100 free casino slot games Arizona man arrested for alleged involvement in violent online terror networksA search for a convicted murderer in a California town has put residents on edge, with schools closing and Christmas events being postponed Cesar Hernandez, who was sentenced in 2019 to 80 years to life with the possibility of parole for first-degree murder, escaped Monday morning shortly after arriving at the Kern County courthouse in Delano, a city of around 50,000 in central California. As of Thursday, he had still not been found. He was being transported to appear in court after pleading no contest to manufacturing a weapon and possessing alcohol or drugs in prison when he evaded staff and jumped out of the van, officials said. “Hernandez is considered dangerous,” Delano police said in a social media post. “If you see him, do not approach.” Cesar Guzmán, 32, was only blocks away at his barber shop from the intersection where Hernandez escaped. It’s been the “number one topic at the shop” since. “Everyday we talk about it,” Guzmán said. “The clients are, they’re scared because they haven’t found him. We’re really close to where it happened.” Delano has been inundated with a heavy law enforcement presence since Hernandez’s escape, with police knocking on doors and helicopters whirring overhead. Guzmán said it’s the first time something like this has happened in the town, where he has lived his whole life. Several local schools locked down Monday, and they remained closed through Thursday as the search continued, local school districts posted on Facebook. The city postponed its tree-lighting ceremony originally scheduled for Wednesday, and the Delano Chamber of Commerce delayed its annual Christmas parade scheduled for Thursday night. Hernandez remaining at large puts a damper on the festivities, which Guzmán and his family have attended every year. “Honestly, now we’re kind of like, ‘How can he get away from them? What the heck happened?’" Guzmán said. Hernandez, 34, was convicted of shooting a man after leaving a bar in south Los Angeles, according to appellate court filings. He had gotten into a “heated argument” with his girlfriend at the bar earlier that night and was looking for her after she left. The victim was at the bar but did not have contact with either Hernandez or his girlfriend, the filings said. As the man drove away from the bar in his pickup truck, Hernandez was seen following him in his car before getting out to shoot him. It's unclear from the filings what motivated the shooting. Hernandez was last seen wearing an orange top and pants. He is 5 feet, 5 inches tall, weighs about 160 pounds, and has brown eyes and black hair. He was transferred from Los Angeles County in June 2019. Anyone who sees Hernandez or has knowledge of his location is asked to contact law enforcement or call 911. On the other side of the country, another search was underway for the man who gunned down United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York on Monday. Police were following tips related to his whereabouts, including searching two hostels where the man may have stayed. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.It's Taylor Swift 's birthday ... and among the thousands sending her well wishes was none other than her boyfriend's employer, the NFL!!! Travis Kelce 's league cut a TikTok video on Thursday to celebrate Swift's 35th trip around the sun ... and it's adorable as hell. Waiting for your permission to load TikTok Post. Check it out -- the 31-second clip features a bunch of highlights of Swift at Arrowhead Stadium ... as well as some mushy moments between her and her man on the "Eras" tour. So far, the Swifties are eating up -- it's only been posted to the NFL's social media page for about five hours, but it's already got 1 MILLION views. Most of the comments are praising the NFL for the reel -- with some writing it made them cry!! Of course, the NFL has plenty of reason to give thanks to Taylor on her big day -- considering even Roger Goodell has admitted she's impacted the league's viewership in a very positive way. Fans better get used to more coverage of her from here too ... the "Eras" tour is now over -- which means Swift will have plenty of free time to be in front of a camera catching her man on gridirons for the foreseeable future.November 30, 1967, stands as a defining moment in Pakistan’s political history – a day that reshaped the nation’s destiny. On this pivotal day, the country took a decisive turn toward empowering its people, as Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, a visionary leader, pledged to fight for the rights of the masses. He established a political party in Lahore that significantly transformed Pakistan’s political landscape: the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). The PPP was born out of Bhutto’s unwavering commitment to amplifying the voices of ordinary Pakistanis. Its mission was clear: to establish a government that championed the rights of the people, not the elite. With a foundation rooted in social justice, economic equality, and political freedom, the PPP quickly became the beacon of hope for a nation yearning for change. Even before the party’s formation, Bhutto had captured the imagination of millions across the country. For