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Hezbollah 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-wars

As the semiconductor industry continues to evolve, Qualcomm QCOM has emerged as a compelling prospect for investors. While Nvidia and Broadcom often steal the spotlight, Qualcomm is quietly positioning itself for a remarkable transformation. Investment Opportunities Despite being overshadowed by industry giants, Qualcomm is making strategic moves to expand its influence. Analysts have noted the company’s strong focus on Edge AI and the PC market as a catalyst for future growth. The tech firm, a cornerstone in telecommunications since 1985, is known for its significant role in powering almost every smartphone worldwide with its advanced chips. Venturing Beyond Smartphones With the advent of 5G technology, Qualcomm is diversifying its portfolio. This shift includes targeting high-growth segments like IoT devices, connected vehicles, and industrial equipment—a strategy aimed at reducing reliance on traditional smartphone markets. Qualcomm’s innovative developments in AI-enabled chipsets and automotive technology fortify its position as a leader in next-gen connectivity solutions. Financial Highlights Despite underperformance in recent semiconductor index returns, Qualcomm remains attractive with solid dividend growth. It recently outperformed earnings expectations, reporting a $2.92 billion net income with rising revenues across various segments, such as automotive and IoT. The company’s future signaling a promising outlook and its stock market valuation presents a bargain opportunity for long-term investors. Qualcomm’s ongoing legal battle with Arm Holdings over its Nuvia acquisition introduces uncertainty but hasn’t dampened analyst enthusiasm, with many maintaining a positive outlook on the stock’s potential. The company’s advances in AI markets suggest it could emerge as a top contender come 2025. Qualcomm’s Strategic Maneuvers: Could It Be the Semiconductor Sector’s Dark Horse? As the dynamics of the semiconductor industry shift, Qualcomm emerges not just as a steadfast player but as a potential game-changer. Rivaled by high-profile companies like Nvidia and Broadcom, Qualcomm is strategically laying groundwork for a unique transformation that might catch investors and competitors off guard. Innovations and Features Qualcomm’s focus on Edge AI and its push into the PC market signals a strategic pivot towards sectors that promise exponential growth. This shift is underpinned by the company’s development of AI-enhanced chipsets, designed to improve data processing at the network’s edge rather than in centralized cloud servers, promoting quicker response times and enhanced data privacy. Furthermore, Qualcomm is pioneering advancements in automotive technology. Through its Snapdragon Digital Chassis, the company is positioning itself as a frontrunner in connected vehicle technologies. These innovations enable seamless connectivity, infotainment experiences, and advanced telematics, reinforcing its leadership in next-generation automotive solutions. Diversification Strategy With the rollout of 5G, Qualcomm is strategically diversifying beyond traditional smartphone technologies. The company is setting its sights on high-growth sectors such as the Internet of Things (IoT), connected vehicles, and industrial equipment. This diversification is a calculated move to mitigate risks associated with its traditional markets and to tap into evolving digital ecosystems. Financial Strengths and Market Analysis Qualcomm’s financial performance paints a robust picture with significant dividend growth and strong earnings results. Notably, while it has occasionally underperformed against semiconductor index benchmarks, its ability to exceed earnings expectations underscores resilience and strategic foresight. This is further amplified by a recent report of $2.92 billion in net income, bolstered by growth in automotive and IoT revenue streams. Despite the legal challenges posed by Arm Holdings over its acquisition of Nuvia, analysts remain optimistic about Qualcomm’s long-term potential. They predict that the company’s aggressive push into AI markets could see it rise as a formidable contender by 2025. Pros and Cons of Investing in Qualcomm Pros: – Strong position in 5G technology and next-gen connectivity solutions. – Significant investments in AI and expanded market reach across PCs and automotive sectors. – Solid financial performance with attractive dividend yields. Cons: – Legal uncertainties regarding intellectual property rights and acquisitions. – Competition from industry giants like Nvidia and Broadcom. – Potential volatility in semiconductor markets impacting revenues. Future Predictions Looking ahead, Qualcomm’s trajectory seems promising if current strategies unfold as planned. The company’s innovative thrust in AI and IoT combined with a robust financial outlook paints a picture of growth and potential market triumphs. It remains essential for investors to watch Qualcomm’s legal proceedings and competitive landscape closely. For more insights on Qualcomm, visit their official website .

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — A businessman with no experience in public office is taking over as mayor of Oregon’s biggest city as it embraces an entirely new system of government — one that’s so different, the City Council chambers had to be completely renovated. Portland voters last month elected Keith Wilson, a trucking company executive and founder of a nonprofit working to increase homeless shelter capacity. He ran on an ambitious pledge to end unsheltered homelessness within a year and was sworn in Thursday alongside a council expanded from five seats to 12. Portland is contending with , and a rising cost of living. Wilson, a Portland native, plans to reach his goal of ending unsheltered homelessness by increasing the number of nighttime walk-in emergency shelters in facilities such as churches and community centers. His message appeared to have resonated in a city where surveys conducted over the past few years have shown that residents view homelessness as a top issue. He ran against three outgoing City Council members. “Our city government has been reimagined, embodying the best of our innovation and values,” Wilson said on the stage of the Newmark Theater in downtown Portland after taking the oath of office. “Now it's time for Portland's new leadership to meet the moment we now face and solve the issues that prevent us from reaching our true potential.” Wilson said he will treat homelessness as a crisis. He noted the city's plans, announced earlier in the day, to open 200 overnight winter emergency shelter beds. “Tents, tarps and RVs are not places to sleep, because we will have secure shelters for everyone,” he said. , which featured 19 candidates, was thrown open when Mayor Ted Wheeler decided against seeking reelection after holding the city’s top post since 2017. Wheeler rose to national prominence in 2020 as nightly protests erupted on Portland streets and around the country in response to . The field of candidates in council races was crowded as well, with nearly 100 running for the new seats that were elected by voters in individual districts rather than citywide. The new city council sworn in Thursday “is more diverse and representative than any that came before,” Wilson said. Women make up half of the new council, which also includes multiple people of color — including the first two Asian-Americans to serve on the body. The 130-year-old City Hall was renovated for $8.3 million to accommodate the increase in members. The new dais can now seat 12 people; floor layouts were changed to create more office space; and technology, seismic and accessibility updates were added throughout the building. “Remodeling council chambers is a once-in-a-generation activity,” Maty Sauter, director of Portland's Bureau of Fleet and Facilities, told the outgoing City Council as it held its last meeting on Wednesday in the new chambers. “We've been able to reuse this 1895 facility and make it modern, contemporary and useful.” It’s going to take time for the new government to figure out which of the many changes are working, said Chris Shortell, associate professor of political science at Portland State University. In another first for City Hall, Wilson and the incoming Council members were elected under Portland's new system of . A candidate would win if they were the first choice of more than 50% of voters in the first round. Otherwise, a second round would eliminate the candidate with the fewest votes and their supporters’ votes go to their next choice. The process would repeat until someone emerges with a majority of votes. Some 34% of voters ranked Wilson as their first choice, according to final results. The new City Council will hold its first meeting in January. Claire Rush, The Associated PressAssistive Technology for Visually Impaired Market Set for Exceptional Growth from 2024 to 2032Biometrics is a key enabler for the identity management of the futureWhat Is The Administrative State?

(Reuters) – Microchip Technology lowered its third-quarter revenue forecast on Monday and announced the closure of its wafer manufacturing factory in Arizona, as the chipmaker looks to restructure under interim CEO Steve Sanghi. Microchip has been through a tumultuous few quarters, grappling with slowing orders for its automotive chips as carmakers, navigating an uncertain macro economy, clear existing inventory which they built up to avoid a supply crunch. The company now expects revenue to be close to the lower end of its previous forecast of $1.03 billion, below analysts’ expectations of $1.06 billion as per data compiled by LSEG. Shares of Microchip fell over 3.5% in extended trading after being around 3% higher at close. The company’s stock has fallen 22% so far this year. Microchip expects to shut down the Arizona facility in the September 2025 quarter and generate annual cash savings of around $90 million. “With inventory levels high and having ample capacity in place, we have decided to shut down our Tempe wafer fabrication facility that we refer to as Fab 2,” said interim CEO Sanghi, who came into the role after Ganesh Moorthy retired from the top job at the end of November. The company said the closure should help the company moderate its inventory levels beginning in the fourth quarter and will affect around 500 employees. The company said that its other factories in Oregon and Colorado have ample space for expansion and plans to transition product manufacturing from the Arizona plant to other such facilities. (Reporting by Zaheer Kachwala in Bengaluru; Editing by Krishna Chandra Eluri) Disclaimer: This report is auto generated from the Reuters news service. ThePrint holds no responsibilty for its content. var ytflag = 0;var myListener = function() {document.removeEventListener('mousemove', myListener, false);lazyloadmyframes();};document.addEventListener('mousemove', myListener, false);window.addEventListener('scroll', function() {if (ytflag == 0) {lazyloadmyframes();ytflag = 1;}});function lazyloadmyframes() {var ytv = document.getElementsByClassName("klazyiframe");for (var i = 0; i < ytv.length; i++) {ytv[i].src = ytv[i].getAttribute('data-src');}} Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );Hyderabad: Tensions within actor Mohan Babu’s family flared up again on Saturday night, after Manchu Manoj alleged sabotage by his elder brother and actor, Manchu Vishnu. In a statement, Manchu Manoj, who has been at odds with his father claimed there was a deliberate attempt to compromise his family’s safety. He alleged that on Saturday, while he was away on a shoot and his wife attended their son’s school event, his brother Vishnu Manchu along with three associates – Raj Konduru, Kiran, Vijay Reddy, and a group of bouncers – entered his house under the pretext of delivering a birthday cake for their mother. “What followed was an act of calculated sabotage. They tampered with the main generators in my home, pouring diesel mixed with sugar; a deliberate act designed to cause catastrophic failure. Late in the night, the generators malfunctioned leading to dangerous electrical fluctuations. The entire household was at risk, including my elderly mother, my nine-month-old daughter, my uncle, and my aunt,” Manchu Manoj claimed. “As Vishnu and his team left the premises, they further escalated the situation by forcibly removing the last loyal staff member from my house, leaving my family vulnerable and helpless. They also threatened my coach warning that they would harm his family if he intervened or reported the incident,” Manchu Manoj alleged. He appealed to the authorities to take swift action and hold those responsible accountable. “My only request is for the safety of my family and justice for the deliberate harm caused to us. I trust the law will prevail, and justice will be served,” his statement read.House Bill to Block DOD Contracts With China-Linked Entities

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nice88 casino games The Reds ultimately left St James’ Park with only a point after Fabian Schar snatched a 3-3 draw at the end of a pulsating encounter, but Salah’s double – his 14th and 15th goals of the season – transformed a 2-1 deficit into a 3-2 lead before the Switzerland defender’s late intervention. The 32-year-old Egypt international’s future at Anfield remains a topic of debate with his current contract running down. Asked about Salah’s future, Slot said: “It’s difficult for me to predict the long-term future, but the only thing I can expect or predict is that he is in a very good place at the moment. Two goals and an assist for Mo tonight 👏 pic.twitter.com/tMXidgeA0P — Liverpool FC (@LFC) December 4, 2024 “He plays in a very good team that provides him with good opportunities and then he is able to do special things. “And what makes him for me even more special is that in the first hour or before we scored to make it 1-1, you thought, ‘He’s not playing his best game today’, and to then come up with a half-hour or 45 minutes – I don’t know how long it was – afterwards with an assist, two goals, having a shot on the bar, being a constant threat, that is something not many players can do if they’ve played the first hour like he did. “That is also what makes him special. If you just look at the goals, his finish is so clinical. He’s a special player, but that’s what we all know.” Salah did indeed endure a quiet opening 45 minutes by his standards and it was the Magpies who went in at the break a goal to the good after Alexander Isak’s stunning 35th-minute finish. Slot said: “The shot from Isak, I don’t even know if Caoimh (keeper Caoimhin Kelleher) saw that ball, as hard as it was.” Salah set up Curtis Jones to level five minutes into the second half and after Anthony Gordon has restored the hosts’ lead, levelled himself from substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold’s 68th-minute cross. He looked to have won it with a fine turn and finish – his ninth goal in seven league games – seven minutes from time, only for Schar to pounce from a tight angle in the 90th minute. Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe was delighted with the way his team took the game to the Reds four days after their disappointing 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace. Howe, who admitted his surprise that VAR official Stuart Attwell had not taken a dimmer view of a Virgil van Dijk shoulder barge on Gordon, said: “It’s mixed emotions. “Part of me feels we should have won it – a big part of me – but part of me is pleased we didn’t lose either because it was such a late goal for us. “Generally, I’m just pleased with the performance. There was much more attacking output, a much better feel about the team. “There was much better energy, and it was a really good performance against, for me, the best team we’ve played so far this season in the Premier League, so it was a big jump forward for us.”LINCOLN — Amid what he called “angst” over the departure of a successful defensive coordinator, Nebraska coach Matt Rhule on Wednesday named an interim replacement for Tony White while resisting any firm timeline for hiring the permanent guy. “I have no timetable other than to get it right,” Rhule said as part of his Signing Day press conference. “Just to make it right.” White left Monday for the same job at Florida State. Defensive backs coach John Butler, a longtime NFL assistant who also coordinated Penn State’s defense in 2013, will oversee the Husker defense in a bowl game later this month. Butler is also a candidate for the permanent role, Rhule said, and ran the unit in Wednesday’s practice. “I’ve had a lot of players come into me and voice their opinions,” Rhule said. “A lot of guys love John on the staff, on the team.” Whether Butler or some other coach fills the coordinator role, Rhule intends to continue running the 3-3-5 system Whie brought with him from Syracuse. The scheme favors aggressive blitz scheme and can be hard for opposing offenses to decipher when rushing the ball. “I don’t want to switch to something different,” Rhule said. “I want to do this defense. Whoever that is, I don’t want to make that decision for the short term — where we all feel good about it — and I don’t want to make a ‘splashy’ hire.” Two years ago White fit that bill coming from Syracuse. In two seasons at NU, he coordinated national top-20 defenses in both points and yards per game allowed. On Sunday, two days after his defense allowed just 164 yards in a 13-10 loss to Iowa, Rhule said White came to him and desired to take the Florida State job for “family reasons.” Terrance Knighton, the team’s defensive line coach, has left, too, according to reports and his own X social media account, although Rhule deemed Knighton still “with” the team on Wednesday. The same was true of receivers coach Garret McGuire, who has the option, Rhule said, to remain with the team in an adjusted role after Rhule made official the hire of Kentucky receivers coach Daikiel Shorts, who had previously played and coached under new Nebraska offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen. “It was Dana’s only request,” Rhule said. Holgorsen would like to retain offensive line coach Donovan Raiola, quarterbacks coach Glenn Thomas, running backs coach EJ Barthel and tight ends coach Marcus Satterfield, demoted in early November from the playcaller role. Shorts, Rhule said, is a strong recruiter who understands Holgorsen’s system. “The offense will be better,” that it had been for the first 21 games of his tenure, Rhule said, thanks Holgorsen’s addition and more time in the system. Nebraska’s defense will continue to play well, Rhule said, regardless of the coordinator. “Did I want Tony to leave? No. But it’s OK,” Rhule said. “Coaches are going to leave. If we have good players and we have good coaches, people are going to come try to get them. If no one’s trying to take our players and no one’s trying takes our coaches, that means we’re in trouble. “So that’s what it’s going to be. And the thing I’m seeing is, people all over the country are saying ‘Nebraska is a place with resources’ so it’s ‘hey Coach, I’d love to come coach there.’” Get local news delivered to your inbox!

Johnson Controls prices senior notes offeringBrock Bowers sets NFL rookie records as the Raiders roll to a 25-10 victory over the Saints NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Aidan O'Connell passed for two touchdowns, tight end Brock Bowers broke two rookie NFL records , and the Las Vegas Raiders won for just the fourth time this season, 25-10 over the struggling New Orleans Saints on Sunday. Brett Martel, The Associated Press Dec 29, 2024 1:35 PM Dec 29, 2024 2:05 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Jakobi Meyers (16) celebrates with teammate tight end Brock Bowers (89) after catching a 3-yard touchdown pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert) NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Aidan O'Connell passed for two touchdowns, tight end Brock Bowers broke two rookie NFL records , and the Las Vegas Raiders won for just the fourth time this season, 25-10 over the struggling New Orleans Saints on Sunday. Bowers' seven catches for 77 yards gave him 108 receptions for 1,144 yards this season, eclipsing Mike Ditka's 1961 rookie tight end mark of 1,067 yards receiving and Puka Nacua's 2023 mark of 105 catches by a rookie at any position. Bowers also surpassed Darren Waller's franchise mark of 107 receptions in a season, which had stood since 2020. Ameer Abdullah rushed for 115 yards for the Raiders (4-12) — the journeyman running back's first 100-yard game in his 10 NFL seasons. O'Connell finished with 242 yards passing, including a 3-yard TD pass to Jakobi Meyers and an 18-yarder to Tre Tucker. Daniel Carlson kicked four field goals — his longest from 54 yards — for the Raiders, who didn't look fazed by flight delays on Saturday that got them into their hotel after midnight, less than 12 hours before kickoff. With former Raiders QB Derek Carr unable to suit up for the Saints (5-11) because of his injured left, non-throwing hand, rookie Spencer Rattler received his fifth career start. He remained winless as a starter after completing 20 of 36 passes for 218 yards and one TD with two interceptions. Rattler also rushed for 46 yards to finish as New Orleans' leading rusher for a second straight week. The Saints used trickery to take an early 7-3 lead . Running back Kendre Miller took what looked like a toss sweep to the right before throwing a lateral back to his left, where Rattler caught it and threw 30 yards downfield to wide-open tight end Foster Moreau in the end zone. Las Vegas moved in front for good on O'Connell's short scoring pass to Meyers with a minute left in the second quarter. Injuries Saints: Miller left the game with concussion symptoms in the second quarter. LB Jaylan Ford appeared to suffer a serious lower right leg injury on punt coverage in the fourth quarter. DE Payton Turner left with an ankle injury. WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling was treated on the field late in the game — but walked off on his own — after a hard collision over the middle. Up next Raiders: Host the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday. Saints: Visit Tampa Bay on Sunday. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl Brett Martel, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Football (NFL) Jim Harbaugh and Chargers focused on accomplishing more after wrapping up playoff berth Dec 29, 2024 2:02 PM Giants topple Colts 45-33 to eliminate Indy from the playoff race Dec 29, 2024 1:52 PM Bills clinch the AFC's No. 2 seed with a 40-14 rout of the undisciplined Jets Dec 29, 2024 1:36 PMHow Is Gold Taxed?

When the Washington Commanders take to the field against the rival Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, they'll once again be without Marshon Lattimore. Lattimore, who was acquired just before the Nov. 5 trade deadline, has yet to suit up for his new squad. The Commanders knew Lattimore was dealing with a hamstring injury when they traded for him, and made the move in hopes that it could pay off down the stretch even if he wouldn't be available immediately. Should Washington be concerned about Lattimore's health? Not necessarily... yet. The Commanders' games both this Sunday and next Sunday are against reeling teams in the Cowboys and Tennessee Titans, both of whom they should be able to beat without him. After that, they have a bye week prior to their four-game to end the regular season. Those four games will be against the suddenly surging New Orleans Saints, then against the Eagles and Atlanta Falcons at home before finishing up in Dallas. That's the stretch in which Lattimore's presence will become crucial. Even though Washington made the move him anticipating a playoff run, he'll need some preparation first. The Commanders can't expect to insert him into the lineup for a playoff game completely raw. If Lattimore isn't back after the bye week, then there will be cause for concern. For now, though, let him heal up until he's 100 percent.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States is expected to announce that it will send $1.25 billion in military assistance to Ukraine, U.S. officials said Friday, as the Biden administration pushes to get as much aid to Kyiv as possible before leaving office on Jan. 20. The large package of aid includes a significant amount of munitions, including for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems and the HAWK air defense system. It also will provide Stinger missiles and 155 mm- and 105 mm artillery rounds, officials said. The officials, who said they expect the announcement to be made on Monday, spoke on condition of anonymity to provide details not yet made public. The new aid comes as Russia has launched a barrage of attacks against Ukraine’s power facilities in recent days, although Ukraine has said it intercepted a significant number of the missiles and drones. Russian and Ukrainian forces are also still in a bitter battle around the Russian border region of Kursk, where Moscow has sent thousands of North Korean troops to help reclaim territory taken by Ukraine. Earlier this month, senior defense officials acknowledged that that the Defense Department may not be able to send all of the remaining $5.6 billion in Pentagon weapons and equipment stocks passed by Congress for Ukraine before President-elect Donald Trump is sworn in. Trump has talked about getting some type of negotiated settlement between Ukraine and Russia, and spoken about his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin . Many U.S. and European leaders are concerned that it might result in a poor deal for Ukraine and they worry that he won't provide Ukraine with all the weapons funding approved by Congress. The aid in the new package is in presidential drawdown authority, which allows the Pentagon to take weapons off the shelves and send them quickly to Ukraine. This latest assistance would reduce the remaining amount to about $4.35 billion. Officials have said they hope that an influx of aid will help strengthen Ukraine’s hand, should Zelenskyy decide it’s time to negotiate. One senior defense official said that while the U.S. will continue to provide weapons to Ukraine until Jan. 20, there may well be funds remaining that will be available for the incoming Trump administration to spend. According to the Pentagon, there is also about $1.2 billion remaining in longer-term funding through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which is used to pay for weapons contracts that would not be delivered for a year or more. Officials have said the administration anticipates releasing all of that money before the end of the calendar year. If the new package is included, the U.S. has provided more than $64 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since Russia invaded in February 2022.None

