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By Kareem Chehayeb | Associated Press BEIRUT — Abu Mohammed al-Golani, the militant leader whose stunning insurgency toppled Syria’s President Bashar Assad, has spent years working to remake his public image , renouncing longtime ties to al-Qaida and depicting himself as a champion of pluralism and tolerance. As he entered Damascus behind his victorious fighters Sunday, he even dropped his nom de guerre and referred to himself with his real name, Ahmad al-Sharaa. The extent of that transformation from jihadi extremist to would-be state builder is now put to the test. Insurgents control Damascus, Assad has fled into hiding, and for the first time after 50 years of his family’s iron hand, it is an open question how Syria will be governed. Syria is home to multiple ethnic and religious communities, often pitted against each other by Assad’s state and years of war. Many of them fear the possibility that Sunni Islamist extremists will take over. The country is also fragmented among disparate armed factions, and foreign powers from Russia and Iran to the United States, Turkey and Israel all have their hands in the mix. Hours after Damascus’ capture, the 42-year-old al-Sharaa made his first appearance in the city’s landmark Umayyad Mosque, declaring Assad’s fall “a victory for the Islamic nation.” A senior rebel commander, Anas Salkhadi, appeared on state TV to declare, “Our message to all the sects of Syria, is that we tell them that Syria is for everyone,” Al-Sharaa, who has been labeled a terrorist by the United States, and his insurgent force, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS – many of whose fighters are jihadis — now stand to be a major player. For years, al-Sharaa worked to consolidate power, while bottled up in the province of Idlib in Syria’s northwest corner as Assad’s Iranian- and Russian-backed rule over much of the country appeared solid. He maneuvered among extremist organizations while eliminating competitors and former allies. He sought to polish the image of his de-facto “salvation government” that has been running Idlib to win over international governments and reassure Syria’s religious and ethnic minorities. And he built ties with various tribes and other groups. Along the way, he shed his garb as a hard-line Islamist guerrilla and put on suits for press interviews, talking of building state institutions and decentralizing power to reflect Syria’s diversity. “Syria deserves a governing system that is institutional, no one where a single ruler makes arbitrary decisions,” he said in an interview with CNN last week, offering the possibility HTS would eventually be dissolved after Assad falls. “Don’t judge by words, but by actions,” he said. Throughout his rise through extremist ranks, al-Sharaa was only known by the jihadi nickname he adopted, Abu Mohammed al-Golani. His ties to al-Qaida stretch back to 2003, when he joined insurgents battling U.S. troops in Iraq. The Syrian native was detained by the U.S. military but remained in Iraq. During that time, al-Qaida usurped like-minded groups and formed the extremist Islamic State of Iraq, led by Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. In 2011, a popular uprising in Syria against Assad triggered a brutal government crackdown and led to all-out war. Al-Golani’s prominence grew when al-Baghdadi sent him to Syria to establish a branch of al-Qaida called the Nusra Front. The United States labeled the new group as a terrorist organization. That designation still remains in place and the U.S. government has put a $10 million bounty on him. As Syria’s civil war intensified in 2013, so did al-Golani’s ambitions. He defied al-Baghdadi’s calls to dissolve the Nusra Front and merge it with al-Qaida’s operation in Iraq, to form the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, or ISIS. Al-Golani nonetheless pledged his allegiance to al-Qaida, which later disassociated itself from ISIS. The Nusra Front battled ISIS and eliminated much of its competition among the Syrian armed opposition to Assad. In his first interview in 2014, al-Golani kept his face covered, telling a reporter for Qatari network Al-Jazeera that he rejected political talks in Geneva to end the conflict. He said his goal was to see Syria ruled under Islamic law and made clear that there was no room for the country’s Alawite, Shiite, Druze and Christian minorities. In 2016, al-Golani revealed his face to the public for the first time in a video message that announced his group was renaming itself Jabhat Fateh al-Sham -– the Syria Conquest Front — and cutting its ties to al-Qaida. “This new organization has no affiliation to any external entity,” he said in the video, filmed wearing military garb and a turban. The move paved the way for al-Golani to assert full control over fracturing militant groups. A year later, his alliance rebranded again as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham -– meaning Organization for Liberating Syria — as the groups merged, consolidating al-Golani’s power in northwest Syria’s Idlib province. HTS later clashed with independent Islamist militants who opposed the merger, further emboldening al-Golani and his group as the leading power in northwestern Syria, able to rule with an iron fist. With his power consolidated, al-Golani set in motion a transformation that few could have imagined. Replacing his military garb with shirt and trousers, he began calling for religious tolerance and pluralism. He appealed to the Druze community in Idlib, which the Nusra Front had previously targeted , and visited the families of Kurds who were killed by Turkish-backed militias. In 2021, he had his first interview with an American journalist on PBS. Wearing a blazer, with his short hair gelled back, the now more soft-spoken HTS leader said that his group posed no threat to the West and that sanctions imposed against it were unjust. “Yes, we have criticized Western policies,” he said. “But to wage a war against the United States or Europe from Syria, that’s not true. We didn’t say we wanted to fight.”
MILAN — Shoppers laden with bags from Fendi, Loewe, Prada and other designer labels clog the narrow sidewalks of Milan's swankiest shopping street, bringing joy to the purveyors of high-end luxury goods this, and every, holiday season. There's even more to celebrate this year: a commercial real estate company crowned Via MonteNapoleone as the world's most expensive retail destination, displacing New York's Fifth Avenue. The latest version of American firm Cushman & Wakefield's annual global index, which ranks shopping areas based on the rent prices they command, is a sign of Via MonteNapoleone's desirability as an address for luxury ready-to-wear, jewelry and even pastry brands. A man walks past a shop Dec. 12 in Monte Napoleone street in Milan, Italy. The average rent on the Milan street surged to $2,047 per square foot, compared with $2,000 per square foot on an 11-block stretch of upper Fifth Avenue. Via MonteNapoleone's small size — less than a quarter-mile long — and walking distance to services and top cultural sites are among the street's key advantages, according to Guglielmo Miani, president of the MonteNapoleone District association. "Not everything can fit, which is a benefit," since the limited space makes the street even more exclusive and dynamic, said Miani, whose group also represents businesses on the intersecting side streets that together with Via MonteNapoleone form an area known as Milan's Fashion Quadrilateral. Women look a shop Dec. 12 in Monte Napoleone street in Milan, Italy. The biggest brands on the street make 50 million euros to 100 million euros in annual sales, Miani said, which goes a long way to paying the rent. Tiffany & Co. is preparing to take up residence on Via Montenapoleone, and longtime tenant Fendi is expanding. The MonteNapoleone District says 11 million people visited the area this year through November, but there's no way to say how many were big spenders vs. window shoppers. The average shopper on Via MonteNapoleone spent 2,500 euros per purchase between August and November — the highest average receipt in the world, according to the tax-free shopping firm Global Blue. The street is a magnet for holiday shoppers who arrive in Maseratis, Porsches and even Ferraris, the sports car's limited trunk space notwithstanding. A mannequin is seen Dec. 12 in a shop in Monte Napoleone street in Milan, Italy. Lights twinkle overhead, boutique windows feature mannequins engaged in warm scenes of holiday fun, and passersby snap photos of expertly decorated cakes in pastry shop displays. A visitor from China, Chen Xinghan, waited for a taxi with a half-dozen shopping bags lined up next to him on the sidewalk. He said he paid half the price for a luxury Fendi coat that he purchased in Milan than he would have at home. "I got a lot," Chen acknowledged. "It's a fantastic place, a good place for shopping." A man waits for a taxi Dec. 12 in Monte Napoleon street in Milan, Italy. A few store windows down, Franca Da Rold, who was visiting Milan from Belluno, an Italian city in the Dolomites mountain range, marveled at a chunky, yardslong knit scarf priced at 980 euros. "I could knit that in one hour, using 12-gauge knitting needles as thick as my fingers, and thick wool. Maximum two hours," Da Rold said, but acknowledged the brand appeal. Buildings are decorated Dec. 12 in Monte Napoleone street in Milan, Italy. Despite upper Fifth Avenue getting bumped to the No. 2 spot on the Cushman & Wakefield list, the organization that serves as the Manhattan street's guardian and chief promoter had praise for MonteNapoleone's achievement. "Milan's investment in its public realm is paying off, which is a win for their shoppers, businesses and city as a whole," said Madelyn Wils, interim president of the Fifth Avenue Association. She also expressed confidence that with new investments and a record year for sales on Fifth Avenue, "we'll be back on top in no time." The holiday season feels a little less jolly considering the amount of waste generated by gift-giving. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates the amount of household garbage in the U.S. increases by 25% between Thanksgiving and New Year's. After the decorations come down, all that waste heads to landfills, producing a significant contributor to climate change: methane gas. "Greening" the holidays is essential, and one simple tip is to think more about how sustainable the materials are in your decorations, decor, and, of course, gifts. Instead of plastics, you could opt for items that can be reused, are made of renewable materials or natural fibers that boast a smaller environmental impact in both production and durability. Due to consumers' desires for more eco-friendly goods, sustainable materials are among the biggest trends in home decor. Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable—and earth-conscious—home goods that make perfect holiday gifts. Made Trade rounded up a list of sustainable home decor trends in 2025 that offer dozens of creative options for holiday gift-giving. Each trend includes examples of great gifts for the home and advice for ensuring items are sustainably produced or can help create a more eco-friendly space. In the depths of winter's gray days, it's a real gift to see a little green, which is why indoor gardening gifts are a wonderful idea. Not only are they eco-friendly and promote sustainability—the more food you can grow yourself, the less you have to buy—they also foster an appreciation of nature and bring the natural world indoors to enjoy. Sprouting kits and microgreens require minimal amounts of space and sunlight, but a sunny, south-facing window will permit a small herb garden or leafy greens for salads. If you're not sure what kind of light your recipient has access to, go with gifting indoor grow lamps along with the plants, or pick a hardy, low-water houseplant—some can act as natural air purifiers too. When buying gifts for the home, consider what materials the items are made from and how far away they come from—not only are natural materials like rattan, jute, palm leaves, clay, organic cotton and linen, and ceramics more sustainable, but if they are being used by a local craftsperson, gifters are also saving on fossil fuels for the transportation. Plus, you're helping the local economy by supporting local craftspeople, so it's a win-win. Natural fiber pillows, sheets, blankets, and even doormats offer comfort and consideration of the environment. The most sustainable and eco-friendly gift is one you already have, so get creative about reusing materials already in or around your home (raid the recycling bin, find nice pieces of wood outside, wash out and reuse glass jars) to fashion them into new, thoughtful goods. Similarly, think vintage and secondhand—what items can you give a second life to by passing them along to someone who will find new meaning in them? Some of the most thoughtful gifts are small heirlooms—pieces of jewelry or a beloved ceramic dish—passed along to the next generation that will appreciate them. Green technology offers ways to reduce our carbon footprint in everyday life, and smart thermostats, solar lights, smart sprinklers, and smart plugs all make great gifts, saving people money and conserving our valuable resources. For those looking into home renovations or updating decor, try a new light fixture paired with smart blubs, or a new window treatment with smart shades. Even something as simple as a rain barrel can reduce energy use—and while the technology for that isn't very sophisticated, it certainly is, like composting, "smart." Integrated outdoor living is the ultimate gift, allowing us to bring the natural world into our homes. However, doing so sustainably takes a little more effort than simply leaving the doors to the deck open all the time. First, find eco-friendly and sustainable outdoor furniture, perhaps thrifting it or buying it used and fixing it up for a one-of-a-kind gift. If you can't go secondhand, choose furniture made of sustainable materials such as reclaimed wood, recycled plastic (great for outdoor rugs), or bamboo. For smaller gifts, consider solar lights, a water feature that recycles water, a rain barrel, or even a set of handmade wind chimes made from seashells. Story editing by Carren Jao. Additional editing by Kelly Glass. Copy editing by Paris Close. Photo selection by Clarese Moller. This story originally appeared on Made Trade and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio. Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly.Shoppers were left scratching their heads in bemusement as Easter eggs appearedd onto supermarket shelves even before the close of the year. Gripped by festive bewilderment, social media was abuzz with people sharing their sightings of early-bird Easter treats in stores such as Morrisons, Tesco, and Asda, well ahead of Easter Sunday's April 20 calendar slot. One bewildered customer, @Jingle1991, posted a picture on Christmas Eve showing Malteser Bunnies lined up in Sainsbury’s, wryly noting: "Jesus hasn’t even been born yet." In Margate, local Gary Evans took to Twitter to showcase Creme Eggs on display in Morrison’s on Boxing Day, describing the premature push as crazy and lamenting the commercial rush, saying, "I just think its crazy that everything is so superficial and meaninglessly commercial... (there’s) something quite frantic about it," in conversation with the PA news agency. Stoke-on-Trent's Joseph Robinson encountered Easter sweets spanning Cadbury Mini Eggs to themed Kit-Kat and Kinder surprises at his local Morrisons on Friday, saying: "It’s funny, as they’ve not even managed to shift the Christmas chocolates off the shelves yet and they’re already stocking for Easter." Mike Chalmers, a devout Christian from Chippenham, Wiltshire, expressed a measured view upon seeing a display titled: "Celebrate this Easter with Cadbury." He remarked, "Christmas and Easter are the two centrepoints of the Christian good news story so it’s no bad thing to see the connections," and added, "It’s about more than shapes of chocolate though! " Meanwhile, marketing consultant Andrew Wallis, who was taken aback by the sight of Easter eggs in the Co-op at Kilgetty, Pembrokeshire, considered it indicative of "forward-thinking" by major corporations. Sharing his thoughts with PA, the 54 year old from the Isle of Man, who advises the fitness industry on marketing, said, "It made me reflect on how big brands are always thinking ahead and planning early," He advised retailers, "My message to retailers would be: while planning ahead is important, it’s also essential to be mindful of consumer sentiment. "
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Morgan State hopes for end to recent skid with visit to MinnesotaIloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas —Jerry Treñas/Facebook ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Mayor Jerry Treñas has announced his readiness to retreat into a quieter life after 39 years in politics after the city’s voters choose their new leaders in next year’s midterm elections. The mayor, in a statement released on Dec. 6, said he was looking forward to a “stress-free life” after years in public service since he was appointed as city councilor at the age of 29 in 1986. Treñas, 67, said he would be focusing on spending more time with his grandchildren and returning to his practice of law. READ: Iloilo City approves P4.1-B local budget for 2025 “I will be enjoying my six lovely granddaughters as they grow up, and I will also engage in limited law practice. I have already requested the lawyers at the law office to clean my room so I will have a place to go in case I need to keep myself busy,” he said. Treñas, who has five children with wife Rosalie, had been on medical leave since late September this year after he underwent a bile duct procedure in Manila. On Dec. 2, he said the bag attached to his bile duct was removed. “I feel much stronger now. Moving around is easier without the tube and bag and I’m incredibly grateful for this progress,” Treñas said. “This is my second life, granted by the grace of our Lord, and I intend to enjoy it while I still can. God is so good,” he added. The mayor was expected to return to work on Dec. 9. Treñas originally intended to run for another term, a third for this tenure and his sixth overall as mayor. However, he changed his mind on Oct. 3 and decided to instead back his daughter, mayoralty candidate Raisa Treñas-Chu, who is serving as his executive assistant. Treñas-Chu is running against independent candidate Roland Magahin, a former president of the city’s Terminal Market Vendors Associations. “I will be like a tutor to my daughter Raisa. I will always be there,” said Treñas of his daughter, should she win the elections. “I [also] intend to share my limited time and expertise with local chief executives who seek my advice and assistance in any way I can,” he added. Treñas served as city councilor from 1986 to April 1992. He became mayor in 2001, serving three terms until 2010. He also served as congressman of the city’s lone district from 2010 to 2019. 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 . Treñas ran again and won as mayor of Iloilo City in 2019, defeating his brother-in-law, then mayor Jose Espinosa III. Treñas was reelected in 2022.Losses for big technology stocks pulled major indexes lower on Wall Street. The S&P 500 fell 0.4% Wednesday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.3% from its record high a day earlier, and the Nasdaq composite lost 0.6%. Losses for Nvidia, Microsoft and Broadcom were the biggest weights on the market. Dell sank 12.2% after reporting revenue that fell shy of forecasts, and HP dropped 11.4% after giving a weaker-than-expected outlook. Treasury yields fell in the bond market. U.S. financial markets will be closed Thursday for Thanksgiving, and will reopen for a half day on Friday. On Wednesday: The S&P 500 fell 22.89 points, or 0.4%, to 5,998.74. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 138.25 points, or 0.3%, to 44,722.06. The Nasdaq composite fell 115.10 points, or 0.6%, to 19,060.48. The Russell 2000 index of smaller companies rose 1.88 points, or 0.1%, to 2,426.19. For the week: The S&P 500 is up 29.40 points, or 0.5%. The Dow is up 425.55 points, or 1%. The Nasdaq is up 56.83 points, or 0.3%. The Russell 2000 is up 19.52 points, or 0.8%. For the year: The S&P 500 is up 1,228.91 points, or 25.8%. The Dow is up 7,032.52 points, or 18.7%. The Nasdaq is up 4,449.12 points, or 27%. The Russell 2000 is up 399.12 points, or 19.7%.