the first time since the era of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Liaquat Ali Khan, the people found a leader who stood undeterred, ready to fight for their rights. His call resonated from Kashmir to Karachi, Gilgit to Gwadar, galvanizing the public and propelling the PPP to prominence as the most popular political force in West Pakistan. The 1970 general elections cemented this status, with the party securing the majority of seats in the region. However, just a year later, the nation was plunged into despair. The separation of East Pakistan, coupled with a devastating war with India, left Pakistan reeling. In these trying times, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s dynamic leadership became the country’s saving grace. With courage and foresight, he rallied the nation, stabilized the economy, and secured peace through the Simla Agreement, which brought back thousands of war prisoners and reclaimed occupied territory from India. Bhutto also united a fragmented nation by delivering the consensus-based Constitution of 1973 and elevated Pakistan’s global standing by hosting the 1974 Islamic Summit Conference. The PPP was born out of Bhutto’s unwavering commitment to amplifying the voices of ordinary Pakistanis. Among his greatest achievements was initiating Pakistan’s nuclear program, a bold step that cemented the country’s defence capabilities. Despite immense international pressure and threats, Bhutto stood firm, declaring, “We will eat grass, but we will make the bomb.” These visionary actions, however, made him a target for global powers. In 1977, a conspiracy culminated in General Zia-ul-Haq’s coup, followed by Bhutto’s controversial trial and execution – a miscarriage of justice later acknowledged by Pakistan’s Supreme Court. Zia and his allies believed Bhutto’s martyrdom would dismantle the PPP and erase his legacy. But they underestimated the resilience of the movement he inspired. Bhutto’s ideals lived on – in the hearts of the people, the resolve of party workers, and the leadership of his family. His courageous daughter, Benazir Bhutto, rose to carry the torch of democracy and the fight for the people’s rights. Benazir’s journey was fraught with challenges. During Zia’s oppressive regime, the Bhutto family and PPP workers faced relentless persecution – a dark chapter in the nation’s history. Yet, neither imprisonment nor exile could break her resolve. Under her leadership, the PPP returned to power in 1988, and Benazir became Pakistan’s first female Prime Minister, earning global acclaim and breaking barriers. During her tenure, Benazir championed numerous reforms, focusing on women’s rights, healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. She initiated economic programs to uplift the nation, but her path was never easy. Political conspiracies and entrenched opposition led to her government’s dismissal in 1990. Undeterred, she returned to power in 1993, once again taking bold steps for the welfare of the people. By 1996, mounting political crises forced Benazir into exile, while her husband, Asif Ali Zardari, endured imprisonment and torture. Despite these hardships, the PPP remained steadfast. During General Pervez Musharraf’s era, Benazir emerged as a formidable voice against dictatorship, advocating for constitutional restoration and civil liberties. Despite facing grave threats, she returned to Pakistan on October 18, 2007, to a hero’s welcome, reminiscent of her historic 1986 homecoming in Lahore. Tragically, her courage led to her martyrdom on December 27, 2007, after an election rally in Rawalpindi. Following her untimely death, Asif Ali Zardari assumed PPP’s leadership. Under his stewardship, the party won the 2008 elections and introduced transformative measures for political stability. As President, Zardari championed the 18th Amendment, ensuring parliamentary sovereignty, and provincial autonomy, and fostering reconciliation. Landmark initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the Benazir Income Support Program, and energy projects like the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline were hallmarks of his tenure, gaining international recognition. Today, the PPP’s mantle is carried by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, a leader embodying his family’s legacy. Bilawal’s vision is evident in his initiatives, particularly in Sindh, where transformative programs like free cardiac care at NICVD, cancer treatment through CyberKnife technology, liver transplants in Gambat, and housing for flood victims have changed countless lives. His dedication to public welfare is reflected in initiatives like the Benazir Kisan Card, free solar systems for impoverished households, and extensive healthcare reforms. The Pakistan Peoples Party’s history is a story of unwavering commitment, sacrifice, and service for the people. From Zulfikar Ali Bhutto to Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, each leader has exemplified a dedication to Pakistan’s progress, democracy, and the rights of its citizens. The PPP Foundation Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made, the milestones achieved, and the promise to continue striving for a brighter future. The writer is Advisor SDGs Task Force Sindh and former MPA Sindh.

