died April 18, 2024. She was 47. Mandisa gained stardom after finishing ninth on “American Idol” in 2006. In 2014, she won a Grammy for best contemporary Christian music album for “Overcomer,” her fifth album. She spoke openly about her struggles with depression, releasing a memoir that detailed her experiences with severe depression, weight-related challenges, the coronavirus pandemic and her faith. David Pryor David Pryor, a former Arkansas governor and U.S. senator who was one of the state’s most beloved and active political figures, died April 20, 2024, at the age of 89. His son, former two-term Democratic U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor, says the Democrat died Saturday of natural causes in Little Rock surrounded by family. David Pryor was considered one of the Democratic party’s giants in Arkansas and remained active in public life after he left office, including serving on the University of Arkansas’s Board of Trustees. Roman Gabriel Roman Gabriel was known for his big size and big arm. He was the first Filipino-American quarterback in the NFL. And he still holds the Los Angeles Rams record for touchdown passes. Gabriel died April 20, 2024, at age 83. His son posted the news on social media. He says Gabriel died at home of natural causes. Gabriel starred at North Carolina State and was the No. 2 pick by the Rams in the 1962 draft. The Oakland Raider of the rival AFL made him the No. 1 pick. Gabriel signed with the Rams and later played with the Philadelphia Eagles. Andrew Davis Andrew Davis, an acclaimed British conductor who was music director of the Lyric Opera of Chicago and orchestras on three continents, died April 20, 2024. He was 80. Davis died Saturday at Rusk Institute in Chicago from leukemia. That is according to his manager, Jonathan Brill of Opus 3 Artists. Davis had been managing the disease for 1 1/2 to 2 years but it became acute shortly after his 80th birthday on Feb. 2. Davis was music director of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra from 1975-88, Britain’s Glyndebourne Festival from 1988-2000, chief conductor of the BBC Symphony Orchestra from 1989-2000, then was music director of the Lyric Opera from 2000-21. Terry Anderson Former hostage Terry Anderson waves to the crowd as he rides in a parade in Lorain, Ohio, June 22, 1992. Anderson, the globe-trotting Associated Press correspondent who became one of America’s longest-held hostages, died April 21, 2024. Anderson was snatched from a street in war-torn Lebanon in 1985 and held for nearly seven years. Anderson, who was tortured and chained to a wall, wrote about his experiences in the best-selling memoir, “Den of Lions.” After returning to the United States in 1991, Anderson gave public speeches, taught journalism and, at various times, operated a blues bar, Cajun restaurant, horse ranch and gourmet restaurant. He also struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder. Bill Gladden British army veteran Bill Gladden, who survived a glider landing on D-Day and a bullet that tore through his ankle a few days later, wanted to return to France for the 80th anniversary of the invasion so he could honor the men who didn’t come home. It was not to be. Gladden, one of the dwindling number of veterans who took part in the landings that kicked off the campaign to liberate Western Europe from the Nazis during World War II, died April 24, his family said. He was 100. With fewer and fewer veterans taking part each year, the ceremony may be one of the last big events marking the assault that began on June 6, 1944. Duane Eddy Duane Eddy, a pioneering guitar hero whose reverberating electric sound on instrumentals such as “Rebel Rouser,” “Forty Miles of Bad Road" and “Cannonball” helped put the twang in early rock ‘n’ roll and influenced George Harrison, Bruce Springsteen and countless other musicians, died April 30 at age 86. With his raucous rhythms, and backing hollers and hand claps, Eddy sold more than 100 million records worldwide, and mastered a distinctive sound based on the premise that a guitar’s bass strings sounded better on tape than the high ones. Paul Auster Author Paul Auster has died at age 77. Auster was a prolific, prize-winning man of letters and filmmaker known for such inventive narratives and meta-narratives as “The New York Trilogy” and “4 3 2 1." Auster’s death on April 30 was confirmed by his literary representatives. Auster completed more than 30 books, translated into dozens of languages. He never achieved major commercial success in the U.S., but he was widely admired overseas for his cosmopolitan worldview and erudite and introspective style. Auster’s novels were a mix of history, politics, genre experiments, existential quests and self-conscious references to writers and writing. Dick Rutan Co-pilots Dick Rutan, right, and Jeana Yeager, no relationship to test pilot Chuck Yeager, pose for a photo after a test flight over the Mojave Desert, Dec. 19, 1985. Rutan, a decorated Vietnam War pilot, who along with copilot Yeager completed one of the greatest milestones in aviation history: the first round-the-world flight with no stops or refueling, died late Friday, May 3, 2024. He was 85. Steve Albini Music producer Steve Albini, seen in his Chicago studio in 2014, produced albums by Nirvana, the Pixies and PJ Harvey. Albini died at 61. Brian Fox, an engineer at Albini’s studio, Electrical Audio, says Albini died after a heart attack May 7. In addition to his work on canonized rock albums such as Nirvana‘s “In Utero,” the Pixies’ breakthrough “Surfer Rosa,” and PJ Harvey’s “Rid of Me,” Albini was the frontman of the underground bands Big Black and Shellac. He dismissed the term “producer” and requested he be credited with “Recorded by Steve Albini." Jimmy Johnson San Francisco 49ers Hall of Fame football player Jimmy Johnson, left, is honored by owner Jed York before a 2011 game between against the St. Louis Rams in San Francisco. Pro Football Hall of Fame defensive back Jimmy Johnson, a three-time All-Pro and member of the All-Decade Team of the 1970s, has died. He was 86. Johnson's family told the Pro Football Hall of Fame that he died May 8. Johnson was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1994. He played his entire 16-year pro career with San Francisco. He played in 213 games, more than any other 49ers player at the time of his retirement. Sean Burroughs San Diego Padres third baseman Sean Burroughs fires a throw to first from his knees but is unable to get Los Angeles Dodgers' D. J. Houlton at first during the third inning of a baseball game June 22, 2005, in San Diego. Burroughs, a two-time Little League World Series champion who won an Olympic gold medal and went on to a major league career that was interrupted by substance abuse, has died. He was 43. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s online records said Burroughs died Thursday, May 9, 2024, with the cause of death deferred. Roger Corman Producer Roger Corman poses in his Los Angeles office, May 8, 2013. Corman, the Oscar-winning “King of the Bs” who helped turn out such low-budget classics as “Little Shop of Horrors” and “Attack of the Crab Monsters” and gave many of Hollywood's most famous actors and directors an early break, died Thursday, May 9, 2024. He was 98. A.J. Smith A.J. Smith, a longtime NFL executive who was the winningest general manager in Chargers history, has died. He was 75. His son, Atlanta assistant general manager Kyle Smith, announced in a statement released by the Falcons that his father died May 12. Kyle Smith said his father had been battling prostate cancer for seven years. The Chargers won five division titles during Smith’s 10 seasons as GM. The franchise’s 98 wins, including the playoffs, were the sixth most in the league from 2003-12. David Sanborn Saxophone player David Sanborn performs during his concert at the Stravinski hall at the "Colours of Music night" during the 34th Montreux Jazz Festival in Montreux, Switzerland on July 10, 2000. Sanborn, the Grammy-winning saxophonist who played lively solos on such hits as David Bowie's “Young Americans” and James Taylor's “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” and enjoyed his own highly successful recording career as a leading performer of contemporary jazz, died Sunday, May 12, 2024, at age 78. Alice Munro Nobel laureate Alice Munro has died. The Canadian literary giant who became one of the world’s most esteemed contemporary authors and one of history’s most honored short story writers was 92. Munro achieved stature rare for an art form traditionally placed beneath the novel. She was the first lifelong Canadian to win the Nobel and the first recipient cited exclusively for short fiction. Munro was little known beyond Canada until her late 30s but became one of the few short story writers to enjoy ongoing commercial success. A spokesperson for publisher Penguin Random House Canada said Munro died May 13 at home in Port Hope, Ontario. Dabney Coleman Dabney Coleman, the mustachioed character actor who specialized in smarmy villains like the chauvinist boss in “9 to 5” and the nasty TV director in “Tootsie,” died May 16. He was 92. For two decades Coleman labored in movies and TV shows as a talented but largely unnoticed performer. That changed abruptly in 1976 when he was cast as the incorrigibly corrupt mayor of the hamlet of Fernwood in “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,” a satirical soap opera. He won a Golden Globe for “The Slap Maxwell Story” and an Emmy Award for best supporting actor in Peter Levin’s 1987 small screen legal drama “Sworn to Silence.” Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi listens to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, not in photo, during a joint news conference following their meeting at the Presidential palace in Ankara, Turkey, Jan. 24, 2024. Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi, foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and others were found dead at the site of a helicopter crash site, state media reported Monday, May 20, 2024. Jim Otto Jim Otto, the Hall of Fame center known as Mr. Raider for his durability through a litany of injuries, died May 19. He was 86. The cause of death was not immediately known. Otto joined the Raiders for their inaugural season in the American Football League in 1960 and was a fixture on the team for the next 15 years. He never missed a game because of injuries and competed in 210 consecutive regular-season games and 308 straight total contests despite undergoing nine operations on his knees during his playing career. His right leg was amputated in 2007. Ivan Boesky Ivan F. Boesky, the flamboyant stock trader whose cooperation with the government cracked open one of the largest insider trading scandals on Wall Street, has died at the age of 87. A representative at the Marianne Boesky Gallery, owned by his daughter, confirmed his death. The son of a Detroit delicatessen owner, Boesky was once considered one of the richest and most influential risk-takers on Wall Street. He had parlayed $700,000 from his late mother-in-law’s estate into a fortune estimated at more than $200 million. Once implicated in insider trading, Boesky cooperated with a brash young U.S. attorney named Rudolph Giuliani, uncovering a scandal that blemished some of the most respected U.S. investment brokerages. Boesky died May 20. Jan. A.P. Kaczmarek Jan. A.P. Kaczmarek poses with the Oscar for best original score for his work on "Finding Neverland" during the 77th Academy Awards, Feb. 27, 2005, in Los Angeles. Polish composer Kaczmarek, who won a 2005 Oscar for the movie “Finding Neverland,” has died on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at age 71. Kaczmarek’s death was announced by Poland’s Music Foundation. Carlie Colin Train bassist and founding member Charlie Colin has died at 58. Colin’s sister confirmed the musician's death Wednesday to The Associated Press. Variety reported Colin slipped and fell in the shower while house-sitting for a friend in Brussels. Train formed in San Francisco in the early ’90s. Colin played on Train's first three records, 1998’s self-titled album, 2001’s “Drops of Jupiter” and 2003’s “My Private Nation.” The track “Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)” hit No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also earned two Grammys. Colin left the band in 2003. He also worked with the Newport Beach Film Festival. Colin died May 22. Morgan Spurlock Documentary filmmaker Morgan Spurlock, an Oscar nominee whose most famous works skewered America’s food industry and who notably ate only at McDonald’s for a month to illustrate the dangers of a fast-food diet, has died of cancer. He was 53. Spurlock made a splash in 2004 with his groundbreaking film “Super Size Me,” and returned in 2019 with “Super Size Me 2: Holy Chicken!” — a sober look at an industry that processes 9 billion animals a year in America. Spurlock was a gonzo-like filmmaker who leaned into the bizarre and ridiculous. His stylistic touches included zippy graphics and amusing music. Spurlock died May 23. Richard M. Sherman Richard M. Sherman, one half of the prolific, award-winning pair of brothers who helped form millions of childhoods by penning classic Disney tunes, has died. He was 95. Sherman, along with his late brother Robert, wrote hundreds of songs together, including songs for “Mary Poppins,” “The Jungle Book” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” — as well as the most-played tune on Earth, “It’s a Small World (After All).” The Walt Disney Co. announced that Sherman died Saturday due to age-related illness. The brothers won two Academy Awards for Walt Disney’s 1964 smash “Mary Poppins.” Robert Sherman died May 25 in London in 2012. Bill Walton Basketball Hall of Fame legend Bill Walton laughs during a practice session for the NBA All-Star basketball game in Cleveland, Feb. 19, 2022. Walton, who starred for John Wooden's UCLA Bruins before becoming a Basketball Hall of Famer and one of the biggest stars of basketball broadcasting, died Monday, May 27, 2024, the league announced on behalf of his family. He was 71. Albert Ruddy “The Godfather” producer Albert S. Ruddy died May 25 at 94. The Canadian-born producer and writer won Oscars for “The Godfather” and “Million Dollar Baby,” developed the raucous prison-sports comedy “The Longest Yard” and helped create the hit sitcom “Hogan’s Heroes." A spokesperson says Ruddy died Saturday at the UCLA Medical Center. Ruddy produced more than 30 movies and was on hand for the very top and the very bottom. “The Godfather” and “Million Dollar Baby” were box office hits and winners of best picture Oscars. But Ruddy also helped give us “Cannonball Run II” and “Megaforce,” nominees for Golden Raspberry awards for worst movie of the year. Larry Allen Larry Allen, one of the most dominant offensive linemen in the NFL during a 12-year career spent mostly with the Dallas Cowboys, died June 2. He was 52. The Cowboys say Allen died suddenly on Sunday while on vacation with his family in Mexico. Allen was named an All-Pro six consecutive years from 1996-2001 and was inducted into the Pro Football of Hall of Fame in 2013. He said few words but let his blocking do the talking. Allen once bench-pressed 700 pounds and had the speed to chase down opposing running backs. Janis Paige Bob Hope and Janis Paige hug during the annual Christmas show in Saigon, Vietnam, Dec. 25, 1964. Paige, a popular actor in Hollywood and in Broadway musicals and comedies who danced with Fred Astaire, toured with Bob Hope and continued to perform into her 80s, died Sunday, June 2, 2024, of natural causes at her Los Angeles home, longtime friend Stuart Lampert said Monday, June 3. Parnelli Jones Parnelli Jones, the 1963 Indianapolis 500 winner, died June 4 at Torrance Memorial Medical Center after a battle with Parkinson’s disease, his son said. Jones was 90. At the time of his death, Jones was the oldest living winner of “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” Rufus Parnell Jones was born in Texarkana, Arkansas, in 1933 but moved to Torrance as a young child and never left. It was there that he became “Parnelli” because his given name of Rufus was too well known for him to compete without locals knowing that he wasn’t old enough to race. Chet Walker Boston Celtics' John Havlicek (17) is defended by Philadelphia 76ers' Chet Walker (25) during the first half of an NBA basketball playoff game April 14, 1968, in Boston. Walker, a seven-time All-Star forward who helped Wilt Chamberlain and the 76ers win the 1967 NBA title, died June 8. He was 84. The National Basketball Players Association confirmed Walker's death, according to NBA.com . The 76ers, Chicago Bulls and National Basketball Retired Players Association also extended their condolences on social media on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The Rev. James Lawson Jr. The Rev. James Lawson Jr. speaks Sept. 17, 2015, in Murfreesboro, Tenn. Lawson Jr., an apostle of nonviolent protest who schooled activists to withstand brutal reactions from white authorities as the Civil Rights Movement gained traction, has died, his family said Monday. He was 95. His family said Lawson died on Sunday after a short illness in Los Angeles, where he spent decades working as a pastor, labor movement organizer and university professor. Lawson was a close adviser to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., who called him “the leading theorist and strategist of nonviolence in the world.” Lawson met King in 1957, after spending three years in India soaking up knowledge about Mohandas K. Gandhi’s independence movement. King would travel to India himself two years later, but at the time, he had only read about Gandhi in books. Jerry West Basketball Hall of Fame inductee Jerry West, representing the 1960 USA Olympic Team, is seen Aug. 13, 2010, during the enshrinement news conference at the Hall of Fame Museum in Springfield, Mass. Jerry West, who was selected to the Basketball Hall of Fame three times in a storied career as a player and executive, and whose silhouette is considered to be the basis of the NBA logo, died June 12, the Los Angeles Clippers announced. He was 86. West, nicknamed “Mr. Clutch” for his late-game exploits as a player, was an NBA champion who went into the Hall of Fame as a player in 1980 and again as a member of the gold medal-winning 1960 U.S. Olympic Team in 2010. He will be enshrined for a third time later this year as a contributor, and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver called West “one of the greatest executives in sports history.” Ron Simons Actor and director Ron Simons, seen Jan. 23, 2011, during the 2011 Sundance Film Festival, died June 12. Simons turned into a formidable screen and stage producer, winning four Tony Awards and having several films selected at the Sundance Film Festival. He won Tonys for producing “Porgy and Bess,” “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder,” “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” and “Jitney.” He also co-produced “Hughie,” with Forest Whitaker, “The Gin Game,” starring Cicely Tyson and James Earl Jones, “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations,” an all-Black production of “A Streetcar Named Desire,” the revival of "for colored girls who have considered suicide/when the rainbow is enuf" and the original work “Thoughts of a Colored Man.” He was in the films “27 Dresses” and “Mystery Team,” as well as on the small screen in “The Resident,” “Law & Order,” “Law & Order: Criminal Intent” and “Law & Order: SVU.” Bob Schul Bob Schul of West Milton, Ohio, hits the tape Oct. 18, 1964, to win the 5,000 meter run at the Olympic Games in Tokyo. Schul, the only American distance runner to win the 5,000 meters at the Olympics, died June 16. He was 86. His death was announced by Miami University in Ohio , where Schul shined on the track and was inducted into the school’s hall of fame in 1973. Schul predicted gold leading into the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and followed through with his promise. On a rainy day in Japan, he finished the final lap in a blistering 54.8 seconds to sprint to the win. His white shorts were covered in mud at the finish. He was inducted into the USA Track and Field Hall of Fame in 1991. He also helped write a book called “In the Long Run.” Willie Mays San Francisco Giants superstar Willie Mays poses for a photo during baseball spring training in 1972. Mays, the electrifying “Say Hey Kid” whose singular combination of talent, drive and exuberance made him one of baseball’s greatest and most beloved players, died June 18. He was 93. The center fielder, who began his professional career in the Negro Leagues in 1948, had been baseball’s oldest living Hall of Famer. He was voted into the Hall in 1979, his first year of eligibility, and in 1999 followed only Babe Ruth on The Sporting News’ list of the game’s top stars. The Giants retired his uniform number, 24, and set their AT&T Park in San Francisco on Willie Mays Plaza. Mays died two days before a game between the Giants and St. Louis Cardinals to honor the Negro Leagues at Rickwood Field in Birmingham , Alabama. Over 23 major league seasons, virtually all with the New York/San Francisco Giants but also including one in the Negro Leagues, Mays batted .301, hit 660 home runs, totaled 3,293 hits, scored more than 2,000 runs and won 12 Gold Gloves. He was Rookie of the Year in 1951, twice was named the Most Valuable Player and finished in the top 10 for the MVP 10 other times. His lightning sprint and over-the-shoulder grab of an apparent extra base hit in the 1954 World Series remains the most celebrated defensive play in baseball history. For millions in the 1950s and ’60s and after, the smiling ballplayer with the friendly, high-pitched voice was a signature athlete and showman during an era when baseball was still the signature pastime. Awarded the Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2015, Mays left his fans with countless memories. But a single feat served to capture his magic — one so untoppable it was simply called “The Catch.” Donald Sutherland Actor Donald Sutherland appears Oct. 13, 2017, at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in Beverly Hills, Calif. Sutherland, the Canadian actor whose wry, arrestingly off-kilter screen presence spanned more than half a century of films from “M.A.S.H.” to “The Hunger Games,” died June 20. He was 88. Kiefer Sutherland said on X he believed his father was one of the most important actors in the history of film: “Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly. He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that.” The tall and gaunt Sutherland, who flashed a grin that could be sweet or diabolical, was known for offbeat characters like Hawkeye Pierce in Robert Altman's "M.A.S.H.," the hippie tank commander in "Kelly's Heroes" and the stoned professor in "Animal House." Before transitioning into a long career as a respected character actor, Sutherland epitomized the unpredictable, antiestablishment cinema of the 1970s. He never stopped working, appearing in nearly 200 films and series. Over the decades, Sutherland showed his range in more buttoned-down — but still eccentric — roles in Robert Redford's "Ordinary People" and Oliver Stone's "JFK." More, recently, he starred in the “Hunger Games” films. A memoir, “Made Up, But Still True,” is due out in November. Bill Cobbs Actor Bill Cobbs, a cast member in "Get Low," arrives July 27, 2010, at the premiere of the film in Beverly Hills, Calif. Cobbs, the veteran character actor who became a ubiquitous and sage screen presence as an older man, died June 25. He was 90. A Cleveland native, Cobbs acted in such films as “The Hudsucker Proxy,” “The Bodyguard” and “Night at the Museum.” He made his first big-screen appearance in a fleeting role in 1974's “The Taking of Pelham One Two Three." He became a lifelong actor with some 200 film and TV credits. The lion share of those came in his 50s, 60s, and 70s, as filmmakers and TV producers turned to him again and again to imbue small but pivotal parts with a wizened and worn soulfulness. Cobbs appeared on television shows including “The Sopranos," “The West Wing,” “Sesame Street” and “Good Times.” He was Whitney Houston's manager in “The Bodyguard” (1992), the mystical clock man of the Coen brothers' “The Hudsucker Proxy” (1994) and the doctor of John Sayles' “Sunshine State” (2002). He played the coach in “Air Bud” (1997), the security guard in “Night at the Museum” (2006) and the father on “The Gregory Hines Show." Cobbs rarely got the kinds of major parts that stand out and win awards. Instead, Cobbs was a familiar and memorable everyman who left an impression on audiences, regardless of screen time. He won a Daytime Emmy Award for outstanding limited performance in a daytime program for the series “Dino Dana” in 2020. Kinky Friedman Independent gubernatorial candidate Kinky Friedman speaks with the media Nov. 7, 2009, at his campaign headquarters in Austin, Texas. The singer, songwriter, satirist and novelist, who led the alt-country band Texas Jewboys, toured with Bob Dylan, sang with Willie Nelson, and dabbled in politics with campaigns for Texas governor and other statewide offices, died June 27. He was 79 and had suffered from Parkinson's disease. Often called “The Kinkster" and sporting sideburns, a thick mustache and cowboy hat, Friedman earned a cult following and reputation as a provocateur throughout his career across musical and literary genres. In the 1970s, his satirical country band Kinky Friedman and the Texas Jewboys wrote songs with titles such as “They Ain't Makin' Jews Like Jesus Anymore” and “Get Your Biscuits in the Oven and Your Buns in Bed.” Friedman joined part of Bob Dylan's Rolling Thunder Revue tour in 1976. By the 1980s, Friedman was writing crime novels that often included a version of himself, and he wrote a column for Texas Monthly magazine in the 2000s. Friedman's run at politics brought his brand of irreverence to the serious world of public policy. In 2006, Friedman ran for governor as an independent in a five-way race that included incumbent Republican Rick Perry. Friedman launched his campaign against the backdrop of the Alamo. Martin Mull Martin Mull participates in "The Cool Kids" panel during the Fox Television Critics Association Summer Press Tour on Aug. 2, 2018, at The Beverly Hilton hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif. Mull, whose droll, esoteric comedy and acting made him a hip sensation in the 1970s and later a beloved guest star on sitcoms including “Roseanne” and “Arrested Development,” died June 28. He was 80. Mull, who was also a guitarist and painter, came to national fame with a recurring role on the Norman Lear-created satirical soap opera “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,” and the starring role in its spinoff, “Fernwood Tonight." His first foray into show business was as a songwriter, penning the 1970 semi-hit “A Girl Named Johnny Cash” for singer Jane Morgan. He would combine music and comedy in an act that he brought to hip Hollywood clubs in the 1970s. Mull often played slightly sleazy, somewhat slimy and often smarmy characters as he did as Teri Garr's boss and Michael Keaton's foe in 1983's “Mr. Mom.” He played Colonel Mustard in the 1985 movie adaptation of the board game “Clue,” which, like many things Mull appeared in, has become a cult classic. The 1980s also brought what many thought was his best work, “A History of White People in America,” a mockumentary that first aired on Cinemax. Mull co-created the show and starred as a “60 Minutes” style investigative reporter investigating all things milquetoast and mundane. Willard was again a co-star. In the 1990s he was best known for his recurring role on several seasons on “Roseanne,” in which he played a warmer, less sleazy boss to the title character, an openly gay man whose partner was played by Willard, who died in 2020 . Mull would later play private eye Gene Parmesan on “Arrested Development,” a cult-classic character on a cult-classic show, and would be nominated for an Emmy, his first, in 2016 for a guest run on “Veep.” Robert Towne Screenwriter Robert Towne poses at The Regency Hotel, March 7, 2006, in New York. Towne, the Oscar-winning screenplay writer of "Shampoo," "The Last Detail" and other acclaimed films whose work on "Chinatown" became a model of the art form and helped define the jaded allure of his native Los Angeles, died Monday, July 1, 2024, surrounded by family at his home in Los Angeles, said publicist Carri McClure. She declined to comment on any cause of death. Vic Seixas Vic Seixas of the United States backhands a volley from Denmark's Jurgen Ulrich in the first round of men's singles match at Wimbledon, England, June 27, 1967. Vic Seixas, a Wimbledon winner and tennis Hall of Famer who was the oldest living Grand Slam champion, has died July 5 at the age of 100. The International Tennis Hall of Fame announced Seixas’ death on Saturday July 6, 2024, based on confirmation from his daughter Tori. James Inhofe In this June 30, 2020, file photo, Sen. James Inhofe, R-Okla., speaks to reporters following a GOP policy meeting on Capitol Hill in Washington. Former Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma died July 9. He was 89. The family says in a statement that the Republican had a stroke during the July Fourth holiday and died Tuesday morning. Inhofe was a powerful fixture in state politics for decades. He doubted that climate change was caused by human activity, calling the theory “the greatest hoax ever perpetrated on the American people.” As Oklahoma’s senior U.S. senator, he was a staunch supporter of the state’s military installations. He was elected to a fifth Senate term in 2020 and stepped down in early 2023. Joe Bonsall The Oak Ridge Boys, from left, Joe Bonsall, Richard Sterban, Duane Allen and William Lee Golden hold their awards for Top Vocal Group and Best Album of the Year for "Ya'll Come Back Saloon", during the 14th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards in Los Angeles, Calif., May 3, 1979. Bonsall died on July 9, 2024, from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Hendersonville, Tenn. He was 76. A Philadelphia native and resident of Hendersonville, Tennessee, Bonsall joined the Oak Ridge Boys in 1973, which originally formed in the 1940s. He saw the band through its golden period in the '80s and beyond, which included their signature 1981 song “Elvira.” The hit marked a massive crossover moment for the group, reaching No. 1 on the country chart and No. 5 on Billboard’s all-genre Hot 100. The group is also known for such hits as 1982’s “Bobbie Sue." Shelley Duvall Shelley Duvall poses for photographers at the 30th Cannes Film Festival in France, May 27, 1977. Duvall, whose wide-eyed, winsome presence was a mainstay in the films of Robert Altman and who co-starred in Stanley Kubrick's “The Shining,” died July 11. She was 75. Dr. Ruth Westheimer Dr. Ruth Westheimer holds a copy of her book "Sex for Dummies" at the International Frankfurt Book Fair 'Frankfurter Buchmesse' in Frankfurt, Germany, Thursday, Oct. 11, 2007. Westheimer, the sex therapist who became a pop icon, media star and best-selling author through her frank talk about once-taboo bedroom topics, died on July 12, 2024. She was 96. Richard Simmons Richard Simmons sits for a portrait in Los Angeles, June 23, 1982. Simmons, a fitness guru who urged the overweight to exercise and eat better, died July 13 at the age of 76. Simmons was a court jester of physical fitness who built a mini-empire in his trademark tank tops and short shorts by urging the overweight to exercise and eat better. Simmons was a former 268-pound teen who shared his hard-won weight loss tips as the host of the Emmy-winning daytime “Richard Simmons Show" and the “Sweatin' to the Oldies” line of exercise videos, which became a cultural phenomenon. Jacoby Jones Former NFL receiver Jacoby Jones died July 14 at age 40. Jones' 108-yard kickoff return in 2013 remains the longest touchdown in Super Bowl history. The Houston Texans were Jones’ team for the first five seasons of his career. They announced his death on Sunday. In a statement released by the NFL Players Association, his family said he died at his home in New Orleans. A cause of death was not given. Jones played from 2007-15 for the Texans, Baltimore Ravens, San Diego Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers. He made several huge plays for the Ravens during their most recent Super Bowl title season, including that kick return. Shannen Doherty The "Beverly Hills, 90210" star whose life and career were roiled by tabloid stories, Shannen Doherty died July 13 at 53. Doherty's publicist said the actor died Saturday following years with breast cancer. Catapulted to fame as Brenda in “Beverly Hills, 90210,” she worked in big-screen films including "Mallrats" and "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back" and in TV movies including "A Burning Passion: The Margaret Mitchell Story," in which she played the "Gone with the Wind" author. Doherty co-starred with Holly Marie Combs and Alyssa Milano in the series “Charmed” from 1998-2001; appeared in the “90210” sequel series seven years later and competed on “Dancing with the Stars” in 2010. James Sikking Actor James Sikking poses for a photograph at the Los Angeles gala celebrating the 20th anniversary of the National Organization for Women, Dec. 1, 1986. Sikking, who starred as a hardened police lieutenant on “Hill Street Blues” and as the titular character's kindhearted dad on “Doogie Howser, M.D.,” died July 13 of complications from dementia, his publicist Cynthia Snyder said in a statement. He was 90. Pat Williams Pat Williams chats with media before the 2004 NBA draft in Orlando, Fla. Williams, a co-founder of the Orlando Magic and someone who spent more than a half-century working within the NBA, died July 17 from complications related to viral pneumonia. The team announced the death Wednesday. Williams was 84. He started his NBA career as business manager of the Philadelphia 76ers in 1968, then had stints as general manager of the Chicago Bulls, the Atlanta Hawks and the 76ers — helping that franchise win a title in 1983. Williams was later involved in starting the process of bringing an NBA team to Orlando. The league’s board of governors granted an expansion franchise in 1987, and the team began play in 1989. Lou Dobbs Lou Dobbs speaks Feb. 24, 2017, at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Oxon Hill, Md. Dobbs, the conservative political pundit and veteran cable TV host who was a founding anchor for CNN and later was a nightly presence on Fox Business Network for more than a decade, died July 18. He was 78. His death was announced in a post on his official X account, which called him a “fighter till the very end – fighting for what mattered to him the most, God, his family and the country.” He hosted “Lou Dobbs Tonight” on Fox from 2011 to 2021, following two separate stints at CNN. No cause of death was given. Bob Newhart Bob Newhart, center, poses with members of the cast and crew of the "Bob Newhart Show," from top left, Marcia Wallace, Bill Daily, Jack Riley, and, Suzanne Pleshette, foreground left, and Dick Martin at TV Land's 35th anniversary tribute to "The Bob Newhart Show" on Sept. 5, 2007, in Beverly Hills, Calif. Newhart has died at age 94. Jerry Digney, Newhart’s publicist, says the actor died July 18 in Los Angeles after a series of short illnesses. The accountant-turned-comedian gained fame with a smash album and became one of the most popular TV stars of his time. Newhart was a Chicago psychologist in “The Bob Newhart Show” in the 1970s and a Vermont innkeeper on “Newhart” in the 1980s. Both shows featured a low-key Newhart surrounded by eccentric characters. The second had a twist ending in its final show — the whole series was revealed to have been a dream by the psychologist he played in the other show. Cheng Pei-Pei Cheng Pei-pei, a Chinese-born martial arts film actor who starred in Ang Lee’s “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” died July 17 at age 78. Her family says Cheng, who had been diagnosed with a rare illness with symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease, passed away Wednesday at home surrounded by her loved ones. The Shanghai-born film star became a household name in Hong Kong, once dubbed the Hollywood of the Far East, for her performances in martial arts movies in the 1960s. She played Jade Fox, who uses poisoned needles, in “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” which was released in 2000, grossed $128 million in North America and won four Oscars. Abdul 'Duke' Fakir Abdul “Duke” Fakir holds his life time achievement award backstage at the 51st Annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 8, 2009, in Los Angeles. The last surviving original member of the Four Tops died July 22. Abdul “Duke” Fakir was 88. He was a charter member of the Motown group along with lead singer Levi Stubbs, Renaldo “Obie" Benson and Lawrence Payton. Between 1964 and 1967, the Tops had 11 top 20 hits and two No. 1′s: “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)” and the operatic classic “Reach Out I’ll Be There.” Other songs, often stories of romantic pain and longing, included “Baby I Need Your Loving,” “Standing in the Shadows of Love,” “Bernadette” and “Just Ask the Lonely.” Bernice Johnson Reagon Sculptress Elizabeth Catlett, left, then-Washington D.C. Mayor Sharon Pratt Dixon, center, and then-curator, division of community life, Smithsonian institution Bernice Johnson Reagon chat during the reception at the Candace awards on June 25, 1991 in New York. Reagon, a musician and scholar who used her rich, powerful contralto voice in the service of the American Civil Rights Movement and human rights struggles around the world, died on July 16, 2024, according to her daughter's social media post. She was 81. John Mayall John Mayall, the British blues musician whose influential band the Bluesbreakers was a training ground for Eric Clapton, Mick Fleetwood and many other superstars, died July 22. He was 90. He is credited with helping develop the English take on urban, Chicago-style rhythm and blues that played an important role in the blues revival of the late 1960s. A statement on Mayall's official Instagram page says he died Monday at his home in California. Though Mayall never approached the fame of some of his illustrious alumni, he was still performing in his late 80s, pounding out his version of Chicago blues. Erica Ash Erica Ash, an actor and comedian skilled in sketch comedy who starred in the parody series “Mad TV” and “Real Husbands of Hollywood,” has died. She was 46. Her publicist and a statement by her mother, Diann, says Ash died July 28 in Los Angeles of cancer. Ash impersonated Michelle Obama and Condoleeza Rice on “Mad TV,” a Fox sketch series, and was a key performer on the Rosie O’Donnell-created series “The Big Gay Sketch Show.” Her other credits included “Scary Movie V,” “Uncle Drew” and the LeBron James-produced basketball dramedy “Survivor’s Remorse.” On the BET series “Real Husbands of Hollywood,” Ash played the ex-wife of Kevin Hart’s character. Jack Russell Jack Russell, the lead singer of the bluesy '80s metal band Great White whose hits included “Once Bitten Twice Shy” and “Rock Me” and was fronting his band the night 100 people died in a 2003 nightclub fire in Rhode Island, died Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024. He was 63. Chi Chi Rodriguez Juan “Chi Chi” Rodriguez, a Hall of Fame golfer whose antics on the greens and inspiring life story made him among the sport’s most popular players during a long professional career, died Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024. Susan Wojcicki Susan Wojcicki, the former YouTube chief executive officer and longtime Google executive, died Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, after suffering with non small cell lung cancer for the past two years. She was 56. Frank Selvy Frank Selvy, an All-America guard at Furman who scored an NCAA Division I-record 100 points in a game and later played nine NBA seasons, died Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024. He was 91. Wally Amos Wallace “Wally” Amos, the creator of the cookie empire that took his name and made it famous and who went on to become a children’s literacy advocate, died Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024, from complications with dementia. He was 88. Gena Rowlands Gena Rowlands, hailed as one of the greatest actors to ever practice the craft and a guiding light in independent cinema as a star in groundbreaking movies by her director husband, John Cassavetes, and who later charmed audiences in her son's tear-jerker “The Notebook,” died Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024. She was 94. Peter Marshall Peter Marshall, the actor and singer turned game show host who played straight man to the stars for 16 years on “The Hollywood Squares,” died. Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024 He was 98. Alain Delon Alain Delon, the internationally acclaimed French actor who embodied both the bad guy and the policeman and made hearts throb around the world, died Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. He was 88. Phil Donahue Phil Donahue, whose pioneering daytime talk show launched an indelible television genre that brought success to Oprah Winfrey, Montel Williams, Ellen DeGeneres and many others, died Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, after a long illness. He was 88. Al Attles Al Attles, a Hall of Famer who coached the 1975 NBA champion Warriors and spent more than six decades with the organization as a player, general manager and most recently team ambassador, died Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2024. He was 87. John Amos John Amos, who starred as the family patriarch on the hit 1970s sitcom “Good Times” and earned an Emmy nomination for his role in the seminal 1977 miniseries “Roots,” died Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024. He was 84. James Darren James Darren, a teen idol who helped ignite the 1960s surfing craze as a charismatic beach boy paired off with Sandra Dee in the hit film “Gidget,” died Monday, Sept. 2, 2024. He was 88. James Earl Jones James Earl Jones, who overcame racial prejudice and a severe stutter to become a celebrated icon of stage and screen has died. He was 93. His agent, Barry McPherson, confirmed Jones died Sept. 9 at home. Jones was a pioneering actor who eventually lent his deep, commanding voice to CNN, “The Lion King” and Darth Vader. Working deep into his 80s, he won two Emmys, a Golden Globe, two Tony Awards, a Grammy, the National Medal of Arts, the Kennedy Center Honors and was given an honorary Oscar and a special Tony for lifetime achievement. In 2022, a Broadway theater was renamed in his honor. Frankie Beverly Frankie Beverly, who with his band Maze inspired generations of fans with his smooth, soulful voice and lasting anthems including “Before I Let Go,” has died. He was 77. His family said in a post on the band’s website and social media accounts that Beverly died Sept. 10. In the post, which asked for privacy, the family said “he lived his life with a pure soul, as one would say, and for us, no one did it better.” The post did not say his cause of death or where he died. Beverly, whose songs include “Joy and Pain,” “Love is the Key,” and “Southern Girl,” finished his farewell “I Wanna Thank You Tour” in his hometown of Philadelphia in July. Joe Schmidt Joe Schmidt, the Hall of Fame linebacker who helped the Detroit Lions win NFL championships in 1953 and 1957 and later coached the team, has died. He was 92. The Lions said family informed the team Schmidt died Sept. 11. A cause of death was not provided. One of pro football’s first great middle linebackers, Schmidt played his entire NFL career with the Lions from 1953-65. An eight-time All-Pro, he was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973 and the college football version in 2000. Born in Pittsburgh, Schmidt played college football in his hometown at Pitt. Chad McQueen Chad McQueen, an actor known for his performances in the “Karate Kid” movies and the son of the late actor and racer Steve McQueen, died Sep. 11. His lawyer confirmed his death at age 63. McQueen's family shared a statement on social media saying he lived a life “filled with love and dedication.” McQueen was a professional race car driver, like his father, and competed in the famed 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Daytona races. He is survived by his wife Jeanie and three children, Chase, Madison and Steven, who is an actor best known for “The Vampire Diaries.” Tito Jackson Tito Jackson, one of the brothers who made up the beloved pop group the Jackson 5, died at age 70 on Sept. 15. Jackson was the third of nine children, including global superstars Michael and Janet. The Jackson 5 included brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael. They signed with Berry Gordy’s Motown empire in the 1960s. The group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 and produced several No. 1 hits in the 1970s, including “ABC,” “I Want You Back” and “I’ll Be There.” JD Souther John David “JD” Souther has died. He was a prolific songwriter and musician whose collaborations with the Eagles and Linda Ronstadt helped shape the country-rock sound that took root in Southern California in the 1970s. Souther joined in on some of the Eagles’ biggest hits, such as “Best of My Love,” “New Kid in Town,” and “Heartache Tonight." The Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee also collaborated with James Taylor, Bob Seger, Bonnie Raitt and many more. His biggest hit as a solo artist was “You’re Only Lonely.” He was about to tour with Karla Bonoff. Souther died Sept. 17 at his home in New Mexico, at 78. In this photo, JD Souther and Alison Krauss attend the Songwriters Hall of Fame 44th annual induction and awards gala on Thursday, June 13, 2013 in New York. Dan Evans Sen. Dan Evans stands with his three sons, from left, Mark, Bruce and Dan Jr., after he won the election for Washington's senate seat in Seattle, Nov. 8, 1983. Evans, a former Washington state governor and a U.S. Senator, died Sept. 20. The popular Republican was 98. He served as governor from 1965 to 1977, and he was the keynote speaker at the 1968 National Republican Convention. In 1983, Evans was appointed to served out the term of Democratic Sen. Henry “Scoop” Jackson after he died in office. Evans opted not to stand for election in 1988, citing the “tediousness" of the Senate. He later served as a regent at the University of Washington, where the Daniel J. Evans School of Public Policy and Governance bears his name. Mercury Morris Eugene “Mercury” Morris, who starred for the unbeaten 1972 Miami Dolphins as part of a star-studded backfield and helped the team win two Super Bowl titles, died Sept. 21. He was 77. The team on Sunday confirmed the death of Morris, a three-time Pro Bowl selection. In a statement, his family said his “talent and passion left an indelible mark on the sport.” Morris was the starting halfback and one of three go-to runners that Dolphins coach Don Shula utilized in Miami’s back-to-back title seasons of 1972 and 1973, alongside Pro Football Hall of Famer Larry Csonka and Jim Kiick. Morris led the Dolphins in rushing touchdowns in both of those seasons. John Ashton John Ashton, the veteran character actor who memorably played the gruff but lovable police detective John Taggart in the “Beverly Hills Cop” films, died Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024. He was 76. Maggie Smith Maggie Smith, who won an Oscar for 1969 film “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” and won new fans in the 21st century as the dowager Countess of Grantham in “Downton Abbey” and Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films, died Sept. 27 at 89. Smith's publicist announced the news Friday. She was frequently rated the preeminent British female performer of a generation that included Vanessa Redgrave and Judi Dench. “Jean Brodie” brought her the Academy Award for best actress in 1969. Smith added a supporting actress Oscar for “California Suite” in 1978. Kris Kristofferson Kris Kristofferson, a Rhodes scholar with a deft writing style and rough charisma who became a country music superstar and an A-list Hollywood actor, died Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024. He was 88. Drake Hogestyn Drake Hogestyn, the “Days of Our Lives” star who appeared on the show for 38 years, died Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024. He was 70. Ron Ely Ron Ely, the tall, musclebound actor who played the title character in the 1960s NBC series “Tarzan,” died Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024, at age 86. Dikembe Mutombo Dikembe Mutombo, a Basketball Hall of Famer who was one of the best defensive players in NBA history and a longtime global ambassador for the game, died Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, from brain cancer, the league announced. He was 58. Frank Fritz Frank Fritz, left, part of a two-man team who drove around the U.S. looking for antiques and collectibles to buy and resell on the reality show “American Pickers,” died Monday, Sept. 30, 2024. He was 60. He's shown here with co-host Mike Wolfe at the A+E Networks 2015 Upfront in New York on April 30, 2015. Pete Rose Pete Rose, baseball’s career hits leader and fallen idol who undermined his historic achievements and Hall of Fame dreams by gambling on the game he loved and once embodied, died Monday, Sept. 30, 2024. He was 83. Cissy Houston Cissy Houston, the mother of Whitney Houston and a two-time Grammy winner who performed alongside superstar musicians like Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin, died Monday, Oct. 7, 2024, in her New Jersey home. She was 91. Ethel Kennedy Ethel Kennedy, the wife of Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, who raised their 11 children after he was assassinated and remained dedicated to social causes and the family’s legacy for decades thereafter, died on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, her family said. She was 96. Liam Payne Former One Direction singer Liam Payne, 31, whose chart-topping British boy band generated a global following of swooning fans, was found dead Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, local officials said. He was 31. Mitzi Gaynor Mitzi Gaynor, among the last survivors of the so-called golden age of the Hollywood musical, died of natural causes in Los Angeles on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024. She was 93. Fernando Valenzuela Fernando Valenzuela, the Mexican-born phenom for the Los Angeles Dodgers who inspired “Fernandomania” while winning the NL Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in 1981, died Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024. He was 63. Jack Jones Jack Jones, a Grammy-winning crooner known for “The Love Boat” television show theme song, died, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024. He was 86. Phil Lesh Phil Lesh, a founding member of the Grateful Dead, died Friday, Oct. 25, 2024, at age 84. Teri Garr Teri Garr, the quirky comedy actor who rose from background dancer in Elvis Presley movies to co-star of such favorites as "Young Frankenstein" and "Tootsie," died Tuesday, Oct 29, 2024. She was 79. Quincy Jones Quincy Jones, the multitalented music titan whose vast legacy ranged from producing Michael Jackson’s historic “Thriller” album to writing prize-winning film and television scores and collaborating with Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles and hundreds of other recording artists, died Sunday, Nov 3, 2024. He was 91 Bobby Allison Bobby Allison, founder of racing’s “Alabama Gang” and a NASCAR Hall of Famer, died Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024. He was 86. Song Jae-lim Song Jae-lim, a South Korean actor known for his roles in K-dramas “Moon Embracing the Sun” and “Queen Woo,” was found dead at his home in capital Seoul, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024. He was 39. Timothy West British actor Timothy West, who played the classic Shakespeare roles of King Lear and Macbeth and who in recent years along with his wife, Prunella Scales, enchanted millions of people with their boating exploits on Britain's waterways, died Tuesday, Nov 12, 2024. He was 90. Bela Karolyi Bela Karolyi, the charismatic if polarizing gymnastics coach who turned young women into champions and the United States into an international power in the sport, died Friday, Nov. 15, 2024. He was 82. Arthur Frommer Arthur Frommer, whose "Europe on 5 Dollars a Day" guidebooks revolutionized leisure travel by convincing average Americans to take budget vacations abroad, died Monday, Nov. 18, 2024. He was 95. Bob Love Former Chicago Bulls forward Bob Love, a three-time All-Star who spent 11 years in the NBA, died Monday, Nov. 18, 2024. He was 81. Chuck Woolery Chuck Woolery, the affable, smooth-talking game show host of “Wheel of Fortune,” “Love Connection” and “Scrabble” who later became a right-wing podcaster, skewering liberals and accusing the government of lying about COVID-19, died Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024. He was 83. Barbara Taylor Bradford Barbara Taylor Bradford, a British journalist who became a publishing sensation in her 40s with the saga "A Woman of Substance" and wrote more than a dozen other novels that sold tens of millions of copies, died Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024. She was 91. Rickey Henderson Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson, the brash speedster who shattered stolen base records and redefined baseball's leadoff position, died Friday, Dec. 20, 2024. He was 65. Greg Gumbel Greg Gumbel, left, watches as then-Connecticut head coach Jim Calhoun talks to Butler head coach Brad Stevens, right, prior to taping a television interview April 3, 2011, for that year's men's NCAA Final Four college basketball championship game in Houston. Gumbel's family announced Dec. 27 that the longtime CBS sportscaster died from cancer at the age of 78. Will these predictions come true in 2025? | The Ethical Life podcast Obituaries Newsletter Sign up to get the most recent local obituaries delivered to your inbox.