Huge Australian crocodile made famous by cameo role in Crocodile Dundee diesAgEagle Aerial Systems Announces Appointment of L.B. Day to Board of Directors
French far-right leader Marine Le Pen said on Wednesday pressure was now piling up on president Emmanuel Macron even though she was not calling for his resignation, adding Mr Macron alone had the last say on the matter. Ms Le Pen was speaking after French opposition lawmakers earlier brought the government down in a no confidence vote , throwing the European Union's second-biggest economic power deeper into a political crisis that threatens its capacity to legislate and rein in a massive budget deficit. Advertisement Mr Macron will address the nation Thursday evening in a televised speech, the Elysee presidential palace said on Wednesday, after French opposition lawmakers earlier brought the government down. Macron is due to speak at 1900 GMT. The National Assembly approved the motion by 331 votes. A minimum of 288 were needed. Mr Macron insisted he will serve the rest of his term until 2027. However, he will need to appoint a new prime minister for the second time after July’s legislative elections led to a deeply divided parliament. Michel Barnier, a conservative appointed in September, will become the shortest-serving prime minister in France’s modern Republic. “As this mission may soon come to an end, I can tell you that it will remain an honour for me to have served France and the French with dignity,” Mr Barnier said in his final speech before the vote. “This no-confidence motion ... will make everything more serious and more difficult. That’s what I’m sure of,” he said. Wednesday’s crucial vote rose from fierce opposition to Mr Barnier’s proposed budget.
NEW YORK — The man accused of shooting and killing the CEO of UnitedHealthcare pleaded not guilty Monday to state murder and terror charges while his attorney complained that comments coming from New York’s mayor would make it tough to receive a fair trial. Luigi Mangione, 26, was shackled and seated in a Manhattan court when he leaned over to a microphone to enter his plea. The Manhattan district attorney charged him last week with multiple counts of murder, including murder as an act of terrorism. Mangione’s initial appearance in New York’s state trial court was preempted by federal prosecutors bringing their own charges over the shooting. The federal charges could carry the possibility of the death penalty, while the maximum sentence for the state charges is life in prison without parole. Prosecutors say the two cases will proceed on parallel tracks, with the state charges expected to go to trial first. One of Mangione’s attorneys told a judge that government officials, including New York Mayor Eric Adams, turned Mangione into a political pawn, robbing him of his rights as a defendant and tainting the jury pool. “I am very concerned about my client’s right to a fair trial,” Karen Friedman Agnifilo said. Adams and Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch stood among a throng of heavily armed officers Thursday when Mangione was flown to a Manhattan heliport and escorted up a pier after being extradited from Pennsylvania. Friedman Agnifilo said police turned Mangione’s return to New York into a choreographed spectacle. Adams is himself scheduled to stand trial on federal corruption charges next year. He pleaded not guilty and vowed to remain in office as he fights the charges. Authorities say Mangione gunned down Brian Thompson as he was walking to an investor conference in midtown Manhattan on the morning of Dec 4. Mangione was arrested in a Pennsylvania McDonald’s after a five-day search, carrying a gun that matched the one used in the shooting and a fake ID, police said. Mangione is being held in a Brooklyn federal jail alongside several other high-profile defendants, including Sean “Diddy” Combs and Sam Bankman-Fried. Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Burt died over the weekend, the Crocosaurus Cove reptile aquarium in Darwin, Australia, said. He was at least 90 years old. “Known for his independent nature, Burt was a confirmed bachelor – an attitude he made clear during his earlier years at a crocodile farm,” Crocosaurus Cove wrote in social media posts. The aquarium added: “He wasn’t just a crocodile, he was a force of nature and a reminder of the power and majesty of these incredible creatures. While his personality could be challenging, it was also what made him so memorable and beloved by those who worked with him and the thousands who visited him over the years.” A saltwater crocodile, Burt was estimated to be more than 16 feet long. He was captured in the 1980s in the Reynolds River and became one of the most well-known crocodiles in the world, according to Crocosaurus Cove. The 1986 film stars Paul Hogan as the rugged crocodile hunter Mick Dundee. In the movie, American Sue Charlton, played by actress Linda Kozlowski, goes to fill her canteen in a watering hole when she is attacked by a crocodile before being saved by Dundee. Burt is briefly shown lunging out of the water. But the creature shown in more detail as Dundee saves the day is apparently something else. The Internet Movie Database says the film made a mistake by depicting an American alligator, which has a blunter snout. The Australian aquarium where Burt had lived since 2008 features a Cage of Death which it says is the nation’s only crocodile dive. It said it planned to honour Burt’s legacy with a commemorative sign “celebrating his extraordinary life and the stories and interactions he shared throughout his time at the park”.
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F.P. Report ISLAMABAD: A high-level Belarusian delegation arrived in Pakistan on Sunday as the two countries prepare to deepen bilateral economic collaboration, with the president of the Eastern European state, Aleksandr Lukashenko, scheduled to reach Islamabad tomorrow. The 68-member delegation, which includes key Belarusian ministers, was received at Islamabad airport by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and officials from Pakistan’s foreign ministry. Pakistan and Belarus established diplomatic ties in 1994 and have since worked to strengthen their relationship, with recent efforts focusing on industrial and technological collaboration, trade and investment. Belarus exports machinery, fertilizers and synthetic yarn to Pakistan, while Pakistan provides textiles, leather goods and surgical instruments to Belarus. “On behalf of the government and people of Pakistan, we warmly welcome the Belarusian delegation,” Naqvi said in a statement circulated by the interior ministry, as he interacted with the foreign dignitaries. “This visit is of great importance for strengthening bilateral relations and fostering collaboration in various sectors, including industry and trade,” he added. According to Pakistan’s foreign office, the delegation includes 43 business leaders and 25 ministerial officials. It is led by Foreign Minister Maxim Ryzhenkov, who is accompanied by colleagues holding portfolios in energy, industry, justice, communications, natural resources and emergency situations. The chairman of Belarus’s Military Industry Committee is also part of the group. The visit of the delegation marks another step in enhancing bilateral ties, with both countries aiming to explore new avenues of cooperation. The foreign office said in a statement on Thursday “President Lukashenko will hold extensive talks with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and discuss areas of bilateral cooperation and engagement.” “Several agreements and MoUs [memorandums of understanding] will also be signed during the visit,” it added. Naqvi also emphasized the significance of the visit, hoping it would further solidify the relationship between our two countries. Courtesy: arabnewsNoneWinnipeg woman warns of complex Manitoba Hydro scam
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NoneFate of Matt Gaetz's bombshell ethics report revealed The committee met for the first time Thursday since Gaetz resigned CLICK HERE: Sign up for DailyMail.com's daily U.S. politics newsletter By JON MICHAEL RAASCH, POLITICAL REPORTER ON CAPITOL HILL, FOR DAILYMAIL.COM Published: 23:07 GMT, 5 December 2024 | Updated: 23:19 GMT, 5 December 2024 e-mail 38 View comments Republicans defeated an effort by Democrats to force the release of a bombshell ethics report into MAGA firebrand Matt Gaetz. The House Ethics Committee has been investigating allegations that Trump's former attorney general pick Gaetz had sex with a minor and did illegal drugs while a federal employee. Multiple reports indicating Gaetz paid two girls over $10,000 for sex, and that he inquired about them bringing 'party favors' - slang for drugs - led to the demise of his AG nomination as GOP senators expressed many reservations about his past. Gaetz has repeatedly denied all of the allegations and likened the Ethics Committee's investigation as a smear campaign against him. After a high-stakes Ethics Committee meeting earlier Thursday, the bipartisan panel said they would not put out the report. 'The Committee met today to discuss the matter of Representative Matt Gaetz. The Committee is continuing to discuss the matter. There will be no further statements other than in accordance with the Committee and House Rules .' But Democratic Reps. Sean Casten of Illinois and Steve Cohen of Tennessee had both offered resolutions to force a vote on releasing the committee's report. Those resolutions were voted down on the House floor by Republicans on Thursday evening, delivering a blow to the Democrats' plan. Former Rep. Matt Gaetz (L) the President-elect Donald Trump's nominee to be Attorney General walks alongside Vice President-elect JD Vance (R) as they arrive for meetings with Senators at the U.S. Capitol on November 20, 2024 in Washington, D.C. The following day Gaetz withdrew his nomination for AG The House Ethics Committee convened on Thursday to discuss ex-Rep. Matt Gaetz pending report regarding sexual misconduct and drug use allegations The House Ethics Committee decided against releasing the Gaetz report on Thursday Many Democrats have called for its release, while Republicans say publishing the report on the former lawmaker is no longer important given he withdrew his nomination to become attorney general on November 21, just over a week after he was nominated and resigned his congressional seat. Two weeks ago, the panel deadlocked on whether they should release the file, opted against taking any action and planned a follow up session for today. Thursday's afternoon meeting again revolved around discussing whether they should publish the potentially damaging file, though they ultimately chose against it for now. Gaetz's longtime rival, former Speaker Kevin McCarthy , who Gaetz ousted from power last year, has said the former Florida Republican was looking for an excuse to get out of Congress and away from the potentially disastrous report. 'Matt wanted an out,' McCarthy said on NewsNation on Wednesday. 'He wanted [the] excuse to resign, even though other people have been nominated, but they didn’t resign from Congress.' Because of the committee's decision, the report should not see the light of day. However, Democrats still attempted to get the report into the public eye by forcing votes on its release on the House floor. Releasing it would break with past precedent set by the panel that no longer has jurisdiction over Gaetz after he resigned from Congress one day after being tapped to be the nation's highest law enforcement official. Speaker Mike Johnson , R-La., has previously come out firmly against the report's release, saying he strongly advises against it, but the committee decided to vote on it any way. Bombshell testimony from Orlando-based attorney Joel Leppard, who represents two women who claim to have information on Gaetz's allegedly lurid past, fueled lawmaker's and the public's demand to see the file. Gaetz allegedly partied, used drugs and paid women for sex repeatedly between 2017 and 2019 while serving in the House of Representatives , Leppard claims. Former U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz (C) and wife Ginger Luckey Gaetz talk with another guest at the America First Policy Institute Gala held at Mar-a-Lago on November 14, 2024 in Palm Beach. Joel Leppard of Leppard Law is representing two women making allegations against Rep. Matt Gaetz The allegations have been central to the House Ethics Committee investigation into the ex-lawmaker as the women have reportedly testified before the panel. The Republican attended up to 10 'sex parties' where illegal drugs and 'group sex situations' were present, according to Leppard. Both women represented by Leppard allege that Gaetz paid them for sex via Venmo , the attorney claims. Gaetz paid upwards of $10,000 dollars to two women on Venmo between 2017 - 2019 , ABC News reports. 'She testified [that] in July of 2017, at this house party, she was walking out to the pool area, and she looked to her right, and she saw Rep. Gaetz having sex with her friend, who was 17,' Leppard said Monday. One of the witnesses alleges that she saw her friends having sex with Gaetz at a party in July 2017 against a game table thought to be an air hockey table. The unnamed witness also says that her friend was 17 years old at the time. Politics Capitol Hill Democrats Matt Gaetz Share or comment on this article: Fate of Matt Gaetz's bombshell ethics report revealed e-mail Add commentEuropean markets set to open lower as French political upheaval drags on
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Automotive Wiring Harness Growth: USD 50.27B in 2022, expected to hit USD 67.92B by 2031. 11-26-2024 09:04 PM CET | Tourism, Cars, Traffic Press release from: SkyQuest Technology Group Automotive Wiring Harness Market Scope: Key Insights : Automotive Wiring Harness Market size was valued at USD 50,266.88 million in 2022 and is poised to grow from USD 51975.95392 million in 2023 to USD 67915.16 million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 3.4% during the forecast period (2024-2031). Discover Your Competitive Edge with a Free Sample Report : https://www.skyquestt.com/sample-request/automotive-wiring-harness-market Access the full 2024 Market report for a comprehensive understanding @ https://www.skyquestt.com/report/automotive-wiring-harness-market In-Depth Exploration of the global Automotive Wiring Harness Market: This report offers a thorough exploration of the global Automotive Wiring Harness market, presenting a wealth of data that has been meticulously researched and analyzed. It identifies and examines the crucial market drivers, including pricing strategies, competitive landscapes, market dynamics, and regional growth trends. By outlining how these factors impact overall market performance, the report provides invaluable insights for stakeholders looking to navigate this complex terrain. Additionally, it features comprehensive profiles of leading market players, detailing essential metrics such as production capabilities, revenue streams, market value, volume, market share, and anticipated growth rates. This report serves as a vital resource for businesses seeking to make informed decisions in a rapidly evolving market. Trends and Insights Leading to Growth Opportunities The best insights for investment decisions stem from understanding major market trends, which simplify the decision-making process for potential investors. The research strives to discover multiple growth opportunities that readers can evaluate and potentially capitalize on, armed with all relevant data. Through a comprehensive assessment of important growth factors, including pricing, production, profit margins, and the value chain, market growth can be more accurately forecast for the upcoming years. Top Firms Evaluated in the Global Automotive Wiring Harness Market Research Report: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. Yazaki Corporation Aptiv Plc Leoni AG Furukawa Electric Lear Corporation Fujikura Ltd. Motherson Group Gebauer & Griller Group Prysmian Group Kromberg & Schubert Gmbh Lisa Dräxlmaier GmbH / Key Aspects of the Report: Market Summary: The report includes an overview of products/services, emphasizing the global Automotive Wiring Harness market's overall size. It provides a summary of the segmentation analysis, focusing on product/service types, applications, and regional categories, along with revenue and sales forecasts. Competitive Analysis: This segment presents information on market trends and conditions, analyzing various manufacturers. It includes data regarding average prices, as well as revenue and sales distributions for individual players in the market. Business Profiles: This chapter provides a thorough examination of the financial and strategic data for leading players in the global Automotive Wiring Harness market, covering product/service descriptions, portfolios, geographic reach, and revenue divisions. Sales Analysis by Region: This section provides data on market performance, detailing revenue, sales, and market share across regions. It also includes projections for sales growth rates and pricing strategies for each regional market, such as: North America: United States, Canada, and Mexico Europe: Germany, France, UK, Russia, and Italy Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia South America: Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, etc. Middle East and Africa: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa This in-depth research study has the capability to tackle a range of significant questions that are pivotal for understanding the market dynamics, and it specifically aims to answer the following key inquiries: How big could the global Automotive Wiring Harness market become by the end of the forecast period? Let's explore the exciting possibilities! Will the current market leader in the global Automotive Wiring Harness segment continue to hold its ground, or is change on the horizon? Which regions are poised to experience the most explosive growth in the Automotive Wiring Harness market? Discover where the future opportunities lie! Is there a particular player that stands out as the dominant force in the global Automotive Wiring Harness market? Let's find out who's leading the charge! What are the key factors driving growth and the challenges holding back the global Automotive Wiring Harness market? Join us as we uncover the forces at play! To establish the important thing traits, Ask Our Experts @ https://www.skyquestt.com/speak-with-analyst/automotive-wiring-harness-market Table of Contents Chapter 1 Industry Overview 1.1 Definition 1.2 Assumptions 1.3 Research Scope 1.4 Market Analysis by Regions 1.5 Market Size Analysis from 2023 to 2030 11.6 COVID-19 Outbreak: Medical Computer Cart Industry Impact Chapter 2 Competition by Types, Applications, and Top Regions and Countries 2.1 Market (Volume and Value) by Type 2.3 Market (Volume and Value) by Regions Chapter 3 Production Market Analysis 3.1 Worldwide Production Market Analysis 3.2 Regional Production Market Analysis Chapter 4 Medical Computer Cart Sales, Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2023-2023) Chapter 5 North America Market Analysis Chapter 6 East Asia Market Analysis Chapter 7 Europe Market Analysis Chapter 8 South Asia Market Analysis Chapter 9 Southeast Asia Market Analysis Chapter 10 Middle East Market Analysis Chapter 11 Africa Market Analysis Chapter 12 Oceania Market Analysis Chapter 13 Latin America Market Analysis Chapter 14 Company Profiles and Key Figures in Medical Computer Cart Business Chapter 15 Market Forecast (2023-2030) Chapter 16 Conclusions Address: 1 Apache Way, Westford, Massachusetts 01886 Phone: USA (+1) 351-333-4748 Email: sales@skyquestt.com About Us: SkyQuest Technology is leading growth consulting firm providing market intelligence, commercialization and technology services. It has 450+ happy clients globally. This release was published on openPR.