Early in the fall of 2024, a new novel from bestselling author Neal Stephenson – he of the historical sagas, tech fables, and doorstop tomes – galloped onto bookstore shelves and e-reader screens. “Polostan,” a swashbuckling mashup of spies, science, politics, and polo, unfolds in the 1920s and ’30s against a backdrop of souring U.S.-Soviet relations and rising rivalries. At the story’s center is a Russian American girl straddling the worlds of her Ukraine-born Bolshevik father, who calls her Aurora, and her Montana-raised cowgirl mother, to whom she is Dawn. It’s a bold and captivating look at power, loyalty, and the sustaining impulse to chart one’s own path. Mr. Stephenson recently discussed “Polostan,” the first in a planned series, via a video call with The Monitor. The interview has been edited and condensed. You’ve described “Polostan” as a passion project. Which elements of the story first grabbed you? I like writing historical fiction. Of all the projects I’ve worked on in my career, the ones that I have the fondest memories for tend to be the historical books. Even some of my science fiction-y books have historical content in them. So I wanted to go back to writing historical fiction on a big scale. My secret sauce is anything to do with science and technology. [“Polostan” features] a hugely important era in the history of the modern world, but one of the things that makes it interesting and important is what was happening, unbeknownst to most people, in the world of science at that time. The Dawn/Aurora character is a classic outsider – a bit adrift, never quite at home in either the U.S. or the Soviet Union. Has she been fun to write? Oh, very fun. One of the things that I enjoy doing is taking established tropes from literature or film and trying to come at them from a new angle. So there’s an established trope of the femme fatale Russian female agent. I thought, If somebody like that really existed during the era that I’m covering here, the ’30s and ’40s, then how could such a person have come into existence? How could you have somebody who’s equally conversant in both the English and Russian languages to the point where native speakers of those languages would assume she was born and raised in their country? It turned out it was actually pretty easy to tell that story in a realistic way because there was this era right after the Russian Revolution in the late teens and early 1920s, when there was a lot of back and forth between the Soviet Union and the United States. It was before we had the Cold War and before we had this state of hostility that’s existed between the two countries more recently. A lot of Americans with leftist sympathies went over there because they thought it was the future. And so it was pretty easy to find accounts of those kinds of people. It didn’t take long for them to sour on the whole thing and to see some of the negative aspects of what was going on. But for a few years people were going back and forth like this all the time. Why polo of all things? The more I learned about the sport, the more I became aware that the way we think of it now isn’t the way people thought of it a hundred years ago. Now, it’s probably the most upper-crust sport you can do. But a hundred years ago, it was also a sport that was played routinely by cavalry units all over the world as a training exercise. So in the Soviet Union, they played polo there because they had horse cavalry. And then I became aware that there were polo-pony ranches in eastern Wyoming around Gillette, where these ponies were bred, raised, trained, and sold to the international market. The people who worked on those ranches who were cowboys, cowgirls – white, Native American, Hispanic, Black – they played polo because it was part of their job. You can’t train one of these ponies without using it to play the sport. So my idea of what polo was changed to something that cut through all strata of society. And that gave me the idea that connections could be made between characters who normally wouldn’t have had anything to do with each other. This is such an interesting time to publish a story about U.S.-Russian spy games. How has the more recent history of the two countries shaped your thinking about the series? The big change that occurred since I started working on it about 10 years ago was the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Then, I may have been more inclined to see Russia and Ukraine as kind of more sibling countries and capable of somehow relating to each other in a more friendly way. Since the invasion, I started to educate myself a little bit and learned about the famine, the Holodomor, that wiped out millions of Ukrainians in 1933. Until I learned a little bit more about it, I was inclined to accept the view “Oh yeah, it’s too bad, the harvest failed; bad things happen, what a shame.” But when you actually read about what happened, you can see it was a sort of deliberate act of genocide that was carried out by decisions made in Moscow. It was a way of crushing Ukraine, and absorbing it more completely in the system that they wanted to build. It shouldn’t have been news to me, but it was. Is the series all mapped out? It’ll certainly be at least three [books]. Beyond that, never say never. The book is shorter and thinner than a lot of my books. That’s by design. My editor and I made the decision to bring them out as they’re ready, so publication will be spread out over a few years.AGF Reports November 2024 Assets Under Management and Fee-Earning Assets

Wall Street stocks surged to fresh records, extending a post-election rally on optimism about more interest rate cuts and for an artificial intelligence boom after strong Salesforce results. All three major indices scored records, led by the Dow Jones Industrial Average, which finished above 45,000 for the first time. “The market at this point is looking for excuses to go up, and there’s not really anything that might work against that narrative,” said Steve Sosnick, of Interactive Brokers. “Over the last couple of days, it’s managed to ignore all sorts of inconvenient things,” Sosnick said of the market’s shrugging response to political upheaval in France and South Korea . The Dow Jones Industrial Average finished up 0.7% at 45,014.04.

PISCATAWAY, N.J. (AP) — Trailing by one at the 40-yard line with 14 seconds to play and no timeouts, Illinois coach Bret Bielema sent in a play known as “church” to Luke Altmyer. The quarterback was to hit a receiver who was to go to the ground immediately. The offense would rush to the line of scrimmage and Altmyer would spike the ball to set up a potential winning field goal. Pat Bryant caught the pass at the 22 and then called his own split-second audible. Seeing a path to the end zone, the star receiver ran across the field on the way to the winning touchdown with 4 seconds left, sending the Illini to a wild 38-31 victory over Rutgers on Saturday. “Coach called a perfect play," Bryant said. "A play we run all the time in our two-minute drill. I caught the ball and saw the sideline and saw nobody was over there. I had one guy to beat. I gave him a little move. I heard everybody jump and say ’Get out, get out,' but I put trust in myself and scored a touchdown.” Bryant's ninth TD reception of the season capped a roller-coaster finish to a Big Ten game that featured three lead changes in the final 3:07. Illinois (8-3, 5-3) was down 31-30 when it sent long kicker Ethan Moczulski out for a desperation 58-yard field goal. Rutgers coach Greg Schiano called for a timeout right before Moczulski’s attempt was wide left and about 15 yards short. After the missed field goal was waved off by the timeout, Bielema sent his offense back on the field. “Pat is so aware of his surroundings," Bielema said after Bryant finished with seven catches for a career-high 197 yards. “He saw that corner and took off.” Schiano didn't second-guess his timeout but said he should have called it well before Moczulski kicked. “They made one more play than we did,” Schiano said. Rutgers (6-5, 3-5) gave up a safety on the final kickoff return, throwing a ball out of bounds in the end zone as players passed it around hoping for a miracle touchdown. Altmyer was 12-of-26 passing for 249 yards and two touchdowns. He put Illinois in front with a 30-yard TD run with 3:07 to go. He passed to Josh McCray on the 2-point conversion, making it 30-24. Rutgers responded with a 10-play, 65-yard drive. Athan Kaliakmanis had a 15-yard run on fourth down. He passed to running back Kyle Monangai for a 13-yard TD with 1:08 remaining. Illinois then drove 75 yards in eight plays for the win. “That's big-time football,” Monangai said. "They made a great play at the end of the game. I think we we played our hearts out to the end, to the very end, even that last play. Illinois did the same. They’re a great team. The chips fell their way today.” Kaliakmanis was 18 for 36 for 174 yards and two touchdowns. He also had 13 carries for 84 yards and two TDs. Monangai had a career-high 28 carries for 122 yards. Kaliakmanis found Ian Strong for a 2-yard touchdown in the final seconds of the first half, and he scored on a 1-yard run to lift Rutgers to a 24-15 lead early in the fourth quarter. Illinois responded with Aidan Laughery’s 8-yard TD run, setting the stage for the dramatic finish. The start of the second half was delayed because of a scrum between the teams. There were no punches thrown and the officials called penalties on both schools. Monangai’s day Monangai become the third player in Rutgers history to rush for 3,000 yards when he picked up 4 on a third-and-1 carry early in the second quarter. The defending conference rushing champion joins Ray Rice and Terrell Willis in hitting the mark. The takeaway Illinois: The great finish keeps the Illini in line for its first nine-win season since 2007 and a prestigious bowl game this season. Rutgers: The Scarlet Knights were seconds away from their first in-conference three-game win streak since joining the Big Ten in 2014. Up next Illinois: At Northwestern next Saturday. Rutgers: At Michigan State next Saturday. AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/college-football and https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-pollThe Liberal government is pulling out the federal wallet to put more money into people’s pockets over the holidays, but its recently announced affordability measures create winners and losers. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Thursday that the federal government will remove the goods and services tax on a slew of items for two months, starting Dec. 14. But in provinces where the provincial and federal sales taxes are blended together into a harmonized sales tax, Canadians will get a larger break. The federal government also plans to send $250 cheques to Canadians who were working in 2023 and earned up to $150,000. That means Canadians who were not working in 2023, including those who were receiving social assistance or were in retirement, will not be sent a cheque in April. In the House of Commons on Friday, NDP MP Peter Julian called the government out for not including Canadians with fixed incomes. “Why are Liberals excluding seniors and people with disabilities from the real help they need this holiday season? Why won’t Liberals help them, too?” Julian asked during question period. At a news conference on Friday, Trudeau said that the federal government has already stepped up to help the most vulnerable Canadians and that it is now time to give a hand to workers. “Over the past number of years, we have been extraordinarily present in helping the most vulnerable Canadians,” Trudeau said, mentioning the boost to old-age security for seniors aged 75 and older and the Canada Child Benefit. “But as I travel across the country, I do regularly hear from working Canadians who are having trouble making ends meet, but saying, ‘look, I don’t have kids. I’m not a senior yet, and I’m facing challenges.’” The GST break, which is expected to cost the federal government $1.6 billion, will apply to a number of items including children’s clothing and shoes, toys, diapers, restaurant meals and beer and wine. It also applies to Christmas trees — both natural and artificial — along with a variety of snack foods and beverages, and video game consoles. Meanwhile, 18.7 million people will receive a check this spring, costing the government about $4.7 billion.

Family detention, raids and ‘no price tag’: Trump’s mass deportation plan comes into focusUS to send $1.25 billion in weapons to Ukraine, pushing to get aid out before Biden leaves office WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials say the United States is expected to announce it will send another $1.25 billion in military assistance to Ukraine. It's part of a push by the Biden administration to get as much aid to Kyiv as possible before leaving office on Jan. 20. Officials say the large package of aid includes a significant amount of munitions, including for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems and the HAWK air defense system. It also will provide Stinger missiles and 155 mm- and 105 mm artillery rounds. The officials say they expect the announcement will be made on Monday. They spoke on condition of anonymity to provide details not yet made public. An online debate over foreign workers in tech shows tensions in Trump's political coalition WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — An online spat between factions of Donald Trump’s supporters over immigration and the tech industry has thrown internal divisions in the president-elect’s political movement into public display. The argument previews fissures and contradictory views his coalition could bring to the White House. The rift laid bare tensions between the newest flank of Trump’s movement — that is, wealthy members of the tech world who want more highly skilled workers in their industry — and people in Trump’s Make America Great Again base who championed his hardline immigration policies. A 9th telecoms firm has been hit by a massive Chinese espionage campaign, the White House says WASHINGTON (AP) — A top White House official says a ninth U.S. telecoms firm has been confirmed to have been hacked as part of a sprawling Chinese espionage campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans. Administration officials said this month that at least eight telecommunications companies, as well as dozens of nations, had been affected by the Chinese hacking blitz known as Salt Typhoon. But Anne Neuberger, a deputy national security adviser, said Friday that a ninth victim had been identified after the administration released guidance to companies about how to hunt for Chinese culprits in their networks. Israeli troops burn northern Gaza hospital after forcibly removing staff and patients, officials say DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Gaza's Health Ministry says Israeli troops have stormed one of the last hospitals operating in the territory's north on Friday and forced many of the staff and patients outside. Then they had to remove their clothes in winter weather. It was the latest assault on Kamal Adwan Hospital. Parts of it were set on fire. Staff say it has been hit multiple times in the past three months by Israeli troops waging an offensive against Hamas fighters in surrounding neighborhoods. Israel's military says Hamas uses the hospital as a base. It did not provide evidence, and hospital officials have denied it. Azerbaijani and U.S. officials suggest plane that crashed may have been hit by weapons fire U.S. and Azerbaijani officials have said weapons fire may have brought down an Azerbaijani airliner that crashed on Wednesday, killing 38 people. The statements from Rashad Nabiyev and White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Friday raised pressure on Russia. Officials in Moscow have said a drone attack was underway in the region that the Azerbaijan Airlines flight was destined for but have not addressed statements from aviation experts who blamed the crash on Russian air defenses responding to a Ukrainian attack. The plane was flying from Azerbaijan’s capital of Baku to Chechnya on Wednesday when it crashed, killing 38 people and leaving all 29 survivors injured. Court rules Georgia lawmakers can subpoena Fani Willis for information related to her Trump case ATLANTA (AP) — A judge has ruled that the Georgia state Senate can subpoena Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis. It's part of a inquiry into whether Willis has engaged in misconduct during her prosecution of President-elect Donald Trump. But Fulton County Superior Court Judge Shukura Ingram is giving Willis the chance to contest whether lawmakers’ demands are overly broad before Willis responds. A Republican-led committee was formed earlier this year and sent subpoenas to Willis in August seeking to compel her to testify during its September meeting and to produce scores of documents. Willis argued that the committee didn’t have the power to subpoena her. US homelessness up 18% as affordable housing remains out of reach for many people Federal officials say the United States saw an 18.1% increase in homelessness, a dramatic rise driven mostly by a lack of affordable housing as well as devastating natural disasters and a surge of migrants in several parts of the country. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said that federally required tallies taken across the country in January found that more than 770,000 people were counted as homeless. That increase comes on top of a 12% increase in 2023, which HUD blamed on soaring rents and the end of pandemic assistance. Among the most concerning trends was a nearly 40% rise in family homelessness. In states that ban abortion, social safety net programs often fail families MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee has a nearly total abortion ban and a porous safety net for mothers and young children. GOP state leaders in Tennessee and other states that banned abortion after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022 argue that they are bolstering services for families. Recent research and an analysis by The Associated Press has found that from the time a Tennessee woman gets pregnant, she faces greater obstacles to a healthy pregnancy, a healthy child and a financially stable family life than the average American mom. What Snoop wants: Arizona Bowl gives NIL opportunities to players for Colorado State, Miami (Ohio) TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — When Snoop Dogg agreed to become the sponsor of the Arizona Bowl, he had a demand: It must have a NIL component. Other bowls have provided NIL chances for single players the past few years, but the Arizona Bowl is believed to be the first to offer NIL compensation to every player on both Colorado State and Miami (Ohio). The players participated in youth clinics before Saturday's game and will be compensated for their time. Alex Ovechkin is on track to break Wayne Gretzky's NHL career goals record Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals is chasing the NHL career goals record of 894 held by Wayne Gretzky. Ovechkin entered the season 42 goals short of breaking a record that long seemed unapproachable. He is set to play again Saturday at the Toronto Maple Leafs after missing more than a month with a broken left fibula. Ovechkin was on pace to get to 895 sometime in February before getting injured. At 868, he his 27 goals away from passing Gretzky.

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THE Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ) has assured the public of an adequate supply of grain-processed products during this festive season. It says it has adequate stocks of essential grain-based commodities to meet demand this festive season unlike in the past. In the past, retailers took advantage of shortages of commodities during the festive season to hike prices, thereby dampening the spirit of merry-making. In a statement, GMAZ national chairman, Dr Tafadzwa Musarara, attributed this year’s achievement to strategic planning and unwavering commitment. “We are proud to report that the local market is adequately stocked with maize meal, rice, flour, salt and other essentials. The surplus supply has stabilised prices, making these commodities accessible to all at both formal and informal retail outlets,” he said. The 2024 agricultural season posed significant challenges due to prolonged drought conditions, which forced the industry to rely heavily on imported grain. Despite these hurdles, Dr Musarara said the sector has ensured consistent supply and remains committed to supporting local agriculture through initiatives such as contract farming and exploring additional source markets to maintain affordability. Dr Musarara also expressed gratitude to the Government for its private-led approach to achieving national food security. “The Government’s policies align with international best practices and have enabled us to adapt effectively to these challenges,” he said. —@SikhulekelaniM1 Sikhulekelani Moyo, KIDSMART, a popular retail outlet in Bulawayo, has been closed since Monday afternoon amid allegations of failing to comply with Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) regulations on tax and duty payments for imported goods. Social media reports suggest the store was operating without a Zimra Tax Clearance Certificate, with claims that its goods [...] Nokuthaba Brita Ncube, RETAIL giant, OK Zimbabwe has expressed concerns that the tax proposals outlined in the 2025 National Budget statement may increase costs and reduce profit margins for certain product lines, particularly alcoholic beverages and deli products. In its trading update for the half-year ending September 30, 2024, the company highlighted that the [...] Mukudzei Chingwere, Harare Bureau Khayah Cement Limited has entered corporate rescue proceedings due to the effects of the crippling illegal economic sanctions that have severely impacted its operations. The company adopted a resolution effective from December 20 to initiate a corporate rescue procedure under the Insolvency Act and Mr Bulisa Mbano of Grant Thornton (Zimbabwe) [...]shopwithcrypto.io Set to Revolutionize Shopping with Cryptocurrency: The Future of Retail is Herenice88 free 120 download 。

Major stock indexes on Wall Street drifted to a mixed finish Friday, capping a rare bumpy week for the market. The S&P 500 ended essentially flat, down less than 0.1%, after wavering between tiny gains and losses most of the day. The benchmark index posted a loss for the week, its first after three straight weekly gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.2%, while the Nasdaq composite rose 0.1%, ending just below the record high it set on Wednesday. There were more than twice as many decliners than gainers on the New York Stock Exchange. Gains in technology stocks helped temper losses in communication services, financials and other sectors of the market. Broadcom surged 24.4% for the biggest gain in the S&P 500 after the semiconductor company beat Wall Street’s profit targets and gave a glowing forecast, highlighting its artificial intelligence products. The company also raised its dividend. The company's big gain helped cushion the market's broader fall. Pricey stock values for technology companies like Broadcom give the sector more weight in pushing the market higher or lower. Artificial intelligence technology has been a focal point for the technology sector and the overall stock market over the last year. Tech companies, and Wall Street, expect demand for AI to continue driving growth for semiconductor and other technology companies. Some tech stocks were a drag on the market. Nvidia fell 2.2%, Meta Platforms dropped 1.7% and Google parent Alphabet slid 1.1%. Among the market's other decliners were Airbnb, which fell 4.7% for the biggest loss in the S&P 500, and Charles Schwab, which closed 4% lower. Furniture and housewares company RH, formerly known as Restoration Hardware, surged 17% after raising its forecast for revenue growth for the year. All told, the S&P 500 lost 0.16 points to close at 6,051.09. The Dow dropped 86.06 points to 43,828.06. The Nasdaq rose 23.88 points to 19,926.72. Wall Street's rally stalled this week amid mixed economic reports and ahead of the Federal Reserve's last meeting of the year. The central bank will meet next week and is widely expected to cut interest rates for a third time since September. Expectations of a series of rate cuts has driven the S&P 500 to 57 all-time highs so far this year . The Fed has been lowering its benchmark interest rate following an aggressive rate hiking policy that was meant to tame inflation. It raised rates from near-zero in early 2022 to a two-decade high by the middle of 2023. Inflation eased under pressure from higher interest rates, nearly to the central bank's 2% target. The economy, including consumer spending and employment, held strong despite the squeeze from inflation and high borrowing costs. A slowing job market, though, has helped push a long-awaited reversal of the Fed's policy. Inflation rates have been warming up slightly over the last few months. A report on consumer prices this week showed an increase to 2.7% in November from 2.6% in October. The Fed's preferred measure of inflation, the personal consumption expenditures index, will be released next week. Wall Street expects it to show a 2.5% rise in November, up from 2.3% in October. The economy, though, remains solid heading into 2025 as consumers continue spending and employment remains healthy, said Gregory Daco, chief economist at EY. “Still, the outlook is clouded by unusually high uncertainty surrounding regulatory, immigration, trade and tax policy,” he said. Treasury yields edged higher. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.40% from 4.34% late Thursday. European markets slipped. Britain's FTSE 100 fell 0.1%. Britain’s economy unexpectedly shrank by 0.1% month-on-month in October, following a 0.1% decline in September, according to data from the Office for National Statistics. Asian markets closed mostly lower.Mumbai: The Supreme Court’s interim order barring the Enforcement Directorate (ED) from unlocking and examining electronic devices seized from Santiago Martin has stirred significant concerns among investigative agencies. The decision has sparked debates on privacy rights and its potential implications on ongoing and future investigations. The apex court's intervention follows a petition filed by Future Gaming, which seeks to protect fundamental rights, particularly the right to privacy. The petition argues that the information stored on personal digital devices is highly personal and intimate, necessitating safeguards against unrestricted access. The court has explicitly directed the ED “not to access and copy” the content of mobile phones belonging to lottery king Santiago Martin, who heads Future Gaming, and a range of electronic devices belonging to his company’s employees. The ED, which is investigating Santiago Martin in connection with alleged money laundering activities involving large sums, has expressed disappointment over the order. A senior official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated that it won’t impact their case as they have strong evidence against Martin. but acknowledged it as a "major obstacle" in obtaining crucial digital data. Officials have also raised concerns that the Supreme Court’s decision could set a challenging precedent for ongoing and future cases. If accused individuals routinely challenge the seizure of electronic devices, it could hamper our ability to gather critical digital evidence, especially in cases involving financial fraud and money laundering. Advocate Adity Talpade, representing several accused in CBI and DRI cases, commented, "The Supreme Court's recent order will positively affect numerous cases nationwide. Seizing and examining someone's mobile phone infringes on their privacy, which is integral to personal liberty and dignity. Additionally, in cases of mobile phone seizure, the hash value (a unique code representing the contents of a file or data) must be secured at the time of seizure, as required by the Information Technology Act, 2000, to ensure it is not tampered with. Advocate Viquar Rajguru, representing Mohammad Salim Qureshi alias Salim Fruit, an associate of Chhota Shakeel, said, "This is a commendable decision by the Supreme Court, affirming its historic ruling on the right to privacy in the K.S. Puttaswamy case. This decision should be welcomed, as mobile phones contain a vast amount of personal digital information." He referred to the Supreme Court's 9-judge bench decision in K.S. Puttaswamy vs. Union of India (2017) 10 SCC 1, which recognized the right to privacy as a fundamental right, describing it as a natural, basic, inherent, and inalienable right. Regarding his case, Rajguru stated that the voice sample of Salim Fruit, taken by the NIA, is under challenge before the High Court, as it was taken without proper authorization, which falls under the category of a violation of the right to privacy. However, Advocate Ejaz Nakvi argued for an appeal against the order, stating, "The Union Government should support this appeal to uphold the public's right to know the truth, which aligns with the principle of 'Satya Mev Jayate'. Santiago Martin's dubious foreign connections and offshore activities demand transparency." The case involving Future Gaming has been combined with similar petitions, including one filed by employees of Amazon India challenging the ED's demands to surrender their personal electronic devices during an investigation. This raises concerns about the scope of authority and privacy in corporate and individual contexts. Another key case in the consolidation is the Newsclick matter, where petitioners are seeking Supreme Court guidelines after the Delhi Police seized digital devices during a 2023 investigation into alleged financial irregularities. These cases collectively raise significant legal questions about the procedures, safeguards, and limits involved in seizing and accessing personal electronic data during investigations, highlighting the growing conflict between investigative powers and individual privacy rights. A senior officer from the agency stated that the procedures being followed strictly adhere to established guidelines, including the CBI Manual on Search and Seizure of Digital Evidence. The officer emphasized that the investigation is proceeding within the boundaries of the law, ensuring a balance between the needs of the investigation and respect for individual rights. Santiago Martin’s Future Gaming gained prominence recently as the single largest purchaser of now-defunct electoral bonds, having acquired bonds worth Rs 1,368 crore between 2019 and 2024. Data released by the Election Commission revealed the beneficiaries of these donations. The Trinamool Congress was the largest recipient at Rs 542 crore, followed closely by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) at Rs 503 crore. Other significant recipients included the YSR Congress (Rs 154 crore) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (Rs 100 crore). Prakash Shetty, noted criminal lawyer and special public prosecutor in several terror cases, said that "No doubt personal liberty of the citizens but at the same time investigation is also necessary. The investigation cannot be controlled." However, in this case, the order passed by the Supreme court is an interim order and can be revoked or vacated if need be. The Investigating officer has to satisfy the ground and urgency for the same. "No doubt it affects the investigation and delays the process but the investigating officer has to plead the court for the necessity. Another senior public prosecutor, on the condition of anonymity said that the order hampers the investigating of the case to a greater extend. "Since the hearing is scheduled after two months, in this period lot of valuable information is lost its relevance. With the right of the accused, the court also needs to consider the rights of investigating officer who also faces pressure to complete the probe," the prosecutor said. However, he said in such cases, the officer should move and urgent plea seeking review of the order.