Believe it or not, Cowboys might have hope yet after chaotic win at WashingtonBoston Bruins 2021 first round pick Fabian Lysell was called up from Providence on Saturday to make his NHL debut against the Columbus Blue Jackets at the TD Garden. Bruins general manager Don Sweeney initiated the transaction following the Bruins 6-2 loss to the Blue Jackets in the opener of the home-and-home series on Friday night at Nationwide Arena. “He is going to make his debut tonight, he will be in the lineup tonight,” said Bruins coach Joe Sacco in his pregame press briefing. “He’s played well in Providence and talking to our coaching staff down there and our management, we feel he deserves an opportunity.” Lysell, 21, is a 5-11, 188-pound, right wing from Gothenburg, Sweden who has scored five goals and 12 assists this season for the Baby B’s. Lysell has recorded 34 goals and 70 assists for 104 points in 136 AHL games. Sacco said Lysell would skate the right flank on the line with Trent Frederic and Justin Brazeau. “It’s exciting obviously and anytime you get your first game in this league it is a special event and a memorable day,” said Sacco. Sacco said that right wing Oliver Wahlstrom and center John Beecher were healthy scratches from the lineup, freeing up a spot on the bench for Lysell. “It is an opportunity for Fabian to get into a game,” said Sacco. “You get rewarded for your good play down in Providence and it’s an opportunity for us to do it for him. “His strength is tilted toward the offensive side. But when you come up here you have to play with and without the puck. He might get some power play. Our power play needs help and he’s a guy we feel can lift it.” More Bruins content

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“Gladiator II” asks the question: Are you not moderately entertained for roughly 60% of this sequel? Truly, this is a movie dependent on managed expectations and a forgiving attitude toward its tendency to overserve. More of a thrash-and-burn schlock epic than the comparatively restrained 2000 “Gladiator,” also directed by Ridley Scott, the new one recycles a fair bit of the old one’s narrative cries for freedom while tossing in some digital sharks for the flooded Colosseum and a bout of deadly sea-battle theatrics. They really did flood the Colosseum in those days, though no historical evidence suggests shark deployment, real or digital. On the other hand (checks notes), “Gladiator II” is fiction. Screenwriter David Scarpa picks things up 16 years after “Gladiator,” which gave us the noble death of the noble warrior Maximus, shortly after slaying the ignoble emperor and returning Rome to the control of the Senate. Our new hero, Lucius (Paul Mescal), has fled Rome for Numidia, on the North African coast. The time is 200 A.D., and for the corrupt, party-time twins running the empire (Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger), that means invasion time. Pedro Pascal takes the role of Acacius, the deeply conflicted general, sick of war and tired of taking orders from a pair of depraved ferrets. The new film winds around the old one this way: Acacius is married to Lucilla (Connie Nielsen, in a welcome return), daughter of the now-deceased emperor Aurelius and the love of the late Maximus’s life. Enslaved and dragged to Rome to gladiate, the widower Lucius vows revenge on the general whose armies killed his wife. But there are things this angry young phenom must learn, about his ancestry and his destiny. It’s the movie’s worst-kept secret, but there’s a reason he keeps seeing footage of Russell Crowe from the first movie in his fever dreams. Battle follows battle, on the field, in the arena, in the nearest river, wherever, and usually with endless splurches of computer-generated blood. “Gladiator II” essentially bumper-cars its way through the mayhem, pausing for long periods of expository scheming about overthrowing the current regime. The prince of all fixers, a wily operative with interests in both managing gladiators and stocking munitions, goes by the name Macrinus. He’s played by Denzel Washington, who at one point makes a full meal out of pronouncing the word “politics” like it’s a poisoned fig. Also, if you want a masterclass in letting your robes do a lot of your acting for you, watch what Washington does here. He’s more fun than the movie but you can’t have everything. The movie tries everything, all right, and twice. Ridley Scott marshals the chaotic action sequences well enough, though he’s undercut by frenetic cutting rhythms, with that now-familiar, slightly sped-up visual acceleration in frequent use. (Claire Simpson and Sam Restivo are the editors.) Mescal acquits himself well in his first big-budget commercial walloper of an assignment, confined though he is to a narrower range of seething resentments than Crowe’s in the first film. I left thinking about two things: the word “politics” as savored/spit out by Washington, and the innate paradox of how Scott, whose best work over the decades has been wonderful, delivers spectacle. The director and his lavishly talented design team built all the rough-hewn sets with actual tangible materials the massive budget allowed. They took care to find the right locations in Morocco and Malta. Yet when combined in post-production with scads of medium-grade digital effects work in crowd scenes and the like, never mind the sharks, the movie’s a somewhat frustrating amalgam. With an uneven script on top of it, the visual texture of “Gladiator II” grows increasingly less enveloping and atmospherically persuasive, not more. But I hung there, for some of the acting, for some of the callbacks, and for the many individual moments, or single shots, that could only have come from Ridley Scott. And in the end, yes, you too may be moderately entertained. “Gladiator II” — 2.5 stars (out of 4) MPA rating: R (for strong bloody violence) Running time: 2:28 How to watch: Premieres in theaters Nov. 21. Michael Phillips is a Tribune critic.By MICHELLE L. PRICE NEW YORK (AP) — Chad Chronister, Donald Trump’s pick to run the Drug Enforcement Administration, said Tuesday he was withdrawing his name from consideration, becoming the second person selected by the president-elect to bow out quickly after being nominated for a position requiring Senate confirmation. Sheriff Chronister, the top law enforcement officer in Hillsborough County, Florida, said in a post on X that he was backing away from the opportunity, which he called “the honor of a lifetime.” “Over the past several days, as the gravity of this very important responsibility set in, I’ve concluded that I must respectfully withdraw from consideration,” Chronister wrote. He did not elaborate, and Trump’s transition team did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. Chronister follows former Republican congressman Matt Gaetz , Trump’s first pick to serve as attorney general, in withdrawing his name for a post in the administration. Gaetz withdrew following scrutiny over a federal sex trafficking investigation that cast doubt on his ability to be confirmed as the nation’s chief federal law enforcement officer. Trump’s pick of Chronister for the DEA job drew backlash from conservatives, who raised concerns over his actions during the COVID-19 pandemic and his saying that his office “does not engage in federal immigration enforcement activities.” In March 2020, Chronister arrested the pastor of a megachurch who held services with hundreds of people and violated a safer-at-home order in place aimed at limiting the spread of the Covid virus. “Shame on this pastor, their legal staff and the leaders of this staff for forcing us to do our job. That’s not what we wanted to do during a declared state of emergency,” Chronister said at the time. “We are hopeful that this will be a wakeup call.” U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky, was among those airing public complaints, saying Chronister should be “disqualified” for the arrest. Others flagged comments Chronister made in a video about Florida’s immigration laws that he released in 2023 that circulated again online after Trump named him last weekend. Related Articles National Politics | Trump team signs agreement to allow Justice to conduct background checks on nominees, staff National Politics | President-elect Donald Trump’s lawyers urge judge to toss his hush money conviction National Politics | Democrats stick with Schumer as leader, their strategy for countering Trump is far less certain National Politics | Trump vows to block Japanese steelmaker from buying US Steel, pledges tax incentives and tariffs National Politics | Democrats’ outgoing chair says Trump’s win forces party to reassess how it reaches voters In the video, Chronister praised the “rich diversity” of his community and called it “a place where people from all walks of life come together.” He said it was important to note his office “does not engage in federal immigration enforcement activities. We do not target individuals based on their immigration status. That’s the authority of federal agencies.” Trump has made a sweeping crackdown on immigration a central focus of his campaign and his aims for his coming administration. Associated Press writer Adriana Gomez Licon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida contributed to this report.