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Chuck Woolery built a legacy in the game show world. After becoming Wheel of Fortune ‘s first host in 1975, he went on to host multiple well-known programs, including Love Connection, Scrabble and a revival of The Dating Game . Due to his dedication on TV, Woolery acquired a net worth that lasted a lifetime. Unfortunately, Woolery died at the age of 83 on November 23, 2024. So, fans of the late TV personality are looking back at his career, personal life and more. Below , Hollywood Life is remembering Woolery and how he spearheaded his memorable TV career. How Much Did Chuck Woolery Make on ‘Wheel of Fortune’? Woolery left Wheel of Fortune in the early 1980s due to a salary dispute with the show’s network at the time, NBC. Multiple outlets reported that he was making around $5,000 per week when he hosted the game show. However, neither NBC nor Woolery publicly confirmed the amount of money he was making. What Is Chuck Woolery’s Net Worth? Woolery had a net worth that ranged between $10 million and $15 million, according to multiple outlets, including Celebrity Net Worth . What Does Net Worth Mean? A celebrity’s net worth is measured based on their personal assets minus their liabilities, per Bankrate . A person’s assets can include their home(s), vehicle(s), stocks, bonds and other personal items. The way their net worth is calculated is by adding up their assets and subtracting what they owe. What Was Chuck Woolery’s Cause of Death? Woolery’s friend Mark Young confirmed his death in an X post on November 23, 2024, which read, “It is with a broken heart that I tell you that my dear brother @chuckwoolery has just passed away. Life will not be the same without him, RIP brother.” According to TMZ , Woolery died after having trouble breathing. It’s still unclear what caused the issue, but Young told the outlet that he was with Woolery at his Texas home, and the late Love Connection host didn’t feel well.
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy will miss Sunday's game against the Packers with a sore throwing shoulder.AP News Summary at 1:24 p.m. EST
Thankful, mindful, hopeful, realistic
No. 5 UCLA women’s basketball takes down top-ranked South CarolinaKambala congratulates Kabambe, commits to work with party leadershipCommunication Test and Measurement Market Size, Share, Latest Trends, Growth Factors, Industry Analysis, Advance Technology And Forecast - 2029 12-12-2024 10:28 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: ABNewswire Anritsu (Japan), Fortive (US), EXFO (Canada), Rohde & Schwarz (Germany), Emerson (US), VIAVI Solutions (US), Yokogawa (Japan), Spirent Communications (UK), Keysight Technologies (US), Huawei (China), Hammer (US), Calnex Solutions (UK), Luna Innovations (U Communication Test & Measurement Market by Type of Test (Enterprise Test, Field Network Test, Lab & Manufacturing Test, Network Assurance Test), by Test Solution (Wireless Test Solution and Wireline Test Solution) - Global Forecast to 2029. The communication test and measurement system market [ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/communications-test-measurement-market-1309.html?utm_campaign=communicationstestmeasurementmarket&utm_source=abnewswire.com&utm_medium=paidpr ] is anticipated to expand from USD 9.6 billion in 2024 to USD 14.9 billion by 2029, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% over the forecast period. With the rapid evolution of communication technologies, the demand for advanced testing and measurement solutions continues to rise, ensuring the reliability, performance, and interoperability of these systems. This growth is driven by innovations in areas such as 5G, the Internet of Things (IoT), and next-generation optical networks. Download PDF Brochure@ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=1309 [ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=1309&utm_campaign=communicationstestmeasurementmarket&utm_source=abnewswire.com&utm_medium=paidpr ] Based on offering, the hardware segment holds the largest market size during the forecast period In the dynamic landscape of communication technology, the utilization of specialized hardware such as network analyzers, oscilloscopes, Radio Frequency (RF) test equipment, and Bit Error Rate Testers (BERT) is indispensable for ensuring the robustness and efficiency of communication systems. Network Analyzers play a pivotal role in characterizing the electrical performance of high-frequency components, enabling the analysis of impedance, reflection properties, and the identification of signal integrity issues. Oscilloscopes, with their ability to capture and display waveforms over time, serve as vital tools for observing signal amplitude, frequency, and waveform shape, facilitating the debugging and troubleshooting of communication systems. RF test equipment is instrumental in validating the performance of RF components, antennas, and transceivers, crucial for optimizing wireless communication systems. Bit Error Rate Testers play a key role in evaluating the quality of data transmission, aiding in the assessment of communication protocols and the identification of issues related to signal degradation or distortion. Based on offering, the software segment is expected to grow with the highest CAGR during the forecast period In the dynamic landscape of the communication test and measurement market, an array of specialized software plays a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless functionality and robust performance of communication networks. Test and measurement software serves as the cornerstone, conducting comprehensive assessments of network equipment, signal quality, and protocol adherence. Simulation software allows for the emulation of diverse communication scenarios, offering a controlled environment to assess system performance and identify potential issues prior to deployment. Network management and monitoring software ensures real-time oversight, promptly identifying and addressing anomalies, optimizing resource allocation, and bolstering security measures. North America to hold the largest market size during the forecast period The communication test and measurement market in North America has been experiencing significant growth and development. The market in this region is expected to be driven by the demand from the IT & telecommunications and aerospace & defense sectors. The rise in the number of smartphone users and internet subscribers, as well as the demand for high-speed data access, has been driving network operators to expand and upgrade their network infrastructure. Telecom operators are adopting technologies to handle the rapid increase in data traffic. Test and measurement equipment is critical for telecommunication service providers, mobile device manufacturers, and network equipment manufacturers to offer their customers high-quality and high-performing services and products. Request Sample Pages@ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=1309 [ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=1309&utm_campaign=communicationstestmeasurementmarket&utm_source=abnewswire.com&utm_medium=paidpr ] Unique Features in the Communication Test and Measurement Market The communication test and measurement market is characterized by its rapid adaptation to emerging technologies such as 5G, IoT, and next-generation optical networks. These advancements require specialized testing solutions to ensure seamless deployment, performance optimization, and interoperability, making the market highly dynamic and innovation-driven. Modern test and measurement systems offer real-time analytics and insights, enabling operators to detect and address issues promptly. This feature is essential for high-speed networks and mission-critical applications where delays or downtime can have significant consequences. As network infrastructure increasingly shifts to the cloud, the market has embraced cloud-based and remote testing solutions. These tools allow service providers to perform testing and diagnostics from virtually anywhere, reducing costs and improving efficiency. The growing complexity of communication networks has led to the need for multi-domain testing solutions. These systems can simultaneously evaluate the performance of wireless, wired, and optical networks, offering comprehensive insights into overall network health. AI and machine learning are transforming the communication test and measurement landscape by enabling predictive analysis and automated fault detection. These technologies enhance testing accuracy, reduce human intervention, and improve operational efficiency. The market heavily emphasizes compliance with global communication standards and protocols. This ensures that devices and networks adhere to regulatory requirements while maintaining compatibility across diverse systems and geographies. Major Highlights of the Communication Test and Measurement Market The widespread rollout of 5G networks is a key driver for the communication test and measurement market. With 5G enabling ultra-fast speeds, low latency, and massive device connectivity, the demand for advanced testing tools to validate performance, reliability, and interoperability has surged significantly. The proliferation of IoT devices across industries has heightened the need for precise testing solutions to ensure seamless device communication and data security. From smart homes to industrial IoT applications, the market is responding with tools designed for high scalability and efficiency. The growing adoption of high-speed optical networks and fiber-optic communication systems has spurred innovation in testing tools. These solutions are essential for ensuring optimal performance in next-generation networks supporting higher bandwidth and data-intensive applications. With the increasing reliance on cloud infrastructure, cloud-based testing and measurement solutions are gaining traction. These tools offer flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and scalability, enabling remote diagnostics and troubleshooting for modern network architectures. Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are revolutionizing the market by enabling predictive analytics, fault detection, and test optimization. These technologies reduce operational costs, enhance accuracy, and streamline the testing process. Inquire Before Buying@ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=1309 [ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Enquiry_Before_BuyingNew.asp?id=1309&utm_campaign=communicationstestmeasurementmarket&utm_source=abnewswire.com&utm_medium=paidpr ] Top Companies in the Communication Test and Measurement Market The communication test and measurement market comprises major providers, such as Anritsu (Japan), Fortive (US), EXFO (Canada), Rohde & Schwarz (Germany), Emerson (US), VIAVI Solutions (US), Yokogawa (Japan), Spirent Communications (UK), Keysight Technologies (US), Huawei (China), Hammer (US), Calnex Solutions (UK), Luna Innovations (US), NetScout (US), Cisco (US), LitePoint (US), SysMech (England), VeEX (US), TEOCO Corporation (US), NetAlly (US), thinkRF (Canada), Kyrio (US), Fastech Telecommunications (India), Eagle Photonics (India), Verkotan (Finland). To increase their market share in the communication test and measurement industry, these competitors have used a variety of growth methods, including partnerships, agreements, collaborations, new product releases, product enhancements, and acquisitions. Anritsu : Anritsu, a Japanese multinational, stands as a global leader in telecommunications test and measurement equipment. Anritsu's portfolio spans across diverse sectors, including telecommunications, wireless, optical, and electronics. Its products cater to a wide array of technologies such as 5G, LTE, IoT, and optical communications. Anritsu's solutions encompass network installation, maintenance, and optimization, covering spectrum analysis, signal analysis, and protocol examination. Additionally, it provides wireless communication testing for evolving standards like 5G and LTE, as well as optical testing solutions for fiber optic networks and data centers. Serving a broad customer base including telecommunications providers, network equipment manufacturers, and research institutions, Anritsu emphasizes innovation through significant research and development investments. With a global presence and a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Anritsu continues to shape the landscape of telecommunications testing and measurement. VIAVI Solutions : VIAVI Solutionswas formerly known as JDS Uniphase (JDSU). In 2015, JDSU planned to operate through two publicly traded companies-VIAVI Solutions and Lumentum Operations. VIAVI is a global leader in communications test and measurement and optical technologies. It is a global provider of network tests and monitoring and assurance solutions for communications service providers, enterprises, network equipment manufacturers, governments, and avionics. VIAVI is also a leader in light management solutions for 3D sensing, anti-counterfeiting, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, and defense applications. VIAVI has continued to build expertise through investments in R&D and the acquisition of key technologies from companies such as Cobham, Agilent, Arieso, Network Instruments, OCLI, RPC Photonics, 3Z Telecom, and Trilithic. Fortive (US): Fortive offers a wide range of communication test and measurement solutions, including instruments for network monitoring, signal analysis, and protocol testing. Media Contact Company Name: MarketsandMarkets Trademark Research Private Ltd. Contact Person: Mr. Rohan Salgarkar Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=communication-test-and-measurement-market-size-share-latest-trends-growth-factors-industry-analysis-advance-technology-and-forecast-2029 ] Phone: 18886006441 Address:1615 South Congress Ave. Suite 103, Delray Beach, FL 33445 City: Florida State: Florida Country: United States Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/communications-test-measurement-market-1309.html This release was published on openPR.