Wednesday, December 25, 2024 The countdown to a new year is a time of reflection, celebration, and hope. And what better way to usher in a fresh start than with a dazzling display of fireworks painting the night sky? From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the world offers a plethora of breathtaking locations to witness this spectacular spectacle. Here’s a glimpse into some of the most unforgettable New Year’s Eve fireworks displays around the globe: 1. Sydney, Australia: A World-Renowned Spectacle Sydney consistently ranks among the top destinations to ring in the New Year. The city’s iconic harbor, with the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House as its majestic backdrop, provides an unparalleled stage for a truly unforgettable fireworks display. The celebrations begin early, with family-friendly shows followed by a breathtaking midnight extravaganza that illuminates the harbor with a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. Discover everything and anything about travel , tourism , trade shows at the Travel And Tour World , including breaking travel news and weekly travel updates for travel trade , airlines , cruise , railways , technology , travel association , DMCs, and video interviews and promotional videos . 2. Times Square, New York City, USA: The Iconic Ball Drop The Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration is one of the most famous and iconic in the world. The descent of the glittering ball at midnight, accompanied by a cacophony of cheers and confetti, is a truly unforgettable experience. While the main event takes place in Times Square itself, the city offers numerous vantage points to enjoy the festivities, including rooftop bars, restaurants, and nearby parks. 3. Dubai, UAE: A Sky-High Spectacle Dubai, known for its extravagant displays, puts on a truly spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks show. The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, serves as the centerpiece for this dazzling display, with fireworks erupting from its pinnacle and illuminating the surrounding cityscape. The city also hosts various other fireworks displays throughout the evening, creating a truly unforgettable spectacle. 4. London, England: A Royal Celebration London offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity for New Year’s Eve celebrations. The iconic London Eye provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city and a prime vantage point for the fireworks display over the River Thames. Big Ben chimes in the new year, adding to the festive atmosphere. 5. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: A Beachside Extravaganza Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach is renowned for its vibrant and energetic New Year’s Eve celebrations. Millions of people gather on the beach to witness the dazzling fireworks display that lights up the night sky. The festivities include music, dancing, and traditional rituals, creating a truly unforgettable experience. 6. Hong Kong, China: A Symphony of Lights Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour is transformed into a dazzling spectacle on New Year’s Eve. The city’s iconic skyline, illuminated by a symphony of lights, provides a breathtaking backdrop for the fireworks display. The celebrations often include cultural performances, street food vendors, and a festive atmosphere throughout the city. 7. Berlin, Germany: A Party Like No Other Berlin is known for its vibrant nightlife and energetic celebrations, and New Year’s Eve is no exception. The city hosts numerous parties and events throughout the night, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over the Brandenburg Gate. The festive atmosphere is contagious, making it an unforgettable experience for partygoers. 8. Paris, France: A Romantic Celebration Paris, the City of Love, offers a romantic and enchanting setting for New Year’s Eve celebrations. The Eiffel Tower, illuminated with dazzling lights, provides a breathtaking backdrop for the fireworks display. The city also hosts various other events and celebrations throughout the night, creating a festive atmosphere. 9. Tokyo, Japan: A Unique Cultural Experience New Year’s Eve in Tokyo is a unique and unforgettable experience. The city’s temples and shrines come alive with festive decorations and rituals. While there are no large-scale public fireworks displays, the celebrations focus on traditional customs such as ringing temple bells 108 times to cleanse the past year and welcome the new. 10. Edinburgh, Scotland: Hogmanay Celebrations Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations are world-renowned for their energy and enthusiasm. The festivities include torchlight processions, street parties, and live music performances, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display over Edinburgh Castle. Planning Your New Year’s Eve Fireworks Adventure No matter where you choose to celebrate, planning ahead is crucial for a memorable New Year’s Eve experience. The world offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for those seeking to witness spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks displays. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, each destination offers its own unique charm and unforgettable memories. So, choose your destination, plan your journey, and get ready to ring in the new year with a bang! Discover everything and anything about travel , tourism , trade shows at the Travel And Tour World , including breaking travel news and weekly travel updates for travel trade , airlines , cruise , railways , technology , travel association , DMCs, and video interviews and promotional videos .Donald Trump is returning to the world stage. 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Restaurant Brands International Inc. stock rises Monday, outperforms marketNorthern Super League and team officials hold two days of meetings in TorontoNoneBILLERICA — The Billerica Police Department announced the recent promotions of Lt. Mark Tsoukalas and Sgts. Ryan Koles and Rocco Magliozzi to new leadership roles within the force. “The Town of Billerica is fortunate to have these three professionals working in such important roles,” Chief Roy Frost said in a press release making the announcement. “Police leadership is the foundation of a safe, supportive and flourishing community. I am confident these promotions will align well with those objectives.” • Tsoukalas, a veteran of the Billerica Police Department since 1999, was key in restarting the K-9 program in 2003 after years without it. He also served in the Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council K-9 Unit from 2004 to 2024, and was its commander for a time. Promoted to sergeant in 2019, Tsoukalas oversaw the Traffic Department in 2024. He also updated the field training officer program and holds a bachelor’s from Suffolk University. In his new role, Tsoukalas will be the officer in charge of the midnight to 8 a.m. shift. • Koles, who holds a bachelor’s degree from Westfield University, has served with the Billerica Police Department since 2014 after working two years with the Dunstable Police Department. He is a longtime field training officer and part of the Billerica Police Honor Guard. Koles became a K-9 handler in 2023 and has been recognized for finding missing or suicidal individuals with his K-9 partner, Cassius. He will now serve as a patrol sergeant on the midnight to 8 a.m. shift. • Magliozzi has been with the Billerica Police Department since 2014 and became a K-9 handler in 2018. Known for his work with his K-9 partner, Skye, Magliozzi has found numerous missing or suicidal individuals and has been recognized for finding crucial evidence in serious crimes. Magliozzi, who holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts, is also a field training officer and plays a big role in the department’s Community Policing and Social Media units. He will now serve as a patrol sergeant on the 4 p.m. to midnight shift. Follow Aaron Curtis on X, formerly known as Twitter, @aselahcurtisnice88 free 120 login 。

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AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BigCommerce Holdings, Inc. ("BigCommerce") BIGC , a leading Open SaaS ecommerce platform for fast-growing and established B2C and B2B brands, today announced the following upcoming investor conference presentations. Chief Financial Officer Daniel Lentz will present and host meetings with institutional investors at: UBS Global Technology and AI Conference on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at 4:15 p.m. Mountain Time (5:15 p.m. Central Time) Raymond James TMT & Consumer Conference on Monday, December 9, 2024 at 9:20 a.m. Eastern Time (8:20 a.m. Central Time) Chief Executive Officer Travis Hess and Chief Financial Officer Daniel Lentz will present and host meetings with institutional investors at: Barclays Global Technology Conference on Thursday, December 12, 2024 at 9:15 a.m. Pacific Time (11:15 a.m. Central Time) Live webcasts of the presentations will be accessible from the BigCommerce investor relations website at https://investors.bigcommerce.com . Following the events, replays will be made available at the same location. About BigCommerce BigCommerce is a leading open SaaS and composable ecommerce platform that empowers brands and retailers of all sizes to build, innovate and grow their businesses online. BigCommerce provides its customers sophisticated enterprise-grade functionality, customization and performance with simplicity and ease-of-use. Tens of thousands of B2C and B2B companies across 150 countries and numerous industries rely on BigCommerce, including Burrow, Coldwater Creek, Harvey Nichols, King Arthur Baking Co., MKM Building Supplies, United Aqua Group and Uplift Desk. For more information, please visit www.bigcommerce.com or follow us on X and LinkedIn . BigCommerce® is a registered trademark of BigCommerce Pty. Ltd. Third-party trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners. Media Relations Contact Investor Relations Contact Brad Hem Tyler Duncan PR@BigCommerce.com InvestorRelations@BigCommerce.com © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.These holiday gifts change the game when building fires, printing photos, watching birds and moreThanksgiving Travel Latest: Airport strike, staff shortages and weather could impact holiday travelTrump's Tariff Threats Loom Amid Global Trade Concerns

A judge on Monday rejected a request to block a San Jose State women's volleyball team member from playing in a conference tournament on grounds that she is transgender. The ruling by U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Kato Crews in Denver will allow the player, who has played all season, to compete in the Mountain West Conference women's championship opening this week in Las Vegas. The ruling comes in a lawsuit filed by nine current players against the Mountain West Conference challenging the league's policies for allowing transgender players to participate. The players argued that letting her compete was a safety risk and unfair. While some media have reported those and other details, neither San Jose State nor the forfeiting teams have confirmed the school has a trans woman volleyball player. The Associated Press is withholding the player's name because she has not commented publicly on her gender identity. School officials also have declined an interview request with the player. Crews' ruling referred to the athlete as an "alleged transgender" player and noted that no defendant disputed that the San Jose State roster includes a transgender woman player. San Jose State will "continue to support its student-athletes and reject discrimination in all forms," the university said in a statement, confirming that all its student-athletes are eligible to participate under NCAA and conference rules. "We are gratified that the Court rejected an eleventh-hour attempt to change those rules. Our team looks forward to competing in the Mountain West volleyball tournament this week." The conference did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment. The players filed a notice for emergency appeal with the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Crews said the players who filed the complaint could have sought relief much earlier, noting the individual universities had acknowledged that not playing their games against San Jose State this season would result in a loss in league standings. He also refused a request to re-seed the tournament without the forfeited losses. The judge said injunctions are meant to preserve the status quo. The conference policy regarding forfeiting for refusing to play against a team with a transgender player had been in effect since 2022 and the San Jose State player has been on the roster since 2022 -– making that the status quo. The player competed at the college level three previous seasons, including two for San Jose State, drawing little attention. This season's awareness of her reported identity led to an uproar among some players, pundits, parents and politicians in a major election year. Crews' ruling also said injunctions are meant to prevent harm, but in this case, he argued, the harm has already occurred. The games have been forfeited, the tournament has been seeded, the teams have made travel plans and the participants have confirmed they're playing. The tournament starts Wednesday and continues Friday and Saturday. Colorado State is seeded first and San Jose State, second. The teams split their regular-season matches and both get byes into Friday's semifinals. San Jose State will play the winner of Wednesday's match between Utah State and Boise State — teams that both forfeited matches to SJSU during the regular season. Boise State associate athletic director Chris Kutz declined to comment on whether the Broncos would play SJSU if they won their first-round tournament game. Utah State officials did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment. The conference tournament winner gets an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament. San Jose State coach Todd Kress, whose team has not competed in the national tournament since 2001, has said his team has been getting "messages of hate" and that has taken a toll on his players. Several teams refused to play against San Jose State during the season, earning losses in the official conference standings. Boise State and Wyoming each had two forfeits while Utah State and Nevada both had one. Southern Utah, a member of the Western Athletic Conference, was first to cancel against San Jose State this year. Nevada's players stated they "refuse to participate in any match that advances injustice against female athletes," without elaborating. Nevada did not qualify for the conference tournament. The nine current players and others now suing the Mountain West Conference, the California State University Board of Trustees and others include San Jose State senior setter and co-captain Brooke Slusser. The teammate Slusser says is transgender hits the volleyball with more force than others on the team, raising fear during practices of suffering concussions from a head hit, the complaint says. The Independent Council on Women's Sports is funding a separate lawsuit against the NCAA for allowing transgender women to compete in women's sports. Both lawsuits claim the landmark 1972 federal antidiscrimination law known as Title IX prohibits transgender women in women's sports. Title IX prohibits sexual discrimination in federally funded education; Slusser is a plaintiff in both lawsuits. Several circuit courts have used a U.S. Supreme Court ruling to conclude that discriminating against someone based on their transgender status or sexual orientation is sex-based discrimination, Crews wrote. That means case law does not prove the "likelihood of success" needed to grant an injunction. An NCAA policy that subjects transgender participation to the rules of sports governing bodies took effect this academic year. USA Volleyball says a trans woman must suppress testosterone for 12 months before competing. The NCAA has not flagged any issues with San Jose State. The Republican governors of Idaho, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming have made public statements in support of the team cancellations, citing fairness in women's sports. President-elect Donald Trump likewise has spoken out against allowing transgender women to compete in women's sports. Crews was a magistrate judge in Colorado's U.S. District Court for more than five years before President Joe Biden appointed him as a federal judge in January. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!

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We have seen our share of political dramas in our lifetime, but Vice President Sara Duterte’s recent actions—laced with reckless threats and melodrama—take the cake. Perhaps from Mary Grace? Lawyer Sara admitted to the criminal act of contracting a hitman for President Bongbong Marcos and his family. This, during a semi-siege at the Batasan Pambansa in defense of her chief of staff Atty. Zuleika Lopez. What have these antics exposed? Not just her disregard for decorum, but more significantly, her desperate attempts to deflect scrutiny from her office’s questionable spending of confidential funds. Her unravelling traces its roots to the unresolved issue of how her Office of the Vice President (OVP) expended P125 million in confidential funds daily in many areas in one day. Public outcry has centered on the flagrant lack of transparency and accountability in this robbery -like operation. The audacious speed and secrecy with which the funds—our money as taxpayers—were withdrawn, disbursed, and liquidated. The fast and furious maneuvers deserve at least one break to snack on Piattos. In this case, there’s no rest for the wicked. Many veteran career officials found the process alarming in its deviation from standard protocols. Duterte and her trusted inner circle, including Lopez, have offered little to assuage the people’s concerns. Instead, they have chosen the path of “bratinella” defiance and obfuscation. The brazenness of these transactions mirrors scenes from a crime thriller. Yet, this is no fictional “Money Heist”—it is a real-life plundering of public funds, a betrayal of trust by an office that not so long ago exemplified integrity. At its core, this is not about Duterte’s politics or her disagreements with the administration. It is about the audacious misuse of power and money meant for the Filipino people. Let’s never forget. Duterte’s profanity-laced tirades and theatrics serve one purpose: to distract us—the public—from the damning revelations being laid bare at the House hearings. Her threats to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other high-ranking officials, while conditional and couched in dramatic language, are deeply troubling. They showcase a lack of judgment and restraint, but more importantly they also shift attention away from the pressing issue of financial accountability. The Vice President’s continued defense of Lopez adds another layer to this political circus. Her dramatic pledge to accompany Lopez to detention and her fiery attacks on the House’s leadership create a spectacle designed to evoke sympathy while undermining the constitutional principles of checks and balances. But we the people are not distracted. At the heart of this uproar lies a simple question: Where did the confidential funds go, and how were they spent? The entire nation is now demanding accountability. First, for Congress to push through with its investigation into the OVP’s confidential funds. Lawmakers must resist any attempts to derail the inquiry and ensure that Duterte and her aides are held accountable. Pay particular attention to the SDO (special disbursement officers). Second, we Filipino voters are demanding transparency. We will make our voices heard in the midterm elections in May. We will seize this opportunity to elect leaders committed to transparency and reform. Sara Duterte’s actions serve as a cautionary tale: Misplaced trust can embolden leaders to trample on the principles of good governance. That’s why we remind all public officials that their ultimate loyalty should be to us the people, not their inner circle. The Vice President may think she can deflect attention with threats and drama, but the Filipino people are watching. And we demand answers: Ibabalik ba ang nilustay na confidential funds? Though VP Sara tried to downplay her “kill threat”, claiming they weren’t a direct threat due to their conditional phrasing, the implications are very alarming and sets a dangerous precedent of political intimidation in our country’s governance. This is not mere bravado but a troubling sign of the volatility pervading Philippine politics today. At the same time, it raises serious questions about her judgment and fitness for office. The ramifications are stark; her threats foster a hostile atmosphere that may cripple effective governance and collaborative policymaking. If Duterte feels emboldened to threaten high-ranking officials, it may stifle honest debate and cooperation essential for solving critical issues, from healthcare to economic recovery. As calls for impeachment grow, propelled by concerns over her mental stability and allegations of misusing public funds, we must ask ourselves: Should the people still trust her who shouts invectives, incites fear rather than promote dialogue? The vice presidency position demands seriousness and decorum, not personal attacks or threats against rivals. Each time a leader resorts to intimidation over constructive engagement, they erode public trust and degrade civil discourse. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . In conclusion, it is time to demand more from our leaders: accountability, transparency, and respect for public service. We must move away from unjustified threats and embrace responsible governance. This moment should serve as a wake-up call, reminding us that democracy flourishes through active participation and accountability by the governed. 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By KENYA HUNTER, Associated Press ATLANTA (AP) — As she checked into a recent flight to Mexico for vacation, Teja Smith chuckled at the idea of joining another Women’s March on Washington . As a Black woman, she just couldn’t see herself helping to replicate the largest act of resistance against then-President Donald Trump’s first term in January 2017. Even in an election this year where Trump questioned his opponent’s race , held rallies featuring racist insults and falsely claimed Black migrants in Ohio were eating residents’ pets , he didn’t just win a second term. He became the first Republican in two decades to clinch the popular vote, although by a small margin. “It’s like the people have spoken and this is what America looks like,” said Smith, the Los Angeles-based founder of the advocacy social media agency, Get Social. “And there’s not too much more fighting that you’re going to be able to do without losing your own sanity.” After Trump was declared the winner over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris , many politically engaged Black women said they were so dismayed by the outcome that they were reassessing — but not completely abandoning — their enthusiasm for electoral politics and movement organizing. Black women often carry much of the work of getting out the vote in their communities. They had vigorously supported the historic candidacy of Harris, who would have been the first woman of Black and South Asian descent to win the presidency. Harris’ loss spurred a wave of Black women across social media resolving to prioritize themselves, before giving so much to a country that over and over has shown its indifference to their concerns. AP VoteCast , a survey of more than 120,000 voters, found that 6 in 10 Black women said the future of democracy in the United States was the single most important factor for their vote this year, a higher share than for other demographic groups. But now, with Trump set to return to office in two months, some Black women are renewing calls to emphasize rest, focus on mental health and become more selective about what fight they lend their organizing power to. “America is going to have to save herself,” said LaTosha Brown, the co-founder of the national voting rights group Black Voters Matter. She compared Black women’s presence in social justice movements as “core strategists and core organizers” to the North Star, known as the most consistent and dependable star in the galaxy because of its seemingly fixed position in the sky. People can rely on Black women to lead change, Brown said, but the next four years will look different. “That’s not a herculean task that’s for us. We don’t want that title. ... I have no goals to be a martyr for a nation that cares nothing about me,” she said. AP VoteCast paints a clear picture of Black women’s concerns. Black female voters were most likely to say that democracy was the single most important factor for their vote, compared to other motivators such as high prices or abortion. More than 7 in 10 Black female voters said they were “very concerned” that electing Trump would lead the nation toward authoritarianism, while only about 2 in 10 said this about Harris. About 9 in 10 Black female voters supported Harris in 2024, according to AP VoteCast, similar to the share that backed Democrat Joe Biden in 2020. Trump received support from more than half of white voters, who made up the vast majority of his coalition in both years. Like voters overall, Black women were most likely to say the economy and jobs were the most important issues facing the country, with about one-third saying that. But they were more likely than many other groups to say that abortion and racism were the top issues, and much less likely than other groups to say immigration was the top issue. Despite those concerns, which were well-voiced by Black women throughout the campaign, increased support from young men of color and white women helped expand Trump’s lead and secured his victory. Politically engaged Black women said they don’t plan to continue positioning themselves in the vertebrae of the “backbone” of America’s democracy. The growing movement prompting Black women to withdraw is a shift from history, where they are often present and at the forefront of political and social change. One of the earliest examples is the women’s suffrage movement that led to ratification in 1920 of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution , which gave women the right to vote. Black women, however, were prevented from voting for decades afterward because of Jim Crow-era literacy tests, poll taxes and laws that blocked the grandchildren of slaves from voting. Most Black women couldn’t vote until the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Black women were among the organizers and counted among the marchers brutalized on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Alabama, during the historic march in 1965 from Selma to Montgomery that preceded federal legislation. Decades later, Black women were prominent organizers of the Black Lives Matter movement in response to the deaths of Black Americans at the hands of police and vigilantes. In his 2024 campaign, Trump called for leveraging federal money to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs in government programs and discussions of race, gender or sexual orientation in schools. His rhetoric on immigration, including false claims that Black Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, were eating cats and dogs, drove support for his plan to deport millions of people . Tenita Taylor, a Black resident of Atlanta who supported Trump this year, said she was initially excited about Harris’ candidacy. But after thinking about how high her grocery bills have been, she feels that voting for Trump in hopes of finally getting lower prices was a form of self-prioritization. “People say, ‘Well, that’s selfish, it was gonna be better for the greater good,”’ she said. “I’m a mother of five kids. ... The things that (Democrats) do either affect the rich or the poor.” Some of Trump’s plans affect people in Olivia Gordon’s immediate community, which is why she struggled to get behind the “Black women rest” wave. Gordon, a New York-based lawyer who supported the Party for Socialism and Liberation’s presidential nominee, Claudia de la Cruz, worries about who may be left behind if the 92% of Black women voters who backed Harris simply stopped advocating. “We’re talking millions of Black women here. If millions of Black women take a step back, it absolutely leaves holes, but for other Black women,” she said. “I think we sometimes are in the bubble of if it’s not in your immediate circle, maybe it doesn’t apply to you. And I truly implore people to understand that it does.” Nicole Lewis, an Alabama-based therapist who specializes in treating Black women’s stress, said she’s aware that Black women withdrawing from social impact movements could have a fallout. But she also hopes that it forces a reckoning for the nation to understand the consequences of not standing in solidarity with Black women. “It could impact things negatively because there isn’t that voice from the most empathetic group,” she said. “I also think it’s going to give other groups an opportunity to step up. ... My hope is that they do show up for themselves and everyone else.” Brown said a reckoning might be exactly what the country needs, but it’s a reckoning for everyone else. Black women, she said, did their job when they supported Harris in droves in hopes they could thwart the massive changes expected under Trump. “This ain’t our reckoning,” she said. “I don’t feel no guilt.” AP polling editor Amelia Thomson DeVeaux and Associated Press writer Linley Sanders in Washington contributed to this report. The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.Stock Market Symbols GIB (NYSE) GIB.A ( TSX ) cgi.com/newsroom Merger strengthens CGI's position with Fortune 500 clients in St. Louis , Atlanta , Minneapolis , Chicago , Columbus , Dallas and New York ST. LOUIS, Mo. , Dec. 11, 2024 /CNW/ - CGI (NYSE: GIB) (TSX: GIB.A) today announced the signature of an equity purchase agreement to merge operations with Daugherty, a St. Louis -based professional services firm specializing in artificial intelligence, data analytics, strategic IT consulting, and business advisory services for Fortune 500 clients in the financial services, healthcare, communications, retail and manufacturing sectors. The merger of operations brings more than 1,100 talented consultants to CGI, further strengthening the company's presence in multiple key U.S. growth markets, including St. Louis , Atlanta , Minneapolis , Chicago , Columbus , Dallas and New York . The parties entered into a purchase agreement on November 29, 2024 , and the transaction is expected to close in December 2024 , subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions. For 39 years, Daugherty has been committed to driving innovation, growth and customer satisfaction while making a positive difference in the community. For CGI, the merger with Daugherty establishes significant combined geographic presence in targeted U.S. markets, deepens industry expertise and enhances strategic advisory services with offerings around digital engagement, technology modernization, cloud transformation, and FinOps and sustainability. The merger with CGI enables Daugherty clients to retain local relationships and expertise while gaining access to CGI's global capabilities, network of delivery centers, and breadth of end-to-end services and solutions. Daugherty has consistently been named as the Largest IT Consulting Firm by the St. Louis Business Journal along with several top workplace recognitions across its metro markets and a 'top five in the nation' distinction in 2024 for the Top Workplaces USA . "At the heart of our strategic vision is a dual commitment: to our clients and our teammates," said Ron Daugherty , Daugherty President and CEO. "We're forging a path with CGI that expands global capabilities, creates meaningful professional opportunities, and amplifies our collective potential to drive innovation and positive change in our communities." Giving back to the communities in which CGI and Daugherty live and work is also a shared commitment, as evidenced by CGI's commitment to support of The Daugherty Foundation which will provide access to education, mentorship and career opportunities for young people and underrepresented groups in technology. "The combined strength of Daugherty and CGI creates additional value for clients through deep industry insight and technology expertise, with a strong commitment and proven history of delivering trusted business outcomes," said Vijay Srinivasan , CGI President of U.S. Commercial and State Government operations. "CGI and Daugherty are a great cultural fit as both companies share a strong commitment to their people and communities, a dedication to management fundamentals and a passion for excellence in execution for clients." In the U.S., CGI has operations across 80 offices which are organized through a metro market proximity model and supported by the depth of the company's international presence, range of services, and insights to deliver value locally. About CGI Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world. With 90,250 consultants and professionals across the globe, CGI delivers an end-to-end portfolio of capabilities, from strategic IT and business consulting to systems integration, managed IT and business process services and intellectual property solutions. CGI works with clients through a local relationship model complemented by a global delivery network that helps clients digitally transform their organizations and accelerate results. CGI Fiscal 2024 reported revenue is $14.68 billion and CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB). Learn more at cgi.com . View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cgi-expands-operations-in-multiple-us-metro-markets-with-daugherty-302329421.html SOURCE CGI Inc.MSI has revealed its Claw 8 AI and Claw 7 AI+ mobile gaming devices, which are powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 processor (Series 2). The Claw 7 AI+ has a 7-inch display, and the Claw 8 has an 8-inch panel. Both of these devices are Copilot Plus PC-capable handhelds for portable gaming. The Claw 8 AI comes in a ‘sandstorm’ colour variant and is ergonomically designed to fit in the user’s hand. It sports redesigned sticks, bumpers, D-pads and ‘hall-effect triggers’ for a better experience. It also offers Cooler Boost HyperFlow technology, a dual fan, and a dual heat pipe to help dissipate heat. The MSI Claw 8 and Claw 7 AI+ sport dual Thunderbolt 4 ports and offer an App Player, allowing users to play Android and Windows titles. The Claw 8 has 32GB of RAM, an Intel Arc 140V GPU, a 120Hz refresh rate, WiFi 7, a microSD card reader, and a power button with a fingerprint sensor. It also has an 80Whr battery that charges via USB-C. The MSI Claw 7 AI+ uses many of the same specs, but instead, a 54.5Whr battery comes in Black and Wi-Fi 6E. Canadian pricing and availability are not yet available.