It's been nearly a decade since the final season of Downton Abbey graced our TV screens - so what is fan favorite star Sophie McShera up to now? The historical drama, set between 1912 and 1926, chronicles the lives of the Crawley family and their staff on the fictitious Yorkshire country estate of Downton Abbey. The ITV series was a massive hit with viewers and ran for six seasons. Its success led to two film adaptations , Downton Abbey in 2019 and Downton Abbey: A New Era in 2022. A third, yet-to-be-titled film is slated for release in 2025. Downton Abbey remains one of ITV's highest-rated and most beloved dramas. Even though it's been over ten years since new episodes were produced, fans can still catch reruns on ITV3 and stream the series on ITVX and Netflix . Downton Abbey 3 release date confirmed as cast say tearful goodbye to franchise Dame Maggie Smith dead: Harry Potter and Downton Abbey acting legend dies aged 89 The series boasted a star-studded cast, including Hugh Bonneville as Robert Crawley and Maggie Smith as Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham. Bradford-born actress Sophie McShera portrayed Daisy Mason on the show, reports the Liverpool Echo . Daisy Mason served as a kitchen maid and assistant cook at Downton Abbey. Sophie McShera played Daisy throughout the series' six seasons. She also appeared in both films and is set to return in the upcoming third film. Before her debut on Downton Abbey in 2010, McShera had roles in Waterloo Road as Ros McCain and in Emmerdale as Danielle Hollywell. She also made appearances on the BBC soap Doctors and the TV series Survivors. Since the conclusion of Downton Abbey, the 39 year old actress has featured in a variety of films and television shows. McShera portrayed Drisella Tremaine in the 2015 film Cinderella, under the direction of Kenneth Branagh. She took on the role of Bryony in the British sitcom The Job Lot from 2013 to 2015. Her appearances also include Galavant, Inside No. 9 and The Queen's Gambit. Details about McShera's personal life and relationships remain largely unknown as the actress maintains no public social media presence. Click here to follow the Mirror US on Google News to stay up to date with all the latest news, sport and entertainment stories. All the latest news, showbiz, lifestyle and sports updates, brought to you by our dedicated American team. Follow the Mirror US News page on Facebook to make sure you're not missing out. DAILY NEWSLETTER: Sign up here to get the latest news and updates from the Mirror US straight to your inbox with our FREE newsletter.S Korean prosecutors say Yoon authorised 'shooting' during martial law bidJudge grants dismissal of election subversion case against Trump

Sean 'Diddy' Combs denied bail by third judge as he awaits sex trafficking trialBELLEVUE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov 21, 2024-- T-Mobile US, Inc. (NASDAQ: TMUS) (“T-Mobile” or “the Company”) announced today that the Company’s Board of Directors has declared a cash dividend of $0.88 per share on its issued and outstanding shares of common stock. The dividend is payable on March 13, 2025 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on February 28, 2025. About T-Mobile US, Inc. T-Mobile US, Inc. (NASDAQ: TMUS) is America’s supercharged Un-carrier, delivering an advanced 4G LTE and transformative nationwide 5G network that will offer reliable connectivity for all. T-Mobile’s customers benefit from its unmatched combination of value and quality, unwavering obsession with offering them the best possible service experience and undisputable drive for disruption that creates competition and innovation in wireless and beyond. Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile provides services through its subsidiaries and operates its flagship brands, T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile and Mint Mobile. For more information please visit: http://www.t-mobile.com . View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241120434837/en/ CONTACT: Media Contact T-Mobile US, Inc. Media Relations MediaRelations@t-mobile.comInvestor Relations Contact T-Mobile US, Inc. investor.relations@t-mobile.com KEYWORD: WASHINGTON UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: INTERNET MOBILE/WIRELESS TECHNOLOGY CARRIERS AND SERVICES TELECOMMUNICATIONS SOURCE: T-Mobile US, Inc. Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 11/21/2024 05:15 PM/DISC: 11/21/2024 05:17 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241120434837/enroulette casino 。

NEW YORK (AP) — Sean “Diddy” Combs was denied bail on Wednesday as he awaits a May sex trafficking trial by a judge who cited evidence showing him to be a “serious risk” of witness tampering and proof he has tried to hide prohibited communications with third parties while incarcerated. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian ruled in a five-page order following a bail hearing last week. At the hearing, lawyers for the hip-hop mogul argued that a $50 million bail package they proposed would be sufficient to ensure Combs doesn’t flee and doesn’t try to intimidate prospective trial witnesses. Two other judges previously had agreed with prosecutors that the Bad Boy Records founder was a danger to the community if he is not behind bars. Subramanian concurred. “There is compelling evidence of Combs's propensity for violence,” Subramanian wrote. Lawyers for Combs did not immediately respond to messages seeking comment on the decision. Nicholas Biase, a spokesperson for prosecutors, declined comment. Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to charges that he coerced and abused women for years, aided by associates and employees. An indictment alleges that he silenced victims through blackmail and violence, including kidnapping, arson and physical beatings. A federal appeals court judge last month denied Combs’ immediate release while a three-judge panel of the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan considers his bail request. That appeal was put on hold while Subramanian, newly appointed to the case after an earlier judge stepped aside, considered the bail request for the first time. Subramanian said he took a fresh look at all the bail arguments and the evidence supporting them to make his decision. Prosecutors have insisted that no bail conditions would be sufficient to protect the public and prevent the “I'll Be Missing You” singer from fleeing. They say that even in a federal lockup in Brooklyn, Combs has orchestrated social media campaigns designed to influence prospective jurors and tried to publicly leak materials he thinks can help his case. They say he also has contacted potential witnesses through third parties. Lawyers for Combs say any alleged sexual abuse described in the indictment occurred during consensual relations between adults and that new evidence refutes allegations that Combs used his “power and prestige” to induce female victims into drugged-up, elaborately produced sexual performances with male sex workers known as “Freak Offs.” Subramanian said evidence shows Combs to be a “serious risk of witness tampering,” particularly after he communicated over the summer with a grand jury witness and deleted some of his texts with the witness. The judge also cited evidence showing that Combs violated Bureau of Prisons regulations during pretrial detention at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn when he paid other inmates to use their phone code numbers so he could make calls to individuals who were not on his approved contact list. He said there was also evidence that he told family members and defense counsel to add other people to three-way calls so their communications would be more difficult to trace and that he made efforts to influence his trial's jury pool or to reach potential witnesses. Subramanian said his “willingness to skirt” jailhouse rules to conceal communications was “strong evidence” that any conditions of release would not prevent similar behavior. The judge said defense claims that Combs stopped using one particular phone technique criticized by prosecutors was belied by the fact that Combs apparently used it again on Sunday, two days after his bail hearing last week. Even a bail proposal that would include the strictest form of home confinement seemed insufficient, the judge said. “Given the nature of the allegations in this case and the information provided by the government, the Court doubts the sufficiency of any conditions that place trust in Combs and individuals in his employ — like a private security detail — to follow those conditions,” Subramanian wrote.Great hopes and greater disappointments with Macron

Mississippi State overcomes early deficit to down Prairie View A&M

LONDON (AP) — West Ham beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-1 in the Premier League and heaped more pressure on beleaguered coach Gary O’Neil on Monday. Both sides came into the match under a cloud and the game was widely billed as a make-or-break match for O’Neill and West Ham counterpart Julen Lopetegui.

Just weeks after voters cast ballots in a presidential election many described as the most critical of their lifetime, another highly anticipated contest looms. Two candidates — both political newcomers — have jumped in, announcing they intend to enter the 2025 race to be the next mayor of Santa Fe. Tarin Nix, a political consultant and deputy commissioner of public affairs for the State Land Office, has launched an initiative called "Fix Our City Different," which she describes as a precursor to a mayoral campaign. Meanwhile, Oscar Rodriguez, a former Taos town manager and Santa Fe finance director, announced his candidacy this week in an op-ed published in The New Mexican . But elected officials, some of whom have been named as potential mayoral candidates or have expressed interest in the race, remain reluctant to publicly declare whether they have decided to run. Some said in September they were focused on the general election and weren't yet prepared to make a decision about next year's municipal election. One of them was Mayor Alan Webber, who is in his second term. Asked recently if he plans to seek a third term in office, Webber said it was still too early to comment. "We're still recovering from the general election," he said. Official filing deadlines for the 2025 local election won't come until summer. If Webber chooses to run, however, other contenders likely will need a significant amount of time to raise campaign funds and build name recognition. In 2021, Webber raised almost $500,000 — a record for the office. Rodriguez said in an interview he chose to declare his candidacy for mayor now because he believes he will need a long runway to get his name out there. "I just don't have the level of ID that others might have, particularly those who are on the [City] Council already," he said. City Councilor Carol Romero-Wirth — whose District 2 seat also is up for election in November 2025 — declined to comment in September on whether she plans to seek the higher office; like Webber, she cited a focus on the general election. She did not respond to multiple requests for comment this week on whether she plans to run for reelection or make a bid for mayor. Fellow District 2 Councilor Michael Garcia, whose political future has been the subject of significant speculation, said in September he was "seriously considering running" for mayor. More recently, however, he said it was too early for him to discuss any plans. Garcia, reelected to a second term in November 2023, wouldn't have to give up his council seat to run for mayor. In a statement last week, Garcia said it was an "honor" to be discussed as a potential candidate. "I will always fight to ensure that residents have a local government that represents them and their interests," he said. "I am still in the process of taking the necessary time with my family to make this important decision." Nix and Rodriguez have both framed their decision to enter the mayor's race around a desire to improve what they described as inadequate or failing city services. Nix released a video earlier this month detailing her Fix Our City Different initiative and describing what she sees as problems with city services as stemming from "a lack of will." "A majority of our issues could have been solved with real leadership and common sense," she said. Rodriguez wrote in his op-ed his campaign that getting basic city services right "only improves the quality of life of our community, it also builds the muscle to tackle bigger, more complex issues." He said in an interview he hopes people will be ready for a race focused on issues. He cited a quote from famed Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi. After taking over the team, Lombardi said he would turn it around not by making drastic changes or replacing the players but by becoming "brilliant at the basics." Rodriguez said the city needs more focus on maintenance and a system for addressing potholes and other problems as they arise. "A big part of delivering quality services is to prevent problems coming up in the first place," he said. He also expressed concern about high-level job vacancies at the city, which currently lacks a permanent city manager and community development director. Rodriguez served as the city's finance director for nearly two years, leaving in 2016 for a new job at the New Mexico Finance Authority, where he has remained since then. He believes he would be able to hit the ground running. "I'm confident I would be able to step into this role and make a significant immediate impact on morale, on transparency in the organization, on the quality of the services, etc.," he said. Nix had similar sentiments about improving city services. "If we can't do the basic functions of City Hall — which are infrastructure, roads, transportation, public safety, public health — then how do we get to really big ideas that move our community forward?" she said in an interview. She pointed to a recent, brief lapse of the city's contract with the Santa Fe Animal Shelter & Humane Society as evidence the city would be "hard-pressed" to say it is delivering basic services. She said the response to Fix Our City Different has been positive. "I think people are ready for a change." A website for the initiative will publish weekly videos about different issues affecting Santa Fe and allow people to self-report problems with things like sewer lines, roads, noise and light pollution. "The whole premise is that this is not political," Nix said. "This is really about how you deliver good government, and if you do it correctly, there shouldn't be this political undertone that exists right now in our city." Four city councilors' seats are also up for election in November. So far, only District 3 Councilor Lee Garcia has said he plans to run again. Signe Lindell in District 1, Romero-Wirth in District 2 and Amanda Chavez in District 4 did not respond to requests for comment. Some people who ran unsuccessfully for council seats in 2023 signaled they may be open to running again. Joel Nava, who lost a District 4 challenge against Councilor Jamie Cassutt, said he is exploring the possibility of another run but probably won't make a decision until spring. "I'm still disappointed with this administration, and I do feel that change is still needed, now more than ever," he said. Katherine Rivera, one of four candidates in last year's District 1 race, said she is exploring the possibility of running again and will make a decision in the new year. "I am definitely a potential candidate," Rivera said. Brian Gutierrez, a District 1 contender in both 2021 and 2023, said his decision will hinge on who else declares a candidacy. "If there’s a good candidate out there, then I will stay out. If nothing looks appealing, then I’ll probably throw my hat in the ring," he said Monday. He added, "I’m hoping somebody good jumps in, because I’m busy." Geno Zamora, the district's best-funded candidate in 2023, who lost to Alma Castro, said it's "too early to know anything." Phil Lucero, who ran unsuccessfully against Michael Garcia in District 2 last year, declined to comment.Russian President Vladimir Putin approved the federal budget for 2025 and the planned period of 2026-2027, according to a document released on the legal-acts portal on Sunday. Russia's revenues in 2025 are projected to reach about 40.3 trillion rubles ($378.5 billion), while expenditures are expected to amount to over 41 trillion rubles ($390 billion), resulting in a deficit of 0.5 percent of GDP, according to the budget. Russia's GDP is projected to reach 214.5 trillion rubles ($2.02 trillion) in 2025, rising to 230.5 trillion rubles ($2.17 trillion) in 2026 and 248.3 trillion rubles ($2.33 trillion) in 2027. Inflation is forecasted to remain below 4.5 percent in 2025 and 4 percent in the following years. Key priorities outlined in the budget include fulfilling social obligations, ensuring national security and defense, advancing technological sovereignty, and developing infrastructure, with a total of 21 trillion rubles ($197.3 billion) allocated for social policies, 14 trillion rubles ($131.5 billion) for defense and law enforcement, and 14 trillion rubles ($131.5 billion) for national economic development over the next three years.

By MITCH STACY COLUMBUS — A fight broke out at midfield after Michigan stunned No. 2 Ohio State 13-10 on Saturday as Wolverines players attempted to plant their flag and were met by Buckeyes who confronted them. Police had to use pepper spray to break up the players, who threw punches and shoves in the melee that overshadowed the rivalry game. Ohio State police said in a statement “multiple officers representing Ohio and Michigan deployed pepper spray.” Ohio State police will investigate the fight, according to the statement. After the Ohio State players confronted their bitter rivals at midfield, defensive end Jack Sawyer grabbed the top of the Wolverines’ flag and ripped it off the pole as the brawl moved toward the Michigan bench. Eventually, police officers rushed into the ugly scene. Ohio State coach Ryan Day said he understood the actions of his players. “There are some prideful guys on our team who weren’t going to sit back and let that happen,” Day said. The two Ohio State players made available after the game brushed off questions about it. Michigan running back Kalel Mullings, who rushed for 116 yards and a touchdown, didn’t like how the Buckeyes players involved themselves in the Wolverines’ postgame celebration. He called it “classless.” “For such a great game, you hate to see stuff like that after the game,” he said in an on-field interview with Fox Sports. “It’s just bad for the sport, bad for college football. But at the end of the day, you know some people got to — they got to learn how to lose, man. ... We had 60 minutes, we had four quarters, to do all that fighting.” Michigan coach Sherrone Moore said everybody needs to do better. “So much emotions on both sides,” he said. “Rivalry games get heated, especially this one. It’s the biggest one in the country, so we got to handle that better.”The Latest: Police in Pennsylvania question a man over the killing of UnitedHealthcare's CEOJosh Hubbard scored 25 points and Claudell Harris Jr. scored 21 on 6-of-9 shooting as Mississippi State escaped with a 91-84 win against Prairie View A&M on Sunday in Starkville, Miss. Prairie View A&M took a 65-64 lead with 10:38 remaining, but Hubbard and Harris Jr. each scored seven points to power the ensuing 14-1 run that put Mississippi State up for good. Hubbard punctuated the rally with a 3-pointer that made it 78-66 with 5:51 to play. The Bulldogs (8-1) stretched their lead to as many as 13 points in the closing minutes to notch their second straight win. Shawn Jones Jr. added 11 points for Mississippi State, while Michael Nwoko added 10 points and 10 rebounds. RJ Melendez also netted 10 points. The Panthers (1-8) were led by the trio of Nick Anderson (21 points) Tanahj Pettway (20) and Marcel Bryant (19). Pettway drilled 4 of 5 3-pointers and Bryant grabbed seven rebounds. Prairie View A&M got off to a hot start, opening up a 27-12 lead with 10:42 left in the first half. It was a surprising haymaker from the visitors, who entered the game winless in Division I play and faced a Bulldogs team that was ranked last week. Mississippi State eventually found its stride offensively, turning things around with a 32-17 run to tie the game at 44 entering halftime. The Bulldogs shot 50 percent from the field overall in the first half, but only made six of their 17 attempts from 3-point range (35.3 percent). Their defense remained an issue throughout the half, with the Panthers hitting 16 of their 27 shots (59.3 percent) and canning 5 of 8 3-pointers. Neither team led by more than five early in the second half until Mississippi State pulled away. The Bulldogs finished the game shooting 55.6 percent from the floor (30-of-54) and drilled 11 of 26 attempts (42.3 percent) from long range. They outrebounded Prairie View A&M 35-22 and outscored them 31-20 in bench points. The Panthers held a 34-32 advantage in points in the paint and shot 56.4 percent overall for the game, including 52.6 percent (10-of-19) on threes. --Field Level Media

Will Brown, the 2024 Australia Supercars champion, has set his sights on entering the NASCAR Cup Series for the 2025 season. Brown, a 26-year-old Australian road racer known for his formidable skills and recent success in Supercars, revealed his plans to take part in two NASCAR Cup Series races during the Supercars' Drivers' Only Podcast . The races he is targeting are the Circuit of the Americas on March 2 and the Chicago Street Course on July 6. Brown has admitted a keen interest in driving the No. 33 car for Richard Childress Racing, the team he raced with when he debuted in the sport in 2024. The move from Supercars to NASCAR involves plenty of adjustment, as the cars in each series have distinct characteristics regarding weight and engine setups. Nonetheless, Brown's plan to race in the NASCAR series demonstrates his eagerness to test his skills on a new playing field. However, Brown faces challenges in securing the RCR No. 33 car for the Chicago Street Course due to the surge in interest from other drivers eager to take pat in this prestigious race. "Hopefully two NASCAR races. That's the plan," Brown stated optimistically. "Chicago is one I want to do but a lot of the guys over there want to do it, so it's [dependent on] if a car is available, a team is available." Should he encounter issues in joining the NASCAR Cup Series at Chicago, he admitted that he would also like to drive in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. He respects the Xfinity Series as a strong alternative. "Obviously, Xfinity over there is pretty big." Brown's attempt at the NASCAR Cup Series follows his debut in 2024 with Richard Childress Racing, where his performance at the Toyota / Save Mart 350 faced setbacks due to mechanical issues that resulted in a 31st-place finish. Despite this, he demonstrated potential during practice sessions at Sonoma Raceway, where he achieved the third-fastest time. These experiences will undoubtedly play a strong role as he prepares for his 2025 campaign. Racing for Richard Childress Racing, one of NASCAR's most storied teams, is an indication of Brown's access to top-tier resources and support. The team, known for its past successes with drivers like Dale Earnhardt and Kevin Harvick, offers Brown an established platform to help navigate the complexities of transitioning to the popular sport. Brown remains determined as he looks forward to joining in both the Circuit of the Americas and the Chicago Street Course. "I'll say one, but hopefully two if the car's available," he said. "I'm waiting to hear on that one. That'd be awesome if I could try and do that, but I'd be happy to do Xfinity if I couldn't get that."

By FARNOUSH AMIRI, Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) — Former Rep. Matt Gaetz said Friday that he will not be returning to Congress after withdrawing his name from consideration to be attorney general under President-elect Donald Trump amid growing allegations of sexual misconduct. “I’m still going to be in the fight, but it’s going to be from a new perch. I do not intend to join the 119th Congress,” Gaetz told conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, adding that he has “some other goals in life that I’m eager to pursue with my wife and my family.” Related Articles The announcement comes a day after Gaetz, a Florida Republican, stepped aside from the Cabinet nomination process amid growing fallout from federal and House Ethics investigations that cast doubt on his ability to be confirmed as the nation’s chief federal law enforcement officer. The 42-year-old has vehemently denied the allegations against him. Gaetz’s nomination as attorney general had stunned many career lawyers inside the Justice Department, but reflected Trump’s desire to place a loyalist in a department he has marked for retribution following the criminal cases against him. Hours after Gaetz withdrew, Trump nominated Pam Bondi, the former Florida attorney general, who would come to the job with years of legal work under her belt and that other trait Trump prizes above all: loyalty. It’s unclear what’s next for Gaetz, who is no longer a member of the House. He surprised colleagues by resigning from Congress the same day that Trump nominated him for attorney general. Some speculated he could still be sworn into office for another two-year term on Jan. 3, given that he had just won reelection earlier this month. But Gaetz, who has been in state and national politics for 14 years, said he’s done with Congress. “I think that eight years is probably enough time in the United States Congress,” he said.

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The US State and Treasury departments said they hit Georgian Dream party founder and honorary chairman Bidzina Ivanishvili with penalties “for undermining the democratic and Euro-Atlantic future of Georgia for the benefit of the Russian Federation”, according to a statement. The designation of Mr Ivanishvili is the latest in a series of sanctions the US has placed on Georgian politicians and others this year. Those sanctions include freezes on assets and properties those targeted may have in US jurisdictions or that might enter US jurisdictions as well as travel bans on the targets and members of their families. “We strongly condemn Georgian Dream’s actions under Ivanishvili’s leadership, including its ongoing and violent repression of Georgian citizens, protesters, members of the media, human rights activists, and opposition figures,” the State Department said in a statement. “The United States is committed to promoting accountability for those undermining democracy and human rights in Georgia.” Mr Ivanishvili is a billionaire who made his fortune in Russia and served briefly as Georgia’s prime minister. In 2012, he founded Georgian Dream, Georgia’s longtime ruling party. Critics have accused Georgian Dream of becoming increasingly authoritarian and tilted towards Moscow. The party recently pushed through laws similar to those used by the Kremlin to crack down on freedom of speech and LGBT+ rights, prompting the European Union to suspend Georgia’s membership application process indefinitely. In October, Georgian Dream won another term in a divisive parliamentary election that has led to more mass protests. Last month, the country’s prime minister, Irakli Kobakhidze, announced a four-year suspension of talks on Georgia’s bid to join the European Union, fuelling further public outrage.Arizona junior offensive lineman Jonah Savaiinaea is heading for the NFL. Savaiinaea officially declared for the NFL Draft on Sunday and will forego his senior season, he announced on his social media accounts. Savaiinaea is a projected first- or second-round pick. Savaiinaea is projected by ESPN to land at No. 31 overall to the Detroit Lions. ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller said Savaiinaea is "a mauler in the run game and has shown improved footwork and poise in pass-blocking." Miller also projects wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan as the first Wildcat taken at eighth overall by the Carolina Panthers. It's conceivable Arizona has two first-round picks in the same draft since linebacker Chris Singleton (New England Patriots) and defensive end Anthony Smith (Oakland Raiders) in 1990. In his farewell post on Instagram, Savaiinaea thanked Jedd Fisch and Brent Brennan, his two coaches at the UA, along with offensive line coaches Brennan Carroll and Josh Oglesby and his family and teammates. "Finally, to the Wildcat family, thank you all for welcoming me here in Tucson," Savaiinaea said. "It has been an unforgettable experience the past three years. Thank you for the never-ending support and love." Arizona offensive lineman Jonah Savaiinaea (71) awaits the snap of the football during the Wildcats’ win over Utah on Sept. 28 in Salt Lake City, Utah. The 6-5, 336-pound Savaiinaea, a Tafuna, American Samoa native, switched positions thrice since becoming a Wildcat. After signing with Arizona in 2022 following a standout career at St. Louis High School in Honolulu, Savaiinaea played 2,418 snaps — including 1,057 at right tackle, 985 at right guard and 345 at left tackle. Savaiinaea took over the reins at left tackle once redshirt freshman Rhino Tapa'atoutai suffered a season-ending leg injury, but missed the season finale against Arizona State due to a leg he injury he suffered against TCU. “He’s so special,” Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita said of Savaiinaea. “That’s been the case since he got on campus. He started as a true freshman at guard, moved to right tackle last year and then obviously moved to left tackle when Rhino went down. His versatility, his swagger, his confidence — he’s never afraid to do what he needs to do for the team. “Him being an offensive lineman, he doesn’t get as much attention as he should, but at the end of the day, he’s a first-round draft pick. That’s been that way since he arrived campus. It’s a blessing having him protect us.” Savaiinaea was Arizona's most durable, plug-and-play offensive lineman in the last three years. Savaiinaea allowed eight sacks and five quarterback hits in three years, according to Pro Football Focus. "That speaks to what kind of teammate he is (and) how much he cares about Arizona football," said Brennan. "His willingness to move from right tackle to left tackle, then back to right and back to left. That speaks so much about how much he cares about his team, how much he cares about his teammates and how much he cares about the U of A." Savaiinaea is “an awesome football player and an even better person,” Brennan said. “Anyone who knows big Jonah know he has a huge heart, definitely a hard worker, crazy competitor and it’s so important to him," he added. "I’m excited for the next chapter for him.” Contact Justin Spears, the Star's Arizona football beat reporter, at jspears@tucson.com . On X(Twitter): @JustinESports Respond: Write a letter to the editor | Write a guest opinion Subscribe to stay connected to Tucson. A subscription helps you access more of the local stories that keep you connected to the community. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sports Reporter

Winter Weather Advisory for Potter county in Pennsylvania from 10pm Friday through 9am Saturday. A light glaze of ice is possible as precipitation approaches overnight. It's a sports weekend in WNY as the Bandits are back at the arena on Saturday, a Buffalo trifecta! The Sabres' play Friday evening with decent weather conditions for game time. Temps in the 40s, light winds and dry conditions with only a spotty sprinkle possible as the game comes to an end. Much milder air on Saturday as temperatures rise into the 50s. A few spotty showers are possible into the evening with areas of fog as the milder air spills into WNY. As the Bills take the field Sunday, it'll be a soggy. Wet and warm by winter standards as temperatures soar to levels some 20-25 degrees above the average! SATURDAY MORNING: Mostly cloudy, spotty sprinkle. Upper 30s AFTERNOON: Isolated shower. Mild. Mid 50s SUNDAY MORNING: Occasional rain. Mid 40s. AFTERNOON: Periods of rain. Upper 50s MONDAY MORNING: Few showers. Near 40 AFTERNOON: Rain shower and snow showers on hills. Upper 40s. TUESDAY MORNING: Mostly cloudy. Low 30s. AFTERNOON: Scattered showers. Lower 40s.Twelve people were injured when a California cop lost control of his motorcycle and crashed into spectators at the annual Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade on Saturday. Those hurt included a child and and older couple, and witnesses described the grisly scene that unfolded after the officer revved his engine and zoomed along downtown North Palm Canyon Drive around 6 p.m., according to the local Desert Sun newspaper. "We did see him pop a wheelie and all of a sudden he went sideways and skid all the way over there," Veronica Ortiz of Pittsburg, California, said. After losing control, the cop "let go of the bike and it went straight into the crowd," Ortiz said. Viewer video shows the moment a Palm Springs police officer crashes into the crowd at the Festival of Lights Parade. 10 people were injured including the officer. We'll have the latest updates tonight at 10 and 11 pm Details: https://t.co/3vx2ZZTmmI pic.twitter.com/M6y9VMuSFH Byron Ruvalcaba of Riverside, California, said that he raced to the accident scene and that one of the cop's hands appeared to have been severed. Ruvalcaba also said outraged paradegoers were yelling at the officer, who was recorded on cellphone video. He was seen zipping past another motorcycle cop who was riding in a circle in the street. "I was telling my partner here that they were going dumbly fast," Ruvalcaba said. "To my eyes, they were going recklessly. My guess is 25 to 35 miles per hour." Palm Springs Public Information Officer Kitty Alvarado dismissed as "rumor" the allegation that the cop intentionally tried to balance his moving motorcycle on its rear wheel and said the crash would be investigated by the California Highway Patrol , the Desert Sun said. On Sunday afternoon, Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills identified the injured officer as Kenneth Merenda and said he was "alert and conversant" when Mills and others visited him in the hospital earlier in the day. "I am happy to report he will likely recover mobility in his hand," Mills wrote on his personal Facebook page. "Kenny expressed deep concern for all of those injured and wishes them a full and speedy recovery." Merenda was hired in March 2018, the Palm Springs Police Department said on Facebook at the time. In addition to Merenda, 11 other people were taken to the hospital and two were still receiving treatment, Mills said. Mills, who earlier said he was "truly sorry" for the crash, said he was "aware of social media accounts containing video of the accident." "There is also video of officers demonstrating traffic control maneuvers," Mills wrote. "All of the video available to us will be analyzed and included in the investigation conducted by the California Highway Patrol. Once I have a full understanding of what took place, what caused the accident, and what we could have done differently, I will report back to the community our findings."