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A crackdown on the theft of vehicles from driveways will see new laws introduced to ban devices which can clone electronic keys. Criminals can target cars which activate automatically when a fob is nearby. The cloning devices have been blamed for a massive increase in thefts of high-tech vehicles which in turn has forced insurers to push up premiums. The thieves use electronic equipment designed for legitimate locksmiths and garages to copy keys inside homes, allowing cars to be driven away. The Home Office is working on a law “to ban electronic devices used to steal vehicles, empowering the police and courts to target those criminals using, manufacturing and supplying them”. Measures are expected to be included in the forthcoming Crime and Policing Bill, which will also include measures to crack down on shoplifting and new “respect orders” banning persistent offenders from high streets. Policing minister Diana Johnson held talks two weeks ago with the National Police Chiefs’ Council about proposals to cut car theft after the number of stolen vehicles recorded by police shot up. Incidents rose from 70,053 in 2013-14 to 128,553 in 2023-24. Crime figures show four in ten cases involve the offender using the signal from an electronic key. This typically involves technology that receives it from a key inside a property and sends it to a device held near the car. This fools the car into thinking the key is nearby, the doors unlock and the engine can be started. The practice is known as relay car theft because the key’s signal is “relayed” to a device. The growing problem is one of the reasons insurance premiums have risen to an average of £622 – 21 per cent higher than a year ago, according to the Association of British Insurers. Other factors include an increase in the cost of repairing damaged vehicles. People who keep keys near the front door and their vehicle on the drive close by can be particularly vulnerable and car owners can protect themselves by storing keys in a container called a Faraday Bag which blocks the signal. An Association of British Insurers spokesperson said: “Vehicle theft remains a serious problem. “So far this year, insurers have settled more than 40,000 claims for stolen vehicles and have paid out more than £490 million to support affected customers. “The industry invests millions each year to combat vehicle crime and help customers to protect their vehicles, and the Government’s efforts to combat thefts are welcome. “We look forward to seeing more details in the Crime and Policing Bill and will continue to work with Government and the police to clamp down on these sorts of crimes.” Minister for Crime and Policing, Dame Diana Johnson said: “Vehicle theft has a devastating effect on victims and we are aware of the real concerns people have in their day-to-day lives. "In the last year alone there were over 128,000 vehicle thefts, which is why we are focused on tackling this issue at source and have committed to bringing forward legislation to ban electronic devices used to steal vehicles, preventing them from getting into the hands of organised crime groups. "We will continue to work closely with the National Police Chiefs’ Council, which includes supporting their National Vehicle Crime Reduction Partnership, which brings together the police and manufacturers to clamp down on vehicle crime.”In the highly anticipated second season of Squid Game, South Korean actor Park Sung-hoon will take on the role of a transgender woman in a casting that has received mixed reactions online. The sequel will premiere on Netflix on Dec 26. It comes three years after the K-drama, about a high-stakes game where players put their lives on the line, became the most-watched series on the streaming platform. The first season in 2021 garnered more than 330 million views. Park, 39, is known for playing villains in series like The Glory (2022 to 2023) and Queen Of Tears (2024). In Squid Game 2, he will portray Hyun-ju, a former special forces soldier who joins the brutal game to win money for gender reassignment surgery. In a clip introducing the cast, Park said of Hyun-ju: “Even though she faces prejudice and tough situations, she shows incredible strength, decisiveness and natural leadership. Through her resilience, she breaks down stereotypes and shines as an inspiring character.” A transgender character in films or TV is rare in conservative South Korea, where there are no laws to protect against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. And while it seems the character was designed with good intentions, the casting of Park – a cisgender male – in the role of a transgender woman has divided opinions. While some praised the diversity of the characters in the series and the representation of a minority group, others on social media platforms such as X wondered why the role could not be given to a transgender actress, who might also be raising money for surgery like Hyun-ju. One netizen wrote: “A (cisgender) man pretending to be part of a minority group just doesn’t sit right with me.” But others backed the decision. Some felt that given South Korea’s fairly conservative society, where there are few openly queer public figures, a transgender actress would be exposed to intense vitriol if she were cast. One netizen said: “How do you expect (the production of Squid Game) to find a (transgender) actress who is willing to out herself to get the role, who hasn’t done any gender-affirming surgery, who can act and who is willing to withstand transphobic comments from people from (South Korea) and all over the world?” Series with LGBTQ characters have come under fire before from conservative groups in South Korea. In October, the series Love In The Big City (2024) – about a gay man and a straight woman navigating their romantic lives while living together – had to remove its trailer, which featured romantic scenes between men, from YouTube. Conservative groups criticised the show for “glorifying and promoting homosexuality”.NEW YORK (AP) — Sean “Diddy” Combs was denied bail on Wednesday as he awaits a May sex trafficking trial by a judge who cited evidence showing him to be a serious risk of witness tampering and proof that he has violated regulations in jail. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian made the decision in a written ruling following a bail hearing last week, when lawyers for the hip-hop mogul argued that a $50 million bail package they proposed would be sufficient to ensure Combs doesn’t flee and doesn’t try to intimidate prospective trial witnesses. Two other judges previously had been persuaded by prosecutors’ arguments that the Bad Boy Records founder was a danger to the community if he is not behind bars. Lawyers did not immediately respond to messages seeking comment on the decision. Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to charges that he coerced and abused women for years, aided by associates and employees. An indictment alleges that he silenced victims through blackmail and violence, including kidnapping, arson and physical beatings. A federal appeals court judge last month denied Combs’ immediate release while a three-judge panel of the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan considers his bail request. Prosecutors have insisted that no bail conditions would be sufficient to protect the public and prevent the “I'll Be Missing You” singer from fleeing. They say that even in a federal lockup in Brooklyn, Combs has orchestrated social media campaigns designed to influence prospective jurors and tried to publicly leak materials he thinks can help his case. They say he also has contacted potential witnesses through third parties. Lawyers for Combs say any alleged sexual abuse described in the indictment occurred during consensual relations between adults and that new evidence refutes allegations that Combs used his “power and prestige” to induce female victims into drugged-up, elaborately produced sexual performances with male sex workers known as “Freak Offs.” Larry Neumeister, The Associated Press
Siena men's basketball: McNamara 'disgusted' after 70-58 loss to Miami (Ohio) at Fort Myers Tip-OffMetairie, La, Nov. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mutual Savings and Loan Association (the "Association”) announced today that Magnolia Bancorp, Inc. (the "Company”), a newly formed Louisiana corporation which will be the holding company for the Association, has commenced its stock offering in connection with the conversion of the Association from the mutual to the stock form of organization. The Association also announced that the registration statement for the sale of the Company's common stock has been declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC”) and that the approvals required to commence the offering have been received, including the approvals of the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (the "OCC”) and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the "FRB”). The Company is offering for sale up to 833,750 shares of its common stock at a purchase price of $10.00 per share, although the Company may sell up to 958,813 shares of common stock because of demand for the shares or changes in market conditions, without resoliciting investors. The Company's common stock is expected to be quoted on the OTCQB Market. The shares are first being offered in a subscription offering, in priority order, to depositors of the Association with qualifying deposits at the close of business on December 31, 2022, to the Company's tax-qualified Employee Stock Ownership Plan, to depositors of the Association with qualifying deposits at the close of business on September 30, 2024, and finally to depositors of the Association at the close of business on October 31, 2024. The Company began mailing the subscription materials on November 18, 2024. Any shares of common stock remaining after the subscription offering will be offered for sale to members of the general public in a concurrent community offering, with a preference given first to residents in Jefferson, St. Tammany, Lafourche, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Charles, St. John the Baptist, Tangipahoa and Washington Parishes, Louisiana. The subscription and community offerings are scheduled to expire at 1:00 p.m., Central Time, on December 17, 2024, subject to extension. The subscription and community offerings are being managed by Keefe, Bruyette & Woods. All questions concerning the offering or requests for offering materials should be directed to the Stock Information Center at 1-877-643-8217. The Stock Information Center is open Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Central Time. The Stock Information Center will be closed on weekends and bank holidays. Completion of the stock offering is contingent upon the Company selling at least 616,250 shares of common stock and is subject to the receipt of final regulatory approvals for the conversion and stock offering, the affirmative vote of the depositors of the Association approving the conversion and other customary closing conditions. This press release is neither an offer to sell nor an offer to buy shares of common stock of the Company. The offer is made only by the Company's prospectus when accompanied by a stock order form. The Company has filed with the SEC a registration statement for the offering to which this press release relates as well as the final prospectus, dated November 8, 2024, for the subscription and community offering. Before you invest, you should read that prospectus and other documents the Company has filed with the SEC for more complete information about the Company and the stock offering. You may obtain these documents for free by visiting EDGAR on the SEC web site at www.sec.gov . The shares of common stock of the Company are not deposits or savings accounts and are not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. About Mutual Savings and Loan Association The Association was founded in 1885 and serves the banking needs of customers in its market area, which primarily consists of Jefferson and St. Tammany Parishes in Louisiana. The Association operates from its headquarters and main banking office in Metairie, Louisiana, as well as one additional full service branch office located in St. Tammany Parish on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain in Mandeville, Louisiana. Its primary business activity is attracting deposits from the general public and using those funds primarily to originate one- to four-family residential loans, residential construction loans and home equity lines of credit. At June 30, 2024, the Association had total assets of $35.5 million, total deposits of $20.0 million and equity of $14.0 million. Magnolia Bancorp, Inc. will become the holding company for the Association upon completion of the conversion and stock offering. Forward-Looking Statements This press release and the Company's prospectus for the offering contain forward-looking statements, which can be identified by the use of words such as "estimate,” "project,” "believe,” "intend,” "anticipate,” "plan,” "seek,” "expect,” "will,” "would,” "should,” "could” or "may,” and words of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements include statements of the Company's goals, intentions and expectations; statements regarding the Company's business plans, prospects, growth and operating strategies; statements regarding the quality of the Company's loan portfolio; and estimates of the Company's risks and future costs and benefits. These forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and expectations of the Company's management and are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the Company's control. In addition, these forward-looking statements are subject to assumptions with respect to future business strategies and decisions that are subject to change. Actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements as a result of numerous factors. Factors that could cause such differences to exist include, but are not limited to: the failure to obtain the final approval of the OCC for the proposed conversion and related stock offering, delays in obtaining such approval, or adverse conditions imposed in connection with such approval; failure to obtain depositor approval of the conversion; those related to the real estate and economic environment, particularly in the market areas in which the Association operates; fiscal and monetary policies of the U.S. Government; changes in government regulations affecting financial institutions, including regulatory compliance costs and capital requirements; fluctuations in the adequacy of loan loss reserves; decreases in deposit levels necessitating increased borrowing to fund loans; operational risks including, but not limited to, cybersecurity, fraud and natural disasters; the risk that the Company and the Association may not be successful in the implementation of their business strategy; changes in prevailing interest rates; credit risk management; asset-liability management; and other risks described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available at the SEC's website, www.sec.gov . The Company cautions prospective investors not to place undue reliance on any such forward looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The Company disclaims any obligation to publicly release any revision made to any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events. CONTACT: Michael L. Hurley President and Chief Executive Officer (504) 455-2444
President-elect Donald Trump announced Saturday he would pick Kash Patel, the former chief of staff to to the acting secretary of defense during the first Trump administration, to serve as director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation . "Kash is a brilliant lawyer, investigator, and “America First” fighter who has spent his career exposing corruption, defending Justice, and protecting the American People," Trump wrote in a post to Truth Social, arguing Patel would "bring back Fidelity, Bravery, and Integrity to the FBI." Patel, who will have to earn Senate confirmation to become FBI director, has earned a reputation as the ultimate Trump loyalist who has called for a purge of perceived enemies in the Justice Department and intelligence agencies. A former public defender who rose to increasingly senior national security posts in the final year of Trump’s first term, Patel has promoted the falsehood that the 2020 election was “stolen” from Trump as well as baseless claims that federal bureaucrats in the “deep state” tried to overthrow the former president. Patel has called for replacing “anti-democratic” civil servants in law enforcement and intelligence with “patriots” who he says will work for the American people, and in his memoir described the current political moment as “a battle between the people and a corrupt ruling class." “The Deep State is an unelected cabal of tyrants who think they should determine who Americans can and cannot elect as president, who think they get to decide what the president can and cannot do, and who believe they have the right to choose what the American people can and cannot know,” Patel wrote in "Government Gangsters." Former intelligence officers, Democratic lawmakers and Western officials worry that a hard-line Trump loyalist like Patel could reshape the makeup and mission of the nation’s intelligence apparatus, stripping it of its apolitical outlook and skewing assessments to adhere to a White House agenda. And they fear a worst-case scenario in which the spy agencies could be turned into tools to target political opponents. During the investigation into Russia’s interference in the 2016 election, Patel gained favor with Trump as a congressional staffer after drafting a memo that accused the FBI of making mistakes in how it obtained a warrant to conduct surveillance of a former Trump campaign volunteer. Many of the memo’s assertions were later disproved. An inspector general report found fault with the FBI’s surveillance during the Russia investigation, but also found no evidence that federal authorities had acted in a politically partisan way. Patel went on to serve in Trump’s White House National Security Council, briefly as an adviser to the acting director of national intelligence and as chief of staff to Defense Secretary Chris Miller at the end of Trump’s first term. During the closing months of Trump’s tenure, the former president proposed Patel to serve as the deputy CIA director or to take over the FBI. Then-CIA Director Gina Haspel, a career intelligence officer, threatened to resign if Patel was installed and the attorney general at the time, William Barr, vehemently objected. Trump ended up dropping his plans. “Patel had virtually no experience that would qualify him to serve at the highest level of the world’s preeminent law enforcement agency,” Barr later wrote in his memoir. Patel and some other Trump loyalists suspected there was information hidden away in the intelligence community that could shed more light on bureaucratic plotting against Trump and in favor of Joe Biden, former officials said. “It was a fairly conspiratorial environment at that point,” said Marc Short, who served as chief of staff to then-Vice President Mike Pence. Patel has echoed Trump’s rhetoric labeling journalists as traitors and calling for “cleaning out” allegedly disloyal federal bureaucrats. In an interview last year with longtime Trump ally Steve Bannon, Patel vowed to go after “conspirators” who he claimed had abused their positions in government. “The one thing we learned in the Trump administration the first go-around is that we have to put in all-American patriots top to bottom,” Patel told Bannon. “And the one thing that we will do that they never will do is that we will follow the facts and the law and go to courts of law and correct these justices and lawyers who have been prosecuting these cases based on politics and actually issuing them as lawfare,” he said. “We will go out and find the conspirators, not just in government but in the media — yes, we’re going to come after the people in the media who lied about American citizens who helped Joe Biden rig presidential elections. Whether it’s criminally or civilly, we’re going to figure that out — but yeah, we’re putting you all on notice,” Patel said. Trump and his allies first started referring to a “deep state” soon after the 2016 election, viewing the investigation into Russia’s interference in the election — and its outreach to the Trump campaign — as an attempt to sabotage his presidency. Patel joined Trump on the 2024 campaign trail and has promoted his memoir, a film adaptation of the memoir and a line of children’s books featuring him as a “wizard” defending “King Donald.” He has touted his charity, the Kash Foundation, as a way of helping the needy and providing legal defense funds to whistleblowers and others. But the foundation has released few details of its finances. According to tax filings for 2023, revenue for the foundation increased to $1.3 million last year, compared with $182,000 in 2022, with much of the money coming from donations. The foundation listed expenses of $674,000, with about $425,000 spent on advertising and marketing. He also has appeared on Truth Social peddling “Warrior Essentials” anti-vaccine diet supplements, which are supposed to “reverse” the effects of Covid-19 vaccines. In his memoir, Patel recounts how after law school he dreamed of landing a job with a law firm and a “sky-high salary” but “nobody would hire me.” Instead, he became a public defender in Miami. Referring to his stint at the Justice Department after his work as a public defender, Patel has claimed he was the “lead prosecutor” for a federal case against a Libyan accused of taking part in the lethal 2012 attack on a U.S. compound in Benghazi. “I was the main Justice lead prosecutor for Benghazi,” Patel said in an interview on a YouTube channel hosted by a former Navy SEAL, Shawn Ryan. But in Justice Department announcements at the time, Patel was not listed as the lead prosecutor or as part of the legal team. At a 2016 proceeding in Houston for a case involving a Palestinian refugee who pleaded guilty to supporting ISIS, a federal judge, Lynn Hughes, dressed down Patel and kicked him out of the chambers, according to a court transcript . The judge repeatedly questioned why Patel had flown all the way from Central Asia to be present at the proceeding, as the judge said his presence was unnecessary. And he scolded Patel for failing to dress appropriately. “Act like a lawyer,” the judge said. He accused Patel of being a Washington bureaucrat who would interfere in a case where he was not needed. “‘You’re just one more nonessential employee from Washington.” In his memoir, Patel wrote that he had rushed back from Tajikistan and did not have a suit to wear to the courtroom, and that he chose not to talk back to the judge “who had it out for me” to avoid damaging the government’s terrorism case. This article first appeared on NBCNews.com . Read more from NBC News here: Rush orders, cut costs, crossed fingers: How small businesses are preparing for Trump tariffs Trump threatens a 100% tariff on BRICS countries if they abandon U.S. dollar Trump picks Jared Kushner's father, Charles Kushner, for ambassador to France