Democrats look to governors to lead them to promised landThe interim government has recently appointed new vice-chancellors and other top officials to public universities mostly on political considerations -- something that echoes the appointment practices of successive governments. At least 30 VCs out of 47, along with 18 Pro-VCs and treasurers from 40 appointments, have connections to teachers' organisations affiliated with the BNP and Jamaat. There are 55 public universities in the country with about 10.5 lakh students. "The government made these appointments in the face of continuous lobbying and pressures from the political parties," said Samina Lutfa, associate professor at Dhaka University. As there were experienced individuals in the advisory council, there were high hopes for positive changes, particularly in educational institutions, which have been struggling due to politicisation. "As this government came to power with the mandate of students and citizens, we expected them to take bold steps -- beyond lobbying and any pressures -- to bring real changes to institutions. Unfortunately, we haven't seen such initiatives," Samina said. THE APPOINTMENTS The government appointed Prof Kamrul Ahsan as the new VC of Jahangirnagar University. He was the president of the pro-BNP-backed teachers' organisation Jatiyatabadi Shikkhak Forum at JU before his appointment. His colleague Prof Nurul Islam, who is the general secretary of the same committee, has been appointed Pro-VC of the National University. Rashedul Islam, current general secretary of the pro-BNP teachers' forum at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, has been appointed VC of Kurigram Agricultural University. M Yeaqub Ali, member of the pro-BNP teachers' forum, has been appointed as the pro-VC of Islamic University. Leaders of the DU pro-BNP teachers' panel have been awarded top positions in several other universities. For example, DU Professor ABM Obaidul Islam, a former convener of the BNP-backed teachers' panel, has been appointed VC of Bangladesh Open University. The current convener of the forum, Professor Lutfor Rahman, was appointed Pro-VC of the National University. The newly appointed VC of Rajshahi University (RU), Prof Saleh Hasan Naqib, had ties to the RU pro-BNP teachers' forum. He used to attend programmes arranged by the forum, but resigned in August. However, RU VC Prof Naqib said, "I was barely a member. They [the forum] forcibly enlisted me as a member, but I was not actively involved in any of their meetings. "Besides, university teachers may hold political ideologies. My work primarily focuses on students, and I prefer to remain outside of political involvement. I consider myself somewhat independent-minded, so political influence wouldn't affect my work at all." At Khulna University, Md Rezaul Karim, former president of a pro-BNP organisation, was appointed as the VC. Contacted, Prof Rezaul said he had resigned from the association. "Even if I were involved with such an association, it wouldn't affect any of my administrative activities because. "The affiliation was solely for managing teachers' elections. Everything else we do is for the benefit of students and teachers on the campus. We hope it won't affect any kind of appointment or any other activities," he added. At Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), AK Fazlul Haque Bhuiyan, was appointed as the VC, who was the president of the BNP-backed Teachers Forum at the university. MANY FROM DU Several DU faculty members having ties to BNP-Jamaat-backed panels have secured the topmost positions at other universities. For instance, Professor ASM Amanullah, who contested for the Dean of Sociology at DU in 2022, has now been appointed VC of the National University. Similarly, Professor Haidar Ali who ran for the dean post of Engineering and Technology faculty, has been appointed VC of Comilla University. Three teachers who participated in the 2022 DU senate election from the pro-BNP "white panel" were appointed to VCs or Pro-VC roles -- Prof. Nakib M Nasrullah, as VC at Islamic University, Prof Dilip Kumar Barua as VC of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman University and Prof Mamun Ahmed as DU Pro-VC. Of the eight newly appointed treasurers, seven are connected to pro-BNP or pro-Jamaat bodies. For example, Prof M Abdur Rab, JU treasurer, is known as a "white panel" member. Some appointments also appear to have been influenced by personal recommendations. In August, JU Professor Ismot Ara, a relative of Education Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud, recommended four teachers for VC positions at JU. Although none of them were chosen, two were given key roles at Sheikh Hasina University in Netrokona. Professor Khandaker M Ashraful Munim, one of the recommended candidates, became VC and Professor Anichha Parvin became treasurer. Professor Ismot Ara is also a syndicate member at Sheikh Hasina University. REACTION FROM EDUCATIONISTS Samina Lutfa expressed concern that the government's move to appoint VCs on political considerations would not bring any meaningful improvements to universities. "It does not reflect the expectations of the July-August uprising either." Teachers who are not involved in politics, lacking the time or connections to lobby, are often excluded from key positions. "Considering these factors, in my opinion, the government appears very fragile. This fragility is evident in its tendency to sway under pressure or demands, shifting from one side to another. Such inconsistency is quite unexpected," she added. Contacted, prominent intellectual and writer Abul Kashem Fazlul Haq said, "Given the overall situation, I don't think that this interim government solely relies on or bends to