'B***h new laws!' California shoplifting suspect surprised stealing is now a felonyPresident Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that 2025 will usher in a new wave of progress and opportunities for the country. Speaking during a nationwide presidential media chat, Tinubu expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their patience and support while reaffirming his commitment to steering the nation toward prosperity. The President highlighted the successes of his administration’s reforms, stating that they are strategically designed to position Nigeria on a path of sustainable growth. “We are nearly 18 months into this tenure, and I assure you that things will work out well for Nigeria again,” Tinubu declared. ALSO READ: Gombe ACReSAL trains 500 on rainwater harvesting He also disclosed that in the past three months, his administration has refrained from collecting funds from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), emphasising that his policies have already started generating sufficient revenue. Responding to a question from media personality Ruben Abati about his Christmas message to Nigerians, Tinubu reiterated his optimism for the coming year. “As we celebrate Christmas, I want to assure every Nigerian that 2025 will be a promising year. I seek your continued patience and support as we build a better future together,” he said. Tinubu’s message is a rallying call for unity and faith in the administration’s efforts to rebuild and strengthen the nation, promising Nigerians that brighter days lie ahead. NIGERIAN TRIBUNEGlobal Generative AI In Retail Market Set For 39.7% Growth, Reaching $3.01 Billion By 2028RADNOR, Pa., Dec. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP informs investors that the firm has filed a securities fraud class action lawsuit against Enphase Energy, Inc. ENPH ("Enphase" or the "Company") on behalf of all persons and entities who purchased or otherwise acquired Enphase common stock between April 25, 2023, and October 22, 2024, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action, captioned The Trustees of the Welfare and Pension Funds of Local 464A - Pension Fund v. Enphase Energy, Inc., et al. , Case No. 3:24-cv-09038, was filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. Important Deadline Reminder: Investors who purchased or otherwise acquired Enphase common stock during the Class Period may, no later than February 11, 2025, move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff for the class. CONTACT KESSLER TOPAZ MELTZER & CHECK, LLP: If you suffered Enphase losses, you may CLICK HERE or go to: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/enphase-energy-inc-class-action?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=enph&mktm=r You can also contact attorney Jonathan Naji, Esq. of Kessler Topaz by calling (484) 270-1453 or by email at info@ktmc.com . DEFENDANTS' MISCONDUCT Enphase develops, manufactures, and sells solar microinverters, which are primarily used in residential solar installations to convert solar panel output from direct current to alternating current (which can be transmitted to the power grid). As is relevant here, Enphase's international revenue has been growing in recent years as the Company expands globally, particularly in Europe, with international revenue accounting for more than 35% of the Company's total revenue in 2023. Prior to the beginning of the Class Period, Chinese solar companies were significantly disrupting the European solar inverter market by selling or "dumping" their products at extremely low prices, a fact highlighted by Morgan Stanley Research on April 24, 2023, when it reported that Chinese inverter export value increased 156% year-over-year internationally, with the Netherlands and Germany—two of Enphase's key markets in Europe—showing year-over-year surges of 342% and 330%, respectively. The Class Period begins on April 25, 2023, when the Company announced its first quarter 2023 financial results. Among other things, Enphase reported an approximately 25% year-over-year increase in European revenue. During the accompanying quarterly investor earnings call held that same day, Defendant Badrinarayanan Kothandaraman, the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer, touted that Enphase's "European business is growing rapidly," with "sell-through of our microinverters in Europe reach[ing] an all time high" in the quarter. When asked specifically about competition in Europe from Chinese manufacturers and the risk of margin erosion caused by price deflation from those competitors, Defendant Raghuveer Belur, a Company co-founder and the Company's Senior Vice President and Chief Products Officer, dismissed such concerns, stating that "[c]ompetition is strong everywhere" and is "nothing new [in Europe]," while Defendant Kothandaraman claimed that Enphase does not "see any drop in [it's] pricing." Investors began to learn the truth about Enphase's competitive challenges in Europe after the market closed on October 26, 2023, when the Company reported an approximately 34% quarter-over-quarter decline in European revenue in the third quarter of 2023 due to "softening in demand." During the accompanying quarterly investor earnings call held that same day, Defendant Kothandaraman was adamant that the Company would not adjust its pricing strategies, despite countervailing competitive market forces, emphasizing that "there's no broad-based pricing adjustment from us." In response to the decline in European revenue and Defendant Kothandaraman's unwillingness to consider pricing adjustments, analysts at BofA Securities reiterated their underperform rating on the stock and criticized the Company for refusing to cut prices to pursue market share, as "competitive risks" endured in Europe. On this news, the price of Enphase common stock declined $14.09 per share, or nearly 15%, from a close of $96.18 per share on October 26, 2023, to close at $82.09 per share on October 27, 2023. Throughout the remainder of the Class Period, Defendants continued to downplay the competitive threats in the European solar inverter market and reassured investors that Enphase's European pricing strategy was sound. Investors fully learned the truth about Enphase's competitive positioning in Europe after the market closed on October 22, 2024, when the Company announced its third quarter 2024 financial results and revealed an approximately 15% quarter-over-quarter decline in European revenue due to "further softening in European demand." During the accompanying quarterly investor earnings call held that same day, Defendant Kothandaraman was again asked whether, in light of the Company's weakness in Europe, Enphase would alter its pricing strategy. While he acknowledged that the Company had occasionally made customer-specific price concessions, Defendant Kothandaraman reiterated that "we are not dropping pricing anywhere," despite prevailing competitive headwinds. In response to Enphase's continued poor performance in Europe, Guggenheim downgraded Enphase stock to a sell rating from a neutral rating and explained that Enphase is "losing share to Chinese competitors who are willing to sell at less than half [Enphase]'s level." On this news, the price of Enphase common stock declined $13.76 per share, or nearly 15%, from a close of $92.23 per share on October 22, 2024, to close at $78.47 per share on October 23, 2024. WHAT CAN I DO? Enphase investors may, no later than February 11, 2025, move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff for the class, through Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP or other counsel, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP encourages Enphase investors who have suffered significant losses to contact the firm directly to acquire more information. WHO CAN BE A LEAD PLAINTIFF? A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation. The lead plaintiff is usually the investor or small group of investors who have the largest financial interest and who are also adequate and typical of the proposed class of investors. The lead plaintiff selects counsel to represent the lead plaintiff and the class and these attorneys, if approved by the court, are lead or class counsel. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision of whether or not to serve as a lead plaintiff. ABOUT KESSLER TOPAZ MELTZER & CHECK, LLP Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP prosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country and around the world. The firm has developed a global reputation for excellence and has recovered billions of dollars for victims of fraud and other corporate misconduct. All of our work is driven by a common goal: to protect investors, consumers, employees and others from fraud, abuse, misconduct and negligence by businesses and fiduciaries. For more information about Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP please visit www.ktmc.com . CONTACT: Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP Jonathan Naji, Esq. 280 King of Prussia Road Radnor, PA 19087 (484) 270-1453 info@ktmc.com May be considered attorney advertising in certain jurisdictions. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Residents and merchants are hopeful 2025 will bring good fortune to Wortley Village in the wake of two devastating fires. Thankfully for them, a building lost will soon rise again. In April 2023, the popular Black Walnut Café went up in flames. It is a moment forever etched in the mind of its co-owner, Mandy Etheridge. “I’ll just never forget that phone call," said Etheridge, reflecting on a phone call in the middle of the night from her brother. "’Mandy, Wortley is burning,’ he said. That will stick with me forever.” The 1880s building was destroyed in the blaze, later determined to be arson. Days later, Etheridge and her brother, the other co-owner, promised to rebuild. But it has been a long process. “It felt like a never-ending battle, really", she told CTV News London. But with construction activity at the site, excitement is growing amongst villagers. Mandy Etheridge, co-owner of the Black Walnut Café, seen on Dec. 27, 2024. (Sean Irvine/CTV News London) “It's really great to see things are progressing in terms of the rebuild. and it'll be wonderful to have that pillar of the community back," said longtime Wortley Village resident Hayley Baker. Etheridge said the new Black Walnut Café will resemble its predecessor in many historical aspects when it reopens this coming October, “We never wanted the old building to go away. And so, we wanted to keep it like a homage to what it was. And hopefully, do it justice.” Yet, as the rebuild begins, the Wortley Village community continues to absorb another devastating fire . The blaze on Nov. 28 destroyed one business and damaged two others. “I couldn't believe it. Like, I don't know why this seems to be happening," commented Etheridge to the fire impacting her neighbours. The blaze is also being treated as an arson. While upsetting for Etheridge, she is trying to hold on to optimism as her corner of the village rises again with the community's support. “We can’t be more thankful for their support and encouragement over the past two years of this process,” she said. Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. 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Toronto 3 men wanted after Pickering business set on fire twice in one month Two fires at a business in Pickering in May have police on the lookout for three suspects wanted for arson. Man arrested after alleged choking and armed robbery in downtown Toronto Police have arrested a man after an alleged assault and robbery in downtown Toronto on Christmas Eve. Free Wi-Fi service in TTC subway stations ends Free Wi-Fi in TTC subway stations has ended. As of Friday, riders could no longer access TConnect service. Montreal After cold, snowy Christmas, temperatures to rise across southern Quebec for new year After a cold, snowy Christmas, temperatures are set to rise across southern Quebec to bring in the new year. Tugboats, crews try to refloat ship stuck in St. Lawrence River near Montreal A team of tugboats is being deployed to refloat a ship that has been stuck in the St. Lawrence River northeast of Montreal since Christmas Eve. Should Quebecers consider earthquake home insurance? 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Regina police launch homicide investigation after injured man dies at scene Regina police have launched a homicide investigation following the death of a man found gravely injured Thursday evening. Travel not recommended for parts of Saskatchewan under risk of freezing rain Travel advisories are in effect for parts of south and central Saskatchewan on Friday, with icy roadways and the risk of freezing rain making for dangerous driving conditions. Saskatoon Calgary woman killed in Saskatchewan highway crash A 25-year-old woman from Calgary was killed in a crash on Highway 7, west of Rosetown, Saskatchewan on Christmas Eve. Travel not recommended for parts of Saskatchewan under risk of freezing rain Travel advisories are in effect for parts of south and central Saskatchewan on Friday, with icy roadways and the risk of freezing rain making for dangerous driving conditions. Raised in Sask. after his family fled Hungary, this man spent decades spying on communists for the RCMP As a Communist Party member in Calgary in the early 1940s, Frank Hadesbeck performed clerical work at the party office, printed leaflets and sold books. Vancouver B.C. man charged with dangerous driving after elderly Good Samaritan killed in crash A man is facing multiple charges of dangerous driving following a collision that led to the death of an 80-year-old Good Samaritan on Vancouver Island, B.C. Whooping cough is on the rise in the States. What's happening in Canada? Canadian health officials say they're seeing spikes in whooping cough cases in parts of the country as the U.S. deals with case numbers not seen in more than a decade. Vees ready to resume hot streak following Christmas break with games Saturday and Sunday at SOEC While you never want to take a break when your team is playing the best hockey of the season, head coach and general manager Fred Harbinson said it’s also nice for his players on the Penticton Vees to go home, visit family and friends and get their mind off hockey for a few days. Vancouver Island Year-end interview: John Rustad on B.C. Conservatives' remarkable 2024 It's been quite the year for B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad – his party soaring from less than two per cent of the popular vote and no seats in the 2020 election to nearly winning this year’s election. B.C woman awarded nearly $750K in court case against contractor A B.C. woman has been awarded nearly $750,000 in damages in a dispute with a contractor who strung her along for a year and a half and failed to complete a renovation, according to a recent court decision. 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NoneWASHINGTON — Donald Trump said he can't guarantee his promised tariffs on key U.S. foreign trade partners won't raise prices for American consumers and suggested once more that some political rivals and federal officials who pursued legal cases against him should be imprisoned. The president-elect, in a wide-ranging interview with NBC's "Meet the Press" that aired Sunday, also touched on monetary policy, immigration, abortion and health care, and U.S. involvement in Ukraine, Israel and elsewhere. Trump often mixed declarative statements with caveats, at one point cautioning "things do change." Here's a look at some of the issues covered: President-elect Donald Trump takes the stage before he speaks at the FOX Nation Patriot Awards, Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024, in Greenvale, N.Y. (AP Photo/Heather Khalifa) Trump threatened broad trade penalties, but said he didn't believe economists' predictions that added costs on those imported goods for American companies would lead to higher domestic prices for consumers. He stopped short of a pledge that U.S. an households won't be paying more as they shop. "I can't guarantee anything. I can't guarantee tomorrow," Trump said, seeming to open the door to accepting the reality of how import levies typically work as goods reach the retail market. That's a different approach from Trump's typical speeches throughout the 2024 campaign, when he framed his election as a sure way to curb inflation. In the interview, Trump defended tariffs generally, saying that tariffs are "going to make us rich." He has pledged that, on his first day in office in January, he would impose 25% tariffs on all goods imported from Mexico and Canada unless those countries satisfactorily stop illegal immigration and the flow of illegal drugs such as fentanyl into the United States. He also has threatened tariffs on China to help force that country to crack down on fentanyl production. "All I want to do is I want to have a level, fast, but fair playing field," Trump said. He offered conflicting statements on how he would approach the justice system after winning election despite being convicted of 34 felonies in a New York state court and being indicted in other cases for his handling of national security secrets and efforts to overturn his 2020 loss to Democrat Joe Biden. "Honestly, they should go to jail," Trump said of members of Congress who investigated the Capitol riot by his supporters who wanted him to remain in power. The president-elect underscored his contention that he can use the justice system against others, including special prosecutor Jack Smith, who led the case on Trump's role in the siege on Jan. 6, 2021. Trump confirmed his plan to pardon supporters who were convicted for their roles in the riot, saying he would take that action on his first day in office. As for the idea of revenge driving potential prosecutions, Trump said: "I have the absolute right. I'm the chief law enforcement officer, you do know that. I'm the president. But I'm not interested in that." At the same time, Trump singled out lawmakers on a special House committee who investigated the insurrection, citing Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., and former Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyo. "Cheney was behind it ... so was Bennie Thompson and everybody on that committee," Trump said. Asked specifically whether he would direct his administration to pursue cases, he said, "No," and suggested he did not expect the FBI to quickly undertake investigations into his political enemies. At another point, Trump said he would leave the matter up to Pam Bondi, his pick as attorney general. "I want her to do what she wants to do," he said. Such threats, regardless of Trump's inconsistencies, have been taken seriously enough by many top Democrats that Biden is considering issuing blanket, preemptive pardons to protect key members of his outgoing administration. Trump did seemingly back off his campaign rhetoric calling for Biden to be investigated, saying, "I'm not looking to go back into the past." Immigration advocates hold a rally in Sacramento, Calif. on Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, to protest President-Elect Donald Trump's plans to conduct mass deportation of immigrants without legal status. (AP Photo/Haven Daley) Trump repeatedly mentioned his promises to seal the U.S.-Mexico border and deport millions of people who are in the U.S. illegally through a mass deportation program. "I think you have to do it," he said. He suggested he would try to use executive action to end "birthright" citizenship under which people born in the U.S. are considered citizens — though such protections are spelled out in the Constitution. Asked specifically about the future for people who were brought into the country illegally as children and were shielded from deportation in recent years, Trump said, "I want to work something out," indicating he might seek a solution with Congress. But Trump also said he does not "want to be breaking up families" of mixed legal status, "so the only way you don't break up the family is you keep them together and you have to send them all back." President-elect Donald Trump shakes hands with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Notre Dame Cathedral as France's iconic cathedral is formally reopening its doors for the first time since a devastating fire nearly destroyed the 861-year-old landmark in 2019, Saturday Dec.7, 2024 in Paris ( Ludovic Marin, Pool via AP) Long a critic of NATO members for not spending more on their own defense, Trump said he "absolutely" would remain in the alliance "if they pay their bills." Pressed on whether he would withdraw if he were dissatisfied with allies' commitments, Trump said he wants the U.S. treated "fairly" on trade and defense. He waffled on a NATO priority of containing Russia and President Vladimir Putin. Trump suggested Ukraine should prepare for less U.S. aid in its defense against Putin's invasion. "Possibly. Yeah, probably. Sure," Trump said of reducing Ukraine assistance from Washington. Separately, Trump called for an immediate cease-fire. Asked about Putin, Trump said initially that he has not talked to the Russian leader since Election Day last month, but then hedged. "I haven't spoken to him recently," Trump said when pressed, adding that he did not want to "impede the negotiation." Federal Reserve Board Chairman Jerome Powell speaks during a news conference at the Federal Reserve in Washington, Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) The president-elect said he has no intention, at least for now, of asking Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell to step down before Powell's term ends in 2028. Trump said during the campaign that presidents should have more say in Fed policy, including interest rates. Trump did not offer any job assurances for FBI Director Christopher Wray, whose term is to end in 2027. Asked about Wray, Trump said: "Well, I mean, it would sort of seem pretty obvious" that if the Senate confirms Kash Patel as Trump's pick for FBI chief, then "he's going to be taking somebody's place, right? Somebody is the man that you're talking about." Trump promised that the government efficiency effort led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy will not threaten Social Security. "We're not touching Social Security, other than we make it more efficient," he said. He added that "we're not raising ages or any of that stuff." He was not so specific about abortion or his long-promised overhaul of the Affordable Care Act. On abortion, Trump continued his inconsistencies and said he would "probably" not move to restrict access to the abortion pills that now account for a majority of pregnancy terminations, according to the Guttmacher Institute, which supports abortion rights. But pressed on whether he would commit to that position, Trump replied, "Well, I commit. I mean, are — things do — things change. I think they change." Reprising a line from his Sept. 10 debate against Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump again said he had "concepts" of a plan to substitute for the 2010 Affordable Care Act, which he called "lousy health care." He added a promise that any Trump version would maintain insurance protections for Americans with preexisting health conditions. He did not explain how such a design would be different from the status quo or how he could deliver on his desire for "better health care for less money." Among President-elect Donald Trump's picks are Susie Wiles for chief of staff, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio for secretary of state, former Democratic House member Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence and Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Susie Wiles, 67, was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and its de facto manager. Trump named Florida Sen. Marco Rubio to be secretary of state, making a former sharp critic his choice to be the new administration's top diplomat. Rubio, 53, is a noted hawk on China, Cuba and Iran, and was a finalist to be Trump's running mate on the Republican ticket last summer. Rubio is the vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “He will be a strong Advocate for our Nation, a true friend to our Allies, and a fearless Warrior who will never back down to our adversaries,” Trump said of Rubio in a statement. The announcement punctuates the hard pivot Rubio has made with Trump, whom the senator called a “con man" during his unsuccessful campaign for the 2016 GOP presidential nomination. Their relationship improved dramatically while Trump was in the White House. And as Trump campaigned for the presidency a third time, Rubio cheered his proposals. For instance, Rubio, who more than a decade ago helped craft immigration legislation that included a path to citizenship for people in the U.S. illegally, now supports Trump's plan to use the U.S. military for mass deportations. Pete Hegseth, 44, is a co-host of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend” and has been a contributor with the network since 2014, where he developed a friendship with Trump, who made regular appearances on the show. Hegseth lacks senior military or national security experience. If confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit the top job during a series of global crises — ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the ongoing attacks in the Middle East by Iranian proxies to the push for a cease-fire between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah and escalating worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea. Hegseth is also the author of “The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free,” published earlier this year. Trump tapped Pam Bondi, 59, to be attorney general after U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz withdrew his name from consideration. She was Florida's first female attorney general, serving between 2011 and 2019. She also was on Trump’s legal team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. Considered a loyalist, she served as part of a Trump-allied outside group that helped lay the groundwork for his future administration called the America First Policy Institute. Bondi was among a group of Republicans who showed up to support Trump at his hush money criminal trial in New York that ended in May with a conviction on 34 felony counts. A fierce defender of Trump, she also frequently appears on Fox News and has been a critic of the criminal cases against him. Trump picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, a well-known conservative who faced sharp criticism for telling a story in her memoir about shooting a rambunctious dog, to lead an agency crucial to the president-elect’s hardline immigration agenda. Noem used her two terms leading a tiny state to vault to a prominent position in Republican politics. South Dakota is usually a political afterthought. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, Noem did not order restrictions that other states had issued and instead declared her state “open for business.” Trump held a fireworks rally at Mount Rushmore in July 2020 in one of the first large gatherings of the pandemic. She takes over a department with a sprawling mission. In addition to key immigration agencies, the Department of Homeland Security oversees natural disaster response, the U.S. Secret Service, and Transportation Security Administration agents who work at airports. The governor of North Dakota, who was once little-known outside his state, Burgum is a former Republican presidential primary contender who endorsed Trump, and spent months traveling to drum up support for him, after dropping out of the race. Burgum was a serious contender to be Trump’s vice presidential choice this summer. The two-term governor was seen as a possible pick because of his executive experience and business savvy. Burgum also has close ties to deep-pocketed energy industry CEOs. Trump made the announcement about Burgum joining his incoming administration while addressing a gala at his Mar-a-Lago club, and said a formal statement would be coming the following day. In comments to reporters before Trump took the stage, Burgum said that, in recent years, the power grid is deteriorating in many parts of the country, which he said could raise national security concerns but also drive up prices enough to increase inflation. “There's just a sense of urgency, and a sense of understanding in the Trump administration,” Burgum said. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran for president as a Democrat, than as an independent, and then endorsed Trump . He's the son of Democratic icon Robert Kennedy, who was assassinated during his own presidential campaign. The nomination of Kennedy to lead the Department of Health and Human Services alarmed people who are concerned about his record of spreading unfounded fears about vaccines . For example, he has long advanced the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism. Scott Bessent, 62, is a former George Soros money manager and an advocate for deficit reduction. He's the founder of hedge fund Key Square Capital Management, after having worked on-and-off for Soros Fund Management since 1991. If confirmed by the Senate, he would be the nation’s first openly gay treasury secretary. He told Bloomberg in August that he decided to join Trump’s campaign in part to attack the mounting U.S. national debt. That would include slashing government programs and other spending. “This election cycle is the last chance for the U.S. to grow our way out of this mountain of debt without becoming a sort of European-style socialist democracy,” he said then. Oregon Republican U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer narrowly lost her reelection bid this month, but received strong backing from union members in her district. As a potential labor secretary, she would oversee the Labor Department’s workforce, its budget and put forth priorities that impact workers’ wages, health and safety, ability to unionize, and employer’s rights to fire employers, among other responsibilities. Chavez-DeRemer is one of few House Republicans to endorse the “Protecting the Right to Organize” or PRO Act would allow more workers to conduct organizing campaigns and would add penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights. The act would also weaken “right-to-work” laws that allow employees in more than half the states to avoid participating in or paying dues to unions that represent workers at their places of employment. Scott Turner is a former NFL player and White House aide. He ran the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council during Trump’s first term in office. Trump, in a statement, credited Turner, the highest-ranking Black person he’s yet selected for his administration, with “helping to lead an Unprecedented Effort that Transformed our Country’s most distressed communities.” Sean Duffy is a former House member from Wisconsin who was one of Trump's most visible defenders on cable news. Duffy served in the House for nearly nine years, sitting on the Financial Services Committee and chairing the subcommittee on insurance and housing. He left Congress in 2019 for a TV career and has been the host of “The Bottom Line” on Fox Business. Before entering politics, Duffy was a reality TV star on MTV, where he met his wife, “Fox and Friends Weekend” co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy. They have nine children. A campaign donor and CEO of Denver-based Liberty Energy, Write is a vocal advocate of oil and gas development, including fracking — a key pillar of Trump’s quest to achieve U.S. “energy dominance” in the global market. Wright also has been one of the industry’s loudest voices against efforts to fight climate change. He said the climate movement around the world is “collapsing under its own weight.” The Energy Department is responsible for advancing energy, environmental and nuclear security of the United States. Wright also won support from influential conservatives, including oil and gas tycoon Harold Hamm. Hamm, executive chairman of Oklahoma-based Continental Resources, a major shale oil company, is a longtime Trump supporter and adviser who played a key role on energy issues in Trump’s first term. President-elect Donald Trump tapped billionaire professional wrestling mogul Linda McMahon to be secretary of the Education Department, tasked with overseeing an agency Trump promised to dismantle. McMahon led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s initial term from 2017 to 2019 and twice ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for the U.S. Senate in Connecticut. She’s seen as a relative unknown in education circles, though she expressed support for charter schools and school choice. She served on the Connecticut Board of Education for a year starting in 2009 and has spent years on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut. Brooke Rollins, who graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in agricultural development, is a longtime Trump associate who served as White House domestic policy chief during his first presidency. The 52-year-old is president and CEO of the America First Policy Institute, a group helping to lay the groundwork for a second Trump administration. She previously served as an aide to former Texas Gov. Rick Perry and ran a think tank, the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Trump chose Howard Lutnick, head of brokerage and investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, as his nominee for commerce secretary, a position in which he'd have a key role in carrying out Trump's plans to raise and enforce tariffs. Trump made the announcement Tuesday on his social media platform, Truth Social. Lutnick is a co-chair of Trump’s transition team, along with Linda McMahon, the former wrestling executive who previously led Trump’s Small Business Administration. Both are tasked with putting forward candidates for key roles in the next administration. The nomination would put Lutnick in charge of a sprawling Cabinet agency that is involved in funding new computer chip factories, imposing trade restrictions, releasing economic data and monitoring the weather. It is also a position in which connections to CEOs and the wider business community are crucial. Doug Collins is a former Republican congressman from Georgia who gained recognition for defending Trump during his first impeachment trial, which centered on U.S. assistance for Ukraine. Trump was impeached for urging Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden in 2019 during the Democratic presidential nomination, but he was acquitted by the Senate. Collins has also served in the armed forces himself and is currently a chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserve Command. "We must take care of our brave men and women in uniform, and Doug will be a great advocate for our Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Families to ensure they have the support they need," Trump said in a statement about nominating Collins to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs. Karoline Leavitt, 27, was Trump's campaign press secretary and currently a spokesperson for his transition. She would be the youngest White House press secretary in history. The White House press secretary typically serves as the public face of the administration and historically has held daily briefings for the press corps. Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, was a spokesperson for MAGA Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, before joining his 2024 campaign. In 2022, she ran for Congress in New Hampshire, winning a 10-way Republican primary before losing to Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas. Leavitt worked in the White House press office during Trump's first term before she became communications director for New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, Trump's choice for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has been tapped by Trump to be director of national intelligence, keeping with the trend to stock his Cabinet with loyal personalities rather than veteran professionals in their requisite fields. Gabbard, 43, was a Democratic House member who unsuccessfully sought the party's 2020 presidential nomination before leaving the party in 2022. She endorsed Trump in August and campaigned often with him this fall. “I know Tulsi will bring the fearless spirit that has defined her illustrious career to our Intelligence Community,” Trump said in a statement. Gabbard, who has served in the Army National Guard for more than two decades, deploying to Iraq and Kuwait, would come to the role as somewhat of an outsider compared to her predecessor. The current director, Avril Haines, was confirmed by the Senate in 2021 following several years in a number of top national security and intelligence positions. Trump has picked John Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman who served as director of national intelligence during his first administration, to be director of the Central Intelligence Agency in his next. Ratcliffe was director of national intelligence during the final year and a half of Trump's first term, leading the U.S. government's spy agencies during the coronavirus pandemic. “I look forward to John being the first person ever to serve in both of our Nation's highest Intelligence positions,” Trump said in a statement, calling him a “fearless fighter for the Constitutional Rights of all Americans” who would ensure “the Highest Levels of National Security, and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” Kash Patel spent several years as a Justice Department prosecutor before catching the Trump administration’s attention as a staffer on Capitol Hill who helped investigate the Russia probe. Patel called for dramatically reducing the agency’s footprint, a perspective that sets him apart from earlier directors who sought additional resources for the bureau. Though the Justice Department in 2021 halted the practice of secretly seizing reporters’ phone records during leak investigations, Patel said he intends to aggressively hunt down government officials who leak information to reporters. Trump has chosen former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin to serve as his pick to lead the Environmental Protection Agency . Zeldin does not appear to have any experience in environmental issues, but is a longtime supporter of the former president. The 44-year-old former U.S. House member from New York wrote on X , “We will restore US energy dominance, revitalize our auto industry to bring back American jobs, and make the US the global leader of AI.” “We will do so while protecting access to clean air and water,” he added. During his campaign, Trump often attacked the Biden administration's promotion of electric vehicles, and incorrectly referring to a tax credit for EV purchases as a government mandate. Trump also often told his audiences during the campaign his administration would “Drill, baby, drill,” referring to his support for expanded petroleum exploration. In a statement, Trump said Zeldin “will ensure fair and swift deregulatory decisions that will be enacted in a way to unleash the power of American businesses, while at the same time maintaining the highest environmental standards, including the cleanest air and water on the planet.” Trump has named Brendan Carr, the senior Republican on the Federal Communications Commission, as the new chairman of the agency tasked with regulating broadcasting, telecommunications and broadband. Carr is a longtime member of the commission and served previously as the FCC’s general counsel. He has been unanimously confirmed by the Senate three times and was nominated by both Trump and President Joe Biden to the commission. Carr made past appearances on “Fox News Channel," including when he decried Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris' pre-Election Day appearance on “Saturday Night Live.” He wrote an op-ed last month defending a satellite company owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk. Trump said Atkins, the CEO of Patomak Partners and a former SEC commissioner, was a “proven leader for common sense regulations.” In the years since leaving the SEC, Atkins has made the case against too much market regulation. “He believes in the promise of robust, innovative capital markets that are responsive to the needs of Investors, & that provide capital to make our Economy the best in the World. He also recognizes that digital assets & other innovations are crucial to Making America Greater than Ever Before,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. The commission oversees U.S. securities markets and investments and is currently led by Gary Gensler, who has been leading the U.S. government’s crackdown on the crypto industry. Gensler, who was nominated by President Joe Biden, announced last month that he would be stepping down from his post on the day that Trump is inaugurated — Jan. 20, 2025. Atkins began his career as a lawyer and has a long history working in the financial markets sector, both in government and private practice. In the 1990s, he worked on the staffs of two former SEC chairmen, Richard C. Breeden and Arthur Levitt. Jared Isaacman, 41, is a tech billionaire who bought a series of spaceflights from Elon Musk’s SpaceX and conducted the first private spacewalk . He is the founder and CEO of a card-processing company and has collaborated closely with Musk ever since buying his first chartered SpaceX flight. He took contest winners on that 2021 trip and followed it in September with a mission where he briefly popped out the hatch to test SpaceX’s new spacewalking suits. Rep. Elise Stefanik is a representative from New York and one of Trump's staunchest defenders going back to his first impeachment. Elected to the House in 2014, Stefanik was selected by her GOP House colleagues as House Republican Conference chair in 2021, when former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney was removed from the post after publicly criticizing Trump for falsely claiming he won the 2020 election. Stefanik, 40, has served in that role ever since as the third-ranking member of House leadership. Stefanik’s questioning of university presidents over antisemitism on their campuses helped lead to two of those presidents resigning, further raising her national profile. If confirmed, she would represent American interests at the U.N. as Trump vows to end the war waged by Russia against Ukraine begun in 2022. He has also called for peace as Israel continues its offensive against Hamas in Gaza and its invasion of Lebanon to target Hezbollah. President-elect Donald Trump says he's chosen former acting Attorney General Matt Whitaker to serve as U.S. ambassador to NATO. Trump has expressed skepticism about the Western military alliance for years. Trump said in a statement Wednesday that Whitaker is “a strong warrior and loyal Patriot” who “will ensure the United States’ interests are advanced and defended” and “strengthen relationships with our NATO Allies, and stand firm in the face of threats to Peace and Stability.” The choice of Whitaker as the nation’s representative to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is an unusual one, given his background is as a lawyer and not in foreign policy. President-elect Donald Trump tapped former Sen. David Perdue of Georgia to be ambassador to China, saying in a social media post that the former CEO “brings valuable expertise to help build our relationship with China.” Perdue lost his Senate seat to Democrat Jon Ossoff four years ago and ran unsuccessfully in a primary against Republican Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp. Perdue pushed Trump's debunked lies about electoral fraud during his failed bid for governor. Trump will nominate former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to be ambassador to Israel. Huckabee is a staunch defender of Israel and his intended nomination comes as Trump has promised to align U.S. foreign policy more closely with Israel's interests as it wages wars against the Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah. “He loves Israel, and likewise the people of Israel love him,” Trump said in a statement. “Mike will work tirelessly to bring about peace in the Middle East.” Huckabee, who ran unsuccessfully for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 and 2016, has been a popular figure among evangelical Christian conservatives, many of whom support Israel due to Old Testament writings that Jews are God’s chosen people and that Israel is their rightful homeland. Trump has been praised by some in this important Republican voting bloc for moving the U.S. embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Trump on Tuesday named real estate investor Steven Witkoff to be special envoy to the Middle East. The 67-year-old Witkoff is the president-elect's golf partner and was golfing with him at Trump's club in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Sept. 15, when the former president was the target of a second attempted assassination. Witkoff “is a Highly Respected Leader in Business and Philanthropy,” Trump said of Witkoff in a statement. “Steve will be an unrelenting Voice for PEACE, and make us all proud." Trump also named Witkoff co-chair, with former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, of his inaugural committee. Trump said Wednesday that he will nominate Gen. Keith Kellogg to serve as assistant to the president and special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, a retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump’s top adviser on defense issues, served as National Security Advisor to Trump's former Vice President Mike Pence. For the America First Policy Institute, one of several groups formed after Trump left office to help lay the groundwork for the next Republican administration, Kellogg in April wrote that “bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties.” (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib) Trump asked Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla., a retired Army National Guard officer and war veteran, to be his national security adviser, Trump announced in a statement Tuesday. The move puts Waltz in the middle of national security crises, ranging from efforts to provide weapons to Ukraine and worries about the growing alliance between Russia and North Korea to the persistent attacks in the Middle East by Iran proxies and the push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas and Hezbollah. “Mike has been a strong champion of my America First Foreign Policy agenda,” Trump's statement said, "and will be a tremendous champion of our pursuit of Peace through Strength!” Waltz is a three-term GOP congressman from east-central Florida. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and also worked in the Pentagon as a policy adviser when Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates were defense chiefs. He is considered hawkish on China, and called for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing due to its involvement in the origin of COVID-19 and its mistreatment of the minority Muslim Uighur population. Stephen Miller, an immigration hardliner , was a vocal spokesperson during the presidential campaign for Trump's priority of mass deportations. The 39-year-old was a senior adviser during Trump's first administration. Miller has been a central figure in some of Trump's policy decisions, notably his move to separate thousands of immigrant families. Trump argued throughout the campaign that the nation's economic, national security and social priorities could be met by deporting people who are in the United States illegally. Since Trump left office in 2021, Miller has served as the president of America First Legal, an organization made up of former Trump advisers aimed at challenging the Biden administration, media companies, universities and others over issues such as free speech and national security. Thomas Homan, 62, has been tasked with Trump’s top priority of carrying out the largest deportation operation in the nation’s history. Homan, who served under Trump in his first administration leading U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was widely expected to be offered a position related to the border, an issue Trump made central to his campaign. Though Homan has insisted such a massive undertaking would be humane, he has long been a loyal supporter of Trump's policy proposals, suggesting at a July conference in Washington that he would be willing to "run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen.” Democrats have criticized Homan for his defending Trump's “zero tolerance” policy on border crossings during his first administration, which led to the separation of thousands of parents and children seeking asylum at the border. Customs and Border Protection, with its roughly 60,000 employees, falls under the Department of Homeland Security. It includes the Border Patrol, which Rodney Scott led during Trump's first term, and is essentially responsible for protecting the country's borders while facilitating trade and travel. Scott comes to the job firmly from the Border Patrol side of the house. He became an agent in 1992 and spent much of his career in San Diego. When he was appointed head of the border agency in January 2020, he enthusiastically embraced Trump's policies. After being forced out under the Biden administration, Scott has been a vocal supporter of Trump's hard-line immigration agenda. He appeared frequently on Fox News and testified in Congress. He's also a senior fellow at the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Former Rep. Billy Long represented Missouri in the U.S. House from 2011 to 2023. Since leaving Congress, Trump said, Long “has worked as a Business and Tax advisor, helping Small Businesses navigate the complexities of complying with the IRS Rules and Regulations.” Former Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler was appointed in January 2020 by Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and then lost a runoff election a year later. She started a conservative voter registration organization and dived into GOP fundraising, becoming one of the top individual donors and bundlers to Trump’s 2024 comeback campaign. Even before nominating her for agriculture secretary, the president-elect already had tapped Loeffler as co-chair of his inaugural committee. Dr. Mehmet Oz, 64, is a former heart surgeon who hosted “The Dr. Oz Show,” a long-running daytime television talk show. He ran unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate as the Republican nominee in 2022 and is an outspoken supporter of Trump, who endorsed Oz's bid for elected office. Elon Musk, left, and Vivek Ramaswamy speak before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at an Oct. 27 campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. Trump on Tuesday said Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Ramaswamy will lead a new “Department of Government Efficiency" — which is not, despite the name, a government agency. The acronym “DOGE” is a nod to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency, dogecoin. Trump said Musk and Ramaswamy will work from outside the government to offer the White House “advice and guidance” and will partner with the Office of Management and Budget to “drive large scale structural reform, and create an entrepreneurial approach to Government never seen before.” He added the move would shock government systems. It's not clear how the organization will operate. Musk, owner of X and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Trump won the presidential election. Ramaswamy suspended his campaign in January and threw his support behind Trump. Trump said the two will “pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies.” Russell Vought held the position during Trump’s first presidency. After Trump’s initial term ended, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a think tank that describes its mission as “renew a consensus of America as a nation under God.” Vought was closely involved with Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump’s second term that he tried to distance himself from during the campaign. Vought has also previously worked as the executive and budget director for the Republican Study Committee, a caucus for conservative House Republicans. He also worked at Heritage Action, the political group tied to The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank. Dan Scavino, deputy chief of staff Scavino, whom Trump's transition referred to in a statement as one of “Trump's longest serving and most trusted aides,” was a senior adviser to Trump's 2024 campaign, as well as his 2016 and 2020 campaigns. He will be deputy chief of staff and assistant to the president. Scavino had run Trump's social media profile in the White House during his first administration. He was also held in contempt of Congress in 2022 after a month-long refusal to comply with a subpoena from the House committee’s investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. James Blair, deputy chief of staff Blair was political director for Trump's 2024 campaign and for the Republican National Committee. He will be deputy chief of staff for legislative, political and public affairs and assistant to the president. Blair was key to Trump's economic messaging during his winning White House comeback campaign this year, a driving force behind the candidate's “Trump can fix it” slogan and his query to audiences this fall if they were better off than four years ago. Taylor Budowich, deputy chief of staff Budowich is a veteran Trump campaign aide who launched and directed Make America Great Again, Inc., a super PAC that supported Trump's 2024 campaign. He will be deputy chief of staff for communications and personnel and assistant to the president. Budowich also had served as a spokesman for Trump after his presidency. Jay Bhattacharya, National Institutes of Health Trump has chosen Dr. Jay Bhattacharya to lead the National Institutes of Health. Bhattacharya is a physician and professor at Stanford University School of Medicine, and is a critic of pandemic lockdowns and vaccine mandates. He promoted the idea of herd immunity during the pandemic, arguing that people at low risk should live normally while building up immunity to COVID-19 through infection. The National Institutes of Health funds medical research through competitive grants to researchers at institutions throughout the nation. NIH also conducts its own research with thousands of scientists working at its labs in Bethesda, Maryland. Dr. Marty Makary, Food and Drug Administration Makary is a Johns Hopkins surgeon and author who argued against pandemic lockdowns. He routinely appeared on Fox News during the COVID-19 pandemic and wrote opinion articles questioning masks for children. He cast doubt on vaccine mandates but supported vaccines generally. Makary also cast doubt on whether booster shots worked, which was against federal recommendations on the vaccine. Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, Surgeon General Nesheiwat is a general practitioner who serves as medical director for CityMD, a network of urgent care centers in New York and New Jersey. She has been a contributor to Fox News. Dr. Dave Weldon, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Weldon is a former Florida congressman who recently ran for a Florida state legislative seat and lost; Trump backed Weldon’s opponent. In Congress, Weldon weighed in on one of the nation’s most heated debates of the 1990s over quality of life and a right-to-die and whether Terri Schiavo, who was in a persistent vegetative state after cardiac arrest, should have been allowed to have her feeding tube removed. He sided with the parents who did not want it removed. Jamieson Greer, U.S. trade representative Kevin Hassett, Director of the White House National Economic Council Trump is turning to two officials with experience navigating not only Washington but the key issues of income taxes and tariffs as he fills out his economic team. He announced he has chosen international trade attorney Jamieson Greer to be his U.S. trade representative and Kevin Hassett as director of the White House National Economic Council. While Trump has in several cases nominated outsiders to key posts, these picks reflect a recognition that his reputation will likely hinge on restoring the public’s confidence in the economy. Trump said in a statement that Greer was instrumental in his first term in imposing tariffs on China and others and replacing the trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, “therefore making it much better for American Workers.” Hassett, 62, served in the first Trump term as chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers. He has a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania and worked at the right-leaning American Enterprise Institute before joining the Trump White House in 2017. Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.Forget Pilbara Minerals shares and buy this ASX 200 mining stock - The Motley Fool Australia