Baltimore (8-5) at New York Giants (2-11) Sunday, 1 p.m. EST, CBS BetMGM NFL Odds: Ravens by 16. Against the spread: Ravens 6-6-1; Giants 4-9. Series record: Ravens lead 5-3. Last meeting: Giants beat the Ravens 24-20 on Oct. 16, 2022, in East Rutherford, N.J. Last week: Ravens had a bye; Giants lost to Saints 14-11. Ravens: overall (1), rush (2), pass (5), scoring (3) Ravens defense: overall (22), rush (1), pass (32), scoring (23) Giants offense: overall (26), rush (15), pass (28), scoring (32) Giants defense: overall (16), rush (29), pass (6), scoring (T14) Turnover differential: Raven plus-2; Giants minus-8. K Justin Tucker is having the worst season of his outstanding career, and the potentially windy conditions in East Rutherford could post another challenge for him. Baltimore would love to see some signs that he's rounding into form as the playoffs draw closer. QB Tommy DeVito. He is probably going to get his second start of the season with Drew Lock in a walking boot. The New Jersey product didn't do much in a 30-7 loss to Tampa Bay in his first start. He was 21 of 31 for 189 yards and no touchdowns. Playing without Pro Bowler Dexter Lawrence and fellow defensive tackle Rakeem Nunez-Roches, the young line held its own against Alvin Kamara and the Saints last week, limiting the team to 92 yards rushing on 33 carries. Slowing down the league's No. 1 offense and No. 2 running game led by Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry will be a lot tougher. Ravens: WR Rashod Bateman (knee) practiced this week, and Balticmore is generally pretty healthy following its open date. NT Michael Pierce (calf) and LB Kyle Van Noy (hamstring/neck) practiced as well. Giants: CB Deonte Banks (ribs), ILB Bobby Okereke (back), Nunez-Roches (shoulder-neck), T Chris Hubbard (knee), CB Dru Phillips (shoulder), LT Jermaine Eluemunor (quad) all missed last week and could be out again. ... QB Drew Lock (heel), LG Jon Runyan Jr. (ankle) and CB Tre Hawkins (back) were hurt in the game. Hawkins and S Tyler Nubin (ankle) were placed on injured reserve. Runyan is week to week. Lock is unlikely. T Evan Neal (hip-ankle), T Josh Ezeudu (knee), S Dane Belton (knee), WR Malik Nabers (hip), DL Jordon Riley (knee) are on the injury report. The Giants have won the past three games, including the most recent one in Brian Daboll's first season as coach. The Ravens won the biggest game, beating New York 34-7 in the Super Bowl in Tampa, Fla., on Jan. 28, 2001. The Ravens are coming off a bye week. ... Baltimore averages an NFL-leading 422.5 yards of offense. ... Jackson has had an NFL-best eight games of two or more touchdown passes and no interceptions. He's had no picks in 6 of 7 road games this season. ... WR Zay Flowers leads the team with 74 catches. ... Mark Andrews is tied for second among NFL tight ends with seven touchdown receptions. ... LB Roquan Smith aims for his fourth game in a row with at least 11 tackles. He is tied for fifth in the league with 121 tackles. ... LB Kyle Van Noy recovered a fumble for touchdown in his only game against the Giants. ... LB Odafe Oweh has had a sack in his past two road games. ... Nabers leads the Giants with 80 catches, 819 yards and three touchdown receptions. Fellow rookie RB Tyrone Tracy leads the team with 664 yards rushing and five TDs. ... WR Wan’Dale Robinson is second behind Nabers with 67 catches. The Giants are the only team with two players with at least 67 receptions. ... The Giants have an NFL-low eight touchdown receptions. ... Nubin led all rookies with 97 tackles before going on IR. ... Hawkins had an interception last week, the Giants' first since the season opener. ... OLB Brian Burns had a sack, two tackles for loss and a forced fumble against the Saints. .... ILB Micah McFadden had a team-high 11 tackles, including five for losses last week. He is the fifth player in the past five seasons with five TFLs in one game. ... OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux had sack and two TFLs last week. Ravens RB Derrick Henry. He rushed for 170 yards and two touchdowns in only road game against the Giants. He is tied for the NFL lead with 15 overall TDs, 13 rushing. The 30-year-old is second in the league with 1,407 yards rushing and 1,532 yards from scrimmage. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflAre you tired of battling with a hair dryer that takes forever to dry your hair and leaves it looking damaged and frizzy? If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of waiting for your hair to dry while trying to avoid heat damage, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with traditional hair dryers that simply don’t deliver the results they desire. Fortunately, this Black Friday, Dyson is offering a solution that can transform your hair care routine: it offers massive discounts on two of their most innovative products—the Dyson Airwrap and the Dyson Supersonic. The Dyson Airwrap is priced at $499, down from $599 , which is a 17% discount, while the Dyson Supersonic is available for $329, reduced from $429 , offering a 23% savings. Given that Dyson rarely discounts its premium products, this is a rare opportunity to invest in high-quality tools designed to elevate your hair care experience. See Dyson Airwrap at Amazon See Dyson Supersonic at Amazon As you consider these (incredible) options this Black Friday, remember that Amazon offers a best price guarantee: if the price drops further during the promotional period, they will refund you the difference. Plus, with an extended return policy until January 31, 2025—far beyond the usual 30 days—you can shop with confidence this holiday season. What Difference? The Dyson Airwrap uses the revolutionary “Coanda” effect to style and dry hair simultaneously without exposing it to extreme heat. This technology allows the device to attract and wrap hair around its barrels using only air and enables you to create beautiful curls, waves and smooth blowouts without the risk of damage. With 8 attachments—including four curling barrels and various brushes for smoothing and volumizing—the Airwrap caters to a wide range of hair types and styles for salon-quality results right at home. In contrast, the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer is engineered for rapid drying: its powerful digital motor spins up to 6 times faster than traditional dryers and delivers supersonic airspeed that drastically reduces drying time. The Supersonic comes with 5 attachments—a smoothing nozzle, a wide-tooth comb, a flyaway attachment, a diffuser for curly hair, and a gentle air attachment for fine or sensitive hair. With intelligent heat control technology that measures airflow temperature over 40 times per second, it prevents extreme heat damage while enhancing shine. While both devices excel in their respective functions, they cater to different needs: the Dyson Airwrap is perfect for those who want to style their hair while drying it simultaneously . Meanwhile, if your primary goal is quick drying before styling with other tools, the Supersonic is the better choice. See Dyson Airwrap at Amazon See Dyson Supersonic at Amazon
NoneSaudi Arabia Is All Set To Construct The World’s Largest Sports Stadium
Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, extended its remarkable rally on Friday, rising 2.4% to close at a record high. This latest surge came after a federal appeals court upheld a U.S. law mandating that TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, sell the app or face an effective ban. Meta’s stock has now climbed 77% in 2024, following an extraordinary 2023 where it nearly tripled in value. The rally has pushed the company’s market capitalization to nearly $1.6 trillion. Tekedia Mini-MBA edition 16 (Feb 10 – May 3, 2025 ) opens registrations; register today for early bird discounts. Tekedia AI in Business Masterclass opens registrations here. Join Tekedia Capital Syndicate and i nvest in Africa’s finest startups here . Meta wasn’t the only tech giant reaching new peaks. Amazon also closed at an all-time high on Friday, bringing its gains for the year to 49%. The strong performance of tech megacap companies helped propel the Nasdaq Composite Index to a record close. The index rose 0.8% on Friday, extending its year-to-date gains to 32%. Meanwhile, Apple, another tech heavyweight, saw a slight dip from its record high earlier in the week. Zuckerberg Courts Trump Administration Meta’s rising fortunes coincide with CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s apparent efforts to engage with the incoming Trump administration. Zuckerberg joined President-elect Donald Trump for a dinner at the Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida last week, where he reportedly demonstrated Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses. The meeting, first reported by Fox News, comes after years of sharp criticism from Trump, raising speculation that Zuckerberg is seeking a cooperative role in the new administration. TikTok, one of Meta’s most formidable rivals, is at the heart of a geopolitical and legal battle that could reshape the U.S. social media industry. The app, popular with younger audiences and boasting around 170 million U.S. users, has faced mounting scrutiny over its ties to the Chinese government. The U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., delivered a unanimous ruling on Friday rejecting TikTok’s claims that the divestment law violates the First Amendment and other constitutional protections. “The U.S. government provided persuasive evidence demonstrating that the Act protects national security in a manner consistent with the Constitution,” the court wrote. In response, TikTok announced plans to appeal to the Supreme Court. “The Supreme Court has an established historical record of protecting Americans’ right to free speech, and we expect they will do just that on this important constitutional issue,” a TikTok spokesperson said. If TikTok fails to comply with the law by January 2025, companies like Apple, Google, and internet hosting providers will be required to sever ties with the app, effectively banning its operation in the U.S. Meta’s Revival: The “Year of Efficiency” But Meta’s current rally began in late 2022 and accelerated in 2023 after Zuckerberg declared it the company’s “year of efficiency.” This strategic shift saw Meta cut approximately 21,000 jobs and revamp its advertising systems using advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). In its most recent earnings report, Meta posted a 19% year-over-year revenue increase, though it cautioned investors about significant infrastructure spending planned for 2025. The company reported 3.29 billion “daily active people” across its platforms in the third quarter, a modest 5% increase from the previous year. Meta has heavily invested in AI development, including building data centers and acquiring high-performance Nvidia graphics processing units. On Threads, Zuckerberg announced that Meta AI now has nearly 600 million monthly active users and teased the upcoming release of Llama 3.3, the latest version of its open-source large language model. However, Zuckerberg did not clarify how Meta calculates “monthly active” users for its AI products. The TikTok ruling could dramatically alter the competitive dynamics of the social media industry, giving Meta a significant edge. As one of TikTok’s fiercest competitors, Meta stands to benefit from any disruption to the platform. Analysts note that Meta’s diversified product portfolio, including Instagram Reels and Facebook’s massive user base, positions it to capture market share should TikTok face restrictions.South Korean President Yoon's impeachment vote fails after ruling party boycotts it
Watch: Former Oregon Ducks’ star joins exclusive clubANKARA, Turkey (AP) — The recent rapid advance by opposition fighters in Syria shows that Syrian President Bashar Assad must reconcile with his own people and hold dialogue with the opposition, the Turkish foreign minister said Monday. At a joint news conference in Ankara with his Iranian counterpart, Hakan Fidan said Turkey and Iran, which support opposing sides in Syria’s civil war, have agreed to resume diplomatic efforts along with Russia to restore calm days after insurgents launched a lightning offensive and captured almost all of the country’s largest city, Aleppo. The swift advance by fighters that Turkey supports was a huge embarrassment for Assad and it comes at a time when his allies — Iran and groups it backs and Russia — are preoccupied with their own conflicts. The push is among the rebels’ strongest in years and raises the prospect of another violent front reopening in the Middle East when U.S.-backed Israel is fighting Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, both Iranian-allied groups. Fidan, whose country has backed forces opposed to Assad, blamed the recent flare-up of the conflict on the Syrian government’s refusal to enter a dialogue with the opposition that Turkey supports. “Recent developments show once again that Damascus must reconcile with its own people and the legitimate opposition,” the Turkish minister said. “Turkey is ready to make all the necessary contribution toward this.” Fidan’s comments emerged amid Turkish frustration that recent efforts toward a reconciliation with Assad have fallen flat. The comments indicated that the shock offensive launched by opposition fighters could be aimed at pressuring the Syrian leader to engage in political talks. Turkey has been seeking to normalize ties with Syria to address security threats from groups affiliated with Kurdish militants along its southern border and to help ensure the safe return of more than 3 million Syrian refugees. Assad has insisted that Turkey’s withdrawal of its forces from northern Syria be a condition for any normalization between the two countries. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who visited Assad on Sunday before traveling to Ankara, reiterated Tehran’s full support for the Syrian government. Iran has been one of Assad’s principal political and military supporters and has deployed military advisers and forces after 2011 protests against Assad’s rule turned into an all-out war. Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have deployed in Syria to back the government’s counteroffensive against the insurgents, an Iraqi militia official and a war monitor said Monday. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based opposition war monitor, some 200 Iraqi militiamen riding on pickups crossed into Syria overnight through the strategic Bou Kamal crossing. They were expected to deploy in Aleppo to support the Syrian army’s pushback against the insurgents, the monitor said. Meanwhile, Associated Press video showed armed insurgents at Aleppo's international airport, one of them standing on a Syrian government flag and others tearing down a poster of Assad. Insurgents were also seen mounting abandoned aircraft and walking around airport grounds strewn with weapons and ammunition boxes. The rebel offensive in Syria has caused concern among neighboring countries that the conflict could spill over. In Iraq, Interior Ministry spokesperson Brig. Gen. Miqdad Miri said security forces have deployed in greater numbers to protect their large border with Syria. Fidan reiterated Turkey’s support for Syria’s territorial integrity, but suggested that Turkey would not hesitate to intervene against Syrian Kurdish militia groups that Turkey considers to be terrorists if they “exploit the environment of instability.” “It was a mistake to ignore the legitimate demands of the opposition and for the (Syrian) regime not to sincerely engage in the political process,” Fidan said. Turkey, he added, "will never, ever allow terrorist organizations that seek to exploit the environment of instability," Fidan said. “We will eliminate any threat to our national security and our people wherever it emerges.” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed hope that the instability in Syria would come to an end “in line with the legitimate demands of the Syrian people.” He spoke Monday at a joint news conference with the president of Montenegro. Both Fidan and Araghchi said Turkey, Iran and Russia would convene a new three-way meeting to address the conflict in Syria. "We have decided to hold closer consultations and dialogue, and with God’s permission, we will cooperate to further improve the situation toward peace and stability in our region,” Araghchi said. Russia, whose intervention in Syria’s civil war on behalf of Assad was crucial in turning the conflict in his favor, has said it will continue to support him. “We continue our contacts at the appropriate level,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters Monday. “A position will be formed regarding what is needed to stabilize the situation.” The U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said the Assad regime has ignored Security Council resolutions and refused to come to the table. “We are watching that situation very closely, and we will continue to engage with partners in the region to find a path for the situation to go back to calm,” she said. As Syrian and Russian jets continued pounding targets, two airstrikes hit a group of four hospitals and the health directorate building in Idlib city, the Syrian Civil Defense force that operates in opposition-held areas, known as the White Helmets, said. Two people in Idlib University Hospital died after their oxygen machines turned off following the strikes. Ceiling panels and doors at the hospital were blown off, while ambulances and vehicles outside were severely damaged according to footage taken by journalist with The Associated Press at the hospital. At least 15 civilians were killed in Idlib city and province, according to the White Helmets. Syrian Kurds were fleeing the fighting in large numbers after Turkish-backed rebels seized Tel Rifaat from rival U.S.-backed Kurdish authorities. The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces largely withdrew and called for a humanitarian corridor to allow people to leave safely in convoys toward Aleppo and later to Kurdish-led northeast regions. Chehayeb reported from Beirut. Associated Press writers Nasser Karimi in Tehran, Iran, and Qassim Abdul-Zahra in Baghdad contributed to this report.Tech founders and Silicon Valley VCs who supported — and threw their money behind — Donald Trump are being handsomely rewarded by the President-elect. Shortly after winning the 2024 election, Trump appointed one of his biggest supporters, Elon Musk , to head up a new agency called the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. Now, Trump is rewarding another wealthy tech founder for their loyalty: investor and podcaster David Sacks. "I am pleased to announce that David O. Sacks will be the 'White House A.I. & Crypto Czar,'" Trump announced in a post on his social media platform Truth Social. "In this important role, David will guide policy for the Administration in Artificial Intelligence and Cryptocurrency, two areas critical to the future of American competitiveness." According to Trump, Sacks' role will be to "safeguard Free Speech online" and "work on a legal framework" for the cryptocurrency industry. Trump also shared that Sacks would lead the Presidential Council of Advisors for Science and Technology. Sacks will be involved in crucial policy aspects of both a burgeoning technology in AI and a crypto industry ripe with fraud but expecting favorable treatment after throwing its support behind Trump. "Congrats to czar @DavidSacks!" OpenAI's Sam Altman posted on X shortly after the announcement from Trump. Who is David Sacks? Regular users of Musk's X , formerly Twitter, may have seen Sacks pop-up on the platform from time to time. Sacks' opinions obsessing over Russia's war with Ukraine have previously gone viral. He has often been critiqued for his seemingly pro-Russia and anti-Ukraine positions as well as fearmongering over a potential World War III. However, Sacks and Musk actually have history with each other — and a similar background. Like Musk, Sacks emigrated to the U.S. from South Africa. And in 1999, Sacks worked with Peter Thiel at PayPal, joining Musk as a member in the "PayPal Mafia," a group of early PayPal employees and founders who went on to find greater success founding their own tech startups. David Sacks and Elon Musk in 2006. In 2008, Sacks co-founded Yammer, a social media platform for enterprises. Microsoft acquired Yammer in 2012 for $1.2 billion. Microsoft would go on to integrate Yammer within its Microsoft 365 products. Since then, Sacks has invested in a number of tech startups and companies. He founded a VC firm called Craft Ventures in 2017. In 2020, Sacks started the All-In podcast alongside Jason Calacanis, Chamath Palihapitiya, and David Friedberg. The podcast, where the four entrepreneurs discuss business and current events, has gained popularity in tech circles. Over time, the show has shown increasing support for right-wing politics, including hosting Trump for an interview in June and featuring Sacks broadcasting live from the Republican National Convention during the summer. Sacks, specifically, has been increasingly making a name for himself in right-wing circles, opposing prominent progressive politicians and public servants over recent years. And while Sacks previously said that Trump's role in the Jan. 6 storming of the Capitol disqualified the former president from serving again, the VC quickly changed his tune and hosted a high-ticket fundraiser for Trump's campaign earlier this year. For Sacks, it appears like the pro-Trump move has paid off — barring any future falling outs with the 47th President.