Syria's de facto leader says it could take up to 4 years to hold electionsA growing emphasis is on designing the mouse that blends comfort, performance, and versatility. Ergonomic designs now focus on user well-being, with shapes that naturally fit the hand and materials that reduce palm strain. The convenience of wireless connectivity has become standard, allowing mice to connect effortlessly to devices through Bluetooth and other wireless options. Additionally, premium quality sensors deliver superior accuracy and responsiveness, ensuring smooth performance for both work and gaming. Another innovation is multi-device connectivity which has made it easier for users to switch between laptops, tablets, and smartphones with a simple click, streamlining productivity across platforms. This combination of ergonomic comfort, advanced technology, and connectivity meets the evolving needs of modern users. Take a look at the latest innovations and trends in mouse technology design: Ergonomics in mouse design is crucial for enhancing user comfort, productivity, and health. An ergonomically designed mouse reduces strain on the hand and wrist, minimizing the risk of repetitive strain injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome. By conforming to the natural shape and movement of the hand, these mice promote a neutral wrist position, which is essential for long hours of computer use. This not only increases user comfort but also boosts efficiency by reducing fatigue. Formify is revolutionizing ergonomic mouse design by 3D-printing custom-fit mice tailored to individual users’ hands. By scanning a user’s palm and analyzing thousands of data points like hand width and finger length, Formify creates a personalized mouse designed for optimal comfort and precision. It weighs just 55 grams and features a high-performance 650 IPS sensor, low-latency wireless connectivity, and customizable textures for a better grip. With programmable buttons and industry-standard switches, this mouse is ideal for gaming and daily tasks and offers a unique, ergonomic alternative to traditional mice. By moving beyond traditional mouse shapes, manufacturers can address diverse user needs, including comfort, precision, and aesthetic appeal. Unique shapes can accommodate various hand sizes and grips, ensuring a more personalized fit that reduces strain and enhances control. These designs often incorporate advanced features such as customizable buttons and adjustable weights, catering to both casual users and professionals. Furthermore, visually striking designs can elevate a user’s workspace, merging functionality with style. Despite being a staple for decades, the traditional mouse design has remained largely unchanged, contributing to issues like repetitive strain injury (RSI) due to its unnatural hand positioning. Ergonomic mice, particularly vertical models, are gaining popularity as they offer a more natural grip by aligning the hand in a handshake-like position. The Ergo ergonomic mouse concept builds on this idea but features a puzzling design that resembles a miniature clothes iron. While it maintains basic mouse functions, such as buttons and a scroll wheel, its unusual shape and button placements raise concerns about comfort and usability, potentially introducing new sources of strain. AI in mouse design is revolutionizing user interaction by introducing intelligent features that adapt to individual preferences and enhance performance. These smart mice use AI algorithms to learn from a user’s habits, adjusting sensitivity, button functions, and movement patterns for optimal efficiency. For instance, AI can dynamically alter DPI settings based on the task, whether it’s gaming, graphic design, or general browsing. Along with this, AI-driven predictive text or gesture recognition can streamline workflows, anticipating user needs and automating repetitive actions. The OctoAssist concept combines multiple presentation tools into a single modular device that resembles a regular mouse. Its detachable, touch-sensitive module can function as a mini touchpad with gesture support, while also incorporating a laser pointer and voice recorder for seamless presentation control and meeting documentation. Additionally, it features built-in AI to generate real-time meeting summaries and notes. While this all-in-one design offers convenience, its complexity, and potential battery strain, especially due to AI integration, could present challenges. Nonetheless, it provides a streamlined solution for presenters by merging several tools into one ergonomic device. Customizable mouse designs offer users a tailored experience by allowing them to adjust various features to suit their unique preferences and needs. These mice often come with interchangeable components, such as side grips and weights, enabling users to modify the mouse’s feel and balance for optimal comfort and control. The customizable buttons can be programmed for specific functions or macros, enhancing efficiency in gaming or professional applications. The Clickbrick mouse takes customizability to the next level. This innovative design allows users to personalize the mouse’s shape, button placement, and features using LEGO-like bricks, creating a fun and engaging working experience. With 58 individual parts, including buttons and scrolls, Clickbrick lets you easily reconfigure your mouse. It also integrates practical specifications, such as 2.4 GHz connectivity, a 30-hour battery life, and adjustable DPI settings ranging from 800 to 1600, making it an exciting option for anyone seeking a customizable and ergonomic mouse. Multifunctional mouse designs are transforming how users interact with their computers by integrating a variety of features into a single device. These mice go beyond basic navigation, incorporating elements like touch-sensitive surfaces, gesture controls, and built-in trackpads, allowing for fluid and intuitive interaction. Many multifunctional mice include additional buttons that can be customized for specific commands, streamlining complex workflows for both gamers and professionals. Some models offer wireless charging capabilities and multi-device connectivity, enabling seamless switching between computers, tablets, and other devices. The SEEK concept reimagines the traditional computer mouse by integrating it with a decorative table clock, enhancing its functionality even when not in use. The mouse features a stylish fabric-like surface, reminiscent of smart speakers, which adds an aesthetic appeal but raises concerns about cleanliness. When paired with the clock, which shares the same material and features a minimalist design, the two create a unique egg-shaped object that symbolizes warmth and patience. This combination not only elevates your desk’s decor but also transforms the act of connecting the two into a meaningful ritual at the end of the workday, symbolizing a transition into rest and productivity for the next day. Bamboo in mouse design offers a range of benefits that appeal to both environmentally conscious consumers and those seeking unique aesthetics. As a sustainable material, bamboo grows rapidly and requires fewer resources than traditional materials like plastic, making it an eco-friendly choice that reduces environmental impact. Its natural strength and durability ensure a long-lasting product, while its lightweight nature enhances user comfort during prolonged use. Bamboo’s organic texture and warm appearance provide a distinct, stylish look that stands out in a market dominated by synthetic materials. The Ice Mouse redefines computer peripherals with its innovative bamboo and aluminum design, making it one of the first eco-friendly mice on the market. This ergonomic wireless mouse promotes breathability, keeping hands cool during extended use, thanks to its CNC-machined bamboo upper and aluminum base that acts as a heat sink. With a unique wood grain pattern, each Ice Mouse is one-of-a-kind. It features a 2.4G wireless USB receiver and Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, allowing it to switch seamlessly between two devices, including smartphones and tablets. This refreshing design prioritizes comfort and style and embraces sustainability, providing an original alternative to conventional plastic mice. Ambidextrous mouse designs offer a versatile solution for users seeking comfort and functionality regardless of their dominant hand. These mice feature a symmetrical shape, allowing for seamless switching between left and right-hand use, making them ideal for shared environments or for users who prefer alternating hands to reduce strain. Typically, ambidextrous mice come equipped with centrally located scroll wheels and buttons accessible from either side, ensuring ease of use for all. Many models also include customizable buttons on both sides, enhancing adaptability and efficiency for diverse tasks, whether gaming or professional work. The Ball Mouse by Osay Imarhiagbe offers a unique, spherical design that enhances comfort for left- and right-handed users. Unlike traditional mice, this ergonomic mouse alleviates hand pressure during long hours of use and features a contoured bumper for a better grip. Available in various colors, it appeals to younger users and personal preferences. This mouse supports wireless connectivity and can function as a music controller or TV remote, allowing for easy navigation through playlists. Its compact design makes it a versatile and innovative addition to computer peripherals. Sustainable mouse designs are at the forefront of environmentally conscious technology, focusing on reducing the ecological footprint of electronic devices. These designs incorporate eco-friendly materials such as recycled plastics, bamboo, or biodegradable components, significantly decreasing reliance on non-renewable resources and minimizing waste. Manufacturers often employ energy-efficient production processes and packaging to further enhance sustainability. Some sustainable mice also feature modular components that are easily replaceable or upgradable, extending the device’s lifespan and reducing electronic waste. The Microsoft Ocean Plastic Mouse is an innovative ergonomic mouse made from 20% recycled ocean plastic, exceeding its original goal of 10%. This eco-friendly product highlights Microsoft’s commitment to sustainability, aiming for zero waste by 2030 and eliminating single-use plastics in packaging by 2025. Developed in collaboration with SABIC, the mouse features fully recyclable packaging made from wood and sugarcane fibers. It offers Bluetooth connectivity, a battery life of up to 12 months, and customizable buttons for enhanced functionality. Microsoft also supports a mail-in recycling program for old mice, furthering its environmental efforts. A modular mouse offers a customizable and adaptable solution for users seeking a personalized computing experience. These innovative devices allow users to modify various components, such as buttons, grips, and even sensors, to suit their specific needs and preferences. By enabling easy swapping of parts, modular mice cater to different tasks, whether it’s enhancing precision for gaming or optimizing comfort for prolonged office work. This adaptability not only enhances user comfort and performance but also extends the lifespan of the device, as individual components can be replaced or upgraded without discarding the entire mouse. 3D printed mouse design is revolutionizing the way we think about customization and production in computer peripherals. By leveraging the flexibility of 3D printing technology, users and manufacturers can create highly personalized mice that cater to specific ergonomic needs and aesthetic preferences. This approach allows for the rapid prototyping and iteration of designs, enabling the creation of unique shapes, textures, and features that are not feasible with traditional manufacturing methods. As a technique, 3D printing reduces material waste and can utilize sustainable materials, aligning with eco-friendly practices. The technology also opens the door for small-scale, on-demand production, making it possible for individuals or small companies to innovate without the need for large-scale industrial resources. The Optimum Zeromouse V35 is an ultra-lightweight gaming mouse, weighing just 16 grams, designed for optimal comfort and performance during extended gameplay. Its ergonomic 3D-printed shell features supergrips to minimize hand strain and enhance aiming precision by eliminating unnecessary buttons. Constructed with durable nylon PA12 using Selective Laser Sintering, the mouse maintains structural integrity while remaining compact. This innovative design offers gamers a tactical advantage in fast-paced matches, making it a standout choice in the competitive gaming community.

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TORONTO — Ontario says Ottawa's tax holiday will cost the province $1 billion, but it will support the GST break for consumers. Last week, the federal Liberal government announced plans to pause the GST for two months on prepared food, toys, some types of alcohol and other holiday season staples. In provinces like Ontario, where the provincial and federal sales taxes are blended together into a harmonized sales tax, the entire HST would be removed from such items. Premier Doug Ford has said he was supportive of the move. Now, the office of Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy confirms it will remove the provincial sales tax on items not already covered under provincial rebate. Ontario has long removed the provincial portion of the harmonized sales tax from similar items listed in Ottawa's GST break plan, such as children's clothes and some food. The premiers of New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island have said they want to be compensated by Ottawa for the provincial revenue lost during the tax holiday. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 27, 2024. Liam Casey, The Canadian PressAround one in every five people aged below 50 around the world is infected with incurable genital herpes, researchers have newly estimated. According to a new paper in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections , 846 million people worldwide are genitally infected with the herpes simplex virus—which causes both genital and oral herpes—with 42 million new cases in 2020 alone. During the same year, the researchers predict that over 200 million 15 to 49-year-olds likely had at least one outbreak of the infection. This marks an increase in estimated cases from previous years, indicating that the development of new treatments and vaccines is urgently needed. " Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 and type 2 infections are lifelong, globally prevalent, and cause a significant disease burden, including symptomatic genital ulcer disease (GUD), and economic costs," the researchers wrote in the paper. There are two forms of herpes simplex virus, HSV-1 and HSV-2, both spread via skin-to-skin contact. HSV-1 primarily causes oral herpes, while HSV-2 usually causes genital herpes, though both types can cause infection in both locations. HSV infections are incurable, establishing a latent infection in nerve cells , and can cause occasional flare-ups of painful blisters or sores. Around the mouth, these are often known as cold sores, or genital ulcer disease when around the genitals. "In addition to the painful genital sores, genital herpes is associated with a range of social and psychological adverse outcomes, including effects on sexual relations, quality of life, and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem," the researchers wrote. According to the paper, the number of people aged 15–49 years with genital infections from HSV-2 or HSV-1 worldwide in 2020 was 846.1 million. Some 520 million of these are thought to be due to HSV-2, with 26 million new cases of HSV-2 being recorded in 2020. Of these new cases, 15.6 million were female and 10 million were male. Around 4 billion people worldwide—two-thirds of the global population—are thought to be infected with HSV-1, the majority of which only have the oral form of the infection. However, in 2020, 376 million 15–49 year olds had the genital form of HSV-1, and 17 million new people were infected that year. About 13% of the 🌐 population aged 15 to 49 lived with #herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection in 2016. HSV-2 is almost exclusively sexually transmitted, causing genital herpes. Infection can lead to recurring, often painful, genital sores in up to 1/3 of people infected. pic.twitter.com/aNgaxDKpA3 Genital herpes is spread via sexual contact , with infection being most likely if someone has sores and is experiencing a flare-up. HSV-2 tends to shed more frequently than HSV-1 in the genital area, and people who recently acquired the infection are more likely to experience shedding than those who have had the virus for a long time. After infection from HSV, many people never develop symptoms . However, others may experience severe pain from the sores, especially during the first outbreak . The virus never goes away, lying dormant in the nerve cells, and may occasionally reactivate and cause recurrent sores. These flare-ups may be triggered by illness, stress, injuries, sun exposure, or even menstruation. The researchers also found that about 188 million people with HSV-2 and 17 million people with HSV-1 had at least one episode of genital sores in 2020 alone. During periods where a flare-up is not occurring, the virus isn't usually transmissible, although asymptomatic shedding can occur periodically in both HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections, even in people who have no visible outbreaks. Daily suppressive therapy with antivirals can reduce the frequency of asymptomatic shedding, lower the risk of transmission, and also prevent flare-ups of sores. However, they cannot completely clear the virus from the body. This study shows that huge numbers of people around the world are infected with herpes. In the U.S., herpes infections are also incredibly prevalent: CDC data shows that there were 572,000 new genital herpes infections in the U.S. in 2018 alone. In 2023, the CDC recorded 209,000 cases of syphilis, 600,000 cases of gonorrhea, and over 1.6 million cases of chlamydia. The researchers note that therefore there is a widespread need for more sophisticated treatment for HSV, as it affects so many and has such a large stigma attached to it. "Available prevention modalities, including condoms and antiviral therapy, are insufficient to control infection transmission and have, at best, had a modest population impact in reducing incidence rates," the researchers wrote. "There is a need for HSV prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines as a strategic approach to control transmission and to curb the disease and economic burdens of these infections." Do you have a tip on a science story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have a question about sexually transmitted infections? Let us know via science@newsweek.com. References Harfouche M, AlMukdad S, Alareeki A, et al. (2024) Sex Transm Infect. doi:10.1136/sextrans-2024-056307‘Absolute garbage’: Customer tests $299 Ninja SLUSHi and $199 Costco Iceman slushie machine with Crush soda. Which is better?

Democrats say they'll avoid election challenges on Jan. 6NoneCanada’s healthcare sector is looking at the cannabis industry. For years (mainly heading into federal legalization in Canada and a couple of years after legalization took hold), this sector rocketed higher as investors largely viewed these companies as the of the future. However, as many investors are well aware, this is a sector that’s since declined considerably, as hype and euphoria around the rise of cannabis as an investment class has waned. With that said, there are other companies operating in the healthcare technology space that are worth considering as well. This is a sector that continues to grow and become more diverse, so it’s a space I think is worth diving into. Here are two top Canadian healthcare stocks I think are worth taking a look at in 2025, given investors’ penchant for exposure to the healthcare sector right now. Canopy Growth One of the leading Canadian cannabis producers, ( ) is among the top options investors often consider when they look at this space. The company is a major producer of both recreational and medicinal marijuana and saw its valuation surge into 2021 amid a booming hype cycle in a number of high-growth industries. Unfortunately, as many investors can plainly see from the stock chart above, Canopy Growth is a shell of its former self. Having traded above $600 per share at its peak and now below $6 per share, this is a company that’s lost more than 99% of its value in roughly four years. Now, there have been volatile jumps and dips along the way in recent years, and some investors may be looking for any sort of exposure to Canadian cannabis companies like Canopy amid potential regulatory changes in the U.S. and other markets around the world. The thesis is that because Canada’s cannabis sector is so advanced, the company could garner interest as a potential global player as regulatory blockages are removed in key markets like the U.S. Personally, I’ve been bearish on Canopy in the past because this company’s previous valuation relative to the size of the Canadian market didn’t make sense. The market has caught on. However, there are some investors out there who may be looking at whether this sector and leaders like Canopy make sense at current prices. I’ll leave that up to the experts, but this is one part of the Canadian healthcare sector I think investors have to be very careful with right now. WELL Health Technologies In the healthcare technology space, ( ) is a top option for investors looking for outsized exposure to the Telehealth market. The company provides electronic medical record (EMR) solutions, a range of telehealth services, and a practice management software platform for providers. Thus, for those bullish on the pandemic-related trends of telemedicine continuing forward, this has become a hot stock for investors in recent years. The company’s stock chart above highlights some volatility similar to that of Canopy. However, this is a company that has roared back as investors price in a much more rosy growth environment moving forward. Indeed, the company’s recent Q3 results highlighted the strong organic growth the company has seen, with revenue increasing 23% year over year. Of course, there are risks to this space, but WELL Health has done a great job of building an international business with a competitive edge in certain markets within the fast-growing digital healthcare sector. With the U.S. and New Zealand markets key focal points for the company, it’s likely that investors will continue to see upside with this stock, so long as the company can push for greater profitability in addition to its revenue growth over time. In my view, WELL Health is the preferable stock of the two picks due primarily to the higher-growth nature of the digital healthcare space. This is one Canadian healthcare stock I think will continue to garner more attention over time and probably should.