Syrian rebels have claimed victory over the Assad regime and taken the capital of Damascus, bringing an end to Bashar al-Assad’s more than two decade rule. What we know: After the military command of the Syrian opposition launched a surprise offensive in Aleppo just a week ago, the rebels over the weekend took control of the key city of Homs and the capital of Damascus ( Reuters ); According to Reuters , Syria’s army command told its officers on Sunday that the Assad government had been toppled and the dictator had fled to an unknown location; The rebel group in a statement claimed that Damascus was free of Assad’s rule, bringing an end to the “dark period and the beginning of a new era in Syria” ( The Age ); Russia confirmed that Assad had left office and fled the country, with a spokesperson for the foreign ministry saying he had given orders for a peaceful handover of power ( The Guardian ); It brings an end to the reign of the Assad family, which ruled over Syria for more than 50 years, while Bashar al-Assad had been in power since 2000; In a televised statement on Sunday afternoon, the Syrian rebels said they had released all the people being held at the large military prison on the outskirts of Damascus ( ABC ); The Syrian civil war has been raging for 13 years, with about 600,000 people killed and 12 million displaced, about half of the country’s population ( The Saturday Paper ); Assad’s family reportedly fled to Russia earlier on the weekend, but the Kremlin has since said that Moscow does not plan to assist the leader ( The Australian ); The Assad regime received little help from its key allies to repel the rebels, with Russia focused on its ongoing war with Ukraine and Hezbollah weakened by its conflict with Israel; UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres overnight praised the end of Syria’s “dictatorial regime” and said that “today the people of Syria can seize an historic opportunity to build a stable and peaceful future” ( Reuters ). Australia’s national science agency has rejected Peter Dutton’s claims that nuclear power is cheaper than renewable energy due to its operating life, with the Opposition Leader expected to reveal costings for the Coalition’s plan this week. What we know: CSIRO has today released its draft GenCost report, an annual assessment of electricity prices, which backs in its previous findings that nuclear energy is too slow to be implemented and too costly ( AFR ); The Coalition has previously railed against these claims and said that nuclear power plants could be established in Australia in less than 15 years, and that their longer operating life makes them cheaper; The CSIRO analysis , conducted with the Australian Energy Market Operator, rejected these claims; CSIRO chief energy economist and report lead Paul Graham said that the longer lifetime of nuclear energy gave it “no unique cost advantage” due to the substantial re-investment costs across this time, and that “similar cost savings can be achieved with shorter-lived technologies, including renewables ( The Guardian ); Dutton is expected to this week reveal costings of the Coalition’s plan to build seven nuclear reactors around Australia, with an aim for the first to come online in 2035 or 2037 ( The Saturday Paper ); The CSIRO report claimed that a nuclear reactor would not be able to produce any energy in Australia until at least 2040, and that it would cost between $145 and $238 per unit of generation, well above the price of firmed renewables; The report found the cost of electricity from a grid dominated by renewable energy with firming support in 2030 would be at least 50% and up to 300% cheaper than nuclear energy; It said the cost of building a 1000 megawatt nuclear plant in Australia for the first time would be up to $18bn; Following similar findings earlier this year, opposition energy spokesperson Ted O’Brien met with CSIRO and asked it to redo its modelling with key assumptions changed ( SMH ). The latest draft report has accommodated these changes and still found nuclear power to be far more expensive than “variable renewables” such as wind and solar power backed up with batteries and a transmission-line rollout. Victoria Police and the AFP will meet in Melbourne today to determine whether the firebombing of a synagogue on Friday was an act of terrorism, with the leaders of the two major parties both saying they believe it was ( The Age ). Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday said he believed that the attack on the Adass Israel synagogue in Ripponlea was an act of terrorism ( ABC ). “If you want my personal view , quite clearly terrorism is something that is aimed at creating fear in the community and the atrocities that occurred at the synagogue in Melbourne clearly were designed to create fear in the community and, therefore, from my personal perspective, certainly fulfil that definition of terrorism,” Albanese said. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton earlier described it as a “national disgrace” and an “act of terrorism”, and blamed the federal government for its “grotesque stance” on the Israel-Palestine conflict ( The Australian ). In a social media post over the weekend, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directly linked the attack to Australia's voting record on the Gaza conflict at the UN. The federal government on Sunday announced a further $32.5m over 18 months as part of a new round of funding for Jewish communities, aiming to combat the rise in anti-Semitic incidents ( The Conversation ). The number of Australians becoming homeless has increased by more than 20% in the last three years, with a sharp increase in employed people accessing support services, according to a new report ( The Guardian ). The report by UNSW and Homelessness Australia found that an additional 10,000 Australians are becoming homeless every month, with about half of these people sleeping rough and the rest couch surfing or living in short-term accommodation. There has been a major increase in the number of people with jobs accessing homelessness services, up from 10.9% to 15.3% or 33,000, over the five years to 2022-23 ( Canberra Times ). UNSW Professor of Housing Research and report lead Hal Pawson said that the increase was largely driven by the increase in rent prices and that “rental affordability stress has deepened to such a degree that more people are being forced into situations of severe instability and rough sleeping” ( news.com.au ). Homelessness Australia chief Kate Colvin said that support services are “buckling” under pressure and that the new statistics need to be a “wake-up call for action”. South Korea’s former defence minister has been arrested over his role in the brief declaration of martial law in the country last week ( Reuters ). Prosecutors said that Kim Yong-hyun, who stepped down as defence minister last week following the rescinding of martial law, was arrested on Sunday, with reports he directly proposed martial law to President Yoon Suk Yeol. Yoon survived an attempt to impeach him in parliament on Saturday, but the leader of his party said that he would need to step down eventually ( The Guardian ). Members of the president’s party boycotted the impeachment attempt, with not enough votes cast for it to be counted ( SBS ). It comes after South Korea’s three minority opposition parties filed a complaint with the prosecution against the president, ex-defence minister and the martial law commander, accusing them of treason. Yoon imposed martial law in an unscheduled televised address late on Tuesday night last week, but the order was rescinded by the National Assembly just hours later ( The Saturday Paper ). Insiders have told The Saturday Paper that party members are not happy about the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's treatment of Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek when he overturned a deal on strengthened environmental laws that was struck with concessions from the Greens ( The Saturday Paper ). The creator of Raygun: The Musical, comedian Steph Broadbridge, confirmed on social media the show had been cancelled after receiving notice from lawyers, adding, “We will be back soon and with a whole new story arc to add" ( The Guardian ).The world according to Jim: • Sad to say, but the evidence is mounting that the traditional bowl game, historically considered an end-of-season reward for all of the toil that college football players put in during the year, might be reaching its expiration date. Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin may have been the loudest voice, willing to call out the current procedure as a “dumb system,” but I’d guarantee he wasn’t and isn’t the only coach complaining about the perfect storm of the early signing period and opening of the transfer portal coming right on the heels of the end of the sport’s regular season and right before the bowls. Or maybe we should just refer to them as “non-playoff games,” as differentiated from those games, beginning this weekend, that really have something at stake. ... • The main impact, of course, is that players intending to transfer – as well as those who are already thinking about their NFL draft status – are more inclined to skip the bowl game. Really, since the choice exists and their futures are at stake here, can you blame them? ... • But the issue really came into stark relief this past week. Marshall, scheduled to face Army in the Independence Bowl – um, actually the “Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl” – pulled out because it ran out of players. Marshall head coach Charles Huff, who was in the final year of his contract, took the Southern Mississippi job, and more than 20 players immediately hit the portal. (For those familiar with the school’s nickname, this was a different sort of Thundering Herd.) Could the Radiance Techologies people, whoever they are, have come up with enough NIL money to convince those players to stay just one more game? We’ll never know. Instead, Louisiana Tech – a 5-7 team during the regular season, but conveniently located an hour’s drive from the game site in Shreveport – took Marshall’s place. ... • This reminds us of the 2021 Holiday Bowl at Petco Park. UCLA was scheduled to play North Carolina State, but a little more than five hours before kickoff the Bruins had to bow out because a COVID-19 outbreak depleted their defensive line. • As it turned out, four other bowl games that year were canceled and two others had to replace teams that pulled out, in the days of the Omicron variant. That was unforeseen, although by then we were deep enough into the pandemic that it shouldn’t have been a total surprise. (And the portal, first instituted in 2018, was just beginning to turn college football into a form of mass free agency.) The date that the portal opens now practically invites bowl opt-outs, so this should be not at all surprising. Indeed, it’s another example of how the leadership void at the top of college sports has turned the whole enterprise, and especially football, into one big squirrel derby. ... • That description, incidentally, came from a football guy: Gene Murphy, the late Cal State Fullerton (and later Fullerton JC) coach who had, shall we say, a distinctive way with the language. The definition of squirrel derby: Utter chaos. ... • Can we blame Christian McCaffrey and Leonard Fournette for this trend? Both skipped bowl games at the end of 2016 to prepare for the NFL draft (and to avoid the risk of an injury that could send them spiraling on draft lists). Stanford’s McCaffrey skipped the Sun Bowl and LSU’s Fournette the Citrus Bowl. It was an outlier then but wouldn’t be for long. ... • So what happens the first time a player on one of the playoff teams decides to opt out? The suspicion here: He certainly wouldn’t be helping his draft status. ... • Along those same lines, would anyone else in the NFL dare take a chance on soon to be former 49ers linebacker De’Vondre Campbell now? As you might expect, after Campbell declined to play in the second half last week against the Rams, and then walked to the locker room during the fourth quarter, the club suspended him for the rest of the regular season and cleared out his locker. Whatever the player’s reasons, if you’re a coach or a personnel guy would you even think of signing someone who walked out on his previous team in such an egregious fashion? Opting out is one thing. Flat out quitting is another. ... • We are now approaching the third anniversary of the schoolyard 3-pointer seen around the world, the half-court (or so) shot that third-grade teacher and former college player Kathleen Fitzpatrick (aka Ms. Fitz) sank, earning her entire class at Holy Trininty School in Georgetown hot chocolate. That clip never gets old. ... • What seems less relevant, NBA fans? The NBA Cup final, or the league’s attempt to reinvent an All-Star Game that has become increasingly unwatchable? ... • Reminder: From the moment the banner celebrating the “in-season tournament” championship went up on the wall at the Arena Formerly Known As Staples Center a year ago, the Lakers lost 11 of their next 15. So when the Milwaukee Bucks talk about using this year’s mini-title as an impetus toward a real one in June, take it for what it’s worth (i.e., not much). ... • If they need a reminder, Darvin Ham – Lakers head coach then, Bucks assistant now – can provide it. Related Articles College Sports | Alexander: Chargers’ playoff hopes dwindle as margin for error shrinks College Sports | Alexander: Melissa Ludtke recalls her battle for access College Sports | Alexander: Golden at-bat? It would only tarnish baseball College Sports | Alexander: Trojans’ season filled with valuable lessons College Sports | Alexander: Kings goalie Erik Portillo can be proud after dazzling NHL debut Ham’s Lakers had the same record through 27 games last season, 15-12, that JJ Redick’s team has at the same point this year. Last year’s team finished 47-35 with a roster full of play-in level players beyond LeBron James and Anthony Davis, and there’s not that much difference in talent level this year. In an interview with Andscape Ham noted, “Anywhere else I’m probably looking at an extension with what I did.” He’s not wrong, and that’s the savage part of Laker Exceptionalism. ... • Their best plan right now? Try to work a couple more of those weeks off for LeBron into the middle of the schedule. The most recent one seemed to have the desired effect. The goal has to be to make sure he’s at his best by playoff time, and if that means running afoul of the league’s load management standards, so be it. jalexander@scng.com