Jailed PKK Leader open to working with Turkey, DEM Says
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Goldman Decides to Leave World’s Top Climate Alliance for BanksRuud van Nistelrooy ‘disappointed’ and ‘hurt’ after cutting ties with Man Utd
Austin Tice’s family says long-missing journalist is alive as war resurges in SyriaCentral banks, Trump win cause market turmoilNone
TikTok closer to US ban after losing court appeal
Altus Group Limited ( TSE:AIF – Get Free Report ) announced a quarterly dividend on Thursday, November 7th, Zacks Dividends reports. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, December 31st will be paid a dividend of 0.15 per share on Wednesday, January 15th. This represents a $0.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.06%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, December 31st. Altus Group Stock Up 0.0 % TSE AIF opened at C$56.35 on Friday. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of C$56.48 and a 200-day moving average price of C$54.02. Altus Group has a one year low of C$40.01 and a one year high of C$61.09. The company has a market capitalization of C$2.59 billion, a P/E ratio of 939.17, a P/E/G ratio of 0.96 and a beta of 0.82. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 57.13, a quick ratio of 1.30 and a current ratio of 1.41. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of equities analysts have commented on the stock. CIBC lifted their price objective on shares of Altus Group from C$52.00 to C$60.00 and gave the stock a “neutral” rating in a research note on Thursday, December 19th. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price target on Altus Group from C$55.00 to C$56.00 in a research report on Friday, November 8th. Finally, National Bankshares upped their price objective on Altus Group from C$50.00 to C$55.00 in a research report on Thursday, September 19th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of C$57.11. Insiders Place Their Bets In related news, Director William Brennan bought 1,227 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction on Tuesday, December 17th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of C$56.43 per share, for a total transaction of C$69,239.61. Insiders have acquired a total of 48,973 shares of company stock worth $2,790,608 over the last quarter. Company insiders own 4.05% of the company’s stock. Altus Group Company Profile ( Get Free Report ) Altus Group Limited provides asset and funds intelligence solutions for commercial real estate (CRE). The company operates through Analytics, Property Tax, and Appraisals and Development Advisory segments. The Analytics segment portfolio includes software, data analytics, market data, and consulting services; CRE asset and fund management services; ARGUS-branded, finance active-branded debt management, and valuation management solutions; technology consulting services, such as strategic advisory for front-to-back-office strategies, processes, and technology; and software services related to education, training, and implementation. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Altus Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Altus Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .How major US stock indexes fared Monday, 12/2/2024
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Mike Tyson facing $1.6 million lawsuit over alleged deal break ahead of Jake Paul fight
The Supreme Court agreed Friday to hear cases that examine whether Palestinian groups can be sued in U.S. courts over terrorist attacks against U.S. citizens abroad, and when prisoners are barred from petitioning courts to review their convictions. The justices consolidated two cases dealing with long-running lawsuits filed by families of U.S. victims killed or injured in terrorist attacks in Israel that allegedly were perpetrated by the Palestine Liberation Organization and the Palestinian Authority.U.S. stocks close mixedSignal Gold Shareholders Overwhelmingly Approve Transaction With NexGold Mining
Dalyn Wakely scores pair to lead Colts to 3-1 victory over BattalionUS politicians on both sides have reacted to news that former US President Jimmy Carter, who as president brokered peace between Israel and Egypt and later received the Nobel Peace Prize for his humanitarian work, has died at age 100. Login or signup to continue reading Here are some of the immediate comments. PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN AND FIRST LADY JILL BIDEN "Today, America and the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian. Over six decades, we had the honour of calling Jimmy Carter a dear friend. But, what's extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well." US PRESIDENT-ELECT DONALD TRUMP "The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude. Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers." FORMER US PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON AND FORMER SECRETARY OF STATE HILLARY CLINTON "From his commitment to civil rights as a state senator and governor of Georgia; to his efforts as President to protect our natural resources in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, make energy conservation a national priority, return the Panama Canal to Panama, and secure peace between Egypt and Israel at Camp David; to his post-Presidential efforts at the Carter Centre supporting honest elections, advancing peace, combating disease, and promoting democracy; to his and Rosalynn's devotion and hard work at Habitat for Humanity—he worked tirelessly for a better, fairer world." US SENATOR MITCH MCCONNELL "Elaine and I join the Senate and the nation in mourning the passing of our 39th president, Jimmy Carter." "President Carter served during times of tension and uncertainty, both at home and abroad. But his calm spirit and deep faith seemed unshakeable. Jimmy Carter served as our commander-in-chief for four years, but he served as the beloved, unassuming Sunday school teacher at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia for forty. And his humble devotion leaves us little doubt which of those two important roles he prized the most." US HOUSE SPEAKER MIKE JOHNSON "Today, the thoughts of Americans and the prayers of Congress are lifted up on behalf of the Carter family. President Carter's story was one of humble beginnings, and his life is a testament to the boundless opportunities available in this great nation. Because of his work in brokering the Camp David Accords and his advocacy with Habitat for Humanity, the world is a more peaceful place, and more Americans have a place to call home. No one can deny that President Carter led an extraordinary life of service to his country. May he rest in peace." US REPRESENTATIVE MIKE TURNER "I am deeply saddened to learn about the death of President Jimmy Carter. President Carter was a man of integrity who was guided by his faith. I join all Americans in saluting President Carter for his lifetime of service, first as a naval officer, then as a senator in the Georgia State Senate, then as Governor of Georgia, and, finally, as President of the United States. I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to the Carter family." US SENATOR MARK WARNER "President Carter will be remembered by what he built and left behind for us – a model of service late into life, a tireless devotion to family and philanthropy, and a more peaceful world to call home." Australian Associated Press DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update. WEEKDAYS Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. WEEKLY The latest news, results & expert analysis. 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PRIMARK shoppers are going wild for the chain’s latest drop of stocking fillers. So with the big day just 19 days away, if you’ve still got gifts to buy, but are on a budget and can’t afford to splash the cash on pricey presents this year, then fear not, we’ve got you covered. Thanks to Primark , you won’t have to break the bank on gifts this Christmas - as they have a range of brilliant buys for less than £5. There’s all things from candles and bath fizzes, to wine charms and games, so you’re sure to find something for your loved ones. Primark took to social media to give shoppers a close-up look at the new festive finds, leaving many open-mouthed. The short clip was posted alongside the caption ‘Gifts so good, you’ll want to keep them for yourself’, as the chain shared ‘‘You bring the joy, we bring the Primark’. Read more Primark stories If you’re looking for a gift for a stationary lover, you’ll be thrilled to know that there’s a lovely selection of notebooks, ranging from just £1. Not only this, but if you need something for a beauty fan, there’s a posh scented candle and bath fizzer gift set that’s priced at just £4. It comes in four colours and scents, but the Vanilla and Tonka set is sure to go down a treat with those looking to relax and unwind. All wrapped up in a nice box with a bow on the top, this gift is a great self-care treat and is bound to put a smile on your loved one’s face this December. Most read in Fabulous If that wasn’t enough, Primark are also selling a set of six wine charms, which are guaranteed to add some festive flair to your festive gatherings. Not only will these colourful charms make it easy to keep track of your glass, but they’re sure to add a touch of holiday cheer to every sip. And for just £4, we think they’re a real bargain . But that’s not all, as Primark also has a variety of fun games to choose from too. Heading into Primark soon? Keep an eye out for these items. Here, Fabulous fashion editor Clemmie Fieldsend reveals her top 6 buys from Primark this Autumn. Coat , £60 I know what you’re thinking, ‘£60 for Primark?’ Yes it’s a higher price tag than we’re used to from Primark but its worth every penny. It’s from their Edit range which is more premium than the rest of their collection and it's made to last. It’s a mixed wool blend which is durable and warm, plus its a timeless straight silhouette which is slightly oversized and will last you not only this season but for many after. Bag, £16 Big bags are back... In a big way, finally. This tote screams luxury with its croc effect and burnt orange colour, plus its great for shoving in your laptop, lunch, spare shoes, purse - essentially everything you need for the day - all for £16. Jacket , £32 Field jackets are on the backs of celebrities and catwalk models this season with designer brands Barbour, Burberry and Bottega all championing the utilitarian look. They’re great for chucking over jeans or contrasting with a floral or floaty dress and are the perfect transitional jacket. Dress , £18, You may have seen, heard and read that leopard print isn’t going anywhere for autumn, so to encapsulate the trend this dress is a must. Sleeves? Check. Midi length? Check. Ultra flattering square neck? Check. It’s got it all. Pair with black knee high boots or your favourite trainers for the day and dress up with gold heels and accessories for the evening. Jeans , £16 Barrel, balloon, horseshoe - whatever you want to call them, they are the must have trouser shape of this season. I’ve tried Primarks pair and they fit like a dream, are comfortable and flattering. So if you think you have nothing that hits the trend mark, swapping your go-to denim for this shape will bring you bang up to date. Boot s, £24 It's boot season and instead of feeling like you need to buy one in every colour, length, height - its best to stick to a pair that you can wear with the majority of your wardrobe. My jaw almost hit the floor when I saw that this black, knee-high, block heel with flat point and side zip (so there’s no tug of war to get them off at the end of the day) was only £24. If you buy one thing this season, it should be these. You won’t have to worry about feeling bored with your annoying family members this month, as the 00s Who Am I, which includes pairs of glasses and celebrities to guess, is bound to get you all talking. It’s just £3.50 and will make the perfect gift for those looking to have fun this Christmas. Fabulous stocking fillers But there’s more - as there’s also a wide variety of gifts for under £10 too. Not only are Primark stocking pyjama sets for £10, which come in a variety of colours, materials and styles , but you can also get your hands on a ramen seasoning set for just £7. JUST how does Primark do it? Continue delivering on-trend items at such incredible prices? According to bosses, it's down to four points. They "sell a lot of items" - Thanks to that, they are able to make savings by buying in bulk for their 191 UK stores They "do very little advertising" While their clothes offer the "latest trends", they "don’t use expensive hangers, tags or labels". And lastly, they try to be "as efficient as possible when transporting products from factories to stores". This includes things like asking "suppliers to pack our t-shirts so they are ready to go straight on shelf". For more information about how Primark keeps their costs so low, and are able to deliver such amazing bargains, visit the Primark website. Gift recipients of all ages are sure to be impressed with the hot chocolate mix which comes in a cute doughnut mug and is only £7, and the fun sushi socks with chopsticks are great for foodies . The Instagram clip, which was posted on the official @ primark account, has clearly left many open-mouthed, as it has quickly amassed 578,000 views and 4,220 likes. READ MORE SUN STORIES Primark fans flocked to the comments to share their love of the cheap buys through love heart and flame emojis . Meanwhile, one person beamed: “Fabulous stocking fillers .”
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BISMARCK — Lawmakers who will lead in the 2025 Legislature were officially assigned to committees Wednesday, Dec. 4, resulting in few surprises for senior members. The Committees on Committees, headed by majority leaders in the House and Senate, decides which lawmakers are appointed to what committees. ADVERTISEMENT Some work with policy related to sectors such as education or agriculture, while others allocate money for government operations. During the organizational session, lawmakers rank their committee preferences in a survey administered by the Legislative Council. If a committee has fewer openings than the number of lawmakers who are interested in being a member, then the Committee on Committees decides who gets the position. The decision is based on their “institutional knowledge” of the Legislature and or professional experience outside lawmaking, according to House Majority Leader Mike Lefor, R-Dickinson. “We've got some really good committee chairs and vice chairs, both on policy committees and appropriations committees that are, I think without exception, excellent legislators,” Lefor said. How committee chairs are selected, however, has been a sore spot for some lawmakers amid a long stint of all-male leaders. “I'm not saying it's always just a woman issue," said Rep. Vicky Steiner, R-Dickinson. “It’s relationship driven. I believe if you have a better relationship with the leader, you have a better chance of becoming a chairman.” ADVERTISEMENT Since 2013, only men have led House committees and will again for the 2025 session. Steiner introduced a bill last session to break the pattern. Steiner added that some lawmakers, however, don't want to be chairs — including women. Lefor pointed out that there were just three new chairs appointed this year, two of which were lawmakers who had served as vice chairs of the respective committee and one who he said had relevant experience. Republican Rep. Jonathan Warrey, a tech CEO from Casselton, will chair the Industry, Business and Labor Committee despite being a second-term lawmaker. The chairs typically end up being previous vice chairs or someone with a “tremendous” amount of relevant experience, Lefor said. “I will say that I'm a strong proponent of women in leadership, because I've gone to different seminars that clearly state that the better functioning boards are the ones that have both (men and women),” Lefor said. Lefor also pointed out that there are four more women as vice chairs this session as opposed to just one in 2023 and additionally, several women chaired interim committees between the upcoming session and the last. ADVERTISEMENT The Senate will have three women serving as chairs of 14 committees. House These Republicans will chair the following committees. Appropriations: Don Vigesaa, Cooperstown; Mike Nathe, Bismarck; Government Operations: Dave Monson, Osnabrock; Human Resources: Jon Nelson, Rugby; Education: Pat Heinert, Bismarck. Finance and Taxation: Craig Headland, Montpelier; Human Services: Matt Ruby, Minot; Industry, Business and Labor: Jonathan Warrey, Casselton; Judiciary: Lawrence Klemin, Bismarck; Agriculture: Mike Beltz, Hillsboro. Government and Veterans Affairs: Austen Schauer, West Fargo; Energy and Natural Resources: Todd Porter, Mandan; Political Subdivisions: Don Longmuir, Stanley; Transportation: Dan Ruby, Minot. Senate These Republicans will chair the following committees. Appropriations: Brad Bekkedahl, Williston; Education and Environment: Ronald Sorvaag, Fargo; Government Operations: Terry Wanzek, Jamestown; Human Resources: Dick Denver, Bismarck; Education: Todd Beard, Williston. ADVERTISEMENT Official committee assignments can be found on the Legislative Council website.