any political party so far." The interim government has recently appointed new vice-chancellors and other top officials to public universities mostly on political considerations -- something that echoes the appointment practices of successive governments. At least 30 VCs out of 47, along with 18 Pro-VCs and treasurers from 40 appointments, have connections to teachers' organisations affiliated with the BNP and Jamaat. There are 55 public universities in the country with about 10.5 lakh students. "The government made these appointments in the face of continuous lobbying and pressures from the political parties," said Samina Lutfa, associate professor at Dhaka University. As there were experienced individuals in the advisory council, there were high hopes for positive changes, particularly in educational institutions, which have been struggling due to politicisation. "As this government came to power with the mandate of students and citizens, we expected them to take bold steps -- beyond lobbying and any pressures -- to bring real changes to institutions. Unfortunately, we haven't seen such initiatives," Samina said. THE APPOINTMENTS The government appointed Prof Kamrul Ahsan as the new VC of Jahangirnagar University. He was the president of the pro-BNP-backed teachers' organisation Jatiyatabadi Shikkhak Forum at JU before his appointment. His colleague Prof Nurul Islam, who is the general secretary of the same committee, has been appointed Pro-VC of the National University. Rashedul Islam, current general secretary of the pro-BNP teachers' forum at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, has been appointed VC of Kurigram Agricultural University. M Yeaqub Ali, member of the pro-BNP teachers' forum, has been appointed as the pro-VC of Islamic University. Leaders of the DU pro-BNP teachers' panel have been awarded top positions in several other universities. For example, DU Professor ABM Obaidul Islam, a former convener of the BNP-backed teachers' panel, has been appointed VC of Bangladesh Open University. The current convener of the forum, Professor Lutfor Rahman, was appointed Pro-VC of the National University. The newly appointed VC of Rajshahi University (RU), Prof Saleh Hasan Naqib, had ties to the RU pro-BNP teachers' forum. He used to attend programmes arranged by the forum, but resigned in August. However, RU VC Prof Naqib said, "I was barely a member. They [the forum] forcibly enlisted me as a member, but I was not actively involved in any of their meetings. "Besides, university teachers may hold political ideologies. My work primarily focuses on students, and I prefer to remain outside of political involvement. I consider myself somewhat independent-minded, so political influence wouldn't affect my work at all." At Khulna University, Md Rezaul Karim, former president of a pro-BNP organisation, was appointed as the VC. Contacted, Prof Rezaul said he had resigned from the association. "Even if I were involved with such an association, it wouldn't affect any of my administrative activities because. "The affiliation was solely for managing teachers' elections. Everything else we do is for the benefit of students and teachers on the campus. We hope it won't affect any kind of appointment or any other activities," he added. At Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), AK Fazlul Haque Bhuiyan, was appointed as the VC, who was the president of the BNP-backed Teachers Forum at the university. MANY FROM DU Several DU faculty members having ties to BNP-Jamaat-backed panels have secured the topmost positions at other universities. For instance, Professor ASM Amanullah, who contested for the Dean of Sociology at DU in 2022, has now been appointed VC of the National University. Similarly, Professor Haidar Ali who ran for the dean post of Engineering and Technology faculty, has been appointed VC of Comilla University. Three teachers who participated in the 2022 DU senate election from the pro-BNP "white panel" were appointed to VCs or Pro-VC roles -- Prof. Nakib M Nasrullah, as VC at Islamic University, Prof Dilip Kumar Barua as VC of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman University and Prof Mamun Ahmed as DU Pro-VC. Of the eight newly appointed treasurers, seven are connected to pro-BNP or pro-Jamaat bodies. For example, Prof M Abdur Rab, JU treasurer, is known as a "white panel" member. Some appointments also appear to have been influenced by personal recommendations. In August, JU Professor Ismot Ara, a relative of Education Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud, recommended four teachers for VC positions at JU. Although none of them were chosen, two were given key roles at Sheikh Hasina University in Netrokona. Professor Khandaker M Ashraful Munim, one of the recommended candidates, became VC and Professor Anichha Parvin became treasurer. Professor Ismot Ara is also a syndicate member at Sheikh Hasina University. REACTION FROM EDUCATIONISTS Samina Lutfa expressed concern that the government's move to appoint VCs on political considerations would not bring any meaningful improvements to universities. "It does not reflect the expectations of the July-August uprising either." Teachers who are not involved in politics, lacking the time or connections to lobby, are often excluded from key positions. "Considering these factors, in my opinion, the government appears very fragile. This fragility is evident in its tendency to sway under pressure or demands, shifting from one side to another. Such inconsistency is quite unexpected," she added. Contacted, prominent intellectual and writer Abul Kashem Fazlul Haq said, "Given the overall situation, I don't think that this interim government solely relies on or bends to any political party so far."