Orchid Medical Centre: The Hub for Top Neurosurgeons in Ranchi 12-27-2024 07:04 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: Getnews / PR Agency: Content Hum Image: https://www.globalnewslines.com/uploads/2024/12/1735282170.jpg Orchid Medical Centre now opens doors for new patients for advanced neurological care in Ranchi Orchid Medical Centre is making strides toward excellence with a team of leading neurologists and neurosurgeons in Ranchi. Orchid Medical Centre offers a state-of-the-art neurology and neurosurgery department equipped with advanced technology and world-class surgical facilities. The centre is backed by esteemed neurologists and neurosurgeons with expertise in advanced complicated conditions, providing comprehensive care tailored to every patient and is therefore sure to treat virtually all advanced complicated neurological conditions, providing world-class treatment to the entire region. Orchid Medical Centre prides itself on being a premier healthcare institution in the capital city. The centre has access to top-tier neurological care in the capital. The expert team of neurosurgeons and neurologists is well-versed in offering state-of-the-art treatments and diagnoses for most of the enormous spectrum of neurological disorders. The neurologists andneurosurgeons at Orchid Medical Centre are experts in providing diagnoses and treatment for complex conditions of the brain, spine, and nervous system. The neurosurgeon in Ranchi [ https://www.orchidmedcentre.com/doctors/doctors_detail/dr-vikram-singh ] not only has years of experience but also state-of-the-art advances in medical technology and the best equipment to help with patient outcomes. The neurology department at Orchid Medical Centre is equipped with advanced medical diagnostic technology and effective treatment options to enhance the accuracy and efficacy of diagnoses and treatments. A spokesperson for Orchid Medical Centre stated, "We now provide an innovative and quality approach to neurology and neurosurgery, letting our services speak to global standards for the city of Ranchi. Our mission is to bring about the transformation of healthcare in Ranchi through advanced medical solutions with empathy and professionalism. Orchid Medical Centre welcomes you to great neurological care and toward a better and healthier future. At Orchid Medical Centre, we care about the patient. The neurology and neurosurgery team works directly with the patient and family to communicate and personalise a treatment plan." The increase in lifestyle changes, an increase in the elderly population, and more awareness among all the people about brain and nerve-related disorders have increased the number of neurological diseases. So far, most of the patients from Ranchi had to travel to some metropolitan cities for very advanced neurological treatments. However, Orchid Medical Centre has some of the top neurologist in Ranchi [ https://www.orchidmedcentre.com/department/neurology ] to offer top-notch treatments. Residents of Ranchi and nearby areas can now receive expert care from world-class neurologists and neurosurgeons at Orchid Medical Centre. Some of the major services provided include diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders, advanced neurosurgical procedures, paediatric neurology and neurosurgery, and neuro-rehabilitation. Combining established medical technologies with compassion, it's a promise that the team makes that they are here to offer unmatched care within Orchid Medical Centre. The neurology and neurosurgery department is meant to be everything for patients and their families. Media Contact Company Name: Orchid Medical Centre Email: Send Email [ http://www.universalpressrelease.com/?pr=orchid-medical-centre-the-hub-for-top-neurosurgeons-in-ranchi ] Phone: 9117100100 Address:H.B. Road City: Ranchi State: Jharkhand-834001 Country: India Website: https://www.orchidmedcentre.com/ This release was published on openPR.US confirms billions in chips funds to Samsung, Texas InstrumentsBritish government officials have held two high-level, secret security meetings in the wake of mysterious drone activity over American air bases in England. That has led Borough President Vito Fossella to slam U.S. officials for their lack of transparency over drone activity in the United States. “What are we waiting for?” the borough president said in a prepared statement. The Times of London reported that two secret meetings of the Civil Contingencies Committee have been held by top U.K. officials after mystery drones buzzed American air bases in England. Concerns were heightened because the drones had technology so sophisticated that authorities have been unable to track them or identify those responsible, the Times said. Military officials have not ruled out the involvement of a hostile state but have expressed alarm that it has so far proved impossible to find the pilots responsible for controlling the drones. It was said that the drones were not programmed but were controlled in real time by live operators. Also known as COBRA or COBR, the meetings are convened to handle matters of national emergency or major disruption. Its purpose is to coordinate different departments and agencies in response to such emergencies. The meetings are held in the Cabinet Office Briefing Room in London and include top officials, including sometimes the British prime minister. “Our concern, from day one, has been the lack of transparency and clear understanding of these vast drone sightings,” Fossella said. “There were reports that even President Biden made attempts to determine what they were, and those attempts resulted in no credible information.” Said Fossella, “Each time our concerns are raised, we are told there is no public safety risk, even as our closest ally in Europe assesses the possibility that these drones may be operated by a foreign adversary.” He said, “If the United Kingdom can take this concern of public safety seriously, so can we. The federal government needs to do the right thing, sooner than later, and give the American public the answers they deserve.” The U.S. drone sightings were first reported in New Jersey five weeks ago and have spread to other parts of the country, including Staten Island and military bases across the U.S. Mystery drones have also been spotted over a U.S. military base in Germany. The Federal Aviation Administration has banned drones over certain areas of the country, including Staten Island, and has warned that deadly force could be used against operators who break the ban. Most Popular Stories by Tom Wrobleski

Global rating agency, Moody’s yesterday upgraded the Government of Sri Lanka’s Long-Term Foreign Currency Issuer Rating to Caa1 from Ca. The outlook is stable. Previously, the rating was on review for upgrade. It said the decision to upgrade the issuer rating to Caa1 is driven by the conclusion of the restructuring of Sri Lanka’s international bonds held by private sector creditors, which reduces the default risk on new and future issuances. At Caa1, Moody’s noted that Sri Lanka’s credit profile reflects the reduction in external vulnerability and Government liquidity risk and prospects for fiscal and debt sustainability from a weak starting point, which are underpinned by ongoing reforms under the Government’s programs with development partners including the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Willingness and capacity to implement reforms speak to Sri Lanka’s governance and also underpin the rating action. However, these credit supports are balanced against still weak debt affordability and a high debt burden compared to peers, which limit the Government’s fiscal flexibility and capacity to address underlying social challenges. Moody’s said the stable outlook reflects balanced risks to the ratings. On the upside, it noted the Government’s commitment to and continued implementation of reforms may strengthen its credit profile beyond current assumptions, to a level consistent with a higher rating. On the downside, the rating agency opined the still narrow Government revenue base and limited fiscal space, combined with the reliance on external financing, pose asymmetric risks to the credit profile should the global macroeconomic environment become less supportive for a sustained economic recovery and further reform implementation. “This rating action concludes the review that we initiated on 28 November 2024. Concurrently, we have assigned definitive Caa1 foreign currency senior unsecured ratings to Sri Lanka’s new USD-denominated issuances, specifically Macro-Linked Bonds (MLBs), the Governance-Linked Bond (GLB), as well as the step-up and Past-Due Interest (PDI) Bonds, from provisional (P)Caa1 ratings. We have also withdrawn the Ca foreign currency senior unsecured rating on Sri Lanka’s July 2022 Bond, of which $ 268 million remains outstanding after the settlement of Bonds in the Government’s exchange offer, for business reasons,” it added. Moody’s... Sri Lanka’s local and foreign currency country ceilings have been raised to B1 from Caa1 and B3 from Ca, respectively. The three-notch gap between the local currency ceiling and the sovereign rating balances a contained Government footprint, against still relatively limited but increasing foreign exchange buffers that confer macroeconomic risks, as well as a challenging domestic political and policymaking environment due to underlying social pressures. The two-notch gap between the foreign currency ceiling and local currency ceiling takes into consideration the high level of external indebtedness, although the rebuilding of foreign exchange buffers is reducing the risk of transfer and convertibility restrictions.

By DIDI TANG The Associated Press — The economic and technological rivalry between the United States and China has come to the drone market , where Chinese-made flying devices are a dominant player. Lawmakers in Washington are seeking to ban new sales of drones from two dominant Chinese manufacturers, arguing they could be used to spy on Americans and that the low-cost models are hurting the U.S. drone industry. A defense bill that passed Congress last week would bar new Chinese drones from DJI Technology and Autel Robotics should a review find them to pose an “unacceptable” risk to U.S. national security. But American users, from police officers to farmers, mappers and filmmakers, have come to rely on Chinese-made drones, especially those by DJI. Here are things to know about the debate. Lawmakers say the drones pose a national security threat Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., who is President-elect Donald Trump’s pick to be U.N. ambassador, has led House efforts to ban new Chinese drones, saying Americans have become too dependent on them. “It is strategically irresponsible to allow Communist China to be our drone factory,” she argued. It was the role of drones in everyday life that drove Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., to get Congress to restrict the purchase of Chinese drones by federal agencies. Those restrictions were included in a bill that Democratic President Joe Biden signed last year. Scott has compared Chinese drones to spy balloons that could “gather data or carry harmful payloads” across America, posing risks to military bases, critical infrastructure and natural resources. Drones made by DJI dominate the US market DJI, named in the bill, is the best-known Chinese drone brand. The company has the lion’s share of the global drone market and is a dominant player in the U.S. market. Its drones have been used by first responders to locate disaster victims, mappers to survey roads and utility lines, mosquito control officers to reach swarms of larvae, and filmmakers to capture aerial footage. Founded in 2006 and based in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen, DJI makes devices that are known for their affordability and high performance. They are even used on the battlefield in Ukraine by both sides, even though DJI does not make military drones. As U.S.-China relations soured, DJI drones have come under scrutiny. The U.S. government has put the company on several blacklists citing human rights concerns as well as alleged links to the Chinese military. DJI has denied any wrongdoing, and is suing the Pentagon over the designation that it is a Chinese military company. U.S. customs officials have also blocked some DJI shipments over concerns that the products might have been made with forced labor. DJI has called it “a customs-related misunderstanding.” DJI has also expressed concern about the review of Chinese drones included in the defense bill., saying it doesn’t allow the company to defend itself. It called for “a fair right of reply to any findings.” Users say Chinese drones can’t be easily replaced At the Interior Department, the ban on foreign-made drones has resulted in a “loss of opportunities to collect data on landscape, natural and cultural resources, wildlife and infrastructure,” according to a September report by the Government Accountability Office. Michael Robbins, president and chief executive officer of AUVSI, an advocacy group for unmanned vehicles such as drones, argues against an immediate ban. Instead, the group has urged the government to support the domestic drone-making industry through investment so it can catch up with its Chinese competitors in both capability and cost. Related Articles Business | Drones, planes or UFOs? Americans abuzz over mysterious New Jersey sightings Business | Lancaster man used drone to deliver fentanyl, other drugs — one user died, prosecutors say

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Trump says he can't guarantee tariffs won't raise prices, won't rule out revenge prosecutionsPresident of fractious teachers union pulling plug after single termMENLO PARK, Calif. , Dec. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- BillionToOne, a next-generation molecular diagnostics company with a mission to create powerful and accurate tests that are accessible to all, today announced that they will be presenting at the 43rd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco, CA , on January 14, 2025 . BillionToOne marks a transformative year of achievements as it looks toward 2025. The company closed an oversubscribed, upsized Series D funding round led by Premji Invest in June, and was recently recognized as the Biotech Breakthrough Awards' Diagnostics Company of the Year. More than 500,000 patients have received BillionToOne tests to date, and the company has grown from $0M to $150M+ in annual recurring revenue over the past five years. This will be BillionToOne's second year in attendance at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference, and the company will present on the topic of "Redefining Molecular Diagnostics with Single-Molecule Precision." Presentation details are as follows: Location: Mission Bay (32nd Floor) at The Westin Date: Tuesday, January 14, 2025 Time: 2:30-2:55 pm PT A webcast and presentation materials will be available on BillionToOne's website: https://billiontoone.com/event/jpm-2025-43rd-annual-healthcare-conference/ About BillionToOne Headquartered in Menlo Park, California , BillionToOne is a precision diagnostics company on a mission to make molecular diagnostics more accurate, efficient, and accessible for everyone. The company's patented Quantitative Counting TechnologyTM (QCTTM) molecular counting platform is the only multiplex technology that can accurately count DNA molecules at the single-molecule level. For more information, please visit www.billiontoone.com . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/billiontoone-to-present-at-the-43rd-annual-jp-morgan-healthcare-conference-302338634.html SOURCE BillionToOne

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Serie A Round 15 Best XI: De Gea, Di María, Mxitaryan, and CKD ShineHugh Grant Has Always Played the VillainFans and pundits alike scrutinized Arteta's decision-making, questioning why Arsenal had let key signings slip through their fingers. The debate raged on social media and in the press, with opinions divided on whether Arteta had made a critical error in judgment.

Local health authorities have launched an investigation into the incident at the Multi-Person Fainting Bathhouse. Inspections of the facility's hygiene standards, water quality, ventilation systems, and overall safety measures are currently underway. The results of the investigation are expected to shed light on the root cause of the incident and guide future regulatory actions.

If U.S. president-elect lives up to his word and imposes a 25 per cent tariff on all imports from Canada, it would have a catastrophic impact on both sides of the border, throw an already-sputtering Canadian economy into a recession, and put the long-term future of the auto industry in this country into question, economists and trade experts say. The two countries’ economies are so intertwined — particularly in the manufacturing and energy sectors — that hitting Canada would also have a heavy impact on the U.S., argued Pedro Antunes, chief economist at the Conference Board of Canada. “This will be devastating for the Canadian economy, and devastating for the U.S. economy as well,” said Antunes. While manufacturers aren’t likely to shut down Canadian production or shift plants to the U.S. immediately, in the longer-term, they’ll likely be taking a hard look at whether they want to risk access to American consumers. “We’re going to see a deterioration of our attractiveness as an investment destination, because a lot of it is based on our access to the American economy,” said Antunes. “I think this could shut down the automotive industry in Canada.” The first impact American consumers would be likely to face is increased prices at the gas pump — particularly in the Midwest, where Canadian crude oil keeps refineries going at full-tilt, said Antunes. “There’d be an almost immediate impact on gasoline prices in the U.S., because they import a lot of Canadian crude. And we know how sensitive consumers in Canada and U.S. are to gasoline prices,” said Antunes. If the tariffs are 25 per cent across the board on all Canadian imports, the Canadian economy would shrink by 2.6 per cent, University of Calgary economist Trevor Tombe estimated. “And that’s just the straight impact of the tariffs, without any of the knock-on effects, or uncertainty, so it’s almost surely an underestimate,” said Tombe. “That’s basically a recession. The typical retraction is about three per cent in a recession.” Earlier this year, Tombe had prepared a tariff impact paper for the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, based on 10 per cent tariffs. After updating the numbers hastily following Trump’s Monday evening announcement on his Truth Social site, he found the potential impact to be even more grim. That 2.6 per cent drop in economic output translates into an annual loss of $78 billion for the Canadian economy, Tombe estimated. Tombe added that the tariffs would cause significant job losses, particularly in the hardest-hit sectors. “No question, there will be job losses. The tariff will result in reduced output in these heavily affected sectors, and with less production, they’re naturally going to lay off workers,” said Tombe. The U.S. market accounted for roughly 75 per cent of Canadian exports, a BMO report from economist Robert Kavcic found, making up about a quarter of Canada’s GDP. Canada sent $173 billion to the U.S. in energy exports alone last year, Kavcic’s report found, and tariffs would mean an immediate impact of higher oil and consumer gas prices in the U.S. The higher prices on goods from Canada flowing into the U.S. could depress demand for them, which could drag down an already shaky Canadian economy, Kavcic added. For the manufacturing sector, the impact of a full 25 per cent tariff would be devastating, warned Dennis Darby, CEO of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters. While it might not happen in exactly the form Trump has threatened, Darby said Canada can’t afford to take the sabre-rattling lightly. “When the incoming president says he’s going to do that on Day 1, you have to take that as credible,” said Darby. In the auto sector, supply chains are so intertwined across the border that it’s hard to believe Trump would implement tariffs across the board, argued Flavio Volpe, CEO of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association. “It would be like taking a sledgehammer to his own foot,” said Volpe, who estimated that roughly half of the parts going into Canadian-made cars are sourced from U.S. producers. “We’re so integrated in the automotive industry. So there’s no way to separate the American interests from the Canadian interests here,” said Volpe. While acknowledging that Trump isn’t immune from cutting off his nose to spite his face, his first term in office shows at least some glimmer of hope for rational economic action — at least eventually, Volpe added. “He did put a national security tariff on aluminum from Quebec that U.S. defence interests need. So for a while, he taxed his own military to make a point. But I’ll remind everybody that that was also a short-term point. And that we have leverage,” said Volpe. That leverage, says Volpe, comes from desperately needed Canadian critical minerals and energy resources such as oil and gas. Both of those, said Volpe, would help the U.S. loosen its trade ties with China. “You need independence from the Chinese sphere. And that comes from the resources we have in this country,” said Volpe. “We’ll be inside the tent by the time it’s all said and done, if we put in our best efforts to demonstrate that their best interests extend to this side of the border.” Laura Dawson, executive director of the Future Borders Coalition, doesn’t expect the tariffs to hit across the board. “I feel pretty confident that Canada can negotiate its way out of many of these tariffs because, for example, the U.S. imposing a tariff on Canadian oil and gas will have an immediate effect on U.S. consumers,” Dawson said. “What we know from Trump 1.0 is he does what he says. If he has a plan, he usually acts on it, but he doesn’t act on it with the magnitude that he could.” The worst case could see tit-for-tat retaliatory tariffs, a stalemate and the same politics that led to the Great Depression, Dawson warned.

In conclusion, Gan Wei's statement about her marriage to Jia Yueting serves as a powerful reminder that love, forgiveness, and personal growth are essential elements of any meaningful relationship. Her courage in embracing her past with grace and gratitude is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of love. Let us all learn from her example and strive to find meaning and acceptance in our own relationships, past and present.4. Green and Sustainable Vehicles

The partnership between SciMoSys and SK Hynix signifies a significant step forward for the Chinese semiconductor industry. By leveraging SK Hynix’s expertise in wafer-level packaging, SciMoSys is able to bring top-of-the-line memory solutions to market, catering to the increasing demand for high-speed and low-power memory modules.DAMASCUS (AP) — Exuberant Syrians observed the first Friday prayers since the ouster of President Bashar Assad , gathering in the capital's historic main mosque, its largest square and around the country to celebrate the end of half a century of authoritarian rule. The newly installed interim prime minister delivered the sermon at the Umayyad Mosque, declaring that a new era of “freedom, dignity and justice” was dawning for Syria. The gatherings illustrated the dramatic changes that have swept over Syria less than a week after insurgents marched into Damascus and toppled Assad. Amid the jubilation, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with allies around the region and called for an “inclusive and non-sectarian” interim government. Blinken arrived in Iraq on a previously unannounced stop after talks in Jordan and Turkey, which backs some of the Syrian insurgent factions. So far, U.S. officials have not talked of direct meetings with Syria's new rulers. The main insurgent force, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has worked to establish security and start a political transition after seizing Damascus early Sunday. The group has tried to reassure a public both stunned by Assad's fall and concerned about extremist jihadis among the rebels. Insurgent leaders say the group has broken with its extremist past, though HTS is still labeled a terrorist group by the United States and European countries. HTS's leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, appeared in a video message Friday congratulating “the great Syrian people for the victory of the blessed revolution.” “I invite them to head to the squares to show their happiness without shooting bullets and scaring people,” he said. “And then after, we will work to build this country, and as I said in the beginning, we will be victorious by the help of God.” Huge crowds, including some insurgents, packed the historic Umayyad Mosque in the capital's old city, many waving the rebel opposition flag — with its three red stars — which has swiftly replaced the Assad-era flag with with its two green stars. Syrian state television reported that the sermon was delivered by Mohammed al-Bashir, the interim prime minister installed by HTS this week. The scene resonated on multiple levels. The mosque, one of the world's oldest dating back some 1,200 years, is a beloved symbol of Syria, and sermons there like all mosque sermons across Syria were tightly controlled under Assad's rule. Also, in the early days of the anti-government uprising in 2011, protesters would leave Friday prayers to march in rallies against Assad before he launched a brutal crackdown that turned the uprising into a long and bloody civil war. “I didn’t step foot in Umayyad Mosque since 2011," because of the tight security controls around it, said one worshipper, Ibrahim al-Araby. “Since 11 or 12 years, I haven’t been this happy.” Another worshipper, Khair Taha, said there was “fear and trepidation for what’s to come. But there is also a lot of hope that now we have a say and we can try to build.” Blocks away in Damascus' biggest roundabout, named Umayyad Square, thousands gathered, including many families with small children — a sign of how, so far at least, the country's transformation has not caused violent instability. “Unified Syria to build Syria,” the crowd chanted. Some shouted slurs against Assad and his late father, calling them pigs, an insult that would have previously led to offenders being hauled off to one of the feared detention centers of Assad’s security forces. One man in the crowd, 51-year-old Khaled Abu Chahine — originally from the southern province of Daraa, where the 2011 uprising first erupted — said he hoped for “freedom and coexistence between all Syrians, Alawites, Sunnis, Shiites and Druze.” The interim prime minister, al-Bashir, had been the head of a de facto administration created by HTS in Idlib, the opposition's enclave in northwest Syria. The rebels were bottled up in Idlib for years before fighters broke out in a shock offensive and marched across Syria in 10 days. Similar scenes of joy unfolded in other major cities, including in Aleppo, Homs, Hama, Latakia and Raqqa. Al-Sharaa, HTS' leader, has promised to bring a pluralistic government to Syria, seeking to dispel fears among many Syrians — especially its many minority communities — that the insurgents will impose a hard-line, extremist rule. Another key factor will be winning international recognition for a new government in a country where multiple foreign powers have their hands in the mix. The Sunni Arab insurgents who overthrew Assad did so with vital help from Turkey, a longtime foe of the U.S.-backed Kurds . Turkey controls a strip of Syrian territory along the shared border and backs an insurgent faction uneasily allied to HTS — and is deeply opposed to any gains by Syria's Kurds. In other developments, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said Turkey’s Embassy in Damascus would reopen Saturday for the first time since 2012, when it closed due to the Syrian civil war. The U.S. has troops in eastern Syria to combat remnants of the Islamic State group and supports Kurdish-led fighters who rule most of the east. Since Assad's fall, Israel has bombed sites all over Syria, saying it is trying to prevent weapons from falling into extremist hands. It has also seized a swath of southern Syria along the border with the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, calling it a buffer zone. After talks with Fidan, Blinken said there was “broad agreement” between Turkey and the U.S. on what they would like to see in Syria. That starts with an "interim government in Syria, one that is inclusive and non-sectarian and one that protects the rights of minorities and women” and does not “pose any kind of threat to any of Syria’s neighbors,” Blinken said. Fidan said the priority was “establishing stability in Syria as soon as possible, preventing terrorism from gaining ground, and ensuring that IS and the PKK aren’t dominant” — referring to the Islamic State group and the Kurdistan Workers Party. Ankara considers the PKK within Turkey's borders a terrorist group, as it does the Kurdish-backed forces in Syria backed by the U.S. A U.S. official said that in Ankara, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Fidan both told Blinken that Kurdish attacks on Turkish positions would require a response. The official spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity to discuss private diplomatic talks. The U.S. has been trying to limit such incidents in recent days and had helped organize an agreement to prevent confrontations around the northern Syrian town of Manbij, which was taken by Turkey-backed opposition fighters from the U.S.-backed Kurdish forces earlier this week. In Baghdad, Blinken met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani, saying both countries wanted to ensure the Islamic State group — also known by its Arabic acronym Daesh — doesn't exploit Syria's transition to re-emerge. “Having put Daesh back in its box, we can’t let it out, and we’re determined to make sure that that doesn’t happen," Blinken said. The U.S. official who briefed reporters said that Blinken had impressed upon al-Sudani the importance of Iraq exercising its full sovereignty over its territory and airspace to stop Iran from transporting weapons and equipment to Syria, either for Assad supporters or onward to the militant Hezbollah group in Lebanon. Lee reported from Ankara, Turkey. Associated Press writers Suzan Fraser in Ankara and Sally Abou AlJoud in Beirut contributed to this report.

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Despite the retracement in the market, the trading volume remained high, reaching 415.1 billion yuan by the end of the session. This high volume of trading activity indicated active participation from both institutional and retail investors, highlighting the continued interest in A-shares and the overall stock market.