Police File Criminal Complaint Against Philippines VP Sara Duterte for Assaulting Security – Days After Threatening to Kill PresidentIsrael said Tuesday it had bombed more than 350 military sites in Syria during the previous 48 hours, targeting “most of the strategic weapons stockpiles” in the country. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the wave of airstrikes in neighboring Syria was necessary to keep the weapons from being used against Israel following the Syrian government’s stunning collapse . Israel also acknowledged its troops were pushing into a border buffer zone inside Syria, which was established after the 1973 Mideast war. However, Israel denied its forces were advancing Tuesday toward the Syrian capital of Damascus. Life in the capital was slowly returning to normal after jihadi-led Syrian insurgents ousted President Bashar Assad over the weekend. People celebrated for a third day in a main square, and shops and banks reopened. The United States said Tuesday it would recognize and support a new Syrian government that renounces terrorism, destroys chemical weapons stocks and protects the rights of minorities and women. Syria's nearly 14-year civil war killed nearly half a million people and displaced half of the country’s prewar population of 23 million, becoming a proxy battlefield for regional and international powers. Here's the Latest: BEIRUT — Syria’s transitional government will made up of members from the rebel-led administration that ruled an insurgent stronghold in the country's northwest, the new prime minister said Tuesday, who called the task “a great challenge.” The caretaker Syrian government, which will oversee the country’s affairs until March, held its first meeting Tuesday since overthrowing former President Bashar Assad. It was attended by the departing Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi Jalali and other ministers along with new Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir. He had led the so-called “salvation government” in areas controlled by rebel groups — led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS — that have taken control of much of the country. “We were tasked by the general command with managing the affairs of the Syrian government during a transitional period,” Bashir said in a statement following the meeting in Damascus. He added that he hopes ministers in the former Syrian government will assist the new government during this transitional period. “The caretaker government was formed from a number of ministers of the revolutionary government, which is the Syrian Salvation Government, and this government is a temporary caretaker government that will last until March 2025, until the constitutional issues are resolved,” Bashir said. The insurgent alliance is led by a former senior al-Qaida militant , Abu Mohammed al-Golani, who cut ties with the extremist group years ago and has promised representative government and religious tolerance. SAYDNAYA, Syria — Tens of thousands came to Saydnaya Prison from all over Syria after the fall of former President Bashar Assad to search for their loved ones. The place so notorious for its horrors was long known as “the slaughterhouse.” For the past two days, all have been looking for signs of loved ones who disappeared years or even decades ago into the secretive, sprawling prison just outside Damascus. But hope gave way to despair Monday. People opened the heavy iron doors lining the hallways to find cells inside empty. With sledgehammers, shovels and drills, men pounded holes in floors and walls, looking for what they believed were secret dungeons, or chasing sounds they thought they heard from underground. They found nothing. Insurgents freed dozens of people from the Saydnaya military prison on Sunday when Damascus fell. Since then, almost no one has been found. “Where is everyone? Where are everyone’s children? Where are they?” said Ghada Assad, breaking down in tears. An estimated 150,000 people were detained or went missing in Syria since 2011 — and tens of thousands of them are believed to have gone through Saydnaya. WASHINGTON — The top U.S. military commander for the Middle East was on the ground in Syria on Tuesday, meeting with a Kurish-led, U.S.-allied force at several bases in the country's east, U.S. Central Command said. Army Gen. Erik Kurilla visited with U.S. military commanders and troops as well as the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces. It wasn’t clear if he met with SDF leader Mazloum Abdi, and U.S. Central Command did not respond to a request for details about his visit or with whom he met. U.S. officials said they did not know what his message to the SDF was. The U.S has about 900 troops in Syria, including forces working with Kurdish allies in the northeast to prevent any resurgence of the Islamic State group. In a press release, Central Command said Kurilla received an “assessment of force protection measures, the rapidly evolving situation, and ongoing efforts to prevent ISIS from exploiting the current situation.” Kurilla then went on to Iraq where he met with leaders in Baghdad. UNITED NATIONS – The United Nations says it still getting reports about the looting of warehouses with humanitarian aid in a number of areas in Syria, including around the capital Damascus. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters Tuesday that U.N. agencies and their partners are working to identify the extent of looting at the warehouses, including those of U.N. agencies and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent. Dujarric said U.N. aid officials report that “the humanitarian situation remains volatile across Syria, with reports of people continuing to be displaced.” Humanitarian officials reported that 25 trucks carrying U.N. aid crossed from Turkey to northwest Syria, which the situation is now relatively calm, the U.N. spokesman said. All 11 receptions opened in Idlib in the northwest to host newly displaced families were empty as of Monday, Dujarric said. In the northeast, he said, authorities report that as of Tuesday 100,000 people have been displaced due to fighting in Tal Rifaat and other parts of Aleppo governorate. Dujarric said the U.N.’s partners report that “reception centers in Tabqa and Raqqa have reached full capacity, and more than 200 sites – including municipal buildings, schools, mosques, and stadiums – are being used to accommodate newly displaced people.” BEIRUT — The Lebanese army said Tuesday that “unidentified gunmen” crossed the border from Syria into eastern Lebanon's Bekaa province and approached a Lebanese border post. In a statement, the army said the gunmen fired into the air and seized equipment from an evacuated Syrian army post in the outskirts of Kfar Fouq, near Rashaya al-Wadi, in the western part of Bekaa province. Lebanese army personnel responded with warning shots, forcing the group to retreat back into Syrian territory. The Lebanese army did not report any injuries or provide further details about the identity of the gunmen. WASHINGTON — Yemen’s Houthi rebels launched multiple drones and a missile at three commercial ships being escorted in the Gulf of Aden by U.S. Navy ships, a U.S. official said Tuesday. There was no damage and no injuries. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss military operations, said U.S. Navy destroyers, and Navy helicopter and a French Air Force aircraft shot down four of the drones and the missile. The three U.S. affiliated flagged ships were sailing east toward Djibouti. The Iran-backed Houthis have targeted shipping through the key waterway for more than a year, attacks they say are meant to force an end to Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza. JERUSALEM — Israel’s military said it bombed more than 350 sites in Syria during the previous 48 hours, targeting “most of the strategic weapons stockpiles” in the country. There is concern that, with the sudden collapse of the Syrian government, weapons stockpiles could be seized by jihadi militants. Warplanes hit what Israel said were Syrian air defense systems, military airfields, missile depots, and dozens of weapons production sites in the cities of Damascus, Homs, Tartus, Latakia, and Palmyra, the Israeli army statement said. In naval operations overnight Monday, Israeli missile ships struck two Syrian navy facilities simultaneously — Al-Bayda port and Latakia port — where the army said 15 Syrian naval vessels were docked. Israeli did not specify how many Syrian naval vessels were hit. The private security firm Ambrey said it had seen evidence that at least six Soviet-era Syrian navy missile ships were hit. Israeli officials said earlier that Israel also targeted alleged chemical weapons sites. JERUSALEM — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed Tuesday that his country’s military launched a wave of airstrikes across Syria to destroy the toppled government’s leftover “military capabilities,” and said Israel wants relations with the new government emerging Syria. Hours after Israeli warplanes pounded Syria, Netanyahu said Israeli doesn’t want to meddle in Syria’s internal affairs, but would take necessary steps to protect Israel's security and prevent jihadi militants from seizing the Syrian army assets. He warned that if the new Syrian government “allows Iran to re-establish itself in Syria or allows the transfer of Iranian weapons or any other weapons to Hezbollah, or attacks us -- we will respond forcefully and we will exact a heavy price from it.” He spoke in a video statement recorded at the Kirya military headquarters in Tel Aviv, after his first day of testimony in his corruption trial. DAMASCUS, Syria — In Umayyad Square in Damascus, Syrians celebrated the fall of President Bashar Assad for the third day on Tuesday despite Israeli airstrikes across the country. Insurgents who recently took control of the capital city tried to impose a new rule banning the celebratory gunfire. There were a few violators, and much less deafening gunfire. Protesters climbed the square's central monument to wave the Syrian revolutionary flag. On the ground, crowds chanted: “Out with Bashar! Out with Bashar!” Assad fled to Russia over the weekend after a lightning rebel offensive toppled his brutal police state. Demonstrators from different provinces marched in the square in groups, celebrating Assad's fall. Men on motorcycles and horses paraded into the square. One woman from Idlib province shouted that the Israeli strikes ruined the joy of ousting Assad. “Why are you striking us? We just deposed a tyrant,” she said. “Give us peace. Leave us alone,” said Ahmed Jreida, 22, a dentist student, when asked about the Israeli airstrikes. Hamzeh Hamada, 22, said this was the first time he had gone out to a demonstration. “We want the country to get better, to live in dignity and be like other countries that respect citizens’ rights and where there are no bribes,” he said. “We have suffered a lot from bribes. ... We had to bribe people for very minor things; things that should be our right.” Abdul-Jalil Diab was taking a stroll with his brothers in another square in western Damascus. He said he came back from Jordan the day Damascus fell. He was there studying German to prepare to move to Germany and said he is now reconsidering his plans. He was ecstatic, saying words can’t describe how he feels. “We are happy to get rid of the corrupt regime that was based on bribes. The whole country feels better. Everyone is happy and celebrating,” Abdul-Jalil Diab said. QAMISHLI, Syria — Residents of northeast Syria in the area around Qamishli airport said Tuesday they heard explosions overnight after an airstrike hit trucks loaded with rockets and ammunition that were heading to a military base in Tartab. “We don’t know the story. It was only in the morning when we realized they are trucks loaded with ammunition, leftovers of the former army, the regime,” said Ibrahim al-Thalaj, who lives near the base. He said residents assumed that the strikes were Israeli. Israel has carried out a heavy wave of airstrikes across Syria targeting military infrastructure after Syrian insurgents toppled the government of Bashar Assad. However, Turkish security officials said Tuesday that the strike in Qamishli was carried out by Turkey, targeting weapons and ammunition that were abandoned by the Syrian army and seized by Syrian Kurdish militants. The explosions lasted for over 20 minutes after the strike, and many houses in the surrounding area were damaged as a result, residents of the area said. “We just felt a strike hitting. It hit the first one (truck) and we saw the other trucks retreating back, and from there rockets and shells started flying over,” said Hamid al-Asaad, an eyewitness from Qub al-Zeki village in Qamishli. “We were sitting when these explosions started to hit the house,” said Mahmoud Hamza of Tartab. “It was hitting randomly and we didn’t know where it was coming from. ... Once we got out of our house, a rocket hit the house.” There were no details released by the local Kurdish administration regarding the explosions, but members of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces blocked the road to the base. BRUSSELS — The European Union’s top diplomat is concerned that Syria might violently fall apart like neighboring Iraq, or Libya and Afghanistan if its territorial integrity and the rights of minorities are not protected. “The transition will present huge challenges in Syria and in the region,” EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas told European lawmakers on Tuesday during a special hearing. “There are legitimate concerns about the risks of sectarian violence, extremist resurgence and the governance vacuum, all of which must be averted. We must avoid a repeat of the horrific scenarios of Iraq, Libya and Afghanistan,” she said. “The rights of all Syrians, including those of many minority groups, must be protected,” she said. “It is crucial to preserve the territorial integrity of Syria, and to respect its independence, its sovereignty, as well as the state institutions.” Kallas also said the collapse of the government has shown that Assad’s backers in Russia and Iran “could neither afford to do it any longer, nor had any interest of being present in the aftermath.” “They are weakened, distracted and overstretched in other theaters in the broader Middle East, but also in Ukraine,” she said. ANKARA, Turkey — Turkey’s intelligence agency, MIT, has attacked a convoy of trucks that was allegedly carrying missiles, heavy weapons and ammunition that were abandoned by the Syrian government and reportedly seized by Syrian Kurdish militias, Turkish security officials said Tuesday. The officials said 12 trucks, two tanks and two ammunition depots were “destroyed” in aerial strikes in the city of Qamishli, near the border with Turkey in northeast Syria. The officials provided the information on condition of anonymity in line with Turkish regulations. They did not say when the attack occurred. The officials said the intelligence agency detected that weapons left by the Syrian government forces were being moved to warehouses belonging to the Syrian Kurdish People’s Defense Units, or YPG. Turkey views the group as a terrorist organization because of its links to the banned Kurdish militants that have led a decadeslong insurgency in Turkey. According to the officials, he group was allegedly planning to use the equipment and supplies against Turkish security forces. By Suzan Fraser WASHINGTON — The White House is signaling its approval of Israel’s strikes against Syrian military and alleged chemical weapons targets and the seizure of a buffer zone in the Syrian Golan Heights after the fall of the Assad government. “These are exigent operations to eliminate what they believe are imminent threats to their national security,” White House national security spokesman John Kirby said Tuesday, saying the U.S. would leave it up to the Israelis to discuss details of their operations. “They have as always the right to defend themselves,” Kirby said. He declined to detail and U.S. intelligence cooperation with the Israelis that went into the strikes. Kirby said the White House was reasserting its support of the 1974 Golan Heights disengagement agreement, but didn’t criticize the Israeli seizure of the demilitarized zone. Israel has a long history of seizing territory during wars with its neighbors and occupying it indefinitely , citing security concerns. Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria in the 1967 Mideast war and annexed it in a move not recognized internationally, except by the United States. WASHINGTON — The Biden administration says it will recognize and support a new Syrian government that renounces terrorism, destroys chemical weapons stocks and protects the rights of minorities and women. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement Tuesday that the U.S. would work with groups in Syria and regional partners to ensure that the transition from President Bashar Assad’s deposed government runs smoothly. He was not specific about which groups the U.S. would work with. Blinken says Syrians should decide their future and that other countries should “support an inclusive and transparent process” and not interfere. “The United States will recognize and fully support a future Syria government that results from this process,” he said. “We stand prepared to lend all appropriate support to all of Syria’s diverse communities and constituencies.” DAMASCUS, Syria — Jihad Mustafa Shibani was taking his new motorcycle for a spin with a friend around the house of the deposed Syrian president in western Damascus on Tuesday. Shibani was released from prison a week before the capital Damascus fell, after he served two years on charges of buying his motorcycle using foreign currency on accusations he was dealing in dollars. He was tortured for 15 days and and given a quick trial where he was sentenced for two years, he said. He was released the day Aleppo fell to the insurgents. “Everything was banned in Syria. The (Assad loyalists) only could use it,” Shibani said. He said he has never been to this neighborhood, because it was taken over by Assad, his family and supporters. “For 50 years, my family’s house is near here, and we don’t know anything about it. ... The Syrian people had been oppressed, you can’t imagine.” Shibani said he has no fear of the rebel newcomers who have taken control of the country. “We are not afraid. There can be no one more unjust than Bashar. Impossible.” BEIRUT — Lebanon’s prime minister is in contact with security and judicial officials to follow up on reports that senior members of President Bashar Assad’s government have fled to Lebanon. Najib Mikati’s office quoted him as saying that Lebanon abides by international laws regarding people who cross its borders. Rami Abdurrahman of the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an opposition war monitor, said that several top security officials have entered Lebanon over the past two days. Abdurrahman added that Syria’s former intelligence chief Ali Mamlouk, who is wanted in Lebanon over two bombings in 2012 in the northern city of Tripoli that killed dozens, was allegedly brought to Lebanon by the Hezbollah militant group and was staying in a southern suburb of Beirut where the group has deep support. Lebanon’s Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi, whose ministry is in charge of border crossings, told reporters Tuesday that no person who is wanted in Lebanon entered the country through legal border crossings. There are dozens of illegal border crossings between Lebanon and Syria where people are usually smuggled in and out of Lebanon, but it was not possible to independently confirm whether Mamlouk had entered Lebanon. GENEVA — The United Nations says humanitarian operations in two major areas in northwestern Syria have resumed, deploying food, medical supplies, fuel and other needed services and supplies. Spokesman Jens Laerke of the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported that some health facilities were “overwhelmed” – in part due to staff shortages – and many border crossings have been closed, disrupting supply chains. OCHA said humanitarian operations in some parts of northwestern Syria were put on hold in the early days of the recent escalation, and resumed on Monday. “As of yesterday, all humanitarian organizations in Idlib and northern Aleppo have resumed operations,” Laerke told reporters at a U.N. briefing in Geneva. He said the three border crossings from Turkey used by the U.N. to deliver assistance into Syria remain open and “we are providing assistance in the northwest, including to those who have been newly displaced.” Even before the latest escalation, which led President Bashar Assad to flee the country, nearly 17 million people in Syria needed humanitarian assistance. More than 1 million have been displaced across Idlib, Aleppo, Hama and Homs since the escalation. JERUSALEM — Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz said Tuesday that Israel's military destroyed Syria’s fleet overnight and intends to establish a demilitarized zone “in southern Syria” to prevent attacks on Israel. He also issued a warning to Syria’s rebels, saying that “whoever follows Assad’s path will end up like Assad — we will not allow an extremist Islamic terrorist entity to act against Israel across its border while putting its citizens at risk.” Speaking at a naval base in Haifa, Katz said the Israeli navy “operated last night to destroy the Syrian fleet and with great success.” Video showing the smoking wreckage of what appeared to be small Syrian naval ships in the port at Latakia was broadcast by Saudi-owned television station Al-Hadath on Tuesday. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which has closely tracked the conflict since the civil war erupted in 2011, said Israel targeted Syrian warships, military warehouses and an air-defense facility on the coast. Katz added that he had instructed the army to establish a “defense zone free of weapons and terrorist threats in southern Syria, without a permanent Israeli presence, in order to prevent terrorism in Syria from taking root and organizing.” It was unclear if the demilitarized zone would reach beyond the buffer zone that Israel has taken over in the border area. Israel has a long history of seizing territory during wars with its neighbors and occupying it indefinitely , citing security concerns. Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria in the 1967 Mideast war and annexed it in a move not recognized internationally, except by the United States. DAMASCUS, Syria — Members of the Syrian government under ousted President Bashar Assad will gradually transfer power to a new transitional cabinet headed by Mohammed al-Bashir. The departing government met with al-Bashir for the first time since Assad fled Damascus over the weekend. Al-Bashir had previously led the “salvation government” running the rebel stronghold in northwest Syria. Al-Bashir told reporters after the meeting that the ministers discussed transferring the portfolios to the interim government during the transitional period until the beginning of March. He said that in the coming days the new government will decide on each ministry. DAMASCUS, Syria — Banks and shops are reopening in Damascus after the chaos and confusion of the first two days following the ouster of President Bashar Assad. Sadi Ahmad, manager of Syria Gulf Bank, said life is returning to normal. A customer who came to withdraw money from an ATM was surprised to see it functioning. At the historic Hamadiyeh market, fighters who seized power were still standing guard but shops had reopened — even an ice cream stand. Resident Maysoun Al-Qurabi said she was initially “against what happened,” referring to the insurgency, but changed her mind after seeing footage of rebels releasing inmates from the notorious Saydnaya prison. “People are at ease and secure now,” she said. “Before, people were hungry and scared.” DAMASCUS, Syria — Minority Christians in Syria have been living in a state of uneasy anticipation since insurgents headed by the Islamic militant group Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham took control after ousting President Bashar Assad. Mazen Kalash, a resident of Bab Touma, a Christian neighborhood in Damascus, said he wants to know the plans of the new government that will be formed by the rebels. “The important thing is to feel safe, bring order, law and respect to the citizens,” he said. “We need to be able to work whatever we want and do whatever we want without any interference from anyone.” The insurgents have so far attempted to reassure minorities that they will be protected. Large numbers of Syrian Christians, who made up 10% of the population, fled after the civil war erupted in 2011. Many of those who stayed supported Assad out of fear they might be targeted by Islamist insurgents. TEL AVIV, Israel — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lashed out at media during testimony at his corruption trial, which involves media moguls. “There has never been such a biased media in any democracy ... as there is in Israel,” Netanyahu told the court, describing his testy relationship with the press. He is accused of exchanging regulatory favors with media bosses for more positive coverage of himself and his family. He has denied wrongdoing. GENEVA — The U.N. envoy for Syria says armed groups that drove out President Bashar Assad have “been sending good messages” about national unity and inclusiveness but acknowledges that a Security Council resolution still counts the leading one as a terrorist group. With Syria’s future and stability still very much in flux since Assad’s departure over the weekend, Geir Pedersen suggested that the international community needs to help the country get through this turbulent moment. “We are still in what I would call a very fluid period. Things are not settled,” Pedersen told reporters at U.N. offices in Geneva on Tuesday. “There is a real opportunity for change, but this opportunity needs to be grasped by the Syrians themselves and supported by the U.N. and the international community.” Referring to Israeli military strikes in Syria, Pedersen said it was “extremely important that we now don’t see any action from any international country that destroys the possibility for this transformation in Syria to take place.” The insurgents are led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, which grew out of an al-Qaida-affiliate called the Nusra Front that the Security Council listed as a terror group in a 2015 resolution. “This is obviously a complicating factor for all of us,” Pedersen said. “But we also have to be honest, we have to look at the facts and to see what has happened during the last nine years.” “The reality so far is that the HTS and also the other armed groups have been sending good messages to the Syrian people,” he said. “They have been sending messages of unity, of inclusiveness, and frankly speaking, also, we have seen in (the captured cities of) Aleppo and in Hama ... reassuring things on the ground." Ahmad al-Sharaa, previously known by his nom de guerre Abu Mohammed al-Golani, the leader of the insurgency and the founder of both groups Nusra and HTS, cut ties with al-Qaida in 2016 and says he is committed to pluralism and religious tolerance. ANKARA, Turkey — Turkey has “strongly” condemned Israel’s advance into Syrian territory, saying it was in violation of a 1974 agreement on a buffer zone inside Syria. “We strongly condemn Israel’s violation of the 1974 Separation of Forces Agreement, its entry into the separation zone between Israel and Syria, and its advance into Syrian territory,” Turkey’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The ministry accused Israel of “displaying a mentality of an occupier” at a time when the possibility of peace and stability had emerged in Syria. The statement also reiterated Turkey’s support to Syria’s “sovereignty, political unity, and territorial integrity.” Israeli troops on Sunday entered the buffer zone that had been established after the 1973 Mideast war and the military said it would deploy in “several other places necessary for (Israel’s’) defense.” TEL AVIV, Israel — Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he works 17 to 18 hours a day and that he is engulfed in meetings, especially during the past year that Israel has been fighting wars. Netanyahu was testifying in his long-running corruption trial. He has denied charges of fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes in three separate cases. “If only I could steal away five minutes to enjoy some time with my wife,” he told the court Tuesday. TEL AVIV, Israel — An Israeli military official says troops plan to seize a buffer zone inside Syria as well as “a few more points that have strategic meaning.” The official spoke Tuesday on condition of anonymity in line with regulations. The official dismissed reports of a larger Israeli invasion as “rumors.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that Israeli forces were moving to control a roughly 400-square-kilometer (155-square-mile) demilitarized buffer zone in Syrian territory. The buffer zone between Syria and the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights was created by the U.N. after the 1973 Mideast war. Following the overthrow of President Bashar Assad, Israel sent troops into the buffer zone. It said the move was temporary and was aimed at preventing attacks. It said the 1974 agreement establishing the zone had collapsed and that Syrian troops had withdrawn from their positions. Israel has also carried out airstrikes across Syria in recent days targeting what it says are suspected chemical weapons and long-range rockets. Egypt and Saudi Arabia have condemned Israel’s incursion, accusing it of exploiting the disarray in Syria and violating international law. Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria in the 1967 Mideast war and annexed it in a move not recognized by the international community, except for the United States. The rest of the world views the strategic plateau as occupied Syrian territory. — By Joseph Krauss DAMASCUS, Syria — Israel’s air force has carried out hundreds of airstrikes in different parts of Syria as its ground forces move north of the Golan Heights along the border with Lebanon, according to an opposition war monitor. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Tuesday that since the fall of President Bashar Assad’s government, Israel’s air force has carried out more than 300 airstrikes against research centers, arms depots and military infrastructure across Syria, as well as a naval base along the Mediterranean coast. Associated Press journalists in Damascus witnessed intense airstrikes on the city and its suburbs overnight into Tuesday morning. Photographs posted online by activists showed destroyed missile launchers, helicopters and warplanes. Meanwhile, Israeli troops marched along the border with Lebanon and now control a long stretch on the Syrian side facing Lebanon’s Rashaya region, according to the war monitor's head, Rami Abdurrahman, and the Beirut-based Al-Mayadeen TV, which has reporters in Syria. Israeli troops are now about 25 kilometers (15 miles) southwest of Damascus, according to the monitor. DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Saudi Arabia has condemned Israel’s incursion into a buffer zone in Syria and a wave of Israeli airstrikes launched after the overthrow of President Bashar Assad. The Saudi Foreign Ministry said in a statement Tuesday that “the assaults carried out by the Israeli occupation government, including the seizure of the buffer zone in the Golan Heights, and the targeting of Syrian territory confirm Israel’s continued violation of the principles of international law and its determination to sabotage Syria’s chances of restoring its security, stability and territorial integrity.” Israel sent troops into a buffer zone inside Syria that had been established after the 1973 Mideast war. It said the move was temporary and was taken to prevent any cross-border attacks after Syrian troops withdrew. Israel has also carried out heavy airstrikes that it says are aimed at preventing suspected chemical weapons and long-range rockets from falling into the hands of extremists. Saudi Arabia has been in talks with the United States in recent years over normalizing relations with Israel in exchange for a U.S. defense pact, American assistance in establishing a civilian nuclear program and a pathway to the establishment of a Palestinian state. But the kingdom has also repeatedly condemned Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip, where it is at war with the Hamas militant group. Last month, Saudi Arabia’s crown prince and day-to-day ruler Mohammed bin Salman accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza , allegations Israel adamantly rejects.Homan taking death threats against him ‘more seriously’ after Trump officials targeted with violent threats