November 30, 1967, stands as a defining moment in Pakistan’s political history – a day that reshaped the nation’s destiny. On this pivotal day, the country took a decisive turn toward empowering its people, as Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, a visionary leader, pledged to fight for the rights of the masses. He established a political party in Lahore that significantly transformed Pakistan’s political landscape: the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). The PPP was born out of Bhutto’s unwavering commitment to amplifying the voices of ordinary Pakistanis. Its mission was clear: to establish a government that championed the rights of the people, not the elite. With a foundation rooted in social justice, economic equality, and political freedom, the PPP quickly became the beacon of hope for a nation yearning for change. Even before the party’s formation, Bhutto had captured the imagination of millions across the country. For the first time since the era of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Liaquat Ali Khan, the people found a leader who stood undeterred, ready to fight for their rights. His call resonated from Kashmir to Karachi, Gilgit to Gwadar, galvanizing the public and propelling the PPP to prominence as the most popular political force in West Pakistan. The 1970 general elections cemented this status, with the party securing the majority of seats in the region. However, just a year later, the nation was plunged into despair. The separation of East Pakistan, coupled with a devastating war with India, left Pakistan reeling. In these trying times, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s dynamic leadership became the country’s saving grace. With courage and foresight, he rallied the nation, stabilized the economy, and secured peace through the Simla Agreement, which brought back thousands of war prisoners and reclaimed occupied territory from India. Bhutto also united a fragmented nation by delivering the consensus-based Constitution of 1973 and elevated Pakistan’s global standing by hosting the 1974 Islamic Summit Conference. The PPP was born out of Bhutto’s unwavering commitment to amplifying the voices of ordinary Pakistanis. Among his greatest achievements was initiating Pakistan’s nuclear program, a bold step that cemented the country’s defence capabilities. Despite immense international pressure and threats, Bhutto stood firm, declaring, “We will eat grass, but we will make the bomb.” These visionary actions, however, made him a target for global powers. In 1977, a conspiracy culminated in General Zia-ul-Haq’s coup, followed by Bhutto’s controversial trial and execution – a miscarriage of justice later acknowledged by Pakistan’s Supreme Court. Zia and his allies believed Bhutto’s martyrdom would dismantle the PPP and erase his legacy. But they underestimated the resilience of the movement he inspired. Bhutto’s ideals lived on – in the hearts of the people, the resolve of party workers, and the leadership of his family. His courageous daughter, Benazir Bhutto, rose to carry the torch of democracy and the fight for the people’s rights. Benazir’s journey was fraught with challenges. During Zia’s oppressive regime, the Bhutto family and PPP workers faced relentless persecution – a dark chapter in the nation’s history. Yet, neither imprisonment nor exile could break her resolve. Under her leadership, the PPP returned to power in 1988, and Benazir became Pakistan’s first female Prime Minister, earning global acclaim and breaking barriers. During her tenure, Benazir championed numerous reforms, focusing on women’s rights, healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. She initiated economic programs to uplift the nation, but her path was never easy. Political conspiracies and entrenched opposition led to her government’s dismissal in 1990. Undeterred, she returned to power in 1993, once again taking bold steps for the welfare of the people. By 1996, mounting political crises forced Benazir into exile, while her husband, Asif Ali Zardari, endured imprisonment and torture. Despite these hardships, the PPP remained steadfast. During General Pervez Musharraf’s era, Benazir emerged as a formidable voice against dictatorship, advocating for constitutional restoration and civil liberties. Despite facing grave threats, she returned to Pakistan on October 18, 2007, to a hero’s welcome, reminiscent of her historic 1986 homecoming in Lahore. Tragically, her courage led to her martyrdom on December 27, 2007, after an election rally in Rawalpindi. Following her untimely death, Asif Ali Zardari assumed PPP’s leadership. Under his stewardship, the party won the 2008 elections and introduced transformative measures for political stability. As President, Zardari championed the 18th Amendment, ensuring parliamentary sovereignty, and provincial autonomy, and fostering reconciliation. Landmark initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the Benazir Income Support Program, and energy projects like the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline were hallmarks of his tenure, gaining international recognition. Today, the PPP’s mantle is carried by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, a leader embodying his family’s legacy. Bilawal’s vision is evident in his initiatives, particularly in Sindh, where transformative programs like free cardiac care at NICVD, cancer treatment through CyberKnife technology, liver transplants in Gambat, and housing for flood victims have changed countless lives. His dedication to public welfare is reflected in initiatives like the Benazir Kisan Card, free solar systems for impoverished households, and extensive healthcare reforms. The Pakistan Peoples Party’s history is a story of unwavering commitment, sacrifice, and service for the people. From Zulfikar Ali Bhutto to Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, each leader has exemplified a dedication to Pakistan’s progress, democracy, and the rights of its citizens. The PPP Foundation Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made, the milestones achieved, and the promise to continue striving for a brighter future. The writer is Advisor SDGs Task Force Sindh and former MPA Sindh.