After a long election campaign that has polarized American and international public opinion, Donald Trump is confirmed as the 47th president of the United States. His victory generates curiosity and debates in every part of the world, spreading a certain sense of expectation and apprehension about the future of the global order. All world leaders, regardless of their political color, have greeted the president-elect by sending messages of congratulations. Among these, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stands out. Traditionally, Meloni had intense and deep relations with the conservative establishment, while recently, she has marked a U-turn toward democratic positions with the Biden administration. As a matter of fact, since her rise to power in 2022, Meloni has cooled many of her more traditionally ideological demands to better represent her institutional role within a European Union characterized by the liberal left and to honor the historic Italian-American friendship. The scenario could change today without compromising the close interests binding Italy and the U.S. Meloni certainly wasted no time in congratulating Trump on his electoral victory: During the phone call, she expressed her willingness to work in close coordination on all the main international dossiers, starting with the war in Ukraine and the crisis in the Middle East, sharing the goal "of promoting stability and security, also in the context of relations with the EU." The government note also reports that "the intention to continue the path of strengthening the already excellent bilateral relations, based on shared values and principles, agreeing on the opportunity to remain in close contact" was affirmed and that "the solid alliance, the strategic partnership and the deep and historic friendship that have always tied Rome and Washington" was confirmed. At the same time, as reported on X, Meloni called her friend Elon Musk, CEO of X and Tesla and an ally of Trump in his race toward the White House. "I am convinced that his commitment and vision will be an important resource for the U.S. and Italy, in a spirit of collaboration aimed at facing future challenges," wrote Meloni. Indeed, her relationship with Musk is quite deep and well-tested. Musk was welcomed several times by the leader of Fratelli d’Italia, the last one at the end of 2023 in Rome along a right-wing manifestation. Moreover, in September 2024, Musk himself presented Meloni with the Atlantic Council's “Global Citizen Award” in New York, marking a move that could be interpreted as an intention to reapproach the Republican front. As a matter of fact, today, there is room to think that Musk could act as a point of contact between Trump and Meloni, elevating the latter to main European interlocutor alongside Orban, who has always sided with the Republican candidate. More recently, some statements by Elon Musk are to be read as an endorsement of Meloni, although they have inflamed the Italian political climate, further exacerbating social polarization. Referring to the decision of the Italian judges to block the sending of some migrants from Italy to the reception camp set up by the Italian government in Albania, Elon Musk posted on X: "These judges must go." The externalization of irregular migration is indeed an ambitious project in which the Meloni government invested, but it immediately faced the issue of illegitimacy as established by the Italian judiciary. "Do the Italian people live in a democracy or is it an unelected autocracy that makes decisions?" Musk doubled down by sparking discontent in some sectors of Italian politics and society. "Italy knows how to take care of itself in compliance with its Constitution ... Anyone, especially if, as announced, is about to assume an important government role in a friendly and allied country, must respect its sovereignty and cannot take on the task of issuing prescriptions," the words of the president of Italy's Republic, Sergio Mattarella addressing Musk, who in turn replied that he "respected the Italian president and expressed his opinions as a free citizen." However, the Ceo of Tesla and X, also in his next institutional capacity as leader of the U.S. government efficiency, risked enlarging further some political fracture in Italy, either in terms of relations between the government and the opposition, either within the governing group and within Meloni's party, Fratelli di Italia. Meloni concluded: "We always listen with great respect to the words of the president." In a historical moment when the nomination of Raffaele Fitto as European Commissioner has been questioned again at a European level and many dossiers are on the government's desk, the priority of the Italian Prime Minister is focusing on a climate of substantial social unity. In this regard, along with growing concerns, Meloni would warn her friend Musk to tone down and not " put her in difficulty." As it is evident, between the two, there is great political harmony, also hinging on important complementarities in business, both about the Italian acquisition of Tesla and the Starlink satellite network. This was supplied during the flood hitting Italy's northern region of Emilia Romagna in 2023 by ensuring precise localization and communication to cope with the emergency. There are rumors about agreements regarding satellite coverage projects at institutional, defense and security levels. To some extent, this marks a new page for the Italian PM, for her party Fratelli di Italia and for the Italian government, which in the past four years had flattened itself on the democratic positions of the outgoing President Joe Biden, distorting in a certain sense its own political identity in the name of the values of the transatlantic alliance. Undoubtedly, Meloni and her party embed the right-wing instances genetically close to conservative programmatic contents of the Republicans, on which politically there is a substantial convergence on internal issues pivoting mainly on migration and border defense. When in the past, she was still in the opposition circles, Meloni celebrated Trump, then president of the U.S., pronouncing words of criticism towards Europe and characterized by a strong sovereignism. However, once she became head of the Italian government, the tone changed as she was totally embedded in the European structure; even the rhetoric regarding the Russian-Ukrainian war recorded a u-turn, aligning itself with Biden's positions. It is therefore clear that, as Italian Prime Minister, Meloni has been in the position of keeping a complicated balance regarding American politics: the Italian imperative is indeed to demonstrate that it is a reliable ally of the U.S., given the enormous economic and diplomatic influence and the historical legacy binding them. In this light, in her government tenure, Meloni has assumed controversial positions, thus she was criticized especially by her traditional electorate. Her transition from opposition leader to head of government, coinciding with the Biden administration, has therefore marked a sort of transformation from more Trumpian instances to those more aligned with democratic values. Eventually, with Trump's reconfirmation at the White House, these contradictions may disappear without implications to the structural limits imposed by Italy's ties with the EU and by Italian interests in some regional chess boards. To date, in several sectors, the great question mark is over the future of Italy's positioning in Ukraine and in the Middle East. Besides, the fear of the return of economic duties and of constraints of the allies on the NATO budget is looming. Nevertheless, within the Italian political spectrum, different feelings about Trump are carved out. While the opposition has always been against the conservatives' actions and perceives Trump as “the worst that could happen” in terms of the defense of rights, the Italian center-right was quite divided, except Matteo Salvini, leader of the Lega, who has always openly supported Trump. "Tax cuts, the fight against illegal immigration, the return to peace as a priority ... President Trump will act in the interests of U.S. citizens, as it is right. If, in pursuing these interests, we could create a new international balance, with the closure of the conflicts between Russia and Ukraine and Israel and Palestine, the entire world would gain from it," Salvini claims. On top of everything, the great unknown is related to the future of the EU and its relations with the U.S. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen congratulated Trump with “an excellent phone call,” stating: “Looking forward to strengthening EU-U.S. ties and working jointly to address geopolitical challenges,” X reports. However, there is room to believe that dark prospects await the EU, which – now more than ever – must make an immediate leap in quality and broadening its vision. In an increasingly fractured European framework characterized by strong growth of right-wing movements, a progressive loss of French influence, and the German crisis, Giorgia Meloni is undoubtedly the leader who enjoys stable support and a certain international projection. All these elements eventually suggest the rise of Meloni as a privileged interlocutor of Trump's America, together with Orban, who recently hosted the European Political Union Summit in Budapest, where a new wind of change was felt. It is, therefore, not surprising if, in the medium term, within the EU, we would observe new alignments in favor of Italy, which is proving to be increasingly central in the management of some dossiers. On the other hand, Meloni is in the delicate position to find the right balance between the inner original spirit of Fratelli d'Italia, which was aligned with Trump's approach, and the national and European political constraints. In this case, by echoing Meloni, it would not be wrong to say that “with this American vote, Italy will be stronger in Europe.”Title: How Much is Marcus Rashford Worth?

MTN South Africa has launched its Icon 5G-enabled smartphone priced at $137.22. According to the telecoms giant, the new device is part of its focus to bridge the digital divide on the continent. It will also make the latest mobile network technology available to all South Africans. Recall that we reported that the telecommunications company completed its first 5.5G network trial in Africa in partnership with Huawei earlier in the month. The innovative technology is intended to set a new tone in the continent’s telecommunications structure. During the 5G smartphone launch, MTN South Africa’s general manager of devices, Thando Gabela said that the development is a step towards making mobile communication services accessible to all. “We are excited to bring this affordable 5G smartphone to the South African market. This is another significant step in our mission to ensure that all South Africans have access to fast, reliable, and affordable mobile communication, regardless of their economic background,” he said. He added that adopting the new devices will enable swift and more reliable network services. “ As we continue to roll out our network advancements, the increased adoption of 4G and 5G devices empowers our customers with faster, more reliable services — unlocking new opportunities for education, business, and personal growth. ” He also pointed out that its targeted consumers include those seeking to migrate from 2G-only and 3G-only devices. As for its features, the Icon 5G smartphone has a 6.6-inch screen, 5,000 mAh battery, and 128GB of onboard storage. It also has a 50 MP and 2 MP dual camera and the front camera is an 8MP shooter. South Africans might be forced to upgrade from 3G-only smartphones in the coming years. According to a timeline by the country’s Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) in February, the switch-off of 2G and 3G would start from 1 June 2025 and be fully completed by 31 December 2027. The revised Next-Generation Radio Frequency Spectrum Policy also provides that mobile operators can decide in which order they want to switch off their legacy networks. The policy also stated that the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) would be responsible for setting specific guidelines on the timing of the key steps in the process. The communications minister Solly Malatsi, who was appointed after the policy was published, said that he does agree with the government on its decision to impose deadlines for the switch-off. “ While there is a determination to get towards the sunsetting of 2G and 3G, I think the most important thing is that it has to be market-led instead of a government imposition of a deadline,” he said. Mobile networks such as Vodacom and MTN have expressed their support for the minister’s statement. Two weeks ago, the company completed the first 5.5G network trial in Africa. According to MTN, the innovative technology of the 5.5G network is intended to set a new tone in African telecommunications. During the trial, the company deployed Huawei’s commercial SingleRAN ultra-wideband active-antenna units and applied hybrid beamforming architecture. In addition, it employed innovative technologies such as flexible dynamic beam management and Inter-FR carrier aggregation (CA). MTN said the network expansion will offer an ultra-high-speed experience of 8.6 Gbps to users. The experience will also expand new commercial services for consumers, households, and enterprises. It will again accelerate advanced use cases such as 24K Extended Reality (XR), High-Speed Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), holographic conferencing, enhanced 5G private networks, and so on. Rami Farah, MTN South Africa CTO, described the network advancement as a testament to MTN’s commitment to excellence. “The successful validation of 5.5G technology by MTN SA and Huawei is not just a technical breakthrough but also a testament to MTN’s ongoing pursuit of excellence. We look forward to more innovative solutions to continuously build the best network and deliver an enhanced experience for South African residents ,” he said. As part of its drive for advanced network, MTN launched Benin’s first 5G network last week. Read More: MTN completes first 5.5G trial in South Africa .Moreover, Tencent Video has amplified its efforts in content curation and production to offer a diverse range of high-quality shows and movies to its members. Exclusive collaborations with renowned production houses and celebrities have led to the creation of original content that is both engaging and captivating, further strengthening the appeal of Tencent Video as a premier streaming platform in China.

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Don't break the bank this holiday season: tips to save during the holidaysIn the end, while the Shandong High-Speed Men's Basketball Team's winning streak may have come to an end, their journey in the CBA continues, filled with challenges, triumphs, and the unwavering spirit of competition that defines the essence of professional basketball. The road to success is never easy, but with dedication, teamwork, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Shandong remains poised to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness in the seasons to come.

While the ban on DJI and DJI drones may be met with criticism and pushback, it underscores the importance of maintaining vigilance and taking necessary steps to protect national security in an increasingly interconnected world. As the debate over the use of drones and concerns about data privacy and security continue to evolve, it is clear that the issue of national security will remain at the forefront of discussions surrounding the use of technology in the years to come.Barrage Paradise 2.0 Game Festival Highlights: Must-Play Masterpieces

Microsoft's commitment to sustainable technology solutions is further exemplified by their investment in research and development to bring this innovative design to fruition. By pushing the boundaries of conventional practices and embracing new approaches, the company is paving the way for a more sustainable and eco-friendly future in the tech industry.

As the Taylor Swift tour continues to captivate audiences around the world, the economic benefits for local communities are clear. With fans eagerly opening their wallets to support their favorite artist and businesses reaping the rewards of increased foot traffic, the synergy between entertainment and economics is on full display. Beyond the dollars and cents, the spirit of celebration and togetherness that permeates each tour stop leaves a meaningful impact that resonates long after the final notes have faded.

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US stocks take a breather, Asian bourses rise in post-Christmas tradeManmohan Singh, the former Indian prime minister whose economic reforms made his country a global powerhouse, has died at the age of 92, current leader Narendra Modi said Thursday. India “mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders,” Modi posted on social media platform X shortly after news broke of Singh’s passing. “As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives.” Singh was taken to a hospital in New Delhi after he lost consciousness at his home on Thursday, but could not be resuscitated and was pronounced dead at 9:51 pm local time, according to a statement by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences. Singh, who held office from 2004 to 2014, is credited with having overseen an economic boom in Asia’s fourth-largest economy in his first term, although slowing growth in later years marred his second stint. “I have lost a mentor and guide,” opposition Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said in a statement, adding that Singh had “led India with immense wisdom and integrity.” “Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride,” said Gandhi, a scion of India’s powerful Nehru-Gandhi dynasty and the most prominent challenger to Modi. Mallikarjun Kharge, leader of the opposition in parliament’s upper house, said “India has lost a visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature.” President Droupadi Murmu wrote on X that Singh will “always be remembered for his service to the nation, his unblemished political life and his utmost humility.” – ‘Mr Clean’ – Born in 1932 in the mud-house village of Gah in what is now Pakistan, Singh studied economics to find a way to eradicate poverty in India and never held elected office before taking the vast nation’s top job. He won scholarships to attend both Cambridge, where he obtained a first in economics, and Oxford, where he completed his PhD. Singh worked in a string of senior civil posts, served as a central bank governor and also held various jobs with global agencies including the United Nations. He was tapped in 1991 by then Congress prime minister P.V. Narasimha Rao to reel India back from the worst financial crisis in its modern history. In his first term Singh steered the economy through a period of nine-percent growth, lending India the international clout it had long sought. He also sealed a landmark nuclear deal with the United States that he said would help India meet its growing energy needs. Known as “Mr Clean”, Singh nonetheless saw his image tarnished during his decade-long tenure when a series of corruption cases became public. Several months before the 2014 elections, Singh said he would retire after the polls, with Sonia Gandhi’s son Rahul earmarked to take his place if Congress won. But Congress crashed to its worst-ever result at that time as the Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party, led by Modi, won in a landslide. Singh — who said historians would be kinder to him than contemporary detractors — became a vocal critic of Modi’s economic policies, and more recently warned about the risks that rising communal tensions posed to India’s democracy.

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YOU could lose out on a £1million Lotto jackpot due to a hidden rule in the small-print. Sub-postmaster Gerald Lowery, 67, has warned scratchcard players over the little-known mistake. Gerald sells National Lottery scratchcards at his Post Office branch in the Cumbrian village of Millom. Earlier this year a customer came in to claim a £5 prize on their scratchcard. But Gerald spotted the scratchcard had been accidentally sold after its expiry date. A baffled Gerald refunded the customer himself - saying it was lucky they hadn't won the £1million jackpot. Most read in Money FOOD FIGHT BBC chef apologises after closing restaurant - leaving customers out of pocket FOR LUCK'S SAKE Watch moment £100k lotto jackpot 'DISAPPEARS' leaving player with nothing If you scratched off the maximum £1million Scratchcard prize, you could lose out if your winning ticket expired before sale. Gerald was puzzled why the out-of-date ticket had slipped through and flagged the problem with lotto operator Allywn. The firm told him that he had missed the deadline to sell the scratchcard pack - and could not get a refund for unsold cards. Gerald told The Sun: "I haven't done anything wrong, but I'm out of pocket." Most read in Money FESTIVE BEER Full list of Wetherspoons opening in Scotland on Xmas Day, is one near you? WINTER WONDERLAND First look inside award-winning Santa's Grotto just 20mins from Glasgow FARM LIFE Farm with Scotland's only lake up for sale LUXURY LIVING Scots tycoon smashes house sale record at neighbourhood loved by celebs He put the pack on sale in September 1 last year, two months before the deadline for "activating" them. National Lottery Winners' advisors tell The Sun what it's like to give away £7bn The last day where he could officially sell the cards was January 29 this year, and the deadline for players to claim their prizes was July 27. Gerald kept the cards on sale on the understanding Allwyn would not send a new pack until the old one had sold out. He said he must have accidentally sold a scratchcard after the January 29 deadline, but is confused how it could have happened. The sub-postmaster said he was used to the old system where Post Office middlemen dealt with longtime Lotto operator Camelot. Under the old system, Post Office officials would refund shopkeepers for any unsold cards. But new operator Allwyn deals with shopkeepers directly - and Gerald likely fell foul of the small print while adjusting. He said the rule changes have left him out of pocket even though he has done nothing wrong. Gerald said: " I am just disappointed in Allywn and very wary of them. "They've had people come to visit my shop and they were of no help whatsoever. It's gone on long enough now." Allwyn said it will send someone to Gerald's shop to help him figure out any issues and get used to the system. The operator said Gerald doesn't owe any money - but isn't due a refund for unsold scratchcards either. UK's biggest lottery winners By Ethan Singh Anonymous winner - £195,707,000 A UK ticket-holder scooped the record EuroMillions jackpot of £195 million on July 19 2022 – the biggest National Lottery win of all time. The holder, who remains anonymous to this day, amassed the fortune with just one lucky ticket. Joe and Jess Thwaite - £184,262,899.10 Britain's previous EuroMillions record holders were Joe and Jess Thwaite. The couple won a record-breaking £184million jackpot in May 2022 and shared hopes of a Hawaiian holiday and a new horse box for their children's ponies. Joe bought his winning ticket online on May 10, 2022, and the following morning received an email with good news. As he learnt of the huge win, he was in disbelief and initially kept it for himself as he did not want to disturb his wife, who was sleeping. Joe, a communications sales engineer, and Jess, who runs a hairdressing salon with her sister, have been married for 11 years and have two children. Colin and Chris Weir, £161,653,000 Colin and Christine Weir landed the colossal prize money in 2011 and were Europe’s second-biggest winners until someone in Italy won a jackpot worth £193m in 2019. They splashed the cash at an astounding rate of £100,000 a week before tragedy struck. But at the time of Colin’s death in December 2019 his share of the prize money had dwindled by around £40m . He spent the millions living a life of luxury, forking out for sports cars, property and the football club he supported. Colin and Christine divorced shortly before his death after being married for 38 years. He left money for their children Carly and Jamie. Adrian and Gillian Brayford - £148,600,000 Adrian and Gillian won 190 million euros in a EuroMillions draw in August 2012, which came to just over £148 million. But Adrian split from Gillian the following year because of the stress of the win. The couple bought a Grade II listed estate in Cambridgeshire, complete with cinema and billiards room, but it was sold in 2021. After divorcing in 2013, he failed to woo ex-sausage factory worker Marta Jarosz — but fell for stable girl Sam Burbidge. She left him in 2017, taking 30 prize horses Adrian bought. It might have worked out in the end for Adrian though as the former postman was seen smiling with ambulance worker Tracey Biles last year. Frances and Patrick Connolly - £114,969,775 Former social worker and teacher Frances set up two charitable foundations after she and her husband hit the jackpot. They scooped almost £115 million on New Year’s Day 2019. She estimates that she has already given away £60 million to charitable causes, as well as friends and family. Richard and Debbie Nuttall - £61,000,000 The couple from Colne, Lancashire, took home £61 million on January 30 2024. Both 54, they were enjoying a holiday in Fuerteventura, celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary. But they then discovered the big EuroMillions win. Richard revealed they originally thought they had won £2.60, but then received another email telling the pair to check their account. Other eye-watering anonymous winners: 2019 - £123million Another anonymous winner scooped up a prize of £123,458,008 in the June Superdraw rollover. 2021 - £122million Following nine rollovers, one ticketholder bagged the £122,550,350 jackpot last April. The successful participant chose to remain anonymous. 2018 - £121million Another anonymous winner found their fortune during the Superdraw jackpot rollover in April 2018, securing £121,328,187. An Allwyn spokesperson said: "This pack of 60 Scratchcards was activated for sale on September 1 last year. "The game closed for sale on 29 January 2024 – over four months later. "Once the pack was activated, the Scratchcards became the retailer’s property. "To be clear, Mr Lowery doesn't owe anything, and he isn't due anything either. "We don't offer refunds for activated partial packs, nor did the previous National Lottery operator. "This is because retailers are given plenty of time to sell through the packs. "Full, unactivated Scratchcard packs should be returned, free of charge. "The retailer would've previously contracted directly with Post Office Limited in relation to his National Lottery account." Read more on the Scottish Sun FESTIVE FIZZ Coca-Cola Christmas truck in Scotland: Dates, locations & all you need to know AND RELAX Scots seaside hotel with outdoor hot tub and firepit named UK's top spa resort Allwyn added: "Post Office Limited may have had different processes to follow. "We'll get a member of our team to arrange a visit with Mr Lowery to offer him further support." 1 Sub-postmaster Gerald Lowery, 67, warned scratchcard players over the mistake Credit: Alamy What are my chances of winning the lottery? EVERYONE wants to know how to beat the odds and win the lottery. But unfortunately, the lottery is a game of luck and there are no tips or tricks that can guarantee you'll take home a top prize. The odds show how likely you are to win any particular prize - the lower the number, the better the odds. For example, odds of 1 in 10 are better than odds of 1 in 100 or 1 in 1,000. There are several major lottery games in the UK including Lotto by the National Lottery, Camelot's EuroMillions and Thunderball. Chances of winning the Lotto Lotto by the National Lottery is a game where you pick six numbers from 1 to 59. You can play up to seven lines of numbers on each slip. The game costs £2 to play per slip. The odds of winning any prize on the Lotto are 1 in 9.3. But to win the jackpot on the Lotto, the odds are considerably slimmer. To bag the top prize , you need to have six matching balls. The odds of doing this and scooping the jackpot are currently 1 in 45,057,474. The next highest prize of £1,000,000 is for getting five main matching balls plus the bonus ball. The odds of taking home the million pound prize are 1 in 7,509,579 - far higher than the jackpot, but still unlikely. The odds of taking home £1,750 for getting five main numbers without the bonus ball are 1 in 2,180, while you have a 1 in 97 chance of bagging £140 for getting four main numbers. Your chances of taking home £30 for getting 3 main numbers are much better at 1 in 97. And you have a roughly 1 in 10 chance of getting a free lucky dip for 2 matching numbers. Chances of winning the EuroMillions The EuroMillions costs £2.50 to play and is open on Tuesdays and Fridays. To play, you must pick five numbers from 1-50 and two "Lucky Stars" from 1-12. Players with the most matching numbers win the top prizes. Your chance of bagging the EuroMillions jackpot is even slimmer than winning the top Lotto prize. This is because it generally has higher jackpots on offer, meaning it attracts more attention . Currently, the odds of matching five numbers and two lucky stars - the top win - stand at 1 in 139,838,160. The average jackpot prize is £57,923,499, according to EuroMillions. The odds of winning the second top prize for matching 5 balls and a lucky star, which is typically around £262,346, are 1 in 6,991,908. The chances of taking home the third prize for five matching balls, with an average payout of £26,277, are 1 in 3,107,515. For four matching balls with two lucky stars, it's 1 in 621,503, and for four balls with one lucky star, it's 1 in 31,076. These come with an average prize of £1,489 and £95, respectively. Chances of winning the Thunderball Thunderball is another game run by National Lottery where you pick five numbers and one "Thunderball". It costs just £1 to play and you can enter up to four times a week. The jackpot of £500,000 for matching five balls plus the Thunderball is 1 in 8,060,598. Your odds of bagging the next highest prize of £5,000 for matching five balls is currently 1 in 620,046, while the chances of winning £250 for four balls plus the Thunderball is 1 in 47,416. You have the best chance of winning £3 for matching the Thunderball, with odds of 1 in 29.Teaser: Robert DeNiro In “Zero Day” Series

EDMONTON - Muriel Stanley Venne, a trail-blazing Métis woman known for her Indigenous rights advocacy, has died at 87. Venne, born in Lamont, Alta., was one of the first appointees to Alberta’s Human Rights Commission in 1973 and later served as chair. She founded the Women of the Métis Nation as well as Esquao, the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women. She also created programming for the Métis Nation of Alberta before serving as provincial vice president from 2008 to 2012. “Muriel devoted her life to advancing the rights and well-being of Métis and other Indigenous peoples,” reads an online tribute to Venne made by the Métis Nation of Alberta. “Through her remarkable leadership, she transformed advocacy into action, creating lasting change in employment, education and justice.” In 2017, Venne had a provincial government building named after her in Edmonton. It was the first time a provincial building was named after an Indigenous woman in Alberta. In a statement, the Women of the Métis Nation, also known as Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak, said Venne was an inspiration to many Indigenous women. It said her advocacy work for missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls was a catalyst for change in the justice system, as was her advocacy for Cindy Gladue. In 2011, Gladue was found dead in a hotel bathroom. Ontario truck driver Bradley Barton was initially charged with murder but was found not guilty in 2015. Barton was found guilty in 2021 of manslaughter, but the initial trial drew outrage as Gladue was repeatedly referred to as a “prostitute” and “native” throughout proceedings. “She brought attention to incidents of discrimination, such as in the case of Cindy Gladue, as emblematic of the broader mistreatment of Indigenous women within the criminal justice system,” the Women of the Métis Nation statement said. “Her work in justice profoundly influenced how Canadian law and the criminal justice system respond to systemic violence against Indigenous women.” Women of the Métis Nation president Melanie Omeniho said in the statement that Venne’s legacy will carry on for generations to come. “She was a true gift to us all, and her presence will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her,” Omeniho said. Venne was the recipient of numerous accolades throughout her life. She was awarded the Alberta Human Rights Award in 1998 and, in 2005, was the first Métis person to receive the Order of Canada. She was named to Alberta’s Order of Excellence in 2019. In a statement Monday, Minister of Indigenous Relations Rick Wilson said the province “lost a guiding light” with Venne’s passing. “Muriel leaves behind a lasting legacy of advocating for the rights of Indigenous women and people,” Wilson said. Venne ran as an NDP candidate in the 2012 provincial election, and the party said on social media Friday that “her life was an inspirational model of leadership, and her legacy is profound.” “She made a real difference in many lives,” said then NDP-leader and former Alberta cabinet minister Brian Mason on social media. “Her list of accomplishments and awards could take pages.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 23, 2024.A New Year's resolution can be a great motivator to make a positive change in your life. But only if you do it the right way. Brainstorm, make a plan and set realistic goals for yourself. If you're looking to get in shape, lose weight or even just improve your mobility for 2025, there are plenty of experts based right here in Denton to help you get a solid start. Here are some of this year's Best of Denton winners for the best spots for physical fitness, health and wellness, voted by you. Looking for more Best of Denton? Check out the full list of winners and finalists and sign up for the free weekly newsletter here ! This new email newsletter features specific winners and finalists every week — and it’s all totally free. Bloom Yoga Bloom Yoga Yoga can be a perfect option no matter what goals you have for yourself. Stretching, building strength and calming your mind will make you healthier. Bloom Yoga operates out of a cozy downtown location and is a recurring winner and finalist of the Best Yoga Studio category. There are class difficulty levels for wherever you are in your fitness journey, and experts can even train to be come teachers. Best Yoga Studio Finalists 1. Yoga Project 2. Twisted Bodies Social Cycle, an indoor cycling studio, opened in March at 3220 Teasley Lane, Suite 116. The Peloton has been all the rage in the past few years, but not without a few customers making returns because they didn't use it often enough. Before you make that financial leap, consider taking a live cycling class. Instead of a video on a screen, Social Cycle is all about community — not to mention the physical difficulty of cycling in itself. So, get ready for a tough workout with a new group of friends. Best Health and Fitness Club Finalists 1. North Lakes Recreation Center 2. Denton Jazzercise Soma Massage Therapy, a local and longtime Denton business, won the Denton Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business of the Year Award in 2024. Whether you're getting a massage because you've been working your muscles to soreness or just because you plain feel like treating yourself, Soma Massage Therapy is the best there is. Not only did the massage center win a Small Business Award from the Denton Chamber of Commerce this year, Soma has also won the Best of Denton category since opening in 2013. Best Massage Center Finalists 1. Essentials Day Spa 2. Denton Sports Chiropractic D&D Sports Med If you're struggling with joint or muscle pain, consider a New Year's resolution to get your body working comfortably again with a physical therapist. A physical therapist can alleviate back pain, neck pain, knee pain and even balance problems. A recurring Best of Denton finalist and winner, D&D Sports Med wants to help you feel better. Best Physical Therapist Finalists 1. Direct Orthopedic Care - Denton 2. Select Rehabilitation Hospital of Denton North Texas GI Associates Weight Loss North Texas GI Associates provides several treatments and steps for guided weight loss, all of which are tailored specifically to the patient. Best Weight Loss Treatment Finalists 1. Radiant Life Wellness & Aesthetics 2. Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas The Best of Denton awards, hosted annually by the Denton Record-Chronicle, highlight local small businesses across more than 200 categories. Nominees, finalists and winners are selected by voters between April and July. No purchase is necessary to nominate, vote or win.