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The NBA fined guard $75,000 on Monday for criticizing the referees of Saturday's game between Minnesota and the visiting . In a news release, the league said Edwards used "inappropriate and profane language" during a postgame media session after the Timberwolves' loss. It marks the second time in two weeks that Edwards' postgame comments have cost him cash. The 23-year-old was fined $25,000 on Dec. 9 for using profane language during an interview after Minnesota won at Golden State 107-90 three days earlier. A two-time All-Star, Edwards leads the Timberwolves (14-13) with 25.6 points per game this season to go with 5.4 rebounds and four assists per contest.UnitedHealthcare CEO kept a low public profile. Then he was shot to death in New Yorknice88app 。

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NEW YORK -- He's making threats, traveling abroad and negotiating with world leaders. Donald Trump has more than a month and a half to go before he's sworn in for a second term. But the Republican president-elect is already moving aggressively not just to fill his Cabinet and outline policy goals, but to achieve those priorities . Trump has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico, prompting emergency calls and a visit from Canada's prime minister that resulted in what Trump claimed were commitments from both U.S. allies on new border security measures. The incoming president has warned there will be “ALL HELL TO PAY" if, before his inauguration on Jan. 20, 2025, Hamas does not release the hostages being held in Gaza . He has threatened to block the purchase of U.S. Steel by a Japanese company, warning "Buyer Beware!!!” And this weekend, Trump was returning to the global stage, joining a host of other foreign leaders for the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral five years after it was ravaged by a fire. On Saturday, he met with French President Emmanuel Macron — joined at the last minute by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy — and had plans to see Britain's Prince William also in Paris. Absent in Paris: lame duck President Joe Biden, who has largely disappeared from headlines, except when he issued a pardon of his son , Hunter, who was facing sentencing for gun crimes and tax evasion. First lady Jill Biden is attending in his place. “I think you have seen more happen in the last two weeks than you’ve seen in the last four years. And we’re not even there yet,” Trump said in an over-the-top boast at an awards ceremony Thursday night . For all of Trump's bold talk, though, it is unclear how many of his efforts will bear fruit. The pre-inauguration threats and deal-making are highly unusual, like so much of what Trump does, said Julian Zelizer, a political historian at Princeton University. “Transitions are always a little complicated in this way. Even though we talk about one president at a time," he said, “the reality is one president plus. And that plus can act assertively sometimes." Zelizer said that is particularly true of Trump, who was president previously and already has relationships with many foreign leaders such as Macron, who invited both Trump and Biden to Paris this weekend as part of the Notre Dame celebration. “Right now he’s sort of governing even though he’s not the president yet. He’s having these public meetings with foreign leaders, which aren't simply introductions. He's staking out policy and negotiating things from drug trafficking to tariffs," Zelizer said. Trump already has met with several foreign leaders, in addition to a long list of calls. He hosted Argentinian President Javier Milei in Florida at his Mar-a-Lago club in November. After the tariff threat, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a pilgrimage to Mar-a-Lago for a three-hour dinner meeting. Canadian officials later said the country is ready to make new investments in border security, with plans for more helicopters, drones and law enforcement officers. Last Sunday, Trump dined with Sara Netanyahu, wife of the Israeli prime minister. Incoming Trump aides have also been meeting with their future foreign counterparts. On Wednesday, several members of Trump's team, including incoming national security adviser Mike Waltz, met with Andriy Yermak, a top aide to Zelenskyy, in Washington, as Ukraine tries to win support for its ongoing efforts to defend itself from Russian invasion, according to a person familiar with the meeting. Yermak also met with Trump officials in Florida, he wrote on X . That comes after Trump's incoming Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, traveled to Qatar and Israel for high-level talks about a cease-fire and hostage deal in Gaza, according to a U.S familiar with the efforts, meeting with the prime ministers of both countries. There is no prohibition on incoming officials or nominees meeting with foreign officials, and it is common and fine for them to do so — unless those meetings are designed to subvert or otherwise impact current U.S. policy. Trump aides were said to be especially cognizant of potential conflicts given their experience in 2016, when interactions between Trump allies and Russian officials came under scrutiny. That included a phone call in which Trump's incoming national security adviser, Michael Flynn, discussed new sanctions with Russia’s ambassador to the United States, suggesting things would improve after Trump became president. Flynn was later charged with lying to the FBI about the conversation. Trump’s incoming press secretary Karoline Leavitt said that, “All transition officials have followed applicable laws in their interactions with foreign nationals.” She added: “World leaders recognize that President Trump is returning to power and will lead with strength to put the best interests of the United States of America first again. That is why many foreign leaders and officials have reached out to correspond with President Trump and his incoming team.” Such efforts can nonetheless cause complications. If, say, Biden is having productive conversations on a thorny foreign policy issue and Trump weighs in, that could make it harder for Biden “because people are hearing two different voices” that may be in conflict, Zelizer said. Leaders like Russia's Vladimir Putin and Netanyahu may also anticipate a more favorable incoming administration and wait Biden out, hoping for more a better deal. It also remains unclear how extensively the Biden administration has been kept apprised of Trump transition efforts. Although there is no requirement that an incoming administration coordinate calls and meetings with foreign officials with the State Department or National Security Council, that has long been considered standard practice. That is, in part, because transition teams, particularly in their early days and weeks, do not always have the latest information about the state of relations with foreign nations and may not have the resources, including interpretation and logistical ability, to handle such meetings efficiently. Still, the Biden and Trump teams have been talking, particularly on the Middle East, with the incoming and outgoing administrations having agreed to work together on efforts to free hostages who remain in held in Gaza, according to a U.S. official, who, like others, was not authorized to comment publicly about the sensitive talks and spoke on condition of anonymity. That includes conversations between Witkoff and Biden’s foreign policy team as well as Waltz and Biden national security adviser Jake Sullivan. Last month, Biden administration officials said they had kept Trump’s team closely apprised of efforts to broker a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah on the Israel-Lebanon border. “I just want to be clear to all of our adversaries, they can’t play the incoming Trump administration off of the Biden administration. I’m regularly talking to the Biden people. And so, this is not a moment of opportunity or wedges for them," Waltz said Friday in a Fox Business interview. But when it comes to immigration, Biden administration officials haven’t been entirely in the loop on discussions around how to execute on Trump’s pledge to deport millions of migrants, according to four administration officials with knowledge of the transition who spoke on condition of anonymity. That’s not terribly surprising given how differently the teams view migration. Trump’s team, meanwhile, is already claiming credit for everything from gains in the stock and cryptocurrency markets to a decision by Walmart to roll back diversity, equity and inclusion policies Trump opposes. “Promises Kept — And President Trump Hasn’t Even Been Inaugurated Yet,” read one press release that claimed, in part, that both Canada and Mexico have already pledged "immediate action” to help “stem the flow of illegal immigration, human trafficking, and deadly drugs entering the United States." Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has stopped short of saying Trump mischaracterized their call in late November. But she said Friday that Trump “has his own way of communicating, like when we had the phone call and he wrote that we were going to close the border. That was never talked about in the phone call.” Earlier this week, Mexico carried out what it claimed was its largest seizure of fentanyl pills ever. Seizures over the summer had been as little as 50 grams per week, and after the Trump call, they seized more than a ton. Security analyst David Saucedo said that "under the pressure by Donald Trump, it appears President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration is willing to increase the capture of drug traffickers and drug seizures that Washington is demanding.” Biden, too, tried to take credit for the seizure in a statement Friday night. ___ Associated Press writers Matthew Lee, Aamer Madhani, Colleen Long and Ellen Knickmeyer in Washington and Mark Stevenson in Mexico City contributed to this report.

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By ADAM GELLER Associated Press , CATHY BUSSEWITZ Associated Press , and MICHAEL LIEDTKE Associated Press NEW YORK -- He's one of the most famous corporate leaders in the world, delivering products embraced by billions. But it's the haters that companies like Mark Zuckerberg's Meta worry about. In an era when online anger and social tensions are increasingly directed at the businesses consumers count on, Meta last year spent $24.4 million on guards, alarms and other measures to keep Zuckerberg and the company's former chief operating officer safe. Some high-profile CEOs surround themselves with security. But the fatal shooting this week of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson while he walked alone on a New York City sidewalk has put a spotlight on the widely varied approaches companies take in protecting their leaders against threats. Thompson had no personal security and appeared unaware of the shooter lurking before he was gunned down. And today's political, economic and technological climate is only going to make the job of evaluating threats against executives and taking action to protect them even more difficult, experts say. "We are better today at collecting signals. I'm not sure we're any better at making sense of the signals we collect," says Fred Burton of Ontic, a provider of threat management software for companies. After Thompson's shooting, Burton said, "I've been on the phone all day with some organizations asking for consultation, saying, 'Am I doing enough?" Since the killing, some health insurers have taken steps to safeguard their executives and rank-and-file workers. Medica, a Minnesota-based nonprofit health care firm, said Friday it is temporarily closing its six offices for security reasons and will have its employees work from home. "Although we have received no specific threats related to our campuses, our office buildings will be temporarily closed out of an abundance of caution," the company said in a statement. A Medica... ADAM GELLER Associated Press , CATHY BUSSEWITZ Associated Press , MICHAEL LIEDTKE Associated Press

UNITY TOWNSHIP, Pa. — The search for a woman who is believed to have fallen into a sinkhole in western Pennsylvania shifted to a recovery effort after two treacherous days of digging through mud and rock produced no signs of life, authorities said Wednesday. Pennsylvania State Police spokesperson Trooper Steve Limani said during a news conference that authorities no longer believe they will find 64-year-old Elizabeth Pollard alive, but the search for her remains continues. “We’ve had no signs of any form of life or anything” to make rescuers think they should “continue to try and push and rush and push the envelope, to be aggressive with the potential of risking harm to other people,” Limani said. He noted oxygen levels below ground were insufficient. Emergency crews and others have tried to locate Pollard for two days. Her relatives reported her missing early Tuesday and her vehicle with her unharmed 5-year-old granddaughter inside was found about two hours later, near the sinkhole above a long closed, crumbling mine. Rescue workers continue to search for Elizabeth Pollard, who is believed to have disappeared in a sinkhole while looking for her cat, Wednesday in Marguerite, Pa. “We feel like we failed,” Limani said of the decision to change the status of the effort from a rescue to a recovery. “It’s tough.” Limani praised the crews who went into the abandoned mine to help remove material in the search for Pollard in the village of Marguerite, about 40 miles east of Pittsburgh.. “They would come out of there head to toe covered in mud, exhausted. And while they were getting pulled up, the next group’s getting dropped in. And there was one after the next after the next,” Limani said. Authorities said earlier that the roof of the mine collapsed in several places and was not stable. “We did get, you know, where we wanted, where we thought that she was at. We’ve been to that spot," Pleasant Unity Fire Chief John Bacha, the incident's operations officer, said earlier Wednesday. “What happened at that point, I don’t know, maybe the slurry of mud pushed her one direction. There were several different seams of that mine, shafts that all came together where this happened at.” Searchers used electronic devices and cameras as surface digging continued with the use of heavy equipment, Bacha said. In coming days, they plan to greatly widen the surface hole, with winter weather forecast in the region. Rescue workers search through the night in a sinkhole for Elizabeth Pollard, who disappeared while looking for her cat, Tuesday in Marguerite, Pa. Sinkholes occur in the area because of subsidence from coal mining activity. Rescuers used water to break down and remove clay and dirt from the mine, which has been closed since the 1950s. Crews lowered a pole camera with a sensitive listening device into the hole, but it detected nothing. Another camera lowered into the hole showed what could be a shoe about 30 feet below the surface, Limani said Tuesday. Searchers also deployed drones and thermal imaging equipment to no avail. Pollard's family called police about 1 a.m. Tuesday to say she had not been seen since going out at about 5 p.m. Monday to search for Pepper, her cat. The temperature dropped well below freezing that night. Limani said the searchers met with her family before announcing the shift from rescue to recovery. Pollard's son, Axel Hayes, described her as a happy woman who liked going out to have fun. She and her husband adopted Hayes and his twin brother when they were infants. She used to work at Walmart but recently was not employed. Hayes called Pollard “a great person overall, a great mother” who “never really did anybody wrong.” He said at one point Pollard had about 10 cats. “Every cat that she’s ever come in contact with, she has a close bond with them,” Hayes said. The top of a sinkhole is seen Tuesday in the village of Marguerite, Pa., where rescuers searched for a woman who disappeared. Police said they found Pollard's car parked behind Monday's Union Restaurant in Marguerite, about 20 feet from the sinkhole. Hunters and restaurant workers in the area said they had not noticed the manhole-size opening in the hours before Pollard disappeared, leading rescuers to speculate the sinkhole was new. Pollard lived in a small neighborhood across the street from where her car and granddaughter were found by state police. It's unclear what happened to the cat. In an era of rapid technological advancement and environmental change, American agriculture is undergoing a revolution that reaches far beyond the farm gate. From the food on consumer plates to the economic health of rural communities, the transformation of U.S. farming practices is reshaping the nation's landscape in ways both visible and hidden. LandTrust explores how these changes impact everyone, whether they live in the heartland or the heart of the city. The image of the small family farm, while still a reality for many, is increasingly giving way to larger, more technologically advanced operations. According to the USDA, the number of farms in the U.S. has fallen from 6.8 million in 1935 to about 2 million today, with the average farm size growing from 155 acres to 444 acres. This shift has profound implications for rural communities and the food system as a whole. Despite these changes, diversity in farming practices is on the rise. A landmark study published in Science , involving data from over 2,000 farms across 11 countries, found that diversifying farmland simultaneously delivers environmental and social benefits. This challenges the longstanding idea that practices boosting biodiversity must come at a cost to yields and food security. The adoption of precision agriculture technologies is transforming how farmers manage their land and resources. GPS-guided tractors, drone surveillance, and AI-powered crop management systems are becoming commonplace on many farms. These technologies allow farmers to apply water, fertilizers, and pesticides with pinpoint accuracy, reducing waste and environmental impact while improving yields. However, the digital divide remains a challenge. More than 22% of rural communities lack reliable broadband internet access, hindering the widespread implementation of AI and other advanced technologies in agriculture. While technology offers new opportunities, farmers are also facing significant economic challenges. The USDA's 2024 farm income forecast projects a 4.4% decline in net farm income from 2023, following a sharp 19.5% drop from 2022 to 2023. This financial pressure is compounded by rising production costs and market volatility. Climate variability adds another layer of complexity. Extreme weather events, changing precipitation patterns, and shifting growing seasons are forcing farmers to adapt quickly. These factors could reduce agricultural productivity by up to 25% over the coming decades without significant adaptation measures. But adapting requires additional financial resources, further straining farm profitability. In the face of these challenges, many farmers are turning to diversification as a strategy for resilience and profitability. The Science study mentioned earlier found that farms integrating several diversification methods supported more biodiversity while seeing simultaneous increases in human well-being and food security. Agritourism is one popular diversification strategy. In 2022, 28,600 U.S. farms reported agritourism income, averaging gross revenue of $44,000 from these activities. Activities like farm tours, pick-your-own operations, and seasonal festivals not only provide additional income but also foster a deeper connection between consumers and agriculture. The changing face of agriculture is directly impacting consumers. The rise of farm-to-table and local food movements reflects a growing interest in where our food comes from and how it's produced. If every U.S. household spent just $10 per week on locally grown food, it would generate billions of dollars for local economies. However, the larger challenges in agriculture can also lead to price fluctuations at the grocery store. The USDA's Economic Research Service projects that food-at-home prices will increase between 1.2% and 2.2% in 2024. Looking ahead, several innovations are poised to reshape agriculture: The transformation of American agriculture affects everyone, from the food we eat to the health of our environment and rural communities. Consumers have the power to support sustainable and diverse farming practices through our purchasing decisions. As citizens, they can advocate for policies that support farmers in adopting innovative and sustainable practices. The challenges facing agriculture are complex, but they also present opportunities for innovation and positive change. By understanding and engaging with these issues, everyone can play a part in shaping a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable food system for the future. This story was produced by LandTrust and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. Be the first to knowAP Trending SummaryBrief at 5:46 p.m. EST

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has warned his teammates that forward is a "top player in form" as Mikel Arteta urged his strikers to find their ruthless streak to keep their Champions League hopes on track. Gyökeres has become one of Europe's most prolific forwards after netting 24 goals in 17 games this season, attracting interest from a host of clubs including , , and the Gunners. Sporting host Arsenal at Estadio Jose Alvalade on Tuesday and Arsenal goalkeeper Raya said of Gyökeres: "We know his strengths, how he runs a lot in behind and scores a lot in one v. one and he is a top player in form. "We are going to try and keep him very, very quiet. Don't give him any chances. We have to step up defensively. Hopefully we can do a great job and keep a clean sheet." Arteta refused to be drawn on Gyökeres specifically, choosing instead to focus on Sporting's collective threat, having beaten Manchester City 4-1 in Ruben Amorim's final Champions League match before becoming United boss. Gyökeres scored a hat trick that night and since joining Sporting from Coventry in 2022, he has scored 69 goals in 67 games across all competitions. Asked how good the Sweden international is and how Arsenal can stop him, Arteta chose to focus on Sporting's remarkable unbeaten 19-game run this season, including 17 victories. "I would like to talk about the team, about the coaches and how phenomenal they have been," said Arteta. "The run they are in is incredible. That tells you that it is not only the quality, the setup, the ambition, it is something about the team energy that they have. That is a great challenge that we have tomorrow, to come here and make a statement and show we are capable against this kind of opponent. Be ourselves and win the game." Pushed further on Gyökeres, Arteta replied: "I understand the question, but they have a lot of individual qualities. That's why they can win games in various ways. And yes, in the specific position they have great players." Arsenal have won just one of their last eight away games in Europe and have not scored in their last four, a run dating back to last December's 1-1 draw against when the Gunners had already booked their spot in the knockout rounds. "Not all the games have been the same. It's true that within those games there were games that were when we had already qualified," Arteta said. "Something that is very true is that we have to improve those results and we have to find ways to understand what has been missing. Sometimes it's been performance, sometimes it's been other aspects. That's the next step we have to make as a team. "I wouldn't say that this is the most important thing but the efficiency that we have shown inside the box at this level with the chances that we are normally able to generate in the Champions League level, is not at the level required to win consistently. "I always say the Champions League is about boxes, small margins and details. You have to get all of those right to win, especially away from home." Sporting are second in the Champions League table, two points behind first-place Liverpool, while Arsenal sit in 12th on seven points after four matches.Centessa: Shift In Focus With ORX750 Development Continues To Pay Off