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At more than three hours, it stars Adrien Brody as an architect after World War II and was made on a shoestring budget after years of delays.NoneDaniel Jones is free to sign with any NFL team after clearing waivers on Monday, which also means the team that signs the former New York Giants quarterback won't be on the hook for the nearly $12 million that was remaining on his contract this year or his $23 million injury guarantee. Jones was released at his request by the Giants on Saturday after the former first-round pick was benched last week. He reportedly wants to join a contender, and there are expected to be multiple teams interested. The two teams reported to have the most initial interest in Jones are also being offered as the most likely to sign him by one sportsbook. The Baltimore Ravens currently have journeyman backup Josh Johnson behind starting quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jones would potentially provide a third option, and one whose mobility could make him an intriguing fit in offensive coordinator Todd Monken's system The Ravens were installed as the 2/1 favorites to land Jones ahead of the Minnesota Vikings (5/2), who have veterans Nick Mullens and Brett Rypien behind starter Sam Darnold. They would likely view Jones as an upgrade. "I really can't get into too much about any short-term or long-term," Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said Monday when asked about Jones, per ESPN's Adam Schefter. "I can just say that I've been a big fan of Daniel's for a long time and I hope wherever his next step takes him, it's a good opportunity for him." The Las Vegas Raiders (5/1) don't fall into the category of contenders after falling to 2-9 amid a seven-game losing streak. However, they could provide the most immediate opportunity to play with Gardner Minshew suffering a season-ending broken collarbone on Sunday that is expected to end his season. Second-year quarterback Aidan O'Connell is close to returning from a thumb injury, but coach Antonio Pierce acknowledged after Sunday's game that, "We're going to need somebody, right?" If O'Connell isn't ready to face the Kansas City Chiefs on Black Friday, Desmond Ridder is expected to get the start. The Dallas Cowboys (7/1) would fall into a similar category, with Dak Prescott out for the season following hamstring surgery and being replaced by Cooper Rush. Another intriguing possibility lies with Detroit, where the 10-1 Lions' offense is rolling with Jared Goff at the helm. However, should he go down to injury the only other quarterback on the roster is rookie Hendon Hooker. That has contributed to the Lions having 7/1 odds to sign Jones. DANIEL JONES NEXT TEAM ODDS* Baltimore Ravens (2/1) Minnesota Vikings (5/2) Las Vegas Raiders (5/1) Dallas Cowboys (7/1) Detroit Lions (7/1) Miami Dolphins (7/1) San Francisco 49ers (8/1) Carolina Panthers (10/1) Seattle Seahawks (16/1) Indianapolis Colts (20/1) New England Patriots (25/1) New Orleans Saints (25/1) New York Jets (25/1) Tennessee Titans (25/1) Atlanta Falcons (28/1) Arizona Cardinals (33/1) Chicago Bears (33/1) Cleveland Browns (33/1) Denver Broncos (33/1) Jacksonville Jaguars (40/1) Los Angeles Chargers (50/1) Los Angeles Rams (50/1) Pittsburgh Steelers (50/1) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (50/1) Washington Commanders (50/1) Cincinnati Bengals (66/1) Green Bay Packers (66/1) Houston Texans (66/1) Philadelphia Eagles (66/1) Buffalo Bills (75/1) Kansas City Chiefs (75/1) Any CFL Team (80/1) Any XFL Team (80/1) *Odds provided by SportsBetting.ag are for entertainment purposes only. --Field Level Media
It was revealed earlier this year that Edu Gaspar, sporting director of Arsenal , would be departing the North London club , reportedly to take up a role overseeing the clubs owned by Nottingham Forest and Olympiacos owner Evangelos Marinakis. Edu became Arsenal’s first-ever sporting director in 2022, having previously served as technical director since 2019. Edu has overseen the appointment and rise of Mikel Arteta at Arsenal, the Spaniard having offered the Gunners consistent challenges for honours for the first time since the departure of Arsene Wenger in 2018. It remains to be seen who will replace the Brazilian, who played for Arsenal between 2001 and 2005, but reports are circulating and names are being suggested. With all the intrigue surrounding Edu’s eventual replacement, it is surely worth asking the question, just which sporting director could we realistically see move to North London to take over the same job with Arsenal? Lists, as a concept, are subjective. It is more than feasible for two lists on the same topic to have differing entrants depending on the opinions of the writer. With that being said, this list has been ranked with a focus on realism, options that could understandably take a job at the Emirates. Txiki Begiristain, for example, has not been included here. While the Spaniard will be departing Manchester City at the end of the season, he realistically will not be leaving to take over a title rival straight away. Gary Neville has revealed that he believes Edu's departure from Arsenal is strange. Potential New Sporting Directors for Arsenal Name Current Club Former Club(s) Roberto Olabe Real Sociedad N/A Luis Campos Paris Saint-Germain Monaco, Lille Phil Giles Brentford N/A Michael Zorc N/A Borussia Dortmund Simon Rolfes Bayer Leverkusen N/A Andrea Berta Atletico Madrid N/A Florian Maurice Nice Stade Rennais 7 Florian Maurice After 14 years of playing as a striker, Florian Maurice called time on his career in 2005, being appointed as a scout with Lyon four years later. Maurice would hold that position for over a decade until, in 2020, Stade Rennais appointed him as their new technical director. Maurice would spend four years with Stade Rennais and it was under his vision that the club developed into a consistent challenger for European football. The club finished in the top six of Ligue 1 in each of Maurice’s four seasons at the club, as they often pushed into the knockout stages of European competitions and reached a Coupe de France semi-final in the 2023/24 season. Earlier this year, it was announced by Stade Rennais that Maurice’s contract had been terminated after a mutual agreement was reached. He was soon after that announced as Nice’s new sporting director, with president Jean-Pierre Rivere saying of Maurice, “with him, we’re choosing reliability, expertise and a long-term vision,” as manager Franck Haise was appointed at the same time. At the time of writing, Nice are 6th in the league after 11 games played, having lost just twice thus far this season. Given how recently Maurice joined Nice, he is perhaps more of an outlier than others on this list, but in modern football, it is far from uncommon to see people, players or otherwise, move on after just one campaign, with an opportunity the size of Arsenal perhaps being big enough for such a move to materialise. 6 Andrea Berta Italian Andrea Berta was appointed as sporting director of Atletico Madrid in 2017, the same year that the Madrid side moved from their old, Vicente Calderon stadium to the Wanda Metropolitano. He had previously spent four years with the club as a technical director, overseeing them reach two Champions League finals. In the seven years since his appointment as sporting director, the club have won a Europa League title in 2018 and the 2020/21 La Liga title. Berta has been given credit for overseeing a change in Atletico’s transfer policy, guiding them away from financial mismanagement. Both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly shown interest in the Italian before, with teams of that calibre being tempted to appoint him suggesting he is of high worth. Whether Berta would depart Atletico, a club he has been linked to for over a decade, remains to be seen, but it seems plausible that Arsenal will at least consider his name in their search for a new sporting director to succeed Edu. Richard Hughes has been confirmed as Liverpool's new sporting director, and is among the best in the world. 5 Simon Rolfes A former midfielder, Simon Rolfes’ connection to Bayer Leverkusen stretches back to 2005, when he joined them as a player after a season with Alemmania Aachen. Retiring after a decade of service, Rolfes was then appointed as Leverkusen’s academy manager in 2018, moving onto the position of sporting director that same year, which was upgraded in 2022 to the title of “managing director of sport.” Particularly in recent years, Leverkusen have risen to a high pedestal under the guidance of Xabi Alonso who, under Rolfes’ supervision, guided the club to an unbeaten Bundesliga and DFB Pokal double-winning season, also reaching the Europa League final that they lost 3-0 to Atalanta . Signings made during Rolfes’ tenure include the feared wing-back duo of Grimaldo and Jeremie Frimpong, midfielder Granit Xhaka and striker Victor Boniface, amongst many others. It is understandable that Rolfes’ stock has gone up exponentially and it would make sense for the Gunners to at least consider the German as an option, though it is hard to know whether the challenge would be tempting enough for Rolfes to leave a club, on the up no less, that he’s been affiliated with for nearly two decades. 4 Michael Zorc Few are as interlinked with any one club as Michael Zorc is with Borussia Dortmund . Born in the city and joining the club’s youth academy in 1978, Zorc made his senior debut three years later and spent his entire, 17-year career with Die Schwarzgelben, winning two Bundesliga titles and a Champions League towards the end of his career. Upon his retirement, Zorc was swiftly appointed as the club’s sporting director, a position he would hold until stepping down in 2022 to end a 44-year affiliation with Dortmund. Zorc was a key figure, alongside Hans-Joachim Watzke, in helping the club escape the financial troubles that plagued them in the 2000s, ultimately guiding them towards three Bundesliga titles in 2002, 2011 and 2012, the latter two being won by a certain Jurgen Klopp . Zorc has not worked as a sporting director since his departure from Dortmund and his current status of being unemployed may lead Arsenal to consider the German as Edu’s replacement. It is hard to imagine Zorc ever working for another German team, so were he to re-enter the world of football in his previous position, it would most likely be for a club based abroad, such as Arsenal. 3 Phil Giles Phil Giles has spent almost a decade at Brentford , having originally been hired alongside Rasmus Ankersen as co-directors of football. Ankersen has since departed and now holds the same role at Premier League club Southampton , while too being the president of Goztepe. Giles, however, has remained, and has overseen Brentford’s rise into a consistent Premier League presence. Giles has been at the forefront of negotiations for the likes of Ivan Toney , Bryan Mbuemo, Ollie Watkins , Yoane Wissa and many more, including recent, costlier additions like Nathan Collins, Kevin Schade and Fabio Carvalho . Brentford’s recent rise is nothing short of admirable and Giles, alongside long-serving manager Thomas Frank, deserve the utmost respect for the job they’ve done. With Giles’ quality, though, comes suitors. Given his calibre and location, already being based in the capital, it would make sense for Arsenal to at least consider Giles as Edu’s replacement, given both the logistics and potential for a massive upside. 2 Luis Campos Spending over a decade as a manager after a brief, two-year playing career, Luis Campos first earned his flowers as a sporting director during a three-year stint with Monaco between 2013 and 2016. Some major signings included the arrivals of Radamel Falcao , James Rodriguez , Joao Moutinho and Fabinho , amongst many others. Not only did Campos make smart signings, but was a strong negotiator with regards to outgoings. Anthony Martial became the most expensive teenager in football history, at the time, when he joined Manchester United in 2015. Sales of others like Geoffrey Kondogbia, Layvin Kurzawa and Yannick Carrasco saw Monaco make well over £100 million in one window. Campos joined Lille in 2017, though he oversaw a tough first season in which the club only just avoided relegation. The following season, however, saw Lille return to Champions League football after seven years. In his three years with Lille, Campos negotiated the transfer that sent Nicolas Pepe to Arsenal for £72 million and brought in talents such as Rafael Leao , Victor Osimhen and veterans Jose Fonte and Loic Remy. Almost two years after his stint at Lille came to an end, Campos joined Paris Saint-Germain and has overseen a shift in transfer policy, with the Parisians focusing more on young talents with room to grow, the likes of Nuno Mendes, Joao Neves and Vitinha having arrived in the French capital. Sky Sports have reported that Arsenal are considering Campos’ name as a replacement for the recently-departed Edu . It would make sense as an appointment for the Gunners, who would be bringing in a proven and experienced sporting director in Campos should they choose to pursue him. Paris Saint-Germain sporting director Luis Campos has fallen short of rubbishing suggestions that a big-money offer was made for Lamine Yamal 1 Roberto Olabe Roberto Olabe spent a decade playing professional football as a goalkeeper. He was a Real Sociedad player for the final four years of his career, playing as second choice to Alberto before retiring in 1999. He managed sporadically between 1999 and 2012, including a brief stint as Sociedad manager, before moving into a director of football role with them, departing in December 2005 to manage Eibar. In 2018, Olabe returned to Real Sociedad, once again becoming their director of football in March to replace Loren in his third spell at the club, having served briefly in the role in 2016. Under his guidance across six years, Sociedad would not only win a Copa del Rey in 2020, but have since achieved the honour of Champions League qualification. Olabe oversaw young, promising talents like Mikel Merino , Martin Odegaard and Alexander Isak coming to the club, who turned them into stars that they sold for high fees. Within the club, youth talents like Mikel Oyarzabal , Robin Le Normand and Martin Zubamendi all rose through the ranks to become consistent starters. When it was announced that Olabe would be leaving Sociedad at the end of the season, a year before his contract was due to expire, it drew many eyes. Maybe Arsenal were one of those clubs before Edu’s departure, but such an event, combined with potential Northern Spain connections between Arteta and Sociedad, will surely make them look at Olabe with some more intent. One of Europe's best sporting directors is set to be on the market this summerAn Ole Miss student exchanged messages with the man now on trial in his killing, police saySan Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy will miss Sunday's game against the Packers with a sore throwing shoulder
JHVEPhoto/iStock Editorial via Getty Images Medtronic ( NYSE: MDT ) shares continued losses for seven straight sessions, as the stock closed 0.7% lower at $82.94 on Wednesday. The Galway, Ireland-based MedTech giant lost over 2% in the preceding six sessions. Overall, the stock has gained nearly 2% so far this year, compared to the
Words on ammo in CEO shooting echo common phrase on insurer tactics: Delay, deny, defend A message left at the scene of an insurance executive’s fatal shooting echoes a phrase commonly used to describe insurer tactics to avoid paying claims. The words “deny,” “defend” and “depose” were written on the ammunition used to kill UnitedHealthcare's CEO. That's according to two officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Thursday. The words are similar to the phrase “delay, deny, defend.” That's how attorneys describe insurers denying services and payment, and the title of a 2010 book critical of the industry. Police haven’t officially commented on the words. But Thompson’s shooting and the messages on the ammunition have sparked outrage on social media and elsewhere, reflecting frustration Americans have over the cost and complexity of getting care. Bitcoin has surpassed the $100,000 mark as the post-election rally continues. What's next? NEW YORK (AP) — Bitcoin has topped the $100,000 mark, extending a rally in the world’s most popular cryptocurrency sparked by the election of Donald Trump. The milestone comes just hours after the president-elect signaled a lighter regulatory approach to the crypto industry with his choice of crypto advocate Paul Atkins to be the next chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Bitcoin has soared to unprecedented heights since Trump won the election Nov. 5. The cryptocurrency has climbed dramatically from $69,374 on Election Day and rose to more than $103,000 before falling back below $100,000 by Thursday afternoon. US judge rejects Boeing's plea deal in a conspiracy case stemming from fatal plane crashes DALLAS (AP) — A federal judge has rejected a deal that would have let Boeing to plead guilty to a felony conspiracy charge and pay a fine for misleading U.S. regulators about the 737 Max jetliner before two of the planes crashed and 346 people died. U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor in Texas said that diversity, inclusion and equity or DEI policies in the government and at Boeing could result in race being a factor in picking an official to oversee Boeing’s compliance with the agreement. His ruling on Thursday creates uncertainty around the criminal prosecution of the aerospace giant. The judge gave Boeing and the Justice Department 30 days to tell him how they plan to proceed. McKinsey subsidiary will pay $122M for scheme to bribe South African officials, US says WASHINGTON (AP) — An African subsidiary of the consulting firm McKinsey & Company Inc. will pay a criminal penalty of more than $122 million to resolve a U.S. Justice Department investigation into a yearslong scheme to bribe South African government officials. The Justice Department says the scheme involved bribes to officials with South Africa’s state-owned and state-controlled custodian of ports, rails, and pipelines, as well as its state-controlled energy company. It netted McKinsey Africa and its parent company $85 million in profits between 2012 and 2016, officials said. McKinsey said in a statement that it “welcomes the resolution of these matters and the closure of this regretful situation.” EPA hails 'revitalized' enforcement efforts as Biden administration heads to exit WASHINGTON (AP) — The Environmental Protection Agency says it concluded more than 1,850 civil cases this year, a 3.4% increase over 2023, and charged 121 criminal defendants, a 17.6% increase over the previous year. The agency also issued $1.7 billion in financial penalties, more than double last year's total. Thursday's report was the final one account of Biden-era enforcement actions before President-elect Donald Trump takes office in January. Enforcement efforts included first-ever criminal charges for a California man accused of smuggling climate-damaging air coolants into the United States. Engine maker Cummins Inc. paid more than $2 billion in fines and penalties after it was found to use illegal software to skirt diesel emissions tests. Work-life balance isn't working for women. Why? NEW YORK (AP) — About half of working women reported feeling stressed “a lot of the day,” compared to about 4 in 10 men, according to a Gallup report published Wednesday. The report suggests that competing demands of work and home comprise part of the problem: working women who are parents or guardians are more likely than men who are parents to say they have declined or delayed a promotion at work because of personal or family obligations, and mothers are more likely than fathers to “strongly agree” that they are the default responders for unexpected child care issues. But changing workplace culture and prioritizing well-being can improve the problem, according to Karen Guggenheim, creator of the World Happiness Summit. From outsider to the Oval Office, bitcoin surges as a new administration embraces crypto NEW YORK (AP) — Bitcoin burst on the scene after trust had withered in the financial system and Washington’s ability to protect people from it. Now, it’s Washington’s embrace of bitcoin that’s sending it to records. Bitcoin briefly surged above $103,000 after President-elect Donald Trump said he will nominate Paul Atkins, who's seen as friendly to crypto, to be the Securities and Exchange Commission's next chair. The crypto industry, meanwhile, did its part to bring politicians friendly to digital currencies into Washington. It's a twist from bitcoin's early days, when it was lauded as a kind of electronic cash that wouldn’t be beholden to any government or financial institution. Stock market today: Wall Street edges back from its records as bitcoin briefly pops above $100,000 NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks edged back from their records as Wall Street counted down to a big jobs report that’s coming on Friday. The S&P 500 fell 0.2% Thursday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.6%, and the Nasdaq composite sank 0.2% from its own all-time high. The crypto market had more action, and bitcoin briefly burst to a record above $103,000 before falling back toward $99,000. It's climbed dramatically since Election Day on hopes President-elect Donald Trump will be more friendly to crypto. Airline stocks were strong, while Treasury yields held relatively steady in the bond market. Key members of OPEC+ alliance are putting off production increases amid slack crude prices FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Eight members of the OPEC+ alliance of oil exporting countries have decided to put off increasing oil production as they face weaker than expected demand and competing production from non-allied countries — factors that could keep oil prices stagnant into next year. The OPEC+ members decided at an online meeting to postpone by three months production increases that had been scheduled to take effect Jan. 1. The plan had been to start gradually restoring 2.2 million barrels per day over the course of 2025. That process will now be pushed back to April 1, 2025 and production increases will gradually take place over 18 months until October 2026. Eli Lilly invests $3B to expand Wisconsin factory to help meet demand for Mounjaro, Zepbound Eli Lilly is spending another $3 billion to bulk up manufacturing as the drugmaker seeks to stoke production of some blockbuster drugs and future products. Lilly said Thursday it will expand a Kenosha County, Wisconsin, factory it bought early this year. The investment will help meet growing demand for injectable products like its diabetes and obesity drugs, Mounjaro and Zepbound. Those drugs brought in a combined $4.4 billion in sales for Lilly in this year’s third quarter. The drugmaker plans to start construction of the expansion next year.