Japan's Nikkei index closed up 1.1 percent, boosted by comments from the Bank of Japan governor and share price gains for top-selling automaker Toyota. China's plans for massive bond issuances in 2025 also bolstered investor sentiment. "Even though many in the region are still shaking off a bit of a holiday hangover, with several markets closed for Boxing Day, Asian stocks opened higher, riding a favorable wave from China's financial bond juggernaut," said Stephen Innes from SPI Asset Management. In New York, major indices veered in and out of positive territory in a sleepy post-Christmas session. The broad-based S&P 500 finished down less than 0.1 percent. Large technology companies that have led the market in much of 2024 mostly took a breather. These included Netflix, Tesla and Amazon, all of which declined. "What's interesting today is that we're seeing small stocks bounce back a little bit," said Steve Sosnick of Interactive Brokers, noting that the Russell 2000 index put on 0.9 percent. Holiday consumer data showed a 3.8-percent increase in US retail spending from November 1 to December 24, according to a Mastercard SpendingPulse review of a key period for retailers. London Stockton, an analyst at Ned Davis Research, noted that the "Santa Claus rally could still be alive, with strong seasonality into the end of the year." Stock markets have traditionally fared well in the last five trading days of the year and the first two in the new year, a trend known as the "Santa Claus rally." Among a number of possible reasons advanced by experts include the festive holiday mood and purchasing ahead of the end of the tax year. Innes said remarks from Bank of Japan governor Kazuo Ueda in which he refrained from signaling a potential interest rate hike next month also "influenced bullish regional sentiments." Japanese market heavyweight Toyota ended nearly six percent higher after reports in the Nikkei business daily said it aimed to double its return on equity -- a key measure of a company's financial performance. New York - Dow: UP 0.1 percent at 43,325.80 (close) New York - S&P 500: DOWN less than 0.1 percent at 6,037.59 (close) New York - Nasdaq: DOWN 0.1 percent at 20,020.36 (close) Tokyo - Nikkei 225: UP 1.1 percent at 39,568.06 points (close) Hang Seng: UP 1.1 percent at 20,098.29 points (Tuesday close) Shanghai - Composite: UP 0.1 percent at 3,398.08 points (close) Euro/dollar: UP at $1.0424 from $1.0414 on Tuesday Pound/dollar: DOWN at $1.2526 from $1.2538 Dollar/yen: UP at 158.00 yen from 157.06 yen Euro/pound: UP at 83.19 pence from 83.05 pence West Texas Intermediate: DOWN 0.7 percent at $69.62 per barrel Brent North Sea Crude: DOWN 0.4 percent at $73.26 per barrel bur-jmb/ahaAnalytic Partners Placed Highest for Ability to Execute and Furthest for Completeness of Vision MIAMI , Nov. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Analytic Partners, the Commercial Intelligence company for insights-driven brands, today announced it has been recognized as a Leader in the inaugural Gartner® Magic QuadrantTM for Marketing Mix Modeling (MMM) Solutions. Analytic Partners is positioned highest in Ability to Execute and furthest in Completeness of Vision. "We believe our position as a Leader underscores our dedication to our customers and our ongoing commitment to innovation," said Nancy Smith , President and CEO of Analytic Partners. "We appreciate the extensive research Gartner has done in guiding our industry forward. This recognition, we feel, highlights the critical role Commercial Analytics plays in delivering forward-looking decisioning for lasting, meaningful growth." Elevating Insights Beyond MMM and MTA Analytic Partners' longstanding commitment to deliver insights and solutions extends well beyond Multi-Touch Attribution (MTA) and MMM. Analytic Partners' Commercial Analytics solution integrates all factors driving performance outcomes – including finance, supply chain and other enterprise functions. This holistic, company-wide approach provides a forward-looking decisioning framework that brands rely on to measure both short-term and long-term impact, ensuring sustained growth. GPS Enterprise: A Powerful Platform for Enabling Growth Powered by the GPS Enterprise platform, Commercial Analytics combines data science and technology to deliver actionable insights that enable brands to make proactive, forward-looking commercial decisions. This end-to-end platform, informed by ROI Genome intelligence, ensures streamlined data management, application of advanced analytics and multi-objective optimizations to help brands meet their growth goals. Recognition extends to Gartner Critical Capabilities Report for MMM Solutions The recognition also extends beyond the Magic QuadrantTM. In the accompanying Critical Capabilities report for MMM Solutions, Analytic Partners received the highest scores across all 8 Use Cases, including: Magic Quadrant reports are a culmination of rigorous, fact-based research in specific markets, providing a wide-angle view of the relative positions of the providers in markets where growth is high, and provider differentiation is distinct. Providers are positioned into four quadrants: Leaders, Challengers, Visionaries and Niche Players. The research enables businesses to get the most from market analysis in alignment with your unique business and technology needs. To read the full Magic QuadrantTM report, access a complimentary copy here . Gartner, Magic Quadrant for Marketing Mix Modeling Solutions, Matt Wakeman , David Walters , Joseph Enever , Weicong Zhao , November 19, 2024 GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally, Magic Quadrant is a registered trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's Research & Advisory organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. About Analytic Partners Analytic Partners is the leader in Commercial Analytics, providing adaptive solutions for deeper business understanding, right-time planning and optimization for marketing and beyond. We turn data into expertise so our customers can create powerful connections with their customers and achieve commercial success. For more information, visit analyticpartners.com . Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2565668/Analytic_Partners.jpg View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/analytic-partners-recognized-as-a-leader-in-inaugural-gartner-magic-quadrant-for-marketing-mix-modeling-solutions-302314467.html SOURCE Analytic Partners

Will New Year's Eve be loud or quiet? What are the top 2025 resolutions? AP-NORC poll has answers

Phillies add depth to bullpen with 1-year deal for reliever Joe RossMartinez had gone eight matches since last finding the back of the net against Venezia on November 3 but after Alessandro Bastoni opened the scoring in the 54th minute, the Argentina international struck in Sardinia. The Inter captain took his tally against Cagliari to 10 goals in as many games after 71 minutes before Hakan Calhanoglu capped an excellent night for the visitors from the penalty spot a few moments later. This moment >>> #ForzaInter #CagliariInter pic.twitter.com/aZwbAZvRVI — Inter ⭐⭐ (@Inter_en) December 28, 2024 Inter’s fifth-successive league victory led to them temporarily leapfrogging Atalanta, who reclaimed top spot but saw their lead cut to a single point following a 1-1 draw at Lazio. Gian Piero Gasperini’s side were grateful for a point in the end after falling behind to Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s first-half strike, only drawing level with two minutes remaining thanks to Marco Brescianini. Lautaro Valenti’s last-gasp strike condemned rock-bottom Monza to a 10th defeat in 18 matches as Parma edged a 2-1 victory, while Genoa defeated Empoli by the same scoreline.

If you’re thinking about relocating to , you’re not alone. According to a , nearly 25% of homebuyers over 55 are packing up and looking for a new spot to enjoy their golden years. Retirees are searching for “affordability, quality of life and tax perks,” according to , the director of the estates division at Aaron Kirman Group. While there are plenty of reasons to downsize and move for , Charlie said one of the leading choices is a change of scenery. “As a realtor who’s helped countless clients find their dream homes, I know that for many, retirement is the ultimate chapter where location really matters,” he noted. Here are the top five cities retirees are flocking to, per Charlie, and . Known for its rich historical roots, love of sports, Philly cheesesteaks, and, of course, the timeless “Rocky” film series, Pennsylvania is deeply embedded in American culture. Now, it’s becoming a popular choice for retirement. “Pennsylvania might not be the first place that comes to mind for retirees, but Allentown is turning heads,” said Charlie. “Thanks to a revitalized downtown and Pennsylvania’s policy of not taxing retirement income, it’s a practical and attractive option. “The city has big-city perks with small-town prices, which is a combo that’s hard to beat. Retire here, and you’ll have more in your pocket for those Eagles tickets — or maybe just a nice weekend in the Poconos.” Situated on the Kanawha River, Charleston has an alluring quaintness, a vibrant music scene and a newly revamped downtown area with cool art galleries, chic boutiques and exciting new restaurants and breweries. The city also offers affordable housing and lower property taxes, per Charlie, which are just a couple of reasons why retirees are heading to the city. “Charleston is all about keeping your budget intact while offering small-town vibes and access to outdoor adventures,” he explained. With the median sale price of $184,333, as reported by Zillow, and with taxes on Social Security benefits being phased out, the city is a financial win for retirees, according to Charlie. “This is the kind of place where your dollar goes further — so, you can splurge on a new fishing rod or that RV you’ve been eyeing.” With a population of less than 12,000, Fredericksburg might be small in size, but it’s filled with reasons retirees are moving there. “Wine, culture and no state income tax — Fredericksburg is where retirement dreams get a little fancy,” Charlie explained. “The median monthly housing cost is $1,254, making it affordable for those who want a bit of flair without breaking the bank.” He continued, explaining that “Texas Hill Country is the new ‘it’ spot for retirees, with Fredericksburg at the top of the list. Bonus: it’s the only place where you can tour vineyards and buy cowboy boots in the same afternoon.” Located between Knoxville and the western edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Maryville, Tennessee, is luring retirees in with its great perks. “Maryville is where Southern charm meets smart financial planning,” Charlie said. “With no state income tax and a property tax rate of just 0.62%, it’s a no-brainer for retirees who want to stretch their savings.” “It’s perfect for retirees who want peace, quiet and a backyard that doubles as a postcard,” Charlie added. It’s not the cheapest option, with a median home price of around $833,333, but, as Charlie pointed out, “retirees with the means to splurge love it for the endless golf courses, resort-style amenities and outdoor lifestyle.” He added, “Arizona’s low state tax rates help soften the financial blow, and with [over] 300 days of sunshine a year, you might even forget about the cost.” For retirees who want to pick up and live somewhere else while stretching their income without compromising their lifestyle, it can be done. “These cities show that retirement is no longer just about settling down, it’s about leveling up,” said Charlie. “Whether my clients are looking for low taxes, a lower cost of living or just a place to enjoy their hobbies, there’s something here for everyone.” This article originally appeared on :Azerbaijan’s President claims plane that crashed was shot at from RussiaFaisalabad Literary Festival ended on a high note with powerful performance of Ajoka’s Bala King. The biting political satire was well received by a full Nusrat Fateh Ali auditorium and was given a prolonged applause. Written by Shahid Nadeem and originally directed by Ajoka icon Madeeha Gauhar, the play revolved around a gangster from inner city of Lahore who enters politics and goes to the top with a combination of bribery, intimidation and propaganda. Bala King was played by Usman Raaj and other cast included Naseem Abbas, Mohammad Qaiser, Muzammil Shabir, Azka Latif, Haifa Ibrahim, Shehzad Sadiq, Shujaat Haider, Bilal Mughal, Rabeel, Bilal Hassan, , jazib, Meesam, Luke, Anish, Hammad, Ahmad and Kaif. Live musin was presented by Naseem Abbas, Kanwal Christopher and Thomas Yousaf. Speaking on the occasion Ajoka director Shahid Nadeem said the play was a warning for the people to resist gangsters and goons becoming political leaders.(PRNewsfoto/Heron Therapeutics, Inc.) SAN DIEGO , Dec. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Heron Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: HRTX) ("Heron" or the "Company"), a commercial-stage biotechnology company, announced today the relocation of the Company's headquarters from San Diego, California to Cary, North Carolina , effective January 1, 2025 . A majority of Heron's Management Team and corporate employees work from the Cary office, which is near the Research Triangle Park ("RTP"), one of the most prominent high-tech research and development parks in the United States . The growing biotech community in Cary and its surrounding areas provides ample space for growth and expansion. "We are excited to move our headquarters to Cary, North Carolina , which represents a significant milestone in Heron's journey," said Craig Collard , Chief Executive Officer of Heron. "This move will not only strengthen our ability to support our employees by centralizing our operations and resources, but also positions us in an excellent location from which we can continue making strategic partnerships as we growing our existing portfolio focused on improving the lives of patients in the acute and oncology care settings. This is an exciting chapter for Heron, and we look forward to the continued success and partnerships that lie ahead." The new address for Heron's corporate headquarters is 100 Regency Forest Drive, Suite 300, Cary, NC 27518. About Heron Therapeutics, Inc. Heron Therapeutics, Inc. is a commercial-stage biotechnology company focused on improving the lives of patients by developing and commercializing therapeutic innovations that improve medical care. Our advanced science, patented technologies, and innovative approach to drug discovery and development have allowed us to create and commercialize a portfolio of products that aim to advance the standard-of-care for acute care and oncology patients. For more information, visit www.herontx.com . Forward-looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Heron cautions readers that forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations and assumptions as of the date of this news release and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Therefore, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are set forth in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and in our other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including under the caption "Risk Factors." Forward-looking statements reflect our analysis only on their stated date, and Heron takes no obligation to update or revise these statements except as may be required by law. Investor Relations and Media Contact: Ira Duarte Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer Heron Therapeutics, Inc. iduarte@herontx.com 858-251-4400 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/heron-therapeutics-announces-corporate-headquarters-relocation-to-cary-north-carolina-302338528.html SOURCE Heron Therapeutics, Inc.

Lautaro Martinez ends goal drought as Inter keep pressure on Serie A leadersIn Pictures: Politics frames the debate as Ireland holds five ballots in 2024

PM looks to ‘brighter future’ at Christmas and ‘wishes for peace in Middle East’roulette yes or no 。

Tunisian trailblazer Ons Jabeur showcased her exceptional skills and unique playing style at the Kremlin Cup in Moscow, where she delivered a masterclass performance to claim the title. Jabeur's all-court game, creative shot-making, and strategic brilliance mesmerized the crowds and left her opponents struggling to find answers to her array of weapons. Her victory at the Kremlin Cup highlighted her status as one of the most exciting and innovative players on the WTA tour and earned her widespread recognition for her outstanding achievements throughout the season.However, others suggest that Nvidia's situation may be more complex and connected to the broader geopolitical tensions between the United States and China. As the trade war between the two superpowers intensifies, technology companies are increasingly caught in the crossfire, facing restrictions on doing business with Chinese firms and heightened scrutiny of their strategic investments. Nvidia's proposed acquisition of Arm Holdings, which has close ties to Chinese tech companies, has raised red flags in Washington and fueled suspicions about potential national security risks.

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R alph Taylor, a homegrown leader in Caribbean tourism and hospitality, declared that the three critical sectors of entrepreneurship, tourism, and youth will shape the Caribbean’s future and urgently require a collective focus. In a recent speech coinciding with the acceptance of an honorary Doctorate of Laws (LLD) from The University of the West Indies (The UWI) at Cave Hill Campus in his native Barbados, Taylor praised the university’s focus on teaching entrepreneurship. At the same time, he proposed placing greater emphasis on developing realistic business projects, especially for at-risk youth. Asserting that the youth entrepreneurship ecosystem ought to be leveraged as strategically as possible, Taylor highlighted the various stakeholders involved: government, the private sector, nonprofits, national youth representatives, media and, most importantly, families. He urged the university to lead the process through its entrepreneurship program and the Cave Hill School of Business and Management. Taylor stated that this approach could yield significant economic benefits for the country, local communities, and the university, including economic development, diversification, job creation, establishment of viable new businesses, successful products, and an enhancement of university income and prestige. Taylor is a pioneer in the all-inclusive resort concept in Barbados and currently serves as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Arcadia Hotels & Resorts, parent company of The Soco Hotel in Barbados and The Soco House in St Lucia. Lauding the university’s success and international recognition for its tourism and hospitality program, Taylor suggested it was time for The UWI to take the next step and build a prestigious resort on the University’s Cave Hill campus overlooking the Bridgetown Port, which could be staffed by students. Cornell University in the United States, rated the world’s best tourism university, owns a hotel which is run by students. You Might Be Interested In A ‘very good’ year for tourism, says Symmonds Cruise visitors make rounds in The City South coast restaurants woo diners back Taylor suggested a similar hospitality initiative would enhance Barbados’ tourism profile while better preparing graduates for the workforce. It would also provide students the opportunity to balance academics with practical experience, making them more well-rounded and competent for the challenging but rewarding world of hospitality. Academics visiting for conferences and meetings, travelers seeking a unique experience, and students from around the world would be the key market for this initiative. This model would position the university program in a different space, ensuring that the region develops, recruits and deploys its best thinkers and the most competent leaders in tourism and hospitality management. “I think this is necessary if we are to be globally competitive and among the leaders in tourism and hospitality worldwide,” he stated. Dealing with at-risk youth across the Caribbean, he averred, was both urgent and deeply complex as rising levels of youth violence impose devastating effects on families and communities. “This violence, often rooted in economic disenfranchisement, social inequality, and a lack of opportunities, threatens our fragile tourism ecosystem and the ability to maintain our sterling global reputation.” Taylor called for policies, strategies, plans, and practical programs to reintegrate these youths into mainstream society as productive citizens, whether through employment or entrepreneurship. He challenged the region’s private sector to come forward and make meaningful contributions to assist in resolving the problem of youth crime and violence. Pointing to the research and work of the University’s Institute of Criminal Justice and Security as a step in the right direction, he urged The UWI to go deeper to better integrate with the wider society and community groups. He encouraged further community-based studies to get to the root of the growing youth deviance and violence, and to work collaboratively with social partners in finding solutions to the problem. Taylor asserted that a democratic civic university actively partners with its surrounding community to implement a curriculum aimed at improving residents’ lives. He emphasized that focusing on positive change and community betterment benefits not only the local population but also enhances the university’s academic offerings and overall success. (PR)When John, a young man living in the bustling city of New York, decided to upgrade his laundry routine by purchasing a small Swan washing machine online, he could have never anticipated the wild turn of events that awaited him upon delivery.

'Awful, horrific nightmare': Wodonga man on ice bender jailed for mowing down teen

ST. SIMONS ISLAND, Ga. (AP) — Maverick McNealy finally became a winner on the final tournament of his fifth year on the PGA Tour, hitting 6-iron to 5 feet for birdie on the 18th hole at Sea Island for a 2-under 68 and a one-shot victory in the RSM Classic. He picked the right time to end nine holes without a birdie, even as so many others were making them to create a four-way tie for the lead. The victory came in his 134th start as a pro, and it sends him to Maui to start the year at The Sentry and to the Masters in April for the first time. Daniel Berger missed a 20-foot birdie attempt on the 18th that preceded McNealy's winner. He tied for second with Nico Echavarria and Florida State sophomore Luke Clanton, both of whom missed par putts from inside 8 feet on the final hole that created the four-way tie. Berger got a small consolation prize, moving inside the top 125 to keep a full PGA Tour card for 2025 when the fields will be smaller and only the top 100 will keep cards. Henrik Norlander, who was No. 126 in the FedEx Cup last year, had a 63-68 weekend and joined Berger as the two players who moved into the top 125. For Joel Dahmen, it was a matter of staying there. He was at No. 124 coming into the final tournament, had to make a 5-foot par putt just to make the cut on the number and then delivered a tee-to-green clinic — along with holing a 113-yard sand wedge for eagle early in his round — for a closing 64. It was enough to stay at No. 124 with nine points to spare. “Two of the biggest pressure moments of my career I showed up, and I can take that going forward,” Dahmen said. Clanton was a shot away from joining Nick Dunlap as amateur winners on the PGA Tour this year. Clanton, who has taken over as the top-ranked amateur in the world, now has two runner-up finishes and four top 10s in the seven PGA Tour starts the last five months. He had the look of a winner, especially with McNealy stuck in neutral, when he poured in birdie putts on the 14th and 16th holes to tie for the lead. But he tugged his approach to the 18th into bunker, blasted out nicely to 7 feet and stooped over in disbelief when he missed his par putt and had to settle for a 66 . “It’s going to be a tough one to definitely take, for sure, after bogeying the last,” Clanton said. “But I think it’s proven to me that out here I can win, so I’ll be training for that.” Echavarria, who won in Japan a month ago, had not made a bogey all day until going long on the 18th, chipping to 9 feet and catching the lip with his par putt. Michael Thorbjornsen was poised to move into the top 125 until he pulled his approach into the water on the par-5 15th hole and made bogey, closing with three pars for a 69. He tied for eighth and finished at No. 129. Thorbjornsen still has a full card next year from being No. 1 in PGA Tour University, but his status won't be as high. McNealy, son of Sun Microsystems co-founder Scott McNealy, had been doing some of his best work outside the ropes, particularly effecting a change in FedEx Cup points distribution to make it more equitable. Missing was a victory, and this one came down to the wire. He went out in 33 and led by two going to the back nine, and then it became a grind. He holed a 15-foot par putt from the fringe on the 11th to stay in the lead, and saved par after going bunker-to-bunker on the 13th. But he dropped a shot with an errant drive on the 14th, and when Echavarria birdied the 15th ahead of him, McNealy was out of the lead for the first time all day. He answered at just the right time, a 6-iron that covered the flag and settled just over 5 feet away. The victory gets him into three $20 million events over the first two months of the year, along with his first trip to the Masters. AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golfLooking ahead, the outlook for China's foreign trade remains positive, albeit with continued challenges and uncertainties. The country's strong economic fundamentals, robust manufacturing capabilities, and growing digital economy provide a solid foundation for sustained growth in foreign trade. By continuing to leverage multi-party efforts, strategic initiatives, and international cooperation, China's foreign trade sector can overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and end the year on a stable note.

Wall Street shrugs off weak data as Big Tech stocks rally

Rico Carty, who won the 1970 NL batting title when he hit a major league-best .366 for the Atlanta Braves, has died. He was 85. Major League Baseball , the players’ association and the Braves paid tribute to Carty on social media on Sunday. A family friend told Listín Diario — a newspaper in Carty’s native Dominican Republic — that he died Saturday night in an Atlanta hospital. “Carty was one of the first groundbreaking Latino stars in the major leagues, and he established himself as a hero to millions in his native Dominican Republic, his hometown of San Pedro de Macoris, and the city of Atlanta, where he was a beloved fan favorite,” the players' association said in its statement . The Braves said Carty left an indelible mark on the organization. “While his on-field accomplishments will never be forgotten, his unforgettable smile and generous nature will be sorely missed,” the team said in its statement. Carty made his big league debut with the Braves in September 1963. He batted .330 with 22 homers and 88 RBIs in his first full season in 1964, finishing second to Dick Allen in voting for NL Rookie of the Year. The Braves moved from Milwaukee to Atlanta after the 1965 season, and Carty got the franchise's first hit in its new home on April 12, 1966, against Pittsburgh. Carty had his best year in 1970, batting .366 with 25 homers and a career-best 101 RBIs. He started the All-Star Game after he was elected as a write-in candidate, joining Willie Mays and Hank Aaron in the NL outfield. Carty batted .299 with 204 homers and 890 RBIs over 15 years in the majors, also playing for Cleveland, Toronto, Oakland, Texas and the Chicago Cubs. He retired after the 1979 season. AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLBPresident-elect Donald Trump said Wednesday that he has chosen Keith Kellogg, a highly decorated retired three-star general, to serve as his special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg, who is one of the architects of a staunchly conservative policy book that lays out an "America First" national security agenda for the incoming administration, will come into the role as Russia's invasion of Ukraine enters its third year in February. Trump made the announcement on his Truth Social account, and said "He was with me right from the beginning! Together, we will secure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH, and Make America, and the World, SAFE AGAIN!" Kellogg, a retired Army lieutenant general who has long been Trump's top adviser on defense issues, served as national security adviser to Vice President Mike Pence, was chief of staff of the National Security Council and then stepped in as an acting security adviser for Trump after Michael Flynn resigned. As special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Kellogg will have to navigate an increasingly untenable war between the two nations. The Biden administration has begun urging Ukraine to quickly increase the size of its military by drafting more troops and revamping its mobilization laws to allow for the conscription of troops as young as 18. The White House has pushed more than $56 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the start of Russia's February 2022 invasion and expects to send billions more to Kyiv before Biden leaves office in less than months. Trump has criticized the billions that the Biden administration has poured into Ukraine. Washington has recently stepped up weapons shipments and has forgiven billions in loans provided to Kyiv. The incoming Republican president has said he could end the war in 24 hours, comments that appear to suggest he would press Ukraine to surrender territory that Russia now occupies. As a co-chairman of the American First Policy Institute's Center for American Security, Kellogg wrote several of the chapters in the group's policy book. The book, like the Heritage Foundation's "Project 2025," is a move to lay out a Trump national security agenda and avoid the mistakes of 2016 when he entered the White House largely unprepared. Kellogg in April wrote that "bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close will require strong, America First leadership to deliver a peace deal and immediately end the hostilities between the two warring parties." Kellogg was a character in multiple Trump investigations dating to his first term. He was among the administration officials who listened in on the July 2019 call between Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy in which Trump prodded his Ukrainian counterpart to pursue investigations into the Bidens. The call, which Kellogg would later say did not raise any concerns on his end, was at the center of the first of two House impeachment cases against Trump, who was acquitted by the Senate both times. On Jan. 6, 2021, hours before pro-Trump rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol, Kellogg, who was then Pence's national security adviser, listened in on a heated call in which Trump told his vice president to object or delay the certification in Congress of President Joe Biden 's victory. He later told House investigators that he recalled Trump saying to Pence words to the effect of: "You're not tough enough to make the call." ___ Baldor reported from Washington. AP writer Eric Tucker in Washington contributed to this report.

‘My father stayed to defend his people’: Jimmy Lai’s son condemns ‘show trial’ in Hong Kongyes or no roulette 。

Furthermore, staying hydrated and consuming hot beverages such as tea, coffee, or soup can help warm the body from the inside out. Warm drinks not only provide comfort but also help regulate body temperature and keep you feeling toasty during the cold weather.Researchers have found how frontotemporal dementia (FTD) fundamentally alters a person’s capacity for empathy, revealing new insights into a condition that can strike people as young as 40. Symptoms typically start between the ages of 40 and 65. However, it can also occur in younger and older adults, and men and women are equally at risk. Researchers Lindberg from Karolinska Institutet and Alexander Santillo from Lund University analyzed the brain activity of 28 diagnosed FTD patients using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), a common, noninvasive type of brain imaging used to measure brain activity by detecting changes associated with blood flow, and 28 healthy controls. Their examination focused on patient reactions to images of hands being pierced by needles, a stimulus expected to activate brain regions associated with processing pain and suffering. Patients with bvFTD had reduced responses in the brain areas involved in processing empathy. Lindberg emphasized that the new insights into brain activity could enhance understanding of this complex disease. “This captures a key symptom in patients, and with a lack of empathy, it naturally becomes more difficult to act socially. So, it can affect the judgement [sic] of whether to be cared for at home, for example,” he noted in the press release.The decision to offer Salah a new contract reflects Liverpool's recognition of his importance to the team and their desire to ensure he remains a vital part of their plans for years to come. By securing Salah's future at the club, Liverpool has sent a strong message to their rivals that they are serious contenders for silverware and are not willing to let go of their key assets easily.

Arsenal's performance in recent matches has raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike. While they have shown flashes of brilliance in certain games, their overall goal-scoring record from open play leaves much to be desired. This lack of offensive prowess has not only resulted in dropped points but has also raised questions about the team's ability to compete at the highest level.

The plummeting oil prices can be largely attributed to the ongoing global economic slowdown and the decrease in demand for oil due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The reduction in economic activities, travel restrictions, and lockdown measures in various countries have resulted in a sharp decline in oil consumption, leading to an oversupply situation in the oil market.

The Canadian Armed Forces Recruitment Crisis: Structural Challenges and Political Solutions The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are in the midst of a recruitment and retention crisis, one that threatens not just Canada’s security but also its standing with allies like the United States and NATO. With approximately 12,000 unfilled positions—16% of its target strength of 71,500 regular members—the military is struggling to maintain basic operational capacity. This shortfall, compounded by outdated equipment, rising attrition, and a lack of political urgency, reveals deep structural flaws. The stakes are high, and the question is not just what should be done, but whether Canada’s political leaders are willing and able to do it.In conclusion, the mysterious Wall Street funds that have strategically positioned themselves in the Chinese market have reaped significant rewards, showcasing the potential for lucrative investments in China. With the projected rise in the MSCI China Index by 2025, foreign investors are optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead in the ever-expanding Chinese market. As the global economy continues to be shaped by dynamic market forces, the allure of Chinese assets remains strong, attracting the attention of savvy investors looking to capitalize on the growth potential of the world's second-largest economy.