Exploring Space and Neurotherapeutics at the 2025 Ultrasound Event: A Journey into the Future of Medical UltrasoundBUCHAREST, Romania (AP) — Romania is reeling after a little-known, far-right populist secured the first round in the presidential election, beating the incumbent prime minister. Calin Georgescu, who ran independently, will face reformist Elena Lasconi in a Dec. 8. runoff after most local surveys predicted he would win less than 10% of the vote. Georgescu, 62, was ahead after nearly all ballots were counted with around 22.95%. According to local media, Georgescu in the past has praised Russian President Vladimir Putin as “a man who loves his country” and called Ukraine “an invented state.” He has also sparked controversy for describing Romanian fascist and nationalist leaders from the 1930s and 1940s as national heroes. Lasconi, of the progressive Save Romania Union party, or USR, followed with 19.17%. She beat by a slim margin incumbent Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu of the Social Democratic Party, or PSD, who stood at 19.15%. Lasconi on Monday warned that Romania is now in “a historical confrontation between preserving Romania’s young democracy ... and those who want to return Romania to the Russian sphere of influence.” She added: “Let us be very clear, Calin Georgescu is an open admirer of Vladimir Putin. He is open against NATO and the European Union ... He is for Romania’s isolation, which he calls neutrality ... And without NATO we are at the mercy of Russia.” Georgescu on Monday denied charges of being an extremist as “false, totally fake” and said he is “completely dedicated” to the Romanian people. “We remain directly linked to European values, but we must find our (own) values,” he said. “I’m not an extremist, I’m not a fascist, I’m a Romanian who loves his country.” Many observers have attributed Georgescu’s success to his TikTok account , which has 3.7 million likes and 274,000 followers. He gained huge traction and popularity in recent weeks. It is the first time in Romania’s 35-year post-communist history that the country’s most powerful party, the PSD, doesn't have a candidate in the second round of a presidential race, underscoring voters’ anti-establishment sentiment. Ciolacu's shocking defeat prompted him to submit his resignation as party leader on Monday. After polls closed on Sunday, the Central Election Bureau said 9.4 million people — about 52.5% of eligible voters — had cast ballots. Georgescu won 43.3% of the vote in Romania's large diaspora, while Lasconi got 26.8%. Romania's president serves a five-year term in the European Union and NATO member country and has significant decision-making powers in areas such as national security, foreign policy and judicial appointments. According to his website, Georgescu holds a doctorate in pedology, a branch of soil science, and held positions in Romania’s environment ministry in the 1990s. Between 1999 and 2012, he was a representative for Romania on the national committee of the United Nations Environment Program. His campaign positions included supporting farmers, reducing import dependence and ramping up local energy and food production. Georgescu's rising popularity will be tested when he faces Lasconi, who may attract more moderate voters who initially choose other candidates. Lasconi, a former journalist, told The Associated Press ahead of the vote that she saw corruption as one of Romania's biggest problems and expressed support for increased defense spending and continued aid to Ukraine. If she wins the final vote, she will be the first female president in Romania's history. Romania will also hold parliamentary elections on Dec. 1 that will determine the country’s next government and prime minister.( MENAFN - GetNews) In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology and innovation, Beaver Capital (Beaver Fund has emerged as a pioneering force driving transformative change. Established in 2019 and managed by BVVC, Beaver Capital is headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, a vibrant hub for groundbreaking research and entrepreneurship. The fund's mission is simple yet impactful: to invest in the most disruptive and influential scientific and technological advancements that have the potential to reshape industries, improve lives, and drive global progress. At its core, Beaver Capital embodies the spirit of the beaver an animal celebrated for its ingenuity, perseverance, and craftsmanship. These values form the foundation of the fund's philosophy, which emphasizes hard work, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence. Beaver Capital is not just a financial entity but a forward-thinking initiative that bridges the gap between visionary ideas and real-world applications. Its investments focus on cutting-edge technologies and business innovations that challenge traditional paradigms, paving the way for a more sustainable and interconnected future. Beaver Capital takes a deliberate and focused approach to investment, targeting areas that represent the forefront of technological advancement. These areas include artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, big data analytics, blockchain technologies, enterprise-level applications, and other emerging disruptive technologies. By prioritizing these fields, the fund aims to create a portfolio that reflects the most promising innovations of our time, fostering growth in sectors that have the potential to revolutionize industries and enhance quality of life. The fund's interest in artificial intelligence, for example, reflects its commitment to supporting technologies that can drive automation, improve decision-making, and transform the way we interact with the world. From machine learning to robotics, Beaver Capital invests in projects that harness the power of AI to address some of society's most pressing challenges. Similarly, its focus on virtual and augmented reality demonstrates a belief in the potential of immersive technologies to reshape experiences in fields ranging from gaming and entertainment to healthcare and education. Big data analytics represents another cornerstone of Beaver Capital's investment strategy. In a world where data is increasingly seen as the new oil, the ability to analyze and leverage information is critical to success. Beaver Capital seeks to back projects that unlock the power of big data, enabling organizations to make smarter decisions, optimize processes, and uncover new opportunities. This focus aligns with the fund's broader mission of supporting innovations that drive efficiency, scalability, and sustainability. Blockchain technology is another key area of interest for Beaver Capital, and its investments in this space have a direct synergy with the TIM Meme Coin ecosystem. As a decentralized, energy-efficient cryptocurrency built on the Binance Smart Chain, TIM Meme Coin aligns with Beaver Capital's emphasis on technological innovation and environmental responsibility. By investing in blockchain technologies, Beaver Capital supports the development of secure, scalable, and sustainable platforms that can transform industries ranging from finance to supply chain management. The fund's commitment to enterprise-level applications further highlights its focus on innovation that drives tangible results. From cloud computing to collaborative software, Beaver Capital invests in solutions that enable businesses to operate more effectively and efficiently. These investments are designed to support the digital transformation of organizations, ensuring that they remain competitive in an increasingly connected and data-driven world. Emerging disruptive technologies represent the final pillar of Beaver Capital's investment strategy. These are the innovations that have the potential to redefine markets, create entirely new industries, and change the way we live and work. By staying ahead of trends and identifying opportunities in nascent fields, Beaver Capital positions itself as a leader in shaping the future of technology and business. The location of Beaver Capital in Boulder, Colorado, is no coincidence. Boulder is a city renowned for its culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. By situating itself in this dynamic environment, Beaver Capital gains access to a rich ecosystem of talent, research, and emerging trends. This strategic positioning enables the fund to identify and nurture the brightest ideas and the most promising entrepreneurs, ensuring that its investments are grounded in excellence and potential. Beaver Capital's connection to the Beaver Foundation is another defining feature of its identity. As the financial and innovation arm of the foundation, Beaver Capital plays a crucial role in advancing the foundation's mission of promoting sustainability, technological progress, and community-driven development. This relationship creates a powerful synergy, with Beaver Capital driving financial growth and innovation while the Beaver Foundation focuses on broader societal and environmental impact. One of the most compelling aspects of Beaver Capital is its commitment to aligning financial success with positive global impact. The fund is not content with simply generating returns for its investors; it seeks to invest in projects that contribute meaningfully to society and the planet. This approach reflects a belief that financial and social returns are not mutually exclusive but can and should go hand in hand. The integration of Beaver Capital with the TIM Meme Coin ecosystem further illustrates this philosophy. By supporting blockchain technologies that prioritize energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, Beaver Capital demonstrates a commitment to leveraging innovation for the greater good. This alignment not only enhances the value and impact of TIM Meme Coin but also reinforces the fund's broader mission of creating a greener, more equitable future. Beaver Capital's investments are guided by a long-term vision. The fund recognizes that true innovation takes time and that the most impactful advancements often emerge from sustained effort and collaboration. By fostering relationships with entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry leaders, Beaver Capital ensures that its portfolio reflects not only the trends of today but also the possibilities of tomorrow. The story of Beaver Capital is one of vision, ambition, and impact. From its inception in 2019, the fund has been driven by a desire to support the most transformative ideas and innovations of our time. By investing in artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, big data analytics, blockchain technologies, enterprise-level applications, and emerging disruptive technologies, Beaver Capital positions itself as a catalyst for progress. As the world continues to grapple with complex challenges and unprecedented opportunities, Beaver Capital stands as a beacon of hope and possibility. Its investments are more than financial transactions; they are commitments to a future where technology and innovation drive positive change. With its roots in the values of the beaver and its focus on the cutting edge of science and technology, Beaver Capital is not just shaping the future; it is building it. Official website: Disclaimer: This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies (including product offerings, regulatory plans and business plans) and may change without notice. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. MENAFN16122024003238003268ID1108999863 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. (AP) — New York Jets wide receiver Davante Adams sat out practice Thursday with a hip ailment that makes his status for the game Sunday at Buffalo uncertain. Cornerback Sauce Gardner (hamstring), right tackle Morgan Moses (knee) and right guard Alijah Vera-Tucker (ankle) also were sidelined for the Jets' first full practice of the week. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who acknowledged Tuesday he's dealing with “a little MCL” issue in a knee but said “there's no way I'm not playing,” practiced fully. Adams was apparently injured in New York's 19-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams last Sunday, when he had seven catches for 68 yards and a touchdown. Adams, acquired from Las Vegas in October, has 56 receptions for 719 yards and six touchdowns on 94 targets in nine games for the Jets. He's 72 yards away from his fifth straight 1,000-yard season and sixth of his career. Adams and Rodgers are also tied with Miami's Dan Marino and Mark Clayton for the third-most TD connections (82), including playoffs, by a quarterback-wide receiver duo. Gardner sat out the second half of the loss to the Rams with the hamstring injury and could miss the game against the Bills. He sat out one game after injuring a hamstring against Seattle in Week 14. It's unclear if the injuries are related. Moses and Vera-Tucker have been playing through their ailments the past several weeks. Defensive lineman Quinnen Williams, who missed the game last Sunday with a hamstring injury, was limited Thursday at practice, as were left guard John Simpson (calf), defensive end Haason Reddick (neck), safety Tony Adams (ankle), conerback Michael Carter II (back) and rookie defensive lineman Braiden McGregor (ankle). AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFLKyKy Tandy scored a season-high 21 points that included a key 3-pointer in a late second-half surge as Florida Atlantic roared back to beat Oklahoma State 86-78 on Thursday in the opening round of the Charleston Classic in Charleston, S.C. Florida Atlantic (4-2) advances to play Drake in the semifinal round on Friday while the Cowboys square off against Miami in the consolation semifinal contest, also Friday. Oklahoma State led by as many as 10 points in the first half before securing a five-point advantage at halftime. The Owls surged back and moved in front with four and a half minutes to play. It was part of an 11-1 run, capped by a 3-pointer from Tandy that made it 75-68 with 2:41 remaining. Ken Evans added 14 points for Florida Atlantic, with Leland Walker hitting for 13 and Tre Carroll scoring 11. The Owls went 35-of-49 from the free throw line as the teams combined for 56 fouls in the game, 33 by Oklahoma State. Khalil Brantley led Oklahoma State (3-1) with 16 points while Robert Jennings added 14 points and 11 rebounds for the Cowboys, who hit one field goal over a 10-minute stretch of the second half while having three players foul out. The Owls were up by as many as seven points in the early minutes and by 13-10 after a layup by Carroll at the 11:32 mark of the first half. Oklahoma State leapfrogged to the front on Abou Ousmane's layup off a Brantley steal, fell behind again on a 3-pointer by Evans and then responded on a 3-pointer by Jennings to take a 17-16 lead. From there, the Cowboys stoked their advantage to double digits when Jamyron Keller canned a shot from beyond the arc with five minutes to play in the half. Florida Atlantic got a layup and a monster dunk from Matas Vokietaitis and a pair of free throws from Walker in a 6-2 run to end the half to pull within 39-34 at the break. Jennings and Ousmane tallied seven points apiece for Oklahoma State over the first 20 minutes, as the Cowboys led despite shooting just 33.3 percent from the floor in the half. Carroll and Vokietaitis scored seven points apiece to pace the Owls, who committed 11 turnovers that translated to seven points for Oklahoma State before halftime. --Field Level Media

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As science continues its evolution, discoveries and technologies can act like a master key that open doors leading to novel advancements. Artificial intelligence is one such key, making innovations possible by solving complex problems, automating tasks and enabling research that would have been impossible, or very time-consuming, without it. Mohammad Hosseini But do we want to do research on all topics, and shall we try the AI master key on every door? To explore this question, let’s consider the use of AI by genomics experts as an example. In recent years, genomics experts have added unbelievable depth to what we know about the world and ourselves. For example, genetics researchers have revealed facts about when certain animals and plants were domesticated. In another example, researchers used DNA from 30,000-year-old permafrost to create fertile samples of a plant called narrow-leafed campion. Importantly, genetic engineering has facilitated extraordinary advances in the treatment of complicated conditions, such as sickle-cell anemia. Thanks to AI, we are witnessing a dramatic increase in the pace and scalability of genomic exploration. But given the risks and possible consequences of AI use in science, should we rush headlong into using AI in all kinds of projects? One relevant example is research on Neanderthals, our closest relatives, who lived about 40,000 years ago. Neanderthals have been studied for several years now through genetic investigation of their fossils and their DNA. Genetic engineering can potentially use ancient DNA and genome editing methods to re-create a Neanderthal or aspects of a Neanderthal’s genetics and physiology. To do this, scientists could start by figuring out the DNA sequence of a Neanderthal by comparing it with the DNA of modern humans, because they are closely related. Then, scientists could use the gene-editing tool known as CRISPR to swap out parts of human DNA with Neanderthal DNA. This process would require a lot of trial and error and might not succeed soon. But based on what we know about genetics, if something is possible, AI can help make it happen faster, cheaper and with less effort. Scientists are excited about these developments because they could facilitate new discoveries and open up many research opportunities in genetic research. With or without AI, research on Neanderthals will proceed. But the extraordinary power of AI could give the final push to these discoveries and facilitate this kind of resurrection. At that point, the scientific community must develop norms and guidelines about how to treat these resurrected beings with dispositions very similar to humans. We would need to carefully consider their rights and well-being almost in the same way as when humans are involved and not as research subjects or artifacts of scientific curiosity. These ethical issues are discussed in more detail in a new paper published in the journal Nature Machine Intelligence. A more holistic question to consider is: Should we prioritize the use of resource-intensive AI, researchers’ time and public funds to resurrect extinct beings? Or should we invest these resources into conserving species that are critically endangered today to prevent biodiversity from more degradation? Hosseini is an assistant professor in the Department of Preventive Medicine at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. He wrote this for The Chicago Tribune . Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly!

A snowball fight at Kidd Brewer Stadium ? There were elements of that Saturday in Boone, North Carolina, when JMU football stood in the tunnel waiting to enter the field in its game against Appalachian State . In a snowy stadium, fans standing by the visitors tunnel hurled snowballs and other objects at the Dukes while they stood in the tunnel. The players had pads and helmets on, but not everyone in the tunnel did. JMU football coach Bob Chesney said even after coming out of the tunnel before the game, snowballs kept falling. He thought there were a few instances during the game. @SunBelt when do your officials plan on stopping the snowballs being thrown on the field at JMU players lined up for the snap? The warning should have been made at the beginning of the game with a penalty for this. pic.twitter.com/4vPADFgAf9 "I thought at one point on the PAT, a snowball hit our long snapper," Chesney said. "It's just what they're doing and who they are and it's exciting." JMU and Appalachian State have developed a rivalry since the Dukes moved to the Sun Belt. In 2022 — during the Dukes' transition year before they were officially part of FBS — JMU came back to win after being down 28-3. In 2023, the Mountaineers beat the Dukes at home in overtime with College GameDay in town. It was JMU's first game at Kidd Brewer Stadium since that comeback win two years ago. The Dukes were greeted with snowballs, among other projectiles. Chesney said he appreciated the fanfare, but was concerned for his staff members who had to go back and forth through the tunnel without protection. "You didn't love going up and down the ramp with ice (thrown) at you," Chesney said. "Especially with coaches and everybody else in there without helmets on. "I think they need to do a little bit of a better job of making sure they protected those people." Those staff members included JMU coaches, support staff and athletic trainers among others. At one point, Chesney's son was out there as well. I mean ... is this not a penalty? Kind of insane the Sun Belt threatened JMU fans for throwing streamers with penalties yet this goes unnoticed https://t.co/w3A1D744Uq As of Monday, Chesney hadn't received official word from the Sun Belt about what happened. He has not heard anything from JMU athletic director Mark Roan, either. "It was interesting coming up through that tunnel," Chesney said, "the unprotected areas with the ice being thrown over, that was an interesting moment, especially with the coaches and our trainers and everybody else. "It was not the greatest situation, but I think we all survived. I thought they could have done a better job, especially with the security people watching them. I think there could have been a little more done to protect those people, especially without the helmets on." Savannah Reger (804) 649-6772 sreger@timesdispatch.com @SavannahReger17 on X Get local news delivered to your inbox!The Carolina Panthers announced Monday that they’ve placed DE Charles Harris on waivers. Harris is tied for the team lead in sacks, so this is a bit of a surprise. Harris, 29, is a former first-round pick by the Dolphins in the 2017 NFL Draft out of Missouri. He was in the final year of his four-year, $10,843,739 rookie contract when the Dolphins traded him to the Falcons. Harris had his fifth-year option declined by the Falcons and earned a base salary of $1,943,692 in 2020. He signed a one-year, prove-it deal with the Lions for the 2021 season. Detroit brought him back on a two-year deal worth $14 million in March 2022 and he became an unrestricted free agent this past offseason before eventually joining the Panthers. In 2024, Harris has appeared in nine games for the Panthers and recorded 21 tackles and three sacks. This article first appeared on NFLTradeRumors.co and was syndicated with permission.

Both LEGO-fans and gearheads have one thing in common – they’re incredibly passionate. They obsess over tiny details, are always up for a challenge, and champion their cause with a puffed chest. In short, they’re diehards, so when LEGO launches a car model on its brick-based platform, you best bet it drives both communities wild! However, if writing about LEGO for almost a decade now has taught me anything, they’re incredibly selective. The company doesn’t take is catalog casually – especially when it comes to collaborations. A lot of planning, execution, marketing, and licensing goes behind each and every single collaboration, whether it’s LEGO’s Harry Potter collection, Star Wars collection, Marvel/DC collection, or any of their LEGO Technic sets in partnership with car brands. Sadly, this means a LOT of truly iconic cars still haven’t received their very own LEGO set yet – either because research doesn’t show it’ll sell well, or because there’s a legal hiccup preventing LEGO from building a kit of our favorite cars. We gathered a list of 10 absolutely iconic cars that STILL don’t have their own LEGO sets and entrusted AI to help visualize what these sets could possibly look like... after all, a boy can dream, can’t he?! The Bugatti Veyron gets the top spot on this list purely for the fact that it was the first time I saw a car and went ‘wow’. I was a kid back when the Veyron dropped, and I remember how it sparked a love for automobiles in me. This LEGO set would work – I just know it, but for some reason, the Bugatti Veyron (the car that held the production speed record for 5 years) doesn’t have a LEGO set yet. The Bugatti Chiron and Bolide, however, have their own LEGO sets. What I love about this design is that it’s the first in a line of new-age Bugattis with its iconic visual language. The inverted horseshoe grill, the C-shaped rear pillar, the blue and black color combination, all just clicked together with the Veyron, making the modern-day icon it is today. The LEGO set would capture this beauty in its own inimitable style. We lost a true design legend this year – Marcello Gandini. Lauded as the father of the golden age of automotive design, Gandini (along with his studio Bertone) helped bring us an entire fleet of iconic cars from brands like Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Ferrari, Lancia Stratos, and Lamborghini. While the Lamborghini Countach (a Gandini original) has its own LEGO set, the gorgeous Miura doesn’t. When the Miura released in 1966, it was the fasted production car, boasting a top speed of 276 km/h (171 mph). However, when the Miura wasn’t a motion blur in your periphery, it was a work of art. The gorgeous headlights integrated ‘eyelashes’ into their outline, giving the car a demure and mindful character that was instantly shattered when the car took to the roads like a beast. You’d think that by now, a car as groundbreaking and highly revered as the Enzo (named after the founder of Ferrari) would have its own LEGO set—after all, we’ve seen classic Ferraris like the F40 and recent models like the Daytona SP3 get their chance to shine in bricks. But the Enzo, a car that set new benchmarks for hypercar design and performance, still waits in the wings. When the Enzo launched in 2002, it pulled from the very essence of Ferrari’s motor racing experience, pushing the boundaries of what a road-legal car could achieve. Its V12 engine, carbon fiber body, and aerodynamic prowess showcased Maranello’s dedication to technological excellence. Meanwhile, the car’s signature scissor-like doors, elongated snout, and minimal interior exuded an unmistakable sense of speed and purpose. A LEGO Enzo would capture all these elements—the featherweight components, the purposeful stance, and the soul of a racing thoroughbred—transformed into a timeless tribute any enthusiast could display and admire. The Lancia Stratos HF Zero is one of those visionary concept cars that shattered the norm of a car having a boring silhouette. Its impossibly low, wedge-shaped form felt like a daring departure from anything the world had seen, the kind of car that made one pause and question what a car could be. It’s baffling that LEGO hasn’t turned this iconic vision into a collectible brick set—especially considering how this single concept car reshaped our understanding of automotive design and laid the groundwork for the production Stratos that followed. Unveiled in 1970, the Stratos HF Zero came from the brilliant mind of Marcello Gandini at Bertone—yes, the same genius who penned the Miura and countless other classics. With its radical silhouette, hidden headlights, and a cockpit that resembled a fighter jet’s canopy, the HF Zero didn’t just push boundaries; it blew them apart. Reimagining this concept as a LEGO set would mean capturing the drama of Gandini’s wedge era, the audacity of the car’s geometric profile, and the innovative spirit that defines one of the most influential show cars in automotive history. The Rolls-Royce Phantom has long stood as a benchmark for automotive luxury and refinement, setting standards that rival brands continuously strive to meet. Despite its status as the epitome of comfort and exclusivity, it has yet to appear as an official LEGO set. Considering LEGO’s ventures into luxury and classic car recreations—like the Ferrari F40 or Aston Martin DB5—it’s surprising that the Phantom, with its nearly century-long heritage, has remained conspicuously absent. A Phantom-inspired LEGO set would bring together the subtle grace of its sweeping fenders, the timeless appeal of its sculpted bonnet, and the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy figurehead, all perfectly balanced against a plush, opulent interior. Such a model would pay homage to the craftsmanship and engineering prowess that go into creating a Rolls-Royce, capturing every meticulously considered detail in plastic form and presenting it as a fitting tribute to one of the world’s most prestigious automobiles. The Bentley Continental GT is the car that redefined the grand tourer segment for the modern age, pairing effortless performance with uncompromising luxury. Its muscular proportions, signature matrix grille, and sweeping roofline all signal a presence that’s as powerful as it is refined. Despite its enduring popularity and status as a symbol of British motoring excellence, the Continental GT still hasn’t received the LEGO treatment it so rightfully deserves. A Continental GT LEGO set would bring to life the meticulous detailing that goes into each Bentley—every subtle crease in its bodywork, that distinctive oval headlight design, and an interior that harmonizes wood, leather, and polished metal accents with engineering finesse. It would offer builders the chance to recreate a car that captures the essence of a European grand tourer, celebrating Bentley’s legacy of craftsmanship and performance in a form that’s accessible, tactile, and timeless. The Lamborghini Gallardo signaled a new era for the renowned Italian marque, bringing Lamborghini’s exotic styling and high-revving V10 powertrain to a broader audience than ever before. It became one of the brand’s most successful models, synonymous with that unmistakable wedge profile, signature scissor doors, and a driving experience that balanced thrilling performance with everyday usability. Yet, despite its role in revitalizing the brand and becoming a fixture on bedroom posters worldwide, the Gallardo has never received its own official LEGO set. The Countach, Huracán, and Sián have, making one wonder why other models from the raging bull haven’t gotten their own LEGO set. A LEGO Gallardo would pay homage to the car’s razor-sharp lines, its bold aerodynamic intakes, and that roaring naturally aspirated V10. A meticulously crafted brick model could capture the spirit of this modern classic, blending the art of supercar design with LEGO’s attention to detail. From the sleek body contours to the engine bay’s hidden mechanical wonders, a Gallardo LEGO set would serve as a fitting tribute to a Lamborghini that truly set the stage for the company’s 21st-century renaissance. Let’s step away from reputed legacy brands and their iconic cars and take a look at a few modern icons too, a la the electric powertrain. The Tesla Model 3 changed the world’s perception of electric vehicles, transforming them from niche curiosities into mainstream essentials. Its minimalistic interior, dominated by a central touchscreen interface, coupled with sleek aerodynamic lines, reflects a future-forward approach to design. The Model 3’s popularity and global influence are undeniable, yet it still hasn’t been reinterpreted in the iconic form of LEGO bricks—despite LEGO having tackled a range of electric concepts and futuristic designs in the past. A LEGO Model 3 would celebrate the refinement and subtlety that Tesla brought to everyday driving, capturing the car’s clean silhouette, flush door handles, and that telltale panoramic glass roof. Recreating the seamless front fascia and understated wheel designs would pay homage to how the Model 3 reshaped the automotive landscape, showing that a car can be both approachable and groundbreaking. It would be a fitting tribute to a vehicle that ushered in a new era of accessible, well-engineered EVs. You can’t talk about EVs without talking about Tesla’s long-standing rival, Rivian. The Rivian R1 series—comprising both the R1T pickup and R1S SUV—represents a bold new chapter in rugged automotive adventure, blending electric propulsion with robust versatility. These vehicles challenge traditional truck and SUV design norms, boasting exceptional off-road capabilities, high-tech touches, and a clean, modern aesthetic. Yet, despite Rivian’s rapid ascent and the industry’s growing enthusiasm for electric adventure vehicles, these innovative models still haven’t been adapted into LEGO form. In fact, both pickup trucks and EVs are a vastly underrepresented category in LEGO’s arsenal. A LEGO Rivian R1 build would capture the spirit of sustainable exploration, highlighting the vehicles’ signature front lightbar, practical gear storage solutions, and refined interior materials. Meticulously recreating the R1’s unmistakable silhouette with colorful bricks would celebrate the harmony of advanced engineering and purposeful design that characterizes Rivian’s vision. Such a set would not only pay homage to a forward-thinking automotive brand but also inspire builders to envision a future where electric powertrains and outdoor escapades go hand in hand. The Polestar 2 might not boast the dramatic angles of a supercar, but give it more than a passing glance and you’ll realize it’s quietly rewriting what a modern vehicle can be. There’s something almost philosophical in how this Swedish EV embraces simplicity: from its crisp lines that reject the idea of a front grille, to the cabin’s atmosphere that feels more akin to a chic Nordic apartment than a traditional automobile interior. When I first encountered the Polestar 2, I was struck by its sense of calm—like meeting someone who doesn’t need to raise their voice to be heard. A LEGO rendition of this car wouldn’t just be about capturing taillight signatures or wheel designs; it would reflect the Polestar 2’s underlying ethos. Instead of dramatic engine roar or over-the-top bodywork, you’d be building a model that represents quiet confidence, responsible engineering, and a dedication to doing more with less. The challenge wouldn’t lie in constructing flashy spoilers or carbon-fiber imitations, but in conveying the subtlety and thoughtfulness that makes the Polestar 2 a new kind of icon in automotive design.