In the nearly four years since Joe Biden was sworn in as President in 2021, groundbreaking advances in artificial intelligence (AI) became widely available that offer the potential to revolutionize employment-related decisions and processes for recruiting, hiring, promotions, and employee evaluation. As the nation prepares for a second Trump Administration, and employers increasingly interested in adopting and using AI tools, one question on employers’ minds is what can they expect with respect to federal regulation of AI? The Biden Administration took a measured but deliberate approach to regulating AI in general and with respect to employment applications in particular, primarily by issuing non-binding guidance and articulating enforcement priorities with respect to laws already on the books, such as Title VII and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The lynchpin of this approach was an October 2023 Executive Order (Executive Order) that outlined the administration’s “comprehensive strategy for responsible innovation.” As relevant to employers and developers of AI tools for employers, that strategy included developing “principles and best practices to mitigate the harms and maximize the benefits of AI for workers,” and “directing agencies to combat algorithmic discrimination.” Although it is difficult to predict precisely what the incoming Trump Administration will do in this space, there is an expectation it will unwind these efforts. The Republican Party platform promised to repeal the Executive Order, which it called “dangerous” because it “hinders AI Innovation and imposes Radical Leftwing ideas on the development of this technology.” The platform also expressed support for “AI Development rooted in Free Speech and Human Flourishing,” suggesting a more laissez-faire approach to AI regulation. With Republicans also winning control of the Senate and the House of Representatives, federal legislation regulating employer’s use of AI tools appears unlikely. If the Trump Administration takes a hands-off approach as expected, regulation of AI employment tools will likely continue (or even accelerate) at the state and local levels. Colorado, New York City, and Illinois have already passed legislation in recent years regulating the use of AI in employment decisions. The main features of these laws include disclosures about AI use (both to the public and to affected individuals) and audit requirements for automated decisionmaking tools aimed at identifying and mitigating algorithmic bias. Similar laws have been introduced in other state legislatures, and they may proliferate if it becomes clear that comprehensive federal regulations are not forthcoming and as lawmakers become more educated on AI issues.
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A path to economic growth and national unity Cultural heritage is the soul of a nation and a bridge that connects its past with its present while shaping its future. In Pakistan, this heritage is a treasure trove of ancient wonders, vibrant traditions, and unique customs. Each element of this legacy serves as a reminder of who we are and the heights we can achieve. Pakistan is blessed with a wealth of historical landmarks. The ruins of Mohenjo-Daro echo the grandeur of the Indus Valley Civilization, while the Buddhist relics in Taxila narrate timeless stories of peace and wisdom. The majestic Badshahi Mosque in Lahore stands as a testament to Mughal magnificence. These monuments are far more than just structures; they are fragments of history frozen in time. Cultural heritage, however, extends beyond architecture. It pulses through the melodies of music, the rhythm of dance, and the depth of poetry. The soulful verses of poets like Bulleh Shah and Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai have transcended centuries, resonating with audiences to this day. Traditional dances, such as the Pashtun Attan and Sindhi Jhumar, foster a sense of community, while handicrafts like Balochi embroidery and Multani pottery showcase artistic mastery. This cultural richness is a unifying force, highlighting the beauty of Pakistan’s diversity. Each province adds its unique color to the national tapestry. Punjab is known for its joyous Basant festival and Sufi shrine celebrations, Sindh for its vibrant Ajrak and Tharparkar’s folk melodies. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa offers soulful Pashto poetry and exemplifies resilience, while Balochistan boasts ancient craftsmanship and storytelling traditions. Despite its value, Pakistan’s cultural heritage faces significant threats. Urbanization has engulfed many historical sites, while climate change and pollution have taken a toll on ancient landmarks. Neglect and insufficient funding exacerbate these challenges, and many traditions are slowly fading as younger generations lose touch with their roots. Protecting cultural heritage is not just a moral obligation; it is vital for national identity, pride, and even economic growth. Heritage tourism is a thriving industry worldwide, and countries like Italy, Egypt, and Turkey have built robust economies around their cultural attractions. Pakistan has the same potential. Its UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Mohenjo Daro, Taxila, and the Makli Necropolis have universal appeal. With improved infrastructure, these sites could attract countless visitors. Essential upgrades, including better roads, accommodations, and guided tours, would greatly enhance the tourism experience. Promotion plays a crucial role in drawing global attention. Pakistan must showcase its rich heritage through social media campaigns, documentaries, and international cultural events. Modern tools like virtual reality and digital archives can make these treasures accessible to a global audience. Not only would this generate revenue, but it would also improve Pakistan’s global image. Cultural festivals offer another opportunity to foster unity and attract tourists. Events like the Lok Virsa Mela celebrate Pakistan’s diversity and provide a platform for artisans and performers. These festivals also bridge the gap between urban and rural communities. Supporting local craftsmen is equally important. These individuals preserve traditions through their artistry, and financial assistance or training can ensure their survival. Exporting traditional crafts like carpets, jewelry, and pottery can also boost the economy while sharing Pakistan’s stories with the world. Education is a key element in preserving heritage. Schools should integrate local history and culture into their curricula. Field trips to historical sites and participation in traditional activities can instill pride and a sense of responsibility in younger generations. Cultural heritage also promotes harmony, transcending ethnic and linguistic barriers. Folk music and dance are universal languages that unite people, while festivals create bonds that are stronger than differences. Tourism, in turn, fosters international goodwill. Visitors leave with lasting memories of Pakistan’s hospitality, becoming ambassadors of its charm. This soft power is invaluable for enhancing Pakistan’s standing on the world stage. Despite its immense potential, developing foreign tourism in Pakistan is a formidable challenge. Concerns about safety, inadequate infrastructure, and poorly maintained roads deter travelers. Airports often fail to meet global standards, and much of Pakistan’s beauty remains hidden from the world. Overcoming these hurdles requires decisive action, including enhanced security, modernized infrastructure, and strategic promotion. Only then can Pakistan truly claim its place as a global tourist destination. In 2022, the travel and tourism sector contributed 5.9 percent to Pakistan’s GDP and generated 4.2 million jobs, as reported by the World Bank Group and the World Travel and Tourism Council. Despite these figures, the sector’s potential remains underutilized, considering the country’s rich array of tourist destinations. Visitor spending in Pakistan reached $16 billion in 2022, with projections indicating this could grow to $30 billion by 2033, signaling significant opportunities for future expansion in the tourism industry. Preserving cultural heritage is about more than safeguarding the past. It is about honoring ancestors, inspiring future generations, and building a bridge to tomorrow. By cherishing its cultural wealth, Pakistan can achieve not only economic progress but also social harmony. Heritage is more than history; it is identity, pride, and limitless potential. Pakistan’s cultural heritage is its most valuable asset. Let us protect, celebrate, and share it with the world. The writer is Director of the Institute of Humanities and Arts, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology, Rahim Yar Khan 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() );BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Tens of thousands of Spaniards marched in downtown Barcelona on Saturday to protest the skyrocketing cost of renting an apartment in the popular tourist destination. Protesters cut off traffic on main avenues in the city center, holding up homemade signs in Spanish reading “Fewer apartments for investing and more homes for living" and “The people without homes uphold their rights.” The lack of affordable housing has become one of the leading concerns for the southern European Union country, mirroring the housing crunch across many parts of the world, including the United States . Organizers said that over 100,000 had turned out, while Barcelona’s police said they estimated some 22,000 marched. Either way, the throngs of people clogging the streets recalled the massive separatist rallies at the height of the previous decade’s Catalan independence movement. Now, social concerns led by housing have displaced political crusades. That is because the average rent for Spain has doubled in last 10 years. The price per square meter has risen from 7.2 euros ($7.5) in 2014 to 13 euros this year, according to the popular online real estate website Idealista. The growth is even more acute in cities like Barcelona and Madrid. Incomes meanwhile have failed to keep up, especially for younger people in a country with chronically high unemployment. Protestor Samuel Saintot said he is “frustrated and scared” after being told by the owners of the apartment he has rented for the past 15 years in Barcelona’s city center that he must vacate the premises. He suspects that the owners want him out so they can renovate it and boost the price. “Even looking in a 20- or 30-kilometer radius outside town, I can’t even find anything within the price range I can afford,” he told The Associated Press. “And I consider myself a very fortunate person, because I earn a decent salary. And even in my case, I may be forced to leave town.” A report by the Bank of Spain indicates that nearly 40% of Spaniards who rent dedicate an average of 40% of their income to paying rents and utilities, compared to the European Union average of 27% of renters who do so. “We are talking about a housing emergency. It means people having many difficulties both in accessing and staying in their homes,” said Ignasi Martí, professor for Esade business school and head of its Dignified Housing Observatory. The rise in rents is causing significant pain in Spain, where traditionally people seek to own their homes. Rental prices have also been driven up by short-term renters including tourists. Many migrants to Spain are also disproportionately hit by the high rents because they often do not have enough savings. Spain is near the bottom end of OECD countries with under 2% of all housing available being public housing for rent. The OECD average is 7%. Spain is far behind France, with 14%, Britain with 16%, and the Netherlands with 34%. Carme Arcarazo, spokesperson for Barcelona’s Tenants Union which helped organize the protest, said that renters should consider a “rent strike” and cease paying their monthly rents in a mass protest movement. “I think we the tenants have understood that this depends on us. That we can’t keep asking and making demands to the authorities and waiting for an answer. We must take the reins of the situation,” Arcarazo told the AP. “So, if they (the owners) won’t lower the rent, then we will force them to do it." The Barcelona protest came a month after tens of thousands rallied against high rents in Madrid. The rising discontent over housing is putting pressure on Spain’s governing Socialist party, which leads a coalition on the national level and is in charge of Catalonia’s regional government and Barcelona’s city hall. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez presided over what the government termed a “housing summit” including government officials and real estate developers last month. But the Barcelona’s Tenants Union boycotted the event, saying it was like calling a summit for curing cancer and inviting tobacco companies to participate. The leading government measure has been a rent cap mechanism that the central government has offered to regional authorities based on a price index established by the housing ministry. Rent controls can be applied to areas deemed to be “highly stressed” by high rental prices. Catalonia was the first region to apply those caps, which are in place in downtown Barcelona. Many locals blame the million of tourists who visit Barcelona, and the rest of Spain, each year for the high prices. Barcelona’s town hall has pledged to completely eliminate the city’s 10,000 so called “tourist apartments,” or dwellings with permits for short-term rents, by 2028.People engage in gaming through a variety of formats , from consoles to mobile devices, driven by factors like convenience, cost, and immersive experiences. This graphic, via Visual Capitalist's Kayla Zhu, visualizes the share of U.S. consumers that reported gaming on a specific device within the past month, using data from a Circana online survey of 5,100 active U.S. gamers conducted in May through June 2024. The categories of gaming devices are as follows: Mobile: iPhone, Android smartphone, iPad, and other smartphone or tablet devices Computer: Desktop, laptop, Steam Deck, or other portable PC devices Console: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 4 Pro, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Xbox One X, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Wii U, Nintendo Wii Other: Virtual reality (VR) headsets, plug-and-play devices, child-oriented devices Below, we show the share of U.S. consumers ages two and up that played on a qualifying device within the previous month of Circana’s survey. About 71% of U.S. consumers played some form of video game in the month prior to Circana’s survey, with mobile gaming being the largest platform with 65% of U.S. consumers gaming on a mobile device in 2024. Over half of gamers’ weekly playtime takes place on their phones, according to Circana. The main draw is convenience, as players already have their devices with them, along with the low cost and easy accessibility of mobile games. PC and console gaming are almost evenly tied, with 36% and 35% of respondents gaming on these platforms respectively. When looking these formats’ market shares , console gaming held a slight lead over PC gaming with 57% of the 2023 market share, or $53.1 billion revenue compared to PC’s $40.4 billion. The “Other” gaming category grew by 2% since 2022 due to increased adoption of virtual reality (VR) gaming. VR usage and ownership among U.S. teens is on the rise, with weekly VR use increasing from 10% to 13% and headset ownership growing from 31% to 33% over the past six months, according to a survey by Piper . Gaming preferences are also dependent on generation. Younger generations like Gen Alpha, Gen Z, and Millennials tend to play on PCs or console more often than older generations, according to Newzoo . In terms of gaming genres, older generations like Gen X and Boomers tend to gravitate towards puzzle games , usually played on mobile devices. To learn more about the video game industry, check out this graphic that visualizes console launch prices, adjusted for inflation.
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Former Temple basketball standout Hysier Miller sat for a long interview with the NCAA as it looked into concerns about unusual gambling activity, his lawyer said Friday amid reports a federal probe is now under way. “Hysier Miller fully cooperated with the NCAA’s investigation. He sat for a five-hour interview and answered every question the NCAA asked. He also produced every document the NCAA requested,” lawyer Jason Bologna said in a statement. “Hysier did these things because he wanted to play basketball this season, and he is devastated that he cannot.” Miller, a three-year starter from South Philadelphia, transferred to Virginia Tech this spring. However, the Hokies released him last month due to what the program called “circumstances prior to his enrollment at Virginia Tech.” Bologna declined to confirm that a federal investigation had been opened, as did spokespeople for both the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Philadelphia. ESPN, citing unnamed sources, reported Thursday that authorities were investigating whether Miller bet on games he played in at Temple, and whether he adjusted his performance accordingly. “Hysier Miller has overcome more adversity in his 22 years than most people face in their lifetime. He will meet and overcome whatever obstacles lay ahead," Bologna said. Miller scored eight points — about half his season average of 15.9 — in a 100-72 loss to UAB on March 7 that was later flagged for unusual betting activity. Temple said it has been aware of those allegations since they became public in March, and has been cooperative. “We have been fully responsive and cooperative with the NCAA since the moment we learned of the investigation,” Temple President John Fry said in a letter Thursday to the school community. However, Fry said Temple had not received any requests for information from state or federal law enforcement agencies. He vowed to cooperate fully if they did. “Coaches, student-athletes and staff members receive mandatory training on NCAA rules and regulations, including prohibitions on involvement in sports wagering," Fry said in the letter. The same week the Temple-UAB game raised concerns, Loyola (Maryland) said it had removed a person from its basketball program after it became aware of a gambling violation. Temple played UAB again on March 17, losing 85-69 in the finals of the American Athletic Conference Tournament. League spokesman Tom Fenstermaker also declined comment on Friday. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketballRichard Parsons, prominent Black executive who led Time Warner and Citigroup, dies at 76
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