Here's some gift ideas for the outdoorsmen -- and women -- on your listUT tuition-free program expansion praised — and questioned

Boston College’s offense had its moments on Saturday, converting 6 of 13 third downs and amassing 296 passing yards. BC caught Nebraska’s aggressive, blitzing defense with a few screens, coach Matt Rhule said, and Eagles’ quarterback Grayson James kept plays alive with timely scrambles. But Rhule said the Huskers' defense found its footing in the red zone — inside NU’s own 20 — by twice denying the Eagles points when they reached the Nebraska 9 and Nebraska 2. The Huskers, coordinated by John Butler, were trying to make BC attempt field goals. Boston College only attempted four all season, and missed its fifth try early in Saturday’s game. From thereon, BC went for its fourth downs in NU territory. It did not successfully convert one. “They missed the first one, so we felt pretty good about our opportunity — hey, they’re not going to kick one, it’ll be four downs,” Rhule said. “We knew how to address it.” Eight of BC’s drives reached Nebraska territory, producing just 13 of BC’s 15 points. “We were having trouble kicking the ball, so I didn't want to kick it,” Boston College coach Bill O’Brien said. “We were in that area where you're either going to plus-50 and punt it — which we could have done, but we're not great at that — or tried to kick a 50-yard field goal, which we're definitely not ready to do that. “I went for it on 4th down and probably put the defense in a couple tough positions. Look, Nebraska did a good job. We had trouble running the ball, had trouble scoring in the red area. We moved the ball. I think at halftime we had the time of possession, we had yardage, but didn't have the score.”Trump names Billy Long as IRS head

Consumers will be hit with another steep rise in their household and car insurance premiums this year as general insurers push revenue growth ahead of rising inflation costs. Actuarial group Finity is forecasting a 12 per cent jump in premiums this year for two of the biggest general insurance sectors – home and car insurance – based on industry statistics and recent forecasts from the industry including listed insurers like IAG and Suncorp. It says the big price rises have helped ensure that insurer’s profit margins are at the top of the curve, although that could change rapidly thanks to the volatility of climate change. The 2020 floods in northern NSW and southern Queensland provided a financial shock for insurers that is still being felt by customers across Australia. Credit: Josh Dye Rising premiums are just one of the fronts where general insurers have been coming under pressure over their actions in the $100 billion market – including an inquiry into their tardy response to flooding in Queensland and northern NSW in 2022. “The insurance sector has been under significant scrutiny, following the reviews into the devastating flood events, the challenges associated with affordability and accessibility and the media commentary on insurers’ strong financial results of the latest reporting season,” APRA’s Suzanne Smith told an insurance industry conference in October. “Consumers have now faced multiple years of substantial premium increases, driven by the rising costs of these natural disasters along with inflationary pressures, increased re-insurance costs, higher building standards and advanced technologies, to name just a few.” The soaring premiums provide a double-whammy for struggling households. The first hit is the direct cost of soaring insurance bills, the second is its outsized impact on inflation – ensuring interest rates also stay higher for longer. The cost of vehicle and household insurance has risen by $11.7 billion over three years, Finity estimates. So any suggestion that investors are profiting from customers’ financial pain is sensitive to say the least. “Profitability for the industry (last year) was towards the top end of the target range ... that was largely due to strong premium growth,” Finity principal Pravesh Ponna, says.The pollies we like to like – and the ones we love to hate