Ahead of his second $1million tournament championship on Friday night, Impa Kasanganay is only going to make one big purchase with his winnings. The PFL star is taking on his fifth fight since the beginning of last year, and has transformed his life from homelessness to becoming a millionaire by winning last season’s light-heavyweight title. Between seasons, he took on Bellator champion Johnny Eblen in a lucrative Saudi Arabian bout this February. And now he is set for his second world title final on Friday night back in the Kingdom’s capital city of Riyadh. He takes on Dovlet Yagshimuradov, and insists he could have fought even more during his unprecedented period of activity. ALL ELBOWS: PFL announces major rule change three days before $1million world championship tournament finals Impa Kasanganay maintains a connection to homeless past after winning $1million prize In a recent video with on PFL social media, Impa Kasanganay returned to the area where he used to camp after going broke when he was released from the UFC . And he insists it is vitally important that he maintain a link to his difficult past now that he has found success. “There’s a verse I like that says ‘be joyful when you face trials of any kind’, so that breeds perseverance and endurance,” he told Bloody Elbow in an exclusive chat. “I believe people need that and someone told me once ‘fighters are the entertainer’s entertainer’. “Fighters help people, you watch us go into battle and everyone has felt something like that kind of during their life, right? They’re battling with something and they can relate to that. “I think God made me go through those trials. Did I choose to go through that? Did I really want to live in my car for a year? The year was cool and the car was alright but I think when you go through moments like that it’s not just about you. “God uses you to reflect him and work on your life. Now people get to use that moment as an inspiration and it’s a great honor to get to fight in Riyadh, the United States, Africa and beyond. I take that as a great responsibility. Impa Kasanganay will buy a motorcycle with second $1million PFL prize With his first $1million title win, Kasanganay invested in a media company as well as finally achieving his dream of opening a gym. ‘Impa’s Refinery’ in Florida allows beginners and professionals to train in top facilities, and was his biggest purchase after taking home the check. A second victory would appear to allow him some more flexibility with his spending, particularly after already taking a big money fight in February. But he promises that he won’t let himself get carried away after spending the past year learning about business in Harvard during his time off training. “No stupid purchases,” he insisted. “You learn a lot in a year! But I have a team, we’re building out a media company and we’re entering a film festival. I’ve got a lot of great people around and we’re doing a lot of great things. “I think you take on different challenges with success, things you plan for and things you don’t, you learn along the way. The Refinery, I put a lot back into that with trainers and a full staff, I take care of my family, bring everyone around each other. “If I win this year, I’d like a new motorcycle, that’d be about it. Anything I want to do from now on I can build, and it’s cool watching different companies and how they overcame different challenges... I want to invest in my education, maybe a new motorcycle and then hit new heights.” Impa Kasanganay plots Johnny Eblen rematch after world title clash While Kasanganay insists that he will ‘probably disappear for a little bit’ after the finals, he already has one eye on a particular rematch. The sole red mark on his record in the ten bouts since the summer of 2022 is Bellator middleweight champion Johnny Eblen , against whom he wants to avenge his loss. The pair’s ‘Battle of the Champions’ showdown in February saw Eblen emerge victorious by a hair in a razor-close split decision. But the PFL star is confident that he did enough to win, and believes their paths may cross again some day. “I saw Johnny fight Fabian Edwards , he’s a champion and he’s a warrior,” Kasanganay continued. “He brought it to Fabian and then Fabian brought it to him at the end, then Johnny found a way to win. “I know I won that fight, I claim victory, and I’m always grateful for that. Without that fight I don’t believe I’d be the person and the fighter that I am today, this is no shot at him, we’ve had a private conversation and there’s respect. “I respect the fact that he has called me out, so soon enough that fight will come. Right now on Friday I’ll claim this victory and that’s my focus, but after that see me in January and I’m ready to go.” Who is Francis Ngannou? Inside the former UFC heavyweight champion’s journey from poverty to combat sports superstardomAs science continues its evolution, discoveries and technologies can act like a master key that open doors leading to novel advancements. Artificial intelligence is one such key, making innovations possible by solving complex problems, automating tasks and enabling research that would have been impossible, or very time-consuming, without it. Mohammad Hosseini But do we want to do research on all topics, and shall we try the AI master key on every door? To explore this question, let’s consider the use of AI by genomics experts as an example. In recent years, genomics experts have added unbelievable depth to what we know about the world and ourselves. For example, genetics researchers have revealed facts about when certain animals and plants were domesticated. In another example, researchers used DNA from 30,000-year-old permafrost to create fertile samples of a plant called narrow-leafed campion. Importantly, genetic engineering has facilitated extraordinary advances in the treatment of complicated conditions, such as sickle-cell anemia. Thanks to AI, we are witnessing a dramatic increase in the pace and scalability of genomic exploration. But given the risks and possible consequences of AI use in science, should we rush headlong into using AI in all kinds of projects? One relevant example is research on Neanderthals, our closest relatives, who lived about 40,000 years ago. Neanderthals have been studied for several years now through genetic investigation of their fossils and their DNA. Genetic engineering can potentially use ancient DNA and genome editing methods to re-create a Neanderthal or aspects of a Neanderthal’s genetics and physiology. To do this, scientists could start by figuring out the DNA sequence of a Neanderthal by comparing it with the DNA of modern humans, because they are closely related. Then, scientists could use the gene-editing tool known as CRISPR to swap out parts of human DNA with Neanderthal DNA. This process would require a lot of trial and error and might not succeed soon. But based on what we know about genetics, if something is possible, AI can help make it happen faster, cheaper and with less effort. Scientists are excited about these developments because they could facilitate new discoveries and open up many research opportunities in genetic research. With or without AI, research on Neanderthals will proceed. But the extraordinary power of AI could give the final push to these discoveries and facilitate this kind of resurrection. At that point, the scientific community must develop norms and guidelines about how to treat these resurrected beings with dispositions very similar to humans. We would need to carefully consider their rights and well-being almost in the same way as when humans are involved and not as research subjects or artifacts of scientific curiosity. These ethical issues are discussed in more detail in a new paper published in the journal Nature Machine Intelligence. A more holistic question to consider is: Should we prioritize the use of resource-intensive AI, researchers’ time and public funds to resurrect extinct beings? Or should we invest these resources into conserving species that are critically endangered today to prevent biodiversity from more degradation? Hosseini is an assistant professor in the Department of Preventive Medicine at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. He wrote this for The Chicago Tribune . Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly!

Incredible Growth of Building Energy Management Systems Market Key Drivers: Industry Size, Share, and Growth ForecastShould AI be used to resurrect extinct species like the Neanderthal? | Mohammad Hosseini

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HERENTALS, Belgium (AP) — Two-time Olympic champion Remco Evenepoel sustained multiple fractures, a dislocated collarbone and lung contusions when he crashed into a vehicle while training in Belgium on Tuesday. The 24-year-old Evenepoel broke his right shoulder blade, right hand and a rib, his Soudal Quick-Step team said. He was scheduled for surgery after further examinations revealed "contusions on both lungs and a luxation of the clavicle.” “The clavicle will be operated on this evening, which if successful, should allow Remco to leave hospital tomorrow,” the team said in an update Tuesday night. “There will then be a two-week period of immobilization required following this, after which a plan for his return to training can be made.” Evenepoel had been treated at a hospital in Anderlecht before being moved to a facility in Herentals. Belgian media reported Evenepoel was unable to avoid the door of a post office vehicle when it was swung open. He never lost consciousness, but the impact was heavy enough to break the frame of his bicycle. Photographs online showed Evenepoel sitting beside an ambulance, wrapped in a blanket and holding his arm. Evenepoel was the first cyclist to sweep the road race and time trial at an Olympic Games when he triumphed in both in Paris in August. A two-time world champion, Evenepoel also won the Spanish Vuelta in 2022 and finished third in the Tour de France this year. “He was lying on the ground for a while,” said Bart De Pelseneer, who has a butcher’s shop nearby. “It was clearly a heavy blow. The door of the postal car was also completely twisted. His bike was completely broken, they folded it up like a wheelchair. “When I went to look, he looked deathly pale. The emergency services gave him a Coke. His wife, Oumi, was here at about the same time as the emergency services.” AP cycling: https://apnews.com/hub/cyclingState MPs to raise pending Split issues, Polavaram in Parliament

The leader Supriya Sule on Sunday said vowed to rebuild the party with renewed commitment. The NCP (SP), which won 10 seats in the Maharashtra Assembly election 2024, respects people's mandate and pledged to work towards a capable, inclusive and progressive state, Sule said. In a statement on X, the Supriya Sule promised to rebuild their party and said it would move forward with determination despite its dismal show. Her party and its Maha Vikas Aghadi allies Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) collectively bagged only 46 of the state's 288 assembly seats. "We respect and humbly accept the verdict of the people in the assembly elections. This result is a moment for deep reflection and renewal. We will introspect, learn, and rebuild with honesty, hard work, and an unshakable commitment to the values we stand for," Sule stated in a social media post. She stressed that her party was committed to creating a capable, inclusive, and progressive Maharashtra. ¿Our vision of a capable, inclusive, and progressive Maharashtra remains unchanged. We reaffirm our pledge to fight for the rights, dignity, and self-respect of farmers, workers, women, youth, and every marginalised section of society,¿ Sule stated. Sule said that her party will continue to carry forward the ideals of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, and social reformers like Jyotiba Phule. "We are determined to carry forward the timeless ideals of Shiv-Shahu-Phule-Ambedkar with renewed energy and purpose," she wrote on X. Supriya Sule congratulated those who had won in the elections. "We hope you will serve Maharashtra with dedication and prioritise the welfare of every citizen," she said. The MP, the daughter of NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, expressed gratitude to the voters, party workers, their MVA allies and the authorities for facilitating the elections. "A heartfelt thank you to all voters, the diligent workers and leaders of NCP (SP), our allies, the Election Commission, police, administration, media, and everyone who contributed to making this election a vibrant celebration of democracy," Sule added, according to the PTI. Sule said the party would remain focused on its goals and continue its efforts to serve the people of Maharashtra. "We remain steadfast. Our fight continues with humility, with courage, and with the hope of building a Maharashtra that fulfils the dreams of its people," she added, as per the PTI. Sharad Pawar suffered the worst-ever defeat in his political career in Maharashtra polls with the NCP faction led by him winning only 10 seats in the 288-member House. His MVA partners Congress and Sena (UBT) got 16 and 20 seats, respectively, the news agency reported. The ruling scored a massive victory with the BJP winning 132 seats, Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde emerging victorious in 57, and NCP headed by Ajit Pawar grabbing 41 seats. (with PTI inputs)Tech companies led a broad rally for U.S. stocks Tuesday, a boost for the market in a holiday-shortened trading session. The S&P 500 rose 0.8% in midday trading. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 273 points, or 0.6%, as of 12:18 p.m. Eastern time. The tech-heavy Nasdaq composite was up 1%. Chip company Broadcom rose 2.9%, while semiconductor giant Nvidia, whose enormous valuation gives it an outsize influence on indexes, rose 0.8%. Super Micro Computer jumped 5.8%. Tesla climbed 5.1%, one of the biggest gains among S&P 500 stocks. Amazon.com rose 1.6% American Airlines slipped 0.1% after the airline briefly grounded flights nationwide due to a technical issue. U.S. Steel rose 1.1% a day after an influential government panel failed to reach consensus on the possible national security risks of the nearly $15 billion proposed sale to Nippon Steel of Japan. NeueHealth surged 68.9% after the health care company agreed to be taken private in a deal valued at roughly $1.3 billion. Treasury yields rose in the bond market. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.61% from 4.59% late Monday. European markets were mostly higher. Markets in Asia mostly gained ground. U.S. markets will close at 1 p.m. Eastern and stay closed Wednesday for Christmas. Wall Street has several economic reports to look forward to this week, including a weekly update on unemployment benefits on Thursday. Tuesday’s rally comes as the stock market enters what’s historically been a very cheerful season. The last five trading days of each year, plus the first two in the new year, have brought an average gain of 1.3% since 1950. The so-called “Santa rally” also correlates closely with positive returns in January and the upcoming year. So far this month, the U.S. stock market has lost some of its gains since President-elect Donald Trump’s win on Election Day, which raised hopes for faster economic growth and more lax regulations that would boost corporate profits. Worries have risen that Trump’s preference for tariffs and other policies could lead to higher inflation , a bigger U.S. government debt and difficulties for global trade. Even so, the stock market remains on pace to deliver strong returns for 2024. The benchmark S&P 500 is up about 26% so far this year and remains within roughly 1.3% of the all-time high it set earlier this month — its latest of 57 record highs this year.NEW YORK — Bitcoin extended its streak of record highs after ticking above $99,000 for the first time last week. The cryptocurrency has rocketed more than 40% in just two weeks. Now, bitcoin is at the doorstep of $100,000, just two years after dropping below $17,000 after the collapse of crypto exchange FTX. The dramatic rally arrives as industry players expect the incoming Trump administration to bring a more crypto-friendly approach to regulating the digital currency. Bitcoin hovered around $99,000 on Friday, according to CoinDesk. As with everything in the volatile crypto markets, the future is impossible to know. And while some are bullish, other experts continue to warn of investment risks. Here’s what you need to know. Cryptocurrency has been around for a while now. But chances are, you’ve heard about it more and more over the last few years. In basic terms, cryptocurrency is digital money. This kind of currency is designed to work through an online network without a central authority — meaning it’s typically not backed by any government or banking institution — and transactions get recorded with technology called a blockchain. Bitcoin is the largest and oldest cryptocurrency, although other assets such as ethereum, tether and dogecoin have also gained popularity over the years. Some investors see cryptocurrency as a “digital alternative” to traditional money — but it can be very volatile, with its price reliant on larger market conditions. A lot of the recent action has to do with the outcome of the U.S. presidential election. Crypto industry players have welcomed Trump’s victory, hoping that he would be able to push through legislative and regulatory changes that they’ve long lobbied for — which, generally speaking, aim for an increased sense of legitimacy without too much red tape. Trump, who was once a crypto skeptic, recently pledged to make the U.S. “the crypto capital of the planet” and create a “strategic reserve” of bitcoin. His campaign accepted donations in cryptocurrency and he courted fans at a bitcoin conference in July. He also launched World Liberty Financial, a new venture with family members to trade cryptocurrencies. How this will actually pan out — and whether Trump will successfully act quickly on these promises — has yet to be seen. “This is not necessarily a short-term story, it’s likely a much longer-term story,” Citi macro strategist David Glass told the Associated Press last week. “And there is the question of how quickly can U.S. crypto policy make a serious impact” on wider adoption. Adam Morgan McCarthy, a research analyst at Kaiko, thinks the industry is craving “just some sort of clarity.” Much of the approach to regulating crypto in the past has been “enforcement based,” he notes, which has been helpful in weeding out some bad actors — but legislation might fill in other key gaps. Gary Gensler, who as head of the Securities and Exchange Commission under President Biden has led a U.S. government crackdown on the crypto industry, penalized a number of crypto companies for violating securities laws. Gensler announced Thursday that he would step down as SEC chair on Jan. 20, Inauguration Day. Despite crypto’s recent excitement around Trump, McCarthy said that 2024 has already been a “hugely consequential year for regulation in the U.S.” — pointing to January’s approval of spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds, for example, which mark a new way to invest in the asset. Spot ETFs have been the dominant driver of bitcoin for some time now — but, like much of the cryptocurrency’s recent momentum, they saw record inflows postelection. According to Kaiko , bitcoin ETFs recorded $6 billion in trade volume for the week of the election alone. In April, bitcoin also saw its fourth “halving” — a preprogrammed event that affects production by cutting the reward for mining, or the creation of new bitcoin, in half. In theory, if demand remains strong, some analysts say, this “supply shock” can help propel the price long term. Others note it may be too early to tell. History shows you can lose money in crypto as quickly as you’ve made it. Long-term price behavior relies on larger market conditions. Trading continues at all hours, every day. At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, bitcoin stood at just over $5,000. Its price climbed to nearly $69,000 by November 2021, during high demand for technology assets, but later crashed during an aggressive series of Federal Reserve rate hikes. And in late 2022 the collapse of FTX significantly undermined confidence in crypto overall, with bitcoin falling below $17,000. Investors began returning in large numbers as inflation started to cool — and gains skyrocketed on the anticipation and then early success of spot ETFs. But experts still stress caution, especially for small-pocketed investors. And lighter regulation from the coming Trump administration could mean less guardrails. Although it’s been a big month for crypto — and particularly bitcoin — there’s always risk for “correction,” or seeing prices fluctuate down. Some assets may also have more restrictions than others. “I would say, keep it simple. And don’t take on more risk than you can afford to,” McCarthy said. Assets like bitcoin are produced through a process called “mining,” which consumes a lot of energy. Operations relying on pollutive sources have drawn particular concern over the years. Recent research published by the United Nations University and Earth’s Future journal found that the carbon footprint of 2020-21 bitcoin mining across 76 nations was equivalent to the emissions from burning 84 billion pounds of coal or running 190 natural gas-fired power plants. Coal satisfied the bulk of bitcoin’s electricity demands (45%), followed by natural gas (21%) and hydropower (16%). Environmental impacts of bitcoin mining boil down largely to the energy source used. Industry analysts have maintained that clean energy use has increased in recent years, coinciding with rising calls for climate protections. Grantham-Philips writes for the Associated Press.

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NoneBy Echo Wang NEW YORK, - Artificial intelligence cloud platform CoreWeave, is aiming for a valuation of more than $35 billion in its U.S. initial public offering that is expected to occur next year, people familiar with the matter told Reuters on Friday. Roseland, New Jersey-based CoreWeave is likely to target raising more than $3 billion from its share sale, which could launch during the second quarter of 2025, the sources said, cautioning that the company's plans are subject to market conditions and could change. The discussions come at a time when investor interest in generative AI is sky-rocketing. The AI boom, which has powered chipmakers such as Nvidia, and other big tech firms, has turbocharged global demand for infrastructure such as data centers and high-powered servers. Reuters reported in September that data center operator Switch is exploring an IPO that could value the company at about $40 billion, including debt. Funding for private AI and cloud startups in the U.S., Europe and Israel is rising after three years of decline, and is estimated to touch $79.2 billion by the end of this year, venture capital firm Accel said in October. CoreWeave offers access to data centers and high-powered chips for AI workloads, primarily supplied by Nvidia, one of the company's main backers. It competes against larger cloud computing service providers such as tech giant Microsoft's Azure and Amazon's AWS. CoreWeave declined to comment. A broader wave of high-profile names is gearing up for potential listings next year, as the IPO market shows early signs of thawing after several bouts of market volatility shut down capital markets for much of the last two years. CoreWeave recently completed a $650 million secondary share sale, which valued it at $23 billion. Investors led by Jane Street, Magnetar, Fidelity Management, and Macquarie Capital participated in the secondary stock deal. Bloomberg reported in November that CoreWeave had tapped investment banks for its IPO preparations. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.

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