Doing business in US? Don't wait for state ruling on AI to act, warns former Senate chief of staffIn recent years, robots have metamorphosed from awkward metal contraptions into sophisticated machines with artificial intelligence capabilities. While technological advancements are remarkable, humans still find amusement in placing these robots in quirky and uncomfortable scenarios. Here are some of the most peculiar and intriguing ways we’ve utilized robots this year. Automated Poop Patrol Caleb Olson, a pet owner from Minnesota, has devised a unique solution to the age-old problem of cleaning up after dogs. Olson invented the “Poopcopter,” an autonomous robot designed to hunt down and collect dog waste. This flying marvel employs computer vision to identify droppings and uses a specially designed scoop to dispose of them, potentially raising the sanitary standards in backyards everywhere. Robot Butts Out Cigarette Litter Efforts to combat cigarette litter have led to the creation of the VERO, a four-legged vacuum robot by the Italian Institute of Technology. Designed to suck up discarded cigarette butts, each foot of the VERO is outfitted with a nozzle capable of removing this prevalent litter. If widely deployed, VERO could clean up public spaces efficiently. Empathy Experiments with Robots Marieke Wieringa, a researcher from Radboud University, conducted experiments exploring human empathy towards robots. Participants were more likely to hesitate in causing discomfort to robots that emitted distress sounds, noting a change in perception when they seemed to express emotions. Painting the Future with AI A humanoid robot named Ai-Da, armed with artistic algorithms, has ventured into painting, creating works such as a portrait dubbed “AI God.” The paintings have gained attention, fetching high bids in auctions, which reflects growing interest in the intersection of art and technology. These unusual ventures showcase the ever-expanding capabilities of robots, prompting societal reflection on their roles and our interactions with machines. The Unexpected Future of Robotics: Innovations and Insights Evolving Robotics: Exploring Key Innovations and Trends Robotics has progressed significantly, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and engineering. As robots become more integrated into everyday tasks, intriguing new capabilities and potential societal impacts emerge. Emerging Trends in Robotics 1. Innovations in Waste Management Robotics The development of the “Poopcopter” and the VERO highlights an innovative approach to tackling litter and waste management. These robots use computer vision and autonomous functionality, embodying the trend of robotics solving environmental challenges. The Poopcopter’s ability to autonomously identify and collect waste represents a new horizon in maintaining public hygiene. 2. Emotional Interactions with Robots Marieke Wieringa’s work on empathy towards robots suggests that human-robot interaction goes beyond mechanical functions. This experiment reveals how machines could evoke emotional responses and ethical considerations, presenting a new dimension in robotics – the ability to simulate human-like emotions, potentially influencing future social robots. 3. Artistic Creativity in AI-Driven Robots The humanoid artist Ai-Da exemplifies the intersection of robotics and creativity, ushering in a new era where robots contribute artistically. This could redefine art markets and challenge perceptions of creativity, as AI continues to expand its boundaries. Pros and Cons of Increased Robotic Integration # Pros: – Efficiency: Robots like VERO and Poopcopter streamline processes, increasing cleanliness and reducing labor. – Innovation: New applications, such as Ai-Da’s creative outputs, showcase the potential of robotics to enter traditionally human domains. # Cons: – Ethical Concerns: As with empathy experiments, ethical implications arise when robots appear to express emotions. – Cultural Resistance: Artistic robots challenge traditional ideas, which might face resistance from those valuing human artistry. Predictions for Robotics 1. Enhanced Public Services Robots capable of addressing public litter could be integrated into urban infrastructure, potentially transforming city hygiene dynamics. 2. Expanded Roles in Healthcare and Assistance Given their ability to evoke emotional responses, robots could support elderly or disabled individuals, improving quality of life through companionship or assistance. 3. Evolution in Creative Industries AI-driven artistic robots might become collaborators in creative industries, prompting a reevaluation of intellectual property and creativity ownership. Market Insights The robotics market is witnessing significant growth, driven by demand across sectors such as waste management, healthcare, and creative industries. As technology evolves, investment in robotic innovations is anticipated to rise, with focus areas likely including AI integration, emotional interaction capabilities, and public service support. For More Innovations Discover more about cutting-edge robotic developments and future implications by visiting the MIT Technology Review . Stay informed on the dynamic changes shaping the robotics landscape and understand their potential impacts on society.Marvel Rivals players claim Hawkeye brought Overwatch’s worst meta to